bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ZygosityPredictor
Authors: Rheinnecker Marco , Fröhlich Martina , Rübsam Marc , Paramasivam Nagarajan , Heilig Christoph E , Fröhling Stefan , Schlenk Richard F , Hutter Barbara , Hübschmann Daniel
Published: February 2024

ZygosityPredictor provides functionality to evaluate how many copies of a gene are affected by mutations in next generation sequencing data. In cancer samples, the tool processes both somatic and germline mutations. In particular, ZygosityPredictor computes the number of affected copies for single nucleotide variants and small insertions and deletions (Indels). In addition, the tool integrates information at gene level via phasing of several variants and subsequent logic to derive how strongly a gene is affected by mutations and provides a measure of confidence. This information is of particular interest in precision oncology, e.g. when assessing whether unmutated copies of tumor-suppressor genes remain.

Availability and implementation

ZygosityPredictor was implemented as an R-package and is available via Bioconductor at https://bioconductor.org/packages/ZygosityPredictor. Detailed documentation is provided in the vignette including application to an example genome.
AGImpute: imputation of scRNA-seq data based on a hybrid GAN with dropouts identification
Authors: Zhu Xiaoshu , Meng Shuang , Li Gaoshi , Wang Jianxin , Peng Xiaoqing
Published: February 2024

Motivation

Dropout events bring challenges in analyzing single-cell RNA sequencing data as they introduce noise and distort the true distributions of gene expression profiles. Recent studies focus on estimating dropout probability and imputing dropout events by leveraging information from similar cells or genes. However, the number of dropout events differs in different cells, due to the complex factors, such as different sequencing protocols, cell types, and batch effects. The dropout event differences are not fully considered in assessing the similarities between cells and genes, which compromises the reliability of downstream analysis.

Results

This work proposes a hybrid Generative Adversarial Network with dropouts identification to impute single-cell RNA sequencing data, named AGImpute. First, the numbers of dropout events in different cells in scRNA-seq data are differentially estimated by using a dynamic threshold estimation strategy. Next, the identified dropout events are imputed by a hybrid deep learning model, combining Autoencoder with a Generative Adversarial Network. To validate the efficiency of the AGImpute, it is compared with seven state-of-the-art dropout imputation methods on two simulated datasets and seven real single-cell RNA sequencing datasets. The results show that AGImpute imputes the least number of dropout events than other methods. Moreover, AGImpute enhances the performance of downstream analysis, including clustering performance, identifying cell-specific marker genes, and inferring trajectory in the time-course dataset.

Availability and implementation

The source code can be obtained from https://github.com/xszhu-lab/AGImpute.
All-cause and cause-specific mortality in patients with Behçet disease versus the general population
Authors: Choi Se Rim , Shin Anna , Ha You-Jung , Lee Yun Jong , Lee Eun Bong , Lee Eun-So , Kang Eun Ha
Published: February 2024

Lay Summary

Behçet disease (BD) is a multisystem vasculitis (inflammation of the blood vessels) of unknown origin that commonly results in oral and genital ulcers, uveitis (eye inflammation) and skin lesions. BD is most prevalent in people from the Mediterranean to East Asia, affecting 0.4% of people in this area. Most lesions go away with time, but more severe forms that involve the cardiovascular and neurological systems can lead to death. It is estimated that people with BD have 1.4 times the risk of dying than the general population.

Using large insurance databases in Korea, we investigated the risk of death in people with BD versus age- and sex-matched controls (i.e. people without the disease) from the general population. We found that patients with BD had a 28% greater risk of death than controls over 11.9 years of follow-up, with the highest risk being in first year after diagnosis. Top causes of death in people with BD included cancer, and cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, neurological, genitourinary, respiratory and infectious disease. Further analyses of the data showed that the risk of death in BD is affected by age and sex. In particular, younger patients were more susceptible to death as a result of cardiovascular disease and women were more susceptible to dying of gastrointestinal disease.

Our study suggests that there could be an increased risk of death within the first year of being diagnosed with BD and highlights how BD is a systemic disease (i.e. the involvement of any internal organ system could lead to an increase in mortality). Finally, there were unique patterns of cause-specific deaths across subgroups of people with BD.
Cerebrospinal fluid biomarker panel for synaptic dysfunction in a broad spectrum of neurodegenerative diseases
Authors: Nilsson Johanna , Pichet Binette Alexa , Palmqvist Sebastian , Brum Wagner S , Janelidze Shorena , Ashton Nicholas J , Spotorno Nicola , Stomrud Erik , Gobom Johan , Zetterberg Henrik , Brinkmalm Ann , Blennow Kaj , Hansson Oskar
Published: February 2024

Synaptic dysfunction and degeneration is likely the key pathophysiology for the progression of cognitive decline in various dementia disorders. Synaptic status can be monitored by measuring synaptic proteins in CSF. In this study, both known and new synaptic proteins were investigated and compared as potential biomarkers of synaptic dysfunction, particularly in the context of Alzheimer's disease (AD).

Seventeen synaptic proteins were quantified in CSF using two different targeted mass spectrometry assays in the prospective Swedish BioFINDER-2 study. The study included 958 individuals, characterized as having mild cognitive impairment (MCI, n = 205), AD dementia (n = 149) and a spectrum of other neurodegenerative diseases (n = 171), in addition to cognitively unimpaired individuals (CU, n = 443). Synaptic protein levels were compared between diagnostic groups and their associations with cognitive decline and key neuroimaging measures (amyloid-β-PET, tau-PET and cortical thickness) were assessed.

Among the 17 synaptic proteins examined, 14 were specifically elevated in the AD continuum. SNAP-25, 14-3-3 zeta/delta, β-synuclein, and neurogranin exhibited the highest discriminatory accuracy in differentiating AD dementia from controls (areas under the curve = 0.81–0.93). SNAP-25 and 14-3-3 zeta/delta also had the strongest associations with tau-PET, amyloid-β-PET and cortical thickness at baseline and were associated with longitudinal changes in these imaging biomarkers [β(standard error, SE) = −0.056(0.0006) to 0.058(0.005), P < 0.0001]. SNAP-25 was the strongest predictor of progression to AD dementia in non-demented individuals (hazard ratio = 2.11). In contrast, neuronal pentraxins were decreased in all neurodegenerative diseases (except for Parkinson's disease), and NPTX2 showed the strongest associations with subsequent cognitive decline [longitudinal Mini-Mental State Examination: β(SE) = 0.57(0.1), P ≤ 0.0001; and mPACC: β(SE) = 0.095(0.024), P ≤ 0.001] across the AD continuum. Interestingly, utilizing a ratio of the proteins that displayed higher levels in AD, such as SNAP-25 or 14-3-3 zeta/delta, over NPTX2 improved the biomarkers' associations with cognitive decline and brain atrophy.

We found 14-3-3 zeta/delta and SNAP-25 to be especially promising as synaptic biomarkers of pathophysiological changes in AD. Neuronal pentraxins were identified as general indicators of neurodegeneration and associated with cognitive decline across various neurodegenerative dementias. Cognitive decline and brain atrophy were best predicted by ratios of SNAP-25/NPTX2 and 14-3-3 zeta/delta/NPTX2.
Should antituberculosis treatment be prescribed in erythema induratum? A case–control and incidence correlation study in Taiwan, 2001–2020
Authors: Chuo Hui-En , Hsiao Yu-Ching , Wu Yu-Hung
Published: February 2024

Background

Erythema induratum (EI) is a tuberculid associated with Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection. Using polymerase chain reaction (PCR), M. tuberculosis has been identified in Taiwan with a high percentage of EI. However, this pathogen is now rarely detected in Taiwan.

Objectives

To explore the association between EI, the annual incidence of tuberculosis (TB) in Taiwan and treatment outcomes over the last two decades.

Methods

Patients diagnosed with EI between 2001 and 2020 were enrolled based on histopathology, tissue culture and positive M. tuberculosis PCR tests. Other cases of panniculitis with positive M. tuberculosis PCR results were used as controls. The clinical information of participants was obtained. The results were correlated with the annual incidence of TB and compared between groups.

Results

Fifty-five biopsy specimens from patients with EI met the inclusion criteria; three (5%) had positive M. tuberculosis PCR results. One patient diagnosed with erythema nodosum in the control group had a positive M. tuberculosis PCR (n = 1/27; 4%). There was no significant relationship between M. tuberculosis and EI (odds ratio 1.5, 95% confidence interval –0.964 to 3.964). The correlation between the incidence of M. tuberculosis and the number of EI cases was not statistically significant (r = –0.185, P = 0.45). Only four patients received anti-TB treatment; they all showed clinical improvement without recurrence. One patient with M. tuberculosis PCR-positive EI was not treated with anti-TB therapy; however, the skin lesion improved after 3 months. No other patients in the EI group were diagnosed with M. tuberculosis infection over a follow-up period of 508 person-years.

Conclusions

Most cases of EI in Taiwan are nodular vasculitis and not tuberculid, owing to well-controlled TB. This condition can be alleviated without anti-TB treatment.
Chronic and Neurotropic: A Paradigm-Challenging Case of Dengue Virus Encephalitis in a Patient With Advanced HIV Infection
Authors: Marinelli Tina , Masters Jeffrey , Buckland Michael E , Lee Maggie , Rawlinson William , Kim Ki Wook , Urriola Nicolas , van Hal Sebastiaan
Published: February 2024

A 32-year-old female with advanced human immunodeficiency virus infection presented to an Australian hospital with subacute, worsening symptoms of encephalitis. Metagenomic sequencing and Dengue NS3 antigen staining of brain tissue confirmed active dengue virus (DENV) encephalitis. The most recent possible DENV exposure was months prior in West Africa, indicating chronicity.
Perceptions Toward Established and Novel Dietary Therapies for Crohn’s Disease Management Among Adult Patients: Results From a Questionnaire Survey
Authors: Jatkowska Aleksandra , White Bernadette , Jaskolski Paige , Nichols Ben , Brownson Emily , Clowe Jennifer , Seenan John Paul , Gerasimidis Konstantinos , MacDonald Jonathan
Published: February 2024

Background

Exclusive enteral nutrition (EEN) and partial enteral nutrition (PEN) remain the only established dietary therapies in Crohn’s disease (CD) management. We conducted a questionnaire survey to evaluate the perceptions of adults with CD toward established and emerging food-based dietary therapies.

Methods

A 26-question anonymous survey was mailed to 300 adults receiving biologic treatment. Two researchers independently conducted a thematic analysis of open-ended responses. Machine learning with the Random Forest–Recursive Feature Elimination algorithm identified predictors of willingness to try dietary therapies.

Results

One hundred and sixty patients (53% female) completed and returned the survey. Forty-two percent were following some form of exclusion diet, with low-spice and low-fiber diets being the most popular. Although only a quarter of patients believed that EEN/PEN could help with their CD, more than half believed that diet could help, with another 13% already using diet for CD management. While half of the patients were willing to try EEN, the majority were willing to try PEN instead (51% vs. 79%; P < .001). Forty-two percent of patients preferred food-based dietary plans prepared at home over EEN/PEN options. The most important predictors for willingness to try dietary therapies were age (25–65 years), recent symptoms, previous exposure to EEN/PEN, and current exclusion diet use. The top concerns about PEN were taste/palatability, satiety/hunger, and taste fatigue.

Conclusions

Most adults preferred to follow a food-based dietary therapy over EEN/PEN. The majority would try PEN though which allows for more flexibility to incorporate in habitual diet and may be easier to comply with than the EEN.
Sex determination based on features of the craniofacial bones in a sample of the central Chinese population using cone beam computed tomography
Authors: Zhang Wei , Wu Shuang , Li Shangxun , Wang Haisheng , Deng Mohong , Ren Liang , Liu Liang , Dong Hongmei
Published: February 2024

Accurate determination of sex from the skeletal remains of unidentified individuals is challenging in forensic practice. The bone standards for sex determination are population and generation specific. The present study investigated the potential utility of the craniofacial bones as an indicator of sex in a contemporary sample of the central Chinese population. A total of 171 adults (75 male, 96 female) of known age and sex underwent cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). A three-dimensional image from skull CBCT was reconstructed using specialized software (SimPlant Pro, version 11.04). Eleven linear measurements were selected to be measured, nine of which were sexually dimorphic. Discriminant function analysis (DFA) and logistic regression analysis (LRA) were used to develop mathematical models for sex determination. The equations of various variable combinations achieved classification rates of 83.6% in DFA and 84.8% in LRA, with cross-validation rates >80%. Results of the present study indicated that the accuracy of the craniofacial bones to determine sex could reach >80%, and bizygomatic breadth was the most sexually dimorphic variable among the craniofacial bones.

Key points
Life cycle CO2 emission assessment of an organic Rankine cycle based geothermal power plant
Authors: Zhao Yuan , Shi Leiming , Zhang Xiang , Gao Jun , Luo Guanqun , Ye Chao , Tang Yuanjun
Published: February 2024

Geothermal resources are well-recognized as a clean and low-carbon emission energy resource for power generation and heat supply. However, CO2 emissions occur during the construction, operation, and decommission stages of geothermal power plants. In this work, the life cycle CO2 emission characteristics of a geothermal power plant based on the organic Rankine cycle are systematically evaluated. The effect of the organic working medium and the recuperative cycle on CO2 emissions of the whole system are analyzed. Sensitivity analysis is conducted by varying the parameters of output power and the sources of the substituted electricity. Results reveal that a considerable amount of CO2 would be released due to the construction of geothermal wells and plants; however, the production of electricity could offset a much larger amount of CO2 emission. The net CO2 emission of the considered geothermal system during its lifespan reaches approximately −300 thousand tCO2e. In addition, the total amount of CO2 emission reduction relies heavily on the output power and the substituted electricity sources.
Novel multidrug resistance genomic islands and transposon carrying blaVEB-1 identified in mcr-positive Aeromonas strains from raw meat in China
Authors: Mao Ling-Ya , Wang Qin , Lin Heng , Wang Hong-Ning , Lei Chang-Wei
Published: February 2024

Objectives

To characterize the genetic environments of ESBL gene blaVEB-1 in mcr-positive Aeromonas strains from raw meat in China.

Methods

Whole genomes of Aeromonas strains were sequenced using the Illumina or Nanopore platforms. Genetic environments of blaVEB-1 were analysed using the BLAST program.

Results

The blaVEB-1 gene was detected in five Aeromonas strains carrying the mcr-7-like gene. WGS revealed that all blaVEB-1 genes were located on Aeromonas chromosome, and were carried by two novel different genomic islands named Aeromonas veronii genomic islands AveGI1 and AveGI2, as well as one transposon named Tn7690. AveGI1 is a new member of the Salmonella genomic island 1 family, incorporated into the 3′-end of mnmE (trmE). AveGI2 is a novel genomic island that has a size of 23 180 bp and is incorporated into the 3′-end of syd. The MDR regions of AveGI1 and AveGI2 are two different class 1 integrons containing 10 and five resistance genes, respectively. Tn7690 is a Tn1722 derivative containing In4-type integron and Tn5393, which harbours 10 resistance genes and integrates into different positions on the chromosomes of three strains with the capacity for mobility.

Conclusions

We report chromosomally located novel MDR genomic islands and transposon that carry blaVEB-1 in mcr-positive Aeromonas strains. These genetic elements may mediate the spread of blaVEB-1 in Aeromonas, and may also evolve by capturing new antimicrobial resistance genes or other mobile genetic elements.
Lymphocyte B Subtypes in Peripheral Blood: A Prognostic Biomarker for COVID-19 Patients
Authors: Felisberto Mariano , Walter Laura Otto , Cardoso Chandra Chiappin , Santos-Pirath Íris Mattos , Costa Heloisa Zorzi , Gartner Rafaela , Werle Isabel , Mohr Eduarda Talita Bramorski , Salvan da Rosa Julia , Lubschinski Tainá Larissa , Kretzer Iara Fabricia , Masukawa Ivete Ioshiko , de Almeida Vanny Patrícia , Luiz Magali Chaves , Rabello de Moraes Ana Carolina , Santos-Silva Maria Claudia , Dalmarco Eduardo Monguilhott
Published: February 2024

Background

In view of the scientific gap in knowledge of the involvement of the B-cell compartment and clinical prognostic in SARS-CoV-2 infection, this work aims to evaluate the B-cell subsets and the presence of specific IgM and IgG, as well as neutralizing antibodies against SARS-CoV-2, in unvaccinated patients diagnosed with COVID-19.

Methods

This study included 133 patients with COVID-19. Cellular components were assessed by flow cytometry, and immunoglobulin levels and reactivity were measured by indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.

Results

Our results showed no changes in less differentiated B cells. However, non-switched memory B cells (NS-MBCs) and class-switched memory B cells (CS-MBCs) were reduced in the patients with moderate disease. Also, plasmablasts and double-negative (DN) or “atypical” memory B cells were increased in groups of patients with moderate to critical conditions. In addition, the production of IgM, IgG, and neutralizing antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 demonstrated a positive correlation between the positivity of antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 and disease severity. Besides being related to the development of a more severe course of the disease, the increase in DN B-cell count also contributed to a poorer disease outcome in patients with a higher percentage of these cells. On the other hand, we observed an increase in the absolute number of CS-MBCs in patients with greater chances of survival.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates that the B-cell compartment may contribute to the development of clinical symptoms of COVID-19, with changes in B-cell subset counts linked to disease course and patient prognosis.
(036) Understanding Prostate Cancer Disparities in Transgender Women: A Scoping Review
Authors: Irani S , Zebib L
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Prostate cancer is a significant driver of morbidity and mortality in the United States, with growing awareness of the unique challenges of navigating the diagnosis in transgender/non-binary patients. Current evidence shows that although prostate cancer in transgender women is a relatively rare occurrence, it often involves a significant disease burden. As in many diagnoses, gender minorities may face significant barriers in accessing urological care including fear of stigmatization of gender identity by medical personnel and institutions. Although urologists will need to provide unique counseling to this marginalized group, there remains little understanding of the experience of prostate cancer within the transgender/non-binary community.

Objective

To provide an overview of the current literature on disparities transgender individuals face in accessing care for prostate cancer, to identify gaps in the existing literature, and to provide a framework for urologists to best address gender minorities.

Methods

A scoping review was undertaken according to the PRISMA Extension for Scoping Reviews Checklist. Searches were conducted in PubMed, Scopus, LGBTQ+ Source, and EMBASE. Search terms included “prostate cancer,” “prostate specific antigen,” “transgender persons,” “sexual minorities,” “non-binary individuals,” and “transgender women,”. Articles were included if they discussed the experience of prostate cancer in transgender patients and information sharing, screening, and treatment of prostate cancer in transgender women. Articles were excluded if they did not specifically pertain to prostate cancer or included all LGBTQ+ identities.

Results

A total of 871 titles and abstracts were screened by two independent reviewers. 128 full-text studies were reviewed, with 42 eligible for inclusion. The included studies encompassed several themes, including descriptions of the epidemiology of prostate cancer in transgender women, current recommendations for screening and treatment, and how physicians can offer appropriate and compassionate care to transgender women.

Conclusions

The current literature on the barriers transgender women face in obtaining prostate cancer screening is characterized. Given the use of hormone therapy, transgender women are at significantly lower risk of prostate cancer when compared to cis-gender men. However, there are many documented cases of prostate cancer in transgender women. Although there are no current screening recommendations, the literature supports physicians engaging in shared decision making with their patients to agree on acceptable prostate cancer screening. Further studies should be aimed at characterizing transgender women’s experiences with and desires for prostate cancer.

Disclosure

No.
(062) The Physiological Health of the Penile Fibro-Vascular Assembly Requires the Integrity of Ten Fibro-ligaments in the Human Penis
Authors: Chueh J , Chueh J , Tsai M
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Although the human penis has existed on earth for 3000 centuries and extensive studies have been conducted for many recent centuries, there is still room for improvement, particularly in the fibro-ligaments' role in maintaining physiological sexual health. Thus far, there needs to be more interpretation concerning these ligaments.

Objective

We aimed to explore the penile fibrous ligaments thoroughly to fill this research gap.

Methods

We excluded cadaveric penises that had both sides of the corpora cavernosa (CC) and corpus spongiosum (CS) damaged. However, penises with one undamaged side of the CC, including the Colles' fascia and the corpus spongiosum, were included. A total of 15 out of 46 penises were meticulously examined. Dissection findings were supplemented with 101 cadaveric photos and data from 263 penile vascular surgeries, 11 CT imaging scans, 8 MRI imaging scans, eight hypospadias surgeries, and eight penile elongation surgeries performed elsewhere internationally.

Results

Bilaterally, the penile CC is primarily anchored to the pelvis wall through the unilateral cavernosal ligament bilaterally (CL=2), while the CS is connected to the urinary sphincter. The suspensory, fundiform, and arcuate pubic ligament (two anatomically and one functionally) assist in stabilizing and holding the penile shaft to the pelvic wall. Distally, a distal ligament (DL=1) and spongiosal ligament (SL=1) extend the CC and CS to the glans penis and frenulum, ensuring urethra patency when required. The CC is encircled by a bi-layered tunica consisting of a 360° inner circular tunica and a 300° outer longitudinal coat. The ischiocavernosus muscle wraps around the penile crus and envelops the CL connecting to the ischial tuberosity. The CS is partially secured by the bulbospongiosus muscle proximally and receives the SL distally. The entire penis interconnects with the skeletal muscle of the urogenital diaphragm eventually.

Conclusions

The physiologically sexual health of the human penis's hydraulic system relies on the integrity of ten anatomically and six functionally fibro-muscular ligaments.

Disclosure

No.
(079) Stripping vs Ligation of Vas Deferens in Microscopic Denervation of Spermatic Cord in Men with Chronic Orchialgia: A Multicenter Study
Authors: El-Achkar A , Hammad M , Barham D , Hsieh M , Mills J , Ziegelmann M , Smith R , Bernie H , Raheem O , Fendereski K , Hotaling J , Yafi F
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Microdenervation of the spermatic cord (MSCD) is an effective treatment modality for men with intractable scrotal content pain. For patients not interested in preserving fertility, some centers advocate ligation of the vas during denervation while others perfer stripping of the Vas deferens to preserve the vasal artery, hence preserving vasculature to testis and possibly decreasing post operative congestion pain.

Objective

This multicenter study analyzes outcomes of patients that underwent MSCD by either stripping or ligating the vas deferens

Methods

A retrospective chart review of 85 patients who underwent MSCD from 2020-2023 was performed. Patients’ demographics including history of prior surgical procedures was recorded. Response to surgery was evaluated as either complete resolution of pain, partial resolution of pain or no improvement in pain.

Results

85 patients underwent MSCD with a median (IQR) age of 36 (25.5-46.5) years and median duration of pain of 16 months. 37 patients underwent stripping of vas while 48 underwent ligation of vas during MSCD. Median follow up was 12 months. 21(43.5%) patients had prior inguinal scrotal surgery in ligation group compared to 5 (13.5%) in the stripping group p=0.003. The etiology of pain was similar between the groups. The response to MSCD between the 2 groups was similar (p=0.968), with similar post op complications (Table 1).

Conclusions

In men with intractable chronic scrotal content with no interest in preserving fertility, ligation or stripping of the vas deferens yields similar outcomes with regards to pain resolution. Both techniques are safe with no reports of any testicular atrophy.

Disclosure

No.
(086) Retrospective Concomitant Nonrandomized Comparison of Testosterone Replacement Therapy versus No Treatment for Erectile Function Post Radical Prostatectomy
Authors: Hammad MAM , Gevorkyan R , Tran J , Fung C , Barham DW , Ahlering T , Yafi FA
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Recent studies have shown that testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) can be safely applied in men with low-risk prostate cancer.

Objective

To assess TRT versus no TRT 2-year potency outcomes in hypogonadal men aged ≥ 60.

Methods

Retrospective concomitant nonrandomized comparison of 70 hypogonadal men, aged 60 or older, were stratified by TRT post-RP. Baseline demographics, total testosterone (TT) calculated free testosterone (cFT), and comorbidities prior to RP were measured from October 2016 – October 2020. Sexual function was assessed via the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5) pre-and post-surgery. Potency (evaluated at 3-, 9-, 15-, and 24-months post-RP) was defined as erections sufficient for penetration and satisfying, and/or erection fullness >75%, and/or a score of 5 on Q1 (IIEF-5; confidence). T-tests, chi-square, and regression analyses were performed.

Results

Potency at 2 years was 63.6% (TRT) versus 35.1% (No TRT; p=0.017). Regression analysis showed that TRT was a predictor of potency outcomes 2 years post-RP (OR: 3.33; 95% CI: 1.16-10.3; p=0.029) after adjusting for age and Gleason Grade Group. There were no statistically significant differences in baseline factors between the TRT-receiving and no-TRT groups. BCR rates between the two groups were 12.1% (TRT) versus 27.0% (no TRT; p=0.12) with a mean follow-up time of 40.2 ± 13.6 months. Kaplan Meier analysis demonstrated a trend toward a significant difference in time to BCR (p=0.078).

Conclusions

In hypogonadal men aged ≥ 60, TRT significantly improved potency outcomes 2-years post-RP. The risk of BCR overall in men receiving TRT was lower but not statistically significant.

Disclosure

Any of the authors act as a consultant, employee or shareholder of an industry for: Faysal A Yafi, MD – Advisory board and speaker for Coloplast; consultant for Cynosure; advisory board and speaker for Halozyme; intellectual property with Masimo; advisory board for Promescent; consultant for Sprout; advisory board for Xialla.
(103) Predictors of Sexual Arousal in Women: A Secondary Data Analysis
Authors: Hitt M , Teater A
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Low sexual desire and lack of arousal are highly prevalent sexual problems in women. Despite high prevalence, sexual arousal difficulties have not been a priority focus of assessment and treatment of women at midlife. Relationship satisfaction and importance of sex are key to healthy sexual function at midlife. Psychosocial variables, including relationship satisfaction, communication with one’s partner, and importance of sex are associated with overall sexual satisfaction. Rosemary Basson’s intimacy-based model of female sexual response incorporates the need for intimacy and emotional satisfaction and acknowledges the impact of sexual arousal on responsive sexual desire and physical satisfaction. Better understanding of the impacts of emotional satisfaction in female sexual response and function is needed to direct improvements in assessment and treatment of sexual problems in midlife women.

Objective

To explore the associations of emotional satisfaction, sexual desire, importance of sex and ability to climax with frequency of arousal during sexual activity in menopausal women.

Methods

A secondary data analysis of the Study of Women’s Health Across the Nation (SWAN), USA, 2006-2008 (Visit 10) dataset was completed utilizing multiple linear regression to assess variables associated with frequency of sexual arousal in menopausal women. A total of 2,245 women between the ages of 51-63 years were included. The mean age was 56 years.

Results

Multiple linear regression results demonstrated that 19% of the variability in frequency of arousal in our study population was explained by emotional satisfaction (F (1,1163) = 271.039, p<.001). Further analyses revealed that 56% of the variability in frequency of arousal was explained by emotional satisfaction, sexual desire, importance of sex, and ability to climax (F (6,1014) = 215.461, p<.001).

Conclusions

Interventions designed to enhance emotional satisfaction with a partner may positively impact female sexual arousal. Emotional satisfaction with a partner is strongly associated with frequency of sexual arousal in menopausal women. Additionally, sexual desire, importance of sex and ability to climax are also strongly associated with frequency of sexual arousal. These findings are clinically relevant and reinforce the need for biopsychosocial assessment of sexuality and sexual function, as well as thorough assessment of dyadic and interpersonal factors. Further research is needed to better understand the impacts and interplay of psychosocial variables on female sexual response and function.

Disclosure

No.
(110) Socioeconomic Factors Impacting Density of Certified Sex Therapists in the United States
Authors: Leelani N , Shumaker A , Lanpher NW , Bole R , Asif A , Khooblall P , Parekh N , Lundy SD , Bajic P
Published: February 2024

Introduction

An exploratory study mapping sex therapists based on the top ten Google results in each state concluded that most sex therapists were located in larger metropolitan areas, and importantly, they found that only 18.2% of clinicians offering sex therapy services were certified by a national organization such as AASECT.

Objective

To map where certified sex therapists practice and what variables influence where they practice in the United States.

Methods

The American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists online directory was queried for certified sex therapists in each state. Univariable and multiple linear regression analyses were utilized to assess the relationship between the density of certified sex therapists in each state with various training and socioeconomic factors.

Results

Across all 50 states and the District of Columbia the median density of sex therapists per 500,000 people was 1.28 (IQR 0.82, 1.83). On univariable linear regression, median household income (p < .01, R2 = .20), percent of state population with a bachelor’s degree or higher (p < .01, R2 = .57), and percent of state population living in an urban setting (p < .01, R2 = .18) were significantly correlated with the density of certified sex therapists in each state. On multiple linear regression, percent of state population with a bachelor’s degree or higher (p < .01) and percent of population not in poverty (p < .01) remained significantly correlated with the density of certified sex therapists in each state.

Conclusions

Certified sex therapists are more likely to practice in urban settings with populations that have a higher median income and are more educated.

Disclosure

Any of the authors act as a consultant, employee or shareholder of an industry for: Boston Scientific, Coloplast.
(137) Sealed Vasectomy Procedure Prior Studies and Now Good Laboratory Practices FDA Study: Human, Porcine, Canine and Rabbit Subjects
Authors: Henry G , Hakky T , Pannell W , Nighan W , Jones L
Published: February 2024

Introduction

The Sealed Vasectomy Procedure (SVP) is a new bipolar radiofrequency sealing tool for transdermal vasectomy in hopes of making the procedure a faster, simpler, and safer office procedure. Testing has been successful in rabbits with excellent wound healing, complete vas occlusion on histology, and no sperm in post procedural semen analysis. Further studies in larger animals were then done in canine, porcine and human vas deferens that showed good sealing of the vas deferens. FDA-approval are needed before its application in humans. The next step in FDA approval process is a FDA prescribed Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) animal study.

Objective

Evaluate the effectiveness of the SVP in sealing the vas deferens in rabbit, canine, porcine and in humans. Now presenting the FDA prescribed GLP study.

Methods

Rabbit studies have been previously described including AUA22 best video award. We preformed microscopic evaluation of the vas deferens tissues from canines treated with the SVP at either 40 or 60 watts, euthanized at 14 days post-treatment under the conditions of this study. Human vas deferens specimens after removal from the patient were then immediately treated with SVP tool on benchtop. Porcine vas deferens samples were procured and underwent benchtop testing. The GLP study was done at Charles River in Kalamazoo, Michigan. The GLP study was on 6 canines: 3 with the outside the skin method and 3 canines with the transdermal method. All were terminal after a period of healing of up to 28 days.

Results

9 canine, 6 human, and 20 porcine vas deferens were included in SVP testing. Human, porcine, and canine specimens demonstrated tissue coagulation and fibrosis in the treated vasa deferentia by Pathology. (See Figure 1 Human and 2 Canine) For the FDA GLP prescribed study, all 6 dogs survived and were euthanized at 28 days post-treatment. Pathology for the GLP study was done by Charles River.

Conclusions

SVP is a potentially exciting novel vasectomy procedure that appears to provide good sealing of the vas deferens in the rabbit & canine animal model and on benchtop for the human & porcine vas deferens. The FDA GLP study is done and awaits FDA submission. FDA-approval is still needed before use in humans.

Disclosure

Yes, this is sponsored by industry/sponsor: Signati.

Clarification: Industry initiated, executed and funded study.

Any of the authors act as a consultant, employee or shareholder of an industry for: Signati.
(203) Awareness of Monkeypox Virus Among International Urology Faculty and Trainees is Low: Implications for Early Recognition and Diagnosis
Authors: Hammad M , Miller J , Amini E , Fattash A , Yazar R , Nguyen J , Azad B , Yafi F
Published: February 2024

Introduction

The recent international outbreak of Monkeypox virus (Mpox), has raised concerns regarding the recognition and management of this disease among healthcare professionals. The genitourinary presentation of Mpox as variable cutaneous lesions poses a unique challenge for Urologists in its prevention, diagnosis, and management.

Objective

To assess the understanding and recognition of Mpox among international urologists and urology trainees.

Methods

A survey relating to the presentation, transmission, and management of Mpox was distributed to urologists and urology trainees during the joint 23rd Sexual Medicine Society of North America (SMSNA)/ 23rd International Society for Sexual Medicine (ISSM) conference.

Results

Out of 960 attendees, 97 (10.1%) responded to the survey. The rate of respondents who correctly identified a Mpox lesion from a series of cutaneous lesions was 25.8%. A similarly low number of respondents were able to identify the likelihood of having anogenital lesions and oral bleeding on presentation with Mpox at 15.5% and 19.6% respectively. A higher number of respondents accurately noted that diagnosis of Mpox may be made with PCR (79.4%) and that men with multiple male sexual partners are at the highest risk of transmission (72.2%) (Table 1).

Conclusions

When surveyed regarding the presentation, transmission, and management of Mpox, urologists and urology trainees were generally unable to accurately identify Mpox from a series of cutaneous lesions or the rate at which Mpox may present with anogenital lesions. The limited recognition of its presentation, appropriate diagnostic methods, and distinguishing features from sexually transmitted lesions raises concerns about potential missed diagnoses and delayed treatment. Continued education within the urology community may be necessary for the appropriate detection of and intervention against Mpox.

Disclosure

Any of the authors act as a consultant, employee or shareholder of an industry for: Coloplast, Antares Pharma, Clarus Therapeutics.
Multiomics analyses reveal the central role of the nucleolus and its machinery during heat stress acclimation in Pinus radiata
Authors: Escandón Mónica , Valledor Luis , Lamelas Laura , Álvarez Jóse M , Cañal María Jesús , Meijón Mónica
Published: February 2024

Global warming is causing rapid changes in mean annual temperature and more severe drought periods. These are major contributors of forest dieback, which is becoming more frequent and widespread. In this work, we investigated how the transcriptome of Pinus radiata changed during initial heat stress response and acclimation. To this end, we generated a high-density dataset employing Illumina technology. This approach allowed us to reconstruct a needle transcriptome, defining 12 164 and 13 590 transcripts as down- and up-regulated, respectively, during a time course stress acclimation experiment. Additionally, the combination of transcriptome data with other available omics layers allowed us to determine the complex inter-related processes involved in the heat stress response from the molecular to the physiological level. Nucleolus and nucleoid activities seem to be a central core in the acclimating process, producing specific RNA isoforms and other essential elements for anterograde–retrograde stress signaling such as NAC proteins (Pra_vml_051671_1 and Pra_vml_055001_5) or helicase RVB. These mechanisms are connected by elements already known in heat stress response (redox, heat-shock proteins, or abscisic acid-related) and with others whose involvement is not so well defined such as shikimate-related, brassinosteriods, or proline proteases together with their potential regulatory elements. This work provides a first in-depth overview about molecular mechanisms underlying the heat stress response and acclimation in P. radiata.
The cysteine-rich receptor-like kinase CRK10 targeted by Coniella diplodiella effector CdE1 contributes to white rot resistance in grapevine
Authors: Liu Ruitao , Tan Xibei , Wang Yiming , Lin Feng , Li Peng , Rahman Faiz Ur , Sun Lei , Jiang Jianfu , Fan Xiucai , Liu Chonghuai , Zhang Ying
Published: February 2024

Grape white rot is a devastating fungal disease caused by Coniella diplodiella. The pathogen delivers effectors into the host cell that target crucial immune components to facilitate its infection. Here, we examined a secreted effector of C. diplodiella, known as CdE1, which has been found to inhibit Bax-triggered cell death in Nicotiana benthamiana plants. The expression of CdE1 was induced at 12–48 h after inoculation with C. diplodiella, and the transient overexpression of CdE1 led to increased susceptibility of grapevine to the fungus. Subsequent experiments revealed an interaction between CdE1 and Vitis davidii cysteine-rich receptor-like kinase 10 (VdCRK10) and suppression of VdCRK10-mediated immunity against C. diplodiella, partially by decreasing the accumulation of VdCRK10 protein. Furthermore, our investigation revealed that CRK10 expression was significantly higher and was up-regulated in the resistant wild grapevine V. davidii during C. diplodiella infection. The activity of the VdCRK10 promoter is induced by C. diplodiella and is higher than that of Vitis vitifera VvCRK10, indicating the involvement of transcriptional regulation in CRK10 gene expression. Taken together, our results highlight the potential of VdCRK10 as a resistant gene for enhancing white rot resistance in grapevine.
H ii regions and diffuse ionized gas in the AMUSING++ Compilation – I. Catalogue presentation
Authors: Lugo-Aranda A Z , Sánchez S F , Barrera-Ballesteros J K , López-Cobá C , Espinosa-Ponce C , Galbany L , Anderson Joseph P
Published: February 2024

We present a catalogue of ∼52 000 extragalactic H ii regions and their spectroscopic properties obtained using Integral Field Spectroscopy (IFS) from MUSE observations. The sample analysed in this study contains 678 galaxies within the nearby Universe (0.004 <z < 0.06) covering different morphological types and a wide range of stellar masses (6 < log(M*/M⊙) < 13). Each galaxy was analysed using the pipe3d and pyhiiextractor codes to obtain information of the ionized gas and underlying stellar populations. Specifically, the fluxes, equivalent widths, velocities and velocity dispersions of 30 emission lines covering the wavelength range between λ4750 to λ9300 Å, were extracted and were used to estimate luminosity weighted ages and metallicities of the underlying stellar populations from each H ii region (of the original sample we detect H ii regions in 539 galaxies). In addition, we introduce and apply a novel method and independent of any intrinsic physical property to estimate and decontaminate the contribution of the diffuse ionized gas. Using the final catalogue, we explore the dependence of properties of the H ii regions on different local and global galaxy parameters: (i) Hubble type, (ii) stellar mass, (iii) galactocentric distance, and (iv) the age and metallicity of the underlying/neighbour stellar populations. We confirm known relations between properties of the H ii regions and the underlying stellar populations (in particular, with the age) uncovered using data of lower spatial and spectral resolution. Furthermore, we describe the existence of two main families of diffuse ionized gas different for galaxies host or not of H ii regions.
A uniform analysis of debris discs with the Gemini Planet Imager II: constraints on dust density distribution using empirically informed scattering phase functions
Authors: Hom Justin , Patience J , Chen C H , Duchêne G , Mazoyer J , Millar-Blanchaer M A , Esposito T M , Kalas P , Crotts K A , Gonzales E C , Kolokolova L , Lewis B L , Matthews B C , Rice M , Weinberger A J , Wilner D J , Wolff S G , Bruzzone S , Choquet E , Debes J , De Rosa R J , Donaldson J , Draper Z , Fitzgerald M P , Hines D C , Hinkley S , Hughes A M , López R A , Marchis F , Metchev S , Moro-Martin A , Nesvold E , Nielsen E L , Oppenheimer R , Padgett D , Perrin M D , Pueyo L , Rantakyrö F , Ren B B , Schneider G , Soummer R , Song I , Stark C C
Published: February 2024

Spatially resolved images of debris discs are necessary to determine disc morphological properties and the scattering phase function (SPF) thatantifies the brightness of scattered light as a function of phase angle. Current high-contrast imaging instruments have successfully resolved several dozens of debris discs around other stars, but few studies have investigated trends in the scattered-light, resolved population of debris discs in a uniform and consistent manner. We have combined Karhunen-Loeve Image Projection (KLIP) with radiative-transfer disc forward modelling in order to obtain the highest-quality image reductions and constrain disc morphological properties of eight debris discs imaged by the Gemini Planet Imager at H-band with a consistent and uniformly applied approach. In describing the scattering properties of our models, we assume a common SPF informed from solar system dust scattering measurements and apply it to all systems. We identify a diverse range of dust density properties among the sample, including critical radius, radial width, and vertical width. We also identify radially narrow and vertically extended discs that may have resulted from substellar companion perturbations, along with a tentative positive trend in disc eccentricity with relative disc width. We also find that using a common SPF can achieve reasonable model fits for discs that are axisymmetric and asymmetric when fitting models to each side of the disc independently, suggesting that scattering behaviour from debris discs may be similar to Solar system dust.
Weak gravitational lensing measurements of Abell 2744 using JWST and shear measurement algorithm pyRRG-JWST
Authors: Harvey David R , Massey Richard
Published: February 2024

We update the publicly available weak lensing shear measurement algorithm pyRRG for the JWST, and apply it to UNCOVER DR1 imaging of galaxy cluster Abell 2744. At short wavelengths (${\lt}2.5\, \mu$m), shear measurements are consistent between independent observations through different JWST bandpasses, and calibrated within 1.5 per cent of those from the Hubble Space Telescope. At longer wavelengths, shear is underestimated by ∼5 per cent, probably due to coarser pixellization. We model the spatially varying point spread function using WebbPSF, whose moments are within 0.05 of real stars near the centre of the mosaic, where there are sufficient stars to also generate an empirical model. We measure shear from up to 162 galaxies arcmin−2 to derive a map of dark plus baryonic mass with 12 arcsec (55 kpc) spatial resolution. All code, catalogues, and maps are available from https://github.com/davidharvey1986/pyRRG.