bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Assessing the influence of recurrent urinary tract infections on sexual function: a case–control study
Authors: Medina-Polo José , Guntiñas-Castillo Alicia , Arrébola-Pajares Ana , Juste-Álvarez Silvia , de la Calle-Moreno Ana , Romero-Otero Javier , Rodríguez-Antolín Alfredo 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Background
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) significantly impact quality of life and can also lead to changes in sexual function.

Aim
This study aims to assess the symptoms associated with recurrent urinary tract infections (rUTIs) and their influence on both quality of life and sexual activity.

Methods
A case–control study was conducted, involving 383 patients with rUTIs and 161 healthy controls. The Acute Cystitis Symptom Score (ACSS) and Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) questionnaires were utilized, with all surveys completed online through Google Forms.

Outcomes
The ACSS and FSFI were collected using online surveys designed through Google Forms.

Results
A higher prevalence of constipation was observed in the rUTI group compared to controls (37.6% vs 31.7%). rUTIs caused moderate to severe interference with work activities in 55.5% of cases, while 59% reported interference with social life. Sexual life assessment revealed that all FSFI domains were significantly affected in patients with rUTIs. Sexual desire was rated as low or very low in 61.9% of rUTI cases compared to 48.1% of controls (P &lt; .001). Additionally, 35.3% of rUTI patients reported low or very low confidence in becoming sexually aroused, compared to 7.5% of controls (P &lt; .001). Difficulty reaching orgasm was reported by 29.6% of rUTI patients versus 20.7% of controls (P &lt; .001). Pain or discomfort following vaginal penetration was reported more than half the time by 43.9% of rUTI patients, compared to 19.6% of controls (P &lt; .001). Dissatisfaction with sexual intercourse was noted in 53.6% of rUTI patients versus 15.8% of controls (P &lt; .001).

Clinical Implications
The assessment of sexual health should be integrated into the management of patients with rUTIs. Interventions targeting UTI management must also address strategies to improve sexual function and satisfaction.

Strengths and Limitations
This study provides insight into the impact of rUTIs on sexual function across both pre- and post-menopausal women, allowing for an evaluation of how sexual perceptions evolve with age. However, the study's limitations include the lack of assessment of sexual practices, which may influence the risk of rUTIs and affect FSFI results.

Conclusions
Women with rUTIs report significantly lower sexual satisfaction and higher rates of sexual dysfunction. It is essential to evaluate the sexual function of patients with rUTIs, and management strategies must consider ways to improve sexual health as part of the overall treatment plan.
Comparison of the effectiveness of 2 shockwave therapy protocols for the treatment of vascular erectile dysfunction: a randomized, multicenter, open-label, noninferiority, phase 4 clinical trial
Authors: Corredor Hector A , Sandoval-Salinas Carolina , Martinez Juan M , Barba Jorge , Patrón Francisco 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Background
Shockwave therapy is an optional adjuvant treatment for vascular erectile dysfunction (ED). There is variability in treatment protocols and challenges with patients adherence to the weekly protocol, which is the most commonly used.

Aim
This study aimed to evaluate the noninferiority of a monthly shockwave therapy protocol compared to the weekly protocol for treating vascular ED.

Methods
A randomized, open-label, control active, multicenter clinical trial was conducted. A total of 184 men diagnosed with vascular ED, without comorbid conditions associated with secondary dysfunction or active treatment for ED, were included across 5 clinics in Mexico and Colombia. Patients were randomized to receive either 6 sessions of weekly or monthly shockwave therapy, applying the same parameters for both groups.

Outcomes
The primary outcome was the change in the International Index of Erectile Function-Erectile Function Domain (IIEF-EF) Questionnaire score at 24 weeks after treatment, assessed using a noninferiority approach. Secondary outcomes included clinical improvement, erection hardness, and self-esteem (SEAR Questionnaire) at posttreatment, 12 weeks, and 24 weeks of follow-up.

Results
At 24-week posttreatment, the average change in IIEF-EF was 1.93 (± 6.55; 95% CI 0.49-3.38) in the weekly group and 4.30 (± 6.78; 95% CI 2.69-5.9) in the monthly group, demonstrating noninferiority of the monthly protocol (difference −2.36; 95% CI −4.4 to −0.2; noninferiority P &lt; .0001). At the end of treatment, clinical improvement was achieved by 55.2% of participants in the monthly protocol and 30.9% in the weekly (P = .042). No significant differences were found in other outcomes.

Clinical Implications
A 6-session monthly shockwave therapy regimen could improve erectile function in men with ED.

Strengths and Limitations
This is the largest clinical trial to date evaluating shockwave therapy regimens for ED. The principal limitations were the absence of objective vascular assessment of the changes produced by shockwaves, and the absence of a placebo control group.

Conclusion
A monthly protocol of 6 shockwave therapy sessions is noninferior to a weekly protocol up to 6 months after therapy, in men with vascular ED.
The Immunopeptidomic Landscape of Ependymomas Provides Actionable Antigens for T Cell-Based Immunotherapy
Authors: Mühlenbruch Lena , Rieger David , Becker Hannes , Santos Leite Ana Maia , Mäurer Irina , Schittenhelm Jens , Dubbelaar Marissa , Bichmann Leon , Kohlbacher Oliver , Rammensee Hans-Georg , Gouttefangeas Cécile , Tatagiba Marcos , Walz Juliane S , Tabatabai Ghazaleh 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Background
Ependymoma are primary tumors of the nervous system. Due to their growth pattern, many ependymomas can be managed with neurosurgical resection alone. A substantial proportion of these tumors recurs or displays infiltrative growth patterns. Further established therapeutic options include radiation therapy. Systemic treatment options include platinum-based therapeutic regimes or a combination of lapatinib and temozolomide. Peptide-based immunotherapy represents a promising therapeutic strategy relying on the induction of tumor-specific T cells targeting human leukocyte antigens (HLA)-presented peptides. Our work aimed to analyze the landscape of naturally presented HLA class I and II ligands of primary ependymomas (EPN) to delineate EPN-associated antigens.

Methods
We investigated 22 EPN tissue samples using a comparative mass spectrometry-based immunopeptidomic approach. Additionally, EPN-specific antigens were functionally characterized in T cell-based immunogenicity assays.

Results
We discovered a subset of EPN-exclusive peptides including HLA-A*02 and HLA-A*25/HLA-A*26–restricted HLA ligands and identified a small panel of cancer/testis antigens (CTAs)-derived HLA ligands. Furthermore, we outlined immunopeptidomic alterations in different ependymoma subgroups and progressive ependymoma. Subsequently, we performed functional characterization of the previously identified HLA-A*02:01 restricted peptide FLDS to demonstrate immunogenicity in vitro.

Conclusion
The immunopeptidome landscape of EPNs provides actionable targets that could further be explored as a T-cell-based immunotherapeutic strategy in this tumor entity.
Identification of fibrosis-related genes and biomarkers in diabetic erectile dysfunction
Authors: Deng Wenjia , Cui Lingang , Li Teng , Meng Qingjun , Sun Taotao , Yuan Penghui 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Background
Diabetic erectile dysfunction (DMED) has a high incidence and is poorly treated.

Aim
This study investigates fibrosis’s genetic profiling and explores potential mechanisms for DMED.

Methods
The DMED model was constructed in rats using streptozotocin. Erectile function was quantified using cavernous nerve electrostimulation. Fibrosis was evaluated using Masson’s staining. RNA-seq was employed to analyze differentially expressed genes and fibrosis-related genes (FRGs) were acquired. Function enrichment analyses were performed, and genetic interaction was analyzed. Hub FRGs were screened using machine learning algorithms and Cytoscape tools and validated in Gene Expression Omnibus databases. Moreover, biological roles and subpopulation distribution of hub FRGs were determined.

Outcomes
Fibrosis–related genetic functions may play a vital role in DMED.

Results
Based on comprehensive analysis, 45 differentially expressed FRGs were identified. These genes participate in regulating smooth muscle cell proliferation, vasoconstriction, and collagen-associated activities. Final analyses identified and validated a core gene signature comprising TIMP1, BMP7, and POSTN. They were closely associated with diabetic complications-related signaling pathways and extracellular matrix-receptor interaction.

Clinical Translation
The identified fibrosis-related gene signature may serve as the novel biomarkers for treating DMED.

Strengths and Limitations
The study is the first to investigate the genetic profiles behind fibrosis and DMED using comprehensive approaches. However, the validation is not adequate and more animal experiments are needed.

Conclusion
The gene profiling and biological functions of FRGs in DMED were identified. These results broaden the understanding of fibrosis in DMED.
Physicochemical characterization and 16S rRNA analysis of a direct-fed microbial from calf ruminal fluid and its protective effect on Sprague–Dawley rat gut barrier function
Authors: Gómez-Velázquez Haiku D J , González-Dávalos Laura , de los Ríos Erika A , Figueroa-Cárdenas Juan de Dios , Vázquez-Durán Alma , Méndez-Albores Abraham , Shimada Armando , Mora Ofelia 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
This study aimed to characterize the physicochemical properties and microbiota composition of a direct-fed microbial (DFM) and evaluate its protective effect on intestinal permeability in Sprague-Dawley rats using fluorescein isothiocyanate dextran (FITC-d) as a biomarker. The DFM was further characterized using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), dynamic light scattering (DLS), environmental scanning electron microscopy (ESEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), and cell surface hydrophobicity (MATH assay). The 16S rRNA gene was sequenced using short-read sequencing. In general, the DFM exhibited the characteristic FTIR bands associated with probiotic cells with a protein/carbohydrate ratio of 1.3:1. It was also found from the DLS analysis that the average particle size and surface electrical potential of the probiotic cells were 1,062 ± 77 nm and -32.6 ± 3.7 mV, respectively. ESEM studies confirmed the size of the cells (1,010-1,060 nm), showing a quasi-spherical cocci-type morphology, whereas EDS spectroscopy revealed a higher Nitrogen/Carbone ratio on the cell surface. Moreover, the MATH assay showed the hydrophobic character of the DFM (92 % adhesion). Furthermore, based on the 16S rRNA gene analysis, the predominant genus in the DFM was Streptococcus (99 %). Regarding the protective effect on the gut barrier, animals supplemented with 1011 CFU/mL exhibited a significantly reduced intestinal permeability compared with the control group. DFM supplementation also increased villi and crypt dimensions and Goblet cells (P &lt; 0.05) in the ileum and cecum. These results demonstrate that the DFM presented adequate surface and colloidal properties that help maintain the functionality of the gut barrier.
The Effect of Aromatherapy Massage on Cramp Frequency, Pain Intensity, and Quality of Life in Hemodialysis Patients With Muscle Cramps
Authors: Cetin Serife , Tasci Sultan , Kocyigit Ismail , Saz Ali 
Published: January 2025

Muscle cramps, which are frequently encountered in hemodialysis patients, affect individuals bio-psycho-socially, limit their activities of daily living, and reduce their quality of life. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the effects of aromatherapy massage applied in 12 sessions over 4 weeks on cramp frequency, pain severity, and quality of life. The study was conducted as a pretest-posttest, randomized controlled, and single-blinded using a quantitative and qualitative research design. The sample consisted of 94 individuals randomized into 3 groups: intervention (n = 30), placebo control (n = 32), and control (n = 32). Received foot and lower leg massage with essential oils for the intervention group and baby oil for the placebo control group. Muscle cramp and pain were measured by visual analog scale (VAS), and quality of life was measured by Ferrans and Powers Quality of Life Index—Dialysis Version III. Qualitative data were collected with an individual interview form. In both the intervention and placebo control groups, cramp frequency and pain intensity decreased, while quality of life improved (P < .05). Patients’ activities of daily living improved. Aromatherapy massage was more effective in the first weeks and also decreased l-carnitine and analgesic consumption (P < .05). The obtained qualitative data supported the quantitative data. Aromatherapy and classical massage helped reduce patients’ muscle cramps and pain. Patients’ quality of life and activities of daily living improved. Aromatherapy massage was more effective in managing muscle cramps.
Characterization of Radionuclide Resuspension via Aeolian Processes at a Uranium Mill Tailings Site
Authors: Adriatico Vanessa , Palmer Camille 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
A former uranium recovery facility located in northwestern New Mexico currently serves as a uranium mill tailings site undergoing reclamation and decommissioning. High velocity winds are common in the area, causing soil erosion via aeolian processes. Strong winds may carry soil for several kilometers, which is redeposited downwind. This study estimates the potential for impact on remediation efforts caused by downwind contamination from soil-bound 226Ra resuspension. The study was performed by measuring the mass of soil moving onsite to determine horizontal saltating flux over the period of 3 mo. Previous frameworks relating dimensional flux were used to estimate suspension flux from site-massed saltating flux. Using concentrations of soil-bound radionuclides and meteorological data collected onsite, a modified Gaussian plume model estimating downwind deposition of contaminants was constructed. The highest deposition rate calculated, 6.81 × 10−15 Bq cm−2 s−1, suggests approximately 4.3 million years of deposition are required to exceed the criterion for release, a far longer timespan than the expected remediation and release of the site in 2030. Based on the results, estimated impacts of windblown soil contamination were determined to be negligible.
18F-FAZA, 18F-FDG, and 123I-IMP Imaging Reveal Hypoxia and Metabolism in Acute MOGAD
Authors: Yokoyama Kota , Tsuchiya Junichi , Kuwahara Hiroya , Inaji Motoki , Tateishi Ukihide 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
We report the first case of myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody–associated disease (MOGAD) evaluated with hypoxic imaging using 18F-FAZA PET/CT. A healthy woman in her 20s presented to our hospital with seizures, headaches, and vomiting. MRI and CT scans suggested a wide range of differential diagnoses, from neoplastic lesions, such as malignant lymphoma, to inflammatory diseases, such as vasculitis, making her case challenging to diagnose. MOGAD was confirmed by positive myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibodies, and her condition improved with steroid therapy. The 18F-FAZA PET/CT findings in this case may aid in understanding the pathogenesis of MOGAD.
Cervical Defect Reconstruction Using Preexpanded Neck Flaps Transferred in a Scarf-wrapping Manner
Authors: Dai Xinyue , Zhang Zixuan , Zang Mengqing , Zhu Shan , Li Shanshan , Chen Zixiang , Jin Shengyang , Liu Yuanbo 
Published: January 2025

Objective:
Cervical burn scar contractures can be repaired using many modalities, including skin grafts, pedicled and free flaps. Although preexpanded cervical flaps can provide a like-with-like reconstruction, a simple advancement transfer of the flaps often fails to achieve ideal outcomes. The authors aimed to introduce a method using the preexpanded cervical flaps transferred in a scarf-wrapping manner to repair neck defects.

Methods:
The surgery was divided into 2 stages. In the first stage of the surgery, an expander was implanted above the platysma muscle on each side of the neck. After adequate inflation of the expanders, second-stage operations commenced. Following the expander removal, one flap was rotated upward to repair the neck defect, whereas the other flap was rotated downward to repair the neck defect and close the donor site of the first flap. Data on patient demographics, clinical characteristics, and outcomes were also collected.

Results:
Between July 2004 and May 2024, 24 patients underwent neck reconstructions using this method. Four patients had grade I cervical contractures, and 20 had grade II. The mean size of the defects was 15.62×5.75 cm (range: 6×6–18×10 cm). The average dimension of the neck flap was 15.02×7.65 cm (range: 9×6–20×10 cm). All the flaps survived with no perfusion-related complications. The average improvement in the cervico-mental angle was 29.25 degrees (range: 10–45 degrees). Postsurgery follow-up ranged from 4 to 155 months (mean: 22 mo). All patients and their families were satisfied with the outcomes.

Conclusions:
Preexpanded cervical flaps transferred in a scarf-wrapping manner can be used to reconstruct grade I and II cervical scar contractures and provide a like-with-like reconstruction of the neck.
Enhanced Costimulation Blockade With αCD154, αCD2, and αCD28 to Promote Heart Allograft Tolerance in Nonhuman Primates
Authors: Chaban Ryan , Ileka Ikechukwu , Kinoshita Kohei , McGrath Gannon , Habibabady Zahra , Ma Madelyn , Diaz Victoria , Maenaka Akihiro , Rosales Ivy , Lederman Seth , Tkachev Victor , Madsen Joren C. , Pierson Richard N. 
Published: January 2025

Background.
Long-term renal allograft acceptance has been achieved in macaques using a transient mixed hematopoetic chimerism protocol, but similar regimens have proven unsuccessful in heart allograft recipients unless a kidney transplant was performed simultaneously. Here, we test whether a modified protocol based on targeting CD154, CD2, and CD28 is sufficient to prolong heart allograft acceptance or promote the expansion of regulatory T cells.

Methods.
Eight macaques underwent heterotopic allo–heart transplantation from major histocompatibility complex–mismatched donors. Induction treatment for donor bone marrow transplantation (BMT) was administered after a 4-mo delay period under TNX-1500 monotherapy. The BMT induction regimen comprised 1 (group 1, G1; n = 3) or 2 (group 2, G2; n = 5) doses of total body irradiation, thymic irradiation, and antithymocyte globulin, followed by 2 (G1) or 5 (G2) weekly doses of αCD2 and 5 weekly treatments with αCD28 and TNX-1500.

Results.
During the delay period, 1 G1 graft was rejected and 2 (1 in each group) exhibited moderate rejection on protocol biopsy before BMT. Lymphocyte chimerism was seen in 3 of 5 G2 animals and in 1 of 2 G1 recipients. One G1 graft was rejected despite chimerism, whereas the other recipient succumbed to anti-cytomegalovirus treatment. Two G2 monkeys succumbed due to infection (cytomegalovirus, bacteremia) post-BMT and 3 due to posttransplantation lymphoproliferative disease.

Conclusions.
Intensive costimulation pathway blockade with αCD2, αCD154, and αCD28 promotes lymphocyte chimerism at the cost of high incidence of posttransplantation lymphoproliferative disease and opportunistic infections, preventing assessment of the effectiveness of the regimen to promote alloimmune tolerance.
Measuring trends in extinction risk: a review of two decades of development and application of the Red List Index
Authors: Butchart Stuart H. M. , Akçakaya H. Resit , Berryman Alex J. , Brooks Thomas M. , Burfield Ian J. , Chanson Janice , Dias Maria P. , Donaldson John S. , Hermes Claudia , Hilton-Taylor Craig , Hoffmann Mike , Luedtke Jennifer A. , Martin Rob , McDougall Amy , Neam Kelsey , Polidoro Beth , Raimondo Domitilla , Rodrigues Ana S. L. , Rondinini Carlo , Rutherford Claire , Scott Tom , Simkins Ashley T. , Stuart Simon N. , Vine Jemma 
Published: January 2025

The Red List Index (RLI) is an indicator of the average extinction risk of groups of species and reflects trends in this through time. It is calculated from the number of species in each category on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, with trends influenced by the number moving between categories when reassessed owing to genuine improvement or deterioration in status. The global RLI is aggregated across multiple taxonomic groups and can be disaggregated to show trends for subsets of species (e.g. migratory species), or driven by particular factors (e.g. international trade). National RLIs have been generated through either repeated assessments of national extinction risk in each country or through disaggregating the global index and weighting each species by the proportion of its range in each country. The RLI has achieved wide policy uptake, including by the Convention on Biological Diversity and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Future priorities include expanding its taxonomic coverage, applying the RLI to the goals and targets of the Kunming–Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, incorporating uncertainty in the underlying Red List assessments, integrating into national RLIs the impact of a country on species’ extinction risk abroad, and improving analysis of the factors driving trends.
This article is part of the discussion theme issue ‘Bending the curve towards nature recovery: building on Georgina Mace's legacy for a biodiverse future’.
Revealing gaps in marine evidence with a natural capital lens
Authors: Fairbrass A. J. , Fradera K. , Shucksmith R. , Greenhill L. , Acott T. , Ekins P. 
Published: January 2025

The natural capital concept positions the natural environment as an asset, crucial for the flow of goods and benefits to humanity. There is a growing trend in applying this concept in marine environmental management in the United Kingdom (UK). This study evaluates six varied marine decisions across England, Scotland and Wales. It focuses on the evidence informing these decisions and the extent to which they represent the complete spectrum of marine natural assets and ecosystem services. We identified a reliance on various evidence types, including consultations, data and statistics, maps and literature reviews. Natural assets such as aquatic resources and energy sources were most frequently evidenced. Fishing was the predominant provisioning ecosystem service benefit. There was a notable gap in evidence on marine habitats’ water quality regulation service. Recreation and tourism dominated the cultural ecosystem service evidence, with less focus on indirect uses such as spiritual nature connections. We reveal gaps in the evidence in marine decisions on significant marine ecosystem service benefits. Our study provides additional evidence to an already identified need to fill evidence gaps in marine water regulation and non-use values of the UK’s marine environments.
This article is part of the discussion meeting issue ‘Bending the curve towards nature recovery: building on Georgina Mace's legacy for a biodiverse future’.