bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Photosynthesis and crop productivity are enhanced by glucose‐functionalised carbon dots
Authors: Swift Thomas A. , Fagan Daniel , Benito‐Alifonso David , Hill Stephen A. , Yallop Marian L. , Oliver Thomas A. A. , Lawson Tracy , Galan M. Carmen , Whitney Heather M.
Published: August 2020

From global food security to textile production and biofuels, the demands currently made on plant photosynthetic productivity will continue to increase. Enhancing photosynthesis using designer, green and sustainable materials offers an attractive alternative to current genetic‐based strategies and promising work with nanomaterials has recently started to emerge.

Here we describe the in planta use of carbon‐based nanoparticles produced by low‐cost renewable routes that are bioavailable to mature plants. Uptake of these functionalised nanoparticles directly from the soil improves photosynthesis and also increases crop production.

We show for the first time that glucose functionalisation enhances nanoparticle uptake, photoprotection and pigment production, unlocking enhanced yields. This was demonstrated in Triticum aestivum ‘Apogee’ (dwarf bread wheat) and resulted in an 18% increase in grain yield.

This establishes the viability of a functional nanomaterial to augment photosynthesis as a route to increased crop productivity.
The effect of workplace lifestyle programmes on diet, physical activity, and weight‐related outcomes for working women: A systematic review using the TIDieR checklist
Authors: Madden Seonad K. , Cordon Emma L. , Bailey Cate , Skouteris Helen , Ahuja Kiran , Hills Andrew P. , Hill Briony
Published: August 2020

Physical activity and healthy diets are essential for the prevention of obesity and chronic disease that disparately impact women compared with men. Given the number of women engaged in the workforce, workplace interventions could improve lifestyle behaviours and health outcomes for women. This systematic review aimed to identify intervention characteristics of lifestyle programmes or organizational policy changes in the workplace associated with improved diet, physical activity, or weight‐related outcomes for working women using the template for intervention description and replication (TIDieR) checklist. Seven databases were searched for controlled studies published up to March 2019 that included a workplace diet and/or physical activity intervention. From 5,318 identified records, 20 studies (23 articles and 26 intervention arms) were included. Data were extracted on diet, physical activity, weight‐related outcomes, and TIDieR components. Findings indicated that group delivery may improve physical activity outcomes, and a high number of sessions may benefit weight‐related outcomes for physical activity interventions. Mixed interventions that included tailoring and input from non‐healthcare professionals may also enhance physical activity. In contrast, the role of mixed interventions in improving diet and weight‐related outcomes was less clear. Overall, workplace health programmes were effective at improving lifestyle behaviours for working women.
Hyaenas and lions: how the largest African carnivores interact at carcasses
Authors: Amorós Mar , Gil‐Sánchez José M. , López‐Pastor Beatriz de las N. , Moleón Marcos
Published: August 2020

The study of the competitive interactions between predators has traditionally been approached within the context of predatory behavior. By using a quasi‐experimental, non‐intrusive approach, we go beyond the classical view that predators only compete for living prey and disentangle the mechanisms of exploitative and interference competition between two charismatic apex predators, lions Panthera leo and spotted hyaenas Crocuta crocuta, at carcasses other than their own kills. Carcasses of different sizes were monitored in two study areas of South Africa: one with both lions and hyaenas and the other with hyaenas only. We found evidence of both symmetric exploitative competition and asymmetric interference competition. Interactions were strongly conditioned by carcass size, and co‐occurrence was mostly recorded at large ungulate carcasses. Interference competition seemed to dominate interspecific interactions, with lions having preferential access. However, interference while feeding did not exert any cost on the subordinate hyaenas, in terms of amount of ingested food and consumption rate, probably thanks to the reward provided by large carcasses in the form of abundant carrion, the use of lions to detect carcasses, and spatiotemporal segregation at the carcass‐scale. Securing a diverse carrion supply in terms of carcass size, including megaherbivore carcasses, may favor the coexistence of the largest African carnivores, especially in small protected areas. Overall, our study reveals mechanisms related to both the food resource heterogeneity and the competitor behavior that allow the coexistence of strongly interacting species.
Data collected by fruit body‐ and DNA‐based survey methods yield consistent species‐to‐species association networks in wood‐inhabiting fungal communities
Authors: Saine Sonja , Ovaskainen Otso , Somervuo Panu , Abrego Nerea
Published: August 2020

Inferring interspecific interactions indirectly from community data is of central interest in community ecology. Data on species communities can be surveyed using different methods, each of which may differ in the amount and type of species detected, and thus produce varying information on interaction networks. Since fruit bodies reflect only a fraction of the wood‐inhabiting fungal diversity, there is an ongoing debate in fungal ecology on whether fruit body‐based surveys are a valid method for studying fungal community dynamics compared to surveys based on DNA metabarcoding. In this paper, we focus on species‐to‐species associations and ask whether the associations inferred from data collected by fruit‐body surveys reflect the ones found from data collected by DNA‐based surveys. We estimate and compare the association networks resulting from different survey methods using a joint species distribution model. We recorded both raw and residual associations that respectively do not and do correct for the influence of the abiotic predictors when estimating the species‐to‐species associations. The analyses of the DNA data yielded a larger number of species‐to‐species associations than the analyses of the fruit body‐based data as expected. Yet, we estimated unique associations also from the fruit‐body data. Our results show that the directions of estimated residual associations were consistent between the data types, whereas the raw associations were much less consistent, highlighting the need to account for the influence of relevant environmental covariates when estimating association networks. We conclude that even though DNA‐based survey methods are more informative about the total number of interacting species, fruit‐body surveys are also an adequate method for inferring association networks in wood‐inhabiting fungi. Since the DNA and fruit‐body data carry on complementary information on fungal communities, the most comprehensive insights are obtained by combining the two survey methods.
What Kind of “Real World” Makes South Korea's Middle Power Categorization Necessary?*
Authors: Jeong Monica S.
Published: August 2020

The fundamental dilemma in the middle power study is the repeated epistemic fallacies that attempt to answer an ontological question of middle powers with epistemic features. With the common epistemic belief that middle powers are significant actors that play some constructive roles, South Korea is automatically designated as a middle power as long as the agent (researcher or practitioner) finds comparable middle power‐like characteristics in South Korea's material attributes and foreign policy behaviors. However, this research adopted a critical realist research design that addresses the epistemic fallacy and finds the “real world” that makes South Korea's middle power categorization necessary. It analyzed South Korea's middle power rhetoric in South Korean presidents' and foreign ministers' foreign policy discourses, and ultimately uncovered that the “real world” behind South Korea's middle power rhetoric has been its environment comprised of the dominant and less dominant countries. As the less dominant country, South Korea has utilized the middle power title to balance and neutralize the asymmetrical power relations and create an environment more conducive to South Korea's national interests. This includes the removal of South Korea's deeply ingrained victim mindset. Yet, it should be emphasized that such a conclusion is valid only because of the critical realist research design, committed to ontological realism, epistemological relativism, and judgmental rationalism. If not, South Korea's unequal power environment would be viewed as merely an additional condition that a “middle power” South Korea must deal with.
Diagnosis and management of genital injuries in girls: 14‐year experience
Authors: Hoshi Reina , Uehara Shuichiro , Hashimoto Makoto , Hosokawa Takashi , Kawashima Hiroyuki , Kaneda Hide , Hoshino Mayumi , Koshinaga Tsugumichi
Published: August 2020

Background

Pediatric patients with genital injuries are often recommended to receive an examination under general anesthesia; however, detailed clinical data of such patients are rarely reported.

Methods

A single‐center retrospective review was conducted in 45 girls less than 16 years of age with genital injuries between January 2005 and December 2018.

Results

The median patient age was 5.0 years. Forty‐two patients were hospitalized, of whom 38 required an examination under general anesthesia and all consequently required surgical repair. The diagnosis obtained after a thorough examination under general anesthesia was inconsistent with the diagnosis obtained at the emergency room in five patients. In 20 patients, the source of bleeding was not clarified at the time of initial examination at the emergency room; four of these patients were later revealed to have vaginal or rectal injuries that had been overlooked during the examination at the emergency room. Injuries occurring in the bathroom were the most frequent and tended to be serious. Multiple injuries were found in 10 patients. The exterior of the labia minora was the most commonly injured site, found in 18 patients.

Conclusions

We analyzed the clinical data of girls with genital injuries in detail, which allowed us to find a detailed classification of injured sites and the characteristics of serious cases, and to re‐recognize the importance of a thorough examination under general anesthesia.
Current practice of antithrombotic prophylaxis in pediatric kidney transplantation—Results of an international survey on behalf of the European Society for Paediatric Nephrology
Authors: Buder Kathrin , Zirngibl Matthias , Bapistella Sascha , Nadalin Silvio , Tönshoff Burkhard , Weitz Marcus ,   Members of the “Transplantation Working Group” of the European Society for Paediatric Nephrology (ESPN)
Published: August 2020

Background

Renal graft thrombosis (RGT) is one of the main causes for early graft loss in pediatric kidney transplantation (KTx). Despite the lack of evidence‐based recommendations, antithrombotic prophylaxis (aP) is used to prevent RGT.

Methods

An online survey supported by the European Society for Pediatric Nephrology was developed to investigate the current practice of aP in pediatric KTx recipients <18 years.

Results

A total of 80 pediatric KTx centers from 37 countries participated in the survey. Antithrombotic prophylaxis was performed in 96% of the pediatric renal transplant centers (all/selected patients: 54%/42%). The main overall used drugs were as follows: low‐molecular‐weight heparin (89%), unfractionated heparin (UFH) (69%), and acetylsalicylic acid (ASS) (55%). Ten different aP management strategies were identified as follows: 51% used a single drug and 48% combined two drugs sequentially. The corresponding centers started aP predominantly within 24 hours after pediatric KTx; 51% preferred UFH for starting aP. In centers switching to a second drug (51%), this change was performed after 10 ± 6 days; of these 57% preferred ASS for maintenance aP. Reported median aP duration was 51 days (range 1‐360).

Conclusions

Despite the use of aP in almost all responding pediatric KTx centers, there is no uniform management strategy. Notwithstanding, UFH seems to be the preferred drug for the early post‐operative period of pediatric KTx, and ASS for maintenance prophylaxis following pediatric KTx. Prospective studies are needed to further evaluate the benefits and risks of aP, preferably resulting in guidelines for the management in pediatric KTx.
The relative importance of enhancement to the production of Salmon on Iturup Island (Kuril Islands, Russia)
Authors: Klovach Natalya , Leman Vsevolod , Gordeev Ilya
Published: August 2020

A historical review of biological enhancement and fisheries for Iturup Island demonstrates that enhancement has significantly increased numbers of chum salmon while pink salmon are produced almost entirely naturally. Fourteen hatcheries currently produce and release chum salmon fry; four of these also generate pink salmon. Favourable natural conditions make the waters near Iturup Island one of the most productive marine areas in the Russian Far East. Efficient hatcheries combined with favourable conditions resulted in increases in chum salmon catches from less than 100 tonnes in the early 1990s to more than 20 000 tonnes in the late 2010s. Becoming better informed of factors controlling salmon production in the Kuril Islands should help scientists in other regions of the North Pacific understand what controls their own salmon populations.
Recovery of sperms bearing X chromosomes with different concentrations of magnetic nanoparticles in ram
Authors: Moradi Maryam , Hajarian Hadi , Karamishabankareh Hamed , Soltani Leila , Soleymani Bijan
Published: August 2020

Pre‐conceptual sex selection is still a highly debatable process whereby X and Y chromosome bearing spermatozoa are isolated before oocyte fertilization. Recently, magnetic nanoparticles (MNP) have been used to determine X and Y chromosomes bearing spermatozoa as a result of searching for a cheap, highly efficient method using non‐toxic materials. This study aimed to recover the sperm bearing X chromosomes in ram with different concentrations of MNP and then evaluate the success of this method using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Ram sperms were divided into four groups, treated with 0 (control), 50, 100 and 200 μg/ml MNP, respectively. MNP was used to restore sperm cells bearing X chromosomes. Upon recovery, the PCR was performed to identify the X and Y sperms, Methyl ThiazoleTetrazolium (MTT), to assess MNP toxicity and sperm viability and acridine orange (AO) to evaluate sperm DNA integrity. The results of PCR revealed that the treatment of spermatozoa‐ bearing X chromosomes with 50 μg/ml MNP had the highest effects on the recovery of X sperm rather than the other concentrations of MNP. However, the concentrations of MNP did not have any toxic effects on spermatozoa, sperm viability and, DNA integrity, but the high concentration of MNP (200 μg/ml) significantly reduced DNA integrity. According to MTT and AO results, the concentrations of MNP used in this study had no toxic effects on spermatozoa and did not reduce the sperm viability and DNA integrity, except that 200 μg/ml MNP significantly reduced DNA integrity.
The Need to Reconcile Concepts that Characterize Systems Facing Threats
Authors: Galaitsi S. E. , Keisler Jeffrey M. , Trump Benjamin D. , Linkov Igor
Published: August 2020

Desirable system performance in the face of threats has been characterized by various management concepts. Through semistructured interviews with editors of journals in the fields of emergency response and systems management, a literature review, and professional judgment, we identified nine related and often interchangeably used system performance concepts: adaptability, agility, reliability, resilience, resistance, robustness, safety, security, and sustainability. A better understanding of these concepts will allow system planners to pursue management strategies best suited to their unique system dynamics and specific objectives of good performance. We analyze expert responses and review the linguistic definitions and mathematical framing of these concepts to understand their applications. We find a lack of consensus on their usage between interview subjects, but by using the mathematical framing to enrich the linguistic definitions, we formulate comparative visualizations and propose distinct definitions for the nine concepts. We present a conceptual framing to relate the concepts for management purposes.
Oral health in children with cerebral palsy: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Bensi Caterina , Costacurta Micaela , Docimo Raffaella
Published: August 2020

Aims

Aim of the present systematic review and meta‐analysis is to investigate the oral health status of children with cerebral palsy and to compare it to that of healthy children.

Methods and results

An electronic search extended to October 2019 was conducted on PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and Cochrane Library. Two independent reviewers selected publications using a two‐stage process; data were extracted according to PRISMA statement. The Newcastle Ottawa Scale was used to evaluate the risk of bias in individual studies. After screening of the 5460 studies selected 20 publications were included in the systematic review, 15 underwent quantitative analysis. In the palsy population statistical analysis showed an OR = 1.45 (95% CI: 1.05‐2.00) for dental caries in the primary dentition and OR = 1.87 (95% CI: 1.07‐3.24) for the simplified oral hygiene index. The OR of Angle's Class II and anterior open bite were 3.27 (95% CI: 1.22‐8.81) and 14.06 (95% CI: 6.26‐31.62), respectively.

Conclusion

Children with cerebral palsy seem to present an increased risk of dental caries in the primary dentition, of Angle's Class II malocclusion, anterior open bite and a lower gingival status.
Homeworld/Alienworld: a qualitative study about existential experiences after cancer treatment
Authors: Ueland Venke , Dysvik Elin , Rørtveit Kristine , Furnes Bodil
Published: August 2020

Background

As a group, cancer survivors experience significant vulnerability and existential challenges. The biomedical approach dominating health care is insufficient to meet such existential challenges in an individualistic, holistic way.

Objective

This study aimed to explore the existential experiences of those treated for different cancers.

Methods

An exploratory phenomenological–hermeneutical design was used to obtain an understanding of existential experiences after cancer treatment. Data were collected through in‐depth interviews with 21 individuals who represented a purposive sample and were recruited from a cancer organisation.

Results

Three overriding themes emerged from the phenomenological–hermeneutical analysis are as follows: Experiencing an unfamiliar tiredness; Experiencing not being fully oneself; and Experiencing a feeling of being alone.

Conclusions

Existential suffering after cancer treatment involves living on the edge of the old homeworld and the experience of a new alienworld. Individuals undergoing such suffering need a transformational process, from the alienworld to the homeworld, which must be supported by the healthcare system.

Implications for practice

To facilitate the transformational process, healthcare professionals should communicate with patients throughout their cancer journey about how their existential experiences have been integrated into their lifeworld, allowing them to tell their own story from the perspective of lifeworld brokenness.
Increased expression of extracellular matrix metalloproteinase inducer (EMMPRIN) and MMP10, MMP23 in inflammatory bowel disease: Cross‐sectional study
Authors: Fonseca‐Camarillo Gabriela , Furuzawa‐Carballeda Janette , Martínez‐Benitez Braulio , Barreto‐Zuñiga Rafael , Yamamoto‐Furusho Jesús K.
Published: August 2020

It has been reported that EMMPRIN is involved in the regulation of immune response and the induction of MMPs production by fibroblasts. The aim of this study was to describe the intestinal gene expression and protein production of EMMPRIN, MMP23 and MMP10 in patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn’s disease (CD) and compared them with a control group. Gene expression of EMMPRIN, MMP10 and MMP23B was measured by RT‐PCR. In order to determine EMMPRIN and MMP protein expression, colonic tissues were immunostained. The results of the study showed EMMPRIN gene expression was upregulated in rectal mucosa from active (a)UC versus aCD patients (P = .045), remission (r)CD group (P = .0009) and controls (P < .0001). We detected differences between rUC and aCD (P = .004), rCD (P < .0001) or control group (P < .0001). EMMPRIN showed a higher expression in mucosa (intraepithelial lymphocytes), submucosa and adventitia (endothelial cells) from aCD patients. MMP23 levels were increased in aUC and aCD compared to rUC and rCD and the control group (P = .0001). EMMPRIN+/MMP23+─expressing cells were localized mainly in mucosa, muscular and adventitia from active UC patients. MMP10 gene expression was increased in aUC versus CD patients and the control group (P = .0001). MMP10 gene expression is associated with inflammation in UC patients (P = .0001, r2 = .585). EMMPRIN+/MMP10+─producing cells were found mainly in all intestinal layers and perivascular inflammatory infiltrates from aUC patients. In conclusion, EMMPRIN, MMP23 and MMP10 were upregulated in patients with active UC versus remission UC , CD and control groups suggesting that, they are involved in the inflammatory process.
Integrating high‐intensity interval training into the workplace: The Work‐HIIT pilot RCT
Authors: Eather Narelle , Babic Mark , Riley Nicholas , Harris Nigel , Jung Mary , Jeffs Mikeelie , Barclay Briana , Lubans David R.
Published: August 2020

The purpose of this study was to assess the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of a high‐intensity interval training (HIIT) intervention integrated into the workplace on physical and mental health outcomes in a sample of adults. The Work‐HIIT intervention was evaluated at the University of Newcastle (March‐July 2019). University employees (18+ years) who self‐identified as predominantly sedentary at work (n = 47, 43.0 ± 10.7 years; 41 female) were recruited, screened, and randomized after baseline assessments into Work‐HIIT (n = 24) or wait‐list control (n = 23) conditions. Participants were asked to attend 2‐3 researcher‐facilitated HIIT sessions/week (weeks 1‐8). Sessions included a 2‐minute gross‐motor warm‐up, followed by various combinations of aerobic and muscular fitness exercises lasting 8 minutes (using 30:30 second work: rest intervals). Program feasibility was assessed using measures of satisfaction, compliance, adherence, fidelity, and retention. Physiological and psychological outcomes were measured at baseline and 9 weeks. Feasibility data were investigated using descriptive statistics and efficacy outcomes determined using linear mixed models and Cohen's d effect sizes. Participant ratings showed high levels of satisfaction (4.6/5); 71% of participants attended ≥2 sessions/wk and averaged 85.9% HRmax across all sessions (including rest and work intervals). Small‐to‐medium positive effects resulted for cardiorespiratory fitness [+2.9 laps, 95% CI (−4.19‐10.14); d = 0.34] and work productivity [+0.26, d = 0.47]. Large positive effects resulted for muscular fitness [push‐ups +3.5, d = 0.95; standing jump +10.1 cm, d = 1.12]; HIIT self‐efficacy [+16.53, d = 1.57]; sleep [weekday +0.76 hours, d = 1.05]; and autonomous motivation [+0.23, d = 0.76]. This study supports the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of facilitator‐led Work‐HIIT as a time‐efficient, enjoyable, and convenient workplace exercise option for adults.
Teaching students to estimate complex probabilities of board game events through simulation
Authors: Lyford Alex , Czekanski Michael
Published: August 2020

Students are typically introduced to probability through calculating simple events like flipping a coin. While these calculations can be done by hand, more complex probabilistic events, both in class and in the real world, require the use of computers. In this paper, we introduce a new tool—an R shiny web app and associated CRAN package based on the board game “CamelUp”—to help students explore these probability calculations through simulation in a fun context. Through this app and in conjunction with the board game Camel Up, we present some sample activities for helping students better understand and make in‐game probabilistic decisions.
Donor‐dependent aging of young and old red blood cell subpopulations: Metabolic and functional heterogeneity
Authors: Mykhailova Olga , Olafson Carly , Turner Tracey R. , DʼAlessandro Angelo , Acker Jason P.
Published: August 2020

Background

Characteristics of red blood cells (RBCs) are influenced by donor variability. This study assessed quality and metabolomic variables of RBC subpopulations of varied biologic age in red blood cell concentrates (RCCs) from male and female donors to evaluate their contribution to the storage lesion.

Study Design and Methods

Red blood cell concentrates from healthy male (n = 6) and female (n = 4) donors were Percoll separated into less dense (“young”, Y‐RCCs) and dense (“old”, O‐RCCs) subpopulations, which were assessed weekly for 28 days for changes in hemolysis, mean cell volume (MCV), hemoglobin concentration (MCHC), hemoglobin autofluorescence (HGB), morphology index (MI), oxygen affinity (p50), rigidity, intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS), calcium ([Ca2+]), and mass spectrometry–based metabolomics.

Results

Young RCCs having disc‐to‐discoid morphology showed higher MCV and MI, but lower MCHC, HGB, and rigidity than O‐RCCs, having discoid‐to‐spheroid shape. By Day 14, Y‐RCCs retained lower hemolysis and rigidity and higher p50 compared to O‐RCCs. Donor sex analyses indicated that females had higher MCV, HGB, ROS, and [Ca2+] and lower hemolysis than male RBCs, in addition to having a decreased rate of change in hemolysis by Day 28. Metabolic profiling indicated a significant sex‐related signature across all groups with increased markers of high membrane lipid remodeling and antioxidant capacity in Y‐RCCs, whereas O‐RCCs had increased markers of oxidative stress and decreased coping capability.

Conclusion

The structural, functional, and metabolic dissimilarities of Y‐RCCs and O‐RCCs from female and male donors demonstrate RCC heterogeneity, where RBCs from females contribute less to the storage lesion and age slower than males.
Annexin A1‐derived peptide Ac2‐26 facilitates wound healing in diabetic mice
Authors: Huang Jun‐Jie , Xia Chong‐Jian , Wei Ying , Yao Yi , Dong Miao‐Wu , Lin Ke‐Zhi , Yu Lin‐Sheng , Gao Yuan , Fan Yan‐Yan
Published: August 2020

Impaired wound healing is a common complication of diabetes. In diabetic wounds, macrophages present dysfunctional efferocytosis and abnormal phenotypes, which could result in excessive neutrophil accumulation and prolonged inflammation, thereby eventually hindering wound repair. ANXA1 N‐terminal peptide Ac2‐26 exhibits a high potential in mitigating inflammation and improving repair; however, its efficacy in diabetic wound repair remains unclear. In this study, a cutaneous excisional wound model was built in genetically diabetic mice. Ac2‐26 or a vehicle solution was employed locally in wound sites. Subsequently, wound zones were measured and sampled at different time intervals post‐wounding. Using hematoxylin‐eosin and Masson's trichrome staining, we observed the histopathological variations and collagen deposition in wound samples. Based on immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence, the numbers of neutrophils, macrophages, and CD206‐positive macrophages in the wound samples were determined. Cytokine expression in wound samples was studied by immunoblot assay. Results showed that Ac2‐26 treatment could facilitate diabetic wound closure, down‐regulate the number of neutrophils, and improve angiogenesis and collagen deposition. In addition, Ac2‐26 application expedited macrophage recruitment and up‐regulated the percentage of macrophages expressing CD206, which is a marker for M2 macrophages. Moreover, Ac2‐26 inhibited the expressions of TNF‐α and IL‐6 and up‐regulated the expressions of IL‐10, TGF‐β, and VEGFA during diabetic wound healing. Hence, based on the aforementioned findings, Ac2‐26 application in diabetic wounds could exert anti‐inflammatory and pro‐repair effects by reducing neutrophil accumulation and facilitating M2 macrophage development.
MAKING SPACE FOR THE METHODOLOGICAL MOSAIC: THE FUTURE OF THE FIELD OF SCIENCE‐AND‐RELIGION
Authors: Wright Jaime
Published: August 2020

This article is a response to Josh Reeves's recent book Against Methodology in Science and Religion: Recent Debates on Rationality and Theology that welcomes Reeves's proposal for an anti‐essentialist future for the field of science‐and‐religion, particularly because it has the potential to move the field beyond current, well‐worn methods: the dominance of Christian theology and doctrine, the importance of credibility strategies, and the dependence upon philosophical discourses. Reeves’ proposal has the potential to open the science‐and‐religion field to other topics, problems, and methods, such as studying lived science‐and‐religion. One way of doing this is to study popular culture and its artifacts such as literature, which portrays a co‐mingling of religion and science at the level of day‐to‐day experiences and practices of characters. For at the level of lived experience, religion and science are not well‐defined disciplines neatly compartmentalized into separate academic departments.
METHODOLOGY IN SCIENCE AND RELIGION: A REPLY TO CRITICS
Authors: Reeves Josh
Published: August 2020

Debates about methodology have been central to the emergence of the “field of science of religion.” Two questions that have motivated scholars in that field over the past half century: “is it theoretically justifiable to bring scientific and religious beliefs into dialogue?” and “can theology be rational in the same way as science?” This article responds to commentary on Against Methodology: Recent Debates on Rationality and Theology, a book which critically examines three major methodologists of recent years: Nancey Murphy, Alister McGrath, and J. Wentzel van Huyssteen. Themes raised in the commentary include the status of realism and truth in science, the unity of science, the adequacy of the term “critical realism,” proper ways of seeking legitimacy for an academic discipline, and new directions for the field of science and religion.
An iterative three-dimensional parabolic equation solver for propagation above irregular boundaries
Authors: Khodr Codor , Azarpeyvand Mahdi , Green David N.
Published: August 2020

This paper describes the development of an iterative three-dimensional parabolic equation solver that takes into account the effects of irregular boundaries and refraction from a layered atmosphere. A terrain-following coordinate transformation, based on the well-known Beilis-Tappert mapping, is applied to the narrow-angle parabolic equation in an inhomogeneous media. The main advantage of this approach, which has been used in two dimensions in the past, is the simplification of the impedance boundary condition at the earth's surface. The transformed initial-boundary value problem is discretized using the Crank-Nicholson marching scheme in the propagating direction and second-order finite-differences in the transversal plane. The proposed method relies on an efficient iterative fixed-point solver, which involves the inversion of tridiagonal matrices only. The accuracy of the method is evaluated through a comparison with boundary element simulations in a homogeneous atmosphere above a Gaussian hill. Results show that transversal scattering occurs in the shadow zone of the obstacle where the two-dimensional parabolic equation underestimates the pressure amplitude. The model is particularly suited for the simulation of infrasound in a three-dimensional environment with realistic topographies.
Ingestible transiently anchoring electronics for microstimulation and conductive signaling
Authors: Abramson Alex , Dellal David , Kong Yong Lin , Zhou Jianlin , Gao Yuan , Collins Joy , Tamang Siddartha , Wainer Jacob , McManus Rebecca , Hayward Alison , Frederiksen Morten Revsgaard , Water Jorrit J. , Jensen Brian , Roxhed Niclas , Langer Robert , Traverso Giovanni
Published: August 2020

An ingestible device injects probes into stomach tissue for electrical stimulation and potential treatment of gastroparesis.
Disruption in
ACTL7A
causes acrosomal ultrastructural defects in human and mouse sperm as a novel male factor inducing early embryonic arrest
Authors: Xin Aijie , Qu Ronggui , Chen Guowu , Zhang Ling , Chen Junling , Tao Chengqiu , Fu Jing , Tang Jianan , Ru Yanfei , Chen Ying , Peng Xiandong , Shi Huijuan , Zhang Feng , Sun Xiaoxi
Published: August 2020

ACTL7A deficiency is a novel male factor inducing early embryonic arrest that can be overcome by artificial oocyte activation.
Immunotherapy via PD-L1–presenting biomaterials leads to long-term islet graft survival
Authors: Coronel María M. , Martin Karen E. , Hunckler Michael D. , Barber Graham , O’Neill Eric B. , Medina Juan D. , Opri Enrico , McClain Claire A. , Batra Lalit , Weaver Jessica D. , Lim Hong S. , Qiu Peng , Botchwey Edward A. , Yolcu Esma S. , Shirwan Haval , García Andrés J.
Published: August 2020

Local biomaterial-mediated delivery of PD-L1 induces alloislet graft survival and function in a murine model of type 1 diabetes.
Wnt signaling activates MFSD2A to suppress vascular endothelial transcytosis and maintain blood-retinal barrier
Authors: Wang Zhongxiao , Liu Chi-Hsiu , Huang Shuo , Fu Zhongjie , Tomita Yohei , Britton William R. , Cho Steve S. , Chen Chuck T. , Sun Ye , Ma Jian-xing , He Xi , Chen Jing
Published: August 2020

Wnt signaling pathway suppresses vascular endothelium transcytosis in the BRB through activating MFSD2A.
Wirelessly controlled, bioresorbable drug delivery device with active valves that exploit electrochemically triggered crevice corrosion
Authors: Koo Jahyun , Kim Sung Bong , Choi Yeon Sik , Xie Zhaoqian , Bandodkar Amay J. , Khalifeh Jawad , Yan Ying , Kim Hojun , Pezhouh Maryam Kherad , Doty Karen , Lee Geumbee , Chen Yu-Yu , Lee Seung Min , D’Andrea Dominic , Jung Kimin , Lee KunHyuck , Li Kan , Jo Seongbin , Wang Heling , Kim Jae-Hwan , Kim Jeonghyun , Choi Sung-Geun , Jang Woo Jin , Oh Yong Suk , Park Inkyu , Kwak Sung Soo , Park Ji-Hyeon , Hong Doosun , Feng Xue , Lee Chi-Hwan , Banks Anthony , Leal Cecilia , Lee Hyuck Mo , Huang Yonggang , Franz Colin K. , Ray Wilson Z. , MacEwan Matthew , Kang Seung-Kyun , Rogers John A.
Published: August 2020

Bioresorbable drug release platforms offer advanced treatment for hormone imbalances, malignant cancers, and diabetic conditions.
Glove-based sensors for multimodal monitoring of natural sweat
Authors: Bariya Mallika , Li Lu , Ghattamaneni Rahul , Ahn Christine Heera , Nyein Hnin Yin Yin , Tai Li-Chia , Javey Ali
Published: August 2020

Functionalized glove sensors allow natural sweat analysis without requiring exercise or iontophoretic stimulation.
Nanoparticle-enhanced chemo-immunotherapy to trigger robust antitumor immunity
Authors: Liang Jingjing , Wang Huifang , Ding Wenxiu , Huang Jianxiang , Zhou Xuefei , Wang Huiyang , Dong Xue , Li Guangyao , Chen Enguo , Zhou Fei , Fan Hongjie , Xia Jingya , Shen Bo , Cai Da , Lan Pengxun , Jiang Hanliang , Ling Jun , Cheng Zhen , Liu Xiangrui , Sun Jihong
Published: August 2020

Stimuli-responsive nano-immunochemotherapy modulates the tumor microenvironment to enhance antitumor immunity.
Suppression of Rice Planthopper Populations by the Entomopathogenic Fungus Metarhiziumanisopliaewithout Affecting the Rice Microbiota
Authors: Peng Yifan , Tang Jifeng , Hong Mingsheng , Xie Jiaqin
Published: August 2020

Entomopathogenic fungi may be used as crucial biocontrol agents for the control of insect pests, but few effective fungal strains have been reported for the control of the rice planthopper, a major pest of rice. More importantly, the impacts of fungal insecticide application on nontarget microorganisms have not been well evaluated, especially under field conditions. Therefore, in this study, we investigated the effects of the fungal strainM. anisopliaeCQMa421 on rice planthopper populations from 2017 to 2019 and evaluated its potential impacts on the microbiota of rice plants after application. The results suggested that this fungal agent has good potential for use in the control of rice planthoppers with no significant effects on rice microbial communities, representing an alternative strategy for the control of rice pests.
Fifteen-minute consultation: Apparent vaginal bleeding in the
pre-pubertal girl
Authors: Collins Julie-Ann , Maney Julie-Ann , Livingstone Alison
Published: August 2020

A parent or carer’s observation of blood in a child’s nappy or underwear
can be quite alarming for both parent and child and may indicate vaginal
bleeding. At first glance, it may be difficult to ascertain whether the
bleeding is from the skin, genital tract, urinary tract or anus. Confirmed
vaginal bleeding in a pre-pubertal girl is rare but always abnormal and
requires comprehensive assessment to determine the cause. Recognition of
normal female pre-pubertal anatomy is essential to detect any abnormalities.
Appropriate action should be taken according to findings on initial
inspection of the ano-genital area. The possibility of child sexual abuse
and the need for specialist paediatric sexual offences medicine examination
by an FME (Forensic Medical Examiner) or specialist paediatrician should
always be considered. This article offers a systematic approach to
assessment in pre-pubertal girls with apparent vaginal bleeding which will
benefit general paediatricians, emergency department practitioners and
GPs.
How to interpret a single cortisol measurement
Authors: Shaunak Meera , Blair Joanne C , Davies Justin Huw
Published: August 2020

Adrenal insufficiency can present with non-specific clinical features. Therefore, a single cortisol measurement is often included in the biochemical work-up of an unwell child. This article aims to review the diagnostic utility of a single cortisol measurement by outlining the physiological, clinical and technical factors affecting result interpretation. Clinical scenarios are used to illustrate how this test may be used in different commonly encountered situations in general paediatrics, with the aim of minimising the frequency of inconclusive results.
Adult-onset Still’s disease in a 73-year-old Maltese man
Authors: Borg Janice , Camilleri Mary Louise , Cassar Paul John
Published: August 2020

Adult-onset Still’s disease (AOSD) is a rare autoinflammatory condition diagnosed by Yamaguchi criteria. We report an atypical presentation of a 73-year-old man, who was admitted with fever, sore throat and pleurisy that were unresponsive to three courses of antibiotics. Fever persisted in a quotidian pattern and the typical salmon-coloured rash consistent with AOSD appeared at 4 weeks from symptoms onset. These features in addition to neutrophilia and hyperferritinaemia in the absence of concurrent infectious and neoplastic causes satisfied Yamaguchi criteria for a diagnosis of AOSD. Epstein-Barr antigen was initially detected at moderate titre levels, but was undetectable after 1 week. Complete resolution of symptoms was reported on initiation of steroid treatment. A relationship between disease onset and viral syndromes has been documented to occur and few similar cases preceded by Epstein-Barr virus detection have been reported.
Risk of 16 cancers across the full glycemic spectrum: a population-based cohort study using the UK Biobank
Authors: Rentsch Christopher T , Farmer Ruth E , Eastwood Sophie V , Mathur Rohini , Garfield Victoria , Farmaki Aliki-Eleni , Bhaskaran Krishnan , Chaturvedi Nish , Smeeth Liam
Published: August 2020

Introduction

Diabetes is observed to increase cancer risk, leading to hypothesized direct effects of either hyperglycemia or medication. We investigated associations between glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) across the whole glycemic spectrum and incidence of 16 cancers in a population sample with comprehensive adjustment for risk factors and medication.

Research design and methods

Linked data from the UK Biobank and UK cancer registry for all individuals with baseline HbA1c and no history of cancer at enrollment were used. Incident cancer was based on International Classification of Diseases – 10th Edition diagnostic codes. Age-standardized incidence rates were estimated by HbA1c category. Associations between HbA1c, modeled as a restricted cubic spline, and cancer risk were estimated using Cox proportional hazards models.

Results

Among 378 253 individuals with average follow-up of 7.1 years, 21 172 incident cancers occurred. While incidence for many of the 16 cancers was associated with hyperglycemia in crude analyses, these associations disappeared after multivariable adjustment, except for pancreatic cancer (HR 1.55, 95% CI 1.22 to 1.98 for 55 vs 35 mmol/mol), and a novel finding of an inverse association between HbA1c and premenopausal breast cancer (HR 1.27, 95% CI 1.00 to 1.60 for 25 vs 35 mmol/mol; HR 0.71, 95% CI 0.54 to 0.94 for 45 vs 35 mmol/mol), not observed for postmenopausal breast cancer. Adjustment for diabetes medications had no appreciable impact on HRs for cancer.

Conclusions

Apart from pancreatic cancer, we did not demonstrate any independent positive association between HbA1c and cancer risk. These findings suggest that the potential for a cancer-inducing, direct effect of hyperglycemia may be misplaced.
Level of confidence in and endorsement of the health system among internet users in 12 low-income and middle-income countries
Authors: Roder-DeWan Sanam , Gage Anna , Hirschhorn Lisa R , Twum-Danso Nana A Y , Liljestrand Jerker , Asante-Shongwe Kwanele , Yahya Talhiya , Kruk Margaret
Published: August 2020

Introduction

People’s confidence in and endorsement of the health system are key measures of system performance, yet are undermeasured in low-income and middle-income countries (LMICs). We explored the prevalence and predictors of these measures in 12 countries.

Methods

We conducted an internet survey in Argentina, China, Ghana, India, Indonesia, Kenya, Lebanon, Mexico, Morocco, Nigeria, Senegal and South Africa collecting demographics, ratings of quality, and confidence in and endorsement of the health system. We used multivariable logistic regression to assess the association between confidence/endorsement and self-reported quality of recent healthcare.

Results

Of 13 489 respondents, 62% reported a health visit in the past year. Applying population weights, 32% of these users were very confident that they could receive effective care if they were to ‘become very sick tomorrow’; 30% endorsed the health system, that is, agreed that it ‘works pretty well and only needs minor changes’. Reporting high quality in the last visit was associated with 4.48 and 2.69 greater odds of confidence (95% CI 3.64 to 5.52) and endorsement (95% CI 2.33 to 3.11). Having health insurance was positively associated with confidence and endorsement (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) 1.68, 95% CI 1.49 to 1.90 and AOR 1.34, 95% CI 1.22 to 1.48), while experiencing discrimination in healthcare was negatively associated (AOR 0.67, 95% CI 0.56 to 0.80 and AOR 0.63, 95% CI 0.53 to 0.76).

Conclusion

Confidence and endorsement of the health system were low across 12 LMICs. This may hinder efforts to gain support for universal health coverage. Positive patient experience was strongly associated with confidence in and endorsement of the health system.
The impact of a health facility construction campaign on health service utilisation and outcomes: analysis of spatially linked survey and facility location data in Ethiopia
Authors: Croke Kevin , Telaye Mengistu Andualem , O'Connell Stephen D. , Tafere Kibrom
Published: August 2020

Background

Access to health facilities in many low-income and middle-income countries remains low, with a strong association between individuals’ distance to facilities and health outcomes. Yet plausibly causal estimates of the effects of facility construction programmes are rare. Starting in 2004, more than 2800 government health facilities were built in Ethiopia. This study estimates the impact of this programme on maternal health service utilisation and birth outcomes.

Methods

We analyse the impact of Ethiopia’s health centre construction programme on health service utilisation and outcomes, using a difference-in-difference design. We match facility opening years to child birth years in four rounds of Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS) using georeferenced data. We also use event study models to test for pre-trends in the outcomes of interest.

Results

Opening of new health facilities within 5 km increases facility delivery by 7.2 percentage points (95% CI 5.2 to 9.1) and antenatal care by 0.38 visits (95% CI 0.24 to 0.52). It is not significantly associated with changes in caesarean section births or neonatal mortality. Opening of district hospitals increases facility delivery by 18.2 percentage points (95% CI 12.7 to 23.7), and caesarean section births by 6.8 percentage points (95% CI 2.5 to 11.2), but is not associated with reduction of neonatal mortality.

Conclusions

Ethiopia’s facility construction program improved access to antenatal and delivery care. However, there was no detectable association between facility construction and neonatal mortality. Increased access to care must be combined with health system quality improvements and broader social development initiatives to sustainably improve health outcomes.