bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Local knowledge and attitude towards the Vulnerable Bhutan takin Budorcas whitei among residents living within its seasonal range
Authors: Sangay Tiger , Rajanathan Rajaratnam , Vernes Karl , Tighe Matthew
Published: February 2019

We assessed local knowledge of and attitudes towards a large, endemic bovid, the Bhutan takin Budorcas whitei, within its seasonal range in Jigme Dorji National Park, Bhutan. Using semi-structured questionnaires, data were collected in March 2015 from interviews with 169 park residents. A conditional inference tree analysis was used to explore associations between demography, locality, and secondary response variables through questions relating to respondents’ knowledge of the takin's status as a protected species, a Vulnerable species, and as the national animal. Most respondents knew the takin was Bhutan's national animal, and of those, a significantly high proportion also knew of its protected status. Significantly more respondents residing in the species’ summer, rather than winter, range were aware of the takin's Vulnerable status. Most respondents expressed positive feelings towards the takin and supported its protection. This strong positive attitude, in conjunction with awareness-raising efforts, could be valuable for promoting the takin as a montane flagship species.
Alexithymia and frontal–amygdala functional connectivity in North Korean refugees
Authors: Kim Nambeom , Park Inkyung , Lee Yu Jin , Jeon Sehyun , Kim Soohyun , Lee Kyung Hwa , Park Juhyun , Kim Hang-Keun , Gwaq Ah Reum , Jun Jin Yong , Yoo So Young , Lee So Hee , Kim Seog Ju
Published: February 2019

Background

Refugees commonly experience difficulties with emotional processing, such as alexithymia, due to stressful or traumatic experiences. However, the functional connectivity of the amygdala, which is central to emotional processing, has yet to be assessed in refugees. Thus, the present study investigated the resting-state functional connectivity of the amygdala and its association with emotional processing in North Korean (NK) refugees.

Methods

This study included 45 NK refugees and 40 native South Koreans (SK). All participants were administered the Toronto Alexithymia Scale (TAS), Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), and Clinician-administered PTSD Scale (CAPS), and differences between NK refugees and native SK in terms of resting-state functional connectivity of the amygdala were assessed. Additionally, the association between the strength of amygdala connectivity and the TAS score was examined.

Results

Resting-state connectivity values from the left amygdala to the bilateral dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (dlPFC) and dorsal anterior cingulate cortex (dACC) were higher in NK refugees than in native SK. Additionally, the strength of connectivity between the left amygdala and right dlPFC was positively associated with TAS score after controlling for the number of traumatic experiences and BDI and CAPS scores.

Conclusions

The present study found that NK refugees exhibited heightened frontal–amygdala connectivity, and that this connectivity was correlated with alexithymia. The present results suggest that increased frontal–amygdala connectivity in refugees may represent frontal down-regulation of the amygdala, which in turn may produce alexithymia.
The liturgy of the in-between
Authors: Adiprasetya Joas
Published: February 2019

By using the idea of theology as symbolic engagement, I propose the ‘in-between’ as a liturgical category that engages with multiple tensions in Christian theology. The concept of the in-between becomes the primary lens through which to analyse not only the relationship between ecclesial and social liturgies, but also the interstices between the two. I then apply the concept to construct theological imagination in the ministries of ushering, intercessory prayer and the sending. The article concludes with a story of the worship of the GKI Yasmin church in front of the presidential palace in Indonesia, which demonstrates the prophetic dimension of the in-between.
Early assessment of innovation in a healthcare setting
Authors: Støme Linn Nathalie , Moger Tron , Kidholm Kristian , Kværner Kari J.
Published: February 2019

Objectives

Early assessment can assist in allocating resources for innovation effectively and produce the most beneficial technology for an institution. The aim of the present study was to identify methods and discuss the analytical approaches applied for the early assessment of innovation in a healthcare setting.

Methods

Knowledge synthesis based on a structured search (using the MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane databases) and thematic analysis was conducted. An analytical framework based on the stage of innovation (developmental, introduction, or early diffusion) was applied to assess whether methods vary according to stage. Themes (type of innovation, study, analysis, study design, method, and main target audience) were then decided among the authors. Identified methods and analysis were discussed according to the innovation stage.

Results

A total of 1,064 articles matched the search strategy. Overall, thirty-nine articles matched the inclusion criteria. The use of methods has a tendency to change according to the stage of innovation. Stakeholder analysis was a prominent method in the innovation stages and particularly in the developmental stage, as the introduction and early diffusion stage has more availability of data and may apply more complex methods. Barriers to the identified methods were also discussed as all of the innovation stages suffered from lack of data and substantial uncertainty.

Conclusions

Although this review has identified applicable approaches for early assessment in different innovation stages, research is required regarding the value of the available data and methods and tools to enhance interactions between different parties at different stages of innovation.
Lachiri v Belgium and Bans on Wearing Islamic Dress in the Courtroom: An Emerging Trend
Authors: Paul Kaushik
Published: February 2019

In recent years, the wearing of Islamic dress in public spaces and elsewhere has generated widespread controversy all over Europe. The wearing of the hijab and other Islamic veils has been the subject of adjudication before the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) on many occasions. The most recent case before the ECtHR as to the prohibition on wearing the hijab is Lachiri v Belgium. In this case, the ECtHR held that a prohibition on wearing the hijab in the courtroom constitutes an infringement of Article 9 of the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR), which guarantees the right to freedom of religion or belief. From the perspective of religious freedom, the ruling of the Strasbourg Court in Lachiri is very significant for many reasons. The purpose of this comment is critically to analyse the ECtHR's decision in Lachiri from the standpoint of religious liberty.
G20 Interfaith Forum
Authors: Hill Mark
Published: February 2019

The 2018 G20 Interfaith Forum took place 26–28 September 2018 in Buenos Aires, Argentina. This was the fifth annual event in a series of G20 interfaith fora held to coincide with the meetings of the international Group of Twenty Economic Summit. This year's G20 Summit will take place in Buenos Aires, from 30 November to 1 December. Previous interfaith fora have been held in Gold Coast, Australia (2014), Istanbul, Turkey (2015), Beijing, China (2016) and Potsdam, Germany (2017).
General Assembly of the Church of Scotland
Authors: Lingiah Jason
Published: February 2019

The General Assembly met in Edinburgh from 19 to 25 May, with the Rt Revd Susan Brown BD DipMin, Chaplain in Ordinary and Minister of Dornoch in the Presbytery of Sutherland, installed as Moderator. Her appointment as Moderator fell on the fiftieth anniversary of Act XXV 1968 permitting the ordination of women to the Ministry of Word and Sacrament. This year's Lord High Commissioner to the General Assembly was the Duke of Buccleuch and Queensberry.
General Synod of the Scottish Episcopal Church
Authors: Stuart John F
Published: February 2019

The General Synod met at St Paul's and St George's Church in Edinburgh from 7 to 9 June. It was the first General Synod at which the new Primus, the Most Revd Mark Strange, presided. In his charge to Synod, he preached on the love of God and the meaning of ‘loving your neighbour as yourself’. The mission of the Church was about revealing God's love and making life better for all, not just for church members.
DEFENDING JESUS AGNOSTICISM
Authors: Lataster Raphael
Published: February 2019

Few critical scholars have responded to my recent work on the controversial topic of Jesus’ probable ahistoricity. Disregarding my advice that this should be a debate among atheists, Brenda Watson has become the first to respond in an academic journal. Stephen Law also received some criticism for his own article on scepticism about Jesus. I respond to them all here.
THE BODY TRADE
Authors: Rainey Stephen
Published: February 2019

What happens after we die? This might be taken as an eschatological question, seeking some explanation or reassurance around the destiny of an immortal soul or some such vital element of our very being. But there is another sense that has at least as much importance. What should we do with dead bodies?
Evolutionary changes in the orbits and palatal openings of early tetrapods, with emphasis on temnospondyls
Authors: WITZMANN Florian , RUTA Marcello
Published: February 2019

Open palates with large interpterygoid vacuities are a diagnostic characteristic of temnospondyl amphibians, the most species-rich group of early tetrapods. Aside from their functional roles, several other aspects of such vacuities, such as their variation and spatial relationships relative to the orbits, have received only scarce attention. The present work examines patterns of shape and size changes in the orbits and vacuities of temnospondyls using a time-calibrated phylogeny of 69 temnospondyl taxa and 13 additional early tetrapod ‘outgroups' (colosteids, an embolomere, ‘microsaurs' and nectrideans). Orbit and vacuity outlines are quantified in a comparative framework using standard eigenshape analyses. In addition, we employ a series of ratios of linear measurements of both orbits and vacuities, and subject them to a phylogenetic principal component analysis in order to evaluate their proportional changes relative to the skull and to one another. Finally, we examine rates of evolutionary change and their associated shifts for shape and size for both structures, and assess the strength and significance of the correlations between these two variables using phylogenetic generalised least squares analyses. Although orbits and vacuities have fairly simple outlines, they both reveal complex models of proportional change across the temnospondyl phylogeny. These changes exhibit strong phylogenetic signal, that is, trait covariance among taxa is predicted by tree topology. We discuss the hypothesis that, early in tetrapod evolution, the functional role of the vacuities was related to the accommodation of the anterior jaw muscles. Only later in evolution did such vacuities serve to accommodate the eye muscles only.
Utopias and “Normality”: 1968 Revisited Fifty Years On
Authors: Rupnik Jacques
Published: February 2019

The Prague Spring of 1968 did not provoke a major international crisis but at most an “incident” in the making of east-west detente. Yet it deserves to be revisited for three reasons of lasting significance for Europe. First, the Prague Spring revived, beyond the contemporary writings on Czech “democratic exceptionalism,” the European debate about the relationship between socialism and democracy. Second, it was often interpreted as part of an international generational revolt against the establishments, yet it also revealed sharp contrasts between east and west. Can the misunderstandings and different legacies of 1968 in Paris and Prague be enlightening for trans-European dialogue (or lack of) after 1989? Third, Czechoslovakia in 1968 represented the most far-reaching blueprint for reforming the system within the Soviet sphere. Its crushing prevented reform in eastern Europe and Moscow. Although it provided inspiration for Gorbachev's belated, botched attempt to save the system, this was twenty years too late, thus paving the way for its implosion in 1989.
Kant's Future: Debates about the Identity of Kaliningrad Oblast
Authors: Zieliński Miłosz J.
Published: February 2019

This article addresses the role that the legacy of the pre- and post-WWII past has played in ongoing identity debates among the inhabitants of Kaliningrad oblast of the Russian Federation. Since 1991, interest in preserving this legacy has been on the rise, influencing the inhabitants’ feeling of regional distinctiveness in numerous ways. While the pre-war legacy is important for a considerable number of Kaliningraders, others believe that it threatens the Russian and Soviet mien of the Oblast, both in cultural and political terms. They favor taking greater care of Soviet-era buildings, monuments, and other commemorations of war heroes. This viewpoint disparity has recently widened due to both internal and external factors, including the deterioration of Russo-western relations. A March 2015 incident in the village of Veselovka is used to reflect upon the way in which pre-war and post-war legacies are used in the above-mentioned identity debate. The author examines the direction of identity construction in the oblast through the officially-acknowledged vision of Russianness as pursued by President Vladimir Putin, in particular, and the Russian government, in general.
Current challenges to the concept of sustainability
Authors: Vogt Markus , Weber Christoph
Published: February 2019

Non-technical summary

In this paper we discuss current challenges to the sustainability concept. This article focuses on seven dimensions of the concept. These dimensions are crucial for understanding sustainability. Even today, the literature contains basic misunderstandings about these seven dimensions. This article sketches such fallacies in the context of global and planetary sustainability. The sustainability concept has been criticized as a content-empty ‘fuzzy notion’ or non-committal ‘all-purpose glue’. This article thus has a critical intention of reflecting the sustainability concept accurately. The aim is to contribute a better understanding of the concept.
Stability of antioxidant vitamins in whole human blood during overnight storage at 4°C and frozen storage up to 6 months
Authors: Leonard Scott W. , Bobe Gerd , Traber Maret G.
Published: February 2019

Abstract. To determine optimal conditions for blood collection during clinical trials, where sample handling logistics might preclude prompt separation of erythrocytes from plasma, healthy subjects (n=8, 6 M/2F) were recruited and non-fasting blood samples were collected into tubes containing different anticoagulants (ethylenediaminetetra-acetic acid (EDTA), Li-heparin or Na-heparin). We hypothesized that heparin, but not EDTA, would effectively protect plasma tocopherols, ascorbic acid, and vitamin E catabolites (α- and γ-CEHC) from oxidative damage. To test this hypothesis, one set of tubes was processed immediately and plasma samples were stored at −80°C, while the other set was stored at 4°C and processed the following morning (~30 hours) and analyzed, or the samples were analyzed after 6 months of storage. Plasma ascorbic acid, as measured using HPLC with electrochemical detection (LC-ECD) decreased by 75% with overnight storage using EDTA as an anticoagulant, but was unchanged when heparin was used. Neither time prior to processing, nor anticoagulant, had any significant effects upon plasma α- or γ-tocopherols or α- or γ-CEHC concentrations. α- and γ-tocopherol concentrations remained unchanged after 6 months of storage at −80°C, when measured using either LC-ECD or LC/mass spectrometry. Thus, refrigeration of whole blood at 4°C overnight does not change plasma α- or γ-tocopherol concentrations or their catabolites. Ascorbic acid is unstable in whole blood when EDTA is used as an anticoagulant, but when whole blood is collected with heparin, it can be stored overnight and subsequently processed.
No Relation Between Zinc Status and Inflammatory Biomarkers in Adolescent Judokas
Authors: Francisca de Sousa Artemizia , de Andrade Mesquita Laiana Sepúlveda , Cruz Kyria Jayanne Clímaco , de Oliveira Ana Raquel Soares , Morais Jennifer Beatriz Silva , Severo Juliana Soares , Beserra Jéssica Batista , Nogueira Nadir do Nascimento , Marreiro Dilina do Nascimento
Published: February 2019

Abstract. This study aimed to assess the relation between zinc status and inflammation biomarkers in adolescent judokas. This cross-sectional study included 52 male adolescents, aged between 14 and 19 years, who were subdivided into two groups: judoka group (n = 25) and control group (n = 27). Zinc intake was monitored using 3-day food records and the NutWin software version 1.5. The plasma and erythrocyte zinc concentrations were determined by flame atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Analysis of cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α) was performed. The mean values of zinc concentration in the diet were found to be higher than those recommended (11.0±3.9 mg/day and 20.3±11.9 mg/day for control group and judokas, respectively) although there was no significant difference between the groups. The mean plasma concentrations of zinc were below the reference range (71.4±16.0 μg/dL and 71.9±13.8 μg/dL for control group and judokas, respectively), without a significant difference between the groups. The mean concentrations of zinc erythrocyte were within the reference range (41.2±8.6 μg/gHb and 42.6±11.3 μg/gHb for control group and judokas, respectively), without a significant difference between the groups. There was no significant difference in the inflammatory biomarkers between the judokas and controls. There was not a significant correlation between biochemical parameters of zinc and inflammation biomarkers in adolescent judokas. Regarding the data found in the study, it can be concluded that the athletes evaluated have low plasma zinc concentrations, normal erythrocyte values, and high dietary intake of zinc. Moreover, the study don’t show a relationship between zinc parameters and inflammatory markers evaluated.
Disparities in the timing and measurement methods to assess vitamin D status during pregnancy: A Narrative Review
Authors: Savard Claudia , Gagnon Claudia , Morisset Anne-Sophie
Published: February 2019

Abstract. Studies that examined associations between low circulating 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) and adverse pregnancy outcomes used various designs, assay methods and time points for measurement of 25(OH)D concentrations, which creates some confusion in the current literature. We aimed to investigate the variability in the timing and measurement methods used to evaluate vitamin D status during pregnancy. Analysis of 198 studies published between 1976 and 2017 showed an important variability in the choice of 1) threshold values for 25(OH)D insufficiency or deficiency, 2) 25(OH)D measurement methods, and 3) trimester in which 25(OH)D concentrations were measured. Blood samples were taken once during pregnancy in a large majority of studies, which may not be representative of vitamin D status throughout pregnancy. Most studies reported adjustment for confounding factors including season of blood sampling, but very few studies used the 25(OH)D gold standard assay, the LC-MS/MS. Prospective studies assessing maternal 25(OH)D concentrations 1) by standardized and validated methods, 2) at various time points during pregnancy, and 3) after considering potential confounding factors, are needed.
Boric acid and Borax Supplementation Reduces Weight Gain in Overweight Rats and Alter L-Carnitine and IGF-I Levels
Authors: Atakisi Onur , Dalginli Kezban Yildiz , Gulmez Canan , Kaya Ruya , Ozden Ozkan , Kart Asim , Atakisi Emine
Published: February 2019

Abstract. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of boric acid (BA) and borax (BX) on live weight and obesity associated molecules including leptin, L-carnitine, insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-I), and heat shock proteins 70 (HSP70) in rats fed with high-fat diet. A total of 60 rats were equally allocated as ND (normal diet), HF (high-fat diet), HF+BA, HF+BX, ND+BX, ND+BA. Body weight increases in HF+BA (85 g) and HF+BX (86 g) were significantly lower (p<0.05) compared to HF group (126 g). Boron treatment decreased serum L-carnitine level in high-fat diet (HF+BA 11.12 mg/L, HF+BX 10.51 mg/L, p<0.05) compared to HF group (15.57 mg/L), while no change was observed in groups ND+BA (7.55 mg/L) and ND+BX (7.57 mg/L) compared to group ND (8.29 mg/L). Neither BA nor BX supplementation in ND and HF groups altered the serum levels of HSP70 and leptin. BA and BX supplementation in rats fed HF resulted in a significant reduction in live weight. Boron compounds altered L-carnitine and IGF-1 levels in rats. These results indicate that boron compounds are beneficial in the treatment of obesity as well as in the prevention of high-fat diet-induced weight increase. Alterations in serum L-carnitine and IGF-1 levels in boron treated rats also indicate possible role of boron compounds in energy metabolism in response to high fat diet.
Comparison of Serum Vitamin D Levels in Relation to Bowel and Bladder Symptoms in Women with Vulvar Diseases
Authors: Swenson Carolyn W. , Schimpf Megan O. , Menees Stacy B. , Haefner Hope K. , Berger Mitchell B.
Published: February 2019

Abstract. Objectives: We sought to investigate associations between vitamin D levels and bowel and bladder disorders in women with vulvar diseases.

Methods: This is a planned sub-analysis of a cross-sectional study comparing the prevalence of bowel and bladder symptoms in women with biopsy-proven vulvar lichen sclerosus (LS) to a control group of women with non-lichenoid vulvar diseases. All subjects were recruited from a tertiary referral vulvar care clinic in a university-based practice. Serum vitamin D levels were measured and subjects self-completed questionnaires during study recruitment. Pelvic floor disorders were determined from the following questionnaires: Rome III Functional Bowel Disorders Questionnaire, the Bristol stool scale, the Medical, Social and Epidemiologic Aspects of Aging Questionnaire, and the Overactive Bladder-8 Question Version.

Results: 181 women with vulvar diseases were included: 88 with LS and 93 with non-LS vulvar diseases. The mean age was 52.5 ± 15.3 years, and 94.5% were Caucasian. Vitamin D levels (26.8 ± 13.1 vs 29.5 ± 19.0 ng/mL), prevalence of low vitamin D levels (51.1% vs 45.2%), and vitamin D supplementation (42.0% vs 47.8%) were similar in women with and without LS ( p ≥ 0.27). These factors did not differ between women with and without overactive bladder (OAB) (vitamin D levels 30.1 ± 17.8 vs 26.3 ± 14.8 ng/mL), urinary incontinence (27.9 ± 15.2 vs 26.4 ± 11.0 ng/mL), constipation (26.7 ± 14.8 vs 28.5 ± 16.8 ng/mL), or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) (30.8 ± 22.1 vs 27.6 ± 13.4 ng/mL).

Conclusions: In this cohort of women with vulvar diseases, vitamin D levels and supplementation were not significantly different amongst women with vulvar lichen sclerosus or other non-lichenoid vulvar diseases. Furthermore, vitamin D levels are not serum biomarkers for OAB, urinary incontinence, constipation, or IBS.
Excess nutritional risk in infants and toddlers in a Spanish city
Authors: Jardi Cristina , Aranda Núria , Bedmar Cristina , Arija Victoria
Published: February 2019

Abstract. Adequate dietary intake is vital for infants’ growth and development. The aim was to analyse food consumption and energy and nutrient intakes in a group of healthy Spanish infants and toddlers. Cross-sectional study. 154 infants were assessed at 6 months, and followed at 12 and 30 months. Clinical history, anthropometry, type of feeding, food consumption and energy and nutrient intakes (24-hours recall) were estimated. Advice about food consumed, estimated average requirements, the prevalence of inadequate intakes and percentage of adequacy of the recommended dietary allowance were applied. Toddlers had an excessive daily consumption of meat (>51.3g/day), milk (>545g/day), fish (>20.8g/day) and free-sugar foods (>30.5g/day). This consumption was related to a very high intake of proteins (>18%) and free sugars (>10%), at 12 and 30 months, as a percentage of daily energy intake. The mean prevalence of inadequacy intakes was above 48% for iron at 6 months, and 68% and 87% for vitamin D at 12 and 30 months, respectively. At 6 months, infants who were breastfed had greater adequacy in energy and nutrients to recommended dietary, while infants fed infant formula had a higher intake (>120% compared with RDA) in vitamins E, C, B1, B2, pantothenic acid, B6, B12 and folic acid. The contribution of micronutrients in infant formula should be reviewed, appropriate protein and free sugars should be provided during complementary feeding, as well as strategies to avoid vitamin D deficiency since childhood; and continue with the promotion of breastfeeding.
Best Practices and Recommendations for Digital Interventions to	Improve Engagement and Adherence in Chronic Illness Sufferers
Authors: Karekla Maria , Kasinopoulos Orestis , Neto David Dias , Ebert David Daniel , Van Daele Tom , Nordgreen Tine , Höfer Stefan , Oeverland Svein , Jensen Kit Lisbeth
Published: February 2019

Abstract. Chronic illnesses cause considerable burden in quality of life, often leading to physical, psychological, and social dysfunctioning of the sufferers and their family. There is a growing need for flexible provision of home-based psychological services to increase reach even for traditionally underserved chronic illness sufferer populations. Digital interventions can fulfill this role and provide a range of psychological services to improve functioning. Despite the potential of digital interventions, concerns remain regarding users’ engagement, as low engagement is associated with low adherence rates, high attrition, and suboptimal exposure to the intervention. Human–computer interaction (e.g., theoretical models of persuasive system design, gamification, tailoring, and supportive accountability) and user characteristics (e.g., gender, age, computer literacy) are the main identified culprits contributing to engagement and adherence difficulties. To date, there have not been any clear and concise recommendations for improved utilization and engagement in digital interventions. This paper provides an overview of user engagement factors and proposes research informed recommendations for engagement and adherence planning in digital intervention development. The recommendations were derived from the literature and consensualized by expert members of the European Federation of Psychology Associations, Psychology and Health Standing Committee, and e-Health Task Force. These recommendations serve as a starting point for researchers and clinicians interested in the digitalized health field and promote effective planning for engagement when developing digital interventions with the potential to maximize adherence and optimal exposure in the treatment of chronic health conditions.
Association Between Health Literacy, eHealth Literacy, and Health	Outcomes Among Patients With Long-Term Conditions
Authors: Neter Efrat , Brainin Esther
Published: February 2019

Abstract. The objective of this paper is to synthesize and update findings from systematic review on health literacy and health outcomes among patients with long-term conditions, and extend the review to the digital domain. Health outcomes include clinical outcomes, processes of care, and health service use. Data sources are the following: (1) studies which appeared in two previous systematic reviews in 2004 and 2011 whose participants were people with long-term conditions or elderly ( n = 54); (2) articles on health literacy and health outcomes identified in an updated 2011–2016 search ( n = 26); (3) articles on eHealth literacy and its association with health outcomes ( n = 8). Strength of evidence was determined by a qualitative assessment of risk of bias, consistency, and directness. There was a lack of consistent evidence on the relationship between health literacy and clinical outcomes despite the consistent evidence on the association with mortality. There was low to insufficient evidence on the association between health literacy and self-rated health/function and emotional states of anxiety and depression, alongside high evidence on lack of association with quality of life. There was insufficient to low evidence on the association between health literacy and behavioral outcomes (medication adherence, other health behaviors) and finally also low to moderate evidence on the association between health literacy and use of health services such as hospitalization and emergency department. In the eHealth literacy domain, there were few studies reporting association with health behaviors and self-rated health with inconsistent results. In conclusion, it is advocated to examine performed heath literacy and eHealth literacy in large longitudinal studies.
Supporting Adherence to Medicines for Long-Term	Conditions
Authors: Horne Rob , Cooper Vanessa , Wileman Vari , Chan Amy
Published: February 2019

Abstract. Pharmaceutical prescriptions are core to the treatment of most chronic illnesses, yet only half are taken as prescribed. Despite the high costs of nonadherence to individuals and society, effective adherence-promoting interventions are elusive. This is partly due to the sheer complicity of the issue. There are numerous determinants of adherence, both internal to the patient (intrinsic) and external (extrinsic, e.g., environmental or health system-related factors). Also, the relative importance of these determinants varies between individuals and even within the same individual over time and across treatments, presenting a challenge for intervention design. One complication is that interventions can target several levels: (1) patient (e.g., enhancing motivation and/or ability to adhere), (2) patient-provider interactions (e.g., improving communication and the prescribing process), and (3) the healthcare system (e.g., providing the opportunity to access medication through regulatory approval and co-payment schemes). Here, we focus on level 1: the patient. Although environmental factors are important, the effect of an intervention designed to change them will depend on how they impact on the individual. We describe the Perceptions and Practicalities Approach (PAPA), a pragmatic framework positing that adherence/nonadherence is essentially a produce of individual motivation and ability. Adherence interventions, targeted at any level, will therefore be more effective if tailored to address the perceptions and practicalities underpinning individual motivation and ability. We discuss how PAPA can be operationalized, including the application of theoretical models of illness and treatment representation (Necessity-Concerns Framework and Leventhal’s Common-Sense Model) to address salient adherence-related perceptions.
Impact of the Sunda Shelf on the Climate of the Maritime Continent
Authors: Sarr Anta‐Clarisse , Sepulchre Pierre , Husson Laurent
Published: February 2019

Drastic paleogeography changes in the Indonesian archipelago over the Plio‐Pleistocene, either in response to sea level oscillations or vertical land motion, enabled the periodic emergence of the Sunda shelf. When emerged, this wide continental platform in the heart of the Maritime Continent may have modified regional and global climate systems. We investigate the effect of the exposure of the Sunda shelf on climate dynamics using a set of numerical simulations with (i) atmosphere‐land surface and (ii) fully coupled general circulation models. We first explore the impact of convection schemes on the rainfall regime simulated over the Maritime Continent and show how they could explain the discrepancies among previous studies. We further depict a robust and common mechanism that prevails. We show that diurnal heating of the surface of the continental platform enhances low‐level convergence and local convection, and fosters local precipitations. This effect, to a second order, is modulated by the radiative effect and increased turbulent heat flux driven by vegetated surface properties such as albedo or roughness. Increasing precipitations over the exposed platform also impacts freshwater export into seawater, making salinity of the Indian Ocean and Indonesian Throughflow highly dependent on the routing scheme over the exposed shelf.
Is There a Bulldozer in your Model?
Authors: Lazarus Eli D. , Goldstein Evan B.
Published: February 2019

Deliberate, real‐time human interventions into geomorphic processes are a phenomenon that no off‐the‐shelf numerical model of morphodynamics is built to capture. We suggest that active, responsive human processes that affect sediment transport during major storm events be included in evolving efforts to model geomorphic change.
Exposure to Nanoscale Particulate Matter from Gestation to Adulthood Impairs Metabolic Homeostasis in Mice
Authors: Woodward Nicholas C. , Crow Amanda L. , Zhang Yang , Epstein Sam , Hartiala Jaana , Johnson Richard , Kocalis Heidi , Saffari Arian , Sankaranarayanan Ishwarya , Akbari Omid , Ramanathan Gajalakshmi , Araujo Jesus A. , Finch Caleb E. , Bouret Sebastien G. , Sioutas Constantinos , Morgan Todd E. , Allayee Hooman
Published: February 2019

Emerging evidence from epidemiological and animal studies suggests that exposure to traffic-related air pollutants and particulate matter less than 2.5 µm in diameter (PM2.5) contributes to development of obesity and related metabolic abnormalities. However, it is not known whether nanoscale particulate matter (nPM) with aerodynamic diameter ≤200 nm have similar adverse metabolic effects. The goal of the present study was to determine the effects of prenatal and early life exposure to nPM on metabolic homeostasis in mice. C57BL/6 J mice were exposed to nPM or filtered air from gestation until 17 weeks of age and characterized for metabolic and behavioral parameters. In male mice, nPM exposure increased food intake, body weight, fat mass, adiposity, and whole-body glucose intolerance (p < 0.05). Consistent with these effects, male mice exposed to nPM displayed alterations in the expression of metabolically-relevant neuropeptides in the hypothalamus and decreased expression of insulin receptor signaling genes in adipose (p < 0.05). There were no differences in exploratory behavior or motor function, fasting lipid levels, or the inflammatory profile of adipose tissue. Our results provide evidence that chronic nPM exposure from gestation to early adulthood in male mice promotes metabolic dysregulation in part through modulation of feeding behavior and in the absence of an obesogenic diet.
Association of Obesity with Hearing Impairment in Adolescents
Authors: Scinicariello Franco , Carroll Yulia , Eichwald John , Decker John , Breysse Patrick N.
Published: February 2019

Hearing loss (HL) is the third most common chronic physical condition in the United States. Obesity has become an increasingly important public health concern, as the prevalence in children, adolescents and adults has increased over the past few decades. The objectives of this study is to investigate whether obesity is associated with audiometric notches indicative of noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL), speech frequency hearing loss (SFHL), and high frequency hearing loss (HFHL) in adolescent participants of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2007–2010. The prevalence of overall audiometric notches in the adolescent population was 16.0% with higher prevalence in females than males. The prevalence of SFHL and HFHL were higher in males than females (SFHL, 7.3% vs. 5.4%, respectively; and HFHL 14.3% vs. 8.1%, respectively). Obese adolescents had a higher adjusted OR to have audiometric notches (OR = 1.93; 95% CI: 1.33–2.81) and HFHL (OR = 1.95; 95% CI: 1.19–3.21). Continued preventative efforts towards reducing obesity might also help to reduce the risk for HL and NIHL.
Determination of the absolute configurations of the stereogenic centers of ustilaginoidins by studying the biosynthetic monomers from a gene knockout mutant of Villosiclava virens
Authors: Lai Daowan , Meng Jiajia , Xu Dan , Zhang Xuping , Liang Yafeng , Han Yu , Jiang Cong , Liu Huiquan , Wang Chenfang , Zhou Ligang , Xu Jin-Rong
Published: February 2019

Ustilaginoidins are a kind of mycotoxins with 9,9′-linked bis-naphtho-γ-pyrones structures produced by the rice false smut pathogen Villosiclava virens. These metabolites displayed a wide range of bioactivities, such as teratogenic, cytotoxic, phytotoxic, and antibacterial activities. So far 26 ustilaginoidins have been isolated from V. virens, among which 18 compounds contained stereogenic center(s), however, most of them were unknown for the absolute configurations, except that of ustilaginoidin D. In this study, the absolute structures of these ustilaginoidins were constructed for the first time by analysis of the biosynthetic monomers obtained from a gene knockout mutant (ΔUV_2091) of V. virens. The gene UV_2091 was predicted to encode an enzyme that dimerized the monomeric naphtho-γ-pyrones in V. virens. Knockout of this gene led to the accumulation of three monomers, namely hemiustilaginoidin F (1), epihemiustilaginoidin D (2), and hemiustilaginoidin D (3), but the production of ustilaginoidins was completely blocked. The structures of the monomers were deduced by spectroscopic analysis, in combination with TDDFT ECD calculations for determining the absolute configurations. These compounds were tested for their phytotoxic, cytotoxic, antibacterial, and antifungal activities. Compounds 1 and 3 showed inhibition against the radicle and plumule elongation of rice and lettuce seeds at the tested concentrations. Compound 1 was active against the tested five human cancer cells, with half maximal inhibitory concentrations (IC50s) of 13.2~37.3 μM. Compounds 1~3 inhibited the growth of the tested pathogenic bacteria with minimum inhibitory concentrations of 8~32 µg/mL, while compound 3 exhibited antifungal activity against Magnaporthe oryzae (IC50, 5.21 µg/mL). A comparison of these data with those of the ustilaginoidins provided insights into the structure-bioactivity relationships.
Revealing membrane alteration in cells overexpressing CA IX and EGFR by Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering
Authors: Rusciano Giulia , Sasso Emanuele , Capaccio Angela , Zambrano Nicola , Sasso Antonio
Published: February 2019

Sensitive detection of altered proteins expression in plasma membranes is of fundamental importance, for both diagnostic and prognostic purposes. Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering (SERS) has proven to be a quite sensitive approach to detect proteins, even in very diluted samples. However, proteins detection in complex environment, such as the cellular membrane, is still a challenge. Herein, we demonstrate a SERS-based platform to reveal the overexpression of target proteins in cell membranes. As a proof of concept, we implemented ectopic expression of carbonic anhydrase IX (CA IX) and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) in the plasma membrane of the SKOV3 tumor cell line. Our outcomes demonstrate that SERS signals from cells put in contact with a hyperuniform SERS substrate allow highlighting subtle differences in the biochemical composition of cell membranes, normally hidden in spontaneous Raman confocal microscopy. This opens new opportunities for a label-free membrane analysis and bio-sensing in a broader sense.
Sleeve Gastrectomy and Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass Achieve Similar Early Improvements in Beta-cell Function in Obese Patients with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Mullally Jamie A. , Febres Gerardo J. , Bessler Marc , Korner Judith
Published: February 2019

Bariatric surgery is a treatment option for obese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Although sleeve gastrectomy (SG) is growing in favor, some randomized trials show less weight loss and HbA1c improvement compared with Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB). The study objective was to compare changes in beta-cell function with similar weight loss after SG and RYGB in obese patients with T2DM. Subjects undergoing SG or RYGB were studied with an intravenous glucose tolerance test before surgery and at 5–12% weight loss post-surgery. The primary endpoint was change in the disposition index (DI). Baseline BMI, HbA1c, and diabetes-duration were similar between groups. Mean total weight loss percent was similar (8.4% ± 0.4, p = 0.22) after a period of 21.0 ± 1.7 days. Changes in fasting glucose, acute insulin secretion (AIR), and insulin sensitivity (Si) were similar between groups. Both groups showed increases from baseline to post-surgery in DI (20.2 to 163.3, p = 0.03 for SG; 31.2 to 232.9, p = 0.02 for RYGB) with no significant difference in the change in DI between groups (p = 0.53). Short-term improvements in beta-cell function using an IVGTT were similar between SG and RYGB. It remains unclear if longer-term outcomes are better after RYGB due to greater weight loss and/or other factors.
Phononic topological insulators based on six-petal holey silicon structures
Authors: Yu Ziqi , Ren Zongqing , Lee Jaeho
Published: February 2019

Since the discovery of the Quantum Spin Hall Effect, electronic and photonic topological insulators have made substantial progress, but phononic topological insulators in solids have received relatively little attention due to challenges in realizing topological states without spin-like degrees of freedom and with transverse phonon polarizations. Here we present a holey silicon-based topological insulator design, in which simple geometric control enables topologically protected in-plane elastic wave propagation up to GHz ranges with a submicron periodicity. By integrating a hexagonal lattice of six small holes with one central large hole and by creating a hexagonal lattice by themselves, our design induces zone folding to form a double Dirac cone. Based on the hole dimensions, breaking the discrete translational symmetry allows the six-petal holey silicon to achieve the topological phase transition, yielding two topologically distinct phononic crystals. Our numerical simulations confirm inverted band structures and demonstrate backscattering-immune elastic wave transmissions through defects including a cavity, a disorder, and sharp bends. Our design also offers robustness against geometric errors and potential fabrication issues, which shows up to 90% transmission of elastic waves even with 6% under-sized or 11% over-sized holes. These findings provide a detailed understanding of the relationship between geometry and topological properties and pave the way for developing future phononic circuits.
Integrating experimental and distribution data to predict future species patterns
Authors: Kotta Jonne , Vanhatalo Jarno , Jänes Holger , Orav-Kotta Helen , Rugiu Luca , Jormalainen Veijo , Bobsien Ivo , Viitasalo Markku , Virtanen Elina , Sandman Antonia Nyström , Isaeus Martin , Leidenberger Sonja , Jonsson Per R. , Johannesson Kerstin
Published: February 2019

Predictive species distribution models are mostly based on statistical dependence between environmental and distributional data and therefore may fail to account for physiological limits and biological interactions that are fundamental when modelling species distributions under future climate conditions. Here, we developed a state-of-the-art method integrating biological theory with survey and experimental data in a way that allows us to explicitly model both physical tolerance limits of species and inherent natural variability in regional conditions and thereby improve the reliability of species distribution predictions under future climate conditions. By using a macroalga-herbivore association (Fucus vesiculosus-Idotea balthica) as a case study, we illustrated how salinity reduction and temperature increase under future climate conditions may significantly reduce the occurrence and biomass of these important coastal species. Moreover, we showed that the reduction of herbivore occurrence is linked to reduction of their host macroalgae. Spatial predictive modelling and experimental biology have been traditionally seen as separate fields but stronger interlinkages between these disciplines can improve species distribution projections under climate change. Experiments enable qualitative prior knowledge to be defined and identify cause-effect relationships, and thereby better foresee alterations in ecosystem structure and functioning under future climate conditions that are not necessarily seen in projections based on non-causal statistical relationships alone.
Chromophore binding to two cysteines increases quantum yield of near-infrared fluorescent proteins
Authors: Buhrke David , Tavraz Neslihan N. , Shcherbakova Daria M. , Sauthof Luisa , Moldenhauer Marcus , Vélazquez Escobar Francisco , Verkhusha Vladislav V. , Hildebrandt Peter , Friedrich Thomas
Published: February 2019

Phytochromes are red/far-red light sensing photoreceptors employing linear tetrapyrroles as chromophores, which are covalently bound to a cysteine (Cys) residue in the chromophore-binding domain (CBD, composed of a PAS and a GAF domain). Recently, near-infrared (NIR) fluorescent proteins (FPs) engineered from bacterial phytochromes binding biliverdin IXα (BV), such as the iRFP series, have become invaluable probes for multicolor fluorescence microscopy and in vivo imaging. However, all current NIR FPs suffer from relatively low brightness. Here, by combining biochemical, spectroscopic and resonance Raman (RR) assays, we purified and characterized an iRFP variant that contains a BV chromophore simultaneously bound to two cysteines. This protein with the unusual double-Cys attached BV showed the highest fluorescence quantum yield (FQY) of 16.6% reported for NIR FPs, whereas the initial iRFP appeared to be a mixture of species with a mean FQY of 11.1%. The purified protein was also characterized with 1.3-fold higher extinction coefficient that together with FQY resulted in almost two-fold brighter fluorescence than the original iRFP as isolated. This work shows that the high FQY of iRFPs with two cysteines is a direct consequence of the double attachment. The PAS-Cys, GAF-Cys and double-Cys attachment each entails distinct configurational constraints of the BV adduct, which can be identified by distinct RR spectroscopic features, i.e. the marker band including the C=C stretching coordinate of the ring A-B methine bridge, which was previously identified as being characteristic for rigid chromophore embedment and high FQY. Our findings can be used to rationally engineer iRFP variants with enhanced FQYs.
Cdh2 coordinates Myosin-II dependent internalisation of the zebrafish neural plate
Authors: Araya Claudio , Häkkinen Hanna-Maria , Carcamo Luis , Cerda Mauricio , Savy Thierry , Rookyard Christopher , Peyriéras Nadine , Clarke Jonathan D. W.
Published: February 2019

Tissue internalisation is a key morphogenetic mechanism by which embryonic tissues generate complex internal organs and a number of studies of epithelia have outlined a general view of tissue internalisation. Here we have used quantitative live imaging and mutant analysis to determine whether similar mechanisms are responsible for internalisation in a tissue that apparently does not have a typical epithelial organisation – the zebrafish neural plate. We found that although zebrafish embryos begin neurulation without a conventional epithelium, medially located neural plate cells adopt strategies typical of epithelia in order to constrict their dorsal surface membrane during cell internalisation. Furthermore, we show that Myosin-II activity is a significant driver of this transient cell remodeling which also depends on Cdh2 (N-cadherin). Abrogation of Cdh2 results in defective Myosin-II distribution, mislocalised internalisation events and defective neural plate morphogenesis. Our work suggests Cdh2 coordinates Myosin-II dependent internalisation of the zebrafish neural plate.