bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Opportunities and challenges in the implementation of the Community Environment Conservation Fund: Implications for conservation of endangered tree species
Authors: Alex Moruleng , John Ilukor , Bernard Bashaasha
Published: October 2024

The shea tree (Vitellaria paradoxa), one of the indigenous tree species in sub‐Saharan Africa, is facing extinction because of its hardwood, which provides the best fuel wood, and its charcoal is the best amongst all tree species in Uganda. To conserve these trees in Northern Uganda, the Community Environment Conservation Fund was implemented to help communities harness its benefits, such as carbon sequestration, microenvironment regulation and income generation through the sale of shea nuts and shea butter. As a result, there was a need to understand the opportunities and challenges in the implementation of the Community Environment Conservation Fund. Qualitative methods like the key informant interviews and focus group discussions were used and a participatory process mapping tool called the Process Net‐Map was applied to identify the actors involved and assess their level of influence in the implementation process, eliciting the opportunities and challenges faced. The research findings showed multiple opportunities in the conservation efforts, including enhanced adoption of community‐conservation by‐laws, positive mindset change towards shea tree and environmental conservation, improved credit access, diversification of income‐generating alternatives and asset creation. However, some challenges existed during the implementation phase, including moral hazard, strategic defaulting, free riding and limited financial resources. Each of these challenges significantly impacted the effectiveness and sustainability of the fund, enlightening the need for adaptive strategies. Some strategies identified were enhancing training, especially regarding fund management and enterprise selection; increasing the startup funds to at least UGX 3,000,000 ($790) per group; incorporating the declining balance approach; and lengthening the gestation period to at least 6 months. By addressing these challenges, more resilient and sustainable conservation efforts can be made, safeguarding the invaluable shea trees for future generations.
Beyond the mix: Advancements in simultaneous detection and quantification of human, dog, and cat DNA
Authors: Bae Hyeon‐Jin , Jeong Kyu‐Sik , Kim Jung‐Eun , Hwang Eun‐Mi , Yoo Seong Yeon
Published: October 2024

Animal‐related crimes have increased with an increase in the number of pets worldwide, underscoring the importance of animal‐related biological evidence at crime scenes. Evidence obtained in cases involving dogs and cats often includes a mixture of human and animal DNA. In this study, we developed a method using droplet digital polymerase chain reaction (ddPCR) to simultaneously identify and quantitatively detect human, dog, and cat DNA in mixed samples. HLA‐DRA was chosen as a human‐specific marker, OR6D7 as a dog‐specific marker, and FLAI‐K as a cat‐specific marker. The species specificity of each target was confirmed using 14 control DNA samples from 11 mammals and 3 birds. Sensitivity tests determined the limit of detection to be 0.0008 ng/μL for human DNA and 0.00061 ng/μL for dog and cat DNA. In the mixture test, each DNA sample was independently and accurately detected in samples containing trace amounts of all three types of DNA. This study demonstrated the effectiveness of applying ddPCR to forensic case samples from dog‐ and cat‐related incidents. We have presented a reliable method for the accurate identification and quantification of human, dog, and cat DNA simultaneously, offering possibilities for advancements in forensic DNA analysis and related fields.
Imagining alternative climate futures in higher education
Authors: Magrane Eric
Published: October 2024

Across the globe, interdisciplinary and creative approaches to climate change education are crucial at all levels, particularly in higher education. In this article, I draw from insights working with a class at New Mexico State University in the United States. The aim was to examine approaches to understanding, communicating, and representing climate change. Each student was asked to compose a narrative in which they imagined the year 2100 as a time when we have adequately mitigated and/or adapted to the climate crisis. The assignment set the tone for collective action and foregrounded the importance of story and imagination in building just and sustainable futures. The class complemented a public climate change speaker series and, as a second assignment, students suggested which speakers to invite to shape the series in the future. The two assignments opened new spaces to empower, learn with and from, and build connections between university students and academic staff to shape climate discourse and action in communities. Reflecting on what was learned, sharing an example of a climate futures assignment, and presenting views on a collaborative approach to climate change education all add, I hope, to the literature on imagining futures, empowerment, and authentic learning in climate change education.
Acceptable daily intake of aspartame aggravates enteritis pathology and systemic inflammation in colitis mouse model
Authors: Zhong Mengdan , Li Lifang , Liu Wenhui , Wen Wenzhi , Ma Luheng , Jin Xiaobao , Li Guoying , Yang Junhua
Published: October 2024

In this study, a dextran sodium sulfate‐induced ulcerative colitis model in C57BL/6 mice was used to explore the effect of acceptable daily intake (ADI) of aspartame on inflammation in colonic tissues. The effects of aspartame on the inflammatory state of the colon in mice were comprehensively evaluated by comparing the body weight, colon length/colon length index, splenic index, disease activity index (DAI) score, histological activity index (HAI) score, the expression levels of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α, interleukin (IL)‐1β, IL‐6, claudin‐3, and occludin, the infiltration characteristics of macrophage and neutrophil and the composition of the gut microbiota in the control group, aspartame group, ulcerative colitis model group, and aspartame + ulcerative colitis group. We demonstrated that, in a mouse model of dextran sulfate‐induced ulcerative colitis, ADI of aspartame caused a significant decrease in body weight, colon length/colon length index, DAI scores, and expression levels of the proteins claudin‐3 and occludin. Moreover, ADI of aspartame caused an increase in the splenic index, HAI scores, the levels of proinflammatory factors TNF‐α, IL‐1β, and IL‐6 both in intestinal tissue and serum and infiltration of macrophages and neutrophils in colon tissues. These results showed that ADI of aspartame promoted intestinal pathology and systemic inflammation in a mouse model of colitis.
A “WEST” Theory in the East: Decoupling and synergistic evolution of water utilization, economy, and society in China
Authors: Sun Mingsong , Song Yutong , Yan Shiling , Wang Tongzhen , Zhou Zhihao , Li Mingguang
Published: October 2024

To attain a thorough examination of the dynamic interaction mechanism between China's utilization of water resources and its economic and social development, this paper innovatively introduces a Western theoretical framework within an Eastern context. The aim is to quantify the process of decoupling and synergistic evolution from 2006 to 2020. Decoupling signifies achieving economic growth while reducing resource use or mitigating environmental impacts, whereas synergy denotes enhancing economic efficiency while contributing to environmental protection. This paper employs the Tapio elastic coefficient method to construct a decoupling model. A collaborative model, based on the entropy weight Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) and weighted average methods, also assesses the organization and coordination of subsystems within the complex water‐economic‐social system. The findings reveal a strong decoupling between China's water resource management and economic and social systems, as indicated by a consistently negative decoupling index. Similarly, the economic system exhibits a degree of inefficiency influenced by factors like economic cyclicality and resource allocation. In contrast, the social system experienced a decline, particularly during the pandemic (2019–2020), leading to a social instability. This study provides valuable policy formulation and sustainable development insights, contributing to a comprehensive understanding of the intricate dynamics between water utilization, economy, and society.
FDG PET/CT in large vessel vasculitis
Authors: Singh Karan Bir , Nguyen Katherine , Sammel Anthony , Wegner Eva A , Ho Shon Ivan
Published: October 2024

Large vessel vasculitides (LVV) such as giant cell arteritis, Takayasu arteritis and aortitis/periaortitis are characterised by immune‐mediated inflammation of medium to large arteries. Clinical disease manifestations can be non‐specific and diagnostic imaging plays an important role in the diagnostic pathway. In recent years, FDG PET/CT has proven to be a powerful metabolic tool that can provide a wholed body, non‐invasive assessment of vascular inflammation. This review outlines the clinical features of large vessel vasculitis and the closely related entity of polymyalgia rheumatica, summarises the evidence for FDG PET/CT in the assessment of these conditions, and provides guidance for patient preparation, image acquisition and interpretation.
Comparing the efficacy of different embolisation materials in improving pain and fertility outcomes in patients with varicoceles: A systematic review
Authors: Kasunic Daniel , Crebert Mitchell , Treacy Patrick‐Julien , Steffens Daniel , Karunaratne Sascha , Waugh Richard , Thanigasalam Ruban , Leslie Scott
Published: October 2024

Radiological embolisation has emerged as a safe and effective alternative to surgery for varicocele treatment. While systematic reviews have compared embolisation to surgery, attempts to compare different embolisation materials have been limited. The objective was to conduct a systematic review assessing the potential benefits of combining coils with sclerosants for varicocele embolisation on fertility, pain, recurrence and complication rates in male patients, as compared to using coils alone. The search was conducted through MEDLINE, Embase and CENTRAL databases from inception to May 2023. Comparative studies that reported male varicocele patients treated with embolisation using either coils or coils with sclerosants were included, with primary outcomes of either fertility, pain or recurrence. Pearling of reference lists was also performed to identify additional articles. Risk of bias for each study was assessed using the Downs and Black Checklist. Overall, 21 studies (2236 patients) were included. Patients were treated with coils in 14 studies, and nine studies used coils with sclerosants. An improvement in sperm concentration and motility was identified post‐embolisation in most studies that reported these outcomes. Pregnancy and recurrence rates were comparable between the two materials. All four studies that reported pain outcomes following embolisation noted improvement in pain scores. Only one comparative study was included, for recurrence. This review has identified improvements in pain and fertility following varicocele embolisation. However, it could not be determined which material was superior due to the lack of high‐quality comparative studies in the literature.
Surgical treatment of urachal adenocarcinoma with lung metastasis: A case report and literature review
Authors: Tian Yan , Ren Chao , Shi Lin , Guo Zhanlin
Published: October 2024

Arising from the urachal epithelial lining, the urachal carcinoma is a rare tumor, which accounts for 0.35%–0.7% of all bladder cancers. Urachal carcinoma has a higher predilection in men with median age around 50–60 years old. The most common clinical symptom is intermittent painless gross hematuria, and less‐reported presentations include suprapubic mass, dysuria, lower abdominal pain, and frequent urination. The pathological study reveals that most cases (90%) are categorized as an intestinal adenocarcinoma subtype, while other morphological variants, including mucinous, enteric, signet ring cell subtype, not otherwise specified (NOS), squamous cell carcinoma, urothelial carcinoma, sarcoma, small cell carcinoma, and undifferentiated carcinoma, totally account for about 10%. The urachal carcinoma occurs mostly in the lower segment of urachal tube and bladder dome or anterior wall. However, due to the classically silent nature of the early lesions and high malignancy, urachal carcinoma patients are commonly diagnosed in advanced stage. Treatment modalities for local recurrence or metastatic urachal cancer include surgery and chemotherapy (cisplatin and 5‐FU based‐chemotherapy). Meanwhile, the EGFR‐, PD‐L1‐, and MEK‐targeted therapies in the metastatic urachal carcinoma cases showed satisfactory response. We presented a rare case of Sheldon stage IVB urachal adenocarcinoma with pulmonary metastasis, and the patient had no progression of disease 6 months following surgical treament without chemoradiotherapy.
Growing importance of price: Investigating food values before and during high inflation in Germany
Authors: Hempel Corinna , Roosen Jutta
Published: October 2024

Considering the consumption‐induced intensification of global challenges and the continuously changing consumer needs, it is important to understand the drivers of consumer food choices under external pressures. We applied best–worst scaling to elicit the relative importance of 11 food values and conducted latent class cluster analyses based on individual scores, allowing us to gain insights into distinctive consumer segments. Data were collected through online surveys of 1000 consumers in Bavaria, southern Germany, in November 2020 and November 2022. As expected, the relative importance of food value price has strongly increased during this period. Similarly, the price‐sensitive segment has become larger in 2022 than in 2020, while the societal impact‐centered segment has become much smaller in 2022. These findings call for target‐specific measures to counteract this trend of increasing price focus that challenges sustainable dietary transitions.
Gross Anatomy of the Equine Masseter Muscle: Lamination and Intramuscular Course of the N. Massetericus
Authors: Süß Franziska , Guth Sinja , Müller‐Ehrenberg Hannes , Röcken Michael , Staszyk Carsten
Published: October 2024

The masticatory muscles of the horse are arranged in an asymmetrical pattern. Four individual muscles on the medial side of the mandible are opposed by one muscle (M. masseter) on the lateral side. However, recent studies on various herbivorous mammals indicate that the masseter muscle features a complex stratigraphic structure that might account for a functional diversity resembling an arrangement of several individual muscles. The functional consideration of the multidirectional equine masticatory movements leads to a similar hypothesis. In order to elucidate the detailed anatomy of the equine masseter muscle, eight cadaveric equine heads were dissected. Additional 29 skull specimens were assessed with regard to the masseteric attachment within the Fossa masseterica. A constant arrangement of nine individual muscular layers within the masseteric muscle was determined. The individual layers were clearly separated by tendon plates and their attachment areas at the masseteric fossa of the mandible were arranged in a constant pattern of bony ridges. With similar consistency, the main trunk of the masseteric nerve was found to run from dorsocaudal to ventrorostral: On that course, the nerve penetrated between the muscular layers from medial to lateral at constant positions. The findings of this study serve as a basis for further studies with the aim of developing biomechanical concepts of equine masticatory movement.
Prescribing patterns in people living with dementia in the community: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Lau Edward Chun Yin , Jeon Yun‐Hee , Hilmer Sarah N. , Tan Edwin C. K.
Published: October 2024

Objectives

To identify the prevalence of and factors associated with medication use in people living with dementia in the community.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study using baseline data from a randomised controlled trial known as the Interdisciplinary Home‐bAsed Reablement Program (I‐HARP) between 2018 and 2021 in Sydney, Australia. Participants included people with mild–moderate dementia and their carers. Medication use was classified according to the Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical codes, while potentially inappropriate medications (PIMs) were defined using 2019 Beer's Criteria and 2024 Australian list. Logistic regression models were used to identify factors associated with use of medication classes.

Results

A total of 130 people with dementia and their carers were included. Of the people with dementia, 35% were using antidementia medication, 48% psychotropics, 76% PIMs and 65% polypharmacy (≥5 medications). Polypharmacy was associated with the use of psychotropics (adjusted OR [aOR]: 5.09, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.94–13.39) and PIMs (aOR: 17.38, 95% CI: 5.12–59.02). Higher education level was associated with lower odds of psychotropic use (aOR: .33, 95% CI: .15–.76), and age over 80 years was associated with lower odds of antidementia medication use (aOR: .29; 95% CI: .12–.72).

Conclusions

The use of PIMs, psychotropics and polypharmacy were common in this sample of people with dementia living in the community. Associations were seen between participant characteristics and medication use. Future research should focus on reviewing PIMs and polypharmacy in people with dementia living in the community to assess the impact on health outcomes.
The prevalence of falls and associated factors in older adults of the Torres Strait
Authors: Henry Roselani , Sagigi Betty , Miller Gavin , Russell Sarah G. , Thompson Fintan , Quigley Rachel , Strivens Edward
Published: October 2024

Objective

To assess the prevalence of falls and examine associations between falls and potential risk factors in older adults of the Torres Strait Region of Australia.

Methods

Two hundred and fifty people aged ≥45 years residing in the Torres Strait, who identified as Torres Strait Islander, Aboriginal or both, were asked whether they had sustained any falls in the past year. Associations between self‐reported falls and predictor variables were examined using logistic regression.

Results

21% of participants reported at least one fall; 9% reported ≥2 falls. Participants who reported any falls in the past year were more than twice as likely to have urinary incontinence and poor mobility (p < .01) compared to participants who did not report any falls.

Conclusions

Around one in five respondents reported one or more falls in the past year, demonstrating that falls are a significant issue for older adults of the Torres Strait. Fall prevention strategies that are effective in other populations are likely to be beneficial to the region but need to be informed by local consultation and implemented in partnership with the people of the Torres Strait.
Predictors of wound healing after surgical deroofing in Hidradenitis Suppurativa
Authors: Pham James , Sholji Tara , Guttman Lauren , Allan Timothy , Frew John W.
Published: October 2024

Background/Objectives

Surgical deroofing is an essential part of ongoing management of Hidradenitis Suppurativa, including persistent lesions non‐responsive to medical therapy. The variables associated with delayed wound healing after surgical deroofing are contradictory within the literature due to the inclusion of heterogeneous surgical intervention methods. We aimed to assess the predictors of time to wound healing after surgical deroofing in HS.

Methods

Patients who underwent in‐office surgical deroofing between 2020 and 2024 at a single tertiary HS referral centre were included in analysis. Demographic, disease and blood variables were collected as per standard of care. Statistical analysis was performed using univariate correlation, with multiple regression performed to explore the interactions between variables and identify variables predictive of time to wound healing.

Results

A total of 270 individuals were included in the analysis. The median time to wound healing was 9.6 weeks with a range from 4 to 22 weeks. Kaplan–Meier curves demonstrated significant differences with the log rank test when comparing biologic use versus no use, normal versus abnormal CRP and normal versus abnormal haemoglobin. Cox regression analysis identified biologic use with a significant hazard ratio compared to no biologic therapy (HR = 2.512, p < 0.0001) along with baseline CRP (HR = 0.968, p < 0.0001) and baseline haemoglobin (HR = 1.052, p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Time to wound healing after in‐office deroofing can be decreased with prior biologic therapy and markers of systemic inflammation in blood are also significantly associated with delays in healing. This correlates well with the existing literature promoting concurrent medical and surgical therapy to improve patient outcomes in HS.
Blocking the HIF‐1α/glycolysis axis inhibits allergic airway inflammation by reducing ILC2 metabolism and function
Authors: Zhang Xiaogang , Liu Jingping , Li Xinyao , Zheng Guilang , Wang Tianci , Sun Hengbiao , Huang Zhengcong , He Junyu , Qiu Ju , Zhao Zhibin , Guo Yuxiong , He Yumei
Published: October 2024

Background

The role of lung group 2 innate lymphoid cell (ILC2) activation in allergic asthma is increasingly established. However, the regulatory mechanisms underlying hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1α (HIF‐1α)‐mediated glycolysis in ILC2‐mediated allergic airway inflammation remain unclear.

Objective

To investigate the role of the HIF‐1α/glycolysis axis in ILC2‐mediated allergic airway inflammation.

Methods

Glycolysis and HIF‐1α inhibitors were used to identify their effect on the function and glucose metabolism of mouse and human ILC2s in vivo and vitro. Blocking glycolysis and HIF‐1α in mice under interleukin‐33 (IL‐33) stimulation were performed to test ILC2 responses. Conditional HIF‐1α‐deficient mice were used to confirm the specific role of HIF‐1α in ILC2‐driven airway inflammation models. Transcriptomic, metabolic, and chromatin immunoprecipitation analyses were performed to elucidate the underlying mechanism.

Results

HIF‐1α is involved in ILC2 metabolism and is crucial in allergic airway inflammation. Single‐cell sequencing data analysis and qPCR confirmation revealed a significant upregulation of glycolysis‐related genes, particularly HIF‐1α, in murine lung ILC2s after IL‐33 intranasal administration or injection. Treatment with the glycolysis inhibitor 2‐deoxy‐D‐glucose (2‐DG) and the HIF‐1α inhibitor 2‐methoxyestradiol (2‐ME) abrogated inflammation by suppressing ILC2s function. Conditional HIF‐1α‐deficient mice showed reduced ILC2 response and airway inflammation induced upon IL‐33 or house dust mite (HDM) stimulation. Transcriptome and metabolic analyses revealed significantly impaired glycolysis in lung ILC2s in conditional HIF‐1α knockout mice compared to that in their littermate controls. Chromatin immunoprecipitation results confirmed the transcriptional downregulation of glycolysis‐related genes in HIF‐1α‐knockout and 2‐DG‐treated mice. Furthermore, impaired HIF‐1α/glycolysis axis activation is correlated with downregulated ILC2 in patients with asthma.

Conclusion

The HIF‐1α/glycolysis axis is critical for controlling ILC2 responses in allergic airway inflammation and has potential immunotherapeutic value in asthma.
Progranulin derivative attenuates lung neutrophilic infiltration from diesel exhaust particle exposure
Authors: Lee A. Ryang , Jeong Mini , Koo Kyomoon , Kim Sin‐Jeong , Pyo Min Ju , Hong Yeeun , Ha Yura , Moon Keun‐Ai , Shim Hyun Jae , Lee Ji‐Hyang , Kwon Hyouk‐Soo , Cho You Sook
Published: October 2024

Background

Air pollutants, such as diesel exhaust particles (DEPs), induce respiratory disease exacerbation with neutrophilic infiltration. Progranulin (PGRN), an epithelial cell and macrophage‐derived secretory protein, is associated with neutrophilic inflammation. PGRN is digested into various derivatives at inflammatory sites and is involved in several inflammatory processes. PGRN and its derivatives likely regulate responses to DEP exposure in allergic airway inflammation.

Aim

To investigate the role of PGRN and its derivatives in the regulation of responses to DEP exposure in allergic airway inflammation.

Methods

A murine model of allergic airway inflammation was generated in PGRN‐deficient mice, and they were simultaneously exposed to DEP followed by intranasal administration of full‐length recombinant PGRN (PGRN‐FL) and a PGRN‐derived fragment (FBAC). Inflammatory status was evaluated by bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and histopathologic analyses. Human bronchial epithelial cells were stimulated with DEPs and house dust mites (HDMs), and the effect of FBAC treatment was evaluated by assessing various intracellular signaling molecules, autophagy markers, inflammatory cytokines, and intracellular oxidative stress.

Results

DEP exposure exaggerated neutrophilic inflammation, enhanced IL‐6 and CXCL15 secretions, and increased oxidative stress in the murine model; this effect was greater in PGRN‐deficient mice than in wild‐type mice. The DEP‐exposed mice with PGRN‐FL treatment revealed no change in neutrophil infiltration and higher oxidative stress status in the lungs. On the contrary, FBAC administration inhibited neutrophilic infiltration and reduced oxidative stress. In human bronchial epithelial cells, DEP and HDM exposure increased intracellular oxidative stress and IL‐6 and IL‐8 secretion. Decreased nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor 2 (Nrf2) expression and increased phosphor‐p62 and LC3B expression were also observed. FBAC treatment attenuated oxidative stress from DEP and HDM exposure.

Conclusions

FBAC reduced neutrophilic inflammation exaggerated by DEP exposure in a mouse model of allergic airway inflammation by reducing oxidative stress. PGRN and PGRN‐derived proteins may be novel therapeutic agents in attenuating asthma exacerbation induced by air pollutant exposure.
From bite to brain: Neuro‐immune interactions in food allergy
Authors: Houghton Vikki , Eiwegger Thomas , Florsheim Esther Borges , Knibb Rebecca C. , Thuret Sandrine , Santos Alexandra F.
Published: October 2024

Immunoglobulin E (IgE)‐mediated food allergies are reported to affect around 3.5% of children and 2.4% of adults, with symptoms varying in range and severity. While being the gold standard for diagnosis, oral food challenges are burdensome, and diagnostic tools based on specific IgE can be flawed. Furthering our understanding of the mechanisms behind food allergy onset, severity and persistence could help reveal immune profiles associated with the disease, to ultimately aid in diagnosis. Alterations to cytokine levels and immune cell ratios have been identified, though further research is needed to fully capture the heterogenous nature of food allergy. Moreover, the existence of such immune alterations also raises the question of potential wider systemic effects. For example, recent research has emphasised the existence and impact of neuro‐immune interactions and implicated behavioural and neurological changes associated with food allergy. This review will provide an overview of such food allergy‐driven neuro‐immune interactions, with the aim of emphasising the importance of furthering our understanding of the immune mechanisms underlying IgE‐mediated food allergy.
Pain associated with prostaglandin E1‐containing intracavernosal injection medication is associated with poor erectile function recovery after radical prostatectomy
Authors: West Michael , Cordon Billy H. , Ortega Yanira , Narus Joseph , Mulhall John P.
Published: October 2024

Background

Intracavernosal injection therapy is often used as second‐line therapy for erectile dysfunction associated with radical prostatectomy when therapy with phosphodiesterase‐5 inhibitors has failed, but prostaglandin E1‐containing vasoactive agents are associated with penile pain in some men.

Objectives

To define the incidence of pain with prostaglandin E1‐containing intracavernosal injection mixtures for erectile dysfunction associated with radical prostatectomy when therapy with phosphodiesterase‐5 inhibitors has failed, and whether pain was a predictor of erectile function recovery.

Materials and methods

Men who underwent radical prostatectomy and were commenced on intracavernosal injection within 12 months of radical prostatectomy were included. A pain visual analog scale (0–10) was used to assess the degree of pain. Erectile function recovery was defined as the International Index of Erectile Function domain score ≥24 using phosphodiesterase‐5 inhibitors at 24 months.

Results

The study included 566 patients, mean age was 58 ± 14 (42–74) years. Duration post‐radical prostatectomy at intracavernosal injection training was 3.5 ± 3.5 m. Nerve sparing status: bilateral 76%, unilateral 13%, and non‐nerve sparing 11%. Incidence of pain with intracavernosal injection per nerve sparing status: bilateral 10% of patients, unilateral 32%, non‐nerve sparing 92% (p < 0.001). Median visual analog scale in those experiencing pain: bilateral 4 (interquartile range 3, 5), unilateral 5.5 (interquartile range 3, 6), non‐nerve sparing 7 (interquartile range 3, 9) (p < 0.001). Phosphodiesterase‐5 inhibitors success at 24 months (no pain vs. pain): bilateral 70% vs. 40% (p < 0.001), unilateral 50% vs. 28% (p < 0.001), non‐nerve sparing 10% vs. 0% (p < 0.001). On multivariate analysis, predictors of failure to respond to phosphodiesterase‐5 inhibitors at 24 months post‐radical prostatectomy included baseline erectile function, increasing age, incomplete nerve‐sparing surgery, and presence of pain.

Discussion

The presence of penile pain with intracavernosal injection is associated with poorer erectile function recovery post‐radical prostatectomy.

Conclusions

Incidence of pain is high in men with non‐nerve sparing radical prostatectomy; older patient age, poorer nerve sparing, poor baseline erectile function, and the presence of penile pain with prostaglandin E1‐containing intracavernosal injection medication, were predictive of poor erectile function recovery using phosphodiesterase‐5 inhibitors at 24 months.
Safety concerns of paternal drug exposure on fertility, pregnancy and offspring: An analysis based on the FDA adverse event reporting system
Authors: Zeng Yanbin , Lin Wanlong , Zhuang Wei
Published: October 2024

Background

Growing evidence indicates that paternal condition significantly influences pregnancy outcomes and offspring health. However, assessing the safety of paternal drug exposure via randomized controlled trials poses ethical challenges, and relevant clinical studies consume a lot of resources to evaluate only a few drugs. Currently, safety data on paternal drug exposure are scarce.

Objectives

To investigate the impact of paternal drug exposure on fertility, pregnancy outcomes, and offspring health.

Materials and methods

Data from the FDA adverse event reporting system (FAERS) were analyzed (2010–2022). Disproportionality analyses were used to identify signals of each drug‐adverse event pair associated with paternal drug exposure in a different hierarchical manner.

Results

Out of the 16,180,533 reports, 3210 were related to paternal exposure, encompassing 7808 concomitant adverse events. Drugs used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, cancer, and infections were primary sources of paternal exposure. Analysis identified 115 signals concerning reproductive health. Notably, the signals of diazepam‐small for dates baby and finasteride‐cryptorchidism were particularly significant (reporting odds ratio, ROR > 800, N > 10). Moreover, spontaneous abortion signals occur frequently in biologics for the treatment of immune inflammation; the use of immunosuppressive drugs was associated with the highest number of congenital anomalies, with the strongest signals for belatacept‐skeletal dysplasia, and tacrolimus‐talipes. Only mycophenolic acid, estrogen and imatinib have signals on male fertility. Anti‐tumor agents had high numbers of each reproductive toxicity, with the highest values of trisomy 13 signals associated with etoposide and cisplatin.

Conclusions

This is the first research to fully assess the safety of paternal exposure to the majority of medications in terms of reproduction. Clinical and scientific researchers should pay close attention to the list of risk medications included in this study, particularly the following association combinations: biologics used to treat inflammatory diseases—abortion, diazepam—small for date baby, finasteride—cryptorchidism, etoposide and cisplatin‐13 trisomy.
An exploratory study of alternative life experiences in comparison to transcendental near‐death experiences
Authors: King Robert A.
Published: October 2024

The term near‐death experience (NDE) generally refers to a state of altered consciousness that can occur during real or presumed near‐death circumstances and/or life‐threatening incidents. The NDE usually includes the impression of being conscious while out of and/or away from the physical body, often accompanied by other specific features. Furthermore, when the experient has the impression of being in a perceived locality that transcends the observable physical Earth, it is referred to by researchers as a transcendental NDE. Whereas transcendental NDEs have been widely studied, there is also another type of experience that can occur under similar life‐threatening conditions that I refer to as an alternative life experience (ALE), which consists of a perception of living another alternative life where the experient is aware of the self, but does not believe at the time of occurrence that they are either out of or away from their physical body. After providing a total of 15 examples, I note some similarities and differences between ALEs and transcendental NDEs while providing some qualitative and quantitative results, suggesting that ALEs might be similar to some aspects of transcendental NDEs despite their neglect in the study of altered states of consciousness during near‐death circumstances. I further postulate that ALEs might be subjective psychological experiences of dissociation and/or absorption. It is then pointed out that symptoms of derealization are a common ALE aftereffect and so an awareness of that association is stressed as having therapeutic importance.
Counter‐Mapping, Counter‐Histories, and Insurgencies of Subjugated Knowledges in the Fisher Struggle for Ennore Creek
Authors: Jayaraman Nityanand , Bremner Lindsay , Coelho Karen , Kumar Pooja , Kasinathan Saravanan
Published: October 2024

The Ennore wetlands in North Chennai, India were once dense with diverse habitats and interwoven histories. Many of these histories began to unravel from the 1960s onwards, when state‐sponsored heavy industry began encroaching into and polluting the wetlands. Local fishers, whose lives, livelihoods, and cultural worlds were ignored by these changes, fought back in a campaign to reclaim and restore the wetlands. This paper analyses how the Save Ennore Creek Campaign and Ennore fishers used counter‐mapping strategies to reveal the state's wilful suppression of fisher knowledge and worldviews using maps and plans. It draws from decolonial and ignorance studies literatures to analyse the campaign's counter‐maps as cartographic, performative, and affective insurrections of subjugated knowledges and counter‐histories that un‐made the state's maps and plans, exposed the state's knowledge as wilful ignorance and spotlighted geographical knowledge from the margins as a way of remaking reality and opening up possibilities of alternative futures for the creek and its communities.
Cognitive and academic outcomes of large‐for‐gestational‐age babies born at early term: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Zhao Xuan , Poskett Alice , Stracke Marie , Quenby Siobhan , Wolke Dieter
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Early induction of labor (37+0–38+6 gestational weeks) in large‐for‐gestational‐age infants may reduce perinatal risks such as shoulder dystocia, but it may also increase the long‐term risks of reduced cognitive abilities. This systematic review aimed to evaluate the cognitive and academic outcomes of large‐for‐gestational‐age children born early term vs full term (combined or independent exposures).

Material and Methods

The protocol was registered in the PROSPERO database under the registration no. CRD42024528626. Five databases were searched from their inception until March 27, 2024, without language restrictions. Studies reporting childhood cognitive or academic outcomes after early term or large‐for‐gestational‐age births were included. Two reviewers independently screened the selected studies. One reviewer extracted the data, and the other double‐checked the data. The risk of bias was assessed using the Newcastle‐Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale. In addition to narrative synthesis, meta‐analyses were conducted where possible.

Results

Of the 2505 identified articles, no study investigated early‐term delivery in large‐for‐gestational‐age babies. Seventy‐six studies involving 11 460 016 children investigated the effects of either early‐term delivery or large‐for‐gestational‐age. Children born at 37 weeks of gestation (standard mean difference, −0.13; 95% confidence interval, −0.21 to −0.05), but not at 38 weeks (standard mean difference, −0.04; 95% confidence interval, −0.08 to 0.002), had lower cognitive scores than those born at 40 weeks. Large‐for‐gestational‐age children had slightly higher cognitive scores than appropriate‐for‐gestational‐age children (standard mean difference, 0.06; 95% confidence interval, 0.01–0.11). Similar results were obtained using the outcomes of either cognitive impairment or academic performance.

Conclusions

No study has investigated the combined effect of early‐term delivery on cognitive scores in large‐for‐gestational‐age babies. Early‐term delivery may have a very small detrimental effect on cognitive scores, whereas being large for gestational age may have a very small benefit. However, evidence from randomized controlled trials or observational studies is required.
Genetic correlations between milk fatty acids grouped according to origin until 95 days in milk and fertility of Holstein cows in Japan
Authors: Yamazaki Takeshi , Nishiura Akiko , Chiba Yuzu , Nakagawa Satoshi , Abe Hayato , Nakahori Yuka , Hagiya Koichi , Osawa Takefumi , Masuda Yutaka
Published: October 2024

Mitigating the effect of negative energy balance in early lactation is important for improving the fertility of dairy cows, and milk fatty acid (FA) composition may reflect energy status. We used insemination records and monthly test‐day records to examine the genetic relationships between FAs grouped according to origin (FAOs) at early lactation and fertility traits in the first lactation of Japanese Holstein cows. The FAO traits we assessed were de novo FAs (C4:0 to C14:0) on a milk basis (DnM) and on a total FA basis (DnF) and preformed FAs (C15:0 and ≥ C17:0) on a total FA basis during 95 days in milk (DIM). The fertility traits evaluated were conception rate at first insemination (CR) and days open (DO). We applied a two‐trait (each FAO and fertility trait) linear model to estimate the genetic correlations between them. The genetic correlations of DnM and DnF within 35 DIM with CR were 0.44 and 0.31, respectively, and those with DO were −0.27 and −0.26, respectively. These results suggest that genetic improvement in de novo FAs within 35 DIM could help to increase fertility in the first lactation.
Frequencies and causes of ABO‐incompatible red cell transfusions in France, Germany and the United Kingdom
Authors: Mirrione‐Savin Aline , Aghili Pour Hengameh , Swarbrick Nicola , Müller Susanne , Bacquet Caroline , Malard Lucile , Murphy Michael F. , Richard Pascale , Davies Jennifer , Rowley Megan , Poles Debbi , Sandid Imad , Funk Markus B. , Narayan Shruthi , Tiberghien Pierre , Schäfer Richard
Published: October 2024

Prevention of ABO‐incompatible red cell transfusions (ABO‐it) requires accurate donor and patient identification and correct application of processes for transfusion safety. In France and Germany, a bedside identity check and ABO compatibility test are performed. In the UK, an identity check, often structured as a bedside checklist, is performed with or without electronic patient identification (ePID). To compare the efficacy of ABO‐it bedside preventive measures, frequencies and causes of ABO‐it between 2013 and 2022 were investigated in all three countries. Despite differing bedside safety measures, similar average ABO‐it frequencies were observed in France (0.19 [SD:0.09]/100 000 issued red cell units) and in the UK (0.28 [SD:0.17]/100 000), whereas a higher frequency (0.71 [SD:0.23]/100 000) was observed in Germany which has similar bedside safety measures to France. ABO‐it resulted mostly from erroneous patient identification and transfusion of a red cell unit intended for another patient. In France and Germany, all ABO‐it were associated with incorrectly performed identity check and ABO compatibility test. In the UK, most ABO‐it were associated with incorrectly performed identity checks. Current measures to prevent ABO‐it are not fully effective. Further development and implementation of effective patient identification systems, including electronic information systems, across the entire transfusion process, should be considered.
Goodbye etoposide? Taking the leap to ruxolitinib in haemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis
Authors: Merrill Samuel A. , Spaner Caroline , Chen Luke Y. C.
Published: October 2024

Fang et al. report a retrospective analysis of paediatric patients with haemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) associated with autoimmune/autoinflammatory disorders treated with ruxolitinib. Responses were impressive and rapid, and ruxolitinib was well tolerated. This study demonstrates that a subset of patients with HLH can be treated with JAK inhibition without the need for cytotoxic chemotherapy. Further work will be needed to better define patient selection for therapy, as some patient groups and HLH triggers, such as malignancy‐associated HLH, may be better suited for etoposide‐based therapy.

Commentary on: Fang et al. Ruxolitinib‐based regimen in children with autoimmune disease or autoinflammatory disease related hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis. Br J Haematol 2025; 206:215‐223.
An international multicentre randomised controlled trial of en bloc resection of bladder tumour vs conventional transurethral resection of bladder tumour: first results of the en bloc resection of urothelium carcinoma of the bladder (EBRUC) II trial
Authors: Struck Julian Peter , Moharam Nadim , Leitenberger Armin , Weber Jörg , Lusuardi Lukas , Oswald David , Rassweiler Jens J. , Fiedler Marcel , Horňák Jakub , Babjuk Marek , Micali Salvatore , Zaraca Carlo , Spreu Thomas , Friedersdorff Frank , Borgmann Hendrik , Merseburger Axel S. , Kramer Mario W.
Published: October 2024

Objectives

To determine the safety and oncological advantages of en bloc resection of bladder tumour (ERBT) vs conventional transurethral resection of bladder tumour (cTURBT) in terms of resection quality, staging quality, and safety.

Patients and Methods

We conducted a single‐blinded randomised controlled trial at seven European hospitals with the following inclusion criteria: first diagnosis of non‐muscle‐invasive bladder cancer, no singular carcinoma in situ, and tumour size >4.3 mm. Patients were randomised intraoperatively in a 1:1 ratio to either the ERBT or cTURBT group. Outcome analysis was performed using the chi‐square test, t‐test, and multivariate regression analysis.

Results

A total of 97 patients were randomised into the study (cTURBT = 40, ERBT = 57). A switch to cTURBT was necessary in two patients (3.5%) and 11.5% of the screened patients were preoperatively excluded for ERBT. There was no difference in the specimen presence of detrusor muscle with 73.7% in cTURBT and 67.3% in ERBT specimens (P = 0.69). There were no significant differences in mean operative time (ERBT 27.6 vs cTURBT 25.4 min, P = 0.450) or mean resection time (ERBT 16.3 vs cTURBT 15.5 min, P = 0.732). Overall the complication rate did not differ significantly (ERBT 18.2% vs cTURBT 7.5%, P = 0.142). Bladder perforations occurred significantly more often in the ERBT group (ERBT seven vs cTURBT none, P = 0.020). R0 status was reported more often after ERBT, whilst a second resection was significantly less frequent after ERBT (P = 0.018). Recurrence rates were comparable for both techniques after 6 months of follow‐up.

Conclusion

The feasibility of ERBT is higher than previously reported. Whereas other perioperative and safety parameters are comparable to cTURBT, bladder perforations occurred significantly more often in the ERBT group and raised safety concerns. This is why this trial was terminated.
Somatostatin receptors in pituitary somatotroph adenomas as predictors of response to somatostatin receptor ligands: A pathologist's perspective
Authors: Botelho Laura , Dezonne Rômulo Sperduto , Wildemberg Luiz Eduardo , Miranda Renan Lyra , Gadelha Mônica R. , Andreiuolo Felipe
Published: October 2024

There are five subtypes of somatostatin receptors (SST1‐5), which are expressed in several types of solid neoplasms, neuroendocrine tumors, and pituitary adenomas. Most commonly, SST2 and SST5, are of interest regarding diagnostic, treatment, and prognostic purposes. In this article the basic biological characteristics of SST are briefly reviewed, and focus given to the immunohistochemical evaluation of SST2 and SST5 in growth hormone (GH)‐secreting pituitary tumors, and their quantification as predictors of response to treatment with somatostatin receptor ligands (SRL), the mainstay of the pharmacological therapy available for these tumors. Although many different scoring systems for SST2 immunohistochemistry showing correlation with SRL response have been reported, among which the immunoreactivity score (IRS) has been the most consistently used, a universally validated immunohistochemical technique and scoring scheme is lacking. Efforts should be made on collaborative multicenter studies aiming at validating homogeneous immunostaining protocols and a scoring system for SST2 and SST5 expression, to help clinicians to define the optimal therapeutic strategy for the patients with somatotroph tumors.
Aerobic exercise improves astrocyte mitochondrial quality and transfer to neurons in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Cai Jiachen , Chen Yan , She Yuzhu , He Xiaoxin , Feng Hu , Sun Huaiqing , Yin Mengmei , Gao Junying , Sheng Chengyu , Li Qian , Xiao Ming
Published: October 2024

Mitochondrial dysfunction is a well‐established hallmark of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Despite recent documentation of transcellular mitochondrial transfer, its role in the pathogenesis of AD remains unclear. In this study, we report an impairment of mitochondrial quality within the astrocytes and neurons of adult 5 × FAD mice. Following treatment with mitochondria isolated from aged astrocytes induced by exposure to amyloid protein or extended cultivation, cultured neurons exhibited an excessive generation of reactive oxygen species and underwent neurite atrophy. Notably, aerobic exercise enhanced mitochondrial quality by upregulating CD38 within hippocampal astrocytes of 5 × FAD mice. Conversely, the knockdown of CD38 diminished astrocytic–neuronal mitochondrial transfer, thereby abolishing the ameliorative effects of aerobic exercise on neuronal oxidative stress, β‐amyloid plaque deposition, and cognitive dysfunction in 5 × FAD mice. These findings unveil an unexpected mechanism through which aerobic exercise facilitates the transference of healthy mitochondria from astrocytes to neurons, thus countering the AD‐like progression.