bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing the Efficacy of Homoeopathic Medicine Gibberellic Acid 3X in Enhancing Yield Production in Neelam Mango Trees: A Comparative Pilot Study
Authors: Siddesha G.  , Steefan Justina M. , Maniprasad Gone
Published: November 2023

Aims: Assess the influence of Gibberellic Acid 3X on yield production: Measure the effect of Gibberellic Acid 3X treatment on increasing the overall yield of Neelam mangoes, including the number of fruits, fruit weight, and fruit size, compared to the control group.

Study Design: A Comparative Pilot Study.

Place and Duration of Study: MNR Homoeopathic Medical College and Hospital premises with good sunlight and ventilation, Sangareddy, between February 2023 to August 2023.

Methodology: The total sample size was taken as 6 Branches of 2 Trees. Three branches of a tree were divided into 3 groups. This is to ensure that the flowers of the mango tree will be receiving the same amount of water, nutrients, and sunlight. Gibberellic acid 3x was prepared according to rules and regulations of Homoeopathic Pharmacopoeia of India (HPI). Foliar application of medicine was done after the flowering of plant. The fruits are taken for analysis once they have matured.

Results: The "Gibberellic Acid 3X - Alcoholic potency" group had the highest mean weight (563.94 grams) and circumference (18.106 cm), followed by the "Gibberellic Acid 3X - Water potency" group with slightly lower values (556.67 grams for weight and 17.771 cm for circumference). Additionally, the "Gibberellic Acid 3X - Alcoholic potency" group had the longest mean length (18.833 cm), followed by the "Gibberellic Acid 3X - Water potency" group (17.646 cm). Overall, the "Gibberellic Acid 3X - Alcoholic potency" group displayed the highest measurements in weight, circumference, and length among the three groups.

Conclusion: In conclusion, this study provides evidence of the potential of homoeopathic medicine, specifically Gibberellic Acid 3X, as an effective alternative for addressing enhancing yield production in Neelam mango trees when applied via foliar spray method on flowers. It opens doors to exploring more sustainable and eco-friendly approaches to mango cultivation and warrants further investigation and application in agricultural practices.
Using CRISPR/Cas9 Technology to Improve Crops and Address the Global Food Crisis: A Review
Authors: Abdullah Muhammad Ashar , Fatima Sana , Khaliq Fasiha , Mehmood Muzamal , Yousaf Talha , Mustafa Muhammad Bilal , Abbas Muhammad Qamer , Hassan Ali
Published: November 2023

By developing a revolutionary method for modifying the genomes of living things, genome editing (GE) has completely changed the biological sciences. Recent years have seen the development of several technologies that make altering complex genomes possible. For agricultural crop production to be sustained and contribute to global food security, a fast and dependable method of raising yield and resilience to different environmental pressures is therefore required. The GE instruments for crop enhancement are explained in detail in this analytical research. Zinc-finger nucleases (ZFNs), transcriptional activator-like effector nucleases (TALENs), and clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) are a few examples of these tools. This category also includes mega-nucleases (MNs). In particular, the most recent advancements in the use of CRISPR/Cas9 for genome editing for major agricultural improvements - like the creation of crops that are more yielding and of higher quality - are covered this paper. When this approach is put into practice, non-transgene crops with desired traits will be produced, which might lead to increased yield capacity under different environmental challenges. To increase agricultural production and guarantee food security, the CRISPR/Cas9 methodology may be used in conjunction with existing and future breeding techniques (such as omics-assisted breeding and speed breeding). The difficulties and restrictions associated with CRISPR/Cas9 have also been covered. Plant breeders and scientists doing a detailed analysis of the use of CRISPR/Cas9 to enhance crops by focusing on the desired gene will find this material to be helpful.
Formaldehyde: From Interstellar Space to the Pathology Laboratory
Authors: Romano L. A. , Pedrosa V. F. , Giesta L. B.
Published: November 2023

The “Type of Article” of this paper is “Letter to the Editor”. This paper discuses about: “Formaldehyde: From Interstellar Space to the Pathology Laboratory”. No formal abstract is available. Readers are requested to read the full article.
Agroclimatic Indices, Phenology and Growth Response of Clusterbean to Different Dates of Sowing and Varieties
Authors: Bharti Rahul Raj , Khichar Madan Lal , Godara Mohit , Kumar Anil , Pareek Akshay , Kumar Pradeep
Published: November 2023

A field experiment was performed to study the effect of different sowing times and varieties on agroclimatic indices, phenology and growth of clusterbean at CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar (Haryana). Experiment was laid out in factorial randomized block design with three replications. Treatments consists of two factors i.e. sowing time and varieties. Three clusterbean varieties i.e. HG 365 (V1), HG 563 (V2) and HG 2-20 (V3) with each sown at three different dates of sowing i.e first (D1), third (D2) and fourth (D3) week of July. Clusterbean variety HG 563(V2), sown in first week of July (D1) resulted in significantly higher accumulation of agroclimatic indices i.e. growing degree days, photo thermal units, heliothermal units and heat use efficiency because the early sown crop had a fully developed normal reproductive phase and took longer time to attain maturity. Similarly, more number of days were taken for emergence, days to 50% flowering, days to 50% pod formation and days to maturity in variety HG 563, sown in first week of July. Significantly higher leaf area index and dry matter accumulation were observed in HG 563 sown on 1st week of July than rest of the varieties and date of sowings.
Antibiotic Prescribing Practice in a Paediatric Outpatient Clinic in Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria
Authors: Nwolisa Emeka , Ikejiaku Udochukwuka , Ezeogu Joseph , Asinobi Kingsley , Odinaka Kelechi , Nwankwo Ezinne
Published: November 2023

Background: Antibiotics are amongst the most frequently prescribed drugs for children in outpatient clinics but irrational prescribing can cause medication errors, antibiotic resistance and treatment failure.  Examples of irrational prescribing includes poly-pharmacy, over use of injections, inappropriate use of antimicrobials and failure to prescribe in accordance with treatment guidelines.

This study sought to assess antibiotic prescribing practice in the children’s outpatient clinic of the Federal university teaching hospital Owerri, Imo state.

Materials and Methods: This was a descriptive prospective study carried out in the Children’s Outpatient Clinic (CHOP) of the Federal university teaching hospital Owerri, Imo state Nigeria between April and June 2021. During the study period, medical record of patients who attended the CHOP and who had antibiotic(s) prescribed were collated. Prescribing practice was assessed using the World Health Organization prescribing indicators.

Results: A total of 495 antibiotic prescriptions were made for 478 patients.  This gave 1.04 as the average number of medicines prescribed per patient encounter.  1.6% of the antibiotics were prescribed as injections and 79.2% of the prescriptions were in generic names. While only 96.8% of the prescriptions were from the Nigerian essential drug list, the three most prescribed antibiotics Amoxicillin/Clavulanic acid, Cefuroxime and Amoxicillin are all listed in it.

Conclusion: The antibiotic prescribing practice in the children’s outpatient clinic was rational with regards to average number of medications per patient encounter and percentage of encounters with injection prescribed.  It was irrational in terms of percentage of antibiotics prescribed in generic names and percentage of antibiotics prescribed from the Nigerian essential drug list.
A Decision Support System for Computer Chair Selection: Leveraging the Simple Additive Weighting Method
Authors: Hadi Aldi Yusup , Istiono Wirawan
Published: November 2023

Aims: The objective of this study is to develop and construct a decision support system utilizing the simple additive weighting method to aid in the selection of a computer chair. Subsequently, user satisfaction with the created decision support system for computer chair selection will be assessed.

Study Design:  This research is motivated by the challenges frequently encountered in the furniture industry, as uncovered through interviews with the proprietor of a furniture store.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Informatics, Universitas Multimedia Nusantara, between January 2023 and July 2023.

Methodology: Problem identification with the furniture owner is the initial step in this research. A literature review is then conducted to gather information about the research's theory. Design and analysis are then conducted based on the findings of the literature review. Subsequently, an application is developed, followed by testing and comparison. Finally, evaluation and documentation are completed to draw conclusions from this research.

Results: The research study employed the EUCS technique to obtain conclusions, and a questionnaire was administered to assess user satisfaction with the system being investigated. The result obtained suggests a satisfaction rate of 80.47%. Based on the findings acquired, it can be deduced that the execution of the development of the decision support system for the selection of computer chairs was efficiently carried out.

Conclusion: Based on the outcomes of the user satisfaction test utilising the EUCS questionnaire, it can be inferred that the design of the decision assistance system for selecting computer chairs is deemed acceptable and effectively utilized by users.
A Needs Assessment of Educator Self-reflection in Health Sciences Education
Authors: Montague Steven , Khokhar Aditi , DeWeese Brandy , Elkins Jeananne , Otto Morkel Jacques , Ortiz Orlando , Marques Camila
Published: November 2023

Educator self-reflection is a process that empowers professors to understand what works and what doesn't work within the classroom, with a central focus on improving student education. Educator self-reflection can also lead students to engage in self-reflection, by role modeling its use and perceived value. Competence in self-reflection would be beneficial to other professional tasks amongst peers, managers, and institutions. This could improve interpretation of student evals amount to peers, lead to more productive feedback with managers, and drive institutional change. Ultimately, educator self-reflection prompts educators to ask questions of themselves in order to reflect on how they grow in order to ensure that students learn in an effective and lasting way.
Multiscale Engineered Waste Wood Particles toward a Sustainable, Scalable, and High‐Performance Structural Material
Authors: Dong Xiaofei , Song Rui , Wang Peiru , Tang Jianfu , Wang Yaoxing , Shang Ying , Xie Yanjun , Li Jian , Song Jianwei , Gan Wentao
Published: November 2023

Developing sustainable and lightweight structural materials is a promising strategy for reducing carbon emissions in transportation and buildings. However, producing high‐performance bulk structural materials from sustainable biomass materials while maintaining excellent mechanical strength remains a major challenge, especially for further scale‐up. Herein, a scalable and robust bottom‐up strategy is reported to fabricate bulk wooden plate (W‐plate) with a typical “brick‐and‐mortar” structure from engineered wood particles via moderate delignification and in situ LiCl/DMAc treatment followed by hot‐pressing. The W‐plate constructed by delignified wood particles and regenerated cellulose nanofibers can achieve a confluence of mechanical strengthening and toughening by the ordered lamination structure and multiscale cellulose micro/nanofiber crosslinking interactions, resulting in high flexural strength (225.17 ± 12.18 MPa) and high fracture toughness (4.01 ± 0.53 MPa m0.5) while maintaining a low density (1.34 g cm−3), superior to typical metals and ceramics. Moreover, the W‐plate exhibits advantageous thermal properties, including a low thermal expansion coefficient (<19 × 10−6 K−1) and a high storage modulus (>7.5 GPa) compared to those of petroleum‐based polymers. Coupled with abundant and renewable raw materials, all‐cellulose components, and scalable and recyclable fabrication, the W‐plate can potentially be used as a high‐performance, cost‐effective, and environmentally friendly alternative for engineering applications.
Probiotic Biofilm Modified 3D‐Printing Scaffolds for Improving Chemo‐Immunotherapy of Bone Tumor and Promoting Osteogenesis
Authors: Gu Hui‐Yun , Fan Jin‐Xuan , Bao Peng , Qu Wen‐Qiang , Hu Zhong‐Bao , Qi Bai‐Wen , Zhang Xian‐Zheng , Yu Ai‐Xi
Published: November 2023

Tumor recurrence and unfavorable bacterial biofilm formation on implants after bone tumor resection remain challenging in clinical settings. However, this dilemma also provides inspiration for the development of bioactive implants and a new route for the management of bone tumors through biofilm formation. Here, based on the characteristic that bacteria prefer to adhere to implants, 3D‐printing bioceramic scaffolds modified with probiotic biofilms are designed to augment antitumor immunity. In comparison with Akkermansia muciniphila, Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) is demonstrated to more easily form biofilms on bioceramics and is selected to engineer etched bioceramics. The LGG biofilm subjected to pasteurization guarantees good biocompatibility and enhanced doxorubicin (Dox) loading. Furthermore, the LGG biofilm combined with Dox imparts the scaffolds with multiple properties of direct chemo‐killing for tumor cells and potent immune activation. The modified scaffolds efficiently inhibit bone tumor recurrence and bone metastasis in murine tumor model receives surgical resection. Moreover, based on 3D‐printing technology, the probiotic biofilm modified scaffolds with adjustable shapes are also demonstrated to repair shape‐specific bone defects after tumor elimination. Collectively, the multifunctional 3D‐printing scaffolds realize the integrated treatment of tumor elimination and bone repair, providing a promising strategy for clinical treatment of bone tumors.
Residual herbicides in corn and their effect on fall‐planted cover crop species
Authors: Ley Ethan , Johnson Gregg , Wells Samantha , Becker Roger , Stahl Lizabeth , Miller Ryan , Sarangi Debalin
Published: November 2023

The use of residual herbicides as a part of preemergence (PRE) and in‐season layered treatments has proven to be an effective strategy for controlling late‐emerging broadleaf weed species in annual crops. However, the use of residual PRE herbicides has the potential to negatively affect other crops within an annual two‐crop rotation, such as fall‐planted cover crops. The intent of this study was to determine if PRE herbicides commonly used in the upper Midwest United States would affect stand density, height, and biomass production of fall‐planted cover crops. Field studies were conducted at three locations that differed in soil type and climate. Four PRE herbicides were applied in silage corn (Zea mays L.) in the spring: dimethenamid‐P (single application), dimethenamid‐P + saflufenacil, acetochlor + clopyralid + mesotrione, and a layered treatment of dimethenamid‐P at planting and 30 days after first application. Three cover crops were planted in the fall following silage corn harvest with a no‐till drill: winter cereal rye (Secale cereale L.), winter camelina (Camelina sativa L.), and red clover (Trifolium pratense L.). Although some of the PRE HBs tested affected cover crop spring plant density and height in sandy soils, there was no difference in cover crop biomass production at termination between herbicide treatments, regardless of soil type. These results indicate that the application of these residual PRE herbicides for control of late‐emerging weed species did not interfere with cover crop biomass production as long as soil moisture was not limiting.
Effect of mixed manure on selected chemical properties, and phosphorus adsorption characteristics of Vertisols in Haramaya district, eastern Ethiopia
Authors: Gutema Dejene Teressa , Kibret Kibebew , Robi Nigussie Dechasa , Mirkena Lemma Wogi
Published: November 2023

The phosphorus (P) fixing behaviors of Vertisols have been identified as one of the key drivers of crop response to fertilizer application. More than 75% of applied P in tropical soil was found to be inaccessible to crops due to adsorption and precipitation reactions. A pot experiment was carried out to investigate the effect of mixed manure (MM) on P adsorption characteristics and other selected Vertisol properties. The soil was amended with 0, 5, 10, and 15 t ha−1 of MM. Changes in selected soil parameters and P adsorption characteristics were evaluated after a 30‐day incubation period. An analysis of variance was used to analyze the data. The results demonstrated a substantial drop in soil pH and an increase in soil organic carbon, total nitrogen, available P, and cation exchange capacity compared to the control. The overall quantity and efficiency of adsorbed P were drastically reduced as a result of MM rates. Moreover, the interaction effect of MM and added P concentration demonstrated a considerable increase in both the quantity and efficiency of adsorbed P. Both parameters increased with increased rates of added P concentration but decreased with increasing rates of MM. Despite the fact that all treatments fit well to both the Freundlich and Langmuir isotherms, the former was used due to its greaterR2value. When compared with the control, the Freundlich adsorption coefficient and intensity were found substantially lower. As a result, MM treatment boosted P availability by decreasing adsorption and associated Vertisols characteristics.
Development of europium(III) complex fluorescent probe for hydrogen sulfide detection and its application in water samples
Authors: Cai Wenjuan , Chen Xiaoxia , Xie Ling , Yu Yanhong , Liu Gang , Fan Congbin , Pu Shouzhi
Published: November 2023

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is a crucial endogenous signaling component in organisms that is involved in redox homeostasis and numerous biological processes. Modern medical research has confirmed that hydrogen sulfide plays an important role in the pathogenesis of many diseases. Herein, a fluorescent probe Eu(ttbd)3abt based on europium(III) complex was designed and synthesized for the detection of H2S. Eu(ttbd)3abt exhibited significant quenching for H2S at long emission wavelength (625 nm), with rapid detection ability (less than 2 min), high sensitivity [limit of detection (LOD) = 0.41 μM], and massive Stokes shift (300 nm). Additionally, this probe showed superior selectivity for H2S despite the presence of other possible interference species such as biothiols. Furthermore, the probe Eu(ttbd)3abt was successfully applied to detect H2S in water samples.
Investigation of electrocatalytic activity of palladium nanoparticle for ammonia borane oxidation via single‐entity electrochemistry
Authors: Park Seungyoung , Kim Ki Jun , Kwon Seong Jung
Published: November 2023

Ammonia borane (AB) has garnered significant attention as a high‐efficiency energy source, prompting extensive investigations into its electrochemical oxidation. One prominent avenue of research focuses on the development of electrocatalysts to enhance the oxidation of AB. Employing the novel approach of single‐entity electrochemistry (SEE), the electrocatalytic properties of gold (Au), silver (Ag), and palladium (Pd) nanoparticles (NPs) for AB oxidation were explored. In the case of Au and Ag NPs, SEE experiments yielded no discernible current signal, in contrast to the electrocatalytic currents observed with bulk electrodes. However, when Pd NPs were utilized, characteristic staircase signals in the SEE measurements were observed. The variation of the SEE current signal for Pd NPs under different applied potentials, AB concentrations, and NP concentrations was further investigated. An analysis of the SEE signal elucidated the conditions under which Pd NPs can effectively catalyze AB oxidation at the single NP level.
Positioning determines function: Wandering PKM2 performs different roles in tumor cells
Authors: He Shuo , Liang Yan , Tan Yiyi , Liu Qing , Liu Tao , Lu Xiaomei , Zheng Shutao
Published: November 2023

Short for pyruvate kinase M2 subtype, PKM2 can be said of all‐round player that is notoriously known for its metabolic involvement in glycolysis. Holding a dural role as a metabolic or non‐metabolic (kinase) enzyme, PKM2 has drawn extensive attention over its biological roles implicated in tumor cells, including proliferation, migration, invasion, metabolism, and so on. wandering PKM2 can be transboundary both intracellularly and extracellularly. Specifically, PKM2 can be nuclear, cytoplasmic, mitochondrial, exosomal, or even circulate within the body. Importantly, PKM2 can function as an RNA‐binding protein (RBP) to self‐support its metabolic function. Despite extensive investigations or reviews available surrounding the biological roles of PKM2 from different angles in tumor cells, little has been described regarding some novel role of PKM2 that has been recently found, including, for example, acting as RNA‐binding protein, protection of Golgi apparatus, and remodeling of microenvironment, and so forth. Given these findings, in this review, we summarize the recent advancements made in PKM2 research, mainly from non‐metabolic respects. By the way, PKM1, another paralog of PKM2, seems to have been overlooked or under‐investigated since its discovery. Some recent discoveries made about PKM1 are also preliminarily mentioned and discussed.
Game or Learning Opportunity? – An Analytical View on the Use of Educational Escape Games in Chemistry Education
Authors: Groß Katharina , Prewitz Niklas , Belova Nadja , Lathwesen Chantal , Semmler Luzie , Hansel Marie , Strippel Christian , Engstler Valentin , Schumacher Andrea
Published: November 2023

Im Sinne des Game Based Learnings verfolgen Educational Escape Games (EEGs) das Ziel, den unterrichtlichen Lernprozess mit Spielelementen zu verbinden, um so die Motivation der Schüler:innen für eine fachliche Auseinandersetzung zu steigern und ihnen einen veränderten Zugang zu den Fachinhalten anzubieten. Verschiedene Forschungsprojekte können zeigen, dass derartige Lernsettings insbesondere auch einen Beitrag zur Steigerung überfachlicher Kompetenzen leisten. Um jedoch als adäquate Alternative zum regulären Chemieunterricht eingesetzt werden zu können, bedarf es neben dem Blick auf das Spielkonzept einer starken Fokussierung auf die fachinhaltliche Perspektive sowie die sich daraus ergebenen unterrichtlichen Konsequenzen. Der Artikel liefert eine theoretische Ausdifferenzierung von EEGs aus Fachinhaltsperspektive und zeigt auf, wie einzelne Facetten miteinander wechselwirken. Daraus werden Planungs‐ und Forschungskonsequenzen unter Bezug auf die Unterrichtsqualitätsbereiche abgeleitet.
A high‐speed, low‐power SOI CMOS circuit with variable threshold voltages
Authors: Higuchi Hisayuki , Ikeda Takahide
Published: November 2023

We have proposed a high‐speed, low‐power CMOS circuit that controls the substrate voltage of the SOI MOSFET by the output voltage of a CMOS inverter circuit. This circuit operates at a power supply voltage of 1 V or lower with a nearly constant delay for rise times and fall times of the input signal from 10 ps to 500 ps and has a maximum reduction of 60% in the delay time compared to a conventional circuit. We defined the structure to speed up this circuit and illustrated the relationship between the MOSFET device parameters and the circuit characteristics. The power consumption during standby in this circuit can be reduced to 1 nW by adjusting the supply voltage to the MOSFET substrate. © 2001 Scripta Technica, Electron Comm Jpn Pt 2, 84(5): 20–28, 2001
Development of SQUID sensor for nondestructive evaluation: Optimization of the integrated concentric DC‐SQUID gradiometer
Authors: Morooka Toshimitsu , Chinone Kazuo
Published: November 2023

We have developed concentric multiloop DC‐SQUID gradiometers for nondestructive evaluation, which were integrated on a 3 × 3 mm2 Si chip using Nb thin‐film fabrication technology. In order to obtain high spatial resolution and to cancel magnetic noise, a coplanar concentric second‐order derivative coil was adopted for the pick‐up coil. The gradiometer has obtained a perfectly symmetrical structure by directly using the pick‐coil coil as the SQUID loop. Moreover, the self‐inductance of the SQUID loop was reduced by forming the SQUID loop from the parallel‐connected multiloop coil. We confirmed by experiment using a current line that the output of the gradiometer was independent of the scanning direction and that the gradiometer was effective in quantitative evaluations. In addition, the magnetic field sensitivity was raised by the multiloop coil, designed optimally. © 2001 Scripta Technica, Electron Comm Jpn Pt 2, 84(5): 37–45, 2001
Enhancement of photoelasticity assisted by surface acoustic wave and its application to the optical modulator
Authors: Nakagawa Yasuhiko , Yawata Mitsuhiro , Kakio Shoji
Published: November 2023

If a surface acoustic wave is excited on the substrate when an optical thin‐film waveguide is fabricated on it, the photoelasticity of the thin film is found to nearly double. The present research investigates both theoretically and experimentally this enhancement of photoelasticity by surface acoustic waves. The structure used is (Ta2O5/SiO2/128°YX‐LiNbO3) with a thin‐film waveguide made of tantalum pentoxide (Ta2O5), the most stable among the oxides. A photoacoustic deflector is fabricated in which both the TE and TM modes can propagate. From the deflection efficiency, the photoelasticity (p11, p12) is estimated. It is found that p11 is increased by a factor of 2.27 and p12 by a factor of 2.19. As an application of this phenomenon, an optical deflector driven at low power for the TM guided mode is realized. © 2001 Scripta Technica, Electron Comm Jpn Pt 2, 84(5): 46–54, 2001
Collaborations will impact future international recruitment and enrollment
Authors: Dennis Marguerite J.
Published: November 2023

Most colleges and universities, seeking to recruit international students, use individual international recruiters as well as agents to enroll students worldwide.
Evaluation of risk factors for cytomegalovirus DNAemia after end of regular prophylaxis after heart transplantation
Authors: Immohr Moritz Benjamin , Oehler Daniel , Jenkins Freya Sophie , Kalampokas Nikolas , Hettlich Vincent Hendrik , Sigetti Dennis , Voß Fabian , Dalyanoglu Hannan , Aubin Hug , Akhyari Payam , Lichtenberg Artur , Boeken Udo
Published: November 2023

Background

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infections after heart transplantation (HTx) can cause cardiac allograft vasculopathy. Consequently, monitoring and prophylaxis for cytomegalovirus deoxyribonucleic acid (CMV‐DNAemia) within the first weeks after HTx is recommended.

Methods

All patients who underwent HTx between September 2010 and 2021 surviving the first 90 days (n = 196) were retrospectively reviewed. The patients were divided on the prevalence of CMV‐DNAemia during the first postoperative year after the end of the prophylaxis. A total of n = 35 (20.1%) developed CMV‐DNAemia (CMV group) and were compared to patients without CMV‐DNAemia (controls, n = 139). The remaining patients (n = 22) were excluded due to incomplete data.

Results

Positive donors and negative recipients (D+/R−) and negative donors and positive recipients (D−/R+) serology was significantly increased and D−/R− decreased in the CMV group (p < .01). Furthermore, the mean age was 57.7 ± 8.7 years but only 53.6 ± 10.0 years for controls (p = .03). Additionally, the intensive care unit (p = .02) and total hospital stay (p = .03) after HTx were approximately 50% longer. Interestingly, the incidence of CMV‐DNAemia during prophylaxis was only numerically increased in the CMV group (5.7%, respectively, 0.7%, p = .10), the same effect was also observed for postoperative infections. Multivariate analyses confirmed that D+/R− and D−/R+ CMV immunoglobulin G match were independent risk factors for postprophylaxis CMV‐DNAemia.

Conclusion

Our data should raise awareness of CMV‐DNAemia after the termination of regular prophylaxis, as this affects one in five HTx patients. Especially old recipients as well as D+/R− and D−/R+ serology share an elevated risk of late CMV‐DNAemia. For these patients, prolongation, or repetition of CMV prophylaxis, including antiviral drugs and CMV immunoglobulins, may be considered.
Book Review
Authors: Benoff Susan
Published: November 2023

Handbook of In Vitro Fertilization, edited by Alan O. Trounson and David K. Gardner
Morphology of Testicular Spermatozoa Obtained by Testicular Sperm Extraction in Obstructive and Nonobstructive Azoospermic Men and Its Relation to Fertilization Success in the In Vitro Fertilization—Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection System
Authors: YAVETZ HAIM , YOGEV LEAH , KLEIMAN SANDRA , BOTCHAN AMNON , HAUSER RON , LESSING JOSEPH B. , PAZ GEDALIA , GAMZU RONNI
Published: November 2023

ABSTRACT: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the morphology of testicular spermatozoa by 3 different determinants. Sperm cells were obtained and their morphology was evaluated from 27 testicular sperm extraction (TESE) operations, of which 20 men had nonobstructive azoospermia and 7 had obstructive azoospermia. In 17 cases, 2 biopsies were obtained from 2 different locations of the testis. Only mature spermatozoa presenting full‐grown tail (tail dimension about 10‐fold greater than the head dimension) were counted. Three characteristics of sperm morphology were evaluated: head dimensions, and acrosome and midpiece irregularities. The percentage of sperm cells with normal morphology (considering the 3 characteristics) in specimens from patients with obstructive and nonobstructive azoospermia were 47% ± 4.6% and 29 ± 1.8%, respectively (P < .01). The percentage of spermatozoa with normal head dimensions were 76% ± 3.2% and 63% ± 2.6% (P > .05), those with normal acrosome were 58% ± 4.6% and 41% ± 3.4% (P < .05), and those with normal midpiece were 74% ± 4.1% and 67% ± 1.6% (P > .05), in obstructive and nonobstructive azoospermia, respectively. No significant differences were observed in sperm morphology between different locations of the testis. Sperm morphological characteristics were not associated with fertilization rate in intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). Follicle‐stimulation hormone and luteinizing hormone were inversely correlated with normal morphology of testicular spermatozoa (r = ±0.49 and r = ±0.47, respectively; P < .05). It can be concluded that a relatively high portion of testicular sperm are morphologically normal. The higher rate of normal spermatozoa in obstructive azoospermia compared with nonobstructive spermatozoa suggests that the factors leading to azoospermia may affect testicular sperm morphology. The morphological characteristics of testicular sperm do not affect fertilization rate in ICSI.
Dual Energy Metabolism‐Dependent Effect of Ureaplasma urealyticum Infection on Sperm Activity
Authors: REICHART MALKA , LEVI HAYA , KAHANE ITZHAK , BARTOOV BENJAMIN
Published: November 2023

ABSTRACT: Genital Ureaplasma urealyticum infection is considered a sexually transmitted infection. It has long been debated whether the presence of U urealyticum in semen may be a possible cause of infertility. Long‐term incubation (4 hours or overnight) of sperm cells with U urealyticum in vitro resulted in a significant inhibition of sperm motility and membrane alteration whereas a short incubation (45 minutes) of sperm cells with ureaplasmas resulted in an acceleration of sperm velocity. The aim of this study was to understand these contradictory reports of U urealyticum infection on sperm motility. Spermatozoa from fresh ejaculates of normozoospermic semen of men who were referred to the university Male Fertility Laboratory for semen analysis, with no history of genital tract infection, and from normal Assaf breed rams were infected in vitro with U urealyticum serotype 8, at different pHs and O2 concentrations. Sperm viability and motility and changes in extracellular pH were evaluated. A significant (16%–43%) increase in sperm activity was observed upon infection at alkaline pH (7.8) under aerobic or hypoxic conditions, and a 58% increase was observed under anaerobic conditions and pH 7.2. When the infection was conducted under aerobic conditions and acidic pH (6.3), or under hypoxic conditions at neutral pH (7.2), an 8%–25% inhibition of sperm activity was observed. These results indicate that when sperm activity depends on mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation, usually at low pHs, U urealyticum competes with mitochondrial energy production and therefore reduces sperm motility and viability. However, when sperm energy metabolism depends on glycolysis, usually at higher pHs, U urealyticum stimulates glycolysis and sperm activity.
Epidermal Growth Factor Modulates the Expression of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor in the Human Prostate
Authors: RAVINDRANATH NEELAKANTA , WION DIDIER , BRACHET PHILIPPE , DJAKIEW DANIEL
Published: November 2023

ABSTRACT: The growth and dissemination of tumors in the body has been associated with angiogenesis. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is an angiogenic factor that stimulates endothelial cell growth and enhances vascular permeability. VEGF exerts its action by binding to specific cell surface receptors. Three receptors, VEGFR‐1 (flt‐1), VEGFR‐2 (flk‐1), and VEGFR‐3 (flt‐4) have been identified. Very little information on the coordinated expression of VEGF and its receptors in normal prostate, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), and prostate carcinoma is available. Therefore, we examined the immunohistochemical localization of VEGF and its receptors in tissues derived from normal human prostate, BPH, and prostatic carcinoma. Immunostaining for VEGF was absent in the normal prostate. Epithelium lining the glands of prostate derived from patients with BPH exhibited strong immunostaining. The intensity of staining was relatively less in prostate carcinoma. It is interesting that VEGFR‐1 and VEGFR‐3 were strongly expressed in both stromal and epithelial tissues in normal prostate, BPH, and carcinoma. In comparison, VEGFR‐2 was not localized to normal prostate and its expression in the stroma of BPH and epithelium of carcinoma was very weak. Because progression of prostate cancer is accompanied by altered expression of epidermal growth factor (EGF) and its receptor (EGFR) in malignant cells, we investigated the effect of EGF on VEGF gene expression by Northern blot analysis in 2 human prostate cancer cell lines that express EGFR. EGF greatly enhanced the expression of VEGF messenger RNA in DU145 and PC3 cell lines in a dose‐dependent manner. The EGF induction of VEGF gene expression suggests a mechanism by which angiogenesis could be accelerated in BPH and prostate carcinoma.
Regulation of Caltrin mRNA Expression by Androgens in the Murine Prostate
Authors: MIROSEVICH JANNI , BENTEL JACQUELINE M. , DAWKINS HUGH J. S.
Published: November 2023

ABSTRACT: Testicular androgens induce the proliferation and differentiation of prostatic epithelial cells by regulating the expression of androgen target genes. The use of subtractive hybridization to isolate genes that are differentially expressed during the early phase of an‐drogeninduced prostatic regrowth in castrated mice resulted in identification of the murine caltrin gene. Caltrin messenger RNA (mRNA) was highly expressed in the prostates of intact mice. Five weeks following castration of mice, steady state caltrin mRNA levels were reduced by 70%. Within 12 hours of administration of pharmacological doses of testosterone enanthate, steady state caltrin mRNA levels were elevated and increased to 90% of levels found in intact mice by 24 hours. Reverse transcriptase—polymerase chain reaction analysis of prostate tissue localized caltrin mRNA transcripts to the dorsal but not the ventral or lateral prostate. Within the dorsal prostate, in situ hybridization always localized caltrin mRNAs to the prostatic epithelial cells. Testosterone‐induced increases in caltrin mRNA levels were detected prior to S‐phase progression and initiation of proliferation in this cell population. Caltrin has been demonstrated previously to function as a calcium transport inhibitor at the plasma membrane. Findings of this study indicate that caltrin is highly expressed and androgen‐regulated in the murine prostate, where it is associated with androgen‐induced proliferation and differentiation of epithelial cells.
Leptin Secretion From the Epididymal Fat Pad Is Increased by the Sexual Maturation of the Male Rat
Authors: NAZIAN STANLEY J.
Published: November 2023

ABSTRACT: Although leptin has been implicated as an important factor in triggering the onset of puberty in females, much less is known about the role of this adipose tissue hormone in the sexual maturation of males. Previous work in the rat has suggested that the peripubertal rise in testosterone precedes an increase in leptin secretion, and it has been suggested that the testosterone rise induces the leptin increase. These studies examined some of the interactions between leptin secretion and the peripubertal testosterone rise in male rats. Serum leptin concentrations were significantly elevated in young adult male rats compared with immature rats. Cultured epididymal fat pads obtained from adult animals secreted significantly more leptin than did those obtained from immature rats. Castration of immature rats with or without testosterone replacement for 1 week did not result in a significant change in either the serum leptin concentrations or the ability of the epididymal fat pad to secrete leptin. Exposure of epididymal fat to 5 ng/mL of testosterone in vitro resulted in a significantly enhanced secretion of leptin into the media compared with plain media controls. These results confirmed that there is an increase in serum leptin concentrations with sexual maturation in the male rat. They also suggest that this increase is due to an enhanced ability of adipose tissue to secrete leptin. Within a normal physiologic range, testosterone may play a role in inducing this increased ability to secrete leptin.
Evaluation of Flow Cytometric Methods to Measure Human Sperm Concentration
Authors: EUSTACHE F. , JOUANNET P. , AUGER J.
Published: November 2023

ABSTRACT: Human sperm concentration is usually assessed using hemocytometry (HM). However, external and internal quality control schemes have shown that the accuracy of this method is low overall. Flow cytometry (FC) is a rapid, accurate, and reproducible technology for the quantification of various cell populations. We used 3 FC methods for human sperm counting from a 1:1 mixture of a diluted semen sample with a suspension of fluorospheres of known concentrations. The events that represented sperm cells were detected according to 1) gating on size and granularity (FCM1), 2) gating on DNA staining by propidium iodide (FCM2), and 3) a combination of FCM1 and FCM2 (FCM3). Sperm concentration was calculated from the ratio of detected events to fluorosphere counts and fluorosphere concentration. A pilot study undertaken by 12 technicians from different laboratories to compare FCM1 with HM showed a general agreement between both methods, despite wide variations in sperm concentration exhibited by HM due to the use of unoptimized procedures. A second experiment indicated that the overall variability in sperm concentration assessment by FCM1 was lower than that produced by HM when performed by 2 technicians using optimal procedures for 3 preparations of the same semen samples. The overall mean coefficients of variation were 3.9% for FCM1 vs 8.0% for technician 1, 12.3% for technician 2 (P < .05), and 15.7% for both technicians (P < .05). FCM1, FCM2, and FCM3 were compared with HM performed by a single trained technician for 39 semen samples (triplicates) of various quality. Compared with HM, FCM1 and FCM2 overestimated the sperm concentration by 14% and 8%, respectively, against only 4% per million sperm for FCM3, which was effective for the full spectrum of sperm concentrations (except azoospermia). In conclusion, this study demonstrates that human sperm concentration can be accurately assessed by the FC method combining gating on cell size, granularity, and DNA staining.
Immortalized Testis Cell Lines From Estrogen Receptor (ER) α Knock‐Out and Wild‐Type Mice Expressing Functional ERα or ERβ
Authors: MUELLER STEFAN O. , KORACH KENNETH S.
Published: November 2023

ABSTRACT: The surprising findings that male mice lacking the estrogen receptor (ER) α (αERKO) have atrophic testis and are infertile proved that ERα is involved in normal testicular function. To obtain compatible in vitro model systems for αERKO male mice, we immortalized different cell lines from the testis of αERKO and wild‐type (C57BL/6) mice with the human papilloma virus E6/E7 genes. The established cell lines were characterized for Sertoli, Leydig, and peritubular cell markers by means of messenger RNA expression and functional assays. One wild‐type‐derived cell line showed Leydig cell‐specific marker gene expression and produced testosterone after stimulation with cyclic adenosine monophosphate. Most wild‐type cell lines expressed androgen receptor and a functional ERa as shown by high estrogenic activity in a luciferase‐based transactivation assay. Most notably, the wild‐type‐derived WL3, and the ES4 cell line derived from αERKO mice expressed ERβ and showed ER‐mediated transcriptional activity, but no ERα protein expression. These cell lines with and without functional ERα or ERβ enable the analyses of ER subtype‐specific responses and their function in testicular cell signaling, morphogenesis, and neoplasia.
Immunomagnetic Isolation and Long‐Term Culture of Mouse Type A Spermatogonia
Authors: van der WEE KATHY S. , JOHNSON ERIC W. , DIRAMI GHENIMA , DYM MARTIN , HOFMANN MARIE‐CLAUDE
Published: November 2023

ABSTRACT: In the mammalian testis, type A spermatogonia proliferate and differentiate into sperm under the tight control of both endocrine and paracrine factors. In order to study the complex process of spermatogenesis at the molecular level, an in vitro system must be devised in which type A spermatogonia can be cultured for a prolonged period of time. Therefore, cocultures including type A spermatogonia and Sertoli cells, which act as nurse cells to the developing germ cells, are desirable. We have developed a method for the specific isolation of type A spermatogonia using magnetic beads and antibodies that recognize the c‐kit receptor or the homophilic adhesion molecule, Ep‐CAM. Purified spermatogonia could survive for a period of 25 days when cocultivated on Sertoli cell monolayers. Moreover, we recently established Sertoli cell lines that produce growth factors that are essential for the maintenance of spermatogonia in a proliferative state. Some of these Sertoli cell lines are able to reorganize into tubular structures when cultivated on a layer of Matrigel as extracellular matrix. We show here that type A spermatogonia associate specifically with the Sertoli cell tubules, and are able to replicate their DNA in this environment. Thus, these in vitro culture systems could be used for the long‐term culture of primary, nonimmortalized type A spermatogonia.
Efficacy and Safety of Sildenafil Citrate for Treatment of Erectile Dysfunction in a Population With Associated Organic Risk Factors
Authors: GUAY ANDRÉ T. , PEREZ JESUS B. , JACOBSON JERILYNN , NEWTON ROBERT A.
Published: November 2023

ABSTRACT: The objective of this study was to determine the efficacy and safety of sildenafil in patients with erectile dysfunction (ED) and associated organic risk factors in a multispecialty clinic. Patients (n = 521) were diagnosed with ED based on self‐assessment. Associated risk factors were managed by medication or lifestyle modifications, or both, before treatment with sildenafil for ED. Patients received a 50‐mg dose of sildenafil that could be adjusted to 100 mg or 25 mg based on tolerability and efficacy. Patients recorded the number of successful intercourse encounters for 6 to 8 weeks, and the number of adverse events. Overall, there was an 82% successful intercourse rate with sildenafil treatment. The predominant associated risk factors for ED were hypertension (39%), hypogonadism (37%), and multiple medications (34%). Common adverse events due to sildenafil treatment were mild to moderate in nature and resulted in <2% patient discontinuation. Clinicians should be particularly careful to evaluate patients presenting with ED because the condition can be accompanied by a wide spectrum of risk factors requiring monitoring and treatment. However, with adequate treatment and control of these risk factors, the use of sildenafil in a representative population of men with ED in a multispecialty clinic can achieve a higher efficacy rate than previous studies have indicated.
Characterization of the Fertility of Male Aromatase Knockout Mice
Authors: ROBERTSON KIRSTEN M. , SIMPSON EVAN R. , LACHAM‐KAPLAN ORLY , JONES MARGARET E.E.
Published: November 2023

ABSTRACT: Previous studies employing the male aromatase knockout (ArKO) mouse have indicated that local expression of estrogens appears to be important for the progression of spermatogenesis. In the absence of estrogen biosynthesis round spermatids are observed to undergo apoptosis and thus fail to differentiate into mature, elongated spermatids. This lesion appears to arise between the ages of 18 weeks and 1 year. To ultimately determine if the disruption to spermatogenesis arises earlier than 18 weeks, we performed an intensive study to examine the fertility of younger male ArKO mice. This involved an analysis of their mating capacity together with an extensive stereological analysis, determination of the in vitro potential of mature sperm, and sexual behavior. ArKO and wild‐type (w/t) males at 7 weeks of age were placed with w/t females for 7 weeks. At age 14 weeks, the males were killed and the testes removed. ArKO mice were observed to sire significantly fewer litters than the w/t mice; 5 out of the 10 sired no litters at all. Stereological analysis performed on the removed testes found a significant decrease in round spermatid numbers between w/t and ArKO mice at this age; however, there were no differences in all other germ cells and Sertoli cell numbers. When mature spermatozoa were analyzed, sperm from 15‐week‐old ArKO mice had a significant reduction in motility. This was further reduced by 1 year of age with a decrease in concentration. A preliminary examination of sexual behavior found that ArKO mice did not attempt to mount the females, in contrast to the w/t mice, which mounted consistently during the time period. In conclusion, we observed that ArKO mice have reduced fertility at age 14 weeks. This may be due in part to a disruption in spermatogenesis because the phenotype does appear to arise earlier than 18 weeks, possibly leading to abnormalities in the mature spermatozoa. Or, in part, this may be attributable to an impairment in the development of copulatory behavior, which is consistent with the available evidence that points to a crucial role for estrogens in the neural development and initiation of male sexual behavior.