bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Divergent Folding-Mediated Epistasis Among Unstable Membrane Protein Variants
Authors: Chamness Laura M. , Kuntz Charles P. , McKee Andrew G. , Penn Wesley D. , Hemmerich Christopher M. , Rusch Douglas B. , Woods Hope , Dyotima  , Meiler Jens , Schlebach Jonathan P.
Published: August 2023

Many membrane proteins are prone to misfolding, which compromises their functional expression at the plasma membrane. This is particularly true for the mammalian gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptor GPCRs (GnRHR). We recently demonstrated that evolutionary GnRHR modifications appear to have coincided with adaptive changes in cotranslational folding efficiency. Though protein stability is known to shape evolution, it is unclear how cotranslational folding constraints modulate the synergistic, epistatic interactions between mutations. We therefore compared the pairwise interactions formed by mutations that disrupt the membrane topology (V276T) or tertiary structure (W107A) of GnRHR. Using deep mutational scanning, we evaluated how the plasma membrane expression of these variants is modified by hundreds of secondary mutations. An analysis of 251 mutants in three genetic backgrounds reveals that V276T and W107A form distinct epistatic interactions that depend on both the severity and the mechanism of destabilization. V276T forms predominantly negative epistatic interactions with destabilizing mutations in soluble loops. In contrast, W107A forms positive interactions with mutations in both loops and transmembrane domains that reflect the diminishing impacts of the destabilizing mutations in variants that are already unstable. These findings reveal how epistasis is remodeled by conformational defects in membrane proteins and in unstable proteins more generally.

Impact Statement

Many of the synergistic interactions between mutations within a gene are modified in the context of unstable proteins in a manner that depends on how the variants promote misfolding in the cell.
α-catenin mechanosensitivity as a route to cytokinesis failure through sequestration of LZTS2
Authors: Wang Yuou , Yemelyanov Alex , Go Christopher D. , Kim Sun , Quinn Jeanne M. , Flozak Annette S. , Le Phuong M. , Liang Shannon , Claude-Gingras Anne , Ikura Mitsu , Ishiyama Noboru , Gottardi Cara J.
Published: August 2023

Epithelial cells can become polyploid upon tissue injury, but mechanosensitive cues that trigger this state are poorly understood. Using α-catenin (α-cat) knock-out Madin Darby Canine Kidney (MDCK) cells reconstituted with wild-type and mutant forms of α-cat as a model system, we find that an established α-cat actin-binding domain unfolding mutant designed to reduce force-sensitive binding to F-actin (α-cat-H0-FABD+) can promote cytokinesis failure, particularly along epithelial wound-fronts. Enhanced α-cat coupling to cortical actin is neither sufficient nor mitotic cell-autonomous for cytokinesis failure, but critically requires the mechanosensitive Middle-domain (M1-M2-M3) and neighboring cells. Disease relevant α-cat M-domain missense mutations known to cause a form of retinal pattern dystrophy (α-cat E307K or L436P) are associated with elevated binucleation rates via cytokinesis failure. Similar binucleation rates are seen in cells expressing an α-cat salt-bridge destabilizing mutant (R551A) designed to promote M2-M3 domain unfurling at lower force thresholds. Since binucleation is strongly enhanced by removal of the M1 as opposed to M2-M3 domains, cytokinetic fidelity is most sensitive to α-cat M2-M3 domain opening. To identify α-cat conformation-dependent proximity partners that contribute to cytokinesis, we used a biotin-ligase approach to distinguished proximity partners that show enhanced recruitment upon α-cat M-domain unfurling (R551A). We identified Leucine Zipper Tumor Suppressor 2 (LZTS2), an abscission factor previously implicated in cytokinesis. We confirm that LZTS2 enriches at the midbody, but discover it also localizes to tight and tricellular junctions. LZTS2 knock-down promotes binucleation in both MDCK and Retinal Pigmented Epithelial (RPE) cells. α-cat mutants with persistent M2-M3 domain opening showed elevated junctional enrichment of LZTS2 from the cytosol compared α-cat wild-type cells. These data implicate LZTS2 as a mechanosensitive effector of α-cat that is critical for cytokinetic fidelity. This model rationalizes how persistent mechano-activation of α-cat may drive tension-induced polyploidization of epithelia post-injury and suggests an underlying mechanism for how pathogenic α-cat mutations drive macular dystrophy.
Female germline expression of OVO transcription factor bridgesDrosophilagenerations
Authors: Benner Leif , Muron Savannah , Oliver Brian
Published: August 2023

OVO is required for karyotypically female germ cell viability but has no known function in the male germline in Drosophila.ovois autoregulated by two antagonistic isoforms, OVO-A and OVO-B. Allovo-alleles were created as partial revertants of the antimorphicovoD1allele. Creation of new targeted alleles in anovo+background indicated that disrupting the germline-specific exon extension ofovo-Bleads to an arrested egg chamber phenotype, rather than germ cell death. RNA-seq analysis, including >1K full length cDNAs, indicates thatovoutilizes a number of unannotated splice variations in the extended exon and a minor population ofovo-Btranscripts utilizes an alternative splice. This indicates that classicalovoalleles such asovoD1rv23, are not truly null forovo, and are likely to be weak antimorphs. To generate bonafide nulls, we deleted theovo-Aandovo-Bpromoters showing that onlyovo-Bis required for female germ cell viability and there is an early and polyphasic developmental requirement forovo-Bin the female germline. To visualize OVO expression and localization, we endogenously taggedovoand found nuclear OVO in all differentiating female germ cells throughout oogenesis in adults. We also found that OVO is maternally deposited into the embryo, where it showed nuclear localization in newly formed pole cells. Maternal OVO persisted in embryonic germ cells until zygotic OVO expression was detectable, suggesting that there is continuous nuclear OVO expression in the female germline in the transition from one generation to the next.

Article Summary

ovohas long been considered to be at the top of the female germline sex determination pathway. We utilized updated genetic methods to determine OVO expression, localization, and requirement in the embryonic and adult germline. Our results indicate that OVO is always present, and likely required, in the Drosophila female germline.
Cytoskeletal adaptation following long-term dysregulation of actomyosin in neuronal processes
Authors: Cisterna Bruno A. , Skruber Kristen , Jane Makenzie L. , Camesi Caleb I. , Nguyen Ivan D. , Warp Peyton V. , Black Joseph B. , Butler Mitchell T. , Bear James E. , Read Tracy-Ann , Vitriol Eric A.
Published: August 2023

Microtubules, intermediate filaments, and actin are cytoskeletal polymer networks found within the cell. While each has unique functions, all the cytoskeletal elements must work together for cellular mechanics to be fully operative. This is achieved through crosstalk mechanisms whereby the different networks influence each other through signaling pathways and direct interactions. Because crosstalk can be complex, it is possible for perturbations in one cytoskeletal element to affect the others in ways that are difficult to predict. Here we investigated how long-term changes to the actin cytoskeleton affect microtubules and intermediate filaments. Reducing F-actin or actomyosin contractility increased acetylated microtubules and intermediate filament expression, with the effect being significantly more pronounced in neuronal processes. Changes to microtubules were completely reversible if F-actin and myosin activity is restored. Moreover, the altered microtubules in neuronal processes resulting from F-actin depletion caused significant changes to microtubule-based transport, mimicking phenotypes that are linked to neurodegenerative disease. Thus, defects in actin dynamics cause a compensatory response in other cytoskeleton components which profoundly alters cellular function.
Adrenergic Reprogramming of Preexisting Adipogenic Trajectories Steer Naïve Mural Cells Toward Beige Differentiation
Authors: Desevin Kathleen , Cortez Briana N. , Lin Jean Z , Lama Dechen , Layne Matthew D. , Farmer Stephen R. , Rabhi Nabil
Published: August 2023

In adult white adipose tissue, cold or β3-adrenoceptor activation promotes the appearance of thermogenic beige adipocytes. Our comprehensive single-cell analysis revealed that these cells arise through the reprogramming of existing adipogenic trajectories, rather than from a single precursor. These trajectories predominantly arise from SM22-expressing vascular mural progenitor cells. Central in this transition is the activation of Adrb3 in mature adipocytes, leading to subsequent upregulation of Adrb1 in primed progenitors. Under thermoneutral conditions, synergistic activation of both Adrb3 and Adrb1 recapitulates the pattern of cold-induced SM22+ cell recruitment. Lipolysis-derived eicosanoids, specifically docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and arachidonic acid (AA) prime these processes and in vitro, were sufficient to recapitulate progenitor cells priming. Collectively, our findings provide a robust model for cold-induced beige adipogenesis, emphasizing a profound relationship between mature adipocytes and mural cells during cold acclimation, and revealing the metabolic potential of this unique cellular reservoir.
Functional Organization of Glycolytic Metabolon on Mitochondria
Authors: Wang Haoming , Vant John , Wu Youjun , Sánchez Richard , Micou Mary Lauren , Zhang Andrew , Luczak Vincent , Yu Seungyoon Blenda , Jabbo Mirna , Yoon Seokjun , Abushawish Ahmed Abdallah , Ghassemian Majid , Griffis Eric , Hammarlund Marc , Singharoy Abhishek , Pekkurnaz Gulcin
Published: August 2023

Glucose, the primary cellular energy source, is metabolized through glycolysis initiated by the rate-limiting enzyme Hexokinase (HK). In energy-demanding tissues like the brain, HK1 is the dominant isoform, primarily localized on mitochondria, crucial for efficient glycolysis-oxidative phosphorylation coupling and optimal energy generation. This study unveils a unique mechanism regulating HK1 activity, glycolysis, and the dynamics of mitochondrial coupling, mediated by the metabolic sensor enzyme O-GlcNAc transferase (OGT). OGT catalyzes reversible O-GlcNAcylation, a post-translational modification, influenced by glucose flux. Elevated OGT activity induces dynamic O-GlcNAcylation of HK1’s regulatory domain, subsequently promoting the assembly of the glycolytic metabolon on the outer mitochondrial membrane. This modification enhances HK1’s mitochondrial association, orchestrating glycolytic and mitochondrial ATP production. Mutations in HK1’s O-GlcNAcylation site reduce ATP generation, affecting synaptic functions in neurons. The study uncovers a novel pathway that bridges neuronal metabolism and mitochondrial function via OGT and the formation of the glycolytic metabolon, offering new prospects for tackling metabolic and neurological disorders.
Regulation of Non-Canonical Proteins Encoded by Small Open Reading Frames via the Nonsense-Mediated Decay Pathway
Authors: Periasamy Parthiban , Joseph Craig , Campos Adrian , Rajandran Sureka , Batho Christopher , Hudson James E. , Sivakumaran Haran , Kore Hitesh , Datta Keshava , Yeong Joe , Gowda Harsha
Published: August 2023

Immunotherapy interventions relies heavily on neoantigen availability. The human genome encodes non-canonical/mutant proteins that potentially contain neoantigenic peptides. Nevertheless, their typically low expression, potentially moderated by the Nonsense-Mediated Decay (NMD) pathway, restricts their therapeutic utility. In this study, we explored the NMD pathway influence on non-canonical/mutant protein expression, specifically focusing onUPF1knockdown. We implemented proteogenomic approaches to ascertain if the encoding transcripts and their respective proteins were upregulated post-knockdown. Complementary to this, we conducted a comprehensive pan-cancer survey ofUPF1expression and anin vivoevaluation ofUPF1expression in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC) tissue. Our empirical results delineated thatUPF1knockdown precipitates an increase in the transcription of non-canonical/mutant proteins, especially those originating from retained-introns, pseudogenes, long non-coding RNAs, and unannotated biotypes. Furthermore, the analysis revealed thatUPF1expression was conspicuously high across a range of neoplastic tissues, with protein levels notably amplified in patient derived TNBC tumours in comparison to adjacent tissues. Our study elucidatesUPF1functional role in attenuating transcriptional noise through the degradation of transcripts encoding non-canonical/mutant proteins. Interestingly, we observed an upregulation of the NMD pathway in cancer, potentially functioning as a “neoantigen masking” mechanism that subdues non-canonical/mutant protein expression. Suppressing this mechanism may unveil a new cadre of neoantigens accessible to the antigen presentation pathway. Our novel findings proffer a solid base for devising therapeutic strategies targetingUPF1or the NMD pathway, given the pronounced presence ofUPF1in malignant cells, thus potentially augmenting immunotherapeutic responses in cancer.
Crystal structure and Hirshfeld surface analysis of 8-azaniumylquinolinium tetrachloridozincate(II)
Authors: Umirova Gulnora A. , Turaev Khayit Kh. , Alimnazarov Bekmurod Kh. , Kasimov Sherzod A. , Djalilov Abdulakhat T. , Ibragimov Bakhtiyar T. , Ashurov Jamshid M.
Published: August 2023

The reaction of 8-aminoquinoline, zinc chloride and hydrochloric acid in ethanol yielded the title salt, (C9H10N2)[ZnCl4], which consists of a planar 8-azaniumylquinolinium dication and a tetrahedral tetrachlorozincate dianion. The 8-aminoquinoline moiety is protonated at both the amino and the ring N atoms. In the crystal, the cations and anions are connected by intermolecular N—H...Cl and C—H...Cl hydrogen bonds, forming sheets parallel to (001). Adjacent sheets are linked through π–π interactions involving the pyridine and arene rings of the 8-azaniumylquinolinium dication. Hirshfeld surface analysis indicates that the most important contributions to the crystal packing are from H...Cl (48.1%), H...H (19.9%), H...C/C...H (14.3%) (involving the cations) and H...Cl (82.6%) (involving the anions) interactions.
Policies and politics development of vocational education in Indonesia: a historical perspective
Authors: Yasdin Yasdin , Parenrengi Syafiuddin , Hasriani Hasriani , Mahande Ridwan Daud
Published: August 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to discuss the history and political development of vocational education in Indonesia began before independence until independence era.

Design/methodology/approach

Analysis of related documents and literature was used to explore the policies and politics of vocational education in Indonesia. Some documents traced were in the form of laws and regulations and previous writings related to the politics and policies of vocational education in Indonesia.

Findings

The politics of vocational education at this time reinforces identity politics in the form of the language of instruction in the politics of vocational education. In addition, the school curriculum at this time tried to accommodate the interests of the colonizers. Change slowly occurred when Indonesia declared independence, and vocational education slowly underwent changes and development. Apart from still strengthening its identity in the form of language, culture and social structure, Indonesian vocational education has also been oriented toward the development of the country.

Research limitations/implications

Although the author has identified Indonesia's vocational education policies and politics, several things still require further investigation, especially the impact of culture in politics and vocational education policies including the contribution of community conditions.

Practical implications

The findings of this paper can potentially raise interest in the politics of vocational education because of the many interest groups involved.

Social implications

The findings can contribute in the conversion of interests between interest groups to allocated educational resources, both human resources and budgetary resources.

Originality/value

This paper not only describes aspects of Indonesian history and identity in vocational education and the politics of vocational education which were conducted previous studies but also provides information on strategies for converting interests between groups in the interests of vocational education.
Impact of service agents on customer satisfaction and loyalty: mediating role of Chatbots
Authors: Naqvi Muhammad Hasnain Abbas , Hongyu Zhang , Naqvi Mishal Hasnain , Kun Li
Published: August 2023

Purpose

This study aims to determine whether or not fashion retail brands can maintain their essence by providing personalized care through conventional face-to-face interactions or the use of e-services.

Design/methodology/approach

An exploratory investigation is being conducted to attain this goal. According to the findings of this research, Chatbots have an impact on consumer loyalty. The quality of a Chatbot’s system, service and information are all critical to providing a positive consumer experience.

Findings

The study concluded that Chatbot e-services might potentially enable dynamic and fascinating interactions between firms and their consumers. To personalize a Chatbot, firms might change the tone of the language used. Customers are more likely to use a Chatbot if it resembles a real person, which increases their pleasure and confidence in the product.

Originality/value

More precisely, the emphasis of the inquiry was on Chatbot, a relatively new digital tool that offers user-friendly, personalized and one-of-a-kind support to customers. Using information supplied by consumers, the authors examine a five-dimensional model that gauges how customers feel about Chatbots in terms of their ability to communicate with users, offer amusement, be trendy, personalize interactions and solve problems.
Leaving child and adolescent mental health services (CAMHS): the impact of diagnosis and medication management on optimal discharge or transition
Authors: Street Cathy , Ni Chinseallaigh Ellen , Holme Ingrid , Appleton Rebecca , Tah Priya , Tuomainen Helena , Leijdesdorff Sophie , van Bodegom Larissa , van Amelsvoort Therese , Franic Tomislav , Tomljenovic Helena , McNicholas Fiona
Published: August 2023

Purpose

This study aims to explore how young people in child and adolescent mental health services (CAMHS) in the UK, Ireland, The Netherlands and Croatia, experienced leaving CAMHS and identified a range of factors impeding optimal discharge or transition to adult mental health services (AMHS).

Design/methodology/approach

Interviews about discharge or transition planning, including what information was provided about their ongoing mental health needs, undertaken with 34 young people aged 17–24, all previous or current attendees of CAMHS. Some interviews included accounts by parents or carers. Data were thematically analysed.

Findings

A number of previously well-documented barriers to a well-delivered discharge or transition were noted. Two issues less frequently reported on were identified and further discussed; they are the provision of an adequately explained, timely and appropriately used diagnosis and post-CAMHS medication management. Overall, planning processes for discharging or transitioning young people from CAMHS are often sub-optimal. Practice with regard to how and when young people are given a diagnosis and arrangements for the continuation of prescribed medication appear to be areas requiring improvement.

Originality/value

Study participants came from a large cohort involving a wide range of different services and health systems in the first pan-European study exploring the CAMHS to adult service interface. Two novel and infrequently discussed issues in the literature about young people’s mental health transitions, diagnosis and medication management were identified in this cohort and worthy of further study.
Sustainable technique of dyeing bio-degradable polyester using henna extract
Authors: Irfan Hammama , Beg Tahreem , Naeem Farhana , Irfan Mohammad , Naqvi Shenela , Shengyuan Yang
Published: August 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to highlight the threats related to the utilization of synthetic fibers. Volatile organic compounds, particulates and acid gases are released during the production of polyester and other synthetic textiles. Polyester is problematic solid waste material as it takes centuries to break down and hence causes microplastic pollution. Biodegradable synthetic solutions for the replacement of polyester are a sustainable business marketing these days. The naNia fiber is the breakthrough product and it is claimed a biodegradable, compostable and toxin-free polymer.

Design/methodology/approach

In this research, fabric constructed of naNia fiber was dyed with the extract of naturally occurring Lawsonia inermis (henna) plant leaves. The henna dye was extracted in water and ethanol using different methods, and the better extract was selected by the evaluation of ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy and phytochemical analysis. Henna with ethanol extract showed more desirable results hence it was selected to dye naNia fabric. To improve dyeability, premordanting, simultaneous mordanting and postmordanting were done using chitosan, fresh lemon extract and tannic acid, respectively. The dyed fabric samples were subjected to color strength analysis and multiple colorfastness tests.

Findings

The colorfastness test has shown good to excellent results. Scanning electron microscope analysis had also shown the attachment of dye molecules to the filaments. This study revealed that henna dye is appropriate to color naNia fiber even without the aid of a mordant.

Originality/value

For the first time, toxicant-free, biodegradable polyester (naNia) is successfully dyed with sustainable and naturally available dyes and mordants.
Is short-term firm performance an indicator of a sustainable financial performance? Empirical evidence
Authors: Kayani Umar Nawaz , Gan Christopher , Rabbani Mustafa Raza , Trichilli Yousra
Published: August 2023

Purpose

This study aims to thoroughly examine and understand the relationship between working capital management (WCM) and the sustainable financial performance (FP) in the context of the New Zealand companies listed on stock exchange.

Design/methodology/approach

This study has applied various regression techniques to examine WCM and the sustainable FP relationship. The data set period is from 2009 to 2019. The results are robust upon various layers of robustness parameters. The system-generalized method of moments is applied for managing endogeneity issue.

Findings

The research reveals compelling evidence of a meaningful connection between WCM and sustainable FP indicators. The study specifically highlights the significant negative associations between the cash conversion cycle, average collection period and average age of inventory with the firm’s sustainable FP. Through robust analyses and various parameter adjustments, the study ensures the credibility and reliability of its conclusions, further reinforcing the impact of WCM on the financial health of New Zealand-listed firms.

Practical implications

This study provides future directions for researchers to explore the dynamic relationship between WCM and a firm sustainable FP because it is still a demanding and challenging area. Future research may care to explore the optimal way to reduce the cash conversion cycle, average collection period and average age of inventory for New Zealand firms. The current study does provide insights to NZ financial managers, which is useful for improving sustainable FP by efficiently managing WCM.

Originality/value

WCM is problematic and constitutes a notable challenge; it requires further research, especially in small economies such as New Zealand. Hence, it is an updated and fresh attempt based on a larger data set to measure the empirical relationship between WCM and the sustainable performance of New Zealand-listed firms. Furthermore, the current study uses dynamic panel data estimation techniques in addition to multiple regression techniques.
Increasing production diversity and diet quality: Evidence from Bangladesh
Authors: Ahmed Akhter , Coleman Fiona , Ghostlaw Julie , Hoddinott John , Menon Purnima , Parvin Aklima , Pereira Audrey , Quisumbing Agnes , Roy Shalini , Younus Masuma
Published: August 2023

In the context of rural Bangladesh, we assess whether agriculture training alone, nutrition behavior communication change (BCC) alone, combined agriculture training and nutrition BCC, or agriculture training and nutrition BCC combined with gender sensitization improve: (a) production diversity, either on household fields or through crop, livestock, or aquaculture activities carried out near the family homestead; and (b) diet diversity and the quality of household diets. All treatment arms were implemented by government employees. Implementation quality was high. No treatment increased production diversification of crops grown on fields. Treatment arms with agricultural training did increase the number of different crops grown in homestead gardens and the likelihood of any egg, dairy, or fish production but the magnitudes of these effect sizes were small. All agricultural treatment arms had, in percentage terms, large effects on measures of levels of homestead production. However, because baseline levels of production were low, the magnitude of these changes in absolute terms was modest. Nearly all treatment arms improved measures of food consumption and diet with the largest effects found when nutrition and agriculture training were combined. Relative to treatments combining agriculture and nutrition training, we find no significant impact of adding the gender sensitization on our measures of production diversity or diet quality. Interventions that combine agricultural training and nutrition BCC can improve both production diversity and diet quality, but they are not a panacea. They can, however, contribute toward better diets of rural households.
Outcomes for sigmoid volvulus managed with and without early definitive surgery: 20‐year experience in a tertiary referral centre
Authors: Satheakeerthy Shriranshini , Leow Priscilla , Hall Benjamin , Yen Damien Ah , Fischer Jesse
Published: August 2023

Background

Sigmoid volvulus is rare in Western countries. Patients at risk of sigmoid volvulus are often older with significant co‐morbidity. Without sigmoid colectomy there is a high recurrence rate, but indications for surgery are controversial.

Methods

A retrospective observational study was conducted by reviewing clinical records of patients admitted to Waikato Hospital 1 January 2000 to 1 January 2020 with a diagnosis of sigmoid volvulus. Patient characteristics, clinical features, investigations, management, and outcomes were recorded.

Results

One hundred and thirty‐two patients (87 male) were included with 203 volvulus episodes. Median age 76 years, median Charlson co‐morbidity index (CCI) 4. Median follow‐up 11 years. 44/132 (33.3%) had surgery during the index admission, two had elective surgery and the remainder had planned non‐operative management. 73/132 (55.3%) had surgery at any stage. 42/86 (48.8%) patients managed non‐operatively recurred; 66.7% of recurrences were within 6 months. Forty‐three (32.6%) died within 12 months of index admission; 28 (21.2%) died during an admission for volvulus. On univariate analysis higher age and abnormal vital signs were associated with inpatient and 12‐month mortality; higher CCI was associated with 12‐month mortality. On multi‐variate analysis increasing age in years was associated with increased risk of death (HR 1.089 [1.052–1.128, P < 0.001]). Normal vital signs at presentation were associated with decreased risk of death (HR 0.147 [0.065–0.334, P < 0.001]).

Conclusion

Sigmoid colectomy should be considered at index presentation with sigmoid volvulus. Half of patients managed non‐operatively recurred, with two‐thirds recurring within 6 months. The mortality rate remains high for subsequent volvulus episodes.
Long‐term consequences of juvenile vulvar lichen sclerosus: A cohort study of adults with a histologically confirmed diagnosis in childhood or adolescence
Authors: Morrel Beth , van der Avoort Irene A. M. , Ewing‐Graham Patricia C. , Damman Jeffrey , Schappin Renske , van Zeijl Kelly N. , Voorham Quirinus J. M. ,   participants in the Steering Group‐JVLS, ten Kate‐Booij Marianne J. , Burger Curt W. , Pasmans Suzanne G. M. A.
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Vulvar lichen sclerosus (VLS) occurs in at least one in 900 girls. There is limited knowledge as to what extent the disease persists in adulthood and what the repercussions in adulthood may be. The aim of this study is to evaluate the long‐term consequences of VLS diagnosed in childhood or adolescence.

Material and methods

The population of females histologically diagnosed with VLS in childhood or adolescence in the Netherlands between 1991 and 2015 was identified through the national pathology database. Histological specimens were retrieved and re‐evaluated. Potential participants for whom the diagnosis was reconfirmed and who are now adults, were then traced and surveyed. Descriptive statistics were calculated and compared with the literature. Main outcome measures are the demographics of the cohort, their scores on standardized quality of life (QoL) and sexuality questionnaires and answers to additional questions regarding patients’ experience with the disease. The questionnaires used were the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI), the Skindex‐29, the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) and the Female Sexual Distress Scale‐Revised (FSDS‐R). Secondary outcome measures include obstetric history and histological features found in the original tissue specimens.

Results

A total of 81 women participated, median age 29.0 years, median follow‐up from childhood diagnosis 19.5 years. Both QoL and sexuality were somewhat affected in 51.9% of cases. Less than half (45%) reported having regular check‐ups. Forty‐five (56%) reported symptoms within the past year; of those with symptoms, 14 (31%) were not under surveillance. Cesarean section rate (14.5%) was comparable to the general population, and there were more high‐grade obstetric anal sphincter injuries with vaginal deliveries than expected. Sixteen respondents (20%) were not aware of the childhood diagnosis prior to this study.

Conclusions

Symptoms due to VLS are reported by most adults diagnosed as juveniles. QoL and sexuality are affected and correlate to recent symptoms. VLS as a juvenile does not preclude a vaginal delivery. Women diagnosed with VLS in childhood or adolescence are often lost to follow‐up.
Editorial: If STRIDE‐II is the hammer, then Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis are not the same nails—Authors' reply
Authors: Dignass Axel , Rath Stefan , Kleindienst Thomas , Stallmach Andreas
Published: August 2023

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Dignass et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17622 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17640
Unvaccinated and left out: The mismatch of vaccine supply and demand during COVID‐19 as a source of interpersonal and societal exclusion
Authors: Jauch Melissa , Büttner Christiane M. , Albath Elianne A. , Greifeneder Rainer
Published: August 2023

At the beginning of the COVID‐19 vaccination campaign, many countries faced a mismatch between the demand and supply of vaccines. Particularly in countries where different rights were granted to vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals, this situation may have fostered what we here refer to as policy‐induced feelings of social exclusion. Using data from Germany in spring 2021, we investigate how individuals’ vaccination status related to feelings of (1) being excluded by others (interpersonal level) and (2) being excluded by the government (societal level) at a time when vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals had different rights. We find that being unvaccinated is associated with feeling excluded by others and by the government and that individuals generally report higher levels of exclusion by the government than by other people. These findings have important implications for policymakers not only in times of a pandemic but in light of major crises more generally.
Postmortem calpain changes in longissimus muscle from Lanyu native and Kaohsiung crossbred black pigs
Authors: Li Han , Chou Rong‐Ghi R. , Chang Ya‐Shiou
Published: August 2023

The purpose of this study was to compare postmortem calpain changes in porcine muscle between Lanyu native (n = 10) and Kaohsiung crossbred (50% Meishan and 50% Duroc, n = 10) black pigs. Longissimus dorsi (LM) muscles (4th to 10th ribs) from both sides of carcasses were hot‐sectioned in 30 min postmortem, vacuum‐packaged, and stored at 5°C. LM samples from the left side of carcasses were sampled at 0 (30 min postmortem), 3, 6, 12, 24, 48, and 72 h of storage. The 24 and 72 h samples of shear force measurement were taken from the LM at the 8th and 10th ribs of the right side of carcasses, respectively. Our results showed that the decreases in calpain‐1 activity, desmin content, and shear force were slower (P < 0.05) in Lanyu native black pig than in Kaohsiung crossbred black pig samples. Therefore, postmortem proteolysis and tenderization were more limited in LM from Lanyu native pigs than from Kaohsiung crossbred pigs.
Environmental Management Accounting – Developments Over the Last 20 years from a Framework Perspective
Authors: Burritt Roger L. , Schaltegger Stefan , Christ Katherine Leanne
Published: August 2023

The most cited framework for environmental management accounting to date was published in the Australian Accounting Review 20 years ago. This framework has until today considerably influenced the development of the environmental management accounting field. Set against new sustainability challenges it is now time to question if the framework remains relevant or if it needs to change, and in what ways, to address the contemporary challenges now facing society. Taking stock of environmental management accounting research and practice over the last two decades, a conceptual discussion is developed which is based on extant literature and the authors’ extensive experience of the topic. Thus, the paper looks back to reflect on the developments from the perspective of the framework and looks towards how environmental management accounting could be further developed in the future. It considers the current and future potential of environmental management accounting and managers to contribute towards sustainable development. This can be through: the development of new areas of application and thematic scopes targeting aspirational sustainability goals such as those represented by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and planetary boundaries; extending spatial scope beyond the organisation into supply chains and circular systems; development of new social and environmental measures of performance to complement economic measures; providing information specific to the needs and roles of new personnel using environmental and sustainability information; and building awareness and implementing new drivers for environmental and sustainability management accounting such as AI and chatbots.
Providing doula support to publicly insured women in central Texas: A financial cost–benefit analysis
Authors: Nehme Eileen K. , Wilson Kimberly J. , McGowan Robert , Schuessler Kirkland R. , Morse Sophie M. , Patel Divya A.
Published: August 2023

Background

Disparities in birth outcomes continue to exist in the United States, particularly for low‐income, publicly insured women. Doula support has been shown to be a cost‐effective intervention in predominantly middle‐to‐upper income White populations, and across all publicly insured women at the state level. This analysis extends previous studies by providing an estimate of benefits that incorporates variations in averted outcomes by race and ethnicity in the context of one region in Texas. The objectives of this study were to determine (1) whether the financial value of benefits provided by doula support exceeds the costs of delivering it; (2) whether the cost–benefit ratio differs by race and ethnicity; and (3) how different doula reimbursement levels affect the cost–benefit results with respect to pregnant people covered by Medicaid in central Texas.

Methods

We conducted a forward‐looking cost–benefit analysis using secondary data carried out over a short‐term time horizon taking a public payer perspective. We focused on a narrow set of health outcomes (preterm delivery and cesarean delivery) that was relatively straightforward to monetize. The current, usual care state was used as the comparison condition.

Results

Providing pregnant people covered by Texas Medicaid with access to doulas during their pregnancies was cost‐beneficial (benefit‐to‐cost ratio: 1.15) in the base model, and 65.7% of the time in probabilistic sensitivity analyses covering a feasible range of parameters. The intervention is most cost‐beneficial for Black women. Reimbursing doulas at $869 per client or more yielded costs that were greater than benefits, holding other parameters constant.

Conclusions

Expanding Medicaid pregnancy‐related coverage to include doula services would be cost‐beneficial and improve health equity in Texas.
Impact and assessment of training models in interventional endoscopic ultrasound
Authors: Miutescu Bogdan , Dhir Vinay
Published: August 2023

Interventional endoscopic ultrasound (IEUS) has gained significant popularity in recent years because of its diagnostic and therapeutic capabilities. The proper training of endoscopists is critical to ensure safe and effective procedures. This review study aims to assess the impact of different training models on the competence of trainees performing IEUS. Eight studies that evaluated simulators for IEUS were identified in the medical literature. Various training models have been used, including the EASIE‐R, Mumbai EUS, EUS Magic Box, EndoSim, Thai Association for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy model, and an ex vivo porcine model (HiFi SAM). The trainees underwent traditional didactic lectures, hands‐on training using simulators, and direct supervision by experienced endoscopists. The effectiveness of these models has been evaluated based on objective and subjective parameters such as technical proficiency, operative time, diagnostic success, and participant feedback. As expected, the majority of skills were improved after the training sessions concluded, although the risk of bias is high in the absence of external validation. It is difficult to determine the ideal simulator among the existing ones because of the wide variation between them in terms of costs, reusability, design, fidelity of anatomical structures and feedback, and types of procedures performed. There is a need for a standardized approach for the evaluation of IEUS simulators and the ways skills are acquired by trainees, as well as a clearer definition of the key personal attributes necessary for developing a physician into a skilled endoscopist capable of performing basic and advanced therapeutic EUS interventions.
Training peers to deliver mental health support to adults with type 1 diabetes using the REACHOUT mobile app
Authors: Tang Tricia S. , Yip Annie K. W. , Klein Gerri , Moore Lauren , Hessler Danielle , Polonsky William H. , Fisher Lawrence
Published: August 2023

Aims

While peer support research is growing in the Type 1 diabetes (T1D) community, the peer supporter training (PST) process is rarely documented in detail. This study provides a comprehensive description of PST and evaluation for the REACHOUT mental health support intervention, and examines the feasibility and perceived utility of PST.

Methods

Fifty‐three adults with T1D were recruited to participate in a 6‐hour, zoom‐based PST program for mental health support. The program was structured in three parts: (1) internal motivation, resilience and empathy; (2) mindfulness, emotions and diabetes distress; and (3) active listening and deferring clinical questions to professionals. Candidates were evaluated based on eight pre‐established competency criteria during a 5‐day support trial with an assigned standardized T1D participant. Perceived usefulness of training skills was also assessed 3 months into the REACHOUT mental health support intervention.

Results

Fifty‐one of the fifty‐three candidates who completed training achieved the criteria to graduate. Mean scores for the eight competency domains were: listens actively (4.55); asks open‐ended questions (4.12); expresses empathy (4.42); avoids passing judgment (4.67); sits with strong emotions (4.44); refrains from giving advice (4.38); makes reflections (4.5); and defers medical questions (4.58). Of the skills learned during the PST, 95% rated interpreting and discussing diabetes distress profile and expressing empathy as moderately to extremely useful.

Conclusions

Findings demonstrate that it is feasible to recruit and graduate the number of trainees needed using a rigorous process. Only by making training protocols available can the PST be replicated and translated to other T1D populations (e.g. adolescents, parents of children with T1D).
Structural and biochemical characterisation of the N‐carbamoyl‐β‐alanine amidohydrolase from Rhizobium radiobacterMDC 8606
Authors: Paloyan Ani , Sargsyan Armen , Karapetyan Mariam D. , Hambardzumyan Artur , Kocharov Sergei , Panosyan Henry , Dyukova Karine , Kinosyan Marina , Krueger Anna , Piergentili Cecilia , Stanley Will A. , Djoko Karrera Y. , Baslé Arnaud , Marles‐Wright Jon , Antranikian Garabed
Published: August 2023

N‐carbamoyl‐β‐alanine amidohydrolase (CβAA) constitutes one of the most important groups of industrially relevant enzymes used in the production of optically pure amino acids and derivatives. In this study, a CβAA‐encoding gene from Rhizobium radiobacter strain MDC 8606 was cloned and overexpressed in Escherichia coli. The purified recombinant enzyme (RrCβAA) showed a specific activity of 14 U·mg−1 using N‐carbamoyl‐β‐alanine as a substrate with an optimum activity at 55 °C and pH 8.0. In this work, we report also the first prokaryotic CβAA structure at a resolution of 2.0 Å. A discontinuous catalytic domain and a dimerisation domain attached through a flexible hinge region at the domain interface have been revealed. We identify key ligand binding residues, including a conserved glutamic acid (Glu131), histidine (H385) and arginine (Arg291). Our results allowed us to explain the preference of the enzyme for linear carbamoyl substrates, as large and branched carbamoyl substrates cannot fit in the active site of the enzyme. This work envisages the use of RrCβAA from R. radiobacter MDC 8606 for the industrial production of L‐α‐, L‐β‐ and L‐γ‐amino acids. The structural analysis provides new insights on enzyme–substrate interaction, which shed light on engineering of CβAAs for high catalytic activity and broad substrate specificity.
How do China's villages self‐organize collective land use under the background of rural revitalization? A multi‐case study in Zhejiang, Fujian and Guizhou provinces
Authors: Zhou Tianxiao , Luo Zhiwen , Zhang Xiaobin
Published: August 2023

As land is one of the most important production factors in rural areas, it is becoming an important challenge for rural revitalization strategy to realize land value and promote the socioeconomic development of villages through the collective action of self‐organized collective land use. Various studies have discussed the relationships among land governance, rural revitalization and self‐organization, but few studies have focused on village cadres' roles and village rules. This paper aims to establish an analytical framework to explore these two operating mechanisms of self‐organization in collective land use. Two villages in eastern China and one village in western China are selected as typical cases to demonstrate how collective land use is self‐organized by village cadres' roles and village rules. The results indicate that village cadres play roles in the entrepreneurial spirit and resource access capacity to promote village economic and social development. In the utilization of collective land for farmers to live in peace and work happily, the configuration of rules at the village level to regulate the behaviour of villagers is a qualification on demand and “see who can take part”, cost sharing and benefit sharing, graduated sanction and supervision. The analysis in this article may provide an understanding of the mechanism driving the promotion and improvement of land self‐organization, which has important policy implications for China and other developing countries adopting this mode to promote regional economic development in rural areas.
The gender pay gap—What's the problem represented to be? Analyzing the discourses of Estonian employers, employees, and state officials on pay equality
Authors: Aavik Kadri , Ubakivi‐Hadachi Pille , Raudsepp Maaris , Roosalu Triin
Published: August 2023

The gender pay gap (GPG) remains significant in most countries and is a key indicator of gender inequality in society. Qualitative research on the GPG is scarce, yet, qualitative perspectives on the GPG are valuable as the ways in which the GPG is understood and talked about shape actions to tackle it. This article focuses on how the GPG is represented in the context of work and organizations, inspired by the “What's the Problem Represented to be?” approach, developed by Carol Bacchi. The analysis draws on qualitative data—63 interviews with employers, employees, and state officials—collected in Estonia which exhibits one of the largest GPGs in the European Union. Five dominant representations of the GPG were identified: the GPG as (a) consciously produced by employers, (b) different pay for the same work, (c) unmeasurable due to “unique” and “incomparable” jobs and workers, (d) produced by women's failure to ask for fair pay, and (e) impossible for employers to reduce because of market forces. Collectively, these representations render the GPG inevitable, downplaying its emergence as a result of specific gendered social practices. This has implications for the employers' and the state's willingness and strategies to reduce the GPG.