bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
“Yes, that’s me singing to myself”: Jackie Kay’s “These are not my clothes” as a Self-Affirming Narrative of Care in Old Age
Authors: Oró-Piqueras Maricel , Casado-Gual Núria , Vizcaíno Verónica
Published: February 2024

Fictional stories set in care homes have increased in the last decades and, with them, the perspectives from which care homes are constructed and represented have become diversified. Care home stories. Aging, disability, and long-term residential care. Transcript Verlag]. Through the alternative worlds that are offered by literary narratives, these stories allow the reader to glimpse into the increasingly varied possibilities of care that a residential settlement can offer. At the same time, they highlight the attributes attached to human beings once their bodies are not regarded as fully functional or able by their carers and society at large. Jackie Kay’s short story “These are not my clothes” (2011) presents a highly symbolic care-home narrative in which constant practices of depersonalized care and infantilization lead to the inevitable dehumanization of the residents and their eventual deterioration. Through the viewpoint of its female protagonist, Margaret, Kay creates a personal, poignant and, at times, also humorous narrative of care that undermines prevailing images of the so-called fourth age as a period of extreme cognitive deterioration. Drawing from theories of care and the interdisciplinary field of aging studies, especially in connection with theories of embodiment and old age and social approaches to aging, this article offers a close reading of Kay’s short story as both an assertive narrative on the fourth age, and as an insubordinate story of care, which can serve as a model to both gerontologists and care practitioners.
US payment policy for medications to treat opioid use disorder: landscape and opportunities
Authors: McGinty Emma E , White Sarah A , Eisenberg Matthew D , Palmer Nicole R , Brown C Hendricks , Saloner Brendan K
Published: February 2024

Offering patients medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD) is the standard of care for opioid use disorder (OUD), but an estimated 75%–90% of people with OUD who could benefit from MOUD do not receive medication. Payment policy, defined as public and private payers’ approaches to covering and reimbursing providers for MOUD, is 1 contributor to this treatment gap. We conducted a policy analysis and qualitative interviews (n = 21) and surveys (n = 31) with US MOUD payment policy experts to characterize MOUD insurance coverage across major categories of US insurers and identify opportunities for reform and innovation. Traditional Medicare, Medicare Advantage, and Medicaid all provide coverage for at least 1 formulation of buprenorphine, naltrexone, and methadone for OUD. Private insurance coverage varies by carrier and by plan, with methadone most likely to be excluded. The experts interviewed cautioned against rigid reimbursement models that force patients into one-size-fits-all care and endorsed future development and adoption of value-based MOUD payment models. More than 70% of experts surveyed reported that Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurers should increase payment for office- and opioid treatment program–based MOUD. Validation of MOUD performance metrics is needed to support future value-based initiatives.
Is more patient empowerment always better? Examining the moderating role of perceived physician’s argument quality
Authors: Zhai Jiajing , Nie Jinghong
Published: February 2024

Patient empowerment is an important concept in the study of physician–patient communication and is becoming increasingly popular in medical practices. However, previous studies have yielded inconsistent results regarding its effects. To reconcile these findings and establish a robust connection between empowerment and patient adherence, our study blends dyadic power theory with patient empowerment research. Using mixed methods, including both empirical modeling and controlled experiments, we found that patients who are equally empowered, as compared to those who are under- or over-empowered, exhibit a stronger dominance intention, which subsequently positively affects their adherence and satisfaction. Underlying this nonlinear influence of empowerment on adherence are two independent pathways: one channeling the effect through dominance intention and the other through perceived physician incompetence. Perceived physician’s argument quality represents a boundary condition. This research offers meaningful theoretical and practical implications to the literatures on patient empowerment and adherence by revealing the curvilinear relationship.
From Europe to Mexico: The Unexpected Journey of Thirty Jewish Families Escaping Nazism
Authors: Gleizer Daniela , Siman Yael
Published: February 2024

Despite Mexico’s highly restrictive policy toward Jewish refugees during the 1930s and the Second World War, nearly two thousand Jewish refugees fleeing from Nazism managed to enter the country. While previous historiography has primarily focused on government policies toward Jewish refugees, it has paid little attention to the experiences of those who actually arrived in Mexico. This article fills this gap by analyzing the forced migration and transit process of thirty Jewish refugee families who arrived in Mexico between 1937 and 1949. Mexico emerged as a crucial option for refugees throughout their flight when they utilized and established transnational links that would ultimately lay the groundwork for their rescue. By expanding the field of Holocaust studies to encompass the experiences of refugees in Latin America, this study provides important insights into the global dynamics of the Holocaust.
Staging a Boycott: Photographs of the Nazi Attack on Jewish-Owned Businesses in April 1933
Authors: Kreutzmüller Christoph
Published: February 2024

On April 1, 1933, the Nazi regime staged the brutal state-organized blockade of Jewish-owned businesses as a peaceful boycott. At the time, attempts to influence public opinion only worked to a limited extent. Both domestic and international papers were reluctant to print photos that represented the Nazi perspective too clearly. Yet astonishingly, the Nazi perspective prevails today. The photos made by the Nazis and their helpers to stage the “boycott” are dominant in exhibitions and publications. The “Nazi victory on the shopfront,” as The Guardian called it in 1933, has therefore turned into a belated victory on the “photo front.” This article analyzes the photos taken on April 1, 1933, deconstructs the propaganda messages embedded in them, and reconstructs the violence of the Nazi regime’s first systematic assault against the Jews in Germany.
Fish age reading using deep learning methods for object-detection and segmentation
Authors: Cayetano Arjay , Stransky Christoph , Birk Andreas , Brey Thomas
Published: February 2024

Determination of individual age is one essential step in the accurate assessment of fish stocks. In non-tropical environments, the manual count of ring-like growth patterns in fish otoliths (ear stones) is the standard method. It relies on visual means and individual judgment and thus is subject to bias and interpretation errors. The use of automated pattern recognition based on machine learning may help to overcome this problem. Here, we employ two deep learning methods based on Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs). The first approach utilizes the Mask R-CNN algorithm to perform object detection on the major otolith reading axes. The second approach employs the U-Net architecture to perform semantic segmentation on the otolith image in order to segregate the regions of interest. For both methods, we applied a simple postprocessing to count the rings on the output masks returned, which corresponds to the age prediction. Multiple benchmark tests indicate the promising performance of our implemented approaches, comparable to recently published methods based on classical image processing and traditional CNN implementation. Furthermore, our algorithms showed higher robustness compared to the existing methods, while also having the capacity to extrapolate missing age groups and to adapt to a new domain or data source.
Outcomes and prognostic factors of repeat pulmonary metastasectomy
Authors: Kanzaki Ryu , Watari Hirokazu , Omura Akiisa , Kawagishi Sachi , Tanaka Ryo , Maniwa Tomohiro , Okami Jiro
Published: February 2024

OBJECTIVES

Information on prognostic factors after repeat pulmonary metastasectomy (PM) is limited, and outcomes after a third PM are not well documented.

METHODS

A single-institute retrospective study was conducted. Between 2000 and 2020, 68 patients underwent repeat PM for pulmonary metastases from various cancers. Outcomes and prognostic factors for the second PM and outcomes after the third PM were analysed.

RESULTS

This study included 39 men and 29 women. The mean age at second PM was 53.2 years old. The primary tumours were soft tissue sarcoma in 24 patients, colorectal cancer in 19 and osteosarcoma in 10. The interval between the first PM procedure and detection of pulmonary metastasis after the first PM (months) was ≤12 in 37 patients and >12 in 31 patients. At the second PM, 20 patients underwent lobectomy or bilobectomy, and 48 underwent sublobar resection. Complete resection was achieved in 60 patients, and 52 patients experienced recurrence after the second PM. The 5-year relapse-free survival and overall survival rates after the second PM were 27% and 48%, respectively. Multivariable analysis revealed that the interval between the first PM and the subsequent detection of pulmonary metastasis (≤12 months) was a poor prognostic factor for both relapse-free survival and overall survival after the second PM. Seventeen patients underwent a third PM, 3 of whom achieved a 3-year disease-free survival.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with a period of >12 months between the first PM and the subsequent detection of pulmonary metastases showed favourable outcomes and are thus considered good candidates for second PM. A third PM may be beneficial for selected patients.
Earthquake Theorem for Cluster Algebras of Finite Type
Authors: Asaka Takeru , Ishibashi Tsukasa , Kano Shunsuke
Published: February 2024

We introduce a cluster algebraic generalization of Thurston’s earthquake map for the cluster algebras of finite type, which we call the cluster earthquake map. It is defined by gluing exponential maps, which is modeled after the earthquakes along ideal arcs. We prove an analogue of the earthquake theorem, which states that the cluster earthquake map gives a homeomorphism between the spaces of $\mathbb {R}^{\textrm {trop}}$- and $\mathbb {R}_{>0}$-valued points of the cluster $\mathcal {X}$-variety. For those of type $A_{n}$ and $D_{n}$, the cluster earthquake map indeed recovers the earthquake maps for marked disks and once-punctured marked disks, respectively. Moreover, we investigate certain asymptotic behaviors of the cluster earthquake map, which give rise to “continuous deformations” of the Fock–Goncharov fan.
Epidemiological Characteristics and Outcome of Viral Respiratory Tract Infections in the First Year After Allogeneic Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation
Authors: Van Praet Jens T , Huysman Andreas , De Knijf Eline , De Buyser Stefanie , Snauwaert Sylvia , Van Droogenbroeck Jan , Lodewyck Tom , Schauwvlieghe Alexander , Selleslag Dominik , Reynders Marijke
Published: February 2024

Adverse outcomes of viral respiratory tract infections (RTIs) have been reported in recipients of allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation. Using a laboratory-developed multiparameter polymerase chain reaction in a consecutive series of 242 patients, we found the highest incidence of viral RTI in the preengraftment phase. The occurrence of multiple episodes of viral RTI or viral pneumonia was significantly associated with a higher hazard of nonrelapse mortality in the first year after transplantation. We observed a 90-day mortality of 19.7% after viral RTI, which was significantly different between patient groups stratified according to the immunodeficiency scoring index.
Unravelling the complex interplay between antibiotic consumption and adaptive changes in methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: van Hal Sebastiaan J , Jensen Slade O , Tong Stephen Y C , Bentley Stephen , Holden Matthew T
Published: February 2024

Objectives

This study aims to elucidate the genomic dynamics driving the emergence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), with a specific focus on the interplay between AMR and antimicrobial usage.

Methods

We conducted a comprehensive analysis using a ST239 methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) dataset over a continuous 12-year period from a single hospital. Genomic analyses were performed tracking the changes in MRSA populations, particularly the emergence of reduced vancomycin susceptibility, and assessing the impact of glycopeptide use on these emergence events.

Results

Our findings reveal a significant correlation between hospital glycopeptide usage and the selection of MRSA strains with reduced vancomycin susceptibility. Genomic analyses provided insights into the molecular mechanisms driving resistance emergence, including the slowing of the molecular clock rate in response to heightened antimicrobial consumption.

Conclusions

In conclusion, this study the highlights the complex dynamics between AMR and antimicrobial use at the hospital level. The observed correlation between antimicrobial consumption and the development of less susceptible MRSA strains underscores the importance of antimicrobial stewardship programmes and the establishment of optimal consumption thresholds for mitigating AMR effectively.
Effectiveness of Community Education for Breast Cancer Screening
Authors: Zafar Nadia , Wolf Andrea B , Kepniss Julia L , Teal Ashley C , Brem Rachel F
Published: February 2024

Objective

Screening based on individual risk factors results in detection of earlier, more curable breast cancer. There is expectation that improved public education about the importance of personalized screening will result in earlier diagnoses and reduced breast cancer mortality. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of community education on patient perceptions about risk-based screening.

Methods

This study is Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act–compliant and institutional review board exempt. A standardized curriculum was used by radiologists and experts to conduct nine 1-hour patient education sessions between October 2018 and January 2019 about breast cancer risk factors and screening options. Patient participants completed voluntary, anonymous pre-event and post event surveys to determine if the presented educational program led to attitude changes. Survey results were summarized using statistical analysis including mean, median, range, and percentage of participants responding and comparison of pre- and post event fear and anxiety.

Results

Of 336 education session participants, 59.5% (200/336) completed the pre-event and 44.3% (149/336) completed the post event surveys, Respondents reported decreased anxiety and fear regarding breast cancer screening following educational sessions, with 36.1% (64/178) reporting anxiety pre-event compared to 23.3% (31/133) post event, although the difference was not statistically significant (P = .96). Additionally, 64.7% (55/85) of participants stated they were more likely to schedule breast cancer screening based on individual risk factors, and 98.0% (145/148) of participants reported increased knowledge on post event surveys.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates the importance and effectiveness of community-based educational programs in increasing knowledge of risk-based screening and potentially reducing anxiety related to screening.
The notion of ‘authorship’ under EU law—who can be an author and what makes one an author? An analysis of the legislative framework and case law
Authors: Fritz Johannes
Published: February 2024

The question of who an author can be, and what makes one an author, has once again come to the fore with the rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Such a concept, in particular the requirements of authorship, is not defined in the European Union (EU) legislation though. Additionally, no referral regarding the notion of authorship has yet reached the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU). This article analyses the legislation and case law of the CJEU to identify the elements needed for defining ‘authorship’. The analysis of international copyright law and the EU legislation shows that an author must generally be a human. Examining existing CJEU case law further provides indications of what makes someone an author. The creator must (i) exercise their creative freedom by monitoring and executing the preparation, realization and finalization of the work and (ii) express their creative act with a general authorial intent. Ultimately, the article attempts to rationalize these findings to advance its own definition. Accordingly, it is shown that an author is a human who, at least to a specific extent, is exercising a subjective judgment in the composition of a work and has control of its execution. This definition has the advantage of including objective and subjective criteria, allowing the assessment of cases involving multiple authors and technical aids. Regarding AI, it helps to clarify the level and type of human involvement required for an output to be considered a work of human authorship and therefore be potentially protected by copyright.
Communication and sexual function and frequency in breast cancer patients 2 years after diagnosis: results from the VICAN 2 study
Authors: Almont Thierry , Sougué Prisca Ouowéné , Houpert Rémi , Beaubrun-Renard Murielle , Montabord Christelle , Joachim Clarisse , Véronique-Baudin Jacqueline , Bouhnik Anne-Déborah , Bendiane Marc-Karim , Mancini Julien , Huyghe Éric
Published: February 2024

Background

Breast cancer treatments may have impacts on several aspects of sexual health, including psychological, psychosexual, physiological, physical, and relational.

Aim

In this study we sought to assess sexual function and sexual frequency in breast cancer patients 2 years after diagnosis.

Methods

We selected all breast cancer participants from the the French national VIe après le CANcer 2 (VICAN 2) longitudinal study. Data sources included patient and medical questionnaires, along with medico-administrative databases.

Outcomes

Outcomes assessed were the dimensions of sexual function and frequency from the Relationship and Sexuality Scale and communication about sexuality with healthcare providers.

Results

Out of 1350 participating women, 60.2% experienced a decrease in sexual desire, 61.4% reported a lower frequency of intercourse, and 49.5% faced decreased ability to orgasm. In contrast, 64.8% had engaged in sexual intercourse in the previous 2 weeks, 89.5% were “Somewhat” to “Very much” satisfied with the frequency of intimate touching and kisses with their partner, and 81.6% expressed satisfaction with their intercourse frequency. However, a mere 15% of women discussed sexuality with the healthcare providers. Independent factors associated with increased communication about sexuality included age younger than 50 years (OR = 1.90 95% CI [1.28–2.82], P = .001), being in a partner relationship (OR = 2.53 95% CI [1.28–2.82], P = .003), monthly income above 1,500 euros (OR = 1.73 95% CI [1.15–2.60], P = .009), and absence of diabetes (OR = 6.11 95% CI [1.39–26.93], P = .017).

Clinical Translation

The study findings underscore the need for continuing education in oncosexology and dedicated sexual health interventions that should involve a holistic approach that takes into consideration age, treatments, relationship status, and whether the patient has diabetes.

Strengths and Limitations

Strengths of the study are the sample size, the national representativeness, and data reliability. However, the cross-sectional design could introduce potential recall, recency, or social desirability biases. Also, social determinants influencing sexual health, such as ethnicity or geographic locations, have not been considered in the analyses.

Conclusions

This study revealed that sexual disorders persist 2 years after a breast cancer diagnosis, with a noticeable communication gap regarding sexuality between patients and medical teams. These findings underscore the necessity for tailored sexual health interventions, particularly designed for women who are single, older aged, and diabetes patients.
Fitness Effects of Phenotypic Mutations at Proteome-Scale Reveal Optimality of Translation Machinery
Authors: Landerer Cedric , Poehls Jonas , Toth-Petroczy Agnes
Published: February 2024

Errors in protein translation can lead to non-genetic, phenotypic mutations, including amino acid misincorporations. While phenotypic mutations can increase protein diversity, the systematic characterization of their proteome-wide frequencies and their evolutionary impact has been lacking. Here, we developed a mechanistic model of translation errors to investigate how selection acts on protein populations produced by amino acid misincorporations. We fitted the model to empirical observations of misincorporations obtained from over a hundred mass spectrometry datasets of E. coli and S. cerevisiae. We found that on average 20% to 23% of proteins synthesized in the cell are expected to harbor at least one amino acid misincorporation, and that deleterious misincorporations are less likely to occur. Combining misincorporation probabilities and the estimated fitness effects of amino acid substitutions in a population genetics framework, we found 74% of mistranslation events in E. coli and 94% in S. cerevisiae to be neutral. We further show that the set of available synonymous tRNAs is subject to evolutionary pressure, as the presence of missing tRNAs would increase codon–anticodon cross-reactivity and misincorporation error rates. Overall, we find that the translation machinery is likely optimal in E. coli and S. cerevisiae and that both local solutions at the level of codons and a global solution such as the tRNA pool can mitigate the impact of translation errors. We provide a framework to study the evolutionary impact of codon-specific translation errors and a method for their proteome-wide detection across organisms and conditions.
Secreted clusterin inhibits tumorigenesis by modulating tumor cells and macrophages in human meningioma
Authors: Ke Chao , Huang Boya , Xiang Jian , Liang Jinlian , Wu Guangjie , Qiu Minghui , Cheng Kai , Mao Lipeng , Lei Wen , Hu Yang , Tang Xiaogen , Tian Yizhen , Chen Guobing , Luo Oscar Junhong , Zhang Hongyi
Published: February 2024

Background

Meningioma is the most common primary intracranial tumor with a high frequency of postoperative recurrence, yet the biology of the meningioma malignancy process is still obscure.

Methods

To identify potential therapeutic targets and tumor suppressors, we performed single-cell transcriptome analysis through meningioma malignancy, which included 18 samples spanning normal meninges, benign and high-grade in situ tumors, and lung metastases, for extensive transcriptome characterization. Tumor suppressor candidate gene and molecular mechanism were functionally validated at the animal model and cellular levels.

Results

Comprehensive analysis and validation in mice and clinical cohorts indicated clusterin (CLU) had suppressive function for meningioma tumorigenesis and malignancy by inducing mitochondria damage and triggering type 1 interferon pathway dependent on its secreted isoform, and the inhibition effect was enhanced by TNFα as TNFα also induced type 1 interferon pathway. Meanwhile, both intra- and extracellular CLU overexpression enhanced macrophage polarization towards M1 phenotype and TNFα production, thus promoting tumor killing and phagocytosis.

Conclusions

CLU might be a key brake of meningioma malignance by synchronously modulating tumor cells and their microenvironment. Our work provides comprehensive insights into meningioma malignancy and a potential therapeutic strategy.
The chemical and biological characteristics of fatty acid esters of hydroxyl fatty acids
Authors: Zhu Shuang , He Yuan , Lei Jing-Nan , Liu Yuan-Fa , Xu Yong-Jiang
Published: February 2024

With the continuous advancements in detection methods and the exploration of unknown substances, an increasing number of bioactive compounds are being discovered. Fatty acid esters of hydroxyl fatty acids (FAHFAs), a class of endogenous lipids found in 2014, exhibit various physiological activities, such as improving glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity, stimulating insulin secretion, and demonstrating broad anti-inflammatory effects. Moreover, some FAHFAs are closely linked to intestinal health and can serve as potential biomarkers for gut health. Various FAHFAs have been observed in food, including palmitic acid esters of hydroxy stearic acids (PAHSA), oleic acid esters of hydroxy stearic acids (OAHSA), linoleic acid esters of hydroxy linoleic acid (LAHLA). As a type of lipid regularly consumed in the daily diet, it is highly important to ascertain the types and quantities of FAHFAs present in the diet. This article, based on existing research, provides a review of the analysis methods for FAHFAs, particularly focusing on the separation of chiral isomers. It also summarizes the sources and contents of dietary FAHFAs, emphasizing their bioavailability and impact on the gut. Understanding the beneficial effects of these lipids in the diet can serve as a valuable reference for the development of specific functional foods.
A Pilot Investigation of the Association Between Vpr Amino Acid Substitutions and Peripheral Immune Marker Levels in People With Human Immunodeficiency Virus: Implications for Neurocognitive Impairment
Authors: Asia Levanco K , Van Vuren Esmé Jansen , Kruger Iolanthé M , Williams Monray E
Published: February 2024

Background

Subtype-specific amino acid variations in viral proteins of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) influence disease progression. Furthermore, Vpr sequence variation correlates with chronic inflammation, a central mechanism in HIV-1 (neuro)pathogenesis. Nevertheless, no clinical study has investigated the link between Vpr sequence variation and peripheral inflammation in people with HIV (PWH). The aim of this pilot study was to ascertain whether specific Vpr amino acid variants were associated with immune markers in PWH.

Methods

We included a unique cohort of 48 treatment-naive South African PWH to determine the association between blood-derived Vpr sequence variation and peripheral immune marker levels using Sanger sequencing and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay analysis, respectively.

Results

Our findings indicate that among the many neuropathogenic Vpr amino acid variants and immune markers examined, after applying Bonferroni corrections (P = .05/3) and adjusting for sex and locality, soluble urokinase plasminogen activator receptor (suPAR) was nearing significance for higher levels in participants with the G41 amino acid variant compared to those with the S41 variant (P = .035). Furthermore, amino acid variations at position 41 (between G41 and S41) exhibited a significant association with suPAR (adjusted R2 = 0.089, β = .386 [95% confidence interval, .125–3.251]; P = .035).

Conclusions

These findings suggest that Vpr amino acid sequence variations might contribute to dysregulated inflammation, which could explain the observed association between specific Vpr variants and HIV-1 (neuro)pathogenesis found in prior research. These Vpr variants merit further investigation to fully understand their roles in HIV-1 pathogenesis and neuropathogenesis.
Model of a “Warm Corona” as the origin of the soft X-ray excess of active galactic nuclei
Authors: Kawanaka Norita , Mineshige Shin
Published: February 2024

The soft X-ray excess in the spectra of active galactic nuclei is characterized by similar electron temperatures of 0.1–0.3 keV and similar photon indices around 2.2–3, if fitted with inverse Comptonization. It remains a puzzle why both values are not sensitive to the black hole mass nor the accretion rate. Supposing that the scattering-dominated surface layer of an accretion disk can act as a warm corona, we construct a vertical one-zone model to understand what determines its temperature. By solving the equations of (1) the condition for the effective optical depth, (2) the energy balance, and (3) the dominance of the Compton cooling over the bound–free cooling, we could reproduce the basic observational features of the soft excess, provided that anomalous heating (excess heating other than what is expected by local energy dissipation) takes place in the warm corona in agreement with similar studies done so far. The similar temperatures can be understood, since both the anomalous heating and Compton cooling rates are proportional to the dissipation rate of the accretion energy, while similar photon indices are a natural consequence of the fact that observed photons are finally emitted from the layer of Compton y ∼ 1. The soft excess is not observed in black hole binaries, since disk temperatures are too high for the Compton scattering to work as cooling. The derived temperatures are somewhat of an underestimation, however. This may indicate a necessity of multi-zone corona structure. The stability of the warm corona and its consequences are briefly discussed.
Are many sex/gender differences really power differences?
Authors: Galinsky Adam D , Turek Aurora , Agarwal Grusha , Anicich Eric M , Rucker Derek D , Bowles Hannah R , Liberman Nira , Levin Chloe , Magee Joe C
Published: February 2024

This research addresses the long-standing debate about the determinants of sex/gender differences. Evolutionary theorists trace many sex/gender differences back to natural selection and sex-specific adaptations. Sociocultural and biosocial theorists, in contrast, emphasize how societal roles and social power contribute to sex/gender differences beyond any biological distinctions. By connecting two empirical advances over the past two decades—6-fold increases in sex/gender difference meta-analyses and in experiments conducted on the psychological effects of power—the current research offers a novel empirical examination of whether power differences play an explanatory role in sex/gender differences. Our analyses assessed whether experimental manipulations of power and sex/gender differences produce similar psychological and behavioral effects. We first identified 59 findings from published experiments on power. We then conducted a P-curve of the experimental power literature and established that it contained evidential value. We next subsumed these effects of power into 11 broad categories and compared them to 102 similar meta-analytic sex/gender differences. We found that high-power individuals and men generally display higher agency, lower communion, more positive self-evaluations, and similar cognitive processes. Overall, 71% (72/102) of the sex/gender differences were consistent with the effects of experimental power differences, whereas only 8% (8/102) were opposite, representing a 9:1 ratio of consistent-to-inconsistent effects. We also tested for discriminant validity by analyzing whether power corresponds more strongly to sex/gender differences than extraversion: although extraversion correlates with power, it has different relationships with sex/gender differences. These results offer novel evidence that many sex/gender differences may be explained, in part, by power differences.
How the duty to report prevents reporting and reinforces silence around sexual harassment within the police
Authors: Lundgren Silje , Wieslander Malin
Published: February 2024

Sworn police officers have a duty to report any legal offence that comes to their attention, and refraining from reporting constitutes misconduct. This article discusses the implications of the duty to report for handling sexual harassment within the Swedish police force. The discussion is based on interviews with police officers and on testimonies from the 2017 #metoo call from Swedish police. We show that the duty to report contributes to silence about experiences of sexual harassment, since reporting might initiate a legal process and break ‘the blue code of silence’. The duty to report implies an approach to sexual harassment along a criminal logic, focusing on legal classification, documentation of proof, and witness tampering. This criminal logic individualizes sexual harassment, raises the bar for what is interpreted as harassment, and closes off alternative approaches to prevent organizational factors that enable harassment.
Pain is common in myositis and associated with disease activity
Authors: Chandrasekhara Pillai Anjana , Bijoy George Tissa , Dianxu Ren , Mogadham-Kia Siamak , Oddis Chester V , Keret Shiri , Aggarwal Rohit
Published: February 2024

Background

Understanding pain in myositis remains challenging. This study aimed to assess patient-reported pain and its correlation with myositis core set measures (CSMs), patient-reported outcomes (PROs) and functional measures.

Methods

Fifty subjects underwent baseline, 3-month and 6-month assessments, evaluating myositis CSMs, functional measures and PROs. Pain was measured using three methods: (i) a 10-cm visual analogue scale, (ii) the pain score from the HAQ Disability Index and (iii) the Short Form 36 survey pain questions. Correlations between disease activity measures and pain were examined at baseline, and changes in both were assessed at 6 months, along with longitudinal change of pain. The change in pain was also correlated with the published 2016 ACR/EULAR myositis response criteria, physician/patient’s assessment of change.

Results

Nearly half of patients (45%) reported moderate to severe pain in all three pain scales, with higher severity of pain in PM/necrotizing myopathy subset. At baseline, pain severity showed a strong correlation with most CSMs, PROs and functional outcomes in all three pain scales, and similar trends were noted for change in pain at the 6 months. On longitudinal analysis, the physical function scores and fatigue showed strong correlation with pain. Pain improved in myositis patients with improvement in disease activity over time.

Conclusions

Pain is common in myositis and is associated with multiple measures of disease activity, PROs and functional outcomes in myositis. Most importantly pain improves with improvement in disease activity. SF-36 pain questions have good psychometric properties.
Systematic Review and Meta-analysis: Rates of Violence During First-Episode Psychosis (FEP)
Authors: Youn Sarah , Guadagno Belinda L , Byrne Linda K , Watson Amity E , Murrihy Sean , Cotton Sue M
Published: February 2024

Background

Most people with psychotic disorders will never commit an act of violence. However, the risk of violence committed by people with schizophrenia is higher than the general population. Violence risk is also known to be highest during the first episode of psychosis compared to later stages of illness. Despite this, there have been no comprehensive reviews conducted in the past 10 years examining rates of violence during FEP. We aimed to provide an updated review of the rate of violence in people with FEP.

Study Design

Meta-analytical techniques were used to identify pooled proportions of violence according to severity (less serious, serious, severe) and timing of violence (before presentation, at first presentation, after presentation to services).

Study Results

Twenty-two studies were included. The pooled prevalence was 13.4% (95% CI [9.0%–19.5%]) for any violence, 16.3% (95% CI [9.1%–27.4%]) for less serious violence, 9.7% (95% CI [5.4%–17.0%]) for serious violence and 2.7% for severe violence, regardless of time point. The pooled prevalence of any violence was 11.6% (95% CI [6.8%–18.9%]) before presentation, 20.8% (95% CI [9.8%–38.7%]) at first presentation and 13.3% (95% CI [7.3%–23.0%]) after presentation to services.

Conclusion

Overall, rates of violence appear to be lower in more recent years. However, due to the high between-study heterogeneity related to study design, the findings must be interpreted with consideration of sample characteristics and other contextual factors. The prevalence of violence remained high at all-time points, suggesting that more targeted, holistic, and early interventions are needed for clinical FEP groups.
Occupying Shops to Defend Spaces of Livelihoods: From Tenant Shopkeepers’ Fragmentation to Collective Consciousness in Urban Korea
Authors: Lee Yewon Andrea
Published: February 2024

When commercial real estate becomes a highly coveted investment commodity, tensions intensify between those whose interest lies in extracting maximum profits from their properties and those who utilize the very same spaces for making a livelihood. Through ethnographic research with a tenant shopkeepers’ social movement organization (SMO) in Korea, I analyze the new collective consciousness forming among tenant shopkeepers who are defending their livelihoods against their landlords’ rapacious use of rent hikes and evictions to fully realize the speculative potential of their properties. Examining how the SMO brings together geographically scattered tenant shopkeepers based primarily in the larger metropolitan area of Seoul, I ask, more broadly: How can the self-employed facing precaritization overcome their fragmentation and generate a new collective consciousness based on a politics of solidarity? Drawing from my case study of tenant shopkeepers and the literature on livelihood struggles elsewhere around the globe, I identify the practice of occupying livelihood spaces as playing a pivotal role in the development of a sense of collective among those previously atomized in their struggles. I advance existing scholarship by scrutinizing both the challenges and the transformative potential of the solidarity cultivated through the occupy sites in bridging divergent interests, cultural sensibilities, and political beliefs of the previously unorganized.
In silico soil degradation and ecotoxicity analysis of veterinary pharmaceuticals on terrestrial species: first report
Authors: Banjare Purusottam , Singh Rekha , Pandey Nilesh Kumar , Matore Balaji Wamanrao , Murmu Anjali , Singh Jagadish , Roy Partha Pratim
Published: February 2024

With the aim of persistence property analysis and ecotoxicological impact of veterinary pharmaceuticals on different terrestrial species, different classes of veterinary pharmaceuticals (n = 37) with soil degradation property (DT50) were gathered and subjected to QSAR and q-RASAR model development. The models were developed from 2D descriptors under organization for economic cooperation and development guidelines with the application of multiple linear regressions along with genetic algorithm. All developed QSAR and q-RASAR were statistically significant (Internal = R2adj: 0.721–0.861, Q2LOO: 0.609–0.757, and external = Q2Fn = 0.597–0.933, MAEext = 0.174–0.260). Further, the leverage approach of applicability domain assured the model’s reliability. The veterinary pharmaceuticals with no experimental values were classified based on their persistence level. Further, the terrestrial toxicity analysis of persistent veterinary pharmaceuticals was done using toxicity prediction by computer assisted technology and in-house built quantitative structure toxicity relationship models to prioritize the toxic and persistent veterinary pharmaceuticals. This study will be helpful in estimation of persistence and toxicity of existing and upcoming veterinary pharmaceuticals.
Is There a Bright Side to the China Syndrome? Rising Export Opportunities and Life Satisfaction in China
Authors: Crozet Matthieu , Hering Laura , Poncet Sandra
Published: February 2024

Export growth affects individuals through numerous and contradictory channels. In China, the development of exports has promoted economic development and income growth, but it has also disrupted social structures and work environments. This paper explores the overall effect of exports on perceived well-being by combining responses from a large longitudinal survey covering over 45,000 Chinese with a shift-share measure of local export opportunities. Results show that individuals’ perceived life satisfaction increases significantly in prefectures that benefited from greater export opportunities, despite a negative effect on self-reported health. The positive well-being gains go beyond a simple income effect. These non-monetary gains are related to the individuals’ professional life: export-related well-being gains are stronger for working-age individuals (especially men and low-skilled workers), are largest for workers in the manufacturing sector (which produces the vast majority of China’s exports), and are found when the satisfaction indicator focuses on work but not on other aspects of daily life.
Timing of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Vaccination and Effects on Menstrual Cycle Changes
Authors: Edelman Alison , Boniface Emily R. , Male Victoria , Cameron Sharon , Benhar Eleonora , Han Leo , Matteson Kristen A. , van Lamsweerde Agathe , Pearson Jack T. , Darney Blair G.
Published: February 2024

OBJECTIVE:

To assess whether menstrual cycle timing (follicular or luteal phase) of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccine administration is associated with cycle length changes.

METHODS:

We used prospectively collected (2021–2022) menstrual cycle tracking data from 19,497 reproductive-aged users of the application “Natural Cycles.” We identified whether vaccine was delivered in the follicular or luteal phase and also included an unvaccinated control group. Our primary outcome was the adjusted within-individual change in cycle length (in days) from the average of the three menstrual cycles before the first vaccination cycle (individuals in the unvaccinated control group were assigned a notional vaccine date). We also assessed cycle length changes in the second vaccination cycle and whether a clinically significant change in cycle length (8 days or more) occurred in either cycle.

RESULTS:

Most individuals were younger than age 35 years (80.1%) and from North America (28.6%), continental Europe (33.5%), or the United Kingdom (31.7%). In the vaccinated group, the majority received an mRNA vaccine (63.8% of the full sample). Individuals vaccinated in the follicular phase experienced an average 1-day longer adjusted cycle length with a first or second dose of COVID-19 vaccine compared with their prevaccination average (first dose: 1.00 day [98.75% CI, 0.88–1.13], second dose: 1.11 days [98.75% CI, 0.93–1.29]); those vaccinated in the luteal phase and those in the unvaccinated control group experienced no change in cycle length (respectively, first dose: −0.09 days [98.75% CI, −0.26 to 0.07], second dose: 0.06 days [98.75% CI, −0.16 to 0.29], unvaccinated notional first dose: 0.08 days [98.75% CI, −0.10 to 0.27], second dose: 0.17 days [98.75% CI, −0.04 to 0.38]). Those vaccinated during the follicular phase were also more likely to experience a clinically significant change in cycle length (8 days or more; first dose: 6.8%) than those vaccinated in the luteal phase or unvaccinated (3.3% and 5.0%, respectively; P<.001).

CONCLUSION:

COVID-19 vaccine–related cycle length increases are associated with receipt of vaccination in the first half of the menstrual cycle (follicular phase).
Autoantibodies in rheumatoid arthritis – rheumatoid factor, anticitrullinated protein antibodies and beyond
Authors: Steiner Günter , Toes René E.M.
Published: February 2024

Purpose of review

RA is characterized by the presence of autoantibodies among which rheumatoid factors (RFs) and antimodified protein antibodies (AMPA) are serological hallmarks of the disease. In recent years, several novel insights into the biology, immunogenetics and clinical relevance of these autoantibodies have been obtained, which deserve to be discussed in more detail.

Recent findings

RFs from RA patients seem to target distinct epitopes which appear to be quite specific for RA. Determination of immunoglobulin A (IgA) isotypes of RF and anticitrullinated protein antibodies (ACPA) may provide prognostic information because their presence is associated with reduced therapeutic responses to TNF inhibitors. Furthermore, IgA levels are increased in RA patients and IgA immune complexes are more potent than immunoglobulin G (IgG) complexes in inducing NET formation. Concerning AMPAs, investigations on variable domain glycosylation (VDG) revealed effects on antigen binding and activation of autoreactive B cells. Studies on pathogenetic involvement of ACPA suggest Janus-faced roles: on the one hand, ACPA may be involved in joint destruction and pain perception while on the other hand protective anti-inflammatory effects may be attributed to a subset of ACPAs.

The autoimmune response in RA is extremely complex and still far from being fully understood. Antibodies are not only valuable diagnostic biomarkers but also seem to play pivotal roles in the pathophysiology of RA.
The effects of gastrojejunostomy tube placement on pulmonary and gastrointestinal complications following spinal fusion for neuromuscular scoliosis
Authors: Legister Candice S. , James Chrystina L. , Truong Walter H. , Guillaume Tenner J. , Harding Danielle C. , Palmer Casey L. , Morgan Sara J. , Beauchamp Eduardo C. , Perra Joseph H. , Miller Daniel J.
Published: February 2024

To evaluate whether preoperative conversion from a gastrostomy tube (G-tube) to a gastrojejunostomy tube (GJ-tube) decreases short-term postoperative aspiration pneumonia and gastrointestinal complications in children with neuromuscular scoliosis. We conducted a retrospective chart review from January 2006 to October 2021 of pediatric patients who had neuromuscular scoliosis and were fed with a G-tube before spinal fusion. Eligible patients were divided into two groups based on whether they were converted to a GJ-tube preoperatively. Preoperative characteristics and 30-day postoperative outcomes were compared between groups using Chi-square tests. Of 261 eligible patients, 205 were converted to a GJ-tube, while 56 underwent spinal fusion with a G-tube. Common complications following G-tube to GJ-tube conversion were feeding intolerance (25.2%), GJ-tube malfunction (17.7%), and at least one episode of vomiting (17.4%). Within 30 days of discharge, 12.5% of GJ-tube patients and 11.5% of G-tube patients experienced aspiration pneumonia (P = 0.85). The GJ-tube group received postoperative tube feeds 7 hours earlier than the G-tube group on average (51.6 h vs. 44.5 h, P = 0.02). Within 30 days of discharge, one (0.5%) patient from the GJ-tube group died of gastrointestinal complications unrelated to conversion and two (3.6%) patients in the G-tube group died from aspiration pneumonia (P = 0.12). Results suggest that there were no appreciable differences in outcomes between patients converted to a GJ-tube preoperatively compared to those who continued to use a G-tube. However, preoperative characteristics indicate that a higher number of complex patients were converted to a GJ-tube, indicating potential selection bias in this retrospective sample. Level of evidence: Level III.