University Of Aberdeen Research Articles

System-Based Solutions to Minimizing Nephrotoxin-Induced Acute Kidney Injury.

1Departments of Medicine and Community Health Sciences, O'Brien Institute for Public Health, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada 2Aberdeen Centre for Health Data Science, School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, NHS Grampian, Aberdeen, Scotland Correspondence: Dr. Matthew T. James, Departments of Medicine and Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, 3280 Hospital Dr., NW Calgary, Alberta T2N 4Z6, Canada. Email: [email protected] See related article, “Nephrotoxin Exposure and Acute Kidney Injury in Adults,” on pages 163–172.

Ezekiel’s Message of Hope and Restoration: Redaction-Critical Study of Ezekiel 1–7 by Hei Yin Yip

Reviewed by: Ezekiel’s Message of Hope and Restoration: Redaction-Critical Study of Ezekiel 1–7 by Hei Yin Yip Vien V. Nguyen hei yin yip, Ezekiel’s Message of Hope and Restoration: Redaction-Critical Study of Ezekiel 1–7 (BZAW 532; Berlin: de Gruyter, 2021). Pp. xiv + 283. $99. This book is a revision of Hei Yin Yip’s doctoral dissertation, written under the supervision of Lena-Sofia Tiemeyer at the University of Aberdeen. In this study, Y. argues that the motif of hope and restoration is not limited to the literary unit of Ezekiel 33–48 but also resides in the redactional layers of Ezekiel 1–24, where the original message is predominantly of judgment and destruction (p. 5). Employing textual and redactional criticism and inner-biblical interpretation, Y. traces the motif of hope and restoration that is embedded within the redactional layers of Ezekiel 1–7 and hypothesizes its intended purpose. The study unfolds in two parts and follows the two investigative steps—the diachronic analysis and the exegetical analysis of the text. The first part (chaps. 2–6) deals with Ezekiel’s prophetic vocation and priestly role. The second part (chaps. 7–8) analyzes the reinstatement of the Zadokite priesthood. The two parts are bookended by an introduction and a conclusion. The introduction (chap. 1) outlines the aim of the study and its scope, the methods employed, the criteria for identifying texts, and the purpose of textual reuse. The conclusion (chap. 9) summarizes the study and offers suggestions for further studies. In chaps. 2 and 3, Y. examines Ezekiel’s call narrative (1:1–3:15) and commission (3:16b–27). In chap. 2, Y. argues that the original material (2:1–3:11) legitimizes Ezekiel’s call and role as Yhwh’s authentic prophet, as depicted in the account of the scroll eating. [End Page 150] The prophet is to convey Yhwh’s message obediently and be Yhwh’s living oracle. Y. identifies the Vision of the Glory (1:4–28) as an extension of the original narrative that reinforces Yhwh’s greatness and power, that is, Yhwh’s continued presence among the people in exile and supremacy over nations and deities. Chapter 3 continues Ezekiel’s call narrative, which has two parts. The first part is Ezekiel’s commission as a watchman to warn the rebellious people (3:16b–21). The warning offers the last chance to those who listen and repent. It also mitigates the severity of the divine judgment. In the second part, Ezekiel’s binding and muteness (3:22–27) symbolize the captivity of the exiles and the reinstatement of Ezekiel’s priestly role. Although restored, his priestly role as intercessor is disabled by muteness but is restored when Yhwh opens Ezekiel’s mouth. The subject of chaps. 4 and 5 is Ezekiel’s prophetic sign-acts as descriptions of Yhwh’s judgment against Jerusalem and the city’s inevitable fall. Chapter 4 centers on Ezekiel’s priestly role and his bearing of the people’s iniquity (4:4–8), suffering with and for the Israelites. As a priest, Ezekiel protests the instruction to cook food using human waste, a violation of purity regulations applied to priests (4:12–15). God responds by allowing Ezekiel to use cow dung as a substitute, which is perceived as an exemption from the purity law and the restoration of Ezekiel’s priestly purity (p. 128). In chap. 5, the redactional material (5:3–4) contrasts with the totality of God’s judgment in the original text (5:1–2). By its preservation of remnants, the redactional material conveys hope and restoration. This preservation is depicted in the symbol of saving one-third of the portion of the prophet’s shaved hair in his garment. In chap. 6, Y. addresses the oracle of judgment against the land of Israel in Ezekiel 7, depicting the announcement of the Day of Yhwh and the coming of Yhwh’s agent, referred to as a hostile king. His arrival leads to the desecration of the temple and the plundering of the Israelites’ property. But within the redactional expansions (7:5b–7a, 12b–14, 21–24), the embedded elements of...

PRESIDENTIAL SYMPOSIUM: NUTRITION, METABOLISM, AND AGING

Abstract Aging is associated with increased risk for a host of non-communicable diseases and disorders including diabetes, cardiovascular disease, cancer, and neurodegeneration. Although the underlying basis for this shared risk as a function of aging is not known, numerous diseases of aging have an established metabolic component. Data from preclinical and basic research indicate that the pace of aging is malleable, and studies in short-lived species have shown the ability of genetic and nutritional interventions to not only positively impact longevity but also to prolong health into older age. This symposium, “Nutrition, Metabolism, & Aging”, features internationally renowned aging research scientists whose work focuses on how nutrition and metabolism intersect with aging biology. We will hear from John Speakman from the University of Aberdeen who will present his research on “Metabolism and Extended Longevity”; Leanne Redman from the Pennington Biomedical Research Center whose work in humans will be described in her talk on “Dietary Interventions for Healthy Aging”; Holly Brown-Borg from University of North Dakota will discuss endocrine modulation of aging in her talk “Somatotropic Signaling in Health and Longevity”; and Valter Longo from the University of Southern California who will discuss the latest findings from his research in mice and humans in his talk “Periodic Fasting in Aging and Disease". Attendees will learn about nutrition and metabolism and how these cues are interwoven to regulate aging, impact health, and enhance longevity.

Study within a review (SWAR).

Study within a review (SWAR).

B v University of Aberdeen [2020] CSIH 62: Where there's a will, there's a way.

The area of posthumous reproduction—the process by which assisted reproductive technologies are used to achieve conception, pregnancy, and childbirth after the death of one or both biological parents—raises complex questions for the law. B v University of Aberdeen1 (Aberdeen) adds to an increasing line of cases that grapple with the delicate legal issues involving posthumous reproduction.2 The storage and use of gametes and embryos, including their storage and use posthumously, are regulated by a detailed statutory framework contained principally in the Human Fertilisation and Embryology (HFE) Acts 1990 and 2008. The HFE Act 1990 places significant emphasis on consent,3 which is regarded as one of the twin pillars supporting Parliamentary regulation of this field.4 The specific requirements needed for an effective consent are contained in Schedule (Sch) 3 of the HFE Act 1990, which stipulates, amongst other things, that consent must be in writing.5

Weak deflection angle and shadow cast by the charged-Kiselev black hole with cloud of strings in plasma* *Partly supported by the Uzbekistan Ministry for Innovative Development (FZ-20200929344 and F-FA-2021-510). I.H. is grateful to the Institute of Mathematics, University of Aberdeen, Scotland, UK, where a part of this study was done under the IMU-CDC Individual Travel Support Program. G.M. is supported

In this study, the gravitational deflection angle of photons in the weak field limit (or the weak deflection angle) and shadow cast by the electrically charged and spherically symmetric static Kiselev black hole (BH) in the string cloud background are investigated. The influences of the BH charge Q, quintessence parameter γ, and string cloud parameter a on the weak deflection angle are studied using the Gauss-Bonnet theorem, in addition to studying the influences on the radius of photon spheres and size of the BH shadow in the spacetime geometry of the charged-Kiselev BH in string clouds. Moreover, we study the effects of plasma (uniform and non-uniform) on the weak deflection angle and shadow cast by the charged-Kiselev BH surrounded by the clouds of strings. In the presence of a uniform/nonuniform plasma medium, an increase in the string cloud parameter a increases the deflection angle α. In contrast, a decrease in the BH charge Q decreases the deflection angle. Further, we observe that an increase in the BH charge Q causes a decrease in the size of the shadow of the BH. We notice that, with an increase in the values of the parameters γ and a, the size of the BH shadow increases, and therefore, the intensity of the gravitational field around the charged-Kiselev BH in string clouds increases. Thus, the gravitational field of the charged-Kiselev BH in the string cloud background is stronger than the field produced by the pure Reissner-Nordstrom BH. Moreover, we use the data released by the Event Horizon Telescope (EHT) collaboration, for the supermassive BHs M87* and Sgr A*, to obtain constraints on the values of the parameters γ and a.

Cutting through and going along: A comment on knowing by singing

American AnthropologistVolume 124, Issue 4 p. 885-890 COMMENTARY Cutting through and going along: A comment on knowing by singing Tim Ingold, Corresponding Author Tim Ingold [email protected] orcid.org/0000-0001-6703-6137 Department of Anthropology, University of Aberdeen Correspondence Tim Ingold, Department of Anthropology, University of Aberdeen. Email: [email protected]Search for more papers by this author Tim Ingold, Corresponding Author Tim Ingold [email protected] orcid.org/0000-0001-6703-6137 Department of Anthropology, University of Aberdeen Correspondence Tim Ingold, Department of Anthropology, University of Aberdeen. Email: [email protected]Search for more papers by this author First published: 20 October 2022 https://doi.org/10.1111/aman.13786Read the full textAboutPDF ToolsRequest permissionExport citationAdd to favoritesTrack citation ShareShare Give accessShare full text accessShare full-text accessPlease review our Terms and Conditions of Use and check box below to share full-text version of article.I have read and accept the Wiley Online Library Terms and Conditions of UseShareable LinkUse the link below to share a full-text version of this article with your friends and colleagues. Learn more.Copy URL Share a linkShare onFacebookTwitterLinkedInRedditWechat Volume124, Issue4December 2022Pages 885-890 RelatedInformation

The Climate Science for Ecological Forecasting symposium

The Climate Science for Ecological Forecasting symposium

The first International Conference on Mechanical System Dynamics grandly convened in Nanjing, China

The first International Conference on Mechanical System Dynamics grandly convened in Nanjing, China

Using a discrete choice experiment to develop a decision aid tool to inform the management of persistent pain in pharmacy: a protocol for a randomised feasibility study

IntroductionIn an era of personalised healthcare, it has become increasingly important to elicit individual-level preferences. While discrete choice experiments (DCEs) are widely used to measure patient preferences in the delivery...

Inside the UK’s brave new world of ATMP regulatory innovation

Jacqueline Barry is the Chief Clinical Officer, responsible for Clinical Translation and Delivery activities and an Executive Director of the Cell and Gene Therapy Catapult. She has extensive experience in the development of advanced therapy medicinal products and leads a multi-disciplinary team of Nonclinical, Regulatory, Clinical Operations and Programme Management specialists. She also leads the coordination of the UK Advanced Therapy Treatment Centre Network and is a Director of the Global Alliance for iPSC Therapies. She feels passionately about making advanced therapies available for patients and works closely with the MHRA and the NHS on the development of the ecosystems to support the adoption of these therapies. Prior her time at Cell and Gene Therapy Catapult, Jacqueline worked at the Scottish National Blood Transfusion Service where amongst other activities she designed the regulatory strategy for the Cellular Therapies for the Blood Transfusion Service and acted as Qualified Person for their release. She has a PhD from the University of Aberdeen and did post-doctoral research in neurophysiology at the University of Edinburgh.

Predicting cumulative live birth for couples beginning their second complete cycle of in vitro fertilization treatment.

STUDY QUESTIONCan we develop an IVF prediction model to estimate individualized chances of a live birth over multiple complete cycles of IVF in couples embarking on their second complete cycle of treatment?SUMMARY ANSWERYes, our prediction model can estimate individualized chances of cumulative live birth over three additional complete cycles of IVF.WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADYAfter the completion of a first complete cycle of IVF, couples who are unsuccessful may choose to undergo further treatment to have their first child, while those who have had a live birth may decide to have more children. Existing prediction models can estimate the overall chances of success in couples before commencing IVF but are unable to revise these chances on the basis of the couple’s response to a first treatment cycle in terms of the number of eggs retrieved and pregnancy outcome. This makes it difficult for couples to plan and prepare emotionally and financially for the next step in their treatment.STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATIONFor model development, a population-based cohort was used of 49 314 women who started their second cycle of IVF including ICSI in the UK from 1999 to 2008 using their own oocytes and their partners’ sperm. External validation was performed on data from 39 442 women who underwent their second cycle from 2010 to 2016.PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODSData about all UK IVF treatments were obtained from the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA) database. Using a discrete time logistic regression model, we predicted the cumulative probability of live birth from the second up to and including the fourth complete cycles of IVF. Inverse probability weighting was used to account for treatment discontinuation. Discrimination was assessed using c-statistic and calibration was assessed using calibration-in-the-large and calibration slope.MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCEFollowing exclusions, 49 314 women with 73 053 complete cycles were included. 12 408 (25.2%) had a live birth resulting from their second complete cycle. Cumulatively, 17 394 (35.3%) had a live birth over complete cycles two to four. The model showed moderate discriminative ability (c-statistic: 0.65, 95% CI: 0.64 to 0.65) and evidence of overprediction (calibration-in-the-large = −0.08) and overfitting (calibration slope 0.85, 95% CI: 0.81 to 0.88) in the validation cohort. However, after recalibration the fit was much improved. The recalibrated model identified the following key predictors of live birth: female age (38 versus 32 years—adjusted odds ratio: 0.59, 95% CI: 0.57 to 0.62), number of eggs retrieved in the first complete cycle (12 versus 4 eggs; 1.34, 1.30 to 1.37) and outcome of the first complete cycle (live birth versus no pregnancy; 1.78, 1.66 to 1.91; live birth versus pregnancy loss; 1.29, 1.23 to 1.36). As an example, a 32-year-old with 2 years of non-tubal infertility who had 12 eggs retrieved from her first stimulation and had a live birth during her first complete cycle has a 46% chance of having a further live birth from the second complete cycle of IVF and an 81% chance over a further three cycles.LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTIONThe developed model was updated using validation data that was 6 to 12 years old. IVF practice continues to evolve over time, which may affect the accuracy of predictions from the model. We were unable to adjust for some potentially important predictors, e.g. BMI, smoking and alcohol intake in women, as well as measures of ovarian reserve such as antral follicle count. These were not available in the linked HFEA dataset.WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGSBy appropriately adjusting for couples who discontinue treatment, our novel prediction model will provide more realistic chances of live birth in couples starting a second complete cycle of IVF. Clinicians can use these predictions to inform discussion with couples who wish to plan ahead. This prediction tool will enable couples to prepare emotionally, financially and logistically for IVF treatment.STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S)This study was supported by an Elphinstone scholarship scheme at the University of Aberdeen and Aberdeen Fertility Centre, University of Aberdeen. The authors have no conflict of interest.TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBERN/A.

Virtual field trips utilizing virtual outcrop: construction, delivery and implications for the future

Abstract. The advent of photorealistic, 3D computer models of cliff sections (virtual outcrops) has improved the immersive nature of virtual geological field trips. As the COVID-19 pandemic led to widespread national and international travel restrictions, virtual field trips (VFTs) became practical and essential substitutes for traditional field trips and accelerated the development of VFTs based on virtual outcrop data. This contribution explores two such VFTs delivered to a masters level Integrated Petroleum Geoscience course at the University of Aberdeen. These VFTs are based on traditional field trips that are normally run to the Spanish Pyrenees and Utah (USA). The paper summarizes the delivery mechanism for VFTs based on virtual outcrops and examines student perception, gauged primarily through questionnaires and learning outcomes. The VFTs were run in LIME, a software specifically designed for the interpretation of 3D models and the delivery of VFTs. Overall, the student perception was very positive and comparable to satisfaction with the conventional trips. Staff feedback and student assessments suggest that the learning outcomes were satisfied and highlight the value of this method of teaching for students who are unable to attend the field trip and as an addition for those who can.

Aberdeen, City of Culture?

Aberdeen, City of Culture?

Bioelectricity Buzz.

Bioelectricity Buzz.

A new map of the chanonry of the cathedral church of the Holy and Undivided Trinity at Elgin, Morayshire

In the Victorian Era, several Morayshire antiquaries attempted to reconstruct the plan of the ancient precincts, or chanonry, of the cathedral church of the Holy Trinity at Elgin. So comprehensive was their work, and such were their reputations, that little has been done since to re-examine their legacy. A discovery in the library of the University of Aberdeen has led to a review of the work that has previously been accepted as showing the layout of the cathedral precincts. It has necessitated the production of a definitive list of the prebends of the cathedral and has provided information regarding some of the chaplainries that were within it. A modified map of the chanonry has been produced based on a previous version which was published by Charles Rampini.

Development and Optimization of Surface and Volume Radiofrequency Coils Suitable for Fast-Field-Cycling Magnetic Resonance Imaging (FFC-MRI)


 
 
 
 
 Objective: To evaluate a modelling and design methodology employed in constructing and optimizing radiofrequency (RF) coils suitable for use with the whole-body fast-field-cycling Magnetic Resonance Imaging (FFC-MRI). It is also aimed at comparing the sensitivity and the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of the various types of surface RF coils constructed at the initial and final stages of this research.
 Methodology: An experimental study carried out at Biomedical MRI Laboratory at University of Aberdeen. Various designs of RF coil were constructed, optimized and tested with network/signal analyser for use with an experimental FFC - MRI scanner, operating at a detection magnetic field of 0.2 T (proton Larmor frequency of 8.5 MHz). The coils comprised circular loop (CL) RF – receive surface coil and a birdcage RF – transmit volume coil. The intrinsic parameters of the CL coils were measured using a search-coil field probe and a network/signal analyser.
 Results: The CL surface coil constructed with copper wire had resonant frequency of 8.46 MHz and Quality factor (Q – factor) of 47.1 while the resonant frequency of the one constructed with litz wire was 8.54 MHz and Q - factor of 85.4 MHz. The intrinsic parameter of the birdcage volume coil was 8.48 MHz and Q - factor of 102.
 Conclusion: Bench testing of the coils showed promise as receiver and transmit coils for the FFC-MRI system
 
 
 
 

Protocol for developing a core outcome set for male infertility research: an international consensus development study.

STUDY QUESTIONWe aim to develop, disseminate and implement a minimum data set, known as a core outcome set, for future male infertility research.WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADYResearch into male infertility can be challenging to design, conduct and report. Evidence from randomized trials can be difficult to interpret and of limited ability to inform clinical practice for numerous reasons. These may include complex issues, such as variation in outcome measures and outcome reporting bias, as well as failure to consider the perspectives of men and their partners with lived experience of fertility problems. Previously, the Core Outcome Measure for Infertility Trials (COMMIT) initiative, an international consortium of researchers, healthcare professionals and people with fertility problems, has developed a core outcome set for general infertility research. Now, a bespoke core outcome set for male infertility is required to address the unique challenges pertinent to male infertility research.STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATIONStakeholders, including healthcare professionals, allied healthcare professionals, scientists, researchers and people with fertility problems, will be invited to participate. Formal consensus science methods will be used, including the modified Delphi method, modified Nominal Group Technique and the National Institutes of Health’s consensus development conference.PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODSAn international steering group, including the relevant stakeholders outlined above, has been established to guide the development of this core outcome set. Possible core outcomes will be identified by undertaking a systematic review of randomized controlled trials evaluating potential treatments for male factor infertility. These outcomes will be entered into a modified Delphi method. Repeated reflection and re-scoring should promote convergence towards consensus outcomes, which will be prioritized during a consensus development meeting to identify a final core outcome set. We will establish standardized definitions and recommend high-quality measurement instruments for individual core outcomes.STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S)This work has been supported by the Urology Foundation small project award, 2021. C.L.R.B. is the recipient of a BMGF grant and received consultancy fees from Exscentia and Exceed sperm testing, paid to the University of Dundee and speaking fees or honoraria paid personally by Ferring, Copper Surgical and RBMO. S.B. received royalties from Cambridge University Press, Speaker honoraria for Obstetrical and Gynaecological Society of Singapore, Merk SMART Masterclass and Merk FERRING Forum, paid to the University of Aberdeen. Payment for leadership roles within NHS Grampian, previously paid to self, now paid to University of Aberdeen. An Honorarium is received as Editor in Chief of Human Reproduction Open. M.L.E. is an advisor to the companies Hannah and Ro. B.W.M. received an investigator grant from the NHMRC, No: GNT1176437 is a paid consultant for ObsEva and has received research funding from Ferring and Merck. R.R.H. received royalties from Elsevier for a book, consultancy fees from Glyciome, and presentation fees from GryNumber Health and Aytu Bioscience. Aytu Bioscience also funded MiOXYS systems and sensors. Attendance at Fertility 2020 and Roadshow South Africa by Ralf Henkel was funded by LogixX Pharma Ltd. R.R.H. is also Editor in Chief of Andrologia and has been an employee of LogixX Pharma Ltd. since 2020. M.S.K. is an associate editor with Human Reproduction Open. K.Mc.E. received an honoraria for lectures from Bayer and Pharmasure in 2019 and payment for an ESHRE grant review in 2019. His attendance at ESHRE 2019 and AUA 2019 was sponsored by Pharmasure and Bayer, respectively. The remaining authors declare no competing interests.TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBERCore Outcome Measures in Effectiveness Trials (COMET) initiative registration No: 1586. Available at www.comet-initiative.org/Studies/Details/1586.TRIAL REGISTRATION DATEN/A.DATE OF FIRST PATIENT’S ENROLMENTN/A.

A Conversation with Elisabeth Niklasson

Elisabeth Niklasson is lecturer at the School of Geosciences at the University of Aberdeen. She holds two master’s degrees in Cultural Heritage and Computational Archaeology from Gothenburg University, and a PhD in Archaeology from Stockholm University. She has long been interested in the ethical and political aspects of archaeological heritage, particularly relating to contemporary identity politics. A core part of her research has focused on European heritage policies, studying the influence of European Union (EU) funding schemes on archaeology. She has also reflected critically on the reception of aDNA in archaeology. In recent years, she has expanded her focus to analyse uses of the past by populist and extreme right movements in Europe, making vital contributions to our understanding of heritage in times of political polarization.

Potential Co‐benefits and trade‐offs between improved soil management, climate change mitigation and agri‐food productivity

AbstractMaximising resource‐use efficiency, productivity and environmental sustainability are all fundamental requirements to raise global food production by ~70 per cent in order to feed a world population of ~9.7 billion people by 2050. Perhaps the most vital resource within our capacity to achieve this goal is our soil. Broadly, the fundamental question concerns whether or not satisfying this production demand will accelerate soil degradation, climate change, and the loss of soil carbon stocks. This paper builds upon the outputs of the UK Charity ‘Food & Farming Futures’ (chaired by Lord Curry of Kirkharle) virtual workshop held on 23 March 2021, entitled ‘Capturing the Potential of Soil’. The event focussed on the link between soil health, primarily soil organic carbon (SOC), and agricultural productivity. Supported with commentaries by Professor Pete Smith (University of Aberdeen and Science Director of the Scottish Climate Change Centre of Expertise) and Professor Steve McGrath (Head of Sustainable Agricultural Sciences at Rothamsted Research), specific focus will be given to the research challenges within the UK’s ability to improve soil health and functionality, the implementation priorities that must be held in order to improve soil management by 2050 and what the potential co‐benefits could be. These co‐benefits were scattered across environmental, economic, social and political issues, yet they may be summarised into six primary co‐benefits: developing natural capital, climate change mitigation, carbon trading, improvements in crop yield, animal performance and human health (nutrition). Additionally, the main barriers to improved soil management practices are centred on knowledge exchange‐regarding agri‐environmental techniques—whilst the most impactful solutions rely on soil monitoring, reporting and verification.