bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Stress triggering and future seismic hazards implied by four large earthquakes in the Pamir from 2015 to 2023 revealed by Sentinel-1 radar interferometry
Authors: Liu Zhenjiang , Li Zhenhong , Yu Chen , Zhang Xuesong , Peng Jianbing 
Published: March 2024

SUMMARY
The Mw 6.8 Murghob earthquake is the third earthquake in an Mw 6.4+ sequence occurring in the Pamir initiated by the 2015 Sarez Mw 7.2 earthquake. It is of great significance to investigate their interactions and to assess future seismic hazards in the region. In this paper, we use Sentinel-1 radar interferometric data to retrieve coseismic deformation, invert for the slip distributions of the four events, and then investigate their interactions. The cumulative Coulomb failure stress changes (ΔCFS) suggest that the 2023 Murghob earthquake was promoted by the three prior earthquakes in the sequence. Pre-stress from historical earthquakes is a key factor in explaining the triggering mechanism of the two 2016 Mw 6.4+ earthquakes. Stress loading and unloading effects on major faults in the region indicate that future attention should be paid in (1) the segment of the Sarez-Karakul fault north of the Kokuibel Valley, (2) the segment of the Sarez-Murghab thrust fault west of the Sarez-Karakul fault and (3) the east segments of the Pamir thrust fault system, all with a large positive ΔCFS.
Spatial distribution of mid-lower crustal flow in the SE Tibetan Plateau revealed by P-wave velocity and azimuthal anisotropy beneath the Lijiang–Xiaojinhe fault and its vicinity
Authors: Dong Guiju , Liu Shaolin , Sun Kailin , Yang Dinghui , Li Mengyang , Wang Wenshuai , Chang Kai 
Published: March 2024

SUMMARY
The Lijiang–Xiaojinhe fault (LXF) and its vicinity are located in the transition zone among the Tibetan Plateau (TP), the South China block and the Indochina block. Researchers believe that this area has acted as a key tectonic zone during the evolution of the TP. Owing to the continuous growth and SE-ward expansion of the TP, the LXF and its vicinity have experienced intense deformation. Although different models, such as the rigid block extrusion and mid-lower crustal flow models, have been proposed to explain this intense deformation, a consensus has not yet been achieved. To better understand the deformation of the LXF and its vicinity, a high-resolution image of the subsurface structure must be constructed. In this study, we construct images of P-wave velocity and azimuthal anisotropy structures by using an eikonal equation-based traveltime tomography method. We collect high-quality seismic data from 276 broad-band seismic stations and manually pick a total of 48 037 first arrivals for the tomography study. Our tomographic results reveal a strong low-velocity body below the LXF and its vicinity. In addition, a strong azimuthal anisotropy structure with an N–S-oriented fast velocity direction is distributed along the low-velocity body. These features indicate the occurrence of mid-lower crustal flow, that penetrates across the LXF and extends to the Dianzhong block (DZB). In addition, we find obvious low-velocity perturbations in the mid-lower crust and uppermost mantle beneath the DZB. The low velocities may be attributed to the upwelling of hot materials from the upper mantle. We consider the limited distribution of mid-lower crustal flow on the margin of the SE TP, and mid-lower crustal flow may not play a significant role in the expansion of the TP.
Early developments of psychiatric epidemiology in Chile: a local history with global implications
Authors: Mascayano Franco , Cuadra-Malinarich Gonzalo , Almeida-Filho Naomar , Susser Ezra 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
This viewpoint discusses a conference paper titled: “Epidemiological research on mental morbidity in Chile”, which summarizes a handful of studies from 1950s in Chile covering conditions such as alcoholism, psychosis, epilepsy, and neurosis. These were the first psychiatric epidemiological population studies conducted in the Southern hemisphere, but they are largely unknown globally. We argue that the Chilean studies have important implications for modern psychiatric epidemiology, as well as for related fields such as global mental health and mental health services research. This piece starts by describing the general sociopolitical context and presenting the main methodological features of the studies. It focuses then on three specific implications for the field: 1) promoting decoloniality in psychiatric epidemiology; 2) ensuring methodological rigor and feasibility; and 3) informing the development of mental health policy and services.
Impact of CFTR Modulation on Pseudomonas aeruginosa Infection in People With Cystic Fibrosis
Authors: Ledger Emma L , Smith Daniel J , Teh Jing Jie , Wood Michelle E , Whibley Page E , Morrison Mark , Goldberg Joanna B , Reid David W , Wells Timothy J 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Background
Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a multidrug-resistant pathogen causing recalcitrant pulmonary infections in people with cystic fibrosis (pwCF). Cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) modulators have been developed that partially correct the defective chloride channel driving disease. Despite the many clinical benefits, studies in adults have demonstrated that while P. aeruginosa sputum load decreases, chronic infection persists. Here, we investigate how P. aeruginosa in pwCF may change in the altered lung environment after CFTR modulation.

Methods
P. aeruginosa strains (n = 105) were isolated from the sputum of 11 chronically colonized pwCF at baseline and up to 21 months posttreatment with elexacaftor-tezacaftor-ivacaftor or tezacaftor-ivacaftor. Phenotypic characterization and comparative genomics were performed.

Results
Clonal lineages of P. aeruginosa persisted after therapy, with no evidence of displacement by alternative strains. We identified commonly mutated genes among patient isolates that may be positively selected for in the CFTR-modulated lung. However, classic chronic P. aeruginosa phenotypes such as mucoid morphology were sustained, and isolates remained just as resistant to clinically relevant antibiotics.

Conclusions
Despite the clinical benefits of CFTR modulators, clonal lineages of P. aeruginosa persist that may prove just as difficult to manage in the future, especially in pwCF with advanced lung disease.
Functional and Immunologic Mapping of Domains of the Reticulocyte-Binding Protein Plasmodium vivax PvRBP2a
Authors: Tay Matthew Zirui , Tang Weiyi , Lee Wenn-Chyau , Ong Alice Soh Meoy , Novera Wisna , Malleret Benoît , Carissimo Guillaume , Chacko Ann-Marie , El-Sahili Abbas , Lescar Julien , Fan Yiping , McGready Rose M , Chu Cindy S , Chan Jerry Kok Yen , Ng Lisa F P , Russell Bruce , Nosten François , Rénia Laurent 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
We previously described a novel Plasmodium vivax invasion mechanism into human reticulocytes via the PvRBP2a-CD98 receptor-ligand pair. Using linear epitope mapping, we assessed the PvRBP2a epitopes involved in CD98 binding and recognized by antibodies from patients who were infected. We identified 2 epitope clusters mediating PvRBP2a-CD98 interaction. Cluster B (PvRBP2a431-448, TAALKEKGKLLANLYNKL) was the target of antibody responses in humans infected by P vivax. Peptides from each cluster were able to prevent live parasite invasion of human reticulocytes. These results provide new insights for development of a malaria blood-stage vaccine against P vivax.
Not surprising: a rebound in antibacterial consumption in Europe, with Cyprus and Greece on the podium
Authors: Spernovasilis Nikolaos , Tsioutis Constantinos 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Recent European-wide data place Cyprus and Greece in the highest positions of total antimicrobial consumption. While this level of consumption might be partly attributed to the high rates of infections due to MDR bacteria in these countries, several other reasons should be sought to help apply local measures, to decrease inappropriate and excess antimicrobial use. The present viewpoint aims to provide a roadmap for interventions, by briefly discussing the various factors that underlie antimicrobial use and prescribing practices in Greece and Cyprus.
Determination of fentanyl contamination on United States paper currency by LC–QQQ-MS
Authors: Hewes Matthew P , Papsun Donna M , Logan Barry K , Krotulski Alex J 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Previous research has evaluated the extent to which cocaine and other drugs were detectable on currency in the USA. The literature was in agreement that the majority of bills exhibited some degree of contamination. With the increase of fentanyl in the illicit drug supply, this study was designed to evaluate the extent that fentanyl, cocaine, methamphetamine and other substances were present on circulating currency in 2022. A quantitative assay using liquid chromatography–triple quadrupole mass spectrometry was developed and validated to detect six analytes: fentanyl, 4-anilino-N-phenethylpiperidine, acetylfentanyl, benzylfentanyl, cocaine and methamphetamine. One-dollar bills were collected from 13 cities across the country. Sample preparation consisted of soaking the bills in methanol followed by liquid–liquid extraction. Chromatographic separation was achieved using a C18 analytical column and gradient elution with ammonium formate in water (5 mM, pH 3) and 0.1% formic acid in acetonitrile. The quantitative working range for this assay was 0.1 μg to 1.0 μg per bill (equivalent to 1 ng/mL to 100 ng/mL of extract). Fentanyl was detected on the majority (63%) of samples, with 61% of samples having ≥0.1 μg of fentanyl and 4% of samples having ≥1.0 μg. Cocaine and methamphetamine were detected on 100% and 98% of bills, respectively, typically in amounts &gt;1.0 μg. The remaining fentanyl-related substances were detected in 15% of samples in amounts no &gt;0.69 μg per bill and exclusively in the presence of fentanyl. Unsurprisingly, areas of the country with higher incidence of fentanyl use yielded higher frequency of contaminated bills and higher concentrations. Human exposure to drugs on currency is unlikely to have any significant impacts toxicologically or pharmacologically; however, our research findings suggest that paper currency could serve as a useful substrate for surveillance of drug trends regionally, nationally and/or internationally.
Improving the Efficiency of Outbound CATI As a Nonresponse Follow-Up Mode in Address-Based Samples: A Quasi-Experimental Evaluation of a Dynamic Adaptive Design
Authors: Jackson Michael T , Hughes Todd , Fu Jiangzhou 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
This article evaluates the use of dynamic adaptive design methods to target outbound computer-assisted telephone interviewing (CATI) in the California Health Interview Survey (CHIS). CHIS is a large-scale, annual study that uses an address-based sample (ABS) with push-to-Web mailings, followed by outbound CATI follow-up for addresses with appended phone numbers. CHIS 2022 implemented a dynamic adaptive design in which predictive models were used to end dialing early for some cases. For addresses that received outbound CATI follow-up, dialing was paused after three calls. A response propensity (RP) model was applied to predict the probability that the address would respond to continued dialing, based on the outcomes of the first three calls. Low-RP addresses were permanently retired with no additional dialing, while the rest continued through six or more attempts. We use a difference-in-difference design to evaluate the effect of the adaptive design on calling effort, completion rates, and the demographic composition of respondents. We find that the adaptive design reduced the mean number of calls per sampled unit by about 14 percent (relative to a modeled no-adaptive-design counterfactual) with a minimal reduction in the completion rate and no strong evidence of changes in the prevalence of target demographics. This suggests that RP modeling can meaningfully distinguish between ABS sample units for which additional dialing is and is not productive, helping to control outbound dialing costs without compromising sample representativeness.
(006) Can Vibrator Use Improve Well-Being?
Authors: Dubinskaya A , Kohli P , Shoureshi P , Bresee C , Eilber K 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Introduction
In limited studies vibrators have been shown to improve sexual function and improve pelvic floor health; however, there are even less studies on the effect of vibrator use on overall genitourinary and mental health.

Objective
This study aimed to investigate the effect of regular vibrator use on sexual, genitourinary, and mental health in addition to quality of life.

Methods
We performed a prospective pilot study of women aged 18 to 99 years recruited from a urogynecology clinic. Study participants were instructed to use a vibrator for five to ten minutes, two to three times a week for three months on their external genitalia. Sexual function, pelvic floor function, mental health, and pelvic examination were assessed at the initial visit and at three months follow-up using validated questionnaires.

Results
Of the 79 participants enrolled in the study, 53 women (66%) completed the study. The mean age of the participants was 54.7 years (range 19 – 80 years), and the majority of participants were Caucasian (n=59, 74.7%), post-menopausal (n=48, 60.8%), and not receiving systemic (n=63, 79.7%) or local (n=63, 79.7%) hormone therapy. Sexual function significantly improved over time (p =0.002), while the rate of bothersome pelvic organ prolapse symptoms and pain scores significantly decreased (p=0.034 and 0.0008, respectively). Rates of urge urinary incontinence decreased although this was not statistically significant (p=0.059). There was a significant improvement in gross appearance of lichen sclerosus lesions (p=0.025) and in severity of vaginal atrophy (p=0.018). Rates of depression were significantly decreased (p=0.011). Patients who completed the study were more likely to report having partnered sexual activity (p=0.067), and significantly more likely to have vaginal penetration during intercourse (p=0.017).

Conclusions
Vibrator use was associated with improved sexual, genitourinary, and mental health.

Disclosure
No.
(013) Glycated Serum Albumin Decreases Connexin 43 Phosphorylation in the Corpus Cavernosum
Authors: Huang Y , Liu W , Liu Y , Zhang M , Hu K , Xu S , Lu M 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Glycated serum albumin (GSA) is an early glycosylation product that participates in diabetic vascular complications, including retinopathy, nephropathy, neuropathy, and coronary artery disease. Elevated GSA levels and the associated damage to the corpus cavernosum might be limited to not only diabetic patients but also non-diabetic patients and even individuals with normal glucose levels.

Objective
This study aimed to examine the role of GSA in early damage to the corpus cavernosum and identify the pathways involved in GSA-induced endothelium damage.

Methods
Nine 8-week-old male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats (250–300 g) were divided into the control (saline vehicle, n=3) and GSA (200 μg/kg, n=6) groups. The corpus cavernosum tissues were harvested. Phosphorylated and non-phosphorylated connexin 43 (Cx43), endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K), and serine-threonine kinase (Akt) were tested by immunohistochemistry and western blotting. Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) overexpressing Cx43 were used to analyze the Cx43 phosphorylation sites (S368, S262, Y265, S255, and S279/282) using western blotting.

Results
The expression of phosphorylated Cx43 in the penis was significantly lower in GSA-treated rats than in controls. The expression levels of p-Cx43, p-eNOS, p-PI3K, and p-Akt were significantly decreased in HUVECs exposed to GSA in dose- and time-dependent manners. The most significant impact on all four proteins was observed with 1 μg/mL of GSA for 12 h. Phosphorylation at the S368, S262, Y265, S255, and S279/282 sites of Cx43 was downregulated by GSA, and S368 was the most significantly suppressed phosphorylation site compared with the other sites.

Conclusions
GSA decreases the expression of p-Cx43 in the corpus cavernosum of rats. This effect might be also related to the decreased phosphorylation of p-eNOS, p-PI3K, and p-Akt, as well as by the downregulation of phosphorylation at the S368 site.

Disclosure
No.
(014) Safety and Efficacy of Platelet-Rich Plasma Injection for the Treatment of Erectile Dysfunction; A Randomized Prospective Study
Authors: Ragheb A , Fahmy M , Lotfy A , Elmarakby A 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) intracorporeal injection is one of the popular regenerative therapies that has been gaining much interest in recent years as an adjunct or alternative treatment for erectile dysfunction (ED). Nevertheless, scientific evidence to support its clinical efficacy remains controversial.

Objective
The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of PRP injections for the treatment of ED.

Methods
A prospective, randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled, interventional clinical study was conducted on 52 subjects at the Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, Beni-Suef University. Patients were randomized into two groups: the PRP group (n=26) and the placebo (saline) group (n=26). Each participant received three sessions (at two-week intervals) of PRP or saline injections according to his assigned group. International index of erectile function-5 (IIEF-5) scores and safety-related observations were collected at the 1st, 3rd, and 6th months of follow-up.

Results
The median age and ED duration were statistically comparable for both groups, 52.2 versus 52.5 years and 12.87 versus 11.8, respectively (P = 0.285). With regards to the efficacy of PRP, there were no statistically significant differences between both groups after 1, 3, and 6 months of treatment. After 1 month of treatment, the mean IIEF-5 score for the PRP group was 16.12 ± 1.25 versus 15.99 ± 1.21 for the placebo group (P = 0.683). After 3 months, the IIEF-5 score for the PRP group was 16.44 ± 1.17 compared to 16.31 ± 1.06 for the placebo group (P = 0.653). Also after 6 months, the IIEF-5 score for the PRP group was 16.35 ± 1.45 close to 16.23 ± 1.19 for the placebo group (P = 0.727). No transient hemorrhagic adverse events (hematuria, local petechial bleeding, or ecchymosis) or other side effects were reported during the injection and follow-up period for both groups.

Conclusions
The results of this trial suggest that although the treatment of ED with 3 injections of intracavernosal PRP separated by two-week intervals may be safe, it is not more effective than a placebo injection.

Disclosure
No.
(061) Xenon Facilitates Schwann Cell Demyelination via Inhibition of SPRY2 in Treating Erectile Function After Cavernous Nerve Injury
Authors: Yang B , Zhao X , Wang R , Dai Y 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Cavernous nerve injury induced erectile dysfunction (ED) is the most common complication after radical prostatectomy for prostate cancer. Our previous studies found that xenon (Xe) can partially restore the erectile function and cavernous nerve function of rats with neurogenic ED, but the mechanism is unclear. Schwann cells (SC) play an important role in peripheral nerve repair, and after axonal injury, SC undergo demyelination and transform into repair-type SC to promote repair.

Objective
The purpose of this study is to verify whether Xe promotes the demyelination of Schwann cells and its molecular mechanism.

Methods
Human SCs were cultured in vitro and given Echo-lipid particles (ELIPs) carrying Xe. The control group was given empty ELIPs. Ultrasound was performed above the culture dish to break ELIPs and release the gas. After treatment, the expression level of the EGR2 gene, a marker of SC demyelination, was detected, and RNA was extracted for mRNA sequencing. Sequencing results were validated in SC and rat dorsal root ganglion (MRP) tissues through Western blot and qPCR.

Results
After Xe treatment, the level of EGR2 in SC cultured in vitro decreased, indicating that Xe treatment can promote the demyelination process of SC. RNA-sequencing results showed that after Xe treatment, 88 genes were up-regulated and 231 genes were down-regulated. Top 10 KEGG pathway enrichment analysis suggested an increase in MAPK pathway expression. Meanwhile, among the differentially expressed genes, we found that the expression of SPRY2 (Sprouty RTK Signaling Antagonist 2) decreased, a negative feedback regulator of the MAPK pathway. Using qPCR and Western blot on SC and rat MPG tissues in vitro, we validated the sequencing results and found that after Xe treatment, the expression level of SPRY2 decreased, and the level of pERK increased.

Conclusions
Xe may promote the demyelination of Schwann cells and the repair of cavernous nerves by inhibiting the SPRY2 level of SC, reducing its inhibition of the MAPK/ERK pathway.

Disclosure
No.
(073) A Novel Method——Identifying Anejaculation or Retrograde Ejaculation by Transrectal Dynamic Ultrasound (Report of 11 Cases)
Authors: Wei L , Zheng L , Jiang T 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Ejaculation is what we can see whereas orgasm is what we feel. Hence, the presence of ejaculate does not indicate the ability to experience orgasm. Having orgasm without ejaculate may be due to anejaculation (AE) or retrograde ejaculation (RE). Retrograde ejaculation is usually diagnosed by finding sperm in a urine sample after orgasm. However, it can be difficult to differentiate in cases of very low semen volume, previous vasectomy, ejaculatory duct obstruction, or azoospermia.

Objective
This study aims to explore the use of transrectal dynamic ultrasonographic (US) to observe the process of ejaculation, direction of seminal flow, and changes in seminal vesicles, ejaculatory ducts, and bladder neck during orgasm, providing visual differentiation between AE and RE.

Methods
US observations were conducted on 11 patients who experienced orgasm without ejaculate.

Results
Among the 11 patients (7 with diabetes, 1 with congenital megacolon surgery, 1 with urethral stricture), 3 patients had unsuccessful examinations due to discomfort or technical issues with the transrectal ultrasound probe. Successful observations were made in 8 patients, where 5 patients showed contraction of the seminal vesicles and incomplete closure of the bladder neck during orgasm, leading to RE. In 3 cases, no changes in the seminal vesicles or bladder neck were observed, and no seminal flow was seen, leading to AE.

Conclusions
Dynamic ultrasonographic allows for the observation of the ejaculation process and understanding of the changes in seminal vesicles and bladder neck during orgasm, enabling differentiation between AE and RE.

Disclosure
No.