bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Conversion between the Montreal Cognitive Assessment and the Mini‐Mental Status Examination
Authors: Fasnacht Jael S. , Wueest Alexandra S. , Berres Manfred , Thomann Alessandra E. , Krumm Sabine , Gutbrod Klemens , Steiner Luzius A. , Goettel Nicolai , Monsch Andreas U.
Published: November 2022

Background

Early and accurate detection of cognitive changes using simple tools is essential for an appropriate referral to a more detailed neurocognitive assessment and for the implementation of therapeutic strategies. The Mini‐Mental Status Examination (MMSE) and the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) are two commonly used psychometric tests for cognitive screening. Both tests have different strengths and weaknesses. Preferences regarding test selection may therefore differ among clinicians. The aim of this retrospective observational cohort study was to define corresponding scores for the MMSE and the MoCA.

Methods

We examined the relationship between the cognitive screening tests in 803 German‐speaking Memory Clinic outpatients, encompassing a wide range of neurocognitive disorders. We produced a conversion table using the equipercentile equating method with log‐linear smoothing. In addition, we conducted a systematic review of existing MMSE‐MoCA conversions to create a table allowing for the conversion of MoCA scores into MMSE scores and vice versa using the weighted mean method.

Results

The Memory Clinic sample showed that the prediction of MMSE to MoCA was overall less accurate compared to the conversion from MoCA to MMSE. The 19 studies included after thorough literature search showed that MoCA scores were consistently lower than MMSE scores. Eleven of 19 conversion studies had addressed the conversion of the MoCA to the MMSE, while two studies converted MMSE to MoCA scores. Another six studies applied bi‐directional conversions. We provide an easy‐to‐use table covering the entire range of scores and taking into account all currently existing conversion formulas.

Conclusion

The comprehensive MMSE‐MoCA conversion table enables a direct comparison of cognitive test scores at screening examinations and over the course of disease in patients with neurocognitive disorders.
Actigraphy‐measured sleep concordance, night‐wakings, intraindividual sleep variability in parents and their children—Associations with childhood sleep disturbances
Authors: Varma Prerna , Jackson Melinda L. , Junge Moira , Conduit Russell
Published: November 2022

The relationship between the sleep of parents and their children has primarily been studied using self‐reported measures, but data using objective sleep assessments are limited. In particular, objective assessments of sleep disturbance and night‐wakings in parents in relation to their children's night‐wakings is underexamined. This pilot study employed actigraphy to determine concordance in sleep–wake patterns between parents and their children, and examine temporal links between their wakings lasting five min or longer. The study also explored individual variability in parents' sleep based on parent‐reported sleep disturbances in children. A total of 20 parents and children (aged 2–12 years, no co‐sleepers) contributed actigraphy data for the 14‐night study, totalling 280 nights of data. Parents reported their sleep quality using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, and children's sleep using the Children Sleep Habits Questionnaire. Concordance analysis of actigraphy data revealed an average of 70.6% match in sleep/wake state between parents and children. Parents were three times more likely to have an awakening within 10 min of their child waking than vice versa. Parent‐reported sleep disturbances in children were associated with poorer actigraphic sleep outcomes for both the parent and child. Parents of poorly sleeping children demonstrated greater variability in their bedtime, and wake after sleep onset. Further examination of temporal links between parent–child sleep can improve our understanding of factors that predispose or precipitate sleep disturbances across families. Given the high concordance in parent–child sleep and poorer actigraphy sleep outcomes in parents of children with sleep disturbances, there is a need to deliver efficacious sleep interventions at the family level.
Evidence of sweepstakes reproductive success in a broadcast‐spawning coral and its implications for coral metapopulation persistence
Authors: Barfield Sarah , Davies Sarah W. , Matz Mikhail V.
Published: November 2022

Processes governing genetic diversity and adaptive potential in reef‐building corals are of interest both for fundamental evolutionary biology and for reef conservation. Here, we investigated the possibility of “sweepstakes reproductive success” (SRS) in a broadcast spawning coral, Acropora hyacinthus, at Yap Island, Micronesia. SRS is an extreme yearly variation in the number of surviving offspring among parents. It is predicted to generate genetically differentiated, low‐genetic‐diversity recruit cohorts, containing close kin individuals. We have tested these predictions by comparing genetic composition of size classes (adults and juveniles) at several sites on the island of Yap. We did see the genome‐wide dip in genetic diversity in juveniles compared to adults at two of the four sites; however, both adults and juveniles varied in genetic diversity across sites, and there was no detectable genetic structure among juveniles, which does not conform to the classical SRS scenario. Yet, we have identified a pair of juvenile siblings at the site where juveniles had the lowest genetic diversity compared to adults, an observation that is hard to explain without invoking SRS. While further support for SRS is needed to fully settle the issue, we show that incorporating SRS into the Indo‐West Pacific coral metapopulation adaptation model had surprisingly little effect on mean rates of coral cover decline during warming. Still, SRS notably increases year‐to‐year variation in coral cover throughout the simulation.
Using fairness to reconcile tensions between coaching and assessment
Authors: Valentine Nyoli , Schuwirth Lambert
Published: November 2022

Coaching and assessment activities are not irreconcilable; rather, they are partners in a learning journey with fair judgments being the essential linchpin to ensure mutual engagement and interaction between coach and learner.
Applying action‐project method to untangle interphysician conflict
Authors: Schrepel Caitlin Pearl , Amick Ashley E.
Published: November 2022

The authors critique methodologies commonly used to investigate interpersonal competence by contemplating how the action‐project method might better account for individuals' interdependence.
Fermenting molasses and a synthetic odour blend to attract blood‐fed Anopheles coluzzii
Authors: Verhulst Niels O. , Juurlink Malou , Wondwosen Betelehem , Rugaimukamu Sapience , Hill Sharon R. , Ignell Rickard , Koenraadt Constantianus J. M. , Spitzen Jeroen
Published: November 2022

Collecting blood‐fed mosquitoes to monitor pathogen presence or to gather information on the host blood meal is often challenging. Fermenting molasses can be used to produce carbon dioxide to attract host‐seeking mosquitoes, however, earlier work indicated that it may also attract blood‐fed mosquitoes in the field. In the current study, these field results were validated in an experimental setting using a large cage setup with Anopheles coluzzii (Diptera, Culicidae). Blood‐fed mosquitoes were indeed attracted to fermenting molasses with the highest attraction at 72 hours post feeding, which was used for subsequent experiments. Next, it was tested if fermentation of molasses is required for attraction, and whether it acts as an oviposition attractant, increases egg laying, or increases mosquito survival. The compounds that could be responsible for attraction were identified by combined electrophysiology and chemical analyses and formulated into a synthetic blend. Fermenting molasses attracted blood‐fed mosquitoes in the large cage study, while fermenting sugar and non‐fermenting molasses did not. The fecundity of blood‐fed mosquitoes increased after feeding on fermenting molasses, however, compounds emanating from molasses did not trigger oviposition. The synthetic blend attracted blood‐fed mosquitoes and may be used to determine mosquito host selection and for xenomonitoring, as ‘flying syringes’ to detect non‐vector borne pathogens.
Confirmation of the presence of Rickettsia felis infecting Ornithodoros puertoricensis in Mexico
Authors: Ballados‐González Gerardo G. , Bravo‐Ramos José L. , Grostieta Estefania , Andrade‐López Angélica Nataly , Ramos‐Vázquez José Rodrigo , Chong‐Guzmán Laura Alejandra , Moctezuma‐Díaz Luis Ángel , Colunga‐Salas Pablo , Miranda‐Caballero Carlos I. , Álvarez‐Castillo Lucía , Cruz‐Romero Anabel , Aguilar‐Domínguez Mariel , Becker Ingeborg , Sánchez‐Montes Sokani
Published: November 2022

Soft ticks are neglected competent vectors of a wide range of pathogenic microorganisms, among which bacteria of the genera Rickettsia and Borrelia stand out. In Mexico, previous studies have shown the presence of a member of the Ornithodoros talaje complex in the Virginia opossum (Didelphis virginiana Didelphimorphia: Didelphidae Kerr) from southeastern Mexico. However, its specific identification has not been achieved. Two D. virginiana were treated in a private clinic during the period of April–May 2022. Tick larvae were manually removed, DNA extraction was performed, and some genes from various bacterial and parasitic pathogens were amplified and sequenced. A total of 96 larvae were recovered, which were morphologically identified as Ornithodoros puertoricensis (Ixodida: Argasidae Fox); the 16 S sequences showed a similarity of 96.79%–99.51% with sequences of O. puertoricensis from Panama and Colombia. The presence of Rickettsia felis (Rickettsiales: Rickettsiaceae Bouyer et al.) was detected in 15 specimens from one host. The soft tick O. puertoricensis is recorded for the first time as an ectoparasite of the Virginia opossum in America and represents the second report for this soft tick in Mexico since 1963. This represents the most northern record of this tick species in its geographic distribution and brings a new soft tick‐Rickettsia association.
Bt maize can provide non‐chemical pest control and enhance food safety in China
Authors: Yang Xianming , Zhao Shengyuan , Liu Bing , Gao Yu , Hu Chaoxing , Li Wenjing , Yang Yizhong , Li Guoping , Wang Lili , Yang Xueqing , Yuan Haibin , Liu Jian , Liu Dazhong , Shen Xiujing , Wyckhuys Kris A. G. , Lu Yanhui , Wu Kongming
Published: November 2022

China is the world's second‐largest maize producer and consumer. In recent years, the invasive fall armyworm Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith) has adversely affected maize productivity and compromised food security. To mitigate pest‐inflicted food shortages, China's Government issued biosafety certificates for two genetically modified (GM) Bt maize hybrids, Bt‐Cry1Ab DBN9936 and Bt‐Cry1Ab/Cry2Aj Ruifeng 125, in 2019. Here, we quantitatively assess the impact of both Bt maize hybrids on pest feeding damage, crop yield and food safety throughout China's maize belt. Without a need to resort to synthetic insecticides, Bt maize could mitigate lepidopteran pest pressure by 61.9–97.3%, avoid yield loss by 16.4–21.3% (range −11.9–99.2%) and lower mycotoxin contamination by 85.5–95.5% as compared to the prevailing non‐Bt hybrids. Yield loss avoidance varied considerably between experimental sites and years, as mediated by on‐site infestation pressure and pest identity. For either seed mixtures or block refuge arrangements, pest pressure was kept below established thresholds at 90% Bt maize coverage in Yunnan (where S. frugiperda was the dominant species) and 70% Bt maize coverage in other sites dominated by Helicoverpa armigera (Hübner) and Ostrinia furnacalis (Guenée). Drawing on experiences from other crop/pest systems, Bt maize in se can provide area‐wide pest management and thus, contribute to a progressive phase‐down of chemical pesticide use. Hence, when consciously paired with agroecological and biodiversity‐based measures, GM insecticidal crops can ensure food and nutrition security, contribute to the sustainable intensification of China's agriculture and reduce food systems' environmental footprint.
Dehydration response in Stylosanthes scabra: Transcriptional, biochemical, and physiological modulations
Authors: Ferreira‐Neto José Ribamar Costa , de Araújo Flávia Czekalski , de Oliveira Silva Roberta Lane , de Melo Natoniel Franklin , Pandolfi Valesca , Frosi Gabriella , de Lima Morais David Anderson , da Silva Manassés Daniel , Rivas Rebeca , Santos Mauro Guida , de Tarso Aidar Saulo , Morgante Carolina Vianna , Benko‐Iseppon Ana Maria
Published: November 2022

Stylosanthes scabra, popularly known as stylo, is native to the Brazilian Caatinga semiarid region and stands out as a drought‐tolerant shrub forage crop. This work provides information about the plant response during the first 48 h of water deficit, followed by a rehydration treatment. Besides root transcriptomics data, 13 physiological or biochemical parameters were scrutinized. Additionally, RNA‐Seq annotated transcripts not associated with the “Viridiplantae” clade were taxonomically categorized. It was found that S. scabra quickly perceives and recovers from the oscillations of the imposed water regime. Physiologically, mechanisms that minimize evapotranspiration or protect the photosynthetic apparatus stood out. Biochemically, it was found that the root tissue invests in synthesizing compounds that can act as osmolytes (proline and sugars), emphasizing the importance of osmoregulation to water deficit acclimation. Consistently, transcriptome and qPCR analyses showed that a set of enriched biological processes with upregulated (UR) transcripts were involved in protective functions against reactive oxygen species or encoding enzymes of important metabolic pathways, which might contribute to S. scabra response to water deficit. Additionally, several UR kinases and transcription factors were identified. Finally, in an innovative approach, some naturally occurring microbial groups (such as Schizosaccharomyces, Bradyrhizobium, etc.) were identified in the S. scabra roots. This study reveals insights into the physiological, biochemical, and molecular mechanisms underlying the S. scabra response to water deficit and provides candidate genes that may be useful in developing drought‐tolerant crop varieties through biotechnological applications.
Massive gene rearrangements of mitochondrial genomes and implications for the phylogeny of Trichoptera (Insecta)
Authors: Ge Xinyu , Peng Lang , Vogler Alfried P. , Morse John C. , Yang Lianfang , Sun Changhai , Wang Beixin
Published: November 2022

Mitochondrial genomes have been widely used for phylogenetic reconstruction and evolutionary analysis in various groups of Insecta. Gene rearrangements in the mitogenome can be informative characters for phylogenetic reconstruction and adaptive evolution. Trichoptera is one of the most important groups of aquatic insects. Prior to this study, complete mitogenomes from Trichoptera were restricted to eight families, resulting in a biased view of their mitogenome structure and evolution. Here, we assemble new mitogenomes for 66 species by high‐throughput sequencing. The mitogenomes of 19 families and 47 genera are documented for the first time. Combined with 16 previously published mitogenomes of Trichoptera, we find 14 kinds of gene rearrangement patterns novel for Trichoptera, including rearrangement of protein‐coding genes, tRNAs and control regions. Simultaneously, we provide evidence for the occurrence of tandem duplication and non‐random loss events in the mitogenomes of three families. Phylogenetic analyses show that Hydroptilidae was recovered as a sister group to Annulipalpia. The increased nucleotide substitution rate and adaptive evolution may have affected the mitochondrial gene rearrangements in Trichoptera. Our study offers new insights into the mechanisms and patterns of mitogenome rearrangements in Insecta at large and into the usefulness of mitogenomic gene order as a phylogenetic marker within Trichoptera.
Defensive spines are associated with large geographic range but not diversification in spiny ants (Hymenoptera: Formicidae: Polyrhachis)
Authors: Blanchard Benjamin D. , Moreau Corrie S.
Published: November 2022

Several prominent evolutionary theories propose mechanisms whereby the evolution of a defensive trait or suite of traits causes significant shifts in species diversification rate and niche evolution. We investigate the role of cuticular spines, a highly variable morphological defensive trait in the hyperdiverse ant genus Polyrhachis, on species diversification and geographic range size. Informed by key innovation theory and the escape‐and‐radiate hypothesis, we predicted that clades with longer spines would exhibit elevated rates of diversification and larger range sizes compared to clades with shorter spines. To address these predictions, we estimated phylogenetic relationships with a phylogenomic approach utilizing ultraconserved elements and compiled morphological and biogeographic trait databases. In contrast to the first prediction, we found no association between diversification rate and any trait (spine length, body size and range size), with the sole exception of a positive association between range size and diversification in one of three trait‐based diversification analyses. However, we recovered a positive phylogenetic correlation between spine length and geographic range size, suggesting that spines promote expanded geographic range. Notably, these results were consistent across analyses using different phylogenetic inference approaches and spine trait measurement schemes. This study provides a rare investigation of the role of a defensive trait on geographic range size, and ultimately supports the hypothesis that defensive spines are a factor in increased range size in Polyrhachis ants. Furthermore, the lack of support for an association between spines and diversification, which contrasts with previous work demonstrating a positive association between spines and diversification rate, is intriguing and warrants further study.
Regional Language Variation in the German Curriculum
Authors: Pittman Iulia
Published: November 2022

German is a pluricentric language with many standard and nonstandard varieties. Students of German are usually unaware of its rich regional variation, and studies attribute this to limited resources and instructional time (van Kerckvoorde, 2012). The “DACH” model of teaching German, which includes linguistic and cultural elements from Germany (D), Austria (A), and Switzerland (CH), has constituted an effort to go somewhat beyond a model that exclusively teaches Standard German, from Germany. However, when not contextualized properly, DACH itself oversimplifies language variation, shifting the attention from one standard version of German to three. This article proposes that German's variation should be taught to students at all levels and may be considered in the framework of the ACTFL Guidelines and Standards. These strongly support learners' successful functioning in real‐world and authentic situations, including in dealing with varying dialects. This article will offer an overview of German language variation, it will outline how its integration is aligned with the ACTFL Guidelines (2012), and it will discuss some current instructional challenges. Finally, it will offer concrete examples for instructors by using existing sections from popular college German textbooks and by presenting several worksheets on dialect teaching for the novice, intermediate, and advanced levels.
English for specific business purposes in the United Arab Emirates
Authors: Nickerson Catherine
Published: November 2022

In this article, I explore how English is used for Specific Business Purposes (ESBP) in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) with reference to the world Englishes framework. I discuss the current status of English in the Emirate and I speculate on what this might mean for the future. I provide an overview of the ways in which English is used in business, including the co‐construction of English in many of the interactions that take place and the characteristics of those interactions, as well as identifying the models of English that are referred to in a number of common business genres. I use Business English and Business English as a Lingua Franca as significant examples of English for Specific Purposes, as they have contributed greatly to the UAE's economic development specifically, as well as to the development of the GCC region as a whole.
Computational Fluid Dynamics Study of Thermo-Fluid Characteristics of Solar Air Heater Duct Using W-Shaped Rib Roughened Collector Plate
Authors: Shakya Shailesh Kumar , Mahanand Yadaba , Senapati Jnana Ranjan
Published: November 2022

This study analyzes the thermo-fluid characteristics of the solar air heater duct (SAHD) consisting of W-shaped transverse ribs on the collector plate. The results of the study are presented with the appearance of Nusselt number, friction factor, thermo-hydraulic performance parameter (THPP), and contours of various fluid properties. Different roughness and flow parameters are considered for the computational study, like Reynolds number (Re) and nondimensional pitch (P/e). Re changes from 3800 to 18,000, and the nondimensional pitch changes from 7.5 to 18.75. The nondimensional height remains constant for the computational study. Aluminum was taken as the material of the absorber plate, and an isoheat-flux condition was employed on the plate with 1000 W/m2. The highest value of THPP obtained is 2.05 at P/e = 7.5 for Re = 12,000.
Effect of Base Fluids on the Initiation of Vortex Shedding for Nanofluid Flow Over a Circular Object
Authors: Garai Sourav , Mondal Bittagopal , Chatterjee Dipankar
Published: November 2022

An inherently steady separated flow of a nanofluid around a two-dimensional circular object can be transformed into an unsteady periodic flow by controlling the nanoparticle concentration. This has been established in the contemporary literature 2022 by Garai et al. (2022, “Triggering Vortex Shedding for the Free Stream Flow of Nanofluids Around Bluff Objects,” ASME J. Fluids Eng., 144(3), p. 034502.) using Cu–H2O and Ag–H2O nanofluids, where the base fluids remain the same (H2O) and the nanoparticles are different (Cu, Ag). However, it may be anticipated that changing the base fluid may cause certain alterations in the flow dynamics. Two different base fluids, e.g., propylene glycol (C3H8O2) and ethylene glycol (C2H6O2) are selected in which copper (Cu) nanoparticles are mixed to produce Cu–C3H8O2 and Cu–C2H6O2 nanofluids. The nanofluids flow over a circular object with Reynolds number in the range 15≤Re≤40. The Cu nanoparticle concentration is gradually increased and it is observed that the vortex shedding can be initiated with a lesser concentration of Cu in case of C3H8O2 based nanofluid compared to C2H6O2 and also H2O based nanofluids. Hence, the critical solid volume fractions (φcr) for Cu–C2H6O2 based nanofluid are more compared to Cu–C3H8O2 and Cu–H2O nanofluids. Further, φcr for all the nanofluids are found a decreasing function of Re in its chosen range. The critical solid fraction is estimated from an extended Stuart–Landau model and the phenomena are demonstrated qualitatively through the streamlines and vorticity contours and quantitatively through the lift signal analysis and phase diagrams. Finally, a regime diagram is constructed to demarcate the steady and unsteady zones of operation.
Biot Theory-based Finite Element Modeling of Continuous Ultrasound Propagation Through Microscale Articular Cartilage
Authors: Basu Sattik , Subramanian Anuradha , Rani Sarma
Published: November 2022

Low-intensity ultrasound has shown promise in promoting the healing and regeneration of cartilage degraded by osteoarthritis. In this study, a 2-D finite element method (FEM) model was developed for solving the Biot theory equations governing the propagation of continuous ultrasound through cartilage. Specifically, we compute the ultrasound-induced dilatations and displacements in microscale cartilage that is represented as consisting of four zones, namely the chondrocyte cell and its nucleus, the pericellular matrix (PCM) that forms a layer around the chondrocyte, and the extracellular matrix (ECM). The chondrocyte–PCM complex, referred to as the chondron, is embedded in the ECM. We model multiple cartilage configurations wherein the ECM layer contains chondrons along the depth, as well as laterally. The top surface of ECM layer is subjected to specified amplitude and frequency of continuous ultrasound. The resulting wave propagation is modeled by numerically solving the 2-D Biot equations for seven frequencies in the 0.5~MHz to 5~MHz range. It is seen that ultrasound is attenuated in the ECM and the attenuation increases monotonically with frequency. In contrast, manyfold augmentation of ultrasound amplitudes is observed inside the cytoplasm and nucleus of the chondrocyte. Chondrocytes act as a major sink of ultrasound energy, thereby reducing the depthwise propagation of ultrasound fluctuations. Regions of high dilatations and displacements were found at the ECM–PCM interface, PCM–chondrocyte interace, as well as in the cytoplasm and nucleus.
Complete Genome Sequence of Rhodococcus qingshengii N9T-4
Authors: Obi Nobuhiro , Moriuchi Ryota , Dohra Hideo , Kimbara Kazuhide , Shintani Masaki , Yoshida Nobuyuki
Published: November 2022

Rhodococcus qingshengii
N9T-4 can grow on media without added carbon sources. Here, we report the complete nucleotide sequence of the N9T-4 genome, consisting of a chromosome (6,439,972 bp), a linear plasmid (pN9T4-1 [565,206 bp]), and two circular plasmids (pN9T-4-2 [99,662 bp] and pN9T-4-3 [30,419 bp]).
Draft Genome Sequence of Bradyrhizobium denitrificans K2, Cultivated from an Air Ventilation Environment
Authors: Paul Dhiraj , Paasisalo Inga , Katainen Markku , Goffart Steffi , Pumpanen Jukka , Siljanen Henri M. P.
Published: November 2022

Bradyrhizobium denitrificans
K2, isolated from an air circulation environment, has potential genes participating in inorganic nitrogen and carbon cycling. The draft genome comprises 8.31 Mb, with 7,982 coding sequences and 64.81% average G+C content. Genes related to carbon and inorganic nitrogen cycling were observed in the draft genome.
Genome Sequences of Two Gordonia rubripertincta Cluster DJ Bacteriophages, Pherobrine and Burley
Authors: Adams Aaron J. , Bell Michael , Bennett Marie J. , Chaudhry Umar N. , Daniels Jennifer N. , Herman James E. , Oh Sophia A. , Parra Fedora , Reagan Cynthia R. , Zareiesfandabadi Borna , Fogarty Marie P.
Published: November 2022

Pherobrine and Burley are siphoviruses infecting
Gordonia rubripertincta
. Pherobrine has a 60,305-bp genome with 89 predicted protein-coding genes, and Burley has a 60,111-bp genome with 90 predicted protein-coding genes. Both phages are assigned to cluster DJ, where they share 78% gene content similarity with each other.
Detection of SARS-CoV-2 in Saliva and Nasopharyngeal Swabs According to Viral Variants
Authors: Salmona Maud , Chaix Marie-Laure , Feghoul Linda , Mahjoub Nadia , Maylin Sarah , Schnepf Nathalie , Jacquier Hervé , Walle Eve-Marie , Helary Marion , Mellon Guillaume , Osinski Nathalie , Zebiche Widad , Achili Yacine , Amarsy Rishma , Mahé Véronique , Le Goff Jérôme , Delaugerre Constance
Published: November 2022

Established methods for SARS-CoV-2 diagnostics might require revalidation with the emergence of novel variants. This is important for screening strategy programs and for the investigation of the characteristics of new variants in terms of tropism modification and increased viral burden leading to its spread.
Intestinal Dominance by Multidrug-Resistant Bacteria in Pediatric Liver Transplant Patients
Authors: Dahdouh Elias , Fernández-Tomé Lorena , Cendejas-Bueno Emilio , Ruiz-Carrascoso Guillermo , Schüffelmann Cristina , Alós-Díez María , Lázaro-Perona Fernando , Castro-Martínez Mercedes , Escosa-García Luis , Jiménez-Rodríguez Sonia , Hierro-Llanillo Loreto , Mingorance Jesús
Published: November 2022

In this study, we track the relative intestinal loads of antibiotic resistance genes among pediatric liver transplant patients and determine the relationship between this load, antibiotic consumption, and infections caused by antibiotic-resistant organisms. We demonstrate that the consumption of broad spectrum antibiotics increase this load and decrease the gut microbial diversity among these patients.
Supplemental Material: Eustatic change modulates exhumation in the Japanese Alps
Authors: King Georgina E. , al. et
Published: November 2022

Sample preparation and measurement details, thermochronometry, and stream and equilibrium line altitude modeling. 
Acute postprandial gut hormone, leptin, glucose and insulin responses to resistant starch in obese children: a single blind crossover study
Authors: Suntharesan Jananie , Atapattu Navoda , Jasinghe Eresha , Ekanayake Sagarika , de Silva Delpachitra Acharige Gajabahu Haren , Dunseath Gareth , Luzio Steohan , Premawardhana Lakdasa
Published: November 2022

Introduction

Resistant starch (RS) has beneficial effects on postprandial glucose metabolism in both animals and adults. Hitherto, there have been no studies in children of the acute metabolic and hormonal effects of RS-containing meals.

Objectives

We aimed to compare serial plasma glucose, insulin, gut hormone, leptin profiles and satiety scores in obese children after meals containing variable amounts of RS.

Methods

This was a single blind, non-randomised, crossover study of 20 obese children aged 10–14 years old without comorbidities. Three test meals containing rice (M1), rice cooked with coconut oil (M2), rice cooked in coconut oil with lentils (M3) were given in sequence after a 12-hour fast . Blood samples were analysed for glucose (PG), insulin, leptin, glucagon-like polypeptide (GLP) 1, ghrelin and peptide YY (PYY) at appropriate times between 0 and 180 min.

Results

Meal M2 resulted in significantly lower postprandial glucose values compared with meal M1 (maximal incremental glucose, ∆Cmax, p<0.05; area under the curve, ∆AUC0–3, p<0.01) and meal M3 (maximal concentration, Cmax, p<0.01; ∆Cmax, p<0.001, and ∆AUC0–3p<0.01). M2 also produced lower insulin values compared with M1 (p<0.05). Postprandial ghrelin was significantly higher after M1 compared with M3 (p<0.05). PYY, GLP1 and median satiety scores were not significantly different between the three meals.

Conclusion

This study shows that M2, the meal containing RS alone, induced beneficial effects on acute postprandial glucose, insulin and ghrelin concentrations in obese children without diabetes. Acute postprandial satiety scores were not significantly affected by the three meals.

Trial registration number

SLCTR/2020/007.
Relativistic models for vanishing complexity factor and isotropic star in embedding Class I spacetime using extended geometric deformation approach
Authors: Maurya S. K. , Govender M. , Mustafa G. , Nag Riju
Published: November 2022

In this work, we employ the Karmarkar condition together with the notion of vanishing complexity (Herrera in Phys Rev D 97:044010, 2018) and isotropization technique to generate models of compact stars within the framework of complete geometric deformation. Starting off with the Kuchowicz ansatz as one of the metric potentials for the seed solution, we impose the Karmarkar condition to obtain fully the gravitational behaviour of a static compact object with anisotropic pressure. This solution is then subjected to the complete geometric deformation algorithm. The novelty in our work is to impose the condition of vanishing complexity and isotropization techniques in order to derive the deformation functions. We present two solutions of the resulting governing equations which are subjected to physical viability tests. We demonstrate that the presence of pressure anisotropy within the bounded object plays a key role in determining its stability. In addition, we show that the magnitude of the decoupling constant determines the direction of energy flow between the generic fluid and the fluid matter distribution.
Baryogenesis and gravitational waves in the Zee–Babu model
Authors: Phong Vo Quoc , Thao Nguyen Chi , Long Hoang Ngoc
Published: November 2022

To explain the matter-antimatter asymmetry in the Zee–Babu (ZB) model, the sphaleron process in the baryogenesis scenario is calculated. It always satisfies the de-coupling condition and the strength of phase transition (S) is always greater than 1 in the presence of triggers other than that in the Standard Model, which are singly ($$h^{\pm }$$

h
±

) and doubly ($$k^{\pm \pm }$$

k

±
±

) charged scalar bosons. Sphaleron energies are in the range of 5-10 TeV, in calculation with bubble profiles containing free parameters and assuming nuclear bubbles of $$h^{\pm }$$

h
±

and $$k^{\pm \pm }$$

k

±
±

are very small. We tested the scaling law of sphaleron again with an average error of $$10\%$$

10
%

. When the temperature is close to the critical one ($$T_c$$

T
c

), the density of nuclear bubble is produced very large and decreases as the temperature decreases. The key parameter is $$\alpha $$
α
which results in the gravitational wave density parameter ($$\Omega h^2$$

Ω

h
2

) in the range of $$10^{-14}$$

10

-
14

to $$10^{-12}$$

10

-
12

when $$\beta /H^*=22.5$$

β
/

H
∗

=
22.5

, this is not enough to detect gravitational waves from electroweak phase transition (EWPT) according to the present LISA data but may be detected in the future. As the larger strength of phase transition is, the more $$\alpha $$
α
increases (this increase is almost linear with S), the larger the gravitational wave density parameter is. Also in the context of considering the generation of gravitational waves, in the ZB model we calculated $$\alpha \sim \text {a few} \times 10^{-2}\ll 1$$

α
∼
a few
×

10

-
2

≪
1

, so rigorously conclude that the EWPT is not strong even though $$S>1$$

S
>
1

. We also suggest that, for a model with a lot of extra scalar particles and particles which play a role in mass generation, the stronger the EWPT process and the larger $$\Omega h^2$$

Ω

h
2

can be.
Japan’s National Security Policy and Regional Affairs
Authors: SELF Benjamin
Published: November 2022

Japan’s balancing against Chinese power stretches across military, economic and soft power domains, representing a comprehensive effort to preserve the status quo against revisionism, working alone and with partners. Nonetheless, Japanese firms still depend on trade with China and business leaders expect continued expansion of the bilateral economic relationship. No single strategy drives Tokyo’s approach, which is the result of diverse interests in a pluralistic system.
Correcting a PLCζ Mutation in the Human Germ Line to Overcome Hereditary Infertility
Authors: BEKAERT Bieke , BOEL Annekatrien , DE WITTE Lisa , POPOVIC Mina , STAMATIADIS Panagiotis , COSEMANS Gwenny , TORDEURS Lise , MARINA CHUVA DE SOUSA LOPES Susana , DE SUTTER Petra , MENTEN Björn , STOOP Dominic , COUCKE Paul , HEINDRYCKX Björn
Published: November 2022

Human germline gene correction by CRISPR/Cas9 holds great promise to eliminate transmission of genetic mutations. Recent studies have however made troublesome observations of mosaicism (the occurrence of multiple genetic events in one embryo) and loss-of-heterozygosity (LOH, loss of the allele of one of the parents), the latter being either caused by inter-homologue homologous recombination (IH-HR) or chromosome loss events. As a proof-of-concept we targeted a heterozygous base pair substitution mutation in PLCZ1, leading to subfertility. After CRISPR/Cas9 editing, we detected in 26% (7/27) of the targeted embryos that originated from mutant sperm only, wild-type alleles upon analysis, which were not obtained by exogenous repair template use. In these seven embryos, we observed a significant amount of LOH events (14%) that spanned regions beyond the PLCZ1 gene, but did not stretch the complete analysed region, pointing to IH-HR, next to a large proportion of samples (57%) showing potential but non-detectable (i.e. below the resolution of our assay) LOH. In addition, a minority of embryos (29%) showed LOH across the whole analysed region. Remarkably, also 10% of the embryos originating from wild-type sperm showed LOH events, underscoring the subpar specificity of the CRIPSR/Cas9 system. Single-cell analysis demonstrated mosaicism in 80% (4/5) of the targeted embryos, warranting caution for trophectoderm biopsy interpretation in future human embryo editing attempts. Lastly, a correction rate of 75% was observed in our single-cell data which illustrates that the correction rate was possibly underestimated when looking at the whole-embryo level.
Implications of Posthumous Care — The Experience of the Surviving Partner
Authors: DICKINSON Narelle , GAFFNEY Jennifer
Published: November 2022

Background: Posthumous assisted conception remains controversial, and in providing this form of care, it is critical that fertility clinics consider the potential effects on the welfare of the person to be born, as well as any existing children already within the family unit. The NHMRC provides clear clinical guidelines for the collection, storage and use of gametes or embryos posthumously, however care providers rarely have an opportunity to gain a genuine understanding of the experience for a bereaved spouse undertaking this form of treatment.

Aim: To explore the social and psychological implications of undertaking posthumous care, for the surviving partner of the deceased person, their broader family and the child.

Method: Brief examination of the social and psychological implications of posthumous care. Personal case presentation by a surviving partner who has completed treatment using posthumous care.

Conclusion: The personal experience of undertaking posthumous care will be examined, as provided within the relevant NHMRC clinical guidelines.
The Science of IVM
Authors: GILCHRIST Robert
Published: November 2022

Oocyte in vitro maturation (IVM) makes use of oocytes from patients that have received minimal or no gonadotrophin stimulation. Whilst this brings many advantages to patients, this typically means oocytes are collected from small-medium sized (4-12 mm) antral follicles. These oocytes are under-developed, and yet removal of these from the follicle and culture in vitro leads to spontaneous oocyte meiotic maturation, without the benefit of the physiological signals that naturally induce oocyte maturation at ovulation. Using animals models, over the past decade seminal advances have been made in our understanding of the fundamental mechanisms regulating oocyte maturation in vivo. Most IVM systems, as practised clinically today, typically do not recapitulate these key cellular processes, possibly accounting for the lower efficiency of IVM compared to IVF. A key objective of modern approaches to IVM is to restore in vitro, as far as possible, the natural processes that occur during oocyte maturation in vivo. One strategy to achieve this in IVM is to: 1) prevent spontaneous meiotic resumption at oocyte collection using phosphodiesterase inhibitors, then 2) artificially maintain or elevate cumulus-oocyte complex (COC) cAMP levels, and finally to 3) induce oocyte meiotic resumption using EGF-like peptides. This typically requires the use of biphasic or 2-step IVM systems. One such biphasic IVM system is called capacitation-IVM (CAPA-IVM), as the oocyte is “capacitated” for development in vitro. CAPA-IVM uses the follicle’s natural oocyte meiotic inhibitor, c-type natriuretic peptide (CNP), in the pre-IVM phase, and amphiregulin as the oocyte meiotic inducer in the second IVM phase. Such biphasic-IVM systems typically lead to subsequent improvements in embryo yield compared to standard IVM, and indeed this is the case for CAPA-IVM. Several pilot RCTs and a large RCT of CAPA-IVM vs conventional IVF have been completed, and CAPA-IVM is now practiced in a few centres globally and is commencing in Sydney. The development and clinical application of modern IVM systems, built on decades of animal scientific research, is a bench-to-bedside success story of biomedical research. IVM is now a viable minimally invasive procedure for the treatment of infertility and for fertility preservation in female cancer patients.
Mifepristone Followed by Misoprostol Compared with Placebo Followed by Misoprostol as Medical Treatment for Early Pregnancy Loss (the Triple M trial): A Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Randomised Trial
Authors: HAMEL Charlotte , COPPUS Sjors , VAN DEN BERG Joyce , HINK Esther , VAN SEETERS Jacoba , VAN KESTEREN Paul , MERIEN Ashley , TORRENGA Bas , VAN DE LAAR Rafli , VAN SCHELTINGA Josien Terwisscha , GAUGLER-SENDEN Ingrid , GRAZIOSI Peppino , VAN RUMSTE Minouche , NELISSEN Ewka , VANDENBUSSCHE Frank , SNIJDERS Marcus
Published: November 2022

Background: Worldwide, millions of women seek treatment for early pregnancy loss (EPL) annually. Medical management with misoprostol is widely used, but only effective 60% of the time. Pre-treatment with mifepristone prior to misoprostol might improve the success rate of medical management.

Methods: This was a multi-centre, double-blind, placebo-controlled randomised trial in 17 Dutch hospitals. Women with a non-viable pregnancy between 6 and 14 weeks of gestation were eligible for inclusion after at least one week of expectant management. Participants were randomised (1:1) between oral mifepristone 600 mg or an oral placebo tablet. Participants took 400 mg misoprostol orally, repeated after four hours on day two and, if necessary, day three. Primary outcome was expulsion of gestational sac and endometrial thickness <15 mm after 68 weeks. Analyses were done according to intention-to-treat principles. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03212352.

Findings: Between June 28th 2018 and January 8th 2020, 175 women were randomised to mifepristone and 176 to placebo, including 344 in the intention-to-treat analysis. In the mifepristone group 136 (79.1%) of 172 participants reached complete evacuation compared to 101 (58.7%) of 172 participants in the placebo group (p<0.0001, RR 1.35, 95% CI 1.16-1.56). Incidence of serious adverse events was significantly lower in the mifepristone group with 24 (14%) patients affected versus 55 (32%) in the placebo group (p = 0.0005).

Interpretation: Pre-treatment with mifepristone prior to misoprostol was more effective than misoprostol alone in managing EPL.
Is Frozen Embryo Transfer the New Norm in IVF?
Authors: KOLIBIANAKIS Stratis
Published: November 2022

Frozen embryo transfer is an established, highly successful technology in Assisted Reproductive Technologies.

Its use as a part of a freeze only strategy is associated with a higher probability of live birth in high responders and a decrease incidence of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS).

Its use in normal responders, maintains the probability of live birth compared to fresh embryo transfer and decreases the incidence of OHSS.

Obstetric n neonatal outcomes in frozen as compared to fresh embryo transfer cycles are characterized by a decreased incidence of monozygotic twinning, of ectopic pregnancy, of small for gestational age babies, of premature labour, of antepartum hemorrhage and of perinatal mortality.

On the other hand, an increased incidence of pregnancy induced hypertension, has been observed in frozen as compared to fresh embryo transfer cycles. This, however, appears to be associated with the absence of corpus luteum during endometrium preparation for embryo transfer, as is the case in frozen embryo transfer cycles using hormonal replacement.

Overall, the increased efficacy and a safety present, if fresh embryo transfer following ovarian stimulation is avoided, redefine what should be the norm in modern in-vitro fertilization practice.
Cancer Risk for Mothers and Babies After ART
Authors: VAJDIC Claire
Published: November 2022

There is marked uncertainty regarding the risk of cancer for mothers and babies after exposure to assisted reproductive technologies (ART). ART exposes women to high doses of endogenous steroid hormones. This exposure is a continuing source of concern for patients and the medical profession, primarily because of the potential carcinogenic effects on hormone responsive tissues such as the breast, the endometrium and the ovary. Similar concerns have been expressed regarding fetal exposure to exogenous hormones, as well as potential carcinogenic effects on eggs, sperm and embryos through epigenetic changes. In this presentation the latest epidemiological evidence on the site-specific and overall risk of cancer in mothers and babies exposed to ART will be synthesised. The evidence in relation to different treatment modalities and potential confounding factors will also be reviewed. Additionally, an overview of current NHMRC-funded studies that will add to this evidence base will be presented.
Uterine Surgery and Fertility
Authors: VANCAILLIE Thierry , FRANZCOG  , FFPMANZCA
Published: November 2022

In this presentation I will attempt to present the pathophysiology of a number of uterine conditions. Subsequent to that, I will review the evidence as well as my personal experience in addressing these conditions.

Within my practice, the conditions presenting for treatment are as follows, in order of incidence: intra-uterine synechia (Asherman syndrome), Endometrial rejuvenation, uterine septum and other Mullerian anomalies, Cesarean Section revision and finally uterine fibroids.
Disaster Management in the IVF LAB
Authors: WALE Petra
Published: November 2022

Assisted Reproductive Technologies have evolved to become an everyday treatment for infertility. Clinics and laboratories dedicated to the development and cryopreservation of gametes and embryos, are found in all parts of the world, not in just developed countries. This widespread presence of ART clinics has meant that reports of rare natural disasters, or other destructive events upending the normalcy of clinics and hospitals, have increased in frequency. In turn this has provided the opportunity to learn from the experience of others. This presentation will consider how ART clinics worldwide have developed well-thought-out disaster management plans to ensure the continuation of patient care.