bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Binding constraints to productive investment in Malawi: A modified HRV framework
Authors: Chirwa Themba G. , Odhiambo Nicholas M. 
Published: February 2021

AbstractThe paper applies a modified Hausmann, Rodrik, and Velasco (HRV) growth diagnostics framework to analyse Malawi's growth challenges. The study finds five critical binding constraints affecting productive investment and output growth in Malawi. These include land administration, taxation, customs and trade regulations, political governance, and cost‐of‐finance. Land constraints are evidenced by highly urban and rural population growth, an inverse co‐movement between the rural population and investment per capita, and low land administration indices. Tax constraints are evidenced by the negative growth of investment per capita. Customs and trade regulations constraints are evidenced by nontariff measures, such as high costs and the time it takes to export and import. Political governance constraints are evidenced by rising government debt and the low score on transparency, accountability, and corruption based on the World Bank's Public Transparency Scale. Lastly, high cost‐of‐finance constraints are evidenced by monetary policy challenges, such as high real interest rates, inflation rate, uncompetitive exchange rate, and foreign aid ineffectiveness. Therefore, we recommend that the formulation of crucial policy strategies to alleviate these five significant binding constraints be encouraged. The government should base such an approach to sound growth therapeutics that fully account for each challenge's root causes.
Characteristics of Halloween genes and RNA interference‐mediated functional analysis of LmCYP307a2 in Locusta migratoria
Authors: Zhang Xue‐Yao , He Qi‐Hui , Zhang Ting‐Ting , Wu Hai‐Hua , Zhang Jian‐Zhen , Ma En‐Bo 
Published: February 2021

AbstractHalloween genes are involved in the biosynthesis of the molting hormone, which plays a key role in insect ecdysis, development, metamorphosis, and reproduction. Our previous work identified five Halloween genes from Locusta migratoria, but their functions are currently unknown. In this study, the sequences of these five Halloween genes were analyzed and characterized. LmCYP307a2, LmCYP306a1, LmCYP302a1, and LmCYP315a1 were primarily expressed in the prothoracic glands, while LmCYP314a1 was universally expressed in peripheral tissues, especially in the ovaries and Malpighian tubules. All five Halloween genes were mainly expressed from the 5th to the 7th d in 5th‐instar nymphs. RNA interference (RNAi) silencing of LmCYP307a2 resulted in severe molting delays and molting failure, which could be rescued by supplementary 20‐hydroxyecdysone. A hematoxylin and eosin staining analysis suggested that the RNAi of LmCYP307a2 inhibited the ecdysis process by inhibiting the apolysis and degradation of the old cuticle, and by promoting the synthesis of a new cuticle. Quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction results showed that the expressions of LmE74, LmCht5, and LmCht10 were dramatically down‐regulated, while that of LmChsI was substantially up‐regulated, after knockdown of LmCYP307a2. The results suggest that LmCYP307a2 is related to the molt process via regulation of chitin synthesis and degradation.
Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt in patients treated with a balloon tamponade for variceal hemorrhage without response to high doses of vasoactive drugs: A real‐world multicenter retrospective study
Authors: Ni Jing Bin , Xiang Xiao Xing , Wu Wei , Chen Shi Yao , Zhang Feng , Zhang Ming , Peng Chun Yan , Xiao Jiang Qiang , Zhuge Yu Zheng , Zhang Chun Qing 
Published: February 2021

ObjectiveTo evaluate the efficacy of transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) and non‐TIPS therapy (endoscopy and/or nonselective beta‐blockers [NSBB]) in patients with cirrhosis and active variceal hemorrhage who did not respond to high‐dose vasoactive drugs and required balloon tamponade for hemostasis.MethodsMedical records of cirrhotic patients who did not respond to high‐dose vasoactive drugs and required balloon tamponade for hemostasis at five university hospitals in China between January 2011 and December 2018 were reviewed. Treatment outcomes were compared between the TIPS and the non‐TIPS groups.ResultsTreatment failure of variceal hemorrhage within 5 days was reported in six patients of the non‐TIPS group (N = 70) and none of the TIPS group (N = 66) (P = .028). The TIPS group had a higher 1‐year variceal rebleeding‐free rate compared with the non‐TIPS group (95.5% vs 60.0%, P < .001). One patient treated with TIPS and nine with non‐TIPS therapy experienced rebleeding within 5 days and 6 weeks after the intervention (P = .009). The cumulative 1‐year survival rate was higher in the TIPS group than in the non‐TIPS group (93.9% vs 78.6%, P = .01). The TIPS group had a higher incidence of hepatic encephalopathy within one year compared with the non‐TIPS group (18.2% vs 4.3%, P = .026).ConclusionFor patients with cirrhosis and active variceal bleeding who do not respond to high‐dose vasoactive agents and require a balloon tamponade for hemostasis, TIPS may be an appropriate treatment choice.
Nitrogen and Phosphorus Sources and Delivery from the Mississippi/Atchafalaya River Basin: An Update Using 2012 SPARROW Models
Authors: Robertson Dale M. , Saad David A. 
Published: February 2021

AbstractNitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) inputs throughout the Mississippi/Atchafalaya River Basin (MARB) have been linked to the Gulf of Mexico hypoxia and water‐quality problems throughout the MARB. To describe N and P loading throughout the MARB, SPAtially Referenced Regression On Watershed attributes (SPARROW) models were previously developed based on nutrient inputs and management similar to 1992 and 2002. In this study, refined SPARROW models were developed with higher resolution basin delineation, updated (2012) source inputs, improved calibration (load) targets, and additional statistical techniques than used in the previous SPARROW models. Based on the refined models, consistent with past models, N and P loads/yields were the highest from the central part of the MARB (Corn Belt) and along the Mississippi River. Agricultural activities remained the most important N and P source, but more so for N because its input, which could now be distinguished from atmospheric deposition, could be estimated. Natural loss of P from geologic material throughout the MARB was an important source, contributing about 23% of the total P from the MARB, and resulted in specific areas, such as Kentucky and Tennessee, being larger sources of P than previously estimated. This information can help managers decide where efforts will have the largest effects (highest ranked areas) on reducing nutrient loading to the Gulf hypoxia and what are the most important sources of N and P in these areas.
Oesophageal cancer treatment patterns, timeliness of care and outcomes in the Loddon Mallee region of Victoria: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Conway Paul , Leach Michael , Tejani Neetu , Robinson Amanda , Shethia Yachna , Solo Ilana 
Published: February 2021

AbstractIntroductionFew studies have investigated oesophageal cancer care in regional areas. This study aimed to describe treatment patterns for oesophageal cancer in a regional area, and to identify factors associated with radiotherapy utilisation, timeliness of care, and death.MethodsIn a retrospective cohort study, medical records were reviewed to source data on all patients diagnosed with and/or treated for oesophageal cancer at two regional Victorian hospitals over July 2015–June 2018. Cox proportional hazards regression was employed to identify factors associated with time from diagnosis to death while binary logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with radiotherapy utilisation and treatment within 28 days of diagnosis – a time frame derived from the relevant optimal care pathway.ResultsOf 95 patients, 72% had radiotherapy, 32% received any treatment within 28 days, and 78% died over a median time of nine months. Odds of not receiving radiotherapy were decreased (odds ratio [OR] = 0.26, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.08–0.87) for histology other than adenocarcinoma. Odds of timely care were increased for any palliative radiotherapy (OR = 3.47, 95% CI = 1.15–10.5) and decreased for older age (OR = 0.95, 95% CI = 0.91.0.999). Hazard of death was elevated for stage IV disease (hazard ratio [HR] = 2.73, 95% CI = 1.64–4.54) and reduced for radical intent (HR = 0.27, 95% CI = 0.15–0.48).ConclusionNearly three‐quarters of regional oesophageal cancer patients had radiotherapy while approximately one‐third received any treatment within the recommended 28 days. Any palliative radiotherapy and younger age were associated with timely treatment. Future studies could further investigate factors related to timely oesophageal cancer care.
Predictors of gastrointestinal bleeding in adult ICU patients in the SUP‐ICU trial
Authors: Granholm Anders , Krag Mette , Marker Søren , Alhazzani Waleed , Perner Anders , Møller Morten Hylander 
Published: February 2021

AbstractBackgroundIn previous studies of predictors of gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding in the intensive care unit (ICU), most patients received pharmacological stress ulcer prophylaxis (SUP). We aimed to assess associations between potential predictors of clinically important GI bleeding (CIB) and overt GI bleeding in adult ICU patients, while considering the effect and potential interaction with use of SUP.MethodsWe included 3291 acutely admitted adult ICU patients with risk factors for GI bleeding randomized to SUP (pantoprazole) or placebo in the SUP‐ICU trial. We used logistic regression models adjusted for allocation to SUP to estimate associations between 23 potential predictors and CIB (primary outcome) and overt GI bleeding (secondary outcome). Furthermore, we assessed associations between potential predictors and both outcomes in each allocation group and assessed potential interaction with allocation to SUP.ResultsIncreasing SAPS II and SOFA scores, use of circulatory support and renal replacement therapy were associated with increased risk of CIB and overt GI bleeding; chronic lung disease was associated with increased risk of overt GI bleeding. Results for the remaining potential predictors were compatible with both no difference or increased and decreased risks. We found no strong evidence for any interaction between treatment allocation and any potential predictors.ConclusionIn adult ICU patients at risk of GI bleeding, severity of illness, use of circulatory support and renal replacement therapy were associated with higher odds of CIB, with no strong evidence of interaction with SUP.
Severely low testosterone in males with COVID‐19: A case‐control study
Authors: Salonia Andrea , Pontillo Marina , Capogrosso Paolo , Gregori Silvia , Tassara Michela , Boeri Luca , Carenzi Cristina , Abbate Costantino , Cignoli Daniele , Ferrara Anna Maria , Cazzaniga Walter , Rowe Isaline , Ramirez Giuseppe A. , Tresoldi Cristina , Mushtaq Junaid , Locatelli Massimo , Santoleri Luca , Castagna Antonella , Zangrillo Alberto , De Cobelli Francesco , Tresoldi Moreno , Landoni Giovanni , Rovere‐Querini Patrizia , Ciceri Fabio , Montorsi Francesco 
Published: February 2021

AbstractBackgroundCirculating androgens could have a relevant pathobiological role in clinical outcomes in men with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) infection (COVID‐19).ObjectivesWe aimed to assess: (a) circulating sex steroids levels in a cohort of 286 symptomatic men with laboratory‐confirmed COVID‐19 at hospital admission compared to a cohort of 281 healthy men; and (b) the association between serum testosterone levels (tT), COVID‐19, and clinical outcomes.Materials and MethodsDemographic, clinical, and hormonal values were collected for all patients. Hypogonadism was defined as tT ≤9.2 nmol/l. The Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) was used to score health‐significant comorbidities. Severe clinical outcomes were defined as patients either transferred to intensive care unit (ICU) or death. Descriptive statistics and multivariable linear and logistic regression models tested the association between clinical and laboratory variables and tT levels. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression models tested the association between tT and severe clinical outcomes.ResultsOverall, a significantly lower levels of LH and tT were found in patients with COVID‐19 compared to healthy controls (all p < 0.0001); conversely, healthy controls depicted lower values of circulating E2 (p < 0.001). Testosterone levels suggestive for hypogonadism were observed in 257 (89.8%) patients at hospital admission. In as many as 243 (85%) cases, hypogonadism was secondary. SARS‐CoV‐2 infection status was independently associated with lower tT levels (p < 0.0001) and greater risk of hypogonadism (p < 0.0001), after accounting for age, BMI, CCI, and IL‐6 values. Lower tT levels were associated with higher risk of ICU admission and death outcomes (all p ≤ 0.05), after accounting for clinical and laboratory parameters.ConclusionsWe unveil an independent association between SARS‐CoV‐2 infection status and secondary hypogonadism already at hospital admission, with lower testosterone levels predicting the most severe clinical outcomes.
Impact of lobular carcinoma in situ on local recurrence in breast cancer treated with breast conservation therapy: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Harris Christopher G. , Eslick Guy D. 
Published: February 2021

AbstractBackgroundLobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS) is a known risk factor for breast cancer of unclear significance when detected in association with invasive carcinoma. This meta‐analysis aims to determine the impact of LCIS on local recurrence risk for individuals with breast cancer treated with breast conservation therapy to help guide appropriate management strategies.MethodsWe identified relevant studies from five electronic databases. Studies were deemed suitable for inclusion where they compared patients with invasive breast cancer and concurrent LCIS to those with breast cancer alone, all patients underwent breast conservation therapy (lumpectomy with adjuvant radiation therapy) and local recurrence was evaluated. Recurrence data were pooled by use of a random‐effects model.ResultsFrom 1488 citations screened by our search, nine studies were deemed suitable for inclusion. These studies comprised 990 cases and 12 870 controls. Median follow‐up time was 104 months. There was a significantly increased risk of overall local recurrence of breast cancer for individuals with LCIS in association with breast cancer following breast conservation therapy (pooled odds ratio (pOR) 1.73; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.10–2.71; P = 0.018). The risk of local recurrence was not significantly increased at 5 years (pOR 1.00; 95% CI 0.49–2.04; P = 0.995) and 10 years (pOR 1.52; 95% CI 0.72–3.23; P = 0.275).ConclusionIndividuals with LCIS in association with invasive breast cancer have an increased risk of local recurrence following breast conservation therapy. This supports consideration of increased medical surveillance and exploration of further risk reduction strategies for such patients.
White Jesus and Antisemitism: Toward an Antiracist and Decolonial Christology
Authors: Hedges Paul 
Published: February 2021

AbstractThis article argues that traditional Christology is intimately bound up with a triumphalist agenda that denies Jesus’ Jewishness and is structurally antisemitic. Taking an antiracist stance, the article argues that systemic rethinking of Christianity’s theological resources is needed, which must be anti‐antisemitic and antiracist. This involves reconfiguring how we take on board Jesus’ Jewishness in a post‐Holocaust context and recognizing Jesus as a Jewish prophet. From this, it is tentatively suggested that rethinking the role of the Messiah involves understanding a Levinasian Messiah who does not come, but rather calls upon us to act in a Messianic role before the Other as an ethical imperative.
The World Council of Churches and the Theology of Christian‐Jewish Relations
Authors: Marshall David 
Published: February 2021

AbstractThis essay explores the approach of the World Council of Churches (WCC) to the theological questions involved in Jewish‐Christian relations, while also noting connections between these questions and political factors. The first part focuses on WCC assemblies. At Amsterdam in 1948, a brief document emphasized four key issues: the relationship of the Jewish people to God and to the Church; antisemitism; mission; and the State of Israel. At subsequent assemblies, especially after 1967, with attention focusing on the Israel‐Palestine conflict and the plight of the Palestinians, theological discussion of these questions was avoided. The second part of the essay turns to the discussion of these four questions at other levels of the WCC, also considering the wider context of this discussion in the varied approaches developed among WCC member churches. A major theme throughout the essay is that because of the spectrum of ecclesiastical and regional affiliations across member churches, theological discussion of these questions has been controversial within the WCC. If its output in this field of theological work has therefore understandably been limited in comparison with that of some member churches and ecumenical partners, the WCC does nevertheless have a unique capacity to play a convening role for discussion of these difficult questions between Christians of different traditions and from very different political contexts.
Discovering Jesus Anew
Authors: Gnanadason Aruna 
Published: February 2021

AbstractIn light of the political and ritual abuse of religion in India today, this article underlines the importance of Christian women’s engagement with women of all faiths to resist discrimination and violence. The Indian Christian Women’s Movement draws on Jesus’ liberative practice and teaching as women find creative and subversive ways to strengthen Christian women’s solidarity with women of other faiths. While all faith traditions carry embedded patriarchal biases that have been used to legitimize the second‐class status of women, they also have streams of liberation motifs. The article employs a feminist epistemology to reconstruct dominant theological motifs and assumptions based on an ethic of care, compassion, and mutuality in relationships.
Phosphatic scales in vase‐shaped microfossil assemblages from Death Valley, Grand Canyon, Tasmania, and Svalbard
Authors: Riedman Leigh Anne , Porter Susannah M. , Czaja Andrew D. 
Published: February 2021

AbstractAlthough biomineralized skeletal elements dominate the Phanerozoic fossil record, they did not become common until ~550–520 Ma when independent acquisitions of biomineralization appeared in multiple lineages of animals and a few protists (single‐celled eukaryotes). Evidence of biomineralization preceding the late Ediacaran is spotty aside from the apatitic scale microfossils of the ~811 Ma Fifteenmile Group, northwestern Canada. Here, we describe scale‐shaped microfossils from four vase‐shaped microfossil (VSM)‐bearing units of later Tonian age: the Togari Group of Tasmania, Chuar and Pahrump groups of southwestern United States, and the Roaldtoppen Group of Svalbard. These scale‐shaped microfossils consist of thin, ~13 micron‐long plates typically surrounded by a 1–3 micron‐thick colorless envelope; they are found singly and in heterotypic and monotypic clusters of a few to >20 specimens. Raman spectroscopy and confocal laser scanning microscopy indicate these microfossils are composed of apatite and kerogen, just as is seen in the Fifteenmile Group scale microfossils. Despite compositional similarity, however, these scales are probably not homologous, representing instead, an independent acquisition of apatite mineralization. We propose that these apatite‐kerogen scale‐shaped microfossils are skeletal elements of a protistan cell. In particular, their consistent co‐occurrence with VSMs, and similarities with scales of arcellinid testate amoebae, a group to which the VSMs are thought to belong, suggest the possibility that these microfossils may be test‐forming scales of ancient arcellinid testate amoebae. The apparent apatite biomineralization in both these microfossils and the Fifteenmile scales is unexpected given its exceedingly rare use in skeletons of modern protists. This modern absence is attributed to the extravagance of using a limiting nutrient in a structural element, but multiple occurrences of apatite biomineralization in the Tonian suggest that phosphorus was not a limiting nutrient for these organisms, a suggestion consistent with the idea that dissolved seawater phosphate concentrations may have been higher at this time.
The expectations and realities of nutrigenomic testing in australia: A qualitative study
Authors: Tutty Erin , Hickerton Chriselle , Terrill Bronwyn , McClaren Belinda , Tytherleigh Rigan , Stackpoole Elaine , Savard Jaqueline , Newson Ainsley , Middleton Anna , Nisselle Amy , Cusack Marie , Adamski Melissa , Gaff Clara , Metcalfe Sylvia 
Published: February 2021

AbstractBackgroundConsumer genomic testing for nutrition and wellness, (nutritional genomics), is becoming increasingly popular. Concurrently, health‐care practitioners (HPs) working in private practice (including doctors interested in integrative medicine, private genetic counsellors, pharmacists, dieticians, naturopaths and nutritionists) are involved as test facilitators or interpreters.ObjectiveTo explore Australian consumers’ and HPs’ experiences with nutrigenomic testing.MethodSemi‐structured in‐depth interviews were conducted using predominantly purposive sampling. The two data sets were analysed individually, then combined, using a constant comparative, thematic approach.ResultsOverall, 45 interviews were conducted with consumers (n = 18) and HPs (n = 27). Many of the consumer interviewees experienced chronic ill‐health. Nutrigenomic testing was perceived as empowering and a source of hope for answers. While most made changes to their diet/supplements post‐test, self‐reported health improvements were small. A positive relationship with their HP appeared to minimize disappointment. HPs’ adoption and views of nutrigenomic testing varied. Those enthusiastic about testing saw the possibilities it could offer. However, many felt nutrigenomic testing was not the only ‘tool’ to utilize when offering health care.DiscussionThis research highlights the important role HPs play in consumers’ experiences of nutrigenomics. The varied practice suggests relevant HPs require upskilling in this area to at least support their patients/clients, even if nutrigenomic testing is not part of their practice.Patient or public contributionAdvisory group included patient/public group representatives who informed study design; focus group participants gave feedback on the survey from which consumer interviewees were sourced. This informed the HP data set design. Interviewees from HP data set assisted with snowball sampling.