bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparative analysis identifiesmicro‐RNAassociated with nutrient homeostasis, development and stress response inArabidopsis thalianaupon high Zn and metal hyperaccumulatorArabidopsis halleri
Authors: Fasani Elisa , DalCorso Giovanni , Zorzi Gianluca , Vitulo Nicola , Furini Antonella
Published: June 2021

miRNAs have been found to be key players in mineral homeostasis, both in the control of nutrient balance and in the response to toxic trace elements. However, the effect of Zn excess on miRNAs has not been elucidated; moreover, no data are present regarding miRNAs in hyperaccumulator species, where metal homeostasis is tightly regulated. Therefore, expression levels of mature miRNAs were measured by RNA‐Seq in Zn‐sensitiveArabidopsis thalianagrown in control conditions and upon high Zn, in soil and in Zn‐hyperaccumulatorArabidopsis hallerigrown in control conditions. Differential expression of notable miRNAs and their targets was confirmed by real‐time RT‐PCR. The comparison inA. thalianarevealed a small subset modulated upon Zn treatment that is associated with stress response and nutrient homeostasis. On the other hand, a more consistent group of miRNAs was differentially expressed inA. hallericompared withA. thaliana, reflecting inherent differences in nutritional requirements and response to stresses and plant growth and development. Overall, these results confirm the involvement of miRNAs in Zn homeostasis and support the hypothesis of distinct regulatory pathways in hyperaccumulator species.
Study of microRNA Expression Profile in Different Regions of Ram Epididymis
Authors: Wu Cuiling , Wang Chunxin , Zhai Bo , Zhao Yunhui , Zhao Zhuo , Yuan Zhiyu , Zhang Mingxin , Tian Kechuan , Fu Xuefeng
Published: June 2021

The regional expression of epididymal genes provides a guarantee for sperm maturation. As a class of endogenous non‐coding small RNAs, microRNAs (miRNAs) play an important role in spermatogenesis, maturation and fertilization. Currently, the regulatory role of miRNA in the epididymis is poorly understood. Here, transcriptome sequencing was used to analyse miRNA expression profiles in three regions of the epididymis of rams, including caput, corpus and cauda. The results showed that there were 13 known miRNAs between the caput and corpus controls, 29 between the caput and cauda and 22 differences between the corpus and cauda. Based on the analysis of miRNA target genes by GO and KEGG, a negative regulation network of miRNA–mRNA was constructed in which let‐7, miR‐541‐5p, miR‐133b and miR‐150 may play an important regulatory role in the maturation regulation of ram epididymal sperm. This research provides a reference for studying the regulation mechanism of sperm maturation in male epididymis and improving semen quality and male reproductive performance.
#Fitspiration on Instagram: The effects of fitness‐related images on women’s self‐perceived sexual attractiveness
Authors: Fioravanti Giulia , Tonioni Camilla , Casale Silvia
Published: June 2021

The present study looks at how exposure to Instagram #fitspiration images affects self‐rated sexual attractiveness among women. An experimental pre‐test/post‐test control group design was implemented. Four hundred and forty‐two female undergraduate students (mean age of 22.06 ± 2.15 years) were randomly exposed to either fitspiration (N = 233) or travel Instagram images (N = 209). Well known self‐report measures of Instagram use, body satisfaction, and self‐perceived sexual attractiveness were completed. The results showed that viewing fitspiration models on Instagram was more likely to lower self‐perceived sexual attractiveness among women than travel images. This effect was mediated by body satisfaction. The present findings built upon previous research that focuses on the detrimental effects of exposure to appearance‐focused Instagram profile images on body image satisfaction by showing that exposure to Instagram fitspiration might also influence women perceived sexual attractiveness. Negative consequences of social media exposure on women’s sexual well‐being need to be further investigated.
Drivers of productivity: Being physically active increases yet sedentary bouts and lack of sleep decrease work ability
Authors: Giurgiu Marco , Nissen Rebecca , Müller Gerhard , Ebner‐Priemer Ulrich W. , Reichert Markus , Clark Bronwyn
Published: June 2021

Physical behavior (ie, physical activity, sedentary behavior, and sleep) is a crucial lifestyle factor for preventing and managing diseases across the lifespan. However, less is known about potential work‐related psychological and cognitive outcomes such as productivity. The present study examined within‐person associations between physical behavior and self‐perceived work ability. To investigate the degree to which physical behavior parameters influence self‐perceived work ability in everyday life, we conducted an Ambulatory Assessment study in 103 university students over 5 days. Physical behavior was assessed continuously via a multi‐sensor system. Self‐perceived work ability was assessed repeatedly up to six times per day on smartphones. We employed multilevel modeling to analyze the within‐person effects of physical behavior on self‐perceived work ability. Physical activity intensity (MET) (β = 0.15 ± 0.06, t = 2.59, p = 0.012) and sit‐to‐stand transitions (β = 0.07 ± 0.03, t = 2.44, p = 0.015) were positively associated with self‐perceived work ability. Sedentary bouts (≥20 min) (β = −0.21 ± 0.08, t = −2.74, p = 0.006) and deviation from a recommended sleep duration (ie, 8 h) (β = −0.1 ± 0.04, t = −2.38, p = 0.018) were negatively associated with self‐perceived work ability. Exploratory analyses supported the robustness of our findings by comparing various time frames. Total sedentary time and sleep quality were not associated with self‐perceived work ability. Regular sleep durations, breaking up sedentary time through sit‐to‐stand transitions, and higher intensities of physical activity may be important for the regulation of self‐perceived work ability in university students’ daily lives.
Cardiopulmonary response to high‐altitude mountaineering in lung transplant recipients—The Jebel Toubkal experience
Authors: Schrutka Lore , Slama Alexis , Muehlbacher Jakob , Bessa Vasiliki , Lichtenegger Paul , Ghimessy Áron , Ebenbichler Gerold , Winkler Roland , Faybik Peter , Nachbaur Edith , Aigner Clemens , Hoetzenecker Konrad , Jaksch Peter , Benazzo Alberto
Published: June 2021

Objectives

Only a small proportion of lung transplant recipients achieve a physical status comparable to healthy individuals in the long term. It is reasonable to hypothesize that the necessary cardiopulmonary adaptation required for strenuous physical exercise may be impaired. Exposure to high altitude provides an optimal platform to study the physiological cardiopulmonary adaptation in lung transplant recipients under aerobic conditions. To gain a deeper understanding, 14 healthy lung transplant recipients and healthcare professionals climbed the highest peak in North Africa (Mount Jebel Toubkal; 4167 m) in September 2019.

Methods

Monitoring included daily assessment of vital signs, repeated transthoracic echocardiography, pulmonary function tests, and capillary blood sampling throughout the expedition.

Results

Eleven out of fourteen lung transplant recipients reached the summit. All recipients showed a stable lung function and vital parameters and physiological adaptation of blood gases. Similar results were found in healthy controls. Lung transplant recipients showed worse results in the 6‐minute walk test at low and high altitude compared to controls (day 1: 662 m vs. 725 m, p < 0.001, day 5: 656 m vs. 700 m, p = 0.033) and a lack of contractile adaptation of right ventricular function with increasing altitude as measured by tricuspid plane systolic excursion on echocardiography (day 2: 22 mm vs. 24 mm, p = 0.202, day 5: 23 mm vs. 26 mm, p = 0.035).

Conclusions

Strenuous exercise in healthy lung transplant recipients is safe. However, the poorer cardiopulmonary performance in the 6‐minute walk test and the lack of right ventricular cardiac adaptation may indicate underlying autonomic dysregulation.
How could we teach data science in primary school?
Authors: Fry Kym , Makar Katie
Published: June 2021

In this paper, we propose that informal aspects of data science could be introduced in primary school. The International Data Science in Schools Project (IDSSP) framework for data science curriculum provides a guide for a data science curriculum aimed at upper secondary level. We analyzed synergies between the IDSSP framework and the current content of the Australian Curriculum at the primary school level (ages 5‐11) for Mathematics, Digital Technologies, and two General Capabilities (ICT, Critical and Creative Thinking). Our findings suggest that the primary curriculum already exists to support informal, age‐appropriate data science content for young children. A vignette of a Year 4 (age 9) class is used to illustrate what such a curriculum could look like in practice.
On traversing the data landscape: Introducing APIs to data‐science students
Authors: Fergusson Anna , Wild Chris J.
Published: June 2021

The explosion in availability and variety of data requires learning experiences that reveal more of the data world faster and develop practical skills with digital technologies. Key high‐level goals of the International Data Science in Schools Project (IDSSP) include having students continually immersed in the cycle of learning from data, and data science being fun to teach and fun to learn. We advocate curiosity‐driven, exploratory learning for pursuing these goals. Our illustrations use tasks embedded in contexts that teenagers can relate to, provide visual rewards for computational actions, use rich data‐contexts, and integrate statistical and computational thinking. They provide engaging introductions to modern data sourced from databases via Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) that are accessible to a broad range of students and facilitate student personalization for investigation. We provide in‐depth discussion of teaching strategies that heavily involve questioning and student tinkering supported by graphical‐user interfaces that enable students to interact with the data sources rapidly in multiple ways.
Introducing students to machine learning with decision trees using CODAP and Jupyter Notebooks
Authors: Biehler Rolf , Fleischer Yannik
Published: June 2021

This paper reports on progress in the development of a teaching module on machine learning with decision trees for secondary‐school students, in which students use survey data about media use to predict who plays online games frequently. This context is familiar to students and provides a link between school and everyday experience. In this module, they use CODAP's “Arbor” plug‐in to manually build decision trees and understand how to systematically build trees based on data. Further on, the students use a menu‐based environment in a Jupyter Notebook to apply an algorithm that automatically generates decision trees and to evaluate and optimize the performance of these. Students acquire technical and conceptual skills but also reflect on personal and social aspects of the uses of algorithms from machine learning.
Caffeoylquinic acids: chemistry, biosynthesis, occurrence, analytical challenges, and bioactivity
Authors: Alcázar Magaña Armando , Kamimura Naofumi , Soumyanath Amala , Stevens Jan F. , Maier Claudia S.
Published: June 2021

Caffeoylquinic acids (CQAs) are specialized plant metabolites we encounter in our daily life. Humans consume CQAs in mg‐to‐gram quantities through dietary consumption of plant products. CQAs are considered beneficial for human health, mainly due to their anti‐inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Recently, new biosynthetic pathways via a peroxidase‐type p‐coumaric acid 3‐hydroxylase enzyme were discovered. More recently, a new GDSL lipase‐like enzyme able to transform monoCQAs into diCQA was identified in Ipomoea batatas. CQAs were recently linked to memory improvement; they seem to be strong indirect antioxidants via Nrf2 activation. However, there is a prevalent confusion in the designation and nomenclature of different CQA isomers. Such inconsistencies are critical and complicate bioactivity assessment since different isomers differ in bioactivity and potency. A detailed explanation regarding the origin of such confusion is provided, and a recommendation to unify nomenclature is suggested. Furthermore, for studies on CQA bioactivity, plant‐based laboratory animal diets contain CQAs, which makes it difficult to include proper control groups for comparison. Therefore, a synthetic diet free of CQAs is advised to avoid interferences since some CQAs may produce bioactivity even at nanomolar levels. Biotransformation of CQAs by gut microbiota, the discovery of new enzymatic biosynthetic and metabolic pathways, dietary assessment, and assessment of biological properties with potential for drug development are areas of active, ongoing research. This review is focused on the chemistry, biosynthesis, occurrence, analytical challenges, and bioactivity recently reported for mono‐, di‐, tri‐, and tetraCQAs.
Laboratory and clinical comparison of the efficacy of prestorage leukoreduction of red cells at cold versus room temperature
Authors: Mittal Siddharth , Chacko Mary Purna , Varughese Santosh , Raj Amal , Gowri Mahasampath , Thankachen Roy , Mammen Joy , Daniel Dolly
Published: June 2021

Background

The temperature at which filtration takes place has been reported to influence the efficacy of leukoreduction. We aimed to compare the residual leukocyte count (RLC) in red cell units (RCUs) filtered at cold (CT) versus room temperature (RT) and to assess whether this correlates clinically with a difference in the incidence of acute transfusion reactions (ATRs).

Methods and materials

In the first part of the study, whole blood units collected were randomly allocated for subsequent filtration at CT and RT, respectively. RLC postfiltration was assessed using flow cytometry. The second part of the study was a nonrandomized clinical trial in which incidence of ATR was compared between RCUs filtered at RT and CT for 6 months each.

Results

Thirty‐five RCUs each underwent leukofiltration at CT and RT, respectively. The median RLCs in the filtered units at CT and RT were 0.02 × 106 and 0.1 × 106 leukocytes/unit, respectively (p = .0001), with no difference in red blood cell (RBC) recovery (p = .41). During the second part, 3455 RCUs filtered at RT and 3539 RCUs filtered at CT were transfused to patients. The rate of febrile non‐hemolytic transfusion reaction (FNHTR) among transfused patients was less with units filtered at CT (1 per 2000 transfusions) in comparison to RT (1 per 588 transfusions). The difference was, however, not significant (p = .14).

Conclusion

If change in temperature alone can cause significant reduction in leukocytes, then it is a simple way to curtail the rate of this common yet unpleasant reaction and reduce the reaction rate at minimal cost.
There and back again: Translating adoptive cell therapy to canine cancer and improving human treatment
Authors: Brill Samuel A. , Thamm Douglas H.
Published: June 2021

Adoptive cell transfer (ACT) is a burgeoning therapeutic modality within human immuno‐oncology. Novel approaches towards ACT are being developed in the pre‐clinical setting faster than they can be evaluated in human clinical trials. Many of the therapeutic approaches used in human medicine have already been evaluated to some degree in canine patients. While this form of immunotherapy in veterinary medicine is still in its infancy, as these approaches develop, canine ACT will become a tool for both the veterinary oncologist and the translational researcher. This review details canine ACT trials to date, with attention given to the precedents provided by human oncology.
Yemen’s Human Rights Abuses Skyrocket Amidst Ongoing Chaos
Authors: Gabbay Shaul M.
Published: June 2021

Six years of war in Yemen have destroyed human rights in a country whose record was already abysmal. Yemen is considered the largest humanitarian crisis in the world, largely due to its food insecurity. Destroyed infrastructure, lack of services and fuel, a non-functioning government, and continued fighting has taken the lives of over 18,000 civilians, leaving survival efforts to take precedent overall. With no oversight, human rights are non-existent. A significant rise in violence has occurred against women including abuse, rape, and torture by a number of parties, including belligerents. Houthi rebels, Saudi forces, and Saudi backed Yemeni forces have all been documented to have committed serious abuses against civilians. For women, violence in the home is even worse. With extremely limited rights and protection, women remain vulnerable to domestic and sexual violence from relatives and have little to no recourse. Honor killings remain acceptable, and young girls are frequently married off as there is no minimum age of marriage. With chaos continuing to block most outside help, Yemeni’s will continue to suffer extreme human rights abuses until the war ends.
Integration of Food and Nutrition Education Across the Secondary School Curriculum: Two Experiential Models as Two Case Studies
Authors: Shakeri Shirin , Ruge Dorte , Myers Judith , Rolls Nicola , Papatraianou Lisa , Fethney Judith
Published: June 2021

The aim of this paper is to present the implementation and evaluation of two recognised programs, one from Australia and one from Denmark, that endeavour to integrate and enhance food and nutrition education across the secondary school curriculum and whole school programs. This paper details descriptions of design, delivery mode, core components and evaluation of each program based on existing detailed reports and original research investigations. Resultantly, one program in Australia (Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden Program) and one program in Denmark (LOMA or LOkal MAd = local food) are reported as two case studies. The target group for both programs is secondary school students in Years 7–12; both programs are conducted within secondary schools and within school hours. Both interventions focus on developing secondary students’ food production and food preparation knowledge and skills. Their evaluation methods have consisted of pre- and post-intervention surveys, single case study, and focus groups with both students and teachers. Both programs have reported possible integration across secondary school subjects and modifications in students’ knowledge and skills in food and nutrition. These programs have focused on developing an experiential and localised learning model for food and nutrition education, which may also address food insecurity concerns among adolescents which has been shown to correlate with poor nutrient intake and consequential health complications. Their overall model can be adapted taking into account the social, economic, and environmental context of a secondary school.
Mothers’ perceptions of the practice of kangaroo mother care for preterm neonates in sub-Saharan Africa: a systematic review of qualitative evidence
Authors: Bayo Pontius , Alobo Gasthony , Sauvé Caroline , Feyissa Garumma Tolu
Published: June 2021

Objective:

The objective of this review was to explore the experiences of mothers with the practice of kangaroo mother care for preterm neonates at home in sub-Saharan Africa.

Introduction:

Newborn deaths globally have remained high despite the significant reductions in deaths among under-fives over the past few decades. More than 7000 deaths occur daily around the globe, but mostly in sub-Saharan Africa. Of these deaths, 60% to 80% are due to preterm birth and low birth weight. Kangaroo mother care is known to offer a cheap and effective way to care for low birth weight, preterm neonates; however, its practice is still low. There is limited evidence on the factors that hinder or facilitate the practice of kangaroo mother care at the community level.

Inclusion criteria:

The review considered studies conducted in sub-Saharan Africa on the perceptions and experiences of mothers who had given birth to preterm babies and had practiced kangaroo mother care wholly or in part at home. Qualitative studies in English and French conducted from January 1979 to March 2019 were considered for inclusion if they exclusively used qualitative research methods including, but not limited to, phenomenology, grounded theory, ethnography, action research, or feminist research.

Methods:

PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, African Index Medicus (AIM), Academic Search Complete, CINAHL Complete, Education Source, and Health Source: Nursing/Academic Edition were searched in March 2019. Eligible studies were critically appraised using the standardized JBI tool. Findings were pooled using the meta-aggregative approach, and confidence was assessed according to the ConQual approach.

Results:

Following the systematic search and critical appraisal process, six studies were included in the review for data extraction and synthesis of findings. Three of the six studies were based on in-depth individual interviews, while two employed both individual interviews and focus group discussions, and one study used only focus group discussions. Twenty-six primary findings were generated from the review process that were aggregated into 10 categories, which generated four meta-synthesized findings:

Conclusions:

There is a link between the perceptions and experiences of kangaroo mother care that influences its practice in sub-Saharan Africa. The health care systems have failed to create awareness among communities before the birth of a preterm neonate. The traditional practices make kangaroo mother care stigmatizing at the community level, and the practice is perceived to be difficult and cumbersome, requiring substantial social support. Strategies to make the practice less cumbersome need to be devised, focusing on the comfort of mothers. Further qualitative studies are needed to explore community-level experiences of kangaroo mother care in sub-Saharan Africa.
Breast cancer in Indigenous women living in Canada: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Cole Katherine Marie , Hutton Brian , Hamel Candyce , Bourque Jean-Marc , Arnaout Angel , Clemons Mark
Published: June 2021

Objective:

The objective of this review is to describe and synthesize the current state of knowledge pertaining to breast cancer in Indigenous women living in Canada. We will examine the continuum of breast cancer care in this population, including breast cancer screening, diagnosis, treatment, and surveillance.

Introduction:

Breast cancer in Indigenous women is an evolving health care concern in Canada, with mounting evidence suggesting that these women present at later stages, and have poorer survival rates compared with the general population. A comprehensive overview of the state of knowledge of breast cancer in this population is required.

Inclusion criteria:

The population of interest will include Indigenous women living in Canada aged 18 years or older who have been screened or require screening for breast cancer, or who have been diagnosed with breast cancer. “Indigenous” will include women who identify as First Nations, Métis, or Inuit. Eligible sources must report on breast cancer risk factors, tumor characteristics, health systems access, screening, diagnosis, treatment, surveillance, or breast cancer outcomes. We will include analytic studies, surveys, case series, reviews, meta-analyses, and gray literature.

Methods:

We will conduct a search of five health sciences databases for relevant studies published in English or French from database inception onward. We will utilize dual independent screening for titles, abstracts, and full-text articles, and will utilize a similar method for gray literature sources. Data will be synthesized using a narrative approach, and outcomes of interest will be compared with data from the general breast cancer population.

Registration:

Open Science Framework https://osf.io/xkde5
Concentration of Stress Around Spherical and Cylindrical Inclusions and Flaws
Authors: Goodier J. N.
Published: June 2021

Solutions of the equation of elasticity are applied to investigate the disturbing effect of small spherical and cylindrical inclusions on an otherwise uniform stress distribution. Numerical results are found for gaseous inclusions (flaws), perfectly rigid inclusions, and for systems roughly representing slag globules in steel and reinforcing rods in concrete.
Notched-Bar Tests
Authors: Moser Max
Published: June 2021

In the present paper the author discusses the influence of such factors as temperature, width, and geometrical similarity in dimensions of specimens on the impact values as obtained by means of the notched-bar test. Various shapes of specimens for notched-bar tests are compared and their impact values determined.
Bayesian Calibrating Educational Building Thermal Models to Hourly Indoor Air Temperature: Methodology and Case Study
Authors: Hou Danlin , Shu Chang , Ji Lili , Hassan Ibrahim Galal , Wang Liangzhu (Leon)
Published: June 2021

With the increase in the frequency and duration of heatwaves and extreme temperatures, global warming becomes one of the most critical environmental issues. Heatwaves pose significant threats to human health, including related diseases and deaths, especially for vulnerable groups. Such as the one during the 2018 summer in Montreal, Canada, caused up to 53 deaths, with most lived in buildings without access to air-conditioning. Unlike building energy models that mainly focus on energy performance, building thermal models emphasizes indoor thermal performance without a mechanical system. It is required an understanding of the complex dynamic building thermal physics in which detailed building parameters need to be specified but challenging to be determined in real life. The uncertainty assessment of the parameters estimates can make the results more reliable. Therefore, in this paper, a Bayesian-based calibration procedure was presented and applied to an educational building. First, the building was modeled in EnergyPlus based on an in-site visit and related information collection. Second, a sensitivity analysis was performed to identify significant parameters affecting the errors between simulated and monitored indoor air temperatures. Then, a Meta-model was developed and used during the calibration process instead of the original EnergyPlus model to decrease the requirement of computing load and time. Subsequently, the Bayesian inference theory was employed to calibrate the model on hourly indoor air temperatures in summer. Finally, the model was validated. It is shown that the Bayesian calibration procedure not only can calibrate the model within the performance tolerance required by international building standards/codes but also predict future thermal performance with a confidence interval, which makes it more reliable.
Validity of the iPhone M7 Motion Coprocessor to Estimate Physical Activity During Structured and Free-Living Activities in Healthy Adults
Authors: Thomson Nicola K. , McMichan Lauren , Macrae Eilidh , Baker Julien S. , Muggeridge David J. , Easton Chris
Published: June 2021

Modern smartphones such as the iPhone contain an integrated accelerometer, which can be used to measure body movement and estimate the volume and intensity of physical activity. Objectives: The primary objective was to assess the validity of the iPhone to measure step count and energy expenditure during laboratory-based physical activities. A further objective was to compare free-living estimates of physical activity between the iPhone and the ActiGraph GT3X+ accelerometer. Methods: Twenty healthy adults wore the iPhone 5S and GT3X+ in a waist-mounted pouch during bouts of treadmill walking, jogging, and other physical activities in the laboratory. Step counts were manually counted, and energy expenditure was measured using indirect calorimetry. During two weeks of free-living, participants (n = 17) continuously wore a GT3X+ attached to their waist and were provided with an iPhone 5S to use as they would their own phone. Results: During treadmill walking, iPhone (703 ± 97 steps) and GT3X+ (675 ± 133 steps) provided accurate measurements of step count compared with the criterion method (700 ± 98 steps). Compared with indirect calorimetry (8 ± 3 kcal·min−1), the iPhone (5 ± 1 kcal·min−1) underestimated energy expenditure with poor agreement. During free-living, the iPhone (7,990 ± 4,673 steps·day−1) recorded a significantly lower (p < .05) daily step count compared with the GT3X+ (9,085 ± 4,647 steps·day−1). Conclusions: The iPhone accurately estimated step count during controlled laboratory walking but recorded a significantly lower volume of physical activity compared with the GT3X+ during free-living.
“He Could Be Dangerous”: Orientalism, Deradicalization, and the Representation of Refugee Muslim Boxers in TSN’s Radical Play
Authors: Ehsan Ali Adam , King Samantha
Published: June 2021

In April 2016, TSN (The Sports Network), one of Canada’s most prominent broadcasting stations, aired a documentary miniseries,Radical Play, that describes how European organizations are “harnessing sport to prevent isolated Muslim youth from joining extremist groups.” The documentary focuses on Younes, a 17-year-old refugee in Hamburg, Germany, who has been recruited to participate in a deradicalization program run through a local boxing gym. This article offers a contextualized reading ofRadical Playthat explores how the problem of radicalization is constructed in the Canadian context, how sport is positioned in relation to deradicalization projects, and how deeply held beliefs about Muslim boys and men are communicated to Canadians through sporting discourses.
Lysine methylation shields an intracellular pathogen from ubiquitylation and autophagy
Authors: Engström Patrik , Burke Thomas P. , Tran Cuong J. , Iavarone Anthony T. , Welch Matthew D.
Published: June 2021

Lysine methylation camouflages a bacterial pathogen from the host ubiquitin attack.
For WHO leader, a ‘feeling that we're failing’
Authors: Cohen Jon
Published: June 2021

Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus had expected more social responsibility in the face of a global crisis.
The lysosomal Rag-Ragulator complex licenses RIPK1– and caspase-8–mediated pyroptosis by
Yersinia
Authors: Zheng Zengzhang , Deng Wanyan , Bai Yang , Miao Rui , Mei Shenglin , Zhang Zhibin , Pan Youdong , Wang Yi , Min Rui , Deng Fan , Wu Zeyu , Li Wu , Chen Pengcheng , Ma Tianchi , Lou Xiwen , Lieberman Judy , Liu Xing
Published: June 2021

Cell death limits pathogens

During infection,
Yersinia
inhibition of the protein kinase TAK1 triggers cleavage of the pore-forming protein gasdermin D (GSDMD), which leads to a kind of inflammatory cell death called pyroptosis. In a genome-wide screen, Zheng
et al.
identified a lysosome-tethered regulatory supercomplex as being a critical driver of
Yersinia
-induced pyroptosis. The activity of the GTPase Rag and lysosomal tethering of Rag-Ragulator were required to recruit and activate the kinase RIPK1 and protease caspase-8 to cleave GSDMD, which causes cell death and limits infection. By contrast, Rag-Ragulator was not required for inflammasome-mediated pyroptosis. Thus, metabolic signaling on lysosomes can regulate cell death during pathogenic bacterial infection.

Science
, abg0269, this issue p.
eabg0269
Pressure-driven fusion of amorphous particles into integrated monoliths
Authors: Mu Zhao , Kong Kangren , Jiang Kai , Dong Hongliang , Xu Xurong , Liu Zhaoming , Tang Ruikang
Published: June 2021

The making of a monolith

Amorphous calcium carbonate is a hard material that is difficult to make into large, clear blocks. It is also sensitive to heating, and compacting the starting nanoparticles too much tends to lead to crystallization. Mu
et al.
determined the optimal amount of water in amorphous calcium carbonate to create clear, solid monoliths through compression. The key is to regulate the amount of diffusion in the system so that particle boundaries fuse without triggering sample-wide crystallization. This fusion strategy may also work for similar amorphous inorganic ionic compounds.

Science
, abg1915, this issue p.
1466
Inclusion in citizen science: The conundrum of rebranding
Authors: Cooper Caren B. , Hawn Chris L. , Larson Lincoln R. , Parrish Julia K. , Bowser Gillian , Cavalier Darlene , Dunn Robert R. , Haklay Mordechai (Muki) , Gupta Kaberi Kar , Jelks Na'Taki Osborne , Johnson Valerie A. , Katti Madhusudan , Leggett Zakiya , Wilson Omega R. , Wilson Sacoby
Published: June 2021

Does replacing the term “citizen science” do more harm than good?
Hybrid immunity
Authors: Crotty Shane
Published: June 2021

COVID-19 vaccine responses provide insights into how the immune system perceives threats
Work undone—HIV/AIDS in the USA
Authors: Beyrer Chris
Published: June 2021

This month marks a somber anniversary—40 years since the first reported cases in the United States of what would later become known as AIDS. There have been tremendous basic, clinical, and prevention advances in HIV science over the past four decades. Yet, despite widespread messaging that the United States is on track to “end AIDS,” the latest trends in infection tell a different story. One fundamental reality underlies the country's failure to achieve control of the HIV epidemic and could undermine efforts to end AIDS—the lack of access to health care for all Americans.
Recurrent angiosarcoma of scalp with opsoclonus myoclonus syndrome: role of salvage treatment
Authors: Periasamy Kannan , Das Namrata , Khosla Divya , Kapoor Rakesh
Published: June 2021

Cutaneous angiosarcoma is a type of rare and locally aggressive malignancy requiring individualised treatment owing to paucity of randomised trials. We present the case of a middle-aged cancer survivor with locally advanced angiosarcoma of scalp managed with surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy and targeted therapy over a course of 6 years for two recurrences. The first recurrence was preceded by opsoclonus myoclonus syndrome, a type of paraneoplastic neurological syndrome (PNS), rarely reported in sarcomas. The second recurrence had a rapid clinical course, which led to a therapeutic dilemma of best supportive care versus active management. A trial of weekly paclitaxel was started that was continued for a total of 12 cycles with good objective clinical response. Presently, he is tolerating maintenance pazopanib well and is symptom free for 6 months. In cutaneous angiosarcoma patients, PNS may be a harbinger of recurrence and aggressive, multimodality treatment helps prolong survival.
Adult Xp11.2 translocation renal cell carcinoma managed effectively with pazopanib
Authors: Solano Cristian , Thapa Shrinjaya , Chisti Mohammad Muhsin
Published: June 2021

Xp11.2 translocation renal cell carcinoma (TRCC) is a rare and aggressive variant of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) when presenting in adults. We report a case of a man in his early 40s who was diagnosed with stage III Xp11.2 TRCC and underwent radical nephrectomy. Seven months following the surgery, an adrenal nodule and bilateral pulmonary nodules were discovered. He underwent cryoablation of the adrenal nodule and systemic treatment with daily pazopanib. He displayed stable disease for approximately 6 years. Following this period, multiple hospitalisations interrupted daily pazopanib therapy resulting in progression of disease. His regimen was then changed to ipilimumab and nivolumab, followed by current daily therapy with axitinib. The patient now shows stable disease in his 10th year after diagnosis. This case study demonstrates the efficacy of pazopanib for metastatic Xp11.2 TRCC and warrants further investigation to supplement the guidelines regarding the use of targeted therapy for TRCC.
Ovarian vein thrombosis in the postnatal period
Authors: Dunphy Louise , Tang Aie Wei
Published: June 2021

Although ovarian vein thrombosis (OVT) is classically considered a puerperal pathology, it can also occur in nonpuerperal settings such as endometritis, pelvic inflammatory disease, Crohn’s disease, pelvic or gynaecological surgeries and thrombophilia. Hypercoagulation conditions such as antiphospholipid syndrome, systemic lupus erythematosus, factor V Leiden and protein C and S deficiency are all recognised risk factors. It is also a known complication during pregnancy often presenting with fever and lower abdominal pain within weeks after delivery. Its incidence is exceedingly rare, occurring in 0.05% of all pregnancies that result in live births and peaking around 2–6 days after delivery. Its preferential involvement of the right ovarian vein may be explained by the compression of the inferior vena cava and the right ovarian vein due to dextrorotation of the uterus during pregnancy. Furthermore, antegrade flow of blood and multiple incompetent valves in the right ovarian vein favours bacterial infection. Complications may include sepsis and thrombus extension to the inferior vena cava or left renal vein and rarely, pulmonary embolism. The authors present the case of a 27-year-old woman with lower abdominal pain 5 weeks after an elective caesarean section. Although the diagnosis of postpartum endometritis was initially considered, a CT suggested a right OVT. She commenced treatment with low-molecular weight heparin. A high index of clinical suspicion is required in order to establish the diagnosis of this rare cause of abdominal pain, which can mimic an acute abdomen.
Histopathological effects of electrosurgical interventions in an in vivo porcine model of colonic endoscopic mucosal resection
Authors: Whitfield Anthony M , Burgess Nicholas G , Bahin Farzan F , Kabir Sharir , Pellisé María , Sonson Rebecca , Subramanian Vishnu , Mahajan Hema , McLeod Duncan , Byth Karen , Bourke Michael J
Published: June 2021

Objective

Endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) in the colon has been widely adopted, but there is limited data on the histopathological effects of the differing electrosurgical currents (ESCs) used. We used an in vivo porcine model to compare the tissue effects of ESCs for snare resection and adjuvant margin ablation techniques.

Design

Standardised EMR was performed by a single endoscopist in 12 pigs. Two intersecting 15 mm snare resections were performed. Resections were randomised 1:1 using either a microprocessor-controlled current (MCC) or low-power coagulating current (LPCC). The lateral margins of each defect were treated with either argon plasma coagulation (APC) or snare tip soft coagulation (STSC). Colons were surgically removed at 72 hours. Two specialist pathologists blinded to the intervention assessed the specimens.

Results

88 defects were analysed (median 7 per pig, median defect size 29×17 mm). For snare ESC effects, 156 tissue sections were assessed. LPCC was comparable to MCC for deep involvement of the colon wall. For margin ablation, 172 tissue sections were assessed. APC was comparable to STSC for deep involvement of the colon wall. Islands of preserved mucosa at the coagulated margin were more likely with APC compared with STSC (16% vs 5%, p=0.010).

Conclusion

For snare resection, MCC and LPCC did not produce significantly different tissue effects. The submucosal injectate may protect the underlying tissue, and technique may more strongly dictate the depth and extent of final injury. For margin ablation, APC was less uniform and complete compared with STSC.
Investigation of post-trial access views among study participants and stakeholders using photovoice and semistructured interviews
Authors: Ngwenya Nothando , Iwuji Collins , Petersen Nabeel , Myeni Nompilo , Nxumalo Samukelisiwe , Ngema Ursula , Seeley Janet
Published: June 2021

Purpose

We examine the levels of post-trial responsibility ascribed to different stakeholders, following a community-based clinical trial and how the ‘responsibility’ is understood.

Methods

We employed photovoice, unstructured observations and key informant interviews to gain insights into contexts of access to care following transition to the public health system post trial. We used an inductive narrative analysis to explore experiences and understandings of post-trial access (PTA).

Results

In their photovoice stories, many participants expressed a sense of abandonment after the trial. This was viewed as a contributing factor to failing to re-engage with care available in the public health system. This led to the experiences of loss as some trial participants defaulted and died. Research investigators, department of health participants and sponsor agreed that PTA was especially important for communities in resource-limited settings. The government has an obligation towards its citizens while researchers have a responsibility to ensure a smooth transition of patients to public clinics. Sponsors have a responsibility to ensure that the trial is conducted in accordance with the protocol and post-trial agreements are in place and adhered to. Research partnerships among stakeholders were affected by power imbalances making it difficult to negotiate and plan for post-trial care responsibilities.

Conclusions

The research community still struggles with understanding the scope of PTA responsibilities. Power dynamics between public health actors and research sponsors need to be managed to ensure that government involvement is not tokenistic. The responsibility of trial participants and ethics committees needs to be investigated further.
Who will receive the last ventilator: why COVID-19 policies should not prioritise healthcare workers
Authors: Chen Donna T , Shepherd Lois , Taylor Jordan , Marshall Mary Faith
Published: June 2021

Policies promoted and adopted for allocating ventilators during the COVID-19 pandemic have often prioritised healthcare workers or other essential workers. While the need for such policies has so far been largely averted, renewed stress on health systems from continuing surges, as well as the experience of allocating another scarce resource—vaccination—counsel revisiting the justifications for such prioritisation. Prioritising healthcare workers may have intuitive appeal, but the ethical justifications for doing so and the potential harms that could follow require careful analysis. Ethical justifications commonly offered for healthcare worker prioritisation for ventilators rest on two social value criteria: (1) instrumental value, also known as the ‘multiplier effect’, which may preserve the ability of healthcare workers to help others, and (2) reciprocity, which rewards past usefulness or sacrifice. We argue that these justifications are insufficient to over-ride the common moral commitment to value each person’s life equally. Institutional policies prioritising healthcare workers over other patients also violate other ethical norms of the healthcare professions, including the commitment to put patients first. Furthermore, policy decisions to prioritise healthcare workers for ventilators could engender or deepen existing distrust of the clinicians, hospitals and health systems where those policies exist, even if they are never invoked.
A note on psychological continuity theories of identity and neurointerventions
Authors: Holmen Sebastian Jon
Published: June 2021

An important concern sometimes voiced in the neuroethical literature is that swift and radical changes to the parts of a person’s mental life essential for sustaining his/her numerical identity can result in the person ceasing to exist—in other words, that these changes may disrupt psychological continuity. Taking neurointerventions used for rehabilitative purposes as a point of departure, this short paper argues that the same radical alterations of criminal offenders’ psychological features which under certain conditions would result in a disruption of numerical identity (and, thus, the killing of the offender) can be achieved without these having any effect on numerical identity. Thus, someone interested in making radical alterations to offenders’ psychology can avoid the charge that this would kill the offenders, while still achieving a radical transformation of them. The paper suggests that this possibility makes the question of what kinds of qualitive alterations to offenders’ identity are morally permissible (more?) pressing, but then briefly highlights some challenges for arguments against making radical qualitative identity alterations to offenders.
Bronchoscopic needle-based confocal laser endomicroscopy (nCLE) as a real-time detection tool for peripheral lung cancer
Authors: Kramer Tess , Wijmans Lizzy , de Bruin Martijn , van Leeuwen Ton , Radonic Teodora , Bonta Peter , Annema Jouke T
Published: June 2021

Introduction

Diagnosing peripheral lung cancer with the bronchoscope is challenging with near miss of the target lesion as major obstacle. Needle-based confocal laser endomicroscopy (nCLE) enables real-time microscopic tumour visualisation at the needle tip (smart needle).

Aim

To investigate feasibility and safety of bronchoscopic nCLE imaging of suspected peripheral lung cancer and to assess whether nCLE imaging allows real-time discrimination between malignancy and airway/lung parenchyma.

Methods

Patients with suspected peripheral lung cancer based on (positron emission tomography-)CT scan underwent radial endobronchial ultrasound (rEBUS) and fluoroscopy-guided flexible bronchoscopy. After rEBUS lesion detection, an 18G needle loaded with the CLE probe was inserted in the selected airway under fluoroscopic guidance. The nCLE videos were obtained at the needle tip, followed by aspirates and biopsies. The nCLE videos were reviewed and compared with the cytopathology of the corresponding puncture and final diagnosis. Five blinded raters validated nCLE videos of lung tumours and airway/lung parenchyma twice.

Results

The nCLE imaging was performed in 26 patients. No adverse events occurred. In 24 patients (92%) good to high quality videos were obtained (final diagnosis; lung cancer n=23 and organising pneumonia n=1). The nCLE imaging detected malignancy in 22 out of 23 patients with lung cancer. Blinded raters differentiated nCLE videos of malignancy from airway/lung parenchyma (280 ratings) with a 95% accuracy. The inter-observer agreement was substantial (κ=0.78, 95% CI 0.70 to 0.86) and intra-observer reliability excellent (mean±SD κ=0.81±0.05).

Conclusion

Bronchoscopic nCLE imaging of peripheral lung lesions is feasible, safe and allows real-time lung cancer detection. Blinded raters accurately distinguished nCLE videos of lung cancer from airway/lung parenchyma, showing the potential of nCLE imaging as real-time guidance tool.
Sex- and tissue-dependent creatine uptake in response to different creatine monohydrate doses in male and female Sprague–Dawley rats
Authors: Dunham Tyler C. , Murphy Jensen E. , MacPherson Rebecca E.K. , Fajardo Val Andrew , Ward Wendy E. , Roy Brian D.
Published: June 2021

Sprague–Dawley rats (n = 32) underwent 8-weeks of creatine monohydrate (CM) supplementation (0, 2.5, 5, and 10 g/L). Total creatine (TCr) concentrations in female white fibre-dominant gastrocnemius (WGAS) and cardiac muscle (HRT) were significantly higher compared with males (p < 0.05). CM supplementation increased TCr concentrations in female WGAS (p < 0.05) and HRT (p < 0.01) and in male red fibre-dominant gastrocnemius muscle (RGAS) (p < 0.05). Future research should further investigate sex-differences in basal levels of TCr and the response to CM supplementation.

Novelty: There is a sex- and tissue-dependant response to CM supplementation in rats.