Adult Male Research Articles

[Characteristics, Sources Apportionment, and Health Risks of PM2.5-bound PAHs and Their Derivatives Before and After Heating in Zibo City].

Atmospheric polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and their derivatives are a global problem that influences the environment and threatens human health. To investigate the characteristics, sources, and health risk assessment of PM2.5-bound PAHs and their derivatives, PM2.5 were collected at an urban site in Zibo from November 5 to December 26, 2020, and the concentrations of 16 conventional PAHs, nine NPAHs, and five OPAHs in PM2.5 were analyzed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Source apportionment of PAHs and their derivatives was conducted using diagnostic ratios and a PMF model, and the health risks of PAHs and their derivatives to adult men and women were evaluated using the source-dependent incremental lifetime cancer risk (ILCR) model. The results showed that the average concentrations of ∑16pPAHs, ∑9NPAHs, and ∑5OPAHs in PM2.5 of Zibo City during the sampling period were (41.61 ± 13.40), (6.38 ± 5.70), and (53.20 ± 53.47) ng·m-3, respectively. The concentrations of the three PAHs increased significantly after heating, which were 1.31, 2.04, and 5.24 times larger than those before heating. During the sampling period, Chr, BaP, and BaA were the dominant components of pPAHs; 9N-Ant and 2N-Flt + 3N-Flt were the dominant components of NPAHs; and ATQ and BZO were the dominant components of OPAHs. Source apportionment results showed that motor vehicles were the main source of PAHs and their derivatives in PM2.5 before heating, whereas after heating, the main sources were the mixed source of coal and biomass combustion and secondary formation. The total BaP equivalent (TEQ) was 14.5 ng·m-3 during the sampling period, and the TEQ increased significantly after heating, which was approximately 1.2 times of that before heating. Assisted by the individual PAH source apportionment results, the ILCR of PM2.5-boundPAHs and NPAHs in Zibo City had a certain potential carcinogenic risk for adult males (1.06 × 10-5) and females (9.32 × 10-6). Among them, the health risks of PAHs from gasoline vehicles, diesel vehicles, and coal/biomass combustion were significantly higher than those from other emission sources.

Short-term behavioral and histological findings following a single concussive and repeated subconcussive brain injury in a rodent model

ABSTRACT Primary Objective It is unclear of the correlation between a mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) and repeated subconcussive (RSC) impacts with respect to injury biomechanics. Thus, the present study was designed to determine the behavioral and histological differences between a single mTBI impact and RSC impacts with subdivided cumulative kinetic energies of the single mTBI impact. Research Design Adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly assigned to a single mTBI impact, RSC impact, sham, or repeated sham groups. Methods and Procedures Following a weight drop injury, anxiety-like behavior and general locomotive activity and were assessed using the open field test, while motor coordination was evaluated using a rotarod unit. Neuronal loss, astrogliosis, and microgliosis were assessed using NeuN, GFAP and Iba-1 immunohistochemistry. All assessments were undertaken at 3- and 7-days post impact. Main Outcomes and Results No behavioral disturbances were observed in injury groups, however, both injury groups did lead to microgliosis following 3-days post-impact. Conclusions No pathophysiological differences were observed between a single mTBI impact and RSC impacts of the same energy input. Even though a cumulative injury threshold for RSC impacts was not determined, a threshold still may exist where no pathodynamic shift occurs.

Antidepressant nonadherence and sexual dysfunction among young adult males: the cross-sectional YAMAN study.

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors are associated with high rates of nonadherence and sexual dysfunction, yet the correlation between these findings in young adult men is poorly characterized. We aimed to evaluate if young adult men are less willing to adhere to antidepressant treatment due to intolerable side effects, such as sexual dysfunction. Deidentified, compensated survey that assessed baseline demographics, PHQ-8 and GAD-7 scores, attitudes towards antidepressant medication side effects, and perceptions of antidepressant medications including selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, bupropion, and mirtazapine. From 665 delivered surveys, 505 respondents completed their survey (response rate: 76%), of which 486 were included for final analysis. After seeing common side effect profiles, our sample's willingness to take sexual function-sparing agents, such as bupropion or mirtazapine, was significantly greater than selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (p < 0.001), with no significant difference between bupropion and mirtazapine (p = 0.263). The negative influence of erectile dysfunction and anorgasmia scored significantly higher than other common antidepressant side effects like weight gain, nausea, and dry mouth (range: p < 0.001, p = 0.043). With the exception of insomnia, participants indicated that experiencing sexual dysfunction while taking an antidepressant medication would lead to nonadherence at a significantly higher frequency than any other side effect assessed (range: p < 0.001, p = 0.005). The risk of experiencing sexual side effects when taking antidepressants could lead young adult men to become nonadherent to these medications. Strategies to augment the effectiveness of antidepressants, such as shared decision-making and the use of sexual function-sparing agents, are critical.

Microcystin-LR Induces Estrogenic Effects at Environmentally Relevant Concentration in Black-Spotted Pond Frogs (Pelophylax nigromaculatus): In Situ, In Vivo, In Vitro, and In Silico Investigations.

Harmful cyanobacterial blooms are frequent and intense worldwide, creating hazards for aquatic biodiversity. The potential estrogen-like effect of Microcystin-LR (MC-LR) is a growing concern. In this study, we assessed the estrogenic potency of MC-LR in black-spotted frogs through combined field and laboratory approaches. In 13 bloom areas of Zhejiang province, China, the MC-LR concentrations in water ranged from 0.87 to 8.77 μg/L and were correlated with sex hormone profiles in frogs, suggesting possible estrogenic activity of MC-LR. Tadpoles exposed to 1 μg/L, an environmentally relevant concentration, displayed a female-biased sex ratio relative to controls. Transcriptomic results revealed that MC-LR induces numerous and complex effects on gene expression across multiple endocrine axes. In addition, exposure of male adults significantly increased the estradiol (E2)/testosterone (T) ratio by 3.5-fold relative to controls. Downregulation of genes related to male reproductive endocrine function was also identified. We also showed how MC-LR enhances the expression of specific estrogen receptor (ER) proteins, which induce estrogenic effects by activating the ER pathway and hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis. In aggregate, our results reveal multiple lines of evidence demonstrating that, for amphibians, MC-LR is an estrogenic endocrine disruptor at environmentally relevant concentrations. The data presented here support the need for a shift in the MC-LR risk assessment. While hepatoxicity has historically been the focus of MC-LR risk assessments, our data clearly demonstrate that estrogenicity is a major mode of toxicity at environmental levels and that estrogenic effects should be considered for risk assessments on MC-LR going forward.

Age structure and growth parameters in a population of the Mediterranean house gecko, Hemidactylus turcicus (Linnaeus, 1758) (Sauria: Gekkonidae) from Western Anatolia

ABSTRACT In this study, the age structure and growth parameters of the Mediterranean house gecko, Hemidactylus turcicus (Linnaeus, 1758) were studied in Izmir Province (Western Anatolia, Türkiye). Our goal is to share with readers a small sampling of observations. In total 38 specimens (9 juveniles, 11 males, and 18 females) were captured and analysed in 2018. Age estimation was achieved based on histological skeletochronology using cross-sections of the femora, which suggested a mean age of 1.5 years for juveniles (1–2 years), 3.45 years (2–5 years) for males and 3.59 years (2–5 years) for females. Maximum age was estimated at 5 years. Age at sexual maturity was estimated at 2–3 years for both sexes, and a significant positive correlation was observed between size and age.

A Computed Tomographic Study of the Molar Teeth of Babyrousa spp.

A photographic and computed tomography (CT) scanning study was carried out on 295 molar teeth of 18 adult male Babyrousa babyrussa skulls and 8 skulls of Babyrousa celebensis including seven adult males and one adult female. The occlusal morphology of the permanent maxillary and mandibular molar teeth of B. babyrussa was very similar to that of B. celebensis. Most B. babyrussa maxillary molar teeth had six roots, with small numbers of teeth having four, five or seven roots. A similar pattern was suggested in B. celebensis. Mandibular molar teeth had between four and eight roots. Tooth roots of maxillary and mandibular first and second molar teeth were largely tapering, rod-like structures. The roots of the right and left maxillary third molar teeth had a more complex arrangement; some were inserted almost vertically into the maxilla; others were orientated in a more distal direction. The mesial and distal roots were splayed in appearance. The right and left mandibular third molar tooth roots retained elements of the open 'C' shape and were generally orientated distally. The pulp chambers were arched to fit under the main cusps in all molar teeth. Pulp canals were variable in number.

Memory, mood and associated neuroanatomy in individuals with steroid sulphatase deficiency (X-linked ichthyosis).

Steroid sulphatase (STS) cleaves sulphate groups from steroid hormones, and steroid (sulphate) levels correlate with mood and age-related cognitive decline. In animals, STS inhibition or deletion of the associated gene, enhances memory/neuroprotection and alters hippocampal neurochemistry. Little is known about the consequences of constitutive STS deficiency on memory-related processes in humans. We investigated self-reported memory performance (Multifactorial Memory Questionnaire), word-picture recall and recent mood (Kessler Psychological Distress Scale, K10) in adult males with STS deficiency diagnosed with the dermatological condition X-linked ichthyosis (XLI; n = 41) and in adult female carriers of XLI-associated genetic variants (n = 79); we compared results to those obtained from matched control subjects [diagnosed with ichthyosis vulgaris (IV, n = 98) or recruited from the general population (n = 250)]. Using the UK Biobank, we compared mood/memory-related neuroanatomy in carriers of genetic deletions encompassing STS (n = 28) and non-carriers (n = 34,522). We found poorer word-picture recall and lower perceived memory abilities in males with XLI and female carriers compared with control groups. XLI-associated variant carriers and individuals with IV reported more adverse mood symptoms, reduced memory contentment and greater use of memory aids, compared with general population controls. Mood and memory findings appeared largely independent. Neuroanatomical analysis only indicated a nominally-significantly larger molecular layer in the right hippocampal body of deletion carriers relative to non-carriers. In humans, constitutive STS deficiency appears associated with mood-independent impairments in memory but not with large effects on underlying brain structure; the mediating psychobiological mechanisms might be explored further in individuals with XLI and in new mammalian models lacking STS developmentally.

Evaluation of the Anti-inflammatory Effects of Methanol Extract of Rauwofia vomitera Leaves (MERVL) Using In-vivo Based Assays

Background of the Study: The response of the body to harmful stimuli, such as tissue damage or a pathogenic infection is known as inflammation.  Rauwofia vomitera is a medicinal plant that is native to large areas of tropical Africa and it belongs to the family of Apocynaceae. It is a medicinal herb used in traditional Nigerian medicine to treat a variety of diseases, including inflammatory disorders. Aim of the Study:The present study investigated the anti-inflammatory  effects of methanol extract of Rauwofia vomitera leaves (MERVL) using  in-vivo  based assays.  Methodology: The anti-inflammatory effect of (MERVL) was ascertained using the Egg albumin -induced inflammation using in vivo assay. A total of thirty (30) adult male albino rats (130-170g) were divided into five (5) groups of six (6) rats each for the in-vivo anti-inflammatory assay. Group 1 normal; Group 2 was given 10 mg/kg body weight of Indomethacin and Groups 3, 4 and 5 were given 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg body weight of MERVL) respectively. Acute toxicity was carried out using standard method. Place and Duration of the Study: Department of Pharmacology Lab, Enugu State of University of Science and Technology Agbani Nigeria, between March 2021 and August 2021. Results: The percentage yield of the extract was 10.8%. The result of the quantitative and qualitative phytochemical screening of methanol extract of R. vomitoria leaves showed that Phenol (1590 ± 55.66) Flavonoid (1168 ± 11.43) and Tannin (1466 ± 40.73) were present in high concentration whereas, Alkaloid (549 ± 4.21) Glycoside (315 ± 61.38) and Terpenoid (162 ± 1.38) were present in moderate concentration. Saponin (1.16 ± 0.23) and Steroid (0.84 ± 0.03) were present in low concentrations. Acute toxicity tests showed no toxicity and mortality at doses up to 5000 mgkg-1. A significant (P &lt; 0.05) reduction in the mean paw oedema was observed for all the treatment groups from 1 hour to 12 hours when compared to the normal group.  The result shown that groups treated with 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg b.w of extract inhibit the inflammation in a non-dose dependent manner with percentage mobilization of 5.7%, 14.1% and 6.2% respectively. Conclusion:  The study's results demonstrate that MERVL exhibits remarkable anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant activities and the extract yielded a better reduction in edema and increases mobilization in leukocyte in response to agar suspension. It also demonstrates that MERVL has a modulatory effect on the vascular changes that accompany inflammation. The plant's anti-inflammatory properties could potentially result from the interaction of different photochemical substances present.  The findings suggest that, if used, the plant may serve as a source of anti-inflammatory agents.

Sexual dimorphism and reproductive biology of commercially harvested oriental rat snakes (Ptyas mucosa: Colubridae) from West Java

Large (&gt;3 m) slender-bodied rat snakes are abundant in agroecosystems of southern Asia and are heavily exploited for their skins and meat. We examined 216 specimens killed at commercial facilities in Cirebon, West Java, to quantify morphological and reproductive traits and evaluate harvest sustainability by comparing this sample to one taken 25 years previously. The snakes we examined were mostly adults, and mostly male. Females were less heavy-bodied than males of the same body length, matured at a larger size than males, but attained smaller maximum sizes. Reproduction and energy (fatbody) storage was seasonal in both sexes, with females containing oviductal eggs primarily during the annual wet season. Clutch size averaged 12.6 eggs and increased with maternal body size. Comparison of the two samples taken 25 years apart revealed strong similarity in sex ratio, the numerical preponderance of adults, body sizes at sexual maturation and mean adult body sizes, sexual dimorphism in body length and mass, reproductive seasonality in females, mean fecundity, and the relationship between fecundity and maternal body size. That consistency suggests that commercial harvesting over the intervening period has not affected the biological traits of rat snake populations, consistent with a sustainable level of offtake.

Redescription of Rhyacophila clemens Tsuda 1940 (Trichoptera, Rhyacophilidae), with descriptions of five new, allied species from Japan

Japanese species of the Rhyacophila clemens Species Group Ross 1956 are revised, and six species including five new allied species are recognized: R. clemens Tsuda 1940, R. vesperalis sp. nov., R. inazui sp. nov., R. angulicauda sp. nov., R. parvicauda sp. nov., and R. furcicauda sp. nov. Adult males and females of all species are described or redescribed, and the male genitalia of a Korean species, R. kumgangsanica Kumanski 1990, also belonging to this species group, are illustrated for comparison. The lectotype of R. clemens is designated for nomenclatural stability. The main diagnostic characters for the R. clemens Species Group are provided as follows: (1) Segment X bears an apical hinged process posteroventrally; (2) two pairs of anal sclerites have a common internal root; (3) a pair of large apical bands surrounds the anus and the root of the anal sclerites; (4) the aedeagus bears a large sclerotized ventral plate.

Assessment of single and combined administration of ubiquinone and lactoferrin on histopathology, ultrastructure, oxidative stress, and WNT4 expression gene induced by thioacetamide on hepatorenal system of adult male rats

BackgroundHepatorenal syndrome is a life-threatening medical complication of liver cirrhosis. Hepatic cirrhosis is commonly accompanied by rapid failure of renal functions. Thioacetamide (TAA) is a potent hepatotoxin and a class 2-type carcinogen. Ubiquinone (Coq10) and lactoferrin (LF) are potent antioxidants with antifibrotic and antiinflammatory effects. However, whether Coq10 and LF reduce the hepatorenal injury induced by TAA remains unclear. Here, we investigated the potential protective effect of both/or Coq10 and LF in ameliorating TAA-induced hepatorenal injury and the role of WNT4 gene expression in detecting TAA-induced renal injury in rats. Seventy healthy and mature male Sprague Dawley rats, weighting (200 g ± 20 g) and aging (4–6) weeks were randomly divided into seven groups (n = 10): control, Coq10, LF, TAA, TAA + Coq10, TAA + LF, and TAA + Coq10 + LF. The hepatorenal injury was induced through intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection of TAA (150 mg/kg/twice/weekly) for nine weeks. Coq10 (10 mg/kg/day) and LF (200 mg/kg/day) were orally administered for nine weeks.ResultsTAA induced marked hepatorenal damage, evident by the significant increase in the alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), serum creatinine (SCr) activities, and the blood urea nitrogen (BUN) level. Besides, the significant increases in concentrations of malondialdehyde (MDA) and nitric oxide (NOx) together with significant decreases in the activities of catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD). The histopathological analysis of the TAA group showed obvious fibrosis, steatosis, and inflammation of the hepatic parenchyma as well as severe glomerular and tubular damage of the renal parenchyma. In addition, TAA induced marked ultrastructural alterations and up-regulation in the expression of the WNT4 gene in the kidney. Meanwhile, the biochemical, histopathological, and ultrastructural alterations were significantly decreased with significant down-regulation in the expression of WNT4 in the groups exposed to TAA and treated with Coq10 and LF.ConclusionOur data suggested that Coq10 and LF could have protective effects on TAA hepatorenal damage, through improving the hepatic and renal functions, reduction of oxidative stress, structural and ultrastructural alterations, besides down-regulation in the expression of WNT4.

Primary Retroperitoneal Lymph Node Dissection for Clinical Stage II A/B Seminomas: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Chemotherapy and radiation therapy are considered standard treatments for stage II seminoma patients; however, these therapies are associated with long-term toxicities. Recently, retroperitoneal lymph node dissection has emerged as an alternative strategy, and the first three phase II trials were published in 2023 with promising results. The present study conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate this surgery as an alternative treatment for stage IIA/B seminoma patients. Seminomas are the most common testicular tumors, often affecting young adult males. Standard treatments for stage II seminomas include chemotherapy and radiation therapy, but these therapies are associated with long-term toxicities. Thus, identifying alternative strategies is paramount. Herein, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to appraise the efficacy and safety of retroperitoneal lymph node dissection (RPLND) for treating this condition. We systematically searched the PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane databases for studies evaluating RPLND as a primary treatment for stage II A/B seminomas. Using a random-effects model, single proportion and means and pooled 2-year recurrence-free survival rates with hazard rates and 95% CI were calculated. Seven studies were included, comprising 331 males with stage II seminomas. In the pooled analysis, the recurrence rate was 17.69% (95% CI 12.31-24.75), and the 2-year RFS rate was 81% (95% CI 0.77-0.86). The complication rate was 9.16% (95% CI 6.16-13.42), the Clavien-Dindo > 2 complication rate was 8.83% (95% CI 5.76-13.31), and the retrograde ejaculation rate was 7.01% (95% CI 3.54-13.40). The median operative time was 174.68 min (95% CI 122.17-249.76 min), median blood loss was 105.91 mL (95% CI 46.89-239.22 mL), and patients with no evidence of lymph node involvement ranged from 0-16%. Primary RPLNDs for treating stage IIA/B seminomas have favorable RFS rates, with low complication and recurrence rates. These findings provide evidence that this surgery is a viable alternative therapy for these patients.

Zootechnical function of a population of Blackbelly sheep in Campeche, México, based on morphometric indices

Objective. The objective of the study was to determine the zootechnical function of Blackbelly sheep utilizing morphometric indices (MI). Materials and methods. Five hundred and twenty-five females and 67 adult males were utilized to analyze live weight (LW) and eleven MI, one of ethnological type: body index, and 10 of functional type: relative shortness index, depth index, relative depth of thorax index, longitudinal index, longitudinal pelvic index, foreleg length index, dactyl-thoracic index, dactyl-costal index, body capacity index 1, and body capacity index 2. Results. Averages of the ethnological index in males (68.8) and females (74.2) indicated that Blackbelly sheep of this population are classified as short-sized. Results from the meat-aptitude index indicated in males a clear orientation for meat production. However, results from the milk-aptitude indices indicated in females an eumetric tendency, which means an acceptable orientation for milk production. A strong sexual dimorfism was found with higher averages (p&lt;0.05) for males in most morphometric variables, with an overall mean of 1.16 in the difference between males and females. In males, 82.1% of correlations among LW and morphometric variables were positive and significant, whereas in females it was 57.1%. Conclusions. This population of Blackbelly sheep has a high sexual dimorfism, it is undefined in its zootechnical function, and it has a high-medium body harmony.   

Association of Recalled Childhood Sex-Typed Behavior with Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity in Iranian Adult Males and Females

ABSTRACT Same-sex sexual attraction in both males and females has been associated with childhood sex-atypical behavior. Gynephilic females recall behaving in a manner that is less female-typical and more male-typical compared to cisgender androphilic females, whereas androphilic males recall behaving in a manner that is less male-typical and more female-typical compared to cisgender gynephilic males. In addition, male and female ambiphilic individuals exhibit intermediate levels of childhood sex-atypicality. In this study, we examined recalled childhood sex-typed behavior among Iranian cisgender gynephilic males (n = 236), cisgender ambiphilic males (n = 51), cisgender androphilic males (n = 191), transgender androphilic males (n = 60), cisgender androphilic females (n = 243), cisgender ambiphilic females (n = 96), cisgender gynephilic females (n = 32), and transgender gynephilic females (n = 122). Both cisgender androphilic males and cisgender gynephilic females recalled elevated childhood sex-atypicality, scoring intermediate between cisgender gynephilic males and cisgender androphilic females. Male and female ambiphilic participants scored intermediate between their other- and same-sex attracted cisgender counterparts. Transgender androphilic males exhibited hyper-feminized childhood behavior, scoring even more female-typical than cisgender androphilic females. Transgender gynephilic females recalled behaving as male-typical as cisgender gynephilic males. Consistent with previous research, our findings from Iran – a non-Western, Middle Eastern culture – provide cross-cultural support for the universality of childhood sex-atypicality as a normative developmental precursor of monosexual or ambisexual same-sex attraction in both males and females who are cisgender and transgender.

Relationship Between Gratitude and Sleep Quality among Young Adults

This study investigates the relationship between gratitude and sleep quality among young adults. The objective is to understand gender differences between gratitude and sleep quality. however, there is less research that provides evidence that gratitude affects sleep quality among female and male young adults. To address this, the study aims to compare gratitude and sleep quality among male and female young adults. A correlational study with a sample (N=124) of female(N=62) and male young adults (N=62) was used. To assess gratitude and sleep quality among male and female young adults Gratitude Questionnaire (GQ-6) Pittsburgh sleep quality respectively. Online and offline responses were taken, and online data collection was done using Google Forms while offline data collection was collected from universities, institutes workplace settings. Statistical analysis revealed a moderate correlation between sleep quality and gratitude among female adults. thus, to some extent, gratitude increases young adults' sleep quality. Keywords: dispositional gratitude, sleep quality, male young adults, female young adults

Exploring the reproductive features of Clupisoma garua from Ganges River, Bangladesh: insights into eco-climatic factors for sustainable management and advancements in aquaculture practices.

The Garua bacha, Clupisoma garua, holds considerable commercial and nutritional significance as a fish species. This study investigates the relationships between GSI (gonadosomatic index) and eco-climatic conditions, and provides comprehensive insights into several facets of reproduction, such as size at first sexual maturity (Lm), spawning season, peak spawning period, and proposes sustainable management strategies for C. garua in the Ganges River, northwestern, Bangladesh. Since January to December 2017, 570 female individuals have been gathered from the Ganges River using cast nets, gill nets, and square lift nets on a monthly basis. The total length (TL) of the specimens varied from 3.90 to 26.30cm. Lm was estimated as 14.30cm based on the results of the TL vs. GSI, MGSI (modified gonadosomatic index), DI (Dobriyal index), 14.00cm through TL-FL regressions, and 15.18cm depending on Lmax for this species. Furthermore, the spawning period was observed from May to August, peaking in June and July, based on greater GSI, MGSI, and DI values. Throughout the peak spawning season, there was not a significant differ from a value of 100 in the relative weight (WR) of the female species. During the spawning season, a substantial association between temperature and GSI (p = 0.0038); rainfall and GSI (p = 0.0043); DO and GSI (p = 0.0043); pH and GSI (p = 0.0002); and alkalinity and GSI (p = 0.0001) was detected. Analyzing a 55-year data series (1964-2018), it became clear that an increase in average air temperature of 0.0289 °C and a decrease in rainfall of 2.988mm per year might possibly delay the spawning season of this species. As a consequence, the results of this study provide crucial information for developing management strategies to safeguard C. garua populations in the Ganges River and its adjacent ecosystems.

Topical naltrexone increases aquaporin 5 production in the lacrimal gland and restores tear production in diabetic rats

Diabetes mellitus is a prevalent disease that is often accompanied by ocular surface abnormalities including delayed epithelial wound healing and decreased corneal sensitivity. The impact of diabetes on the lacrimal functional unit (LFU) and the structures responsible for maintaining tear homeostasis, is not completely known. It has been shown that the Opioid Growth Factor Receptor (OGFr), and its ligand, Opioid Growth Factor (OGF), is dysregulated in the ocular surface of diabetic rats leading to overproduction of the inhibitory growth peptide OGF. The opioid antagonist naltrexone hydrochloride (NTX) blocks the OGF-OGFr pathway, and complete blockade following systemic or topical treatment with NTX restores the rate of re-epithelialization of corneal epithelial wounds, normalizes corneal sensitivity, and reverses dry eye in diabetic animal models. These effects occur rapidly and within days of initiating treatment. The present study was designed to understand mechanisms related to the fast reversal (&amp;lt;5 days) of dry eye by NTX in type 1 diabetes (T1D) by investigating dysregulation of the LFU. The approach involved examination of the morphology of the LFU before and after NTX treatment. Male and female adult Sprague-Dawley rats were rendered hyperglycemic with streptozotocin, and after 6 weeks rats were considered to be a T1D model. Rats received topical NTX twice daily to one eye for 10 days. During the period of treatment, tear production and corneal sensitivity were recorded. On day 11, animals were euthanized and orbital tissues including conjunctiva, eyelids, and lacrimal glands, were removed and processed for histologic examination including immunohistochemistry. Male and female T1D rats had significantly decreased tear production and corneal insensitivity, significantly decreased number and size of lacrimal gland acini, decreased expression of aquaporin-5 (AQP5) protein and decreased goblet cell size. Thus, 10 days of NTX treatment restored tear production and corneal sensitivity to normal values, increased AQP5 expression, and restored the surface area of goblet cells to normal. NTX had no effect on the number of lacrimal gland acini or the number of conjunctival goblet cells. In summary, blockade of the OGF-OGFr pathway with NTX reversed corneal and lacrimal gland complications and restored some components of tear homeostasis confirming the efficacy of topical NTX as a treatment for ocular defects in diabetes.

Using the consolidated framework for implementation research to identify challenges and opportunities for implementing a reproductive health education program into sickle cell disease care.

As survival rates for individuals with sickle cell disease (SCD) increase, calls have been made to improve their reproductive healthcare and outcomes. The research team created a web-based program entitled Fertility edUcaTion to Understand ReproductivE health in Sickle cell disease (FUTURES). The study aim was to use the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) during pre-implementation to identify challenges and opportunities from the individual to systems level of implementation to ultimately optimize the integration of FUTURES into clinical practice. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with clinicians, research team members, and adolescent and young adult (AYA) males with SCD and their caregivers who participated in pilot testing. Interviews (N = 31) were coded inductively and then mapped onto CFIR domains (i.e., outer setting, inner setting, characteristics of individuals, and intervention characteristics). Research team interviews indicated the lack of universal guidelines for reproductive care in this population and gaps in reproductive health knowledge as key reasons for developing FUTURES, also highlighting the importance of collaboration with community members during development. Clinicians reported intraorganizational communication as essential to implementing FUTURES and discussed challenges in addressing reproductive health due to competing priorities. Clinicians, AYAs, and caregivers reported positive views of FUTURES regarding length, engagement, accessibility, and content. Suggestions for the best setting and timing for implementation varied. Using CFIR during the pre-implementation phase highlighted challenges and opportunities regarding integrating this program into SCD care. These findings will inform adaptation and further testing of FUTURES to ensure effective implementation of this novel education program.

Abstract PO1-20-05: SURVIVE study – a multicenter, randomized, controlled phase 3 superiority trial, evaluating liquid biopsy guided intensified follow-up surveillance in women with intermediate-to high-risk early breast cancer

Abstract Background: Current guidelines limit routine breast cancer follow-up to clinical examinations and breast imaging. This is based on the results of two large cohort studies conducted in the 1980s that showed no improvement in overall survival (OS) by an intensified screening for distant metastases. Thus, imaging for distant metastases should currently only be performed in patients with specific symptoms. To detect distant relapse in a pre-symptomatic stage, we suggest the evaluation of a liquid biopsy-guided intensified surveillance, analyzing tumor markers (CA 27.29, CA 125 and CEA), circulating tumor cells (CTCs) and circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA). Trial design: Funded by the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research, the SURVIVE study is the first large, randomized breast cancer surveillance trial to investigate the potential survival benefit of a liquid biopsy guided follow-up care in intermediate- to high-risk early breast cancer patients. The trial is a German multicenter, controlled phase 3 superiority study, in which 3500 patients are randomized in a 1:1 ratio to standard vs. liquid biopsy guided intensified follow-up care. At the time of writing 150 patients have been enrolled since December 2022. The total study duration is 144 months. Stratification factors are study site as well as HR-, HER2- and nodal status at surgery. Both study arms receive standard follow-up according to national guidelines. Additional blood samples (year 1-3 every 3 months, year 4-5 every 6 months) and standardized Quality of Life (QoL) questionnaires (EORTC-QLQ-C30/PA-F12, every 6 months) will be collected. While the standard surveillance arm samples will only be stored in a biobank, samples collected in the intensive surveillance arm will be tested for standard tumor markers, CTCs and ctDNA. Pre-specified abnormal findings of any of the liquid biopsy markers indicative of minimal residual disease trigger complete staging. In the event of confirmed disease recurrence, guideline-based treatment follows, otherwise, liquid biopsy testing continues. If applicable, study participants may enter interventional trials. Eligibility criteria: Eligible patients are adult females or males with histologically confirmed primary invasive intermediate to high-risk early breast cancer, defined as an indication for (neo-)adjuvant chemotherapy, and/or large tumor size ( &amp;gt; 50 mm), and/or positive lymph nodes (≥ pN1mi), and/or high grade (≥ G3). Primary anti-tumor therapy (surgery, adjuvant chemo- or radiotherapy) must have been completed ≤ 24 months (≤ 60 months for luminal carcinoma) previously. Patient enrollment during adjuvant endocrine- or antibody-therapy, CDK4/6-/PARP- or PI3K-inhibitors and antibody-drug conjugates is allowed. Statistical methods: The two primary objectives are to determine whether intensified, liquid biopsy-guided surveillance leads to better OS or an overall lead-time effect, compared to standard surveillance. The primary endpoint OS will be analyzed in the ITT population using Kaplan Meier methods and cox regression models, the overall lead time effect is a purely descriptive composite measure. Secondary objectives include invasive disease-free survival (IDFS), distant disease-free survival (DDFS), distant recurrence free survival (DRFS), breast cancer-specific survival (BCSS) and quality of life (QoL). Specific aims: To improve OS and the QoL during breast cancer follow-up, we propose a liquid biopsy guided follow-up method, with high sensitivity and specificity for the earlier detection of distant (oligo-)metastases, to enable earlier initiation of therapy. Conclusion: The SURVIVE-study is a long-awaited trial in early breast cancer follow-up, based on promising liquid biopsy markers. If successful, the results will lead to a paradigm shift in current follow-up care of intermediate to high-risk early breast cancer survivors. Clinical trial information: NCT05658172 Citation Format: Franziska Mergel, Sophia Huesmann, Thomas Friedl, Kerstin Pfister, Tatjana Braun, Angelina Fink, Forca Mehmeti, Tanja Fehm, Volkmar Müller, Klaus Pantel, Andreas Hartkopf, Elisabeth Wiesmüller, Brigitte Rack, Wolfgang Janni. SURVIVE study – a multicenter, randomized, controlled phase 3 superiority trial, evaluating liquid biopsy guided intensified follow-up surveillance in women with intermediate-to high-risk early breast cancer [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2023 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2023 Dec 5-9; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(9 Suppl):Abstract nr PO1-20-05.

The potential neuroprotective of luteolin against acetamiprid-induced neurotoxicity in the rat cerebral cortex

Acetamiprid is a class of neuroactive insecticides widely used to control insect pests. The current study aimed to investigate the potential neuroprotective effects of luteolin against acetamiprid-induced neurotoxicity in the rat cerebral cortex. Four equal groups of adult male rats (10 in each): control, acetamiprid (40 mg/kg for 28 days), luteolin (50 mg/kg for 28 days), and acetamiprid+luteolin cotreatment were used. Acetamiprid was shown to alter the oxidative state by increasing oxidant levels [nitric oxide (NO) and malondialdehyde (MDA)] and decreasing antioxidants [glutathione (GSH), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione reductase (GR), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase-(CAT)], with increased activity of nuclear factor erythroid 2–related factor 2-(Nrf2). Likewise, acetamiprid increases the inflammatory response, as evidenced by increased interleukin-1β (IL-1β), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and nuclear factor kappa B-(NF-κB). In contrast, the treatment with luteolin brought these markers back to levels close to normal, showing that it protects neurocytes from oxidative damage and the neuroinflammation effects of acetamiprid-induced inflammation. Luteolin also demonstrated a neuroprotective role via the modulation of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity in the cerebral cortex tissue. Histopathology showed severe neurodegenerative changes, and apoptotic cells were seen in the acetamiprid-induced cerebral cortex layer, which was evident by increased protein expression levels of Bax and caspase-3 and decreased Bcl-2 levels. Histochemistry confirmed the neuronal degeneration, as proven by the change in neurocyte colour from brown to black when stained with a silver stain. Luteolin may have a neuroprotective effect against biochemical and histopathological changes induced by acetamiprid in the rat cerebral cortex.