bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
(250) NLRP3 Inflammasome Might Contribute to Erectile Dysfunction Induced by Chronic Unpredictable Stress in Male Mice
Authors: Priviero F , Rodrigues Dos Passos Junior R , Dos Anjos Moraes R , Arishe O , Wilczynski S , Crockett A , Frambes N , Wood S , Spinale F , Ryan M , Hollis F , Webb C 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Introduction: The association of stress with erectile dysfunction (ED) is well known, however, it is not clear whether psychological stressors affect the vasculature and the erectile tissue in a manner that could contribute to a vasculogenic erectile dysfunction. Besides hormonal changes, cellular damage induced by stress could lead to the activation of the NLRP3, to increase production of cytokines associated with ED. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the reactivity of the corpus cavernosum and pudendal artery of male mice undergoing chronic unpredictable stress (CUS).

Objective
Objective: We hypothesize that CUS leads to mitochondrial damage and activates the NLRP3 inflammasome leading to impaired reactivity of the pudendal artery and corpus cavernosum which might cause erectile dysfunction.

Methods
Methods: Male C57Bl/6 mice were submitted to 28 days of chronic unpredictable stress (CUS). The pudendal artery and corpus cavernosum were removed and mounted in a myograph to evaluate reactivity. Tissues were kept in physiological salt solution at 37°C, constantly aerated with 95%O2/5%CO2 and concentration-response curves to acetylcholine (ACh; 1 nM – 30 uM) and phenylephrine (PE; 1 nM – 30 uM) were obtained. Using non-linear regression, we obtained the maximal response (Emax) and potency (pEC50) of ACh and PE. Expression of NLRP3, pro-caspase1 and caspase1 were measured in arteries by Western blot. Data are expressed as mean ± S.E.M. P&lt;0.05 was considered statistically different.

Results
Results: CUS led to a significant decrease in the maximal relaxation induced by acetylcholine in the pudendal artery (Non-CUS: 96 ± 3% vs CUS: 84 ± 7%, n=6 and 7, respectively) and in the corpus cavernosum (Non-CUS: 88 ± 4% vs CUS: 75 ± 4%, n=7 each group) as well as an impaired contraction to PE in the corpus cavernosum (non-CUS: 1.72 ± 0.17% vs CUS: 1.07 ± 0.15%, n= 7 each group). In arteries, there were no differences in the expression of NLRP3, however, the ratio of caspase1/pro-caspase-1 was increased in CUS, suggesting that CUS increases the NLRP3 inflammasome pathway. Taken together, our data suggest that CUS led to an activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome pathway, and impaired the relaxation of the pudendal artery and corpus cavernosum by a mechanism that might be associated with decreased nitric oxide bioavailability (endothelium-dependent relaxation), whereas impaired contraction might be associated with desensitization of alpha-adrenergic receptors in response to stress.

Conclusions
Conclusion: Our findings demonstrate that stress impairs the reactivity of the corpus cavernosum and pudendal artery likely associated with the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome, which might play a role in the development of erectile dysfunction in stressed males.

Disclosure
No.
(259) Providing a Post-Vasectomy Semen Analysis Cup at the Time of Vasectomy Rather Than Post-Operatively Improves Compliance
Authors: Bernstein A , Zhu E , Saba B , Hernandez H , Rapoport E , Najari BB 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Post-vasectomy semen analysis (PVSA) completion rates after vasectomy are poor, and minimizing the need for an additional in-person visit may improve compliance. We hypothesized that providing PVSA specimen cup at time of vasectomy instead of at a postoperative appointment might be associated with higher PVSA completion rates. We also hypothesized that performing virtual postoperative visits after vasectomy might improve PVSA completion rates.

Objective
To evaluate PVSA completion rates between patients receiving specimen cups at time of vasectomy versus at post-operative appointment.

Methods
We performed a retrospective review of all patients seen by a single provider for vasectomy consultation between October 2016 and June 2022. All patients who underwent vasectomy were included. Patients who underwent vasectomy prior to May 2020 had PVSA specimen cup given at postoperative appointment and those who underwent vasectomy after May 2020 were given PVSA specimen cup at time of vasectomy. PVSA completion and postoperative visit type were recorded. Demographic and clinical outcomes data were collected. Logistic regressions were used to investigate associations between PVSA completion rates and both timing of providing PVSA specimen cup and postoperative visit setting.

Results
491 patients were seen for vasectomy consultation between October 2016 and June 2022. 370 (75.4%) of all patients seen for consultation ultimately underwent vasectomy. 173 (45.7%) patients underwent vasectomy prior to May 2020 and were given PVSA specimen cup at postoperative visit. 197 (53.2%) patients underwent vasectomy after May 2020 and were given PVSA specimen cup at vasectomy. 160 (47.2%) of patients were seen virtually for postoperative visit, whereas 179 (52.8%) were seen in-person. Providing PVSA specimen cup at time of vasectomy was associated with higher odds of PVSA completion than providing PVSA specimen cup at postoperative visit (62.4% vs. 49.7%; OR = 1.68; 95% CI: 1.11, 2.55). No association was noted between PVSA completion rate and whether the postoperative visit was virtual or in-person (63.8% vs. 55.3%; OR = 1.42; 95% CI: 0.92, 2.20).

Conclusions
PVSA specimen cup provided at time of vasectomy versus at postoperative appointment is associated with higher rates of PVSA completion. Virtual postoperative visit after vasectomy is feasible and has no detectable association with PVSA completion rates. These findings together support the growing role of telehealth in urology practices.

Disclosure
No.
(315) Evidence Analysis for Contemporary Vascular Therapies for Erectile Dysfunction
Authors: Zakkar B , Cabral J , Le B , Raheem O 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Erectile Dysfunction (ED) is a common male sexual disorder that is caused by various conditions including vascular dysfunction. Different treatment options can be implemented, like lifestyle modifications, pharmacological intervention, or surgical procedures. In select ED cases, vascular procedures such as penile revascularization and venous ligation could be an alternative option.

Objective
We herein evaluated the current evidence and outcomes of penile revascularization, venous ligation and other vascular surgery with specific emphasis on complications and patients’ satisfaction.

Methods
A literature search was conducted using PubMed and Google Scholar to examine papers from 1993 to present day. Keywords, such as, “Erectile dysfunction”, “ED vascular surgery”, “Penile venous ligation”, “Penile revascularization”, and “Arterial bypass surgery”, were used in this search. All the papers were in the English language.

Results
A total of four studies met inclusion criteria for penile arterial bypass and dorsal penile venous ligation procedures with erectile function, clinical outcomes, satisfaction rates and post operative complications. Regarding penile arterial bypass, two studies identified. First study reported inferior epigastric artery (IEA) to the penile dorsal artery of 1500 patients reported success rates of erectile function were 67% and satisfaction rates of 89%. Postoperative complications were anastomotic disruption, penile skin sensation loss and pain. Regarding venous ligation of penile dorsal vein, two studies identified. First study of 100 patients reported success rates of erectile function were 62% at 1 year. Second study of 26 patients reported success rates of erectile function were 42.3% and satisfaction rates of 57.7% at 3.7 years. Postoperative complications were painful erections, skin necrosis, and penile shortening (Table 1).

Conclusions
Vascular therapies including penile arterial bypass and penile dorsal venous ligation for ED could provide improved clinical outcomes and satisfactions in select patients’ population. Future studies are warranted to further evaluate its surgical outcomes and long-term safety and efficiency.

Disclosure
No.
(349) Shining a Light on Women's Sexual Health: Insights from Patients Presenting with Sexual Dysfunction
Authors: Naeem T , Saffati G , Kaaki B , Khera M 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Sexual health is an essential component of overall health and wellbeing, and its importance in women's lives has often been neglected in clinical practice due to cultural, social, and educational barriers. Fortunately, in recent years, there has been a growing awareness and emphasis on women's sexual health, with increasing research attention dedicated to addressing this issue.

Objective
In this context, this study aims to contribute to the growing body of knowledge on women's sexual health by examining the characteristics of women who present for treatment of sexual dysfunction.

Methods
Women who presented with sexual dysfunction to our clinic from July 2022 to June 2023 were enrolled in this study and administered the PHQ-9 and FSFI surveys. In addition, hormone levels, demographic data, and pertinent medical history were collected at this time. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression analyses were used to identify factors associated with presentation for treatment.

Results
A total of 26 women with a mean age of 52 (SD=2.4) participated in this study. 10 (38.5%) women presented with low estradiol levels, and 4 (15.4%) women with low testosterone, although mean levels thereof were 53.7 (SD=18.9) and 72 (SD=16.8), respectively. Most women (15, 57.7%) reported mild to moderate depressive symptoms on PHQ-9 with a mean score of 7.53 (SD=1.08), but only 2 reported a formal diagnosis of depression. Somewhat expectedly, 24 (92.3%) women report an FSFI score less than 26 (mean=17.9, SD=1.63), corroborating their subjective experience. Additionally, logistic regression demonstrates that depressive symptoms have a strong relationship (R=0.63) with increased pain during intercourse (p=0.014) and decreased sexual satisfaction (p=0.002).

Conclusions
These results provide valuable insights into the characteristics of women who present for treatment of sexual dysfunction. The findings suggest that low hormone levels, particularly estradiol, may be a contributing factor to sexual dysfunction in some women. The high prevalence of depressive symptoms reported in our study highlights the need for clinicians to recognize and address the mental health concerns of these patients as well. It also underscores the importance of comprehensive sexual health assessments, including hormone level evaluations and mental health screenings, in the management thereof, though our findings are limited by a small sample size and lack of follow up and further studies are still needed.

Disclosure
Any of the authors act as a consultant, employee or shareholder of an industry for: AbbVie, Marius, Tolmar, Endo, Petros, Boston Scientific, Coloplast.
(353) Gender-Specific Variations in Perception of Normal Genital Anatomy and Function
Authors: Nicholson R , Choi U , Cohen A 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Understanding perceptions of “normal” genitalia and function can explain and predict trends in cosmetic and sexual health treatments. Previous studies reported male preferences for female genitalia appearance, but female opinion remains understudied.

Objective
We aimed to assess gender-specific variations in perceptions of “normal” genital anatomy and function.

Methods
A 54-item survey was developed using RedCap and distributed to volunteers aged ≥18 years through the ResearchMatch database from January to March 2023. We collected data on public perceptions of "normal" genital anatomy and function and sexual activity. Analysis was performed using JMP Pro 16.

Results
649 participants initiated and 558 completed the survey (86% completion rate). 27.9% of respondents identified as male and 72.1% as female (Table 1). Compared to men, women believed men had larger testicles (24.5% vs. 10.3% believed one testicle was 60.1-90 mL, p&lt;0.01), smaller breasts (45.5% vs. 35.9% felt “none” was normal, p&lt;0.04), and shorter orgasms (55.0% vs. 44.9% felt orgasms lasted 2.6-5.0 seconds, p=0.03) (Table 2). 73.0% women vs. 56.4% men felt labia were darker than surrounding skin (p=0.01). More men than women felt the average woman required no supplementary vaginal lubrication (p=0.02) and that female orgasms lasted longer (12.2% vs. 5.7% believed orgasms lasted &gt;12.5 seconds, p&lt;0.01). Fewer men than women considered their genitals normal (75.0% vs. 89.4%, p&lt;0.01).

Conclusions
Our results reveal gender-specific variations in perceptions of “normal” genital anatomy and function. Variations in perceived female sexual function were striking, with more men than women expecting spontaneous vaginal lubrication during sexual encounters and longer female orgasms. These differences have important implications for counseling patients on sexual health.

Disclosure
No.
(375) Assessing Infertility Literacy and Knowledge Gaps Amongst Patients with Cystic Fibrosis
Authors: Rahman F , Campbell K , Deebel N , Ghomeshi A , Husni Zarli M , Domaradzki L , Tupayachi Ortiz M , Ramasamy R 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Introduction
As patients with cystic fibrosis live longer into their reproductive years, fertility concerns are rising. We hypothesized that while patients with CF may be informed of the impact of their disease on their reproductive potential, they remain unaware of the promising role of assisted reproductive technology (ART) in helping them conceive biological children.

Objective
Employ a cross-sectional survey to understand experiences, preferences, and current concerns in the CF community around infertility education and infertility healthcare access.

Methods
This study was reviewed and approved as exempt status by the Institutional Review Board (IRB) exemption as non-human research. We distributed a voluntary and anonymous Qualtrics survey to CF patients and CF advocacy organizations to assess patient understanding of infertility within CF. The survey consisted of 21 questions and aimed to capture demographics, reproductive education specific to CF, preferences on infertility education, current conception practices, and any infertility treatment. Preference questions were assessed using the Likert Scale, and personal experiences questions were answered through free text.

Results
Forty-one respondents completed the survey (median age of 36 ± 14 years). The median age reported for learning about CF-associated infertility was 18 years. Respondents preferred that reproductive and infertility education be provided early; 43% reported the optimal age of education was younger than 18 years while 50% reported between 18-24 years. Of the respondents trying to conceive, 43% of patients have been trying to conceive for 1-3 years qualifying for infertility. Yet, the majority of those patients (69%) have not been offered semen analysis and 90% have not had previous fertility treatments.

Conclusions
Patients with CF are highly educated and empowered regarding the chronic treatment of their disease. Historically, issues regarding infertility and conception have been cast to the side, given the severity of other issues, such as lung function and survival. As CF patients live longer and healthier lives, they seek healthcare in other facets, including reproduction and infertility. The findings in our study highlight the importance of discussing reproduction and its limitation in CF at a young age to preemptively empower and prepare patients and their future partners. Furthermore, our study demonstrates a strong need to strengthen the communication between CF care teams and fertility specialists. Both men and women with CF would benefit from receiving respective guidance from embryologists and andrologists to maximize their chances of conception.

Disclosure
Yes, this is sponsored by industry/sponsor: Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.
Clarification: No industry support in study design or execution.
Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) and Th-2 dominant immune responses in chronic granulomatous chromoblastomycosis
Authors: Huang Huan , Li Minying , Luo Mingfen , Zheng Jinjin , Li Qian , Wang Xiaoyue , Liu Yinghui , Li Dongmei , Xi Liyan , Liu Hongfang 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Chromoblastomycosis (CBM), a chronic, granulomatous, suppurative mycosis of the skin and subcutaneous tissue, is caused by several dematiaceous fungi. The formation of granulomas, tissue proliferation, and fibrosis in response to these pathogenic fungi is believed to be intricately linked to host immunity. To understand this complex interaction, we conducted a comprehensive analysis of immune cell infiltrates, neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) formation, and the fibrosis mechanism in 20 CBM lesion biopsies using immunohistochemical and immunofluorescence staining methods. The results revealed a significant infiltration of mixed inflammatory cells in CBM granulomas, prominently featuring a substantial presence of Th2 cells and M2 macrophages. These cells appeared to contribute to the production of collagen I and III in the late fibrosis mechanism, as well as NETs formation. The abundance of Th2 cytokines may act as a factor promoting the bias of macrophage differentiation toward M2, which hinders efficient fungal clearance while accelerates the proliferation of fibrous tissue. Furthermore, the expression of IL-17 was noted to recruit neutrophils, facilitating subsequent NETs formation within CBM granulomas to impede the spread of sclerotic cells. Understanding of these immune mechanisms holds promise for identifying therapeutic targets for managing chronic granulomatous CBM.
Impacts of the Local arm on the local circular velocity inferred from the Gaia DR3 young stars in the Milky Way
Authors: Almannaei Aisha S , Kawata Daisuke , Baba Junichi , Hunt Jason A S , Seabroke George , Yan Ziyang 
Published: February 2024

ABSTRACT
A simple one-dimensional axisymmetric disc model is applied to the kinematics of O type and B type stars (OB stars) near the Sun obtained from Gaia Data Release 3 catalogue. The model determines the ‘local centrifugal speed’ Vc(R0) – defined as the circular velocity in the Galactocentric rest frame, where the star would move in a near-circular orbit if the potential is axisymmetric with the local potential of the Galaxy. We find that the Vc(R0) values and their gradient vary across the selected region of stars within the solar neighbourhood. By comparing with an N-body/hydrodynamic simulation of a Milky Way-like galaxy, we find that the kinematics of the young stars in the solar neighbourhood is affected by the Local arm, which makes it difficult to measure Vc(R0). However, from the resemblance between the observational data and the simulation, we suggest that the known rotational velocity gap between the Coma Bernices and Hyades-Pleiades moving groups could be driven by the co-rotation resonance of the Local arm, which can be used to infer the azimuthally averaged circular velocity. We find that Vc(R) obtained from the D &lt; 2 kpc sample is well matched with this gap at the position of the Local arm. Hence, we argue that our results from the D &lt; 2 kpc sample, Vc(R0) = 234 ± 2 km s−1, are close to the azimuthally averaged circular velocity rather than the local centrifugal speed, which is influenced by the presence of the Local arm.
A search for millisecond radio bursts from Messier 82
Authors: Paine S , Hawkins T , Lorimer D R , Stanley J , Kania J , Crawford F , Fairfield N 
Published: February 2024

ABSTRACT
Fast radio bursts (FRBs) are short-duration radio pulses of cosmological origin. Among the most common sources predicted to explain this phenomenon are bright pulses from a class of extremely highly magnetized neutron stars known as magnetars. Motivated by the discovery of an FRB-like pulse from the Galactic magnetar SGR 1935+2154, we searched for similar events in Messier 82 (M82). With a star formation rate 40 times that of the Milky Way, one might expect that the implied rate of events similar to that seen from SGR 1935+2154 from M82 should be 40 times higher than that of the Milky Way. We observed M82 at 1.4 GHz with the 20-m telescope at the Green Bank Observatory for 34.8 d. While we found many candidate events, none had a signal-to-noise ratio greater than 8. We also show that there are insufficient numbers of repeating low-significance events at similar dispersion measures to constitute a statistically significant detection. From these results, we place an upper bound for the rate of radio pulses from M82 to be 30 yr−1 above a fluence limit of 8.5 Jy ms. While this is less than nine times the rate of radio bursts from magnetars in the Milky Way inferred from the previous radio detections of SGR 1935+2154, it is possible that propagation effects from interstellar scattering are currently limiting our ability to detect sources in M82. Further searches of M82 and other nearby galaxies are encouraged to probe this putative FRB population.
Cold diffuse interstellar medium of Magellanic Clouds: II. Physical conditions from excitation of C i and H2
Authors: Kosenko D N , Balashev S A , Klimenko V V 
Published: February 2024

ABSTRACT
We present a comprehensive study of the excitation of C i fine-structure levels along 57 sight lines in the Large and Small Magellanic Clouds (LMC and SMC). The sightlines were selected by the detection of H2 in FUSE spectra. Using archival HST/COS and HST/STIS spectra, we detected absorption of C i fine-structure levels and measured their populations for 29 and 28 sightlines in the LMC and SMC, respectively. The C i column density ranges from 1013 to $10^{14}\, {\rm cm}^{-2}$ for the LMC and 1013 to $10^{15.4}\, {\rm cm}^{-2}$ for the SMC. We found excitation of C i fine-structure levels in the LMC and SMC to be 2–3 times higher than typical values in local diffuse interstellar medium (ISM). Comparing excitation of both C i fine-structure levels and H2 rotational levels with a grid of PDR Meudon models, we find that neutral cold gas in the LMC and SMC is illuminated by a stronger UV field than in local ISM ($\chi =5^{+7}_{-3}$ units of Mathis field for the LMC and $2^{+4}_{-1}$ for the SMC) and has on average higher thermal pressure (log p/k = 4.2 ± 0.4 and 4.3 ± 0.5, respectively). Magellanic Clouds sight lines likely probe regions near star-formation sites, which also affects the thermal state and C i/H2 relative abundances. At the same time, obtained enhanced UV field is consistent with some measurements at high redshifts. Together with low metallicities, this make Magellanic Clouds an interesting test case to study the central parts of high redshift galaxies.