bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gender Is Carceral: On Racialized Gender Criminalization and Abolitionist Cis-Trans Coalitions
Authors: Hewitt Huey
Published: June 2023

This brief essay reflects on the conjunctional histories of anti-black and anti-trans criminalization in the context of the contemporary moral panic aimed at eradicating transgender life. Within the last couple of years, conservatives have introduced and (and sometimes passed) legislation in thirty-four states criminalizing trans people (with an emphasis on trans healthcare and bathroom use) and the parents, doctors, and teachers who have sought to serve as trans allies. How is this wave of fascist panic and propaganda linked to broader histories of racial and gendered criminalization in the United States? And how might a more thorough understanding of the carceral dimensions of race and gender aid in solidarity efforts between cis and trans abolitionist organizers? This paper reflects on these questions and their stakes in our current political moment.
U jeets'el le ki'ki’ kuxtal: A Hemispheric Meditation on Abolition and Autonomy
Authors: West S. B.
Published: June 2023

This article imagines abolitionist politics in the Yucatán peninsula as one group, known as U jeets'el le ki'ki’ kuxtal, pushes against one portion of Mexican president Andrés Manuel López Obrador's development plan known as the “Tren Maya.” I contend that U je'etsel's calls for autonomy speak to forms of radical abolitionist politics present in the United States, where we might observe the centrality of land in both abolition and decolonization. To this end, I first provide a definition of a trans feminist abolition radically focused on the otherwise, or the eradication of all forms of social oppression. This definition is followed by close readings of U je'etsel's communiqués regarding AMLO's 2021 visit to the Yucatán peninsula and the continued role the so-called “Caste War” plays in attempts to expand nationalized colonization into the region. My final goal is to proffer that “Caste War” constitutes a historicized form of radical autonomy as well as project of abolition subject to forces that seek to vacate it of its liberatory power. I demonstrate that part of U je'etsel's discursive project is to reclaim the “Caste War” narrative as part of an emancipatory project involving a radical reclaiming of autonomy's regional history.
Substratum wettability and charge influence the spreading of Dictyostelium amoebae and the formation of ultrathin cytoplasmic lamellae
Authors: Gingell David , Vince Sheila
Published: June 2023

Amoebae of Dictyostelium discoideum attach and spread on strongly hydrophobic methylated glass and polystyrene as well as the hydrophilic surfaces of clean glass, polylysine adsorbed on glass and acid-treated polystyrene.

On polylysine-treated glass, spreading is rapid and the edges of the fully spread cells withdraw, forming a wide ∼ 0·1 μm thick lamella, which gives a very dark image in the interference reflection microscope. The optical properties of the lamella have been analysed in detail using finite aperture theory and can be distinguished from dark images generated by a small aqueous cell-substratum separation. The formation of the lamella is discussed in terms of the mechanics of cell movement.
The Isopropylation of Naphthalene over H-MCM22 (MWW): The Formation of Triisopropylnaphthalenes
Authors: Sugi Yoshihiro , Joseph Stalin , Indirathankam Sathish Clastinrusselraj , Yang Jae-Hun , Ramadass Kavitha , Tabish Ahmad , Nimisha Naroth P , Ayyamperumal Sakthivel , Vinu Ajayan
Published: June 2023

The isopropylation of naphthalene (NP) was carried out over H-MCM-22 (MWW), and the isomer distribution of the isopropylates: isopropylnaphthalene (IPN) diisopropylnaphthalene (DIPN), triisopropylnaphthalene (TriIPN), and tetraisopropyl-naphthalene (TetIPN) was investigated. The catalytic results revealed that MWW is very active for their formation of the isopropylates at the reaction temperatures of 175–300 °C. This rapid formation of DIPN, TriIPN, and TetIPN isomers is considered to occur by multi-step isopropylation of NP during one stay on the catalytic site cooperating with the neighbor propene adsorbed sites. TriIPN isomers were the predominant products. Among them, α,β,β-TriIPN (1,3,6- and 1,3,7-) was obtained as major isomers, which are principally formed from α,β- and β,β-DIPN by α- and β-attacks, and α,α,β-TriIPN (1,4,6- and 1,3,5-) were formed as minor isomers. The selectivities for α,β,β-TriIPN isomers were governed by the steric configuration of the side-pockets of MWW: the pockets favored slim and stable 1,3,6- and 1,3,7-TriIPN from α,β- and β,β-DIPN, and bulky and less stable 1,3,5- and 1,4,6-TriIPN from α,α- and α,β-DIPN are disfavored by their steric restriction with side-pockets. The selectivities for TriIPN isomers were almost constant with the change of reaction factors: temperature, period, and catalyst amount. TetIPN isomers also formed in high yield, particularly, by using large amounts of the catalyst. The comparison of H-MCM-22 (MWW) with H-Y (FAU) and H-AlSBA-1 clarified the roles of the side-pockets in the isopropylation of NP.
Ancestry of RNA/RNA interaction regions within segmented ribosomes
Authors: Rivas Mario , Fox George E.
Published: June 2023

The ribosome is the universally conserved ribozyme that translates DNA coded instructions into proteins with the assistance of other RNA molecules, including transfer and messenger RNAs. Of particular interest is the segmentation phenomena, which is found in trypanosomatids and other protists. In these organisms, the large subunit ribosomal RNA is assembled from multiple smaller RNAs. This phenomenon posits several challenges to the folding and stabilization of such ribosomes to retain functionality and efficiency. In earlier studies, RNA/protein interactions were suggested to fully compensate for the fragmentation. Recently, several conserved RNA/RNA interaction regions were described in the cryo-EM structures of segmented ribosomes from trypanosomatids. These regions also seemed to aid in the folding and stabilization of such ribosomes, even before the ribosomal proteins start their association. In the present study, the existence of conserved RNA/RNA interaction regions shared between trypanosomatid andEuglena gracilissegmented ribosomes was confirmed, despite differences in segmentation patterns. Analysis of the crystallographic structures of unsegmented ribosomes from other Eukaryotes, Bacteria, and Archaea allowed us to estimate the relative age of highly conserved RNA/RNA interaction regions. These results strongly suggest that common interaction regions likely date far back into the ribosomes of the last common ancestor. Results also revealed that single hydrogen bonds are overwhelmingly facilitated by the 2′OH, a distinctive RNA feature. This supports the notion that RNA predates DNA and places some constraints on alternative nucleic acids proposals.
San Girolamo e il presunto millenarismo di Apollinare di Laodicea
Authors: Paczkowski Mieczysław Celestyn
Published: June 2023

Św. Hieronim polemizował z koncepcjami millenarystycznymi przy różnych okazjach. Przede wszystkim jednak jego argumenty były skierowane przeciwko judaizującym tendencjom w egzegezie i autorom, którzy w nieuzasadniony sposób wykorzystywali biblijne koncepcje i obrazy. Millenaryzm miał dłuższy żywot na Zachodzie niż na Wschodzie. Szczególny jest przypadek Apolinarego z Laodycei, posądzanego o wyznawanie chiliazmu. Jest to jednak mało znaczący element w całości jego doktryny. Co ciekawe jednak, uznaje się biskupa Laodycei za ostatniego przedstawiciela chiliazmu na Wschodzie, o którym przekazano informacje. Mimo preferowania dosłownej egzegezy przez Apolinarego, która mogła być inspirowana przekonaniami chiliastycznymi, nie dawał on Hieronimowi powodów do ostrych krytyk antymillenarystycznych. Jednak niektóre stronice dzieł Apolinarego wskazują na to, że z różnych powodów był on zaangażowany w dyskusję tego typu. Hieronim w sposób bardzo oszczędny wskazuje na błędy biskupa Laodycei. Powodem przywoływania wątków millenarystycznych była być może spora popularność tematyki eschatologicznej w przepowiadaniu. Dzięki temu Apolinary mógł zdobyć zwolenników dla swojej doktryny chrystologicznej. W dużym jednak stopniu można dostrzec tutaj dziedzictwo tradycji egzegezy dosłownej. Tematyka milenaryzmu przypisywanego Apolinaremu z Laodycei wydaje się do tej pory mało zbadana, także jeśli chodzi o dyskusje podejmowane z nim przez Strydończyka.
L-carnitine supplementation in female infertility – is it working?
Authors: Laskus Paulina , Przeradzki Jakub , Rząd Katarzyna , Borycka Aleksandra , Kotulska Maria , Potocka Zofia , Lichman Martyna , Lubczyńska Zuzanna , Jędrzejewska Barbara
Published: June 2023

Introduction and objective:
Infertility is estimated to affect around 15% of couples in reproductive age. Due to delayed decision about childbearing and unhealthy lifestyle it is increasing problem in many western countries. For that reason, people seek out supplements to enhance their fertility. L-carnitine is primarily known as a supplement often used by athletes to enhance exercise performance, but some reports suggest that L-carnitine may also have a positive effect on sperm and oocytes quality. The aim of this study was to summarize the published reports about L-carnitine impact on female fertility.
Brief description of the state knowledge
The primary mechanism of action of L-carnitine involves its role in the transport of long-chain fatty acids into the mitochondria of cells, where they are then metabolized in a process called beta-oxidation to produce energy. L-carnitine also have antioxidant properties, helping to protect cells from oxidative stress. It has also been suggested to play a role in modulating signaling pathways involved in metabolism, inflammation, and cellular growth and differentiation. Due to wide range of possible mechanisms of action L-carnitine is considered as a potential supplement for fertility.
Summary
The presented literature review suggests that L-carnitine has a promising effect on improving female fertility, especially when it comes to clomiphene citrate-resistant patients with polycystic ovary syndrome and in vitro fertilization. However, further studies are needed to confirm its role and exclude possible side effects of its use before it is routinely recommended for this indication.
Differences in the dentition pattern in monozygotic twins based on panoramic examinations – case report on two pairs of twins
Authors: Miazek Weronika , Smala Kamila , Piskórz Magdalena , Różyło-Kalinowska Ingrid , Futyma-Gąbka Karolina
Published: June 2023

The aim of the study is to present two examples of twins with differences in their dentition revealed with the use of panoramic examinations. The analysis based on panoramic X-rays shows that even though the monozygotic twins share 100% of the genome, their dentitions reveal significant differences.
LA CIUDAD DE COMPTON Y SUS CUERPOS REBELDES EN LA SUPER BOWL 2022: CARTOGRAFÍA DE CINCO ESTRATEGIAS ESCENOGRÁFICAS DISEÑADAS POR ES DEVLIN
Authors: Cano-Ciborro Víctor
Published: May 2023

El 13 de febrero de 2022, en el SoFi Stadium de Los Ángeles, se celebró la LVI edición de la final de la Super Bowl, siendo vista por 208 millones de personas. Durante el tiempo de descanso (half-time) se celebró una actuación musical de quince minutos donde el protagonista pasaba a ser uno de los territorios más estigmatizados en la historia de los Estados Unidos, la ciudad angelina de Compton. Por primera vez en una final de la Super Bowl, un lugar estigmatizado, sus arquitecturas, sus calles y sus raperos eran, de la mano de la artista y escenógrafa Es Devlin, visibilizados y mostrados al mundo. El objetivo de la investigación es revelar las estrategias escénicas diseñadas e implementadas por el estudio de Es Devlin para trasladar la particular atmósfera y complejas dinámicas espaciales de Compton al escenario. Para ello se realizará tanto un estudio comparado de los trabajos de Devlin como una serie de mapas, dibujos y cartografías analíticas en torno a la escenografía construida para la Super Bowl 2022.
The Value of Observing the Buyers’ Arrival Time in Dynamic Pricing
Authors: Correa José , Pizarro Dana , Vulcano Gustavo J.
Published: June 2023

We consider a dynamic pricing problem in which a firm sells one item to a single buyer to maximize expected revenue. The firm commits to a price function over an infinite horizon. The buyer arrives at some random time with a private value for the item. He is more impatient than the seller and strategizes over the timing of the purchase in order to maximize his expected utility, which implies either buying immediately, waiting to benefit from a lower price, or not buying. We study the value of the seller’s ability to observe the buyer’s arrival time in terms of her expected revenue. When the seller can observe the buyer’s arrival, she can make the price function contingent on the buyer’s arrival time. On the contrary, when the seller can’t, her price function is fixed at time zero for the whole horizon. The value of observability (VO) is defined as the worst-case ratio between the expected revenue of the seller when she observes the buyer’s arrival and that when she does not. First, we show that, for the particular case in which the buyer’s valuation follows a monotone hazard rate distribution, the upper bound of VO is [Formula: see text]. Next, we show our main result: in a setting very general on valuation and arrival time distributions: VO is at most 4.911. To obtain this bound, we fully characterize the solution to the observable arrival problem and use this solution to construct a random and periodic price function for the unobservable case. Finally, we show by solving a particular example to optimality that VO has a lower bound of 1.136.

This paper was accepted by Itai Ashlagi, revenue management and market analytics.

Funding: This work was partially supported by the Agencia Nacional de Investigación y Desarrollo Chile [Grants ACT210005 and FONDECYT 1220054], and by the Center for Mathematical Modeling at the University of Chile [Grant FB210005]. The work of D. Pizarro has benefited from the Artificial and Natural Intelligence Toulouse Institute, which is funded by the French “Investing for the Future – PIA3” program [Grant ANR-19-P3IA-0004].

Supplemental Material: The online appendix is available at https://doi.org/10.1287/mnsc.2023.4794 .
Work Style Diversity and Diffusion Within and Across Organizations: Evidence from Soviet-Style Hockey
Authors: Amodio Francesco , Hoey Sam , Schneider Jeremy
Published: June 2023

Does the arrival of culturally diverse workers affect the work style of incumbent workers? We examine how the large influx of Russian hockey players in the National Hockey League after 1989 affected North American–born players. The Soviet style of hockey was largely based on skilled skating, constant movement, circling, and passing. In contrast, the North American play was more individualistic and linear, with higher emphasis on physical strength and aggressive behavior. Using 50 years of data at the player-game level, we show that (i) the number of penalty minutes per game increases steadily from 1970 to 1989, but decreases thereafter; (ii) although Russian players get systematically fewer penalty minutes in and after 1989, the trend reversal is driven by North American–born players; and (iii) the number of penalty minutes per game of North American–born players decreases systematically with the number of Russian players on their team and on the opposing team. Evidence shows that the hockey style brought about by Russian players was adopted and diffused within and across North American teams and players.

This paper was accepted by Lamar Pierce, organizations.

Supplemental Material: Data and the online appendix are available at https://doi.org/10.1287/mnsc.2023.4808 .
On Geometric Connections of Embedded and Quotient Geometries in Riemannian Fixed-Rank Matrix Optimization
Authors: Luo Yuetian , Li Xudong , Zhang Anru R.
Published: June 2023

In this paper, we propose a general procedure for establishing the geometric landscape connections of a Riemannian optimization problem under the embedded and quotient geometries. By applying the general procedure to the fixed-rank positive semidefinite (PSD) and general matrix optimization, we establish an exact Riemannian gradient connection under two geometries at every point on the manifold and sandwich inequalities between the spectra of Riemannian Hessians at Riemannian first-order stationary points (FOSPs). These results immediately imply an equivalence on the sets of Riemannian FOSPs, Riemannian second-order stationary points (SOSPs), and strict saddles of fixed-rank matrix optimization under the embedded and the quotient geometries. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first geometric landscape connection between the embedded and the quotient geometries for fixed-rank matrix optimization, and it provides a concrete example of how these two geometries are connected in Riemannian optimization. In addition, the effects of the Riemannian metric and quotient structure on the landscape connection are discussed. We also observe an algorithmic connection between two geometries with some specific Riemannian metrics in fixed-rank matrix optimization: there is an equivalence between gradient flows under two geometries with shared spectra of Riemannian Hessians. A number of novel ideas and technical ingredients—including a unified treatment for different Riemannian metrics, novel metrics for the Stiefel manifold, and new horizontal space representations under quotient geometries—are developed to obtain our results. The results in this paper deepen our understanding of geometric and algorithmic connections of Riemannian optimization under different Riemannian geometries and provide a few new theoretical insights to unanswered questions in the literature.

Funding: X. Li was partially supported by National Key R&D Program of China [Grants 2020YFA0711900, 2020YFA0711901], the National Natural Science Foundation of China [Grants 12271107, 62141407], the Young Elite Scientists Sponsorship Program by CAST [Grant 2019QNRC001], the “Chenguang Program” by the Shanghai Education Development Foundation and Shanghai Municipal Education Commission [Grant 19CG02], the Shanghai Science and Technology Program [21JC1400600]. Y. Luo and A. R. Zhang were partially supported by the National Science Foundation [CAREER-2203741].
Mental health in the community: part one
Authors: Palmer Sarah Jane
Published: June 2023

Mental health issues are difficult yet common experiences. Considering that one in four people in England experience a mental health problem every year, it is essential that the community nurse has a good understanding of the different types of mental health problems faced by individuals, and be able to adequately provide care and support.

In part one of a two-part series on mental health in the community, Sarah Palmer provides details on some of the more common mental health conditions, and the support that primary care can provide to individuals experiencing mental health issues.
Knowing the difference!
Authors: Swain Pam
Published: June 2023

Pam Swain outlines the key differences between the British Association of Dental Nurses (BADN), the National Examining Board for Dental Nurses (NEBDN) and registrations with the General Dental Council (GDC).
Dental nurse training: key considerations
Authors: Keating Vicky
Published: June 2023

Vicky Keating gives an in depth look at a trainee dental nurse's experience.
Utility of preoperative MRI for assessing proximal fragment vascularity in scaphoid nonunion
Authors: Meaike Joshua J. , Meaike Jesse D. , Collins Mark S. , Bishop Allen T. , Shin Alexander Y.
Published: June 2023

Aims

The benefit of MRI in the preoperative assessment of scaphoid proximal fragment vascularity remains controversial. The purpose of this study is to compare preoperative MRI findings to intraoperative bleeding of the proximal scaphoid.

Methods

A retrospective review of 102 patients who underwent surgery for scaphoid nonunion between January 2000 and December 2020 at a single institution were identified. Inclusion criteria were: isolated scaphoid nonunion; preoperative MRI assessing the proximal fragment vascularity; and operative details of the vascularity of the proximal fragment with the tourniquet deflated. MRI results and intraoperative findings were dichotomized as either ‘yes’ or ‘no’ for the presence of vascularity. A four-fold contingency table was used to analyze the utility of preoperative MRI with 95% confidence intervals. Relative risk was calculated for subgroups to analyze the association between variables and MRI accuracy.

Results

Preoperative MRI identified 55 proximal scaphoid fragments with ischaemia and 47 with vascularized proximal fragments. After the proximal fragment was prepared, the tourniquet was deflated and assessed for bleeding; 63 proximal fragments had no bleeding and 39 demonstrated bleeding. MRI was not reliable or accurate in the assessment of proximal fragment vascularity when compared with intraoperative assessment of bleeding. No patient or MRI factors were identified to have a statistical impact on MRI accuracy.

Conclusion

Current preoperative MRI protocols and diagnostic criteria do not provide a high degree of correlation with observed intraoperative assessment of proximal fragment bleeding. While preoperative MRI may assist in surgical planning, intraoperative assessment remains the best means for assessing proximal fragment vascularity in scaphoid nonunion. Future efforts should focus on the development of objective measures of osseous blood flow that may be performed intraoperatively.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2023;105-B(6):657–662.
Primary total knee arthroplasty in patients with post-polio syndrome
Authors: Karczewski Daniel , Siljander Matthew P. , Larson Dirk R. , Taunton Michael J. , Lewallen David G. , Abdel Matthew P.
Published: June 2023

Aims

Knowledge on total knee arthroplasties (TKAs) in patients with a history of poliomyelitis is limited. This study compared implant survivorship and clinical outcomes among affected and unaffected limbs in patients with sequelae of poliomyelitis undergoing TKAs.

Methods

A retrospective review of our total joint registry identified 94 patients with post-polio syndrome undergoing 116 primary TKAs between January 2000 and December 2019. The mean age was 70 years (33 to 86) with 56% males (n = 65) and a mean BMI of 31 kg/m2 (18 to 49). Rotating hinge TKAs were used in 14 of 63 affected limbs (22%), but not in any of the 53 unaffected limbs. Kaplan-Meier survivorship analyses were completed. The mean follow-up was eight years (2 to 19).

Results

The ten-year survivorship free from revision was 91% (95% confidence interval (CI) 81 to 100) in affected and 84% (95% CI 68 to 100) in unaffected limbs. There were six revisions in affected limbs: three for periprosthetic femoral fractures and one each for periprosthetic joint infection (PJI), patellar clunk syndrome, and instability. Unaffected limbs were revised in four cases: two for instability and one each for PJI and tibial component loosening. The ten-year survivorship free from any reoperation was 86% (95% CI 75 to 97) and 80% (95% CI 64 to 99) in affected and unaffected limbs, respectively. There were three additional reoperations among affected and two in unaffected limbs. There were 12 nonoperative complications, including four periprosthetic fractures. Arthrofibrosis occurred in five affected (8%) and two unaffected limbs (4%). Postoperative range of motion decreased with 31% achieving less than 90° knee flexion by five years.

Conclusion

TKAs in post-polio patients are complex cases associated with instability, and one in four require constraint on the affected side. Periprosthetic fracture was the main mode of failure. Arthrofibrosis rates were high and twice as frequent in affected limbs.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2023;105-B(6):635–640.
Arthroscopic decompression of calcific tendinitis without cuff repair
Authors: Youn Seung-Min , Rhee Sung M. , Cho Soong-Hwan , Kim Cheol-Hwan , Lee Jong-Ung , Rhee Yong G.
Published: June 2023

Aims

The aim of this study was to investigate the outcomes of arthroscopic decompression of calcific tendinitis performed without repairing the rotator cuff defect.

Methods

A total of 99 patients who underwent treatment between December 2013 and August 2019 were retrospectively reviewed. Visual analogue scale (VAS) and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) scores were reviewed pre- and postoperatively according to the location, size, physical characteristics, and radiological features of the calcific deposits. Additionally, the influence of any residual calcific deposits shown on postoperative radiographs was explored. The healing rate of the unrepaired cuff defect was determined by reviewing the 29 patients who had follow-up MRIs.

Results

Statistically significant improvement from pre- to postoperation was seen in all VAS and ASES scores for each group, but no statistical differences were seen between the postoperative scores according to the differences in the features of the calcific deposits. When residual calcification was observed postoperatively, the mean ASES and VAS (rest) scores improved significantly to 95.0 (SD 5.6) and 0.0 (SD 0.0), respectively (p = 0.006 and p < 0.001), and did not differ from those who had the complete removal. Of 29 patients who had follow-up MRIs, six (20.7%) showed signs of an interstitial tear. This group’s mean postoperative ASES and VAS (rest) scores improved to excellent levels of 96.0 (SD 3.7) and 0.0 (SD 0.0), respectively, and were similar to those of the 23 patients with normal MRI appearances.

Conclusion

Arthroscopic removal of calcific deposits without repairing the rotator cuff defect resulted in significant improvement in function and pain level, regardless of the deposit’s location, size, type, and whether or not complete excision was achieved. Despite leaving the defects unrepaired, in the limited number of patients with follow-up MRIs, 23 of 29 patients (79.3%) showed good healing, and the rest, who had persistent signs of interstitial defects on the MRIs, still had excellent outcomes. The removal of calcific deposits without repairing the cuff defects provided excellent outcomes.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2023;105-B(6):663–667.
Impacto socioeconómico de la migración en Cuba, 2022
Authors: Ramón Sanabria Navarro José , Silveira Pérez Yahilina , Alejandro Niebles Nuñez William
Published: June 2023

Migration is undoubtedly one of the oldest demographic variables. Human beings by their nature have been driven for various reasons to explore other territories. However, currently migration is generally caused by various factors not being quite right in the issuing country, and/or by the receiving country offering better opportunities. This article addresses one of the most controversial issues in Cuban society, the impact of emigrating. The idea is to address where and why Cubans emigrate as well as its socioeconomic implications, based on an interpretive paradigm grounded in the conceptualisation of what emigrating means in theory, and the causes of this socioeconomic phenomenon in Cuba. Although previous studies on Cuban migration have focused on the exodus to the United States, this is not the only destination, as Cubans have increasingly emigrated to various other countries as well in recent years.
Imaginationen von Transkulturalität und Geschlecht
Authors: Lazičić Goran
Published: June 2023

Diese von Ingeborg Jandl, Goran Lazičić, Marizela Reithofer Bektić, Dijana Simić herausgegebene Festschrift würdigt das slawistische Wirken von Renate Hansen-Kokoruš, das in ebenso viele Literaturen, Kulturen und Themenbereiche hineinreicht wie dieser Band. Die hier versammelten Beiträge zu Transkulturalität und Geschlecht widmen sich zwei spezifischen, miteinander verwobenen Aspekten von Identität sowie der Frage nach ihrer erzählerischen Vermittlung. Anhand von Narrativen aus dem süd- und ostslawischen Raum werden exemplarische Einblicke in vielfältige kulturell geprägte Konstellationen gegeben. Diese führen vom Südosten Europas bis nach Sibirien, wobei auch Russlands Hauptstädte und Orte in Mitteleuropa wichtige­ Stationen der Reise bilden. Transgressive Bilder von Weiblichkeit und Männlichkeit sowie die Diskussion der damit verbundenen sozialen Rollenbilder sind dabei zentral, was sich in subversiven Identitätskonstruktionen und satirisch-kritischen Überlegungen äußert. Das untersuchte Spektrum an kanonischen und weniger bekannten Texten spannt einen Bogen vom 17. Jahrhundert bis in die Gegenwart.
Gender and Advertising: Representations of Femininities, Masculinities, and Nonbinary Identities
Authors: Contois Emily J. H.
Published: June 2023

Abstract: This ADText unit examines how advertising represents gender, taking into account women and femininities, men and masculinities, and a range of nonbinary identities. The unit begins by defining a number of key terms for studying gender. Then it analyzes a number of prominent themes, addressing how gender is represented in advertising from childhood through older age and in a variety of social settings and relationships: parenting and families, bodies, beauty, work and career, and social movements. This unit includes some historical ads from earlier in the twentieth century, but focuses primarily on recent examples, drawing from digital media and a sample of thirty-nine magazines available on newsstands in February 2022. Overall, advertising plays a significant role in shaping and reflecting ideas about gender. Despite current messaging that celebrates flourishing gender diversity, the advertising industry still has far to go when it comes to representing gender in ways that are just and inclusive.
Advertising, Sustainability, and the Environment: An Interview with Larry Olson and Jim Heekin
Authors: Gangadharbatla Harsha , Olson Larry , Heekin Jim
Published: June 2023

Abstract: This article presents a conversation between Professor Harsha Gangadharbatla and two advertising creatives, Jim Heekin and Larry Olson, on the importance of sustainability in advertising. They discuss the consumer demand for ethical and sustainable practices, as well as the moral obligation for brands to adopt them. The conversation also delves into the difficulties and rewards of environmental messaging, including the challenges of conveying often depressing and abstract information and the need to create experiences and communicate information that resonate with people. The group also talks about how brands are becoming more receptive to sustainable practices and how conscientious practitioners can effect change without having to quit their jobs. They also discuss the hurdles and rewards of personal conviction and staying committed to their principles in the face of financial challenges. Finally, they touch upon how young professionals can pursue a career in advertising without feeling deflated about consumerism's negative impact on the environment and how holding onto optimism can be a driving force for change.
Low responsiveness of peripheral lymphocytes in extraparenchymal neurocysticercosis
Authors: Romo Matthew L. , Osorio Rocio , Toledo Andrea , Carrillo-Mezo Roger , Valdez Ricardo , Romano Marta C. , Sciutto Edda , Fragoso Gladis , Fleury Agnès
Published: June 2023

Background

The morbidity and mortality of extraparenchymal neurocysticercosis (EP-NC) remain high and effectiveness of current medical treatment is suboptimal. Various factors have been implicated in the severity of EP-NC and in the poor response to treatment, but the possible role of host immune and endocrine systems has not yet been examined thoroughly.

Methodology/Principal findings

42 participants with EP-NC before receiving standard treatment and 25 healthy controls were included in the study. Treatment response was assessed by comparing pre/post treatment parasite volumes from 3D MRI. Prior to treatment among participants with EP-NC, specific stimulation induced an increased specific proliferative response accompanied by a significant increase in IL-4, NK, NKT, Bregs and Tregs cells, whereas in healthy controls, specific stimulation induced a significant increase in IL-1β, IL-5, CCL5, IL-6, TNF-α, NK and Bregs cells. Significant differences between participants with EP-NC and healthy controls in the specific inflammatory response were observed. Participants with EP-NC prior to treatment had significantly weaker responses of proinflammatory cytokines (IL-6, TNF-α) and NK cells, and stronger IL-4 response. Anthelmintic treatment did not promote significant peripheral immunological changes at any time, although inflammation was sustained in the cerebrospinal fluid. Serum estradiol concentration significantly decreased after anthelmintic treatment among males, and cortisol correlated negatively with IL-6 and positively with IFN-γ levels. No pre-treatment immunologic or endocrinologic parameters were significantly associated with response to treatment.

Conclusion/Significance

Prior to anthelmintic treatment, EP-NC was characterized by low lymphocyte reactivity accompanied by a regulatory response, which may be involved in the lack of peripheral immunological changes during and after treatment, although a central inflammatory response was present. This weak specific peripheral response could favor the chronicity of the infection and the poor response to treatment. Our findings highlight the need for new anti-inflammatory treatment focused on the central nervous system with less systemic immunosuppressive effects.
A human-neutral large carnivore? No patterns in the body mass of gray wolves across a gradient of anthropization
Authors: Cerri Jacopo , Musto Carmela , Stefanini Federico M. , di Nicola Umberto , Riganelli Nicoletta , Fontana Maria C. , Rossi Arianna , Garbarino Chiara , Merialdi Giuseppe , Ciuti Francesca , Berzi Duccio , Delogu Mauro , Apollonio Marco
Published: June 2023

The gray wolf (Canis lupus) expanded its distribution in Europe over the last few decades. To better understand the extent to which wolves could re-occupy their historical range, it is important to test if anthropization can affect their fitness-related traits. After having accounted for ecologically relevant confounders, we assessed how anthropization influencedi) the growth of wolves during their first year of age (n = 53),ii) sexual dimorphism between male and female adult wolves (n = 121), in a sample of individuals that had been found dead in Italy between 1999 and 2021. Wolves in anthropized areas have a smaller overall variation in their body mass, during their first year of age. Because they already have slightly higher body weight at 3–5 months, possibly due to the availability of human-derived food sources. The difference in the body weight of adult females and males slightly increases with anthropization. However, this happens because of an increase in the body mass of males only, possibly due to sex-specific differences in dispersal and/or to “dispersal phenotypes”. Anthropization in Italy does not seem to have any clear, nor large, effect on the body mass of wolves. As body mass is in turn linked to important processes, like survival and reproduction, our findings indicates that wolves could potentially re-occupy most of their historical range in Europe, as anthropized landscapes do not seem to constrain such of an important life-history trait. Wolf management could therefore be needed across vast spatial scales and in anthropized areas prone to social conflicts.
An Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis of the lived experience of sensuality expression among women over 50 years of age in Nigeria
Authors: Lawal Olubunmi Adeduntan , Duma Sinegugu Evidence
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Sensuality, an essential component of sexuality, is the enjoyment, expression, or pursuit of physical and sexual pleasure or satisfaction. Sensuality expression of women over 50 is under-researched and often ignored, making it difficult to have a scientific basis to develop age-appropriate healthy-ageing programmes for this group in Nigeria. An exploratory study was conducted to explore the lived experiences of the expression of sensuality of Nigerian women over 50 and the meaning they attach thereto.

Methodology

An Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis approach was used to collect and analyze data from 17 female teachers from three public secondary schools in Osun state, Nigeria, to represent a homogenous group of professional women over the age of 50. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to obtain qualitative data that was thematically analyzed.

Findings

Four superordinate themes emerged: ‘Self-reinvention to camouflage ageing realities for sensuality expression’; ‘Embracing own sensuality’; ‘Yearning for old self’; and ‘Loss of interest in romantic relationships’, with various subordinate themes.

Conclusion

These finding provide the basis to develop age-appropriate healthy-ageing programmes for this group, and a baseline for further sexual health research among this group of women in Nigeria, who are often overlooked or considered asexual due to their being beyond the reproductive age.
Limitations of transcutaneous carbon dioxide monitoring in apneic oxygenation
Authors: Schweizer Thilo , Hartwich Volker , Riva Thomas , Kaiser Heiko , Theiler Lorenz , Greif Robert , Nabecker Sabine
Published: June 2023

Background

High-flow nasal oxygenation is increasingly used during sedation procedures and general anesthesia in apneic patients. Transcutaneous CO2 (ptcCO2)-monitoring is used to monitor hypercapnia. This study investigated ptcCO2-monitoring during apneic oxygenation.

Methods

We included 100 patients scheduled for elective surgery under general anesthesia in this secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial. Before surgery, we collected ptcCO2 measured by TCM4 and TCM5 monitors and arterial blood gas (ABG) measurements every two minutes during 15 minutes of apnea. Bland-Altman plots analyzed agreement between measurement slopes; linear mixed models estimated the different measuring method effect, and outlined differences in slope and offset between transcutaneous and arterial CO2 partial pressures.

Results

Bland-Altman plots showed a bias in slope (95% confidence intervals) between ABG and TCM4-measurements of 0.05mmHg/min (-0.05 to 0.15), and limits of agreement were -0.88mmHg/min (-1.06 to -0.70) and 0.98mmHg/min (0.81 to 1.16). Bias between ABG and TCM5 was -0.14mmHg/min (-0.23 to -0.04), and limits of agreement were -0.98mmHg/min (-1.14 to -0.83) and 0.71mmHg/min (0.55 to 0.87). A linear mixed model (predicting the CO2-values) showed an offset between arterial and transcutaneous measurements of TCM4 (-15.2mmHg, 95%CI: -16.3 to -14.2) and TCM5 (-19.1mmHg, -20.1 to -18.0). Differences between the two transcutaneous measurements were statistically significant.

Conclusions

Substantial differences were found between the two transcutaneous measurement systems, and between them and ABG. Transcutaneous CO2 monitoring cannot replace arterial CO2-monitoring during apneic oxygenation. In clinical settings with rapidly changing CO2-values, arterial blood gas measurements are needed to reliably assess the CO2-partial pressure in blood.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT03478774).
Assessment of critical resource gaps in pediatric injury care in Mozambique’s four largest Hospitals
Authors: Amado Vanda , Couto Maria Tereza , Filipe Manuel , Möller Jette , Wallis Lee , Laflamme Lucie
Published: June 2023

Background

Hospitals from resource-scarce countries encounter significant barriers to the provision of injury care, particularly for children. Shortages in material and human resources are seldom documented, not least in African settings. This study analyzed pediatric injury care resources in Mozambique hospital settings.

Methods

We undertook a cross-sectional study, encompassing the country’s four largest hospitals. Data was collected in November 2020 at the pediatric emergency units. Assessment of the resources available was made with standardized WHO emergency equipment and medication checklists, and direct observation of premises and procedures. The potential impact of unavailable equipment and medications in pediatric wards was assessed considering the provisions of injury care.

Results

There were significant amounts of not available equipment and medications in all hospitals (ranging from 20% to 49%) and two central hospitals stood out in that regard. The top categories of not available equipment pertained to diagnosis and monitoring, safety for health care personnel, and airway management. Medications to treat infections and poisonings were those most frequently not available. There were several noteworthy and life-threatening shortcomings in how well the facilities were equipped for treating pediatric patients. The staff regarded lack of equipment and skills as the main obstacles to delivering quality injury care. Further, they prioritized the implementation of trauma courses and the establishment of trauma centers to strengthen pediatric injury care.

Conclusion

The country’s four largest hospitals had substantial quality-care threatening shortages due to lack of equipment and medications for pediatric injury care. All four hospitals face issues that put at risk staff safety and impede the implementation of essential care interventions for injured children. Staff wishes for better training, working environments adequately equipped and well-organized. The room for improvement is considerable, the study results may help to set priorities, to benefit better outcomes in child injuries.
Changes in Japanese physicians’ relationships with the pharmaceutical industry between 2008 and 2021: A national survey
Authors: Saito Sayaka , Mukohara Kei , Shimomura Kazuhiro , Murotani Kenta
Published: June 2023

Background

A national survey we conducted in 2008 showed that many Japanese physicians interacted with and received gifts from pharmaceutical representatives (PRs) and had a positive attitude toward relationships with PRs. The revised promotion code of the Japan Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Association in 2019 prohibited the provision of non-educational promotional aids including sticky notes, mouse pads, and calendars. During the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, face-to-face meetings were socially restricted. This study assessed the extent of current Japanese physicians’ involvement in pharmaceutical promotional activities and their attitudes toward relationships with PRs and to ascertain any changes between 2008 and 2021. We also examined the factors that predicted positive attitudes toward gifts from PRs.

Methods

From January to March 2021, we conducted a national mail survey of Japanese physicians in seven specialties: internal medicine, surgery, orthopedics, pediatrics, obstetrics-gynecology, psychiatry, and ophthalmology.

Results

There were 1636 participants and the response rate was 63.2%. Most physicians met face-to-face with PRs (78.8%), whereas only a minority received meals outside the workplace (4.5%). PRs were thought to have an important role in continuing medical education (66.1%) and to provide accurate information about new drugs (74.2%). Opinions were divided on the appropriateness of gifts from PRs. Most thought that stationery and meals provided by the industry did not affect prescribing behavior (89.7% and 75.8%, respectively). Factors that predicted a positive attitude toward gifts from PRs were male, orthopedic specialty vs. internal medicine, more interactions with PRs, a positive attitude toward informational value, and no rules banning meetings with PRs.

Conclusion

Involvement in pharmaceutical promotional activities is still common among practicing physicians in Japan, although the extent of the involvement had declined. Rules banning meetings with PRs appear to continue being effective at limiting a physician’s involvement with promotional activities and their critical attitudes toward gifts from PRs.
The impact of sarcopenia on clinical outcomes in men with metastatic castrate-resistant prostate cancer
Authors: Papadopoulos Efthymios , Wong Andy Kin On , Law Sharon Hiu Ching , Zhang Lindsey Ze Jing , Breunis Henriette , Emmenegger Urban , Alibhai Shabbir M. H.
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Sarcopenia is common in men with metastatic castrate-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) and has been largely assessed opportunistically through computed-tomography (CT) scans, excluding measures of muscle function. Therefore, the impact of a comprehensive assessment of sarcopenia on clinical outcomes in men with mCRPC is poorly understood. The objectives of this study were to comprehensively assess sarcopenia through CT scans and measures of muscle function and examine its impact on severe treatment toxicity, time to first emergency room (ER) visit, disease progression, and overall mortality in men initiating chemotherapy or androgen receptor-targeted axis (ARAT) therapy for mCRPC.

Methods

This was a secondary analysis of a prospective observational study of men with mCRPC at the Princess Margaret Cancer Centre between July 2015-May 2021. Participants were classified as sarcopenic if they had CT-based low muscle mass or low muscle density, a grip strength and gait speed score of <35.5kg and <0.8m/s, respectively, prior to treatment initiation. The impact of sarcopenia on severe treatment toxicity was assessed using multivariable logistic regression. Multivariable Cox regression models were used to determine the impact of sarcopenia on risk of visiting the ER, prostate-specific antigen progression, radiographic progression, and overall mortality.

Results

A total of 110 men (mean age: 74.6) were included in the analysis. At baseline, 30 (27.3%) were classified as sarcopenic. Sarcopenia was a significant predictor of severe toxicity (aOR = 6.26, 95%CI = 1.17–33.58, P = 0.032) and ER visits (aHR = 4.41, 95%CI = 1.26–15.43, p = 0.020) in men initiating ARAT but not in men initiating chemotherapy. Sarcopenia was also a predictor of radiographic progression (aHR = 2.39, 95%CI = 1.06–5.36, p = 0.035) and overall mortality (aHR = 2.44, 95%CI = 1.17–5.08, p = 0.018) regardless of treatment type.

Conclusions

Baseline sarcopenia predicts radiographic progression and overall mortality in men with mCRPC regardless of the type of treatment and may also predict severe treatment toxicity and ER visits in men initiating ARAT.
Species independence of eye lens dimensions in teleosts and elasmobranchs
Authors: Leifsdóttir Rannveig Rögn , Campana Steven E.
Published: June 2023

The vertebrate eye lens grows incrementally, adding layers of elongated, tightly packed lens fiber cells at the outer margin of the lens. With subsequent growth, previously-deposited fiber cells degrade, leaving a region of fully denucleated and organelle-free cells which are responsible for the high transparency and low light scattering characteristics of the lens. The objective of this study was to determine if the horizon separating the gelatinous outer cortex of the lens from its hardened interior occurred at a consistent location within the lens of several teleost and elasmobranch fish species, and could be linked to fiber cell morphology or function. A fixed ratio of 0.69±0.01 of hardened eye lens diameter (HD) to overall eye lens diameter (LD) was observed in a broad size range of Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua), haddock (Melanogrammus aeglefinus), thorny skate (Amblyraja radiata) and round ray (Rajella fyllae). The location of the hardened lens horizon was similar to that reported for optical plasticity and spherical aberration, but not that of fiber cell denucleation, suggesting that fiber cell dehydration continues after the loss of internal organelles. Our findings support a previous suggestion that the maintenance of optical quality during fish eye lens growth requires a precisely-fixed HD:LD ratio, while the ubiquity of a fixed ratio across fish taxa may suggest that many fish species possess a common refractive index profile. The linear relationship between HD and fish length should allow fish length to be backcalculated from the diameter of the isolated lens core, thus aiding research using isotope ratios of lens laminae or inner cores to reconstruct early life history events.