bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Resilience of aerobic methanotrophs in soils; spotlight on the methane sink under agriculture
Authors: Lim Jiyeon , Wehmeyer Helena , Heffner Tanja , Aeppli Meret , Gu Wenyu , Kim Pil Joo , Horn Marcus A , Ho Adrian 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Aerobic methanotrophs are a specialized microbial group, catalyzing the oxidation of methane. Disturbance-induced loss of methanotroph diversity/abundance, thus results in the loss of this biological methane sink. Here, we synthesized and conceptualized the resilience of the methanotrophs to sporadic, recurring, and compounded disturbances in soils. The methanotrophs showed remarkable resilience to sporadic disturbances, recovering in activity and population size. However, activity was severely compromised when disturbance persisted or reoccurred at increasing frequency, and was significantly impaired following change in land use. Next, we consolidated the impact of agricultural practices after land conversion on the soil methane sink. The effects of key interventions (tillage, organic matter input, and cover cropping) where much knowledge has been gathered were considered. Pairwise comparisons of these interventions to nontreated agricultural soils indicate that the agriculture-induced impact on the methane sink depends on the cropping system, which can be associated to the physiology of the methanotrophs. The impact of agriculture is more evident in upland soils, where the methanotrophs play a more prominent role than the methanogens in modulating overall methane flux. Although resilient to sporadic disturbances, the methanotrophs are vulnerable to compounded disturbances induced by anthropogenic activities, significantly affecting the methane sink function.
Unveiling the microbiome of hydroponically cultivated lettuce: impact of Phytophthora cryptogea infection on plant-associated microorganisms
Authors: Vlasselaer Liese , Crauwels Sam , Lievens Bart , De Coninck Barbara 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Understanding the complex interactions between plants and their associated microorganisms is crucial for optimizing plant health and productivity. While microbiomes of soil-bound cultivated crops are extensively studied, microbiomes of hydroponically cultivated crops have received limited attention. To address this knowledge gap, we investigated the rhizosphere and root endosphere of hydroponically cultivated lettuce. Additionally, we sought to explore the potential impact of the oomycete pathogen Phytophthora cryptogea on these microbiomes. Root samples were collected from symptomatic and nonsymptomatic plants in three different greenhouses. Amplicon sequencing of the bacterial 16S rRNA gene revealed significant alterations in the bacterial community upon P. cryptogea infection, particularly in the rhizosphere. Permutational multivariate analysis of variance (perMANOVA) revealed significant differences in microbial communities between plants from the three greenhouses, and between symptomatic and nonsymptomatic plants. Further analysis uncovered differentially abundant zero-radius operational taxonomic units (zOTUs) between symptomatic and nonsymptomatic plants. Interestingly, members of Pseudomonas and Flavobacterium were positively associated with symptomatic plants. Overall, this study provides valuable insights into the microbiome of hydroponically cultivated plants and highlights the influence of pathogen invasion on plant-associated microbial communities. Further research is required to elucidate the potential role of Pseudomonas and Flavobacterium spp. in controlling P. cryptogea infections within hydroponically cultivated lettuce greenhouses.
The chromosome-scale genome and population genomics reveal the adaptative evolution of Populus pruinosa to desertification environment
Authors: Sun Jianhao , Xu Jindong , Qiu Chen , Zhai Juntuan , Zhang Shanhe , Zhang Xiao , Wu Zhihua , Li Zhijun 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
The Populus pruinosa is a relic plant that has managed to survive in extremely harsh desert environments. Owing to intensifying global warming and desertification, research into ecological adaptation and speciation of P. pruinosa has attracted considerable interest, but the lack of a chromosome-scale genome has limited adaptive evolution research. Here, a 521.09 Mb chromosome-level reference genome of P. pruinosa was reported. Genome evolution and comparative genomic analysis revealed that tandemly duplicated genes and expanded gene families in P. pruinosa contributed to adaptability to extreme desert environments (especially high salinity and drought). The long terminal repeat retrotransposons (LTR-RTs) inserted genes in the gene body region might drive the adaptive evolution of P. pruinosa and species differentiation in saline-alkali desert environments. We recovered genetic differentiation in the populations of the northern Tianshan Mountain and southern Tianshan Mountain through whole-genome resequencing of 156 P. pruinosa individuals from 25 populations in China. Further analyses revealed that precipitation drove the local adaptation of P. pruinosa populations via some genetic sites, such as MAG2-interacting protein 2 (MIP2) and SET domain protein 25 (SDG25). This study will provide broad implications for adaptative evolution and population studies by integrating internal genetic and external environmental factors in P. pruinosa.
Antiviral factors and their counteraction by HIV-1: many uncovered and more to be discovered
Authors: Kmiec Dorota , Kirchhoff Frank 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Extensive studies on HIV-1 have led to the discovery of a variety of structurally and functionally diverse innate defense factors that target various steps of the retroviral replication cycle. Some of them, such as APOBEC3, tetherin, and SERINC5, are well established. Their importance is evident from the fact that HIV-1 uses its accessory proteins Vif, Vpu, and Nef to counteract them. However, the list of antiviral factors is constantly increasing, and accumulating evidence suggests that innate defense mechanisms, which restrict HIV-1 and/or are counteracted by viral proteins, remain to be discovered. These antiviral factors are relevant to diseases other than HIV/AIDS, since they are commonly active against various viral pathogens. In this review, we provide an overview of recently reported antiretroviral factors and viral countermeasures, present the evidence suggesting that more innate defense mechanisms remain to be discovered, and discuss why this is a challenging but rewarding task.
(010) Provider Habits on Screening Sexual Dysfunction in Pregnancy: A Novel Mixed Methods Study
Authors: Casinelli E , Walker K , Lynn M 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Introduction
The prevalence of sexual dysfunction increases throughout pregnancy. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends screening for sexual dysfunction in pregnancy, however, there is little information on when or how this is occurring.

Objective
To evaluate provider opinions and screening habits regarding sexual dysfunction in pregnancy.

Methods
This is a mixed methods study conducted with an opinion/practice survey completed by 31 perinatal care providers in Illinois and a randomized, retrospective chart review of obstetric clinic visits of 113 patients at a tertiary medical center in the Chicago metro area.

Results
85% of providers believe that sexual dysfunction is either somewhat (n=17) or very important (n=9) as compared to other conditions in pregnancy. Approximately one third (n=11) of providers indicate that they regularly screen for sexual dysfunction in pregnancy. 19% of patients (n=21) charts contained evidence of screening for sexual dysfunction during the perinatal period. Less than half of those with evidence of screening were screened antepartum (n=8). No patients had evidence of screening in the third trimester. Of those patients denoted as screened, 76% (n=16) reported symptoms of sexual dysfunction.

Conclusions
The findings from the survey pilot study demonstrate that while most providers agree sexual dysfunction in pregnancy is somewhat to very important, there is significant variability in their approach to addressing it, with a majority not addressing it at all. Providers reported multiple barriers to screening including a lack of time and appropriate training. Minimal evidence of sexual dysfunction screening or education during prenatal care was seen on chart review. Given the known high prevalence of sexual dysfunction in the perinatal period, these findings elucidate a need for the development of uniform, screening and education standards for pregnancy.

Disclosure
No.
(049) Prevalence of Erectile Dysfunction in Men with Stress Urinary Incontinence After Radical Prostatectomy
Authors: Elshafei A , Ljubetic BM , Novaes LF , Benfante N , Cheung F , Sandhu J , Mulhall JP , Flores JM 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) and erectile dysfunction (ED) are significant complications that have a negative impact on patients' quality of life following radical prostatectomy (RP).

Objective
This study aimed to assess the prevalence of ED in men with SUI who underwent RP the first year after RP.

Methods
This study included men who underwent RP and followed up for 1 year post-surgery. Men who received androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) or radiation therapy before or after RP were excluded. We performed a descriptive assessment of demographics, comorbidities, erectile function (EF), laboratory, surgical pathology, and nerve-sparing status (NSS). Post-op SUI was described based on the number of pads used per day, categorized as 0 to 1 pad per day (continent or mild/social SUI), 2 pads per day (moderate SUI), and ≥ 3 pads per day (severe SUI) at 3, 6, and 12 months post-RP. ED was described based on IIEF score as normal EF normal (≥24), mild ED (18-23), moderate ED (11-17), and severe ED (≤10) at 3, 6, and 12 months post-RP. We reported the prevalence of ED among men with SUI during the first year after RP. We assessed if the severity of the SUI was a predictor of severe ED in a multivariable logistic regression model at 3, 6, and 12 months post-RP. Factors entered into the model included: patient age, number of comorbidities (≥ 3), NVB status (both resected), pre-RP EF, PDE5i exposure post-RP (yes), and severe SUI (≥ 3 pads per day).

Results
9953 men were included in this study, with a median age of 62 (56, 67). The median number of comorbidities was 1 (0, 2). 10% had diabetes, 27% obstructive sleep apnea, and 19% reported 3 or more comorbidities. Preoperative median PSA was 5.7 ng/ml, with a median Gleason grade of 2 (2, 3).73% had Bilateral NSS, 20% unilateral, and 7% had both sides resected. The prevalence of severe ED was higher among men with severe SUI compared to men with 0 to 1 pad per day at 3, 6, and 12 months post-RP. At 3 months, men with 0 to 1 pad per day reported 31% no/mild ED and 59% severe ED, vs. men with severe SUI described 18% no/mild ED and 75% severe ED (p-value &lt;0.001). At 6 months, for men with continence/mild SUI, 35% described no/mild Ed and 51% severe ED vs. men with severe SUI who had 20% no/mild ED and 70% severe ED (p-value &lt;0.001). And at 12 months, men with 0 to 1 pad per day reported 42% no/mild ED and 46% severe ED, vs. men with severe SUI described 22% no/mild ED and 70% severe ED (p-value &lt;0.001). In the multivariable regression model, severe SUI significantly predicted severe ED at 3, 6, and 12 months (Table1).

Conclusions
Men experiencing severe SUI have a high prevalence of severe erectile dysfunction. Severe SUI significantly predicted severe ED during the first year following RP.

Disclosure
No.
(063) The Role of Leptin as a Testicular Immune Microenvironment Modulator and Leydig Stem Cell Function
Authors: Dullea A , Khodamoradi K , Seetharam D , Issa I , Ramasamy R , Arora H 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Introduction
The testicular microenvironment, consisting of cells including Sertoli and peritubular cells, releases paracrine factors that may regulate testicular function. In previous research, Leptin was identified as a critical paracrine factor in the testicular microenvironment. Leptin is secreted by Sertoli and peritubular cells and binds to its receptor in Leydig cells. This interaction triggers the expression of the desert hedgehog signaling pathway, which is essential for Leydig stem cell differentiation into adult Leydig cells, which are capable of producing testosterone. However, our earlier study had a limitation: the human cell model used was derived from testes biopsies, lacking an intact immune microenvironment. This study investigates the effect of Leptin on a complete testicular immune microenvironment in a murine model.

Objective
To investigate the impact of Leptin on a complete testicular immune microenvironment.

Methods
We used 6-week-old C57BL6 mice, exposed to two different concentrations of Leptin, 10 and 100 mg/ml, for seven days. After the treatment period, the animals were humanely euthanized, and their blood and testes were collected. Blood samples underwent a complete blood count differential profile analysis using a Hemavet Mascot Multispecies Hematology System Counter 1500R. Testes samples were subjected to comprehensive immunophenotyping, allowing us to assess the impact of Leptin treatment on various immune cell types within the testes

Results
Leptin at a low dose (10 mg/ml) showed increased, but not significant, levels of serum testosterone (13.20 + 0.37 ng/dl), while LH and FSH levels significantly (p&lt;0.05) increased. In contrast, animals receiving 100 mg/ml Leptin showed no significant changes in hormone levels. CBC profiling indicated that lymphocytes and platelets were significantly influenced, specifically with low doses of Leptin. Comprehensive immunophenotyping revealed a significant increase in CD4+ (helper T cells) and CD8+ (cytotoxic T lymphocytes) cell numbers in animals treated with low doses of Leptin, a pattern not observed with high doses.

Conclusions
This study uncovers previously unexplored aspects of how paracrine factors, released by Sertoli and peritubular myoid cells, can modulate the immune microenvironment within the testis, potentially impacting testosterone production. Future research will investigate the relationship between changes in immune cell types, increased T cell numbers, and their influence on Leydig stem cell differentiation into adult Leydig cells

Disclosure
No.
(071) Just Another Vaccine – VAERS Analysis Compares Genitourinary Symptoms of the COVID-19 Vaccine and Other Commonly Administered Vaccines
Authors: Lichtbroun B , Moore K , Rajagopalan A , Chua K , Velez-Leitner D 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Introduction
There has been a concern in mainstream media about adverse effects of the COVID-19 vaccine including those on the genitourinary system.

Objective
Our objective was to evaluate the rate of patient-reported genitourinary symptoms after the COVID-19 vaccine. We hypothesized rates of genitourinary side effects was not different compared to other commonly used vaccines.

Methods
We queried the Vaccine Adverse Events Reporting System (VAERS) database for all genitourinary symptoms reported after receiving the COVID-19, influenza, shingles, and pneumonia vaccines. Symptoms were placed into one of five categories – lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), sexual side effects, infectious, hematuria, or other disorders of the penis/scrotum/testis. Rates of genitourinary symptoms were compared between the vaccines. Data collection occurred 7-8/2022.

Results
Out of 13,568,650 symptoms reported after the COVID-19 vaccine, 9,022 were genitourinary (0.066%). Genitourinary symptoms included LUTS (39.71%), infectious (32.38%), hematuria (17.42%), disorders of the penis/scrotum/testis (5.99%), and sexual side effects (4.50%). Rates of genitourinary symptoms after the COVID-19 vaccine was significantly lower than the influenza (0.128%) (Table 1) but higher than the shingles (0.030%) and pneumonia (0.037%) vaccines (Table 2). There was no significant differences in the penis/scrotum/testis symptoms category. Rates of sexual side effects were overall low after the COVID vaccine (0.0030%) and not significantly different to rates of sexual side effects after the influenza vaccine (0.0036%) but were higher than after the pneumonia and shingles vaccines.

Conclusions
Genitourinary symptoms from the COVID-19 vaccine are rare. The rate of side effects is lower than the influenza vaccine, and while sexual and overall side effects are higher than the pneumonia and shingles vaccines, these rates are overall very low and unlikely to be clinically significant.

Disclosure
No.
(092) Racial/ethnic Differences in Semen Parameters and Male Reproductive Hormones in the United States: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Dehghanbanadaki H , Kim B , Fendereski K , Ramsay JM , Horns JJ , Jimbo M , Gross KX , Pastuszak AW , Hotaling JM 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Semen quality and reproductive hormones are key indicators of male fertility potential, but studies have reported inconsistent results on racial/ethnic differences in these factors in the United States.

Objective
To perform a meta-analysis evaluating pooled differences in semen analysis parameters and male reproductive hormones across racial/ethnic groups in the United States through a systematic literature search.

Methods
PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science were systematically searched up to December 17, 2022, with no language limitation. All studies on racial/ethnic variations in semen parameters and male reproductive hormones among the general population of the United States were included in this meta-analysis. Standardized mean difference (SMD) and its 95% confidence interval (95%CI) between races/ethnicities were pooled using the random-effects model. Newcastle–Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale (NOS) was used for risk of bias assessment. Heterogeneity was assessed by the I2 index.

Results
Our search yielded 731 articles. After screening, 9 studies were included. These studies had a low risk of bias (NOS ≥ 7) and involved a total of 7,641 participants. The pooled analysis showed no significant differences between White and Black men in the percent of total motility (p-value=0.513; I2=99.76%), total testosterone (p-value=0.272; I2=99.79%), free testosterone (p-value=0.220; I2=99.78%), and estradiol (p-value=0.876; I2=96.90%). However, higher sperm concentration (SMD=3.64; 95%CI: 0.18, 7.09; p-value=0.039; I2=99.53%) and total sperm count (SMD=6.04; 95%CI: 0.09, 11.99; p-value=0.046, I2=99.68%) were estimated for White men compared to Black men. Additionally, higher sperm concentration (SMD=1.39; 95%CI: 0.56, 2.23; p-value=0.001, I2=92.06%) and total motility (SMD=3.06; 95%CI: 0.09, 6.02; p-value=0.043, I2=99.14%) were estimated for Hispanic men compared to non-Hispanic men, with no differences in total sperm count (p-value=0.579, I2=97.79%) or total testosterone (p-value=0.078, I2=95.95%) (Figure 1).

Conclusions
This meta-analysis demonstrated reductions in semen analysis parameters, especially sperm concentration, for Black and non-Hispanic men relative to White and Hispanic men in the United States.

Disclosure
No.
(153) Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy as a Treatment for Erectile Dysfunction: A Meta-analysis
Authors: Saffati G , Naeem T , Guhan M , Abello A , Hinojosa-Gonzalez DE , Kaaki B , Khera M 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is a medical treatment in which the patient is exposed to 100% oxygen at a higher than atmospheric pressure. Over the past few decades, HBOT has been used to treat a variety of medical conditions, including radiation cystitis, decompression sickness and carbon monoxide poisoning. In recent times, there has been a rising curiosity regarding the potential therapeutic benefits of hyperbaric oxygen therapy in the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED), a prevalent condition that affects a vast number of men globally.

Objective
The aim of this study was to review and meta-analyze available data regarding the use of HBOT for erectile dysfunction, including its potential mechanisms of action and effectiveness.

Methods
Two investigators (GS and TN) screened 54 articles and included only those that evaluated the impact of HBOT on ED symptoms using the IIEF score. Prospective non-randomized studies or randomized controlled clinical trials were included, while non-original studies, conference abstracts, and case reports were excluded. Data extraction was performed in duplicate. Data analysis was conducted using Review Manager 5.41, and the presence of heterogeneity between studies was evaluated. The results were presented as the Mean Difference (MD) with 95% confidence intervals (CI). The significance level was set at P = 0.05.

Results
A total of five studies that reported outcomes using the IIEF scores were included in this analysis, which comprised a total of 175 patients who received HBOT and 178 control patients. The IIEF scores were analyzed by stratifying the studies according to the indication for HBOT or the cause of ED. In patients with post-robotic assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy (RALP)-induced ED, the analysis showed a significant Mean Difference (MD) of -4.13[-6.08, -2.18] p&lt;0.0001 in favor of the control group. Conversely, patients who received HBOT for reasons other than ED exhibited a MD of 4.58[2.63,6.52] p&lt;0.00001. In the group that received HBOT for pure vasculogenic ED, the MD was 10.50[9.92,11.08] in favor of HBOT. Patients with urethral strictures exhibited a MD of 4.25[2.29-6.21] favoring the HBOT intervention. Meta-analysis of these data revealed a nonsignificant difference in erectile function scores, with an MD of 3.86[-2.13, 9.86] p&lt;0.00001.

Conclusions
The use of HBOT in the treatment of ED appears to be a promising approach. While further research is needed to establish the efficacy and long-term effects of this treatment, preliminary studies have shown encouraging results in terms of improving erectile function in men with vasculogenic ED.

Disclosure
Any of the authors act as a consultant, employee or shareholder of an industry for: Consultant for AbbVie, Marius, Tolmar, Endo, Petros, Boston Scientific, Coloplast Investor: Sprout.