bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Eco-evolutionary dynamics lead to functionally robust and redundant communities
Authors: Fant Lorenzo , Macocco Iuri , Grilli Jacopo
Published: April 2021

Microbial communities are functionally stable and taxonomically variable: species abundances fluctuate over time and space, while the functional composition is robust and reproducible. These observations imply functional redundancy: the same function is performed by many species, so that one may assemble communities with different species but the same functional composition. The clarity of this observation does not parallel with a theoretical understanding of its origin. Here we study the eco-evolutionary dynamics of communities interacting through competition and cross-feeding. We show that the eco-evolutionary trajectories rapidly converge to a “functional attractor”, characterized by a functional composition uniquely determined by environmental conditions. The taxonomic composition instead follows non-reproducible dynamics, constrained by the conservation of the functional composition. Our framework provides a deep theoretical foundation to the empirical observations of functional robustness and redundancy.
A β-secretase modulator decreases Tau pathology and preserves short-term memory in a mouse model of neurofibrillary degeneration
Authors: Tautou Marie , Eddarkaoui Sabiha , Descamps Florian , Larchanché Paul-Emmanuel , Dumoulin Mélanie , Lamarre Chloé , Blum David , Buée Luc , Melnyk Patricia , Sergeant Nicolas
Published: April 2021

A structure-activity relationship has enabled us to identify two molecules, MAGS02-14 and PEL24-199, sharing a β-secretase modulatory effect but having or not a lysosomotropic activity, respectively. More importantly, MAGS02-14 and PEL24-199 only differ from each other by a single nitrogen atom. However, which of the lysosomotropic and/or β-secretase modulating activities is necessary for the pharmacological effectin vivoremains ill-defined. To address this question, the THY-Tau22 transgenic model of NFD was treated for 6 weeks in a curative paradigm and short-term memory, Tau burden, and inflammatory processes were studied. PEL24-199, possessing only the β-secretase modulatory activity, was shown to restore the short-term memory and to reduce NFD. This effect was associated with reduced phosphorylation of Tau, increased phosphatase expression, and a decrease of astrogliosis. Our results therefore suggest that the lysosomotropic activity may be dispensable for the effect on both Aβ and Tau pathologies.
Transcriptomic analysis of resistant and susceptible responses in a new model root-knot nematode infection system usingSolanum torvumandMeloidogyne arenaria
Authors: Sato Kazuki , Uehara Taketo , Holbein Julia , Sasaki-Sekimoto Yuko , Gan Pamela , Bino Takahiro , Yamaguchi Katsushi , Ichihashi Yasunori , Maki Noriko , Shigenobu Shuji , Ohta Hiroyuki , Franke Rochus B. , Siddique Shahid , Grundler Florian M. W. , Suzuki Takamasa , Kadota Yasuhiro , Shirasu Ken
Published: April 2021

Root-knot nematodes (RKNs) are among the most devastating pests in agriculture.Solanum torvumSw. (turkey berry) has been used as a rootstock for eggplant (aubergine) cultivation because of its resistance to RKNs, includingMeloidogyne incognitaandM. arenaria. We previously found that a pathotype ofM. arenaria, A2-J, is able to infect and propagate inS. torvum. In vitroinfection assays showed thatS. torvuminduces the accumulation of brown pigments during avirulent pathotype A2-O infection, but not during virulent A2-J infection. This experimental system is advantageous because resistant and susceptible responses can be distinguished within a few days, and because a single plant genome can yield information about both resistant and susceptible responses. Comparative RNA-sequencing analysis ofS. torvuminoculated with A2-J and A2-O at early stages of infection was used to parse the specific resistance and susceptible responses. Infection with A2-J did not induce statistically significant changes in gene expression within one day post-inoculation (DPI), but afterward, A2-J specifically induced the expression of chalcone synthase, spermidine synthase, and genes related to cell wall modification and transmembrane transport. Infection with A2-O rapidly induced the expression of genes encoding class III peroxidases, sesquiterpene synthases, and fatty acid desaturases at 1 DPI, followed by genes involved in defense, hormone signaling, and the biosynthesis of lignin at 3 DPI. Both isolates induced the expression of suberin biosynthetic genes, which may be triggered by wounding during nematode infection. Histochemical analysis revealed that A2-O, but not A2-J, induced lignin accumulation at the root tip, suggesting that physical reinforcement of cell walls with lignin is an important defense response against nematodes. TheS. torvum-RKN system can provide a molecular basis for understanding plant-nematode interactions.
Endosomal cargo recycling mediated by Gpa1 and Phosphatidylinositol-3-Kinase is inhibited by glucose starvation
Authors: Laidlaw Kamilla ME. , Paine Katherine M. , Bisinski Daniel D. , Calder Grant , Hogg Karen , Ahmed Sophia , James Sally , O’Toole Peter J. , MacDonald Chris
Published: April 2021

Cell surface protein trafficking is regulated in response to nutrient availability, with multiple pathways directing surface membrane proteins to the lysosome for degradation in response to suboptimal extracellular nutrients. Internalised protein and lipid cargoes recycle back to the surface efficiently in glucose replete conditions, but this trafficking is attenuated following glucose starvation. We find cells with either reduced or hyperactive phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) activity are defective for recycling. Furthermore, we find the yeast Gα subunit Gpa1, an endosomal PI3K effector, is required for surface recycling of cargoes. Following glucose starvation, mRNA and protein levels of a distinct Gα subunit Gpa2 are elevated following nuclear translocation of Mig1, which inhibits recycling of various cargoes. As Gpa1 and Gpa2 interact at the surface where Gpa2 concentrates during glucose starvation, we propose this disrupts PI3K activity required for recycling, potentially diverting Gpa1 to the surface and interfering with its endosomal role in recycling. In support of this model, glucose starvation and over-expression of Gpa2 alters PI3K endosomal phosphoinositide production. Glucose deprivation therefore triggers a survival mechanism to increase retention of surface cargoes in endosomes and promote their lysosomal degradation.
Constrained flexibility of parental cooperation limits evolutionary responses to harsh conditions
Authors: Moss J.B. , Moore A.J.
Published: April 2021

Parental care is predicted to evolve to mitigate harsh environments, thus adaptive plasticity of care may be an important response to climate change. In biparental species, fitness costs may be reduced with plasticity of behavior among partners. We investigated this prediction with the burying beetle,Nicrophorus orbicollis, by exposing them to contrasting benign and harsh thermal environments. We found strong fitness costs under the harsh environment, but rather than select for more care, visualized selection was stabilizing. Examining different components of care revealed positive directional selection gradients for direct care and strong stabilizing selection gradients for indirect care, resulting in constrained evolutionary responses. Further, because males and females did not coordinate their investments, the potential for adaptive plasticity was not enhanced under biparental care. Females cared at capacity with or without male partners, while males with partners reduced direct care but maintained indirect care levels. Decision rules were not altered in different environments, suggesting no shift from sexual conflict to cooperation. We suggest that the potential for parenting to ameliorate the effects of our climate crisis may depend on the sex-specific evolutionary drivers of parental care, and that this may be best reflected in components of care.
Tuning Cell-free Composition Controls the Time-delay, Dynamics, and Productivity of TX-TL Expression
Authors: Vezeau Grace E. , Salis Howard M.
Published: April 2021

The composition of TX-TL cell-free expression systems are adjusted by adding macromolecular crowding agents and salts. However, the effects of these cosolutes on the dynamics of individual gene expression processes have not been systematically quantified. Here, we carry out kinetic mRNA and protein level measurements on libraries of genetic constructs using the common cosolutes PEG-8000, Ficoll-400, and magnesium glutamate. By combining these measurements with biophysical modeling, we show that cosolutes have differing effects on transcription initiation, translation initiation, and translation elongation rates with trade-offs between time-delays, expression tunability, and maximum expression productivity. We also confirm that biophysical models can predict translation initiation rates in TX-TL usingE. colilysate. We discuss how cosolute composition can be tuned to maximize performance across different cell-free applications, including biosensing, diagnostics, and biomanufacturing.
A deterministic semi-infinite global optimization method to design slotless permanent magnet machines
Authors: Amrouchi Zahia , Messine Frederic , Nadal Clement , Ouanes Mohand
Published: April 2021

Purpose

In this work, a method to design a slotless permanent magnet machine (SPMM) based on the joint use of an analytical model and deterministic global optimization algorithms is addressed. The purpose of this study is to propose to include torque ripples as an extra constraint in the optimization phase involving de facto the study of a semi-infinite optimization problem.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the use of a well-known analytical model describing the electromagnetic behavior of an SPMM, this analytical model has been supplemented by the calculus of the dynamic torque and its ripples to carry out a more accurate optimized sizing method of such an electromechanical converter. As a consequence, the calculated torque depends on a continuous variable, namely, the rotor angular position, resulting in the definition of a semi-infinite optimization problem. The way to solve this kind of semi-infinite problem by discretizing the rotor angular position by using a deterministic global optimization solver, that is to say COUENNE, via the AMPL modeling language is addressed.

Findings

In this study, the proposed approach is validated on some numerical tests based on the minimization of the magnet volume. Efficient global optimal solutions with torque ripples about 5% (instead of 30%) can be so obtained.

Research limitations/implications

The analytical model does not use results from the solution of two-dimensional field equations. A strong assumption is put forward to approximate the distribution of the magnetic flux density in the air gap of the SPMM.

Originality/value

The problem to design an SPMM can be efficiently formulated as a semi-infinite global optimization problem. This kind of optimization problems are hard to solve because they involve an infinity of constraints (coming from a constraint on the torque ripple). The authors show in this paper that by using analytical models, a discretization method and a deterministic global optimization code COUENNE, this problem is efficiently tackled. Some numerical results show that the deterministic global solution of the design can be reached even if the step of discretization is small.
Appraisals matter: relationships between entrepreneurs' stress appraisals and venture-based outcomes
Authors: Bennett Andrew A. , Lanivich Stephen E. , Moeini Gharagozloo M. Mahdi , Akbulut Yusuf
Published: April 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate how stress appraisals (i.e. cognitive evaluations) influence entrepreneurial outcomes like expected financial well-being, life satisfaction, business growth and exit intentions.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses a mixed-methods approach to provide methodological triangulation by analyzing data from two independent samples (qualitative data from 100 entrepreneurs in Study 1; quantitative regression analysis of a sample of 142 entrepreneurs in Study 2).

Findings

Results from the qualitative exploration (Study 1) show that entrepreneurs appraised venture-related stressors differently as a challenge, threat or hindrance. The quantitative study (Study 2) found that challenge stress appraisals were positively related to expected financial well-being and expected life satisfaction, threat stress appraisals were negatively related to expected financial well-being and positively related to business exit intentions, and hindrance stress appraisals were positively related to expected business growth and negatively related to business exit intentions.

Originality/value

Most entrepreneurship research focuses on stressors rather than appraisals of the stressor. Drawing upon the transactional theory of stress that explains how stress appraisals are an important consideration for understanding the stress process, these two studies showed that stress appraisals differ for each entrepreneur (Study 1) and that stress appraisals explain more variance in many entrepreneurial outcomes than stressors (Study 2).
Towards complexity-sensitive book metrics for scholarly monographs in national databases for research output
Authors: Sīle Linda , Guns Raf , Zuccala Alesia A. , Engels Tim C.E.
Published: April 2021

Purpose

This study investigates an approach to book metrics for research evaluation that takes into account the complexity of scholarly monographs. This approach is based on work sets – unique scholarly works and their within-work related bibliographic entities – for scholarly monographs in national databases for research output.

Design/methodology/approach

This study examines bibliographic records on scholarly monographs acquired from four European databases (VABB in Flanders, Belgium; CROSBI in Croatia; CRISTIN in Norway; COBISS in Slovenia). Following a data enrichment process using metadata from OCLC WorldCat and Amazon Goodreads, the authors identify work sets and the corresponding ISBNs. Next, on the basis of the number of ISBNs per work set and the presence in WorldCat, they design a typology of scholarly monographs: Globally visible single-expression works, Globally visible multi-expression works, Miscellaneous and Globally invisible works.

Findings

The findings show that the concept “work set” and the proposed typology can aid the identification of influential scholarly monographs in the social sciences and humanities (i.e. the Globally visible multi-expression works).

Practical implications

In light of the findings, the authors outline requirements for the bibliographic control of scholarly monographs in national databases for research output that facilitate the use of the approach proposed here.

Originality/value

The authors use insights from library and information science (LIS) to construct complexity-sensitive book metrics. In doing so, the authors, on the one hand, propose a solution to a problem in research evaluation and, on the other hand, bring to attention the need for a dialogue between LIS and neighbouring communities that work with bibliographic data.
Predictors of recycling behavior: a survey-based study in the city of Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
Authors: AlHaj Ali Suhib , Kawaf Lutfi , Masadeh Islam , Saffarini Zaineh , Abdullah Reem , Barqawi Hiba
Published: April 2021

Purpose

Sharjah is the United Arab Emirates' (UAE) third largest city and third highest waste producer (9.9% of ˜26 million in 2012). A total of about ˜$1bn has been invested into programs pursuing zero-landfill waste by 100% recycling. Besides infrastructure, assessing knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) are needed for effective waste management. The purpose of this study is to examine recycling KAP in Sharjah.

Design/methodology/approach

A cross-sectional study, using pilot-tested questionnaires, was conducted among public venues during March and April 2016. A total of 400 residents (18–55 years) were selected via convenience sampling. SPSS-22 was used for analysis.

Findings

Mean age [28 years (±9.4)] with 56.5% females. Knowledge level [51.8% (±18.1)]; students reported the highest (53.7%, p = 0.007, 95% CI [51.4–56.1]). 22.9% knew recycling benefits, 31.2% knew how to correctly prepare items. Attitude level 92.6% (±16.5); 51.1% and 46.8% would recycle more with a financial reward or penalty, respectively. 70.4% reported practicing recycling; 16.0% always recycle. Logistic regression model indicated knowledge (OR = 1.013, 95% CI [1.001–1.025]) and attitude (OR = 1.014, 95% CI [1.001–1.028]) as the only significant predictors of recycling practice.

Originality/value

This is the first study measuring recycling KAP in the UAE. Results could be starting points for improved local waste management and subsequently reduced public health concerns.
The role of leadership and communication in internal city branding
Authors: Piehler Rico , Roessler Ayla , Burmann Christoph
Published: April 2021

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the brand-oriented leadership of a city’s mayor and city online brand communication as brand management-related antecedents of residents’ city brand commitment. It thus examines if city brand managers can apply internal branding concepts from the corporate branding domain in a city branding context.

Design/methodology/approach

The relationships between the brand management-related antecedents and the internal city branding (ICB) objective are tested through structural equation modeling using cross-sectional survey data of 414 residents of a German city.

Findings

Both the brand-oriented leadership of the mayor in terms of acting as a role model by living the city brand and its identity and by showing commitment to the brand and the city’s online brand communication in terms of its quality have positive effects on residents’ city brand commitment. Moderation analyses reveal no significant differences between the path estimates for age, place of birth, duration of residency and education. However, the results differ significantly for gender.

Research limitations/implications

As this study’s sample is limited to only one city in Germany, further research needs to investigate the relationships in different cities and other countries to ensure the generalizability of the results. Future studies might also include other aspects of city brand communication, as well as cognitive and behavioural ICB objectives.

Practical implications

To increase residents’ city brand commitment, city brand managers should ensure that a city’s online brand communication is adequate, complete, credible, useful and clear. Furthermore, through creating awareness for the importance of a mayor’s brand-oriented leadership and through educating and training the mayor to engage in this specific form of brand-oriented transformational leadership, city brand managers can increase residents’ emotional attachment with the city brand.

Originality/value

This study integrates internal branding research from the corporate branding domain with place and city branding research. It confirms that certain aspects of internal branding (i.e. brand-oriented leadership, brand communication and brand commitment) are applicable not only in the corporate branding domain but also in other branding contexts such as city branding if adapted properly.
Strategy and what it means to be strategic: redefining strategic, operational, and tactical decisions
Authors: Khalifa Azaddin Salem
Published: April 2021

Purpose

The confusion over what counts as “strategic” is widely acknowledged to be a problem for both research and practice. The paper aims to develop a robust definition of “strategic decisions” and a classifying tool that distinguishes them from grand tactical, tactical, and other organizational decisions.

Design/methodology/approach

An extensive literature review focused on the leading journals is carried out. Articles having “strategic decision” in the abstract are retrieved from EBSCO Host and ProQuest One Academic databases. Definitions of “strategic decisions” are critically assessed and classified to form the trigger and basis of the development of new definition.

Findings

The literature review identifies five approaches by which strategic decisions are defined, and their limitations are exposed. The proposed definitions of “strategic,” grand tactical, and tactical decisions, and the novel classification tree, used to distinguish those decisions, are shown to be more accurate and robust than those previously offered in the literature.

Originality/value

New definitions of “strategic,” grand tactical, and tactical decisions are offered; and a new classifying tool is developed.
A current review of structure, functional properties, and industrial applications of pulse starches for value‐added utilization
Authors: Ren Yikai , Yuan Tommy Z. , Chigwedere Claire Maria , Ai Yongfeng
Published: April 2021

Pulse crops have received growing attention from the agri‐food sector because they can provide advantageous health benefits and offer a promising source of starch and protein. Pea, lentil, and faba bean are the three leading pulse crops utilized for extracting protein concentrate/isolate in food industry, which simultaneously generates a rising volume of pulse starch as a co‐product. Pulse starch can be fractionated from seeds using dry and wet methods. Compared with most commercial starches, pea, lentil, and faba bean starches have relatively high amylose contents, longer amylopectin branch chains, and characteristic C‐type polymorphic arrangement in the granules. The described molecular and granular structures of the pulse starches impart unique functional attributes, including high final viscosity during pasting, strong gelling property, and relatively low digestibility in a granular form. Starch isolated from wrinkled pea—a high‐amylose mutant of this pulse crop—possesses an even higher amylose content and longer branch chains of amylopectin than smooth pea, lentil, and faba bean starches, which make the physicochemical properties and digestibility of the former distinctively different from those of common pulse starches. The special functional properties of pulse starches promote their applications in food, feed, bioplastic and other industrial products, which can be further expanded by modifying them through chemical, physical and/or enzymatic approaches. Future research directions to increase the fractionation efficiency, improve the physicochemical properties, and enhance the industrial utilization of pulse starches have also been proposed. The comprehensive information covered in this review will be beneficial for the pulse industry to develop effective strategies to generate value from pulse starch.
Modification of pulse proteins for improved functionality and flavor profile: A comprehensive review
Authors: Zha Fengchao , Rao Jiajia , Chen Bingcan
Published: April 2021

Consumers’ preference to have a healthy eating pattern has led to an increasing demand for more nutrient‐dense and healthier plant‐based foods. Pulse proteins are exceptional quality ingredients with potential nutritional benefits, and might act as health‐promoting agents for addressing the new‐generation foods. However, the utilization of pulse protein in foods has been hampered by its relatively poor functionality and unpleasant flavor. Protein structure modification has been proved to be a useful means to improve the functionality and flavor profile of pulse protein. This paper begins with a brief introduction of hierarchical structure of pulse protein materials to better understand the structure characteristics. A comprehensive review is presented on the current techniques including chemical and enzymatic modifications and molecular breeding on pulse protein structure and functionality/flavor. The mechanism and the limitations and the toxicological concerns of these approaches are discussed. We conclude that understanding protein structure‒functionality relationship is extremely valuable in tailoring proteins for specific functional outcomes and expanding the availability of pulse proteins. Furthermore, selective protein modification is a valuable in‐depth toolkit for generating novel protein constructs with preferable functional attributes and flavor profiles. Innovative structure modification with special focus on the molecular basis for the exquisite protein designs is a pillar of pulse protein access to the desired functionality.
Classification and Diagenetic Characteristics of the Cretaceous Sandstones in the Southern Bredasdorp Basin, Offshore South Africa
Authors: BAIYEGUNHI Temitope Love , LIU Kuiwu , GWAVAVA Oswald , BAIYEGUNHI Christopher
Published: April 2021

A systematic petrographic and geochemical studies of 92 representative sandstone samples from exploration wells E‐AH1, E‐AJ1, E‐BA1, E‐BB1 and E‐D3 in the southern part of the Bredasdorp Basin was undertaken to classify the sandstones as well as unravel the main diagenetic processes and their time relations. Petrographic study shows that the sandstones are largely subarkosic arenite and arkosic litharenite, which have underwent series of diagenetic processes as a result burial, rifting and subsequent uplift. The main diagenetic processes that have affected the reservoir properties of the sandstones are cementation by authigenic clay, carbonate and silica, growth of authigenic glauconite, dissolution of minerals and load compaction. The major diagenetic processes reducing the porosity are calcite cementation in the subarkosic arenite, and compaction and quartz cementation in arkosic litharenite. On the other hand, the formation of secondary porosity due to the partial to complete dissolution of early calcite cement, feldspars and minor grain fracturing has improved the reservoir property of the sandstone to some extent. The clay minerals in the sandstones commonly acts as pore choking cement, which reduces porosity. In general, there is no particular diagenetic process that exclusively controls the type or form of porosity evolution in the sandstones.
Drinking Motives and Drinking Consequences across Days: Differences and Similarities between Moderate, Binge, and High‐Intensity Drinking
Authors: Patrick Megan E. , Terry‐McElrath Yvonne M.
Published: April 2021

Background

The current study examined the extent to which within‐person variation in drinking motives differentiates moderate, binge, and high‐intensity drinking; and independent associations of motives and drinking intensity with alcohol use consequences in a sample of young adult drinkers from across the United States.

Methods

Participants were past 30‐day drinkers in the U.S. nationally representative Monitoring the Future 12th grade sample in 2018, who also reported alcohol use during a 14‐day data collection burst 1 year later (N = 484 people, mean age 19.3 [SD 0.40], 43% female; N = 1042 drinking days) as part of the Young Adult Daily Life Study in 2019. Weighted multilevel modeling estimated within‐ and between‐person associations of drinking motives, drinking intensity (i.e., moderate [women 1–3, men 1–4 drinks], binge [women 4–7, men 5–9 drinks], and high‐intensity drinking [women 8+, men 10+ drinks]), and number of positive and negative alcohol consequences.

Results

On days participants reported greater enhancement and social motives, they were more likely to engage in high‐intensity (vs. binge) drinking and binge (vs. moderate) drinking and experience more positive alcohol consequences. On days participants reported greater enhancement and coping motives, they experienced more negative alcohol consequences. Binge (vs. moderate) drinking on a given day was associated with more positive and negative alcohol consequences; high‐intensity (vs. binge) drinking on a given day was associated with more negative alcohol consequences that day. Moderation analyses indicated that social motives were associated with high‐intensity (vs. binge) drinking only among college students.

Conclusions

Stronger drinking motives on a given day were associated with drinking intensity (enhancement and social motives) and negative consequences (enhancement and coping). High‐intensity (vs. binge or moderate) drinking was associated with more negative consequences but not more positive consequences. These results underscore that high‐intensity drinking and consequences vary across days and time‐varying, occasion‐specific risks such as current motivational context are appropriate targets for intervention.
The impact of financial deprivation on prosocial behaviour: Comparing the roles of face‐saving consciousness versus status/success‐gaining intention
Authors: Xie Siyi , Shi Bing
Published: April 2021

This research investigates the mechanism (Face‐saving consciousness versus status/success‐gaining intention) underlying the effect of financial deprivation on prosocial behaviour among participants in China. A total of three studies were conducted. Findings across the three studies reveal that individuals who were financially deprived (versus privileged) acted in a more prosocial manner. Findings in Studies 1–2 indicate that Face‐saving consciousness, but not status/success‐gaining intention, suitably accounted for the impact of financial deprivation on prosocial behaviour. Furthermore, such an increase in prosocial behaviour was found in a public context, but diminished in a private context, in Study 3. These findings demonstrate the importance of Face‐saving consciousness in the effect of financial deprivation among Chinese.
Decreasing trend and changing indications of hysterectomy in Finland
Authors: Hakkarainen Jenni , Nevala Aapeli , Tomás Eija , Nieminen Kari , Malila Nea , Pitkäniemi Janne , Auranen Annika
Published: April 2021

Introduction

Hysterectomy has been one of the most common surgical procedures in women in Finland. We studied the population‐based trends of hysterectomy and its indications from 1986 to 2017.

Material and methods

A retrospective population‐based cohort was created from the Care Register for Health Care by identifying women who had a hysterectomy from 1986 to 2017 and calculating the number of women from the Digital and Population Data Services Agency. We estimated the number and incidence of hysterectomy by period and age as well as by indication. We considered the primary diagnosis at the time of surgery as the indication of hysterectomy.

Results

The number of hysterectomies increased from 7492 procedures in 1986 to 12 404 procedures in 1998, and reduced substantially after that to 5971 procedures in 2017, the turning point being in 1999. The incidence rate of hysterectomy has decreased on average by 2.5% annually from 432.6 per 100 000 women in 1998–2001 to 224.5 per 100 000 women in 2014–2017. The median age at the time of hysterectomy has increased from 51 years in 1998–2001 to 55 years in 2014–2017. The cumulative burden of hysterectomy by age of 60 years has nearly halved from the first 4‐year period (23%) to the last (12%). After 2010, the most common indication has been genital prolapse and incontinence, whereas earlier it was uterine fibroids.

Conclusions

The number and incidence of hysterectomies have fluctuated during the observation period 1986–2017 and decreased considerably during the past 17 years in Finland. This is probably a result of the availability of hormonal and other conservative treatment options for bleeding disorders and uterine fibroids. As hysterectomy practically removes the risk for endometrial cancer, the change in hysterectomy incidence over time emphasizes the importance of correcting endometrial cancer incidence according to hysterectomy incidence.
Debate: Quantity of impatient beds and quality of child psychiatric and psychotherapeutic care provision – a German perspective
Authors: Boege Isabel , Fegert Joerg M.
Published: April 2021

Provision of care for children with mental health disorders or behavioural difficulties differs from country to country. Historically, Germany has the highest number of inpatient beds throughout Europe (64 inpatient beds per 100,000 young people). In addition, nearly 146 departments for child and adolescent psychiatry offer day‐care beds as well as ambulatory care. A high number of resident child and adolescent psychiatrists/psychotherapists (more than 12,000 professionals) complement provision of care in the different regions of Germany. Yet, only 50% of children and adolescents with mental health problems receive the treatment they need. Barriers to care – for example lack of transportation, fear of stigmatization, long distances in rural regions or fear of long hospital inpatient stays – keep families from presenting their child/adolescent to the relevant institutions. Recently, a new treatment module: StäB, an intensive daily home treatment, delivered by a multiprofessional team, has been added to the portfolio of treatment options in Germany. This closes the gap between highly intensive inpatient care and low‐frequency outpatient treatment, allowing a continuum of care in intensity and frequency within the treatment alternatives.
Sustained and targeted delivery of siRNA/DP7‐C nanoparticles from injectable thermosensitive hydrogel for hepatocellular carcinoma therapy
Authors: Zhao Binyan , Zhou Bailing , Shi Kun , Zhang Rui , Dong Chunyan , Xie Daoyuan , Tang Lin , Tian Yaomei , Qian Zhiyong , Yang Li
Published: April 2021

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most lethal cancers in humans. The inhibition of peptidyl‐prolyl cis/trans isomerase (Pin1) gene expression may have great potential in the treatment of HCC. N‐Acetylgalactosamine (GalNAc) was used to target the liver. Cholesterol‐modified antimicrobial peptide DP7 (DP7‐C) acts as a carrier, the GalNAc‐siRNA/DP7‐C complex increases the uptake of GalNAc‐siRNA and the escape of endosomes in hepatocytes. In addition, DP7‐C nanoparticles and hydrogel‐assisted GalNAc‐Pin1 siRNA delivery can effectively enhance the stability and prolong the silencing effects of Pin1 siRNA. In an orthotopic liver cancer model, the GalNAc‐Pin1 siRNA/DP7‐C/hydrogel complex can potentially regulate Pin1 expression in hepatocellular carcinoma cells and effectively inhibit tumor progression. Our study proves that Pin1 siRNA is an efficient method for the treatment of HCC and provides a sustainable and effective drug delivery system for the suppression of liver cancer.
How does working in pandemic units affect the risk of occupational hand eczema in healthcare workers during the coronavirus disease‐2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic: A comparative analysis with nonpandemic units
Authors: Erdem Yasemin , Inal Sena , Sivaz Onur , Copur Sevkiye , Boluk Kubra N. , Ugurer Ece , Kaya Hazel E. , Gulsunay Ilayda E. , Sekerlisoy Gul , Vural Osman , Altunay Ilknur K. , Aksu Çerman Aslı , Özkaya Esen
Published: April 2021

Background

Hand eczema (HE) has increased among healthcare workers (HCWs) working in coronavirus disease‐2019 (COVID‐19) units, and was associated with increased hand hygiene practices.

Objectives

To compare the prevalence and clinical characteristics of HE, and hand hygiene practices in HCWs working in COVID‐19 and non‐COVID‐19 units.

Methods

A total of 244 HCWs working in COVID‐19 (n = 118) and non‐COVID‐19 patient care units (n = 126) were examined by dermatologists with regard to demographic parameters and hand hygiene practices. The COVID‐19 and non‐COVID‐19 groups were matched at a 1:1 ratio according to age, atopy, and generalized dry skin.

Results

HE was more frequent in the COVID‐19 group (48.3% vs 12.7%, P < .001), whereas working years (P < .05) and additional housework at home (P < .001) were longer in the non‐COVID‐19 group. After the development of HE, moisturizing creams were reported to be more frequently used in the COVID group (P < .001). Topical corticosteroids were used in a minority (40% in the COVID group and 26.7% in the non‐COVID group).

Conclusions

HCWs in COVID‐19 units developed HE more frequently. A majority increased the frequency of moisturizer use, instead of using topical corticosteroids, after the development of HE for the purpose of treating eczema. New approaches are needed for the prevention and management of HE in HCWs, especially by facilitating access to dermatologists.
Transplant administration—A survey of the roles and responsibilities of kidney and pancreas medical directors of US transplant centers
Authors: Singh Neeraj , Friedewald John , Bloom Roy , Dadhania Darshana , Parsons Ronald F. , Kaplan Bruce , Samaniego Millie , Qazi Yasir , Doshi Mona , McNatt Gwen , Naseer Muhammad Saad , Pesavento Todd , Wiseman Alexander
Published: April 2021

The current American Society of Transplantation (AST) accredited transplant fellowship programs in the United States provide no structured formal training in leadership and administration which is essential for successfully running a transplant program. We conducted a survey of medical directors of active adult kidney and kidney‐pancreas transplant programs in the United States about their demographics, training pathways, and roles and responsibilities. The survey was emailed to 183 medical directors, and 123 (67.2%) completed the survey. A majority of respondents were older than 50 years (61%), males (80%), and holding that position for more than 10 years (47%). Only 51% of current medical directors had taken that position after completing a one‐year transplant fellowship, and 58% took on the role with no prior administrative or leadership experience. The medical directors reported spending a median 50%–75% of time in clinical responsibilities, 25%–50% of time in administration, and 0%–25% time in research. The survey also captured various administrative roles of medical directors vis‐à‐vis other transplant leaders. The study, designed to be the starting point of an improvement initiative of the AST, provided important insight into the demographics, training pathways, roles and responsibilities, job satisfaction, education needs, and training gaps of current medical directors.
A cognitive behavioural model of the bidirectional relationship between disordered eating and diabetes self care in people with type 1 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Harrison Amy , Zaremba Natalie , Brown Jennie , Allan Jacqueline , Konstantara Emmanouela , Hopkins David , Treasure Janet , Ismail Khalida , Stadler Marietta
Published: April 2021

Aims

This qualitative study aimed to develop the first cognitive behavioural therapy model outlining the development and maintenance of disordered eating in type 1 diabetes and report on recovery strategies and resilience factors to improve previous theoretical models of type 1 diabetes and disordered eating.

Methods

Twenty‐three women (n = 9 with type 1 diabetes and disordered eating,n = 5 with type 1 diabetes recovering from disordered eating, andn = 9 with type 1 diabetes without disordered eating) participated in semi‐structured interviews. Data were analysed using grounded theory and individual cognitive–behavioural formulations were developed for each participant to inform the development/maintenance and resilience models.

Results

The development/maintenance model summarises commonly experienced vicious cycles of thoughts, feelings and behaviours in type 1 diabetes and disordered eating. The resilience model summarises strategies and knowledge acquired by those with type 1 diabetes in recovery from disordered eating and individuals with type 1 diabetes who did not develop disordered eating. Early adverse life events, past psychiatric history, perfectionist personality traits, difficult experiences around type 1 diabetes diagnosis and its relentless daily management sensitise individuals to eating, weight and shape cues. Alongside physical symptoms/complications, unhelpful interpersonal reactions and inadequate healthcare, vicious cycles of thoughts, feelings and behaviours develop. ‘Good enough’ psychological adaptation to type 1 diabetes, integrating type 1 diabetes into one's identity, self care and compassion around eating, weight and shape were key protective/post‐traumatic resilience factors.

Conclusions

This first cognitive behavioural therapy model of type 1 diabetes and disordered eating informed by personal experience will inform an intervention for type 1 diabetes and disordered eating.
North–South research collaborations: An empirical evaluation against principles of transboundary research
Authors: Kotze Shelley , Dymitrow Mirek
Published: April 2021

Motivation

Transboundary research collaborations (TRCs) are critical in supporting evidence‐based actions to address complex global issues, yet there remains a lack of empirical knowledge that would detail how TRCs are organized, how activities are facilitated, and how actors interact.

Purpose

We address this knowledge gap by evaluating a North–South TRC against the 11 principles for TRCs defined by the Commission for Research Partnerships with Developing Countries (KFPE).

Methods and approach

Using personal accounts, content analysis, and semi‐structured interviews/surveys, our evaluation casts light on how the process of running a TRC in the 21st century is enacted from the perspective of the individual.

Findings

Our results and discussion provide the basis for a more probing and systematic case for and against contemporary TRCs, their underlying value structures and ways of working, as well as the dimensions that are lacking.

Policy implications

Evaluation of TRCs must include the experience of all the actors involved in the TRC and not only the outcomes they produce; transdisciplinarity cannot be viewed as the only way to solve general development issues, but must be carefully considered in order not to mask underlying issues of inequality and poor ethics; and the ring‐fencing of funding for a specific purpose or TRC does not negate the need to scrutinize the activities that are undertaken in the name of the TRC.
Time to onset of cannabidiol (CBD) treatment effect in Lennox–Gastaut syndrome: Analysis from two randomized controlled trials
Authors: Privitera Michael , Bhathal Hari , Wong Matthew , Cross J. Helen , Wirrell Elaine , Marsh Eric D. , Mazurkiewicz‐Beldzinska Maria , Villanueva Vicente , Checketts Daniel , Knappertz Volker , VanLandingham Kevan
Published: April 2021

Objective

To estimate time to onset of cannabidiol (CBD) treatment effect (seizure reduction and adverse events [AEs]), we conducted post hoc analyses of data from two randomized, placebo‐controlled, Phase 3 trials, GWPCARE3 (NCT02224560) and GWPCARE4 (NCT02224690), of patients with Lennox–Gastaut syndrome.

Methods

Patients received plant‐derived pharmaceutical formulation of highly purified CBD (Epidiolex, 100 mg/ml oral solution) at 10 mg/kg/day (CBD10; GWPCARE3) or 20 mg/kg/day (CBD20; both trials) or placebo for 14 weeks. Treatment started at 2.5 mg/kg/day for all groups and reached 10 mg/kg/day on Day 7 and 20 mg/kg/day (CBD20 and matching placebo only) on Day 11. Percentage change from baseline in drop seizure frequency was calculated by cumulative day (i.e., including all previous days). Time to onset and resolution of AEs were evaluated.

Results

Overall, 235 patients received CBD (CBD10 [GWPCARE3 only],n = 67; CBD20 [pooled GWPCARE3&4],n = 168) and 161 received placebo. Mean (range) age was 15.3 years (2.6–48.0). Patients had previously discontinued a median (range) of six (0–28) antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) and were currently taking a median of three (0–5) AEDs. Differences in drop seizure reduction between placebo and CBD emerged during the titration period and became nominally significant by Day 6 (p = .008) for pooled CBD treatment groups. Separation between placebo and CBD in ≥50% responder rate emerged by Day 6. Onset of the first reported AE occurred during the titration period in 45% of patients (CBD10, 46%; CBD20, 52%; placebo, 38%). In patients with AEs, resolution occurred within 4 weeks of onset in 53% of placebo and 39% of CBD patients and by end of study in 63% of placebo and 61% of CBD patients.

Significance

Treatment effect (efficacy and AEs) of CBD may occur within 1 week of starting treatment. Although AEs lasted longer for CBD than placebo, most resolved within the 14‐week period.
Risk factors for prediction of delirium at hospital admittance
Authors: Cano‐Escalera Guillermo , Graña Manuel , Irazusta Jon , Labayen Idoia , Besga Ariadna
Published: April 2021

Aging population in many developed countries, moves the issue of healthy aging at the forefront of the political, scientific and technological concerns. Delirium is a multifactorial disorder that is highly prevalent in hospitalized elderly people that causes complications in the patient care and increases mortality at the hospital and soon after discharge. Early diagnostics would allow improved treatment and prevention for a syndrome that requires very personalized treatment. This paper deals with machine learning based prediction of delirium at hospital admittance as a computer aided diagnostic tool, as well as with the identification of risk factors by means of the variable importance computed by the classifier model building approaches. We achieve almost 0.80 classification accuracy, which is encourages further exploration of improved classifier models. Exploration of variable importance shows that frailty, dementia and some pharmacological factors are relevant risk factors for delirium at hospital admittance.
Rechtwijzer and Uitelkaar.nl. Dutch Experiences with ODR for Divorce
Authors: Kistemaker Laura
Published: April 2021

In 2014, Rechtwijzer uit elkaar – an online self‐help tool for divorce ‐ was developed in a partnership between the Hague Institute on the Innovation of Law, the Dutch Legal Aid Board and Modria. It was a sophisticated tool that assisted separating partners in having a structured dialogue about their divorce and parenting agreements, and subsequently having those agreements formalized in court, dissolving the marriage. It ran until 2017, after which it was rebuilt and continued under the name of Uitelkaar.nl, operated by the social enterprise Justice42. By using Uitelkaar.nl as an example, this article explores what promises technology holds in the specific case of ODR and divorce. It can offer structure and control over the process, have de‐escalating results, have emancipating effects, stimulate access to justice, be cost‐efficient and prevent conflicts in the future. Also, it discusses the lessons that were learned from the earlier version, Rechtwijzer uit elkaar, and how these were incorporated in the subsequent version of Uitelkaar.nl. Some statistics are shared from the wealth of data that the digital interaction of users with the tool and the surveys that are answered, generate. Currently, the tool deals with the “simpler” divorce cases of people with relatively high levels of self‐efficacy and low levels of conflict. But with certain additions, the reach can be expanded. For example, more complex cases can be handled by adding add on services. Also, people with lower levels of self‐efficacy could benefit from the tool. These groups would need additional help in getting through the process on the tool, but this could be fairly easily facilitated by creating in the tool a supporting role for professionals, such as social workers or employees of the legal advice centers. Lastly, the functionality of “unbundling” the divorce related topics that need tackling and having overview of what issues were agreed on and what issues were not agreed on, also seems useful for cases with higher levels of conflict. The article concludes by reflecting on the position of the Dutch government with regard to the tool. The Legal Aid Board played an indispensable role in bringing the innovative tool to life, but did not go as far as to continue to invest in the tool after the first pilot phase. So far, it has been reluctant to fully create a level playing field. However, the revision of the legal aid system that is currently being prepared, might offer possibilities for scaling up usage of the online self‐help tool for divorce.