bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
P-531 Embryo grading in PGT-A testing: does it really matter?
Authors: Terribile M , Finelli R , Thavarajah E , Wilding M , Nargund G 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Study question
Can embryo morphology grading be a good parameter to predict the embryo transfer’s outcome when euploid embryos are used?

Summary answer
Gardner’s grading is a useful predictor of LBR per euploid embryo transferred. Morphologic grading should be used for the embryo selection among euploid blastocysts.

What is known already
When preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidies (PGT-A) is not performed, the selection of the embryo(s) to be transferred is based on embryo morphology. In PGT-A cycle, some studies have minimised the importance of embryo morphology, when euploid embryos are present. However, others still consider it as good predictor. Understanding the role of morphology in biopsied euploid embryos may help in optimizing frozen embryo transfer cycles.

Study design, size, duration
We retrospectively analysed PGT-A frozen embryo transfers with reported outcome, performed in our clinics between 2018 and 2022. The cycles included were divided into two groups based on Gardner’s grading of euploid embryos transferred: “good” embryos (AA, AB, BA and BB; n = 263) versus “poor” embryos (including AC, CA, BC, CB, and CC; n =112).

Participants/materials, setting, methods
We included in the study only single euploid embryo transfers, double embryos transfers and mosaic embryo transfers excluded. Body mass index (BMI), oocyte age and outcomes (pregnancy and live birth rates) were compared between the two groups. Data was statistically analysed using MedCalc Software, where P &lt; 0.05 was considered as significant.

Main results and the role of chance
A total of 375 embryo transfer cycles were included in the study. Maternal ages were not significantly different between groups (good vs poor embryos) (37.5 vs 38.2). Similarly, oocyte age (37.7 vs 38.1, respectively), and BMI (22 vs 22.7, respectively) did not differ between good and poor embryos. On the contrary, clinical pregnancy (56.6% vs 40.1%) and live birth rates (27.7% vs 13.4%) were significantly higher when morphologically good grade embryos were transferred (p &lt; 0.05). In fact, both rates were significantly higher after the transfer of blastocysts that exhibited A-grade or B-grade in inner cell mass and/or trophectoderm, as opposed to the transfers of blastocysts that exhibited a C-grade trophectoderm and/or inner cell mass.

Limitations, reasons for caution
The findings apply to the participating centres and may not represent worldwide trends. Data was analysed retrospectively, but details of the follow-up on PGT pregnancies and babies born were limited. The degree of blastocyst expansion and the day of biopsy were not taken into consideration in this study.

Wider implications of the findings
The Gardner embryo quality assessment improves the clinics’ ability to prioritize embryos after PGT. Preferential transfer based on morphologic criteria increases the chances of a positive outcome in terms of live birth rates.

Trial registration number
not applicable
P-559 Pregnancy rates in conventional and non-invasive pre-implantation genetic testing – a multicentric retrospective cohort study
Authors: Gamane N , Modi D , Murdia N , Murdia K , Chandra V , Shah N , Bhoi N 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Study question
To determine the pregnancy rates with embryo diagnosed as euploid by non-invasive preimplantation genetic testing (niPGT-A) and trophectoderm based pre-implantation genetic testing (cPGT-A)

Summary answer
Biochemical pregnancy rates are comparable in couples undergoing transfer with embryos diagnosed as euploid as judged by niPGT-A or cPGT-A

What is known already
NiPGT-A utilizes cell-free DNA in culture media to assess the chromosomal status of embryos. Several studies have shown that the niPGT-A and cPGT-A have a reasonable concordance rate and niPGT-A can be considered as an alternative in predicting the ploidy status of the embryos. However, limited information exist on the clinical outcomes of embryos deemed euploid by niPGT-A.

Study design, size, duration
Data of 1209 participants between June 2022 and Dec 2022 was collected from 46 centers of Indira IVF Hospital. These were couples who had experienced recurrent implantation failures (&gt;3 failed ET), recurrent miscarriages (&gt;2 miscarriages) or had advanced maternal age (&gt;35 years) and opting either for niPGT-A or cPGT-A at our centres for euploid embryo transfers. Women with anatomical uterine defects and Asherman syndrome were excluded.

Participants/materials, setting, methods
Trophectoderm biopsy was done in 1383 Day 5 grade A embryos and PGT-A was done using NGS. Culture media of 3083 Grade A embryos were collected on D5 or D6 and frozen. NGS was done at an external facility. Embryos deemed euploid in either of the groups were transferred. Biochemical pregnancy was determined by measurements of beta hCG.

Main results and the role of chance
There were 906 patients in the niPGT-A group and 303 in the cPGT-A group. The clinical characteristics of the participants were comparable in both groups. Biochemical pregnancy rates were 60% and 69%, respectively. This difference was not statistically significant (p &lt; 0.6). The euploidy rates were comparable in the niPGT-A and cPGT-A groups (40% and 46%) respectively. The aneuploidy rates were lower in the niPGT-A group as compared to the cPGT-A group (15% vs 26%). The mosaicism rates were higher in the niPGT-A group as compared to the cPGT-A group.

Limitations, reasons for caution
This is a preliminary data analysis of only the biochemical pregnancy rates. Clinical pregnancy, miscarriage, and live birth outcomes are subject to further investigation.

Wider implications of the findings
The study will aid IVF specialist to consider niPGT-A as a possible alternative to cPGT-A in clinical practice.

Trial registration number
’not applicable’
Suction Feeding Turned on Its Head: A Functional Novelty Facilitates Lower Jaw Protrusion
Authors: Martinez Christopher M , Mazon Rizelle Mae M , Stiassny Melanie L J 
Published: July 2024

Synopsis
Functional novelties play important roles in creating new ways for organisms to access resources. In fishes, jaw protrusion has been attributed to the massive diversity of suction-based feeding systems, facilitating the dominant mode of prey capture in this group. Nearly all fishes that feed by suction use upper jaw protrusion, achieved by rotation of the mandible at its base, which then transmits forward motion to independently mobile upper jaw bones. In this study, by contrast, we explore an unusual form of lower jaw protrusion in the freshwater invertivore, Nannocharax fasciatus, enabled by a novel intramandibular joint (IMJ). We combine morphological, kinematic, and biomechanical data to show that the added mobility created by the IMJ influences the pattern of suction-based prey capture movements and contributes to lower jaw protrusion (increasing it by 25%, based on biomechanical modeling). Interestingly, the upper jaw bones are fused in N. fasciatus and rotate about a single fixed joint, like the lower jaws of most other suction feeding fishes. We suggest that this vertical inversion of the jaw protrusion mechanism for ventrally directed suction-feeding on benthic prey is a likely exaptation, as the IMJ is used for biting in related taxa. This work highlights the ability of novelties to facilitate ecological specialization by enabling new functional capabilities.
Otoliths as chemical archives through ontogeny reveal distinct migratory strategies of Atlantic halibut within the Gulf of St. Lawrence
Authors: Gauthier Charlotte , Fisher Jonathan A D , Robert Dominique , Sirois Pascal 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
In marine fishes of commercial interest, defining habitat use and migration strategies through ontogeny can help better understand the structure and dynamics of harvested populations and guide their management. The present study relied on otolith chemistry to identify three contingents within the Atlantic halibut (Hippoglossus hippoglossus) stock in the Gulf of St. Lawrence (GSL). We differentiated two chemical signatures from otolith edges, one for shallow (&lt;100 m) and another one for deep (&gt;100 m) waters. By identifying transitions between the deep and shallow habitats, we found that most halibut display migrations from the deep waters to shallow waters during the first 3 years of life. After reaching maturity, most halibut distributing in northern regions of the GSL became full-time residents in deep areas of the GSL. In contrast, halibut found in summer on the shallow plateau of the southern GSL displayed migrating behaviour between shallow (summer) and deep (winter) waters throughout their lives, either on an annual or irregular basis. Overall, our results demonstrate that otolith chemical signatures serve as natural markers of geographically distinct marine environments, facilitating the identification and reconstruction of environmental histories of long-lived marine fishes.
Border Barriers and Illicit Trade Flows
Authors: Carter David B , Donahue Bailee , Williams Rob 
Published: July 2024

Abstracts
The number of fortified borders around the world has risen precipitously. This surge in walls is an important part of the larger globalization “backlash,” as countries react to the unwanted consequences of economic openness and globalization, with a rise in illicit trade and smuggling being a prominent example. Despite the prominence of the idea that walls are built to combat illicit flows, no research systematically explores how walls generally affect illicit trade. This is a notable omission for at least two reasons. First, the most prominent explanations for wall construction put combating illicit trade front and center. Second, recent work that finds walls significantly reduce legal trade argues that this finding derives from border fortifications diverting illegal trade to ports of entry, which leads to more inspection, security, and transaction costs. We develop a new measure of illicit trade flows using over five decades of product-level data and provide a battery of evidence that shows border barriers increase illicit flows at ports of entry.
Cross-transmission of Acinetobacter junii carrying blaOXA-58 in a neonatal ICU
Authors: Boudjella-Senhadji I , Bour M , Potron A , Lorme F , Belal-Khedim L , Razafimahefa H , Lecointe D 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background
Nasal colonization of two preterm infants in our neonatal ICU by Acinetobacter junii carrying the blaOXA-58 carbapenem resistance gene was demonstrated.

Objectives
To study whether the two isolates were identical and to investigate the hypotheses of cross-transmission.

Methods
Antibiotic susceptibility tests of the two isolates were performed by standard diffusion and the MICs of carbapenems determined by the MIC-gradient strip method. The blaOXA-58 gene was detected by PCR. Isolates were compared using SNP analysis performed after WGS. The timelines of the two cases were determined based on the investigations and the study of the patients’ records.

Results
The two isolates corresponded to the same strain, with case 1 being the index case, demonstrating cross-transmission to case 2.

Conclusions
Acquisition of the strain was likely due to the recent carbapenem treatment of case 1 and cross-transmission due to the high amount of care administered to the two preterm infants. This is the first description of cross-transmission of A. junii carrying the blaOXA-58 gene.
Clinical manifestations and treatment outcomes for patients with Pseudomonas endocarditis
Authors: Shah Sunish , Clarke Lloyd , Davis Matthew W , Topal Jeffrey E , Shields Ryan K 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Objectives
To investigate clinical outcomes of patients with Pseudomonas endocarditis and identify factors associated with treatment failure.

Methods
Adult patients meeting definitive Duke’s criteria for Pseudomonas endocarditis at 11 hospitals were identified between May 2000 and February 2024. Failure was defined as death or microbiological failure by day 42. First-line therapy consisted of cefepime, piperacillin/tazobactam, ceftazidime or ceftolozane/tazobactam alone or in combination.

Results
Forty-eight patients met inclusion criteria; 29% were persons who inject drugs and 13% were organ transplant recipients. Pseudomonas aeruginosa was the causative species in 98% of cases. Patients who experienced 42 day cure were more likely to be initially managed with first-line β-lactam agents compared with those who experienced clinical failure (97% versus 62%, P = 0.004). Treatment with first-line β-lactams was associated with shorter time to treatment initiation and a lower likelihood of infection due to MDR Pseudomonas spp. In the univariate model, patients who experienced 90 day mortality were more likely to have prosthetic valve endocarditis (57% versus 24%, P = 0.02), an intracardiac complication (36% versus 9%, P = 0.04) and a higher median (IQR) Pitt bacteraemia score [2.5 (2–3.8) versus 1 (0–2), P = 0.048]. Combination therapy did not improve clinical outcomes but did increase the rate of adverse effects resulting in drug discontinuation compared with monotherapy, (21% versus 0%, P = 0.08).

Conclusions
This is the largest study of Pseudomonas endocarditis to date. We identified improved clinical outcomes when cefepime, piperacillin/tazobactam, ceftazidime or ceftolozane/tazobactam were used for initial treatment. We did not identify a clinical benefit for combination treatment.
Heritability estimates and genome-wide association study of methane emission traits in Nellore cattle
Authors: Souza Luana Lelis , Dominguez-Castaño Pablo , Gianvecchio Sarah Bernardes , Sakamoto Leandro Sannomiya , Rodrigues Gustavo Roberto Dias , Soares Tainara Luana da Silva , Bonilha Sarah Figueiredo Martins , Marcatto Juliana de Oliveira Santos , Galvão Albuquerque Lucia , Vasconcelos Silva Josineudson Augusto II , Zerlotti Mercadante Maria Eugênia 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
The objectives of the present study were to estimate the heritability for daily methane emission (CH4) and residual daily methane emission (CH4res) in Nellore cattle, as well as to perform genome-wide association studies (GWAS) to identify genomic regions and candidate genes influencing the genetic variation of CH4 and CH4res. Methane emission phenotypes of 743 Nellore animals belonging to 3 breeding programs were evaluated. CH4 was measured using the sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) tracer technique (which involves an SF6 permeation tube introduced into the rumen, and an appropriate apparatus on each animal), and CH4res was obtained as the difference between observed CH4 and CH4 adjusted for dry matter intake. A total of 6,252 genotyped individuals were used for genomic analyses. Data were analyzed with a univariate animal model by the single-step GBLUP method using the average information restricted maximum likelihood (AIREML) algorithm. The effects of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were obtained using a single-step GWAS approach. Candidate genes were identified based on genomic windows associated with quantitative trait loci (QTLs) related to the 2 traits. Annotation of QTLs and identification of candidate genes were based on the initial and final coordinates of each genomic window considering the bovine genome ARS-UCD1.2 assembly. Heritability estimates were of moderate to high magnitude, being 0.42 ± 0.09 for CH4 and 0.21 ± 0.09 for CH4res, indicating that these traits will respond rapidly to genetic selection. GWAS revealed 11 and 15 SNPs that were significantly associated (P &lt; 10−6) with genetic variation of CH4 and CH4res, respectively. QTLs associated with feed efficiency, residual feed intake, body weight, and height overlapped with significant markers for the traits evaluated. Ten candidate genes were present in the regions of significant SNPs; 3 were associated with CH4 and 7 with CH4res. The identified genes are related to different functions such as modulation of the rumen microbiota, fatty acid production, and lipid metabolism. CH4 and CH4res presented sufficient genetic variation and may respond rapidly to selection. Therefore, these traits can be included in animal breeding programs aimed at reducing enteric methane emissions across generations.
Influence of habitat on fine-scale space use by brown lemmings (Lemmus trimucronatus) in the High Arctic
Authors: Valcourt Marianne , Fauteux Dominique , Gauthier Gilles 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Space use by small mammals should mirror their immediate needs for food and predator shelters but can also be influenced by seasonal changes in biotic and abiotic factors. Lemmings are keystone species of the tundra food web, but information on their spatial distribution in relation to habitat heterogeneity is still scant, especially at a fine scale. In this study, we used spatially explicit capture–recapture methods to determine how topography, hydrology, vegetation, and soil characteristics influence the fine-scale spatial variations in summer density of brown lemmings (Lemmus trimucronatus). Lemmings were monitored throughout the summer in wet and mesic tundra habitats and in a predator exclusion grid, which was also located in mesic tundra. We found that in wet tundra, lemming densities were higher at sites with a rugged topography dominated by hummocks, but only during snow melt. In both mesic tundra sites, lemming densities were higher in sites with poor drainage and low aspect throughout the summer. We found no clear association between lemming densities and any tested vegetation or soil variables. Overall, hydrology and topography appear to play a dominant role in small-scale space use of brown lemmings with a secondary role for predator avoidance and food plant abundance.
Reliability and validity of the Japanese version of the Survey of Perceived Organizational Support
Authors: Odagami Kiminori , Nagata Tomohisa , Eguchi Hisashi , Inoue Akiomi , Mafune Kosuke , Mori Koji 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Objectives
This study aimed to examine the reliability and validity of the Japanese version of the Survey of Perceived Organizational Support (SPOS-J) for the Japanese workforce.

Methods
The translation of the SPOS into Japanese followed the International Society for Pharmacoeconomics and Outcomes Research (ISPOR) Task Force guidelines. An online baseline survey with 6220 Japanese workers assessed the SPOS-J and related scales, followed by a follow-up survey with 452 respondents 2 weeks later. We developed the SPOS-J and evaluated its factorial, convergent, and known-group validities, as well as its internal consistency, test–retest reliability, and interpretability.

Results
Exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis (EFA and CFA) indicated that the SPOS-J, diverging from the original version’s 1-factor structure, adopted a 2-factor structure comprising 2 subscales: the SPOS-J (Sufficiency of Positive Aspects [SPA]) and the SPOS-J (Minimality of Negative Aspects [MNA]). The final version of the SPOS-J, consisting of 8 items selected by the item response theory analysis, demonstrated acceptable model fit in the CFA. Cronbach a values for SPOS-J (SPA) and SPOS-J (MNA) were .92 and .84; intraclass coefficients were 0.72 and 0.55, respectively. The correlations between SPOS-J (SPA) and related variables, as well as the score distributions by demographic characteristics, supported the convergent and known-group validity of SPOS-J (SPA). In contrast, SPOS-J (MNA) showed lower correlation coefficients with all related variables and supported known-group validity.

Conclusions
The SPOS-J (SPA), a subscale of the 8-item SPOS-J, is a reliable and valid measure for assessing perceived organizational support among Japanese workers.
Physical activity and exercise motivation of multiple myeloma patients: a prospective cross-sectional study
Authors: Räder Jan , Ihorst Gabriele , Möller Mandy-Deborah , Pahl Antonia , Greil Christine , Dreyling Esther , Arends Jann , Deibert Peter , Wäsch Ralph , Engelhardt Monika 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background
Multiple myeloma (MM) is the second most common hematological malignancy with its prevalence increasing. Patients with symptomatic MM can show numerous comorbidities, affecting their quality of life (QoL). Physical activity (PA) may improve QoL but is not a standardized intervention of comprehensive cancer centers (CCCs). Since data on the PA of patients with MM are scarce, we aimed to prospectively assess fitness levels and patients’ motivation to join PA-interventions at our CCC.

Methods
We generated an exercise questionnaire to interview consecutive patients MM. We prospectively collected data on (a) past and current PA, defined by the World Health Organization (WHO) recommendations, (b) knowledge on exercise effects, (c) exercise motivation, and (d) willingness to participate in PA-interventions. Demographics, comorbidities, response, progression-free survival (PFS), and overall survival (OS) were assessed in 211 symptomatic patients MM.

Results
While our patients were elderly and most showed bone involvement, their PA was similar to healthy individuals. Aerobic PA (≥ 60 minutes/week) was performed by 65%, and 25% exercised ≥ 150 minutes/week. WHO PA recommendations were fulfilled by 17% of patients. No sport activities or complete physical inactivity were observed in 35% and 16%, respectively. Notably, 38% were motivated to join MM-specific sport interventions. Self-reported knowledge of PA-induced benefits for patients cancer was high (82%), but only 27% knew which exercises were safe to perform.

Conclusion
This study provides an overview of the PA of patients MM. Our results suggest that the PA of patients MM might not be much lower than in the age-matched general population.
Effect of Dexamethasone as a Local Anesthetic Adjuvant on Duration of Post Operative Analgesia for Ultrasound Guided Transabdominal Plane Block in Appendectomy – A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial
Authors: Mohamed Hassan Alaa Eid , Said Boctor Alfred Maurice , Moris Misak Kerolos Emad , El Mohaimen Bakr Sarah Ahmed Hanee Abd 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background
Poorly controlled acute pain after abdominal surgery is related to somatic pain signals derived from the abdominal wall and is associated with a variety of unwanted post- operative consequences, including patient suffering, distress, respiratory complications, delirium, myocardial ischemia, prolonged hospital stay, an increased likelihood of chronic pain, increased consumption of analgesics, delayed bowel function and increase the requirement for rescue analgesics. Appropriate pain treatment protocols to reduce postoperative morbidity, improve the results of the surgery and decrease hospital costs.

Aim of the Work
The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of adding dexamethasone as a perineural adjuvant on the post operative duration of action of Transversus Abdominus Plane (TAP) block in patients undergoing appendectomy.

Patients and Methods
The study was conducted on 30 randomly chosen patients aged 17 to 55 years, American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) class I or II scheduled for appendectomy under general anesthesia in Ain Shams University Hospitals after approval of the medical ethical committee. They were allocated in two groups of 15 patients each:

Results
Dexamethasone as an adjuvant to LA has been shown to prolong the duration of pain-free period, less requirement for rescue opioids consumption, more patient satisfaction. A similar finding was observed in our study.

Conclusion
The addition of dexamethasone to bupivacaine in TAP block in appendectomy provides a prolonged duration of postoperative analgesia, with reduced analgesic requirements, a better quality of analgesia in terms of VAS score compared to bupivacaine alone group.