bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
(008) Are Vibrators Equally Effective among Women Engaged in Partnered and Solo Sexually Activity?
Authors: Dubinskaya A , Jakson F , Kohli P , Shoureshi P , Eilber K 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Solo sexual activity is a solo stimulation of one’s genitals and other body areas for sexual pleasure. Treatment methods for Female Sexual Dysfunction (FSD), developed to date are usually assessed in the context of partnered sexual activity. There is a growing need to compare the effect of therapeutic interventions, like vibrators, among women engaged in only solo sexual activity and partnered sexual activity.

Objective
The aim of this study was to assess the effect of routine vibrator use on sexual health among women engaged in only solo and partnered sexual activity.

Methods
This was a prospectively pilot study of sexually active women aged 18 and 99 who presented for consultation to our urogynecological clinic with pelvic floor and/or sexual health concerns. Women were offered a bullet vibrator and instructed to use it according to the protocol. Participants’ demographics, health data, sexual practices, frequency of solo and partnered sexual activity, as well as Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) were assessed at the initial visit and after three months of intervention. We used descriptive statistics and a paired-sample t-test to determine the effect of vibrator use on sexual function.

Results
Among 61 women enrolled in this study, 60.6% (n=37) were engaged in partnered sexual activity and 39.3% (n=24) were only solo sexually active. Participants were predominantly white (80.3%), with a mean age of 54.7 ± 16.3. There were no significant differences in demographics and pelvic floor disorders (prolapse, urinary incontinence) between the two groups. Vibrator use among women in a solo group did not show significant improvement in sexual response cycle domains (p&gt;0.05). However, the score statistical trend was noted across all the domains. Women engaged in partnered sexual activity had significant improvement in desire (p=0.03), arousal (p=0.03), orgasm (p=0.05), and the total score (p=0.03) with vibrator use. The study completion was higher among women involved in partnered sexual activity 94.6% (n=35) than women who only engaged in solo sexual activity 58.3%(n=14).

Conclusions
No significant differences in demographics and pelvic health were noted between women engaged in solo sexual activity and women engaged in partnered sexual activity. Vibrator therapy produces significant improvement in desire, arousal, and orgasm domains, as well as total score among women in partnered sexual activities, also more represented in this pilot study.

Disclosure
No.
(020) Does Climate Impact IPP Infection Risk? Assessment of Temperature and Dew Point on IPP Infections
Authors: Hammad Muhammed Alaa Moukhtar , Barham David , Pyrgidis Nikolaos , Swerdloff Daniel , Miller Jake , Amini Eliad , Andrianne Robert , Burnett Arthur , Gross Kelli , Hatzichirstodoulou Georgios , Yafi Faysal A , Gross Martin 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Variations in climate have been associated with greater risk of surgical site infections, urinary tract infections, and changes in the skin microbiome. Although the pathogenic organisms for inflatable penile prosthesis (IPP) infections are commonly skin flora, limited data exists on the impact of climate on IPP infections. We sought to evaluate the impact of climate on the pathogenic organisms of IPP infections in a large international, multicenter cohort.

Objectives
To assess whether the time of the year, during which surgery was performed, affected device infections.

Methods
We performed a multi-institutional, retrospective study of patients undergoing IPP surgery. We then evaluated whether the month or season, during which surgery was performed, affected device infections. Additionally, we assessed the effect of temperature, dew point, and humidity on the microorganisms involved in implant infections. Infections were classified as Gram positive, Gram negative, or mixed (including a combination of Gram positive, Gram negative, and/or fungi). A univariate logistic regression analysis was undertaken.

Results
A total of 5289 patients with a mean age of 62.2 ± 10.8 years received IPP placement. A total of 103 (1.9%) infections were recorded. Overall, 38 (36.9%) infections were caused by Gram positive bacteria. An increase in temperature was associated with a higher risk of infection with Gram positive bacteria (OR: 1.03, 95% CI: 1 to 1.07, p = 0.035). No statistically significant differences were recorded in terms of season (p = 0.19) and month (p = 0.29).

Conclusion
Higher temperature is associated with greater risk of Gram positive infections whereas lower temperature and dew point were associated with a higher risk of mixed infections. These findings may help surgeons tailor antibiotic prophylaxis based on local climate.

Disclosure
No.
(266) Examining the Experience of Sexual Dysfunction and Spiritual Abuse among Cisgender Muslim Women in North America
Authors: Rahman S , Mohajir N , Ceesay H , Lamba A , Khayr Y , Bdaiwi M , Akhthar W , Spitz G 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Muslim women are an underrepresented and underserved population in North America who often do not seek care for their sexual traumas and sexual difficulties. In order to better serve this population with minimal bias, it is important for healthcare providers to understand their vast experiences with spiritual abuse and sexual dysfunction, as well as reasons for not seeking healthcare related to sexual dysfunction.

Objective
To understand the experiences of cisgender Muslim women in North America with regards to sexual function, sexual abuse and spiritual abuse.

Methods
To investigate these topics, a survey was administered to 771 Muslims between the ages of 18–45 who live in the US and Canada 2020. The majority of respondents were heterosexual females, were part of the Sunni sect of Islam, had a bachelor’s degree or higher, and were of South Asian, Asian, Middle Eastern, or Arab ancestry. Aspects of sexual functioning such as the frequency of sexual desire, arousal during sexual intercourse, achievement of orgasm, and pain during or after vaginal penetration were assessed.

Results
Of the 158 respondents who reported having experienced sexual pain, only 34.4% sought healthcare for this problem. The most commonly cited reasons included fear or shame, unawareness, doubt that the situation would improve, and resolution of the pain on its own. 530 participants were asked if religion or spirituality have been used to: force them to make decisions they are opposed to (76.4%), force them to engage in a non-consensual sexual act (14.6%), isolate from others (57.9%), minimize the abuse they experienced (48.7%), or prevent them from speaking out against abuse (53.9%).

Conclusions
This data provides insight into a Muslim cohort’s frequency of sexual burdens which include dysfunction and abuse. Understanding how spiritual abuse can influence patients’ familial, romantic, and sexual relationships may help providers to administer culturally competent care to Muslim patients.

Disclosure
No.
(284) Replacing Malfunctioning Penile Prosthesis
Authors: Majela M , Talib Alzubaidi R , Leiva Ruiz M 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Erectile sexual dysfunction shows a high incidence in the world population. The three-piece penile prosthesis implant has become the standard goal for the surgical correction, showing efficacy, patient satisfaction and a low incidence of complications. Implant malfunction is a cause that often requires a second surgical intervention. Live surgery video is shown showing the technical details of implant replacement in a single surgical procedure.

Objective
show step by step the surgical technique for the replacement of the three-piece penile prosthetic implant.

Methods
Video presentation

Results
The malfunction of the implant is shown during live surgery

Conclusions
Studies are needed to clarify the causes of implant malfunction. Modification of the physical-chemical components of the implant is needed to improve its integrity and durability.

Disclosure
No.
(292) Relationship Between Race, Gleason Score, and Testosterone Levels in Men with Prostate Cancer
Authors: Marciano O , Nordgren R , Raheem O 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Introduction
It has been known in the literature that Black men are disproportionately affected by prostate cancer in the United States. Various mechanistic pathways have been evaluated including PSA and/or testosterone levels (T) in this at-risk population. Based on prior studies, low PSA is suggested to be predictive of low testosterone independent of prostate cancer pathology. In this study, we aim to evaluate the correlation between race and PSA/T levels in men diagnosed with prostate cancer.

Objective
To further study the relationship between testosterone, PSA, and race in men with prostate cancer.

Methods
An IRB approved database was utilized to obtain values for prostate cancer patients. Prostate cancer patients who had testosterone, PSA, and Gleason scores (GS) were included in our cohort with demographic information. Patients were stratified by PSA category. Low testosterone was defined as T&lt;300 ng/dL, and very low T as 0–200 ng/dL.

Results
In our cohort of 653 prostate cancer patients, the mean age was 66 years. The cohort included 34% African American (AA), 62% White, and 4% other. AA men had a median PSA of 8.0 ng/mL, compared to 0.8 ng/mL in white men (p&lt;0.001). For AA men with GS (8–10) and PSA&gt;4, proportions were: very low T (27%), low T (24%) and normal T (49%). For GS (8–10) and PSA&lt;2, very low T (35%), low T (22%) and normal T (43 %) (p&lt;0.05). For White men with GS (8–10) and PSA&gt;4, very low T (33%), low T (17%) and normal T (50%). For GS (8–10) and PSA&lt;2, very low T (37%), low T (20%) and normal (43%) (p&lt;0.05). In GS (8–10), logistic regression demonstrated neither race nor PSA category were statistically significant predictors of low T.

Conclusions
Our results show that despite significantly higher PSA among AA men with prostate cancer, there was no statistically significant difference in T and GS 8–10 prostate cancer. This finding highlights that racial variation may influence PSA but not GS prostate cancer or T level. Further studies are warranted to elucidate the correlation between PSA and T in higher-risk populations.

Disclosure
No.
Introducing the Condor Array Telescope – IV. A possible nova super-remnant surrounding the putative recurrent nova KT Eridani
Authors: Shara Michael M , Lanzetta Kenneth M , Garland James T , Gromoll Stefan , Valls-Gabaud David , Walter Frederick M , Webb John K , Kniazev Alexei , Townsend Lee , Darnley Matthew J , Healy-Kalesh Michael , Corral-Santana Jesus , Schmidtobreick Linda 
Published: March 2024

ABSTRACT
Just 10 recurrent novae (RNe) – which erupt repeatedly on time-scales shorter than one century – are known in our Galaxy. The most extreme RN known (located in the Andromeda galaxy), M31N 2008-12a, undergoes a nova eruption every year, and is surrounded by a vast nova ‘super-remnant’, 134 pc in extent. Simulations predict that all RNe should be surrounded by similar vast shells, but previous searches have failed to detect them. KT Eri has recently been suggested to be a RN, and we have used the Condor Array Telescope to image its environs through multiple narrow-band filters. We report the existence of a large (∼50-pc diameter), H $\, \alpha$-bright shell centred on KT Eri, exactly as predicted. This strongly supports the claim that KT Eri is the 11th Galactic recurrent nova, and only the second nova known to be surrounded by a super-remnant. SALT spectra of the super-remnant demonstrate that its velocity width is consistent with that of M31-2008-12a.
METTL3 as a master regulator of translation in cancer: mechanisms and implications
Authors: Esteva-Socias Margalida , Aguilo Francesca 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Translational regulation is an important step in the control of gene expression. In cancer cells, the orchestration of both global control of protein synthesis and selective translation of specific mRNAs promote tumor cell survival, angiogenesis, transformation, invasion and metastasis. N6-methyladenosine (m6A), the most prevalent mRNA modification in higher eukaryotes, impacts protein translation. Over the past decade, the development of m6A mapping tools has facilitated comprehensive functional investigations, revealing the involvement of this chemical mark, together with its writer METTL3, in promoting the translation of both oncogenes and tumor suppressor transcripts, with the impact being context-dependent. This review aims to consolidate our current understanding of how m6A and METTL3 shape translation regulation in the realm of cancer biology. In addition, it delves into the role of cytoplasmic METTL3 in protein synthesis, operating independently of its catalytic activity. Ultimately, our goal is to provide critical insights into the interplay between m6A, METTL3 and translational regulation in cancer, offering a deeper comprehension of the mechanisms sustaining tumorigenesis.
The role of radiotherapy in immunotherapy strategies in the central nervous system
Authors: Gallitto Matthew , Pan Peter C , Chan Michael D , Milano Michael T , Wang Tony J C 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
The clinical efficacy and relative tolerability of adverse effects of immune checkpoint immunotherapy have led to its increasingly routine use in the management of multiple advanced solid malignancies. Radiation therapy (RT) is well-known to have both local and distant immunomodulatory effects, which has led to extensive investigation into the synergism of these 2 therapies. While the central nervous system (CNS) has historically been thought to be a sanctuary site, well-protected by the blood–brain barrier from the effects of immunotherapy, over the last several years studies have shown the benefits of these drugs, particularly in metastatic disease involving the CNS. This review explores current progress and the future of combination therapy with immune checkpoint inhibitors and RT.
GRAND PLAN: Safety and Efficacy of Glecaprevir/Pibrentasvir for the Treatment of Hepatitis C Virus Infection Among People Initially Disengaged From Health Care Who Use Drugs—A Systematic Multidisciplinary Approach
Authors: Conway Brian , Yi Shana , Yung Rossitta , Sharma Shawn 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Background
GRAND PLAN is a prospective, open-label, phase 4 study. Based at a single center and with a single arm, GRAND PLAN evaluated the safety and efficacy of an 8-week course of glecaprevir/pibrentasvir (G/P) among active drug users with hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection in a population enriched for factors that may reduce treatment uptake and success, such as disengagement from health care and unstable housing.

Methods
Participants were ≥19 years old and actively using drugs and were confirmed viremic, noncirrhotic, and HCV treatment naive. All participants provided informed consent before any study procedures. They received G/P for 8 weeks within a multidisciplinary model of care, with daily, weekly, or monthly dispensing of medications to optimize adherence.

Results
We identified 117 eligible patients with a median age of 46 years (range, 22–75): 27% were female, 21.4% were Indigenous, 48.7% were unstably housed, and 95.7% were active drug users (94.9% fentanyl). One patient did not start treatment, and 4 underwent &lt;1 week of treatment, leaving 112 completed treatments with 94.6% picking up medications weekly. HCV RNA was undetectable at the end of treatment in all 112 patients. One died of unknown causes shortly after treatment. A cure was demonstrated in 108 of 111 (97.3%) cases at the SVR12 time point (sustained virologic response at ≥12 weeks); the other 3 experienced virologic relapse. Considering the entire cohort, the intent-to-treat success rate was 92.3% (108/117). HCV reinfection was documented at SVR24 in 5 cases, 2 of which were successfully retreated.

Conclusions
GRAND PLAN demonstrates that administration of an 8-week course of G/P to inner-city residents with HCV infection leads to a cure &gt;95%. With a short course of treatment, G/P is an attractive option for this population in helping us achieve the World Health Organization’s HCV objectives by 2030.
Meeting the Consultation Surge: A Nationwide Survey of Consult Volume and Mitigation Strategies in Infectious Diseases Fellowship Programs
Authors: Mena Lora Alfredo J , Knodle Ryan , Borgetti Scott , Matt Brionna , Osorio Georgina , Sundareshan Vidya , Rojas-Moreno Christian , Bartash Rachel , Van Schooneveld Trevor C , Reece Rebecca , Chow Brian , Prakash Katya , Butt Saira , Lastinger Allison 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
High patient volume in fellowship programs can affect learning, wellness, and patient outcomes. Training programs must find ways to mitigate high consultation volume to protect the learning environment. This survey describes average new consults and average censuses for infectious diseases training programs and strategies implemented to mitigate high volume.
Predicting individual differences in peak emotional response
Authors: Schoeller Felix , Christov-Moore Leonardo , Lynch Caitlin , Diot Thomas , Reggente Nicco 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Why does the same experience elicit strong emotional responses in some individuals while leaving others largely indifferent? Is the variance influenced by who people are (personality traits), how they feel (emotional state), where they come from (demographics), or a unique combination of these? In this 2,900+ participants study, we disentangle the factors that underlie individual variations in the universal experience of aesthetic chills, the feeling of cold and shivers down the spine during peak experiences. Here, we unravel the interplay of psychological and sociocultural dynamics influencing self-reported chills reactions. A novel technique harnessing mass data mining of social media platforms curates the first large database of ecologically sourced chills-evoking stimuli. A combination of machine learning techniques (LASSO and SVM) and multilevel modeling analysis elucidates the interacting roles of demographics, traits, and states factors in the experience of aesthetic chills. These findings highlight a tractable set of features predicting the occurrence and intensity of chills—age, sex, pre-exposure arousal, predisposition to Kama Muta (KAMF), and absorption (modified tellegen absorption scale [MODTAS]), with 73.5% accuracy in predicting the occurrence of chills and accounting for 48% of the variance in chills intensity. While traditional methods typically suffer from a lack of control over the stimuli and their effects, this approach allows for the assignment of stimuli tailored to individual biopsychosocial profiles, thereby, increasing experimental control and decreasing unexplained variability. Further, they elucidate how hidden sociocultural factors, psychological traits, and contextual states shape seemingly “subjective” phenomena.
Effectiveness and safety of eltrombopag in connective tissue disease patients with refractory immune thrombocytopenia: a retrospective study
Authors: Jiang Xiangpin , Shu Xiaoming , Ge Yongpeng 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Objectives
We aimed to investigate the safety and effectiveness of eltrombopag for adult patients with refractory immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) secondary to connective tissue disease (CTD).

Methods
This is a single-centre, retrospective cohort and propensity score-matched study. Data from CTD-ITP patients treated with eltrombopag between January 2019 and January 2023 were retrospectively analysed. Baseline characteristics and follow-up information were recorded. CTD patients without ITP were matched to identify the risk factors associated with CTD-ITP performed by Logistic regression analysis.

Results
Twenty patients were enrolled, including 5 systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), 9 Sjögren’s syndrome (SS) and 6 undifferentiated connective tissue disease (UCTD). Nineteen (95%) patients were female, and the median age was 59 years. Logistic regression analysis showed that anaemia (OR = 8.832, P = 0.007) was associated with increased risk of ITP, while non-erosive arthritis (OR = 0.045, P = 0.001) and interstitial lung disease (OR = 0.075, P = 0.031) were associated with reduced risk. Fourteen patients (70%) achieved a complete response (CR) and one (5%) achieved a partial response (PR). The median response time was 14 days. The median platelet count was 8.5 × 109/l at baseline of eltrombopag and increased to 122 × 109/l after 4 weeks. No adverse events were observed.

Conclusions
Eltrombopag appears to be effective, safe and well-tolerated in refractory ITP patients with CTD; larger studies are needed to confirm the generalizability of these findings.
NUDC is critical for rod photoreceptor function, maintenance, and survival
Authors: Garner Mary Anne , Hubbard Meredith G. , Boitet Evan R. , Hubbard Seth T. , Gade Anushree , Ying Guoxin , Jones Bryan W. , Baehr Wolfgang , Gross Alecia K. 
Published: March 2024

AbstractNUDC (nuclear distribution protein C) is a mitotic protein involved in nuclear migration and cytokinesis across species. Considered a cytoplasmic dynein (henceforth dynein) cofactor, NUDC was shown to associate with the dynein motor complex during neuronal migration. NUDC is also expressed in postmitotic vertebrate rod photoreceptors where its function is unknown. Here, we examined the role of NUDC in postmitotic rod photoreceptors by studying the consequences of a conditional NUDC knockout in mouse rods (rNudC−/−). Loss of NUDC in rods led to complete photoreceptor cell death at 6 weeks of age. By 3 weeks of age, rNudC−/− function was diminished, and rhodopsin and mitochondria were mislocalized, consistent with dynein inhibition. Levels of outer segment proteins were reduced, but LIS1 (lissencephaly protein 1), a well‐characterized dynein cofactor, was unaffected. Transmission electron microscopy revealed ultrastructural defects within the rods of rNudC−/− by 3 weeks of age. We investigated whether NUDC interacts with the actin modulator cofilin 1 (CFL1) and found that in rods, CFL1 is localized in close proximity to NUDC. In addition to its potential role in dynein trafficking within rods, loss of NUDC also resulted in increased levels of phosphorylated CFL1 (pCFL1), which would purportedly prevent depolymerization of actin. The absence of NUDC also induced an inflammatory response in Müller glia and microglia across the neural retina by 3 weeks of age. Taken together, our data illustrate the critical role of NUDC in actin cytoskeletal maintenance and dynein‐mediated protein trafficking in a postmitotic rod photoreceptor.