bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study of association of migraine susceptibility genes with common migraine in 200,000 exome-sequenced UK Biobank participants
Authors: Markel Katherine Alexis , Curtis David
Published: December 2021

Background

A number of genes have been implicated in rare familial syndromes which have migraine as part of their phenotype but these genes have not previously been implicated in the common form of migraine.

Methods

Among exome-sequenced participants in the UK Biobank we identified 7,194 migraine cases with the remaining 193,433 participants classified as controls. We investigated ten genes previously reported to be implicated in conditions with migraine as a prominent part of the phenotype and carried out gene and variant based tests for association.

Results

We found no evidence for association of these genes or variants with the common form of migraine seen in our subjects. In particular, a frameshift variant in KCNK18, F139Wfs*24, which had been shown to segregate with migraine with aura in a multiply affected pedigree was found in 196 (0.10%) controls as well as in 10 (0.14%) cases (χ2 = 0.96, 1 df, p = 0.33).

Conclusions

Since there is no other reported evidence to implicate KCNK18, we conclude that this gene and its product, TRESK, should no longer be regarded as being involved in migraine aetiology. Overall, we do not find that rare, functional variants in genes previously implicated to be involved in familial syndromes including migraine as part of the phenotype make a contribution to the commoner forms of migraine observed in this population.
Optimization of surface quality and machining time in micro-milling of glass
Authors: Dinc Ali , Mamedov Ali
Published: December 2021

Purpose

Glass is a brittle material produced from silica, which has fine material properties, Owing to its sophisticated material properties, glass has found wide application in various high-technological fields such as aviation, aerospace, communication, optics, biomedical and electronics. However, glass is known as difficult to machine material because of its tendency to brittle fracture during machining. This paper aims to investigate the effects of cutting parameters on surface quality and machining time during micro-milling of brittle glass components.

Design/methodology/approach

A comprehensive genetic algorithm-based optimization strategy is used for selection of process parameters such as cutting speed, feed rate and depth of cut. Effectiveness of the proposed strategy is validated by conducting micro-milling cutting experiments on soda-lime glass material.

Findings

Results showed that the generated surface quality drastically decrease with increase in the amount of removed material. Lower depth of cut and feed rate result in less amount of cracks formed on machined surface. Also, it is observed that the increase in cutting speed results in better surface quality. Having desired surface quality in shorter machining time directly reduces energy consumed during manufacturing, which is reducing environmental impact of glass parts.

Originality/value

The novelty of this research work lies in simultaneously considering the effects of cutting speed, feed rate, depth of cut on surface quality and machining time for micro-milling operation of brittle glass material. The model is able to find optimum process parameters for high surface quality and minimum machining time.
Managing BPM life cycle transition risks in a small educational company to support change management
Authors: Souza Larissa Ane Hora de , Carvalho Victor Diogho Heuer de , Santos Roberio José Rogério dos , Silva Jonhatan Magno Norte da
Published: December 2021

Purpose

This article aims to present a methodology applied to the transition between the “as-is” and “to-be” stages of the Business Process Management (BPM) life cycle, supporting its implementation and maintenance for the organizational stability, using techniques from Operations Research and Information and Decision Theories, applied by a gamified system.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used Design Science Research, considering the following methodological elements: (1) artifact model, after initial analysis of the organization; (2) problem relevance, incorporating components to the Markov transition matrix and the integer programming model for resource optimization; (3) model evaluation, establishing mechanisms to validate the methodology created; (4) research contributions, showing benefits found; (5) systematic approach, detailing methods used; (6) model's research process, revealing the means for execution; and (7) final presentation of results.

Findings

After planning three scenarios for the company, containing zero, one or two implemented processes, the matrix of states in the Markov chain effectively identified the states of greater and lesser transition uncertainty. At the same time, the optimization model guided the organization toward a stable change in its operational and financial areas.

Practical implications

The company's planning capacity has increased, as its managers now have a methodology to promote rational decisions about the development of plans. Before, managers believed that the methodology used was only for large companies. However, this view changed with the results, showing a structured view of the ability to absorb new customers, relocate established ones, increase the comfort level for employees and increase profitability for the company's business.

Originality/value

The study showed that the combination of techniques opens a new perspective to the incorporation of BPM in organizations, allows a smooth change between the current and future state, making it possible to predict the evolution of transition scenarios.
Congestion management in deregulated power system using adaptive moth swarm optimization
Authors: Ramaporselvi R. , Geetha G.
Published: December 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to enhance the line congestion and to minimize power loss. Transmission line congestion is considered the most acute trouble during the operation of the power system. Therefore, congestion management acts as an effective tool in using the available power without breaking the system hindrances or limitations.

Design/methodology/approach

Over the past few years, determining the optimal location and size of the devices have pinched a great deal of consideration. Numerous approaches have been established to mitigate the congestion rate, and this paper aims to enhance the line congestion and minimize power loss by determining the compensation rate and optimal location of a thyristor-switched capacitor (TCSC) using adaptive moth swarm optimization (AMSO) algorithm.

Findings

An AMSO algorithm uses the performances of moth flame and the chaotic local search-based shrinking scheme of the bacterial foraging optimization algorithm. The proposed AMSO approach is executed and discussed for the IEEE-30 bus system for determining the optimal location of single TCSC and dual TCSC.

Originality/value

In addition to this, the proposed algorithm is compared with various other existing approaches, and the results thus obtained provide better performances than other techniques.
Mental health and COVID-19 perceptions in a predominant black population in the Eastern Caribbean: an exploratory study of residents of Barbados
Authors: King Jolene , Devonish Dwayne
Published: December 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine the mental health challenges of residents of Barbados during the COVID-19 pandemic and the relationships between residents’ demographics, COVID-19 perceptions and mental health outcomes.

Design/methodology/approach

The study surveyed 450 predominantly Black Caribbean respondents to examine their mental ill-health on the various dimensions of the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ)-28 measure and the relationships with demographics and COVID-19 perceptions.

Findings

Confirmatory factor analysis confirmed the four-factor model solution of GHQ-28 over the single factor solution. Barbadians were generally mild in their mental ill-health on the somatic symptoms, social dysfunction and severe depression dimensions but were at least moderately strained on the anxiety and insomnia dimensions. Younger and unemployed Barbadian respondents reported more adverse mental health outcomes, and perceived severity of COVID-19 infection significantly predicted three of the four dimensions of mental distress (excluding severe depression).

Research limitations/implications

The study used a cross-sectional self-report survey research design which does not permit causal inferences. Further research is advised to ascertain the longitudinal effects of COVID-19 perceptions over time on mental health outcomes.

Practical implications

The study’s findings suggest the need for nation-wide, multi-stakeholder interventions or approaches in responding mental health challenges of the population during this crisis.

Originality/value

The study was the first to examine the mental health outcomes, using GHQ-28, in a small Caribbean country – which represents an underserved space in mental health research. It is the first to empirically examine the relationship between COVID-19 perceptions of Afro-Caribbean people in this region and their resultant mental health outcomes.
Identification of printed circuit boards mechanical properties using response surface methods
Authors: Gharaibeh Mohammad
Published: December 2021

Purpose

This study aims to discuss the determination of the unknown in-plane mechanical material properties of printed circuit boards (PCBs) by correlating the results from dynamic testing and finite element (FE) models using the response surface method (RSM).

Design/methodology/approach

The first 10 resonant frequencies and vibratory mode shapes are measured using modal analysis with hammer testing experiment, and hence, systematically compared with finite element analysis (FEA) results. The RSM is consequently used to minimize the cumulative error between dynamic testing and FEA results by continuously modifying the FE model, to acquire material properties of PCBs.

Findings

Great agreement is shown when comparing FEA to measurements, the optimum in-plane material properties were identified, and hence, verified.

Originality/value

This paper used FEA and RSMs along with modal measurements to obtain in-plane material properties of PCBs. The methodology presented here can be easily generalized and repeated for different board designs and configurations.
Significance of fabrication parameters over the mechanical and metallurgical properties of AMMC joint formed by microwave hybrid heating
Authors: Singh Jagbir , Kataria Mukul , Kumar Vishesh , Jawalkar Chandrashekhar , Belokar Rajendra Madhukar
Published: December 2021

Purpose

The purpose of the study is to fabricate a joint between two aluminium metal matrix composites using microwave hybrid heating (MHH).

Design/methodology/approach

Taguchi design of experiments was applied to conduct the experimental study. The mechanical properties such as ultimate tensile strength, micro-hardness and porosity were studied. Grey Relational Analysis was applied to understand the significance of fabrication parameters of best performing sample. The dominant factor of fabrication was analysed using ANOVA. The best performance sample was further characterised using X-ray diffraction and field emission scanning electron microscopy. Energy dispersive X-ray was used to analyse the elemental composition of the sample.

Findings

The Aluminium Metal Matrix Composite (AMMC) joint was successfully fabricated using MHH. The mechanical properties were mainly influenced by the fabrication factor of exposure time.

Originality/value

The formation of AMMC joint using MHH might explore the way for the industries in the field of joining.
Development and validation of a prediction model for bothersome stress urinary incontinence after prolapse surgery: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Oh Sumin , Lee Sungyoung , Hwang Woo Yeon , Suh Dong Hoon , Jeon Myung Jae
Published: December 2021

Objective

To develop and validate a prediction model for bothersome stress urinary incontinence after prolapse surgery and to compare it with an existing clinical prediction model (CUPIDO model).

Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

Two tertiary hospitals in South Korea.

Population

A total of 1142 patients who underwent prolapse surgery with or without a concomitant midurethral sling.

Methods

To construct a prediction model, we performed logistic regression using both exhaustive and stepwise variable selection, validating the model both internally and externally.

Main Outcome Measures

Bothersome stress urinary incontinence defined as the presence of bothersome symptoms of stress urinary incontinence and/or subsequent continence procedure one year after surgery.

Results

Postoperative bothersome stress urinary incontinence occurred in 10% of patients. A model containing six predictors (age, diabetes mellitus, subjective urinary incontinence, prolapse reduction stress test result, type of prolapse surgery, and a concomitant midurethral sling) showed excellent performance for predicting bothersome stress urinary incontinence (area under the curve 0.74, 95% confidence interval 0.62–0.86) and outperformed the CUPIDO model (area under the curve 0.63, 95% confidence interval 0.49–0.76; DeLong’s test P = 0.014).

Conclusions

This prediction model might be a useful tool to guide patient decision making regarding a concomitant continence procedure at the time of prolapse surgery. The predictive value of this model needs to be validated further in cohorts with different characteristics.

Tweetable Abstract

The proposed prediction model for bothersome stress urinary incontinence after prolapse surgery outperforms an existing model.
Differentiation between spinal subchondral bone metastasis with focal pathologic endplate fracture and oedematous Schmorl’s node
Authors: Oh Eunsun , Kim Hyun‐joo , Kwon Jong Won , Yoon Young Cheol , Kim Hyun Su
Published: December 2021

Introduction

We aimed to identify imaging‐based findings that can differentiate between spinal subchondral bone metastasis with focal pathologic endplate fracture and oedematous Schmorl’s nodes that have been histopathologically confirmed.

Methods

Between March 2010 and April 2016, 11 patients who had undergone spinal magnetic resonance (MR) imaging or computed tomography (CT) with final radiologic reports that included ‘subchondral bone metastasis with focal pathologic endplate fracture’ or ‘edematous Schmorl’s node’ and had also undergone percutaneous imaging‐guided spinal biopsies were included. Two radiologists retrospectively evaluated the following imaging features in consensus: size, location, presence of sclerotic margin, presence of intralesional or perilesional enhancement and opposite endplate enhancement of the involved disc, presence of disc height loss and presence of metabolic uptake at a corresponding lesion on nuclear medicine imaging.

Results

A total of 11 patients, including six patients with spinal subchondral bone metastasis with focal pathologic endplate fracture and five patients with oedematous Schmorl’s nodes, were included in this study (median age, 58 years; range, 50–63 years; six men). Sclerotic margin (P = 0.002) and enhancement on the opposite endplate of the involved disc (P = 0.047) were significantly different between oedematous Schmorl’s node and subchondral bone metastasis with focal pathologic endplate fracture.

Conclusion

Sclerotic margin and enhancement on the opposite endplate of the involved disc suggest oedematous Schmorl’s node rather than subchondral bone metastasis with focal pathologic endplate fracture. Decreased disc height is likely to be an oedematous Schmorl’s node rather than subchondral bone metastasis with focal pathologic endplate fracture.
Safety and efficacy of tofacitinib for treatment of ulcerative colitis: final analysis of OCTAVE Open, an open‐label, long‐term extension study with up to 7.0 years of treatment
Authors: Sandborn William J. , Lawendy Nervin , Danese Silvio , Su Chinyu , Loftus Edward V. , Hart Ailsa , Dotan Iris , Damião Adérson O. M. C. , Judd Donna T. , Guo Xiang , Modesto Irene , Wang Wenjin , Panés Julian
Published: December 2021

Background

Tofacitinib is an oral, small molecule Janus kinase inhibitor for the treatment of ulcerative colitis. We present final data from OCTAVE Open, an open‐label, long‐term extension study.

Aims

The primary objective of OCTAVE Open was to assess the safety and tolerability of long‐term tofacitinib in patients with ulcerative colitis; evaluating efficacy was a secondary objective.

Methods

Eligible patients included OCTAVE Induction 1&2 non‐responders and OCTAVE Sustain completers/treatment failures. Patients in remission at OCTAVE Open baseline received tofacitinib 5 mg b.d.; all others received 10 mg b.d. Incidence rates (unique patients with events/100 patient‐years) for adverse events of special interest were calculated; ≤7.0 years of observation. Efficacy endpoints derived from Mayo score were reported ≤36 months (last scheduled endoscopy visit).

Results

In OCTAVE Open, 769 of 944 patients (81.5%) initially received tofacitinib 10 mg b.d. Among all patients (2440.8 patient‐years of exposure), incidence rates (IRs; 95% confidence intervals) for deaths and adverse events of special interest were: deaths, 0.25 (0.09‐0.54); serious infections, 1.61 (1.14‐2.20); herpes zoster (non‐serious and serious), 3.16 (2.47‐3.97); opportunistic infections, 0.87 (0.54‐1.33); major adverse cardiovascular events, 0.16 (0.04‐0.42); malignancies (excluding non‐melanoma skin cancer), 1.03 (0.67‐1.52); non‐melanoma skin cancer, 0.75 (0.45‐1.19); deep vein thrombosis, 0.04 (0.00‐0.23); pulmonary embolism, 0.21 (0.07‐0.48). At Month 36, 66.9% and 40.3% showed clinical response, 64.6% and 37.1% had endoscopic improvement, and 58.9% and 33.7% maintained or achieved remission, with tofacitinib 5 and 10 mg b.d. respectively.

Conclusion

Tofacitinib demonstrated consistent safety up to 7.0  years. Data collected up to Month 36 support long‐term efficacy beyond the 52‐week maintenance study.
The myth of organization autonomy: Social workers’ salary under the lump sum grant subvention system in Hong Kong
Authors: Dai Haijing , Jiang Niantao , Li Ruobing
Published: December 2021

Adopting the principles of managerialism, the Lump Sum Grant Subvention System in Hong Kong grants service organizations autonomy to deploy resources. Using organization‐ and individual‐level survey data, this article examines the salaries of social workers under the managerialist subvention system and investigates its impacts on frontline service professionals. We found that when service organizations adopted flexible employment terms to hire social workers, they offered lower minimum wage. Smaller organizations, which are often believed to benefit more from the system, paid social workers lower minimum wage. When individual social workers made use of flexible employment terms and switched their jobs in the welfare sector, there was no evidence that their income levels would be raised—on the contrary, switching jobs for three or more times would in fact lower their income levels. Furthermore, while the system encouraged social workers to get more involved in management work, there was no evidence that increasing work hours on management‐related work would increase the income of social workers. As organizational autonomy does not necessarily result in income justice for frontline social workers, clear guidelines, supervision, and policy interventions in the management of service organizations are still needed in social service planning and delivery.
Significance of anti‐HBc serological status in primary immune thrombocytopenia
Authors: Wang Lingjun , Li Lizhen , Li Chaoyang , Hou Yu , Xu Miao , Yu Yafei , Ni Xiaofei , Wang Ruting , Wang Haoyi , Wang Lin , Peng Jun , Hou Ming
Published: December 2021

The association of previous hepatitis B virus (HBV) exposure [hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) negative, hepatitis B core antibody (anti‐HBc/HBcAb) positive] with disease severity and decision on treatment option in primary immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) patients remains unclear. Data from 725 patients diagnosed with ITP were analyzed to elucidate the association between anti‐HBc serological status and disease severity. Data from a published prospective study [high‐dose dexamethasone (HD‐DXM), HD‐DXM plus recombinant human thrombopoietin, NCT01734044] and two retrospective studies (standard‐dose and low‐dose rituximab) were rearranged to evaluate the impact of anti‐HBc serological status on the response and outcome to ITP‐specific treatments and the risk of HBV reactivation related to these treatments. The prevalence of HBsAg−HBcAb+ and HBsAg−HBcAb− in ITP patients was 51·03% and 48·97% respectively. Compared to the HBsAg−HBcAb− group, patients in the HBsAg−HBcAb+ group had lower platelet count, higher bleeding score, and longer hospitalization (P = 0·002, 0·033, and 0·008 respectively). Moreover, the initial complete response rate of HBsAg−HBcAb+ patients was lower than that of HBsAg−HBcAb− patients (45·2% vs 59·8%, P = 0·027). In conclusion, previous HBV exposure was correlated with disease severity and hospitalization in ITP patients. Anti‐HBc positivity may be considered as a predictor for poor response to ITP‐specific treatments.
Linking metaphor comprehension with analogical reasoning: Evidence from typical development and autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Morsanyi Kinga , Hamilton Jayne , Stamenković Dušan , Holyoak Keith J.
Published: December 2021

We examined the relationship between metaphor comprehension and verbal analogical reasoning in young adults who were either typically developing (TD) or diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The ASD sample was highly educated and high in verbal ability, and closely matched to a subset of TD participants on age, gender, educational background, and verbal ability. Additional TD participants with a broader range of abilities were also tested. Each participant solved sets of verbal analogies and metaphors in verification formats, allowing measurement of both accuracy and reaction times. Measures of individual differences in vocabulary, verbal working memory, and autistic traits were also obtained. Accuracy for both the verbal analogy and the metaphor task was very similar across the ASD and matched TD groups. However, reaction times on both tasks were longer for the ASD group. Additionally, stronger correlations between verbal analogical reasoning and working memory capacity in the ASD group indicated that processing verbal analogies was more effortful for them. In the case of both groups, accuracy on the metaphor and analogy tasks was correlated. A mediation analysis revealed that after controlling for working memory capacity, the inter‐task correlation could be accounted for by the mediating variable of vocabulary knowledge, suggesting that the primary common mechanisms linking the two tasks involve language skills.
The antibiotic drug trimethoprim suppresses tumour growth and metastasis via targeting Snail
Authors: Ren Bo‐Xue , Li Yang , Li Hong‐Mei , Lu Tao , Wu Zhao‐Qiu , Fu Rong
Published: December 2021

Background and Purpose

The zinc finger transcription factor Snail is aberrantly activated in many human cancers and strongly associated with poor prognosis. As a transcription factor, Snail has been traditionally considered an ‘undruggable’ target. Here, we identified a potent small‐molecule inhibitor of Snail, namely trimethoprim, and investigated its potential antitumour effects and the underlying mechanisms.

Experimental Approach

The inhibitory action of trimethoprim on Snail protein and the related molecular mechanisms were revealed by molecular docking, biolayer interferometry, immunoblotting, immunoprecipitation, qRT‐PCR, pull‐down and cycloheximide pulse‐chase assays. The anti‐proliferative and anti‐metastatic effects of trimethoprim via targeting Snail were tested in multiple cell‐based assays and animal models.

Key Results

This study identified trimethoprim, an antimicrobial drug, as a potent antitumour agent via targeting Snail. Molecular modelling analysis predicted that trimethoprim directly binds to the arginine‐174 pocket of Snail protein. We further discovered that trimethoprim strongly interrupts the interaction of Snail with CREB‐binding protein (CBP)/p300, which consequently suppresses Snail acetylation and promotes Snail degradation through the ubiquitin‐proteasome pathway. Furthermore, trimethoprim sufficiently inhibited the proliferation, epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) and migration of cancer cells in vitro via specifically targeting Snail. More importantly, trimethoprim effectively reduced Snail‐driven tumour growth and metastasis to vital organs such as lung, bone and liver.

Conclusions and Implications

These findings indicate, for the first time, that trimethoprim suppresses tumour growth and metastasis via targeting Snail. This study provides insights for a better understanding of the anticancer effects of trimethoprim and offers a potential anticancer therapeutic agent for clinical treatment.
Achenbach syndrome in an older man
Authors: Mizuno Y. , Norimatsu Y. , Ohno Y.
Published: December 2021

Dermatologists should consider Achenbach syndrome in the differential diagnosis for patients with purpura on the fingers. The patient should be monitored following appropriate examination and invasive tests, such as skin biopsy or angiography, should be avoided unless necessary.
Population pharmacokinetics and exposure‐response modeling analyses of guselkumab in patients with psoriatic arthritis
Authors: Chen Yang , Miao Xin , Hsu Chyi‐Hung , Zhuang Yanli , Kollmeier Alexa , Xu Zhenhua , Zhou Honghui , Sharma Amarnath
Published: December 2021

Guselkumab is an anti‐interleukin‐23 human monoclonal antibody effective in treating psoriatic arthritis (PsA). To characterize the pharmacokinetics (PKs) and exposure‐response relationship of guselkumab in PsA, population PKs, and exposure‐response modeling, analyses were conducted using data from pivotal phase III studies of subcutaneous guselkumab in patients with PsA. The observed serum concentration‐time data of guselkumab were adequately described by a one‐compartment linear PK model with first‐order absorption and elimination. Covariates identified as contributing to the observed guselkumab PK variability were body weight and diabetes comorbidity; however, the magnitude of the effects of these covariates was not considered clinically relevant, and dose adjustment was not warranted for the patient population investigated. Positive exposure‐response relationships were demonstrated with landmark and longitudinal exposure‐response analyses between guselkumab exposure and clinical efficacy end points (American College of Rheumatology [ACR] 20%, 50%, and 70% improvement criteria and Investigator’s Global Assessment [IGA] of psoriasis) at weeks 20 and/or 24, with no clinically relevant differences observed in improvement of PsA signs and symptoms between the two guselkumab treatment regimens evaluated (100 mg every 4 weeks or 100 mg at weeks 0 and 4, then every 8 weeks). Baseline Disease Activity Score in 28 joints (DAS28), Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) score, and/or C‐reactive protein level were identified as influencing covariates on guselkumab exposure‐response model parameters. These results provide a comprehensive evaluation of subcutaneous guselkumab PKs and exposure‐response relationship that supports the dose regimen of 100 mg at weeks 0 and 4, then every 8 weeks in patients with PsA.
Markedly elevated serum preoperative thyroglobulin predicts radioiodine‐refractory thyroid cancer
Authors: Cheng Xian , Xu Shichen , Zhu Yun , Wu Jing , Bao Jiandong , Yu Huixin , Zhang Li
Published: December 2021

Background

Repeated radiotherapy brings limited benefits and significant side effects for differentiated thyroid cancer patients (DTC) with radioiodine refractory (RAIR). However, the prognostic role of preoperative thyroglobulin (pre‐Tg) in predicting RAIR is unclear.

Methods

In the present study, data were retrospectively reviewed from 5173 patients who underwent radiotherapy in the Jiangyuan Hospital from January 2006 to December 2020.

Results

A total of 1,102 patients with or without repeated radiotherapy were compared (repeated vs. single radiotherapy; n = 199 vs. n = 903). Pre‐Tg was significantly elevated in patients with repeated radiotherapy. After the classification of RAIR (non‐RAIR, n = 786 vs. RAIR, n = 90), elevated pre‐Tg was also correlated with RAIR after univariate and multivariate analyses. According to the receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, elevated pre‐Tg well predicted RAIR (AUC = 0.76, CI: 0.71–0.82, p < 0.0001). To control the selection bias, the propensity score matching was used. Pre‐Tg level was found to be an independent predictor of RAIR (p < 0.001, HR = 7.25, CI: 2.55–20.62).

Conclusion

Our results indicate that markedly elevated pre‐Tg level can be served as an independent predictor of RAIR‐DTC, which can guide a more precise treatment strategy and/or an active surveillance during surgery and follow‐ups.
Biodiversity promotes ecosystem functioning despite environmental change
Authors: Hong Pubin , Schmid Bernhard , De Laender Frederik , Eisenhauer Nico , Zhang Xingwen , Chen Haozhen , Craven Dylan , De Boeck Hans J. , Hautier Yann , Petchey Owen L. , Reich Peter B. , Steudel Bastian , Striebel Maren , Thakur Madhav P. , Wang Shaopeng
Published: December 2021

Three decades of research have demonstrated that biodiversity can promote the functioning of ecosystems. Yet, it is unclear whether the positive effects of biodiversity on ecosystem functioning will persist under various types of global environmental change drivers. We conducted a meta‐analysis of 46 factorial experiments manipulating both species richness and the environment to test how global change drivers (i.e. warming, drought, nutrient addition or CO2 enrichment) modulated the effect of biodiversity on multiple ecosystem functions across three taxonomic groups (microbes, phytoplankton and plants). We found that biodiversity increased ecosystem functioning in both ambient and manipulated environments, but often not to the same degree. In particular, biodiversity effects on ecosystem functioning were larger in stressful environments induced by global change drivers, indicating that high‐diversity communities were more resistant to environmental change. Using a subset of studies, we also found that the positive effects of biodiversity were mainly driven by interspecific complementarity and that these effects increased over time in both ambient and manipulated environments. Our findings support biodiversity conservation as a key strategy for sustainable ecosystem management in the face of global environmental change.
Development of a Family‐Based Nutrition Program Rooted in Food Parenting Literature
Authors: Chiong Reah , Gray Virginia B. , Roy Roudi N.
Published: December 2021

Family‐based nutrition programs have been used to support healthy eating; however, few programs emphasize parental roles in regard to food. The purpose of this study was to develop and test a family‐based curriculum with a parenting focus aimed at influencing child obesity risk. Qualitative data in the pilot implementation (cohort 1, n = 6 families with elementary‐aged children) suggested parent value for the following: positive messages, hands‐on learning, and group sharing. However, Family Nutrition and Physical Activity scores for cohorts 2–6 (n = 18 families) did not change significantly from pre‐ to postprogram. Future implementations will consider more robust ways of assessing change and recruiting participants at various stages of change.
Body Ideals of Undergraduate Women and the Proliferation of Social Media: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Markova Ivana , Azocar Cristina
Published: December 2021

The authors conducted a study to examine women’s body dissatisfaction, social comparison, and thin‐ideal internalization in relation to exposure to social networking sites. Additionally, women’s body dissatisfaction, social comparison, thin‐ideal internalization, and exposure to social networking sites were examined in relation to their ethnic backgrounds. A survey was completed by 725 females enrolled in undergraduate programs at California State University. Participants showed higher body dissatisfaction, social comparison, and thin‐ideal internalization if they were more exposed to social media sites. Differences were also found based on ethnic backgrounds; results showed that African American and Middle Eastern/Arab women’s body satisfaction was not as low as that of white and Asian women.
From quiescence to repair: C/EBPβ as a regulator of muscle stem cell function in health and disease
Authors: AlSudais Hamood , Wiper‐Bergeron Nadine
Published: December 2021

CCAAT/Enhancer Binding protein beta (C/EBPβ) is a transcriptional regulator involved in numerous physiological processes. Herein, we describe a role for C/EBPβ as a regulator of skeletal muscle stem cell function. In particular, C/EBPβ is expressed in muscle stem cells in healthy muscle where it inhibits myogenic differentiation. Downregulation of C/EBPβ expression at the protein and transcriptional level allows for differentiation. Persistence of C/EBPβ promotes stem cell self‐renewal and C/EBPβ expression is required for mitotic quiescence in this cell population. As a critical regulator of skeletal muscle homeostasis, C/EBPβ expression is stimulated in pathological conditions such as cancer cachexia, which perturbs muscle regeneration and promotes myofiber atrophy in the context of systemic inflammation. C/EBPβ is also an important regulator of cytokine expression and immune response genes, a mechanism by which it can influence muscle stem cell function. In this viewpoint, we describe a role for C/EBPβ in muscle stem cells and propose a functional intersection between C/EBPβ and NF‐kB action in the regulation of cancer cachexia.
Trophic interactions of vampire catfishes (Siluriformes: Vandelliinae) revealed by metabarcoding analysis of stomach contents
Authors: Bonato Karine Orlandi , Silva Priscilla Caroline , Carvalho Fernando Rogério , Malabarba Luiz Roberto
Published: December 2021

The trichomycterid catfishes of the subfamily Vandelliinae, the candirus, are parasite fishes that feed on blood. Therefore, the trophic interactions and dynamics of food webs in aquatic systems involving these catfishes cannot be determined through visual analysis of stomach contents, and the parasite–host interactions in this group of fishes are mostly unknown, except for a few anecdotal or experimental observations.

We used DNA analysis of stomach contents of these fluid‐feeding fishes to identify hosts and study the ecological interactions of the haematophagous species Paravandellia oxyptera. Specifically, we used sequences of the cytochrome oxidase I gene collected from the gut contents of the catfish and compared them to data from GenBank to identify the host species.

Our analysis indicated that examined specimens of Paravandellia oxyptera were exclusively fish parasites, and we identified genetic markers from eight host species from five families and three orders based on stomach contents.

Paravandellia oxyptera does not exhibit host specificity. Unlike mucophagous trichomycterids, host species of haematophagous P. oxyptera belong to different trophic levels, showing a wide spectrum of interactions in the food web. A comparison of the host species with the accompanying fauna collected during sampling allowed an association between host preference and host size. Barcode analysis of stomach contents further produced a secondary source of information on the diversity of fish in the study area.

This is the first study to identify host species of haematophagous parasitic fishes through the analysis of gut contents, demonstrating that specimens obtained in natural environments show much larger spectra of ecological interactions than previously reported from anecdotal or laboratory observations. This research is of broad interest, and exemplifies how DNA barcoding analysis of stomach contents provides new and relevant information on parasite/host interactions, with results not obtained by traditional methods of stomach content analysis.
Effects of consecutive dry and wet days on the forest–savanna boundary in north‐west South America
Authors: Hoyos Natalia , Correa‐Metrio Alex , Jaramillo Carlos , Villegas Juan Camilo , Escobar Jaime
Published: December 2021

Aim

Multiple abiotic and biotic factors, mainly the amount and seasonality of precipitation, fire regime, soil properties and species adaptation strategies, have been invoked to explain the existence of the tropical savanna–humid forest transition. We explored the rainfall variables that influence the probability of forest or savanna occurring in north‐west South America, specifically monthly precipitation and the mean and maximum duration of wet and dry spells, defined as the number of consecutive wet (dry) days.

Location

North‐west South America.

Time period

1980–2017.

Major taxa studied

Savanna and humid forest.

Methods

We used a set of logistic generalized linear models to assess the effect of multiple variables on the probability of occurrence of forest. Predictor variables included monthly precipitation, mean monthly dry and wet spells and maximum monthly dry and wet spells.

Results

The probability of forest (savanna) occurrence depends mostly on the average duration of dry and wet spells and the interaction between these two variables, whereas the effect of total monthly precipitation is marginal. Dry spell duration had the largest effect on the probability of forest occurrence, which decreased by 7.5% for each additional consecutive dry day. For wet spells, the probability of forest occurrence increased by 4.1% for each additional consecutive wet day. Our model shows that the savanna–forest transition takes place under an average combination of dry spells lasting 8–10 days and wet spells lasting 1–3 days during the dry season (December–February). This combination changes to dry spells lasting 1–3 days and wet spells lasting 4–6 days during the wet season (May–July).

Main conclusions

This study reveals the importance of using precipitation data with a fine temporal scale to investigate forest–savanna distribution and indicates the limited explanatory power of aggregated precipitation variables (e.g., monthly and annual values). Models that assess the effect of climate change should therefore incorporate precipitation variables acquired at finer temporal resolution.
Association of vision and hearing impairments with quality of life among older adults: Mediation by psychosocial factors
Authors: Phua June , Visaria Abhijit , Østbye Truls , Malhotra Rahul
Published: December 2021

Aim

Vision impairment (VI) and hearing impairment (HI), alone or in combination (dual sensory impairment [DSI]), are common in older adults. We determined (i) the association of vision and hearing, and of VI only, HI only and DSI, with three psychosocial variables (social network, loneliness, depressive symptoms) and with quality of life (QoL), and (ii) whether the considered psychosocial variables mediate the association of VI only, HI only and DSI with QoL among older adults.

Methods

Cross‐sectional survey data for 4077 older adults (≥60 years) from Singapore were analyzed. Those with self‐reported fair or poor vision and hearing were considered to have an impairment in that sense. Standard scales were used to assess the psychosocial variables and QoL. Regression and mediation models were used.

Results

Those with fair and poor vs. good, vision and hearing generally had poorer psychosocial outcomes and lower QoL. VI only, HI only and DSI were all associated with lower social network, more depressive symptoms and lower QoL. VI only and DSI were associated with more loneliness. Social network, loneliness and depressive symptoms partially mediated the association of VI only, HI only and DSI with QoL, with depressive symptoms being the strongest mediator.

Conclusions

VI and HI, particularly in combination, are associated with poorer psychosocial status and QoL among older adults. Older adults with VI or HI should be screened for depressive symptoms and social risks. Improving social network, loneliness and depressive symptoms among older adults with sensory impairments may enhance their QoL. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2022; 22: 56–62.
The production of difference and “becoming Black”: The experiences of female Nigerian doctors and nurses working in the National Health Service
Authors: Edeh Nkechinyelu Ann , Riley Sarah , Kokot‐Blamey Patrizia
Published: December 2021

In this article, we combine theory from cultural theorist Stuart Hall with phenomenological psychology to analyze the experiences of female Nigerian doctors and nurses working in the National Health Service (NHS). Drawing on 32 interviews with 24 nurses and doctors, our empirical analysis demonstrates how encounters with patients, colleagues and the structures of the NHS collapsed these health care professionals' identities into a single category of Black that produced them as racially different and inferior – a process we describe as “becoming Black.” In this analysis, we emphasize the utility of Hall's legacy to organizational analyses of experience, and the importance of centering race in such works, thereby adding to the wider literature on discrimination and identity. Hall's contributions offer us a framework for conceptualizing identity as in process, as arising in dialog with another, and framed in a historical context shaped by colonialism. Through a phenomenological lens we explore these identity processes, drawing out racialized experiences, and demonstrating “becoming Black” as a form of symbolic violence with real effects related to psychological distress and workplace precarity.
Codesigning person‐centred quality indicators with diverse communities: A qualitative patient engagement study
Authors: Manalili Kimberly , Siad Fartoon M. , Antonio Marichu , Lashewicz Bonnie , Santana Maria J.
Published: December 2021

Introduction

Effective engagement of underrepresented communities in health research and policy remains a challenge due to barriers that hinder participation. Our study had two objectives: (1) identify themes of person‐centred care (PCC) from perspectives of diverse patients/caregivers that would inform the development of person‐centred quality indicators (PC‐QIs) for evaluating the quality of PCC and initiatives to improve PCC and (2) explore innovative participatory approaches to engage ethnocultural communities in qualitative research.

Methods

Drawing on participatory action research methods, we partnered with a community‐based organization to train six ‘Community Brokers’ from the Chinese, Filipino, South Asian, Latino‐Hispanic, East African and Syrian communities, who were engaged throughout the study. We also partnered with the provincial health organization to engage their Patient and Family Advisory, who represented further aspects of diversity. We conducted focus group discussions with patients/caregivers to obtain their perspectives on their values, preferences and needs regarding PCC. We identified themes through our study and engaged provincial stakeholders to prioritize these themes for informing the development of PC‐QIs and codesign initiatives for improving PCC.

Results

Eight focus groups were conducted with 66 diverse participants. Ethnocultural communities highlighted themes related to access and cost of care, language barriers and culture, while the Patient and Family Advisory emphasized patient and caregiver engagement. Together with provincial stakeholders, initiatives were identified to improve PCC, such as codesigning innovative models of training and evaluation of healthcare providers.

Conclusion

Incorporating patient and community voices requires addressing issues related to equity and understanding barriers to effective and meaningful engagement.

Patient or Public Contribution

Patient and public engagement was central to our research study. This included partnership with a community‐based organization, with a broad network of ethnocultural communities, as well as the provincial health service delivery organization, who both facilitated the ongoing engagement of diverse patients/caregiver communities throughout our study including designing the study, recruiting participants, collecting and organizing data, interpreting findings and mobilizing knowledge. Drawing from participatory action research methods, patients and the public were involved in the codesign of the PC‐QIs and initiatives to improve PCC in the province based on the findings from our study.
How paediatric departments in Sweden facilitate giving children a voice on their experiences of healthcare: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Nordlind Anna , Sundqvist Ann‐Sofie , Anderzén‐Carlsson Agneta , Almblad Ann‐Charlotte , Ängeby Karin
Published: December 2021

Background

In January 2020, the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child was incorporated into Swedish law. According to Swedish regulations, patients are to be given the opportunity to participate in quality improvement. Sometimes, the patients are children who have the right to be heard on matters concerning them, such as their experience of a hospital visit.

Objective

This study aimed to describe how Swedish paediatric departments facilitate children's voices on their healthcare experiences and how their perspectives are taken into account in quality improvement work.

Methods

This study has a descriptive cross‐sectional design. Data were collected using a study‐specific survey sent by e‐mail to all the heads of the paediatric departments in Sweden, with both inpatient and outpatient care. The response rate was 74% (28 of 38 departments).

Results

The results demonstrated a variation in questionnaires used and to whom they were targeted; less than half of the participating departments reported having had questionnaires aimed at children. The results also indicated a major variation in other working methods used to allow children to voice their experiences in Swedish paediatric departments. The results indicate that the national co‐ordination in facilitating the children's rights to be heard on their experiences in healthcare organisations can be improved.

Conclusion

Further research is required to ascertain which method is the most practically effective in paediatric departments, in what way children prefer to be heard regarding their experience of and perspectives on healthcare, and what questions need to be asked. A validated national patient‐reported experience measure developed with and aimed at children could provide them with equal opportunities to voice their experiences in healthcare, regardless of their diagnoses or which paediatric department they visit.