bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Evaluation and dynamic mechanism of green low-carbon transformation of agriculture in Yangtze River Delta region
Authors: Li Zhikun , Zhao Dandan , Yan Haixiang 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
To break through the development dilemma of traditional agriculture, the green and low-carbon transformation of agriculture (GLCTA) has gradually become a key engine to drive the construction of ‘dual carbon’ targets and the strategy of agricultural green development. Based on the panel data of 41 cities in the Yangtze River Delta (YRD) from 2010 to 2021, this study estimates the level of GLCTA in each city, discusses its spatiotemporal evolution characteristics, and uses the spatial panel error model and the geodetector model to reveal the dynamic mechanism of GLCTA process. The results show the following: (1) The overall level of GLCTA in the YRD shows a steady upward trend from 2010 to 2021, but the overall development level is low and the room for improvement is large. The development level of different cities differs greatly, showing a general situation of ‘high in the east and low in the west’, and the high level of GLCTA continues to deepen to the west. (2) The GLCTA in the YRD has spatial dependence and spatial spillover effect, and the number of cities with high–high and Low–Low development level is relatively large. (3) Except the urbanization level and the degree of rural industrialization that negatively affect the level of GLCTA in the YRD, other dynamic factors have a positive effect. Among them, the influence of fiscal support policy and economic level on the GLCTA is increasing. This paper discusses the current situation and dynamic mechanism of GLCTA in the YRD, which is innovative in terms of research content and perspective, and puts forward corresponding policy suggestions to promote GLCTA, providing important insights and practical basis for researchers and implementers in related fields.
Antifungal activity of bamemacrolactine C against Talaromyces marneffei and its possible mechanisms of action
Authors: Jiang Cuiping , Feng Guangfu , Wang Zhou , Liu Kai , Qu Xinjian , Liu Yonghong , Yi Xiangxi , Gao Chenghai 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Aims
The present study aims to investigate the in vitro antifungal activity and mechanism of action of bamemacrolactine C (BAC), a new 24-membered macrolide compound, against Talaromyces marneffei.

Methods and results
The test drug BAC initially demonstrated antifungal activity through a paper disk diffusion assay, followed by determination of the minimum inhibitory concentration value of 35.29 μg ml−1 using microdilution. The association study revealed that combination therapy exhibited additive effects (0.5 &lt; FICI &lt; 1.0) when combined BAC with either amphotericin B or fluconazole. A time-growth assay confirmed that treatment with 35.29 μg ml−1 of BAC completely inhibited the growth of T. marneffei and exhibited antifungal effects. Micromorphological analysis using scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy photomicrographs revealed that BAC treatment induced morphological damage in fungal cells compared to the control group. Transmembrane protein assays showed a significant reduction in the levels of Na+/K+-ATPase (P &lt; .05) and Ca2+-ATPase (P &lt; .01) compared to the control group. Intracellular enzyme assays demonstrated that BAC treatment significantly decreased ATP, malate dehydrogenase, and succinate dehydrogenase content (P &lt; .01). The combination of proteomics and parallel reaction monitoring (PRM) verification indicated that BAC exhibits an antifungal mechanism against T. marneffei by downregulating ATP citric acid lyase (ACLY) levels , potentially affecting the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle. Besides, the binding model of BAC and the ACLY also shows a good docking score.

Conclusions
The findings suggest that BAC exhibits antifungal activity against T. marneffei, elucidating its multifaceted mechanism of action involving disruption of cell membranes’ integrity and inhibition of intracellular enzyme activities, in which the modulation of ACLY in the TCA cycle may play an important role.
Formal but Local Transitional Justice: Memorialization of the Missing by Local Government in Nepal
Authors: Bhandari Ram Kumar , Robins Simon 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
This article explores how the families of the disappeared in Nepal, in the absence of any substantive state-led transitional justice process, have mobilized to created victim groups to drive local political and social engagements with violations of the decade long internal conflict. Victims’ groups have informally memorialized their missing relatives and ultimately successfully advocated with local government to advance local memorialization through official processes. Victim-led memory practices have had an impact on local government policy, and these serve to enhance the role of victim groups as agents of social change. Using case studies from two local authorities as examples, we seek to highlight how localized memory practices empower and mobilize victims, advancing their role as political and social actors in processes of social change and blurring the conceptual division between state and community-led process. This article seeks to challenge the longstanding conflation of ‘local’ and ‘informal’ (meaning initiated and led by non-state actors) to describe the transitional justice process, by showing how when led by local authorities, this process can both empower victims and challenge impunity at the federal level.
Fashion first: Buckle Ballerina shoes recognized as applied art under Danish copyright law
Authors: Kohli Vishv Priya 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
The case was a copyright infringement dispute between the Danish fashion house Ganni A/S and the American company Steve Madden Ltd. The Danish Maritime and Commercial Court held that Ganni A/S’s Buckle Ballerina shoes qualify as original works of applied art and are therefore, capable of copyright protection.
Benchmarks of success in radiotherapy vs systemic therapy: National Clinical Trials Network (NCTN) randomized controlled trials sponsored by the National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Authors: Sanford Nina N , Shi Qian , Hein David M , Hall William A 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background
The National Clinical Trials Network (NCTN) is the largest government-sponsored organization in the United States; it is tasked with funding randomized controlled trials in oncology. It is unknown whether there are differences in study design by treatment modality. We evaluated differences in methodology between trials testing radiation therapy (RT) vs systemic therapy.

Methods
The Clinical Trials Support Unit website was used to identify active randomized controlled trials of systemic therapy or RT across NCTN cooperative groups through December 31, 2023. Studies in disease sites with more than 5 RT trials were included. Each trial’s protocol was reviewed to obtain key design information that was descriptively compared: primary endpoint, hypothesis testing type (superiority vs noninferiority), noninferiority margin, hypothesized effect size, power, and statistical significance level.

Results
A total of 186 randomized controlled trials (142 systemic therapy, 44 RT) were examined. Comparing primary endpoints, 59.1% vs 26.8% of RT vs systemic therapy trials, respectively, had a primary endpoint of overall survival. Nearly one-third (31.2%) of RT trials were noninferiority vs 6.3% of systemic therapy trials. Among breast cancer trials, 75% of RT studies were noninferiority vs 11.1% systemic therapy. Target effect size, power, and statistical significance level were similar by treatment modality within tumor types and disease settings.

Conclusion
Among NCTN cooperative group randomized controlled trials, there were marked differences in study design between RT vs systemic therapy trials. A higher benchmark for defining success for RT interventions was observed, with greater emphasis on overall survival as the primary endpoint. This finding may reflect differences in therapeutic mechanism by modality and types of study questions posed.
The relationship between air lead and blood lead in a modern US lead-acid battery facility: a longitudinal study
Authors: Li Wenchao , Chien Jiayang , Cohen Joel M 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Objectives: To date there has been little observational evidence on the relationship between air lead and blood lead at relatively low workplace air lead concentrations. This study sought to improve upon prior studies methodologically and aimed to examine this relationship in a modern workplace environment.
Methods: Personal measurements of air lead and blood lead concentrations were collected in a modern lead-acid battery manufacturing facility in the United States. A total of 236 workers and their 2221 air-blood lead measurement pairs, collected between 2001 and 2021, were included in the statistical analysis. The association between air lead and blood lead was examined using linear mixed-effects models to account for data correlation. Potential confounders adjusted for included age, sex, job department, time trend, tenure, and seasonality.
Results: The workers were mostly (83%) male and on average 29.75 years of age at the first included measurement. Their air lead concentrations ranged from 1 to 50 (arithmetic mean 16.85) μg/m3; blood lead concentrations ranged from 2 to 35 (arithmetic mean 15.47) μg/dL. After adjusting for potential confounders, a 1 μg/m3 increment in air lead was associated with a 0.025 (95% CI, 0.005-0.045; marginal, semi-partial ${R}^2$ = 0.002) μg/dL higher blood lead.
Conclusions: The relationship between air lead and blood lead at relatively low workplace air lead concentrations over a long employment period may be very weak, but this needs to be further investigated in future observational studies with quantified lead exposures from noninhalation routes and nonoccupational sources.
Development of the Job-Related Uncertainty Stress Scale for Platform Workers
Authors: Zheng Yonglin , Cheung Francis , Luo Hongchen , Xu Heng , Li Chen , Wu Dan 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Objectives: This study reports the development of the Job-Related Uncertainty Stress Scale for Platform Workers (JUSSPW) and examines its reliability and validity.
Methods: The research was conducted in 2 phases. In Study 1, item analysis and exploratory factor analysis were conducted on data from 343 platform riders (males: 321; females: 22; mean (SD) age: 27.03 (6.67) years) in Guangzhou, China. In Study 2, an additional 391 platform riders (males: 328; females: 63; mean (SD) age: 30.36 (4.49) years) were recruited. This phase involved conducting confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and assessing criterion-related validity by using the Uncertainty Stress Scale (USS-4), Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI), and Job Satisfaction Inventory (JSI).
Results: The JUSSPW scale comprises 8 items under a unidimensional structure, covering 4 perspectives: work environment, interpersonal relationships, industry-specific characteristics, and personal development prospects; it explained 71.07% of the total variance. CFA results indicated that this 1-factor model provided a good fit (χ2/df = 2.681, Root Mean Square Error of Approximation (RMSEA) = 0.066, Comparative Fit Index (CFI) = 0.987, Incremental Fit Index (IFI) = 0.987, Goodness of Fit Index (GFI) = 0.964, Tucker-Lewis Index (TLI) = 0.982). This scale also demonstrated good convergent (Average Variance Extracted (AVE) = 0.668, Composite Reliability (CR) = 0.941) and criterion validity (area under the curve = 0.935). The total score of JUSSPW was significantly positively correlated with the USS-4 and Maslach Burnout Inventory-Emotional Exhaustion (MBI-EE) scores, and remarkably negatively correlated with the JSI scores. Cronbach α and split-half reliability were .939 and 0.935, respectively.
Conclusions: These results suggest that this scale shows good reliability and validity and can be used as a sound measure to capture platform workers’ job-related uncertainty stress. Limitation and implications are discussed.
(018) CUFF CONUNDRUM: INFLATABLE PENILE PROTHESIS PLACEMENT IN MEN FOLLOWING TRANSCORPORAL ARTIFICIAL URINARY SPHINCTER
Authors: Ungerer G , Seyer A , Pinkhasov A , Ziegelmann M , Kohler T , Elliott D 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Concerns exist when inflatable penile prosthesis (IPP) surgery is performed following transcorporal artificial urinary sphincter (TC-AUS) due to risk of damaging the AUS cuff during proximal corporal dilation and device placement. Aside from rare case reports, no data exists on outcomes and complications in patients who undergo IPP surgery with existing TC-AUS in place.

Objective
We aim to describe perioperative complications, infections, revision rates, and device longevity when IPP surgery is performed with existing TC-AUS in place.

Methods
A retrospective search was conducted to identify all patients who had undergone TC-AUS placement at a single institution from 2015-2023. Patients who had undergone IPP placement following TC-AUS at the same institution were identified. Operative technique for IPP placement was similar to standard IPP surgery with additional care taken to avoid the AUS device and preferential use of electrocautery over sharp dissection. Operatives notes and all patient encounters were reviewed, and data on demographics, operative details, perioperative complications, infections, revision rates, and device longevity were recorded.

Results
727 patients underwent TC-AUS placement from 2015-2023. Of these, 13 patients underwent subsequent IPP placement (fig. 1). All patients had history of prostatectomy, and 6 (46%) patients had prior radiation. The median follow-up after IPP was 31.7 months and the time gap between AUS and IPP averaged 18.3 months (range 2.3 to 56.7 months). Average operative time for IPP was 85 minutes (range 53 to 202 minutes). Reservoirs were all placed contralateral to the AUS reservoir to minimize risk of injury to the AUS device. 8 patients had a 12 Fr catheter left post-operatively for less than 24 hours. Proximal dilation was noted to be difficult in 2 patients (15%), both of which were successfully dilated without perforation or damage to the AUS cuff. No infections or erosions occurred. 3 patients (23%) developed mechanical failure at a mean time of 28.7 months following IPP placement (36.5 months after AUS). Cuff leak was identified in 2 patients and the third has yet to undergo revision surgery to determine etiology.

Conclusions
IPP placement appears safe and effective in men who have previously undergone TC-AUS without increased risk of infection or device erosion. Care should be taken when dilating proximally, though proximal dilation was uneventful in most patients. Mechanical failure rates may be slightly higher compared to patients who have either device alone, and patients should be counseled accordingly.

Disclosure
No.
(063) VARIABILITY IN THE REFERENCE VALUES OF TESTOSTERONE, ITS MEASUREMENT METHODOLOGY, AND THE ASSOCIATED COSTS ACROSS LABORATORIES
Authors: Reyes-Vallejo LA , Gonzalez-Carranza HR 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Hypogonadism is defined as the gonadal failure resulting in an impaired steroid hormone production. The classic causes of male androgen deficiency are hyperprolactinemia, pituitary macroadenoma, endogenous Cushing syndrome and iron overload syndrome. Klinefelter syndrome and mild traumatic injury might also be a common cause of androgen deficiency. According to EAA guidelines, the diagnosis of hypogonadism should be based on both the presence of clinical symptoms and a low serum total testosterone. The diagnosis of hypogonadism can be complicated by the limited availability of laboratories capable of measuring testosterone, the variable reference ranges, and the costs of the test.

Objective
Investigate the variations in the normal range of testosterone levels reported by laboratories, as well as elucidate their corresponding methodologies of measurement and costs.

Methods
Telephone interviews were conducted with two hundred laboratories regarding the method they use for testosterone measurement, their reference parameters, and the cost of the assay.

Results
From the total of laboratories interviewed, only one hundred sixty of them measured total testosterone. One hundred sixteen were private laboratories, thirty-four laboratories were part of public hospitals and ten belonged to private hospitals. Sixty-six laboratories used chemiluminescence to determine testosterone, twenty-five used electrochemiluminescence, thirty-eight laboratories were unable to describe the method they use. The low reference value for total testosterone ranged from 84 to 668 ng/dL (795% difference), and the upper value ranged from 400 to 2562 ng/dL (640% difference). The average cost of testosterone testing is $35, with a maximum of $160 and a minimum of $9.

Conclusions
The great variability in testosterone measurement methods, the reference ranges of each laboratory and their costs mean greater difficulty in establishing the diagnosis of hypogonadism.

Disclosure
No.
(070) CLOMIPHENE’S EFFICACY IN TREATING MALE HYPOGONADISM: A RETROSPECTIVE ANALYSIS OF TESTOSTERONE LEVELS, SYMPTOM IMPROVEMENT, AND SAFETY PROFILE
Authors: Boyne A , Fleming B , La T , Desai S , Saffati G , Orozco Rendon D , Khera M 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Hypogonadism in men can significantly impact quality of life. Clomiphene is a selective estrogen receptor modulator used to induce ovulation by increasing luteinizing (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels. While testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is a common treatment, clomiphene citrate has emerged as an alternative approach. However, there is a paucity of data regarding its clinical effectiveness.

Objective
We sought to determine the efficacy of clomiphene in improving testosterone levels and hypogonadal symptoms in patients at our institution.

Methods
Patients treated with clomiphene were for hypogonadal symptoms were retrospectively identified from a single institution database. Total serum testosterone and estradiol were compared before and after treatment with clomiphene using two-tailed student’s t-test for paired analyses and Welches t-test for unpaired analyses. Odds ratios (OR) for adverse events were calculated using the Fisher-exact test.

Results
76 men (mean age 37.5 years) presenting with hypogonadism (28.9%), infertility (32.9%), or other symptoms of low energy or libido (38.2%) were prescribed clomiphene by sexual medicine specialists at our institution. Mean total testosterone measured at the first visit and last follow up were 320.93 ± 247.38 ng/dL and 568.30 ± 438.69 ng/dL respectively (p &lt; 0.001). Patients noted improvement of ED (75.9%), libido (74.6%), energy (82%), weight (60.0%), muscle mass (67.4%), and depressive symptoms (31.3%) following administration of clomiphene. Mean estradiol measured at the first visit and last follow up were 27.31 ± 15.11 pg/mL and 34.51 ± 22.11 pg/dL respectively (p = 0.02). Men undergoing treatment with clomiphene alone (n = 42, 55.3%) had significantly lower rates of polycythemia than those undergoing treatment with testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) and clomiphene (n = 34, 44.7%) (OR 0.096 (95% confidence interval: 0.002–0.813)).

Conclusions
Our study suggests the efficacy of clomiphene for treatment of male patients presenting with hypogonadal symptoms as measured by both serum testosterone levels and reported symptom improvement. Clomiphene use alone or in combination with TRT was associated with increased estradiol levels in this patient cohort. The data supports the potential benefits of clomiphene to treat hypogonadal symptoms in select patients.

Disclosure
Any of the authors act as a consultant, employee or shareholder of an industry for: Disclosures: Consultant for AbbVie, Marius, Tolmar, Endo, Petros, Boston Scientific, Coloplast, Halozyme Investor: Sprout.
(083) FDA HUMAN STUDY TRIAL ON THE SEALED VASECTOMY PROCEDURE APPEARS TO BE SAFE AND EFFECTIVE
Authors: Mutter M , Jones L , Henry G 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Introduction
The Sealed Vasectomy Procedure (SVP) is a new bipolar radiofrequency sealing tool for transdermal vasectomy in hopes of making the procedure a faster, simpler, and safer office procedure. Testing has been successful in animal models with excellent wound healing, complete vas occlusion on histology, and no sperm in post procedural semen analysis. In this next step of device testing, we present our initial human data.

Objective
Evaluate the safety and effectiveness of the SVP in sealing the vas deferens in humans.

Methods
After FDA and IRB approval, 8 male patients were enrolled in the trial. Pre-procedure semen analysis was performed to ensure sperm present for each participant. Each then underwent office-based, minimally invasive vasectomy using Signati Separo device, with treatment occurring outside of the scrotum/skin. They were then seen at 30 days post-procedure with plans for a 3 month and 6 month post-procedure office visit and semen analysis to collect efficacy and further safety data.

Results
To date, 6 of the 8 patients have undergone sealed vasectomy procedure. Mean procedure time was 19.05 minutes while mean sealing time was 3.58 seconds per vas deferens. All patients had sealing and separation of each vas deferens as confirmed by the treating provider. Only one 30 day pain score was greater than zero (1). No patient has experienced an adverse event to date. Five out of six pathology specimens noted complete obliteration of the lumen with the remaining noting complete transection. Post-procedure semen analyses are currently pending for all patients.

Conclusions
Based on our limited human data to date, Signati sealed vasectomy procedure appears to be safe and effective in performing vasectomies in humans.

Disclosure
Any of the authors act as a consultant, employee or shareholder of an industry for: Signati Medical.