bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Organizational norms of sexual harassment and gender discrimination in Danish academia: From recognizing through contesting to queering pervasive rhetorical legitimation strategies
Authors: Guschke Bontu Lucie , Just Sine Nørholm , Muhr Sara Louise
Published: November 2022

Studies of sexual harassment in professional contexts, including academia, provide detailed explanations of the predominance and pervasiveness of sexist organizational norms that enable harassing behavior—and offer a thorough critique of the structures and practices that support and reproduce these norms. When sexist organizational norms are linked to acts of sexual harassment, it becomes clear that harassment is systemic, and that organizations tend to justify and excuse the very norms and behaviors that propagate harassment. Focusing on the context of Danish universities, we do not ask whether sexism exists in Danish society generally and in academia specifically, but rather, why issues of systemic sexism and normalized sexual harassment have been ignored for so long and how sexist organizational norms have been maintained. Based on an investigation of prevalent rhetorical strategies for legitimating sexual harassment and gendered discrimination, we discuss how recognizing these strategies may translate into concerted action against them. Introducing queer organization studies as a lever for such translation, we suggest that a norm‐critical approach may, first, explain how currently dominant norms offer sexist excuses for continued harassment and, consequently, delegitimize and change these unjust norms and the untenable practices they support.
A postcolonial and pan‐African feminist reading of Zimbabwean women entrepreneurs
Authors: Imas J. Miguel , Garcia‐Lorenzo Lucia
Published: November 2022

This paper challenges the Eurocentric entrepreneurship narrative from postcolonial and pan‐African feminist perspectives. Based on interview research conducted with 24 Zimbabwean women entrepreneurs, we narrate their microstorias in order to expose the legacy of entrepreneurial colonialism and patriarchy in Africa. The microstorias reveal the colonial past as well as the patriarchal norms that disenfranchise women entrepreneurs in Zimbabwe. Yet, they also reveal their struggle, resilience, resistance and their ongoing fight to construct their own identities as entrepreneurs. The paper contributes to enhance and advance further postcolonial, decolonial and critical voices in entrepreneurship and organization studies by challenging the prevailing western discourse of entrepreneurship from the introduction of necroentrepreneurism; giving support to intersectional postcolonial and Pan‐African feminist perspectives that voice global South women entrepreneurship and, by decolonizing and decentring the theoretical debates on entrepreneurship and organization.
Assessment of penetration and permeation of caffeine by confocal Raman spectroscopy in vivo and ex vivo by tape stripping
Authors: Kourbaj Ghaith , Gaiser Annette , Bielfeldt Stephan , Lunter Dominique
Published: November 2022

Objective

Tape stripping is an often‐used non‐invasive destructive method to investigate the skin penetration of a substance. In recent years, however, the suitability of confocal Raman spectroscopy (CRS) as a non‐invasive method of non‐destructive examination of the skin has become increasingly apparent. In this study, we compared invasion and depletion penetration and permeation kinetics of a 2% caffeine solution with and without 1,2‐pentanediol as a penetration enhancer measured with CRS and tape stripping.

Methods

Porcine skin was used for tape stripping and human skin for CRS. 2% caffeine solution was applied to the skin for different incubation times. Human skin was then examined by CRS while caffeine was extracted from porcine skin and quantified via reverse‐phase HPLC. Fluxes were also measured and calculated by sum of the total amounts of caffeine penetrated into the skin.

Results

Without penetration enhancers, there is hardly any difference between the penetration profiles of the two measurement methods for invasion, but the curves for depletion are different. Furthermore, the calculated flux values for the invasion are almost identical, but for the depletion the tape stripping values are about twice as high as the CRS values.

Conclusion

The relevance of conducting invasion and depletion studies became clear and was able to show the still existing problems in the comparability of CRS and tape stripping.
Migration analysis and health impact assessment of phthalates in takeaway food packaging materials
Authors: Wang Minhao , Liu Yifei , Liang Guiyu , Ding Hongran , Zhou Xiao , Qin Sujie , Zhao Peng , Han Lei
Published: November 2022

Plasticizers are commonly utilized as packaging additives in the food service industry. The takeaway food sector provides convenience to consumers, but also raises the risk of human exposure to plasticizers. The goal of this study is to determine the amount of phthalates in takeaway food packaging and compare the migration amounts under various situations. A comprehensive health impact assessment of phthalates was conducted to provide the evaluation of human's daily exposure to phthalates. The results revealed that five phthalates (di (2‐ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), butyl benzyl phthalate (BBP), diethyl phthalate (DEP), dimethyl phthalate (DMP), dibutyl phthalate (DBP)) could be detected in n‐hexane extract of plastic food packaging materials at room temperature. High amount of phthalates was correlated with high temperature or in an oily food simulant solvent. Phthalate contents in dietary exposure did not surpass the concentration that could represent a risk to human health, based on the dietary exposure evaluation.
Transgenerational impacts of oral probiotic administration in pregnant mice on offspring gut immune cells and colitis susceptibility
Authors: Okada Yoshikiyo , Sugihara Nao , Nishii Shin , Itoh Suguru , Mizoguchi Akinori , Tanemoto Rina , Horiuchi Kazuki , Tomioka Akira , Nishimura Hiroyuki , Higashiyama Masaaki , Narimatsu Kazuyuki , Kurihara Chie , Tomita Kengo , Miura Soichiro , Tsuzuki Yoshikazu , Hokari Ryota
Published: November 2022

Background and Aim

The study of the impact of environmental factors during pregnancy on fetal development has so far been focused primarily on those negatively affecting human health; however, little is known about the effects of probiotic treatment during pregnancy on inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). In this study, we investigated whether oral administration of heat‐killed probiotics isolated from fermented foods decreased the vulnerability of offspring to IBD.

Methods

Probiotics were administered to the pregnant mice until the birth of pups, after which the parent mice were maintained with autoclaved water. Partial pups were evaluated for dextran sodium sulfate‐induced colitis. The influence of CD11c+ CD103+ dendritic cells (DCs) and regulatory T cells (Tregs) in mesenteric lymph nodes of parent mice and their pups was analyzed.

Results

Oral administration of heat‐killed probiotics to pregnant dams significantly decreased inflammation induced by dextran sodium sulfate in pups. Probiotic treatment increased the number of CD103+ DCs, and the expression of β8‐integrin in CD103+ DCs and Tregs in mesenteric lymph nodes, not only in dams themselves but also in their offspring.

Conclusions

Oral administration of probiotics during gestation induced transgenerational immunomodulatory effects on the gut‐associated immune system and resilience to experimental colitis in the offspring. Our results suggest that consumption of fermented foods during pregnancy can be effective in preventing inflammatory diseases such as IBD beyond generation.
The critical role of IFNγ in the epidermotropic migration of lymphocytes in oral lichen planus
Authors: Wang Yuhong , Wei Minghui , Wang Yuanyuan , Liu Yuan , Wang Xinwen
Published: November 2022

Introduction

The chemokines play a crucial role in the recruitment of lymphocytes in oral lichen planus, and the activated epithelial cells are the main producers of the chemokines. However, the signals provoking chemokine secretion still remain to be elucidated.

Methods

The global expression profile of chemokines in oral epithelial cell line induced by IFNγ was determined by microarray analysis. The gene and protein expression was validated in primary culture of oral epithelial cells, and the effects of IFNγ on regulating chemokine production were compared with that of TNFα and IL2. Moreover, the capability of primary culture of oral epithelial cells to attract peripheral lymphocytes in response to IFNγ was investigated in oral lichen planus patients, and the cell phenotype of the recruited lymphocytes was analyzed using flow cytometry.

Results

IFNγ triggered the expression of multiple chemokines in the oral epithelial cells. The expression pattern of the chemokines closely resembled that in the epithelial cell layer of oral lichen planus lesions. Compared with IL2 and TNFα, IFNγ demonstrated a distinct maximal effect on the chemokines secretion in primary culture of oral epithelial cells. The migration of peripheral lymphocytes toward the culture supernatant of IFNγ‐treated primary culture of oral epithelial cells was significantly enhanced in the oral lichen planus group compared to that in the healthy control group.

Conclusion

IFNγ plays an important role in the chemokine secretion and epidermotropic migration of lymphocytes in oral lichen planus.
Underreporting of energy intake is not associated with the reported consumption of NOVA‐classified food groups in socially vulnerable women
Authors: Santos Brida Maria C. , Praxedes Dafiny R. S. , Silva‐Junior André Eduardo , Macena Mateus de Lima , Florêncio Telma Maria de Menezes Toledo , Bueno Nassib Bezerra
Published: November 2022

Few studies have investigated which types of food are least reported among underreporters of energy intake (EI). This study assessed the association between the underreporting of EI and the consumption report of food groups according to NOVA classification in women in social vulnerability. EI was measured through three 24‐h dietary recalls administered by the research team. Total energy expenditure (TEE) was evaluated using the doubly labelled water method. The percentage of EI arising from each NOVA group food classification (unprocessed/minimally processed foods, culinary ingredients, processed foods and ultra‐processed foods [UPF]) was calculated. The agreement between the EI and the TEE was assessed using the ratio EI:TEE. Associations were assessed with Pearson's correlation and multivariable linear regression, adjusted for age, education and body fat. The sample (63 women, age: 30.8 years, Body Mass Index: 27.6 kg/m2) reported an EI of 1849 kcal and a TEE of 2223 kcal, with a mean EI:TEE of 0.85. There were no significant correlations between the EI:TEE and the reported food intake according to NOVA classifications. Multivariable linear regression also did not show any significant associations (UPF: 8.47, 95% CI: [−3.65; 20.60] %kcal; Processed: −6.85, [−19.21; 7.71] %kcal; Culinary ingredients: 1.30 [−5.10; 7.71] %kcal; Unprocessed/minimally processed: −2.92 [−10.98; 5.13] %kcal). In conclusion, socially vulnerable women that underreport their EI do not report a lower intake of any specific group of foods according to NOVA classification.
Anti‐N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate receptor encephalitis with concurrent human herpes virus‐6A deoxyribonucleic acid detection: An autopsy case
Authors: Shimohama Sho , Iizuka Takahiro , Takizawa Tsubasa , Watanabe Narumi , Tezuka Toshiki , Matsuda Kosuke , Yamanoi Kazuhiro , Kanazawa Naomi , Kawamura Yoshiki , Yoshikawa Tetsushi , Suzuki Tadaki , Takao Masaki , Nakahara Jin , Izawa Yoshikane
Published: November 2022

We report an autopsy case of anti‐N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate (NMDA) receptor (NMDAR) encephalitis with concurrent human herpes virus‐6 (HHV‐6) A deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) detection in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). A 38‐year‐old previously healthy Japanese man presented with a generalized seizure. Brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings were unremarkable, but CSF revealed pleocytosis. On Day 11, HHV‐6 DNA was detected in CSF, and IgG antibodies against the NR1 subunit of the NMDAR (GluN1) were subsequently detected. Since HHV‐6 encephalitis was initially suspected, the patient was treated with foscarnet and ganciclovir, but the HHV‐6A copy number increased from 200 (Day 22) to 2000 copies/mL (Day 47), and the therapy was ineffective. As typical symptoms of anti‐NMDAR encephalitis developed, we changed the patient's treatment to combat anti‐NMDAR encephalitis. He was repeatedly treated with first‐line immunotherapy, and GluN1 antibody titer decreased. He was not treated with second‐line immunotherapy because of recurrent infections; he died on Day 310. Postmortem examinations did not show systemic tumors. Microscopic examination of the brain revealed only severe neuronal rarefaction in the hippocampal cornu ammonis (CA) 3–4 areas with gliosis. Early initiation of aggressive immunotherapy may be required in a refractory case of anti‐NMDAR encephalitis, even with HHV‐6A DNA detection, because the significance of this concurrent detection in autoimmune encephalitis remains unclear.
Ecological corridors homogenize plant root endospheric mycobiota
Authors: Hu Jie , Vandenkoornhuyse Philippe , Khalfallah Fadwa , Causse‐Védrines Romain , Mony Cendrine
Published: November 2022

Ecological corridors promote species coexistence in fragmented habitats where dispersal limits species fluxes. The corridor concept was developed and investigated with macroorganisms in mind, while microorganisms, the invisible majority of biodiversity, were disregarded.

We analyzed the effect of corridors on the dynamics of endospheric fungal assemblages associated with plant roots at the scale of 1 m over 2 years (i.e. at five time points) by combining an experimental corridor‐mesocosm with high‐throughput amplicon sequencing.

We showed that plant root endospheric mycobiota were sensitive to corridor effects when the corridors were set up at a small spatial scale. The endospheric mycobiota of connected plants had higher species richness, lower beta‐diversity, and more deterministic assembly than the mycobiota of isolated plants. These effects became more pronounced with the development of host plants.

Biotic corridors composed of host plants may thus play a key role in the spatial dynamics of microbial communities and may influence microbial diversity and related ecological functions.
Exploring experiences of loneliness among Canadian long‐term care residents during the COVID‐19 pandemic: A qualitative study
Authors: Smith Chelsea B. , Wong Karen Lok Yi , To‐Miles Flora , Dunn Sheila , Gregorio Mario , Wong Lily , Tam Samantha , Huynh Polly , Hung Lillian
Published: November 2022

Background

The COVID‐19 pandemic has significant impact on long‐term care (LTC) residents’ health and well‐being.

Objectives

This study investigated resident experiences of loneliness during the COVID‐19 pandemic in Canadian LTC homes to offer lessons learned and implications.

Methods

15 residents and 16 staff members were recruited from two large urban Canadian LTC homes with large outbreaks and fatalities. We used a telepresence robot to conduct one‐on‐one semi‐structured interviews with participants remotely. We applied the Collaborative Action Research (CAR) methodology and report the early phase of CAR focused on collecting data and reporting findings to inform actions for change. Thematic analysis was performed to identify themes.

Results

Four themes were identified. The first two themes characterise what commonly generated feelings of loneliness amongst residents, including (1) social isolation and missing their family and friends and (2) feeling hopeless and grieving for lives lost. The second two themes describe what helped residents alleviate loneliness, including (3) social support and (4) creating opportunities for recreation and promoting positivity.

Conclusions

Residents living in LTC experienced significant social isolation and grief during the pandemic that resulted in loneliness and other negative health consequences.

Implications for practice

Promoting meaningful connection, safe recreational activities and a positive atmosphere in LTC homes during the pandemic may help mitigate residents’ experiences of loneliness due to social isolation and/or grief and enhance their quality of life.
Valuable and pernicious collective intellectual self‐trust1
Authors: El Kassar Nadja
Published: November 2022

Recent years have seen a shift in epistemological studies of intellectual self‐trust or epistemic self‐trust: intellectual self‐trust is not merely epistemologists’ tool for silencing epistemic skepticism or doubt, it is recognized as a disposition of individuals and collectives interesting in its own rights. In this exploratory article I focus on a particular type of intellectual self‐trust—collective intellectual self‐trust—and I examine which features make for valuable or pernicious collective intellectual self‐trust. From accounts of the value of individual intellectual self‐trust I take three frameworks for evaluating collective intellectual self‐trust: an epistemically consequentialist, a virtue‐theoretic and a prudential/pragmatic framework (§2). Then I introduce collective intellectual self‐trust (§3). Against this background I explain what is distinctive of valuable collective intellectual self‐trust (§4) and pernicious collective intellectual self‐trust (§5) within the three frameworks. I close by discussing the relation between the three frameworks and argue that evaluating intellectual self‐trust requires a multi‐perspectival approach constituted by the three frameworks.
Latent profile analysis of cognitive function and depressive symptoms in Chinese elderly: results from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study
Authors: Wang Chengjue , Wei Chengxia , Hong Huifang , Wei Wei , Lu Gendi
Published: November 2022

Background

Geriatric cognitive impairment often occurs in conjunction with depressive symptoms. This study focuses on categorising the Chinese elderly with such co‐occurring symptoms into homogeneous groups using latent profile analysis (LPA), a person‐centred statistical approach.

Methods

Information on cognitive function and depressive states of the elderly was extracted from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study. The underlying characteristics were identified by LPA, and based on those findings, differences in demographic characteristics of different subgroups were explored by chi‐squared test and analysis of variance.

Results

A total of 6710 Chinese elderly who met the inclusion criteria were selected from the dataset. Four subgroups were identified among this sample by LPA, based on cognitive function associated with depressive symptoms, and named in this study as follows: mild cognitive impairment (n= 3747, 55.84%), moderate cognitive impairment (n= 1306, 19.46%), mild cognitive impairment combined with depressive symptoms (n= 1114, 16.6%), and moderate cognitive impairment combined with depression (n= 543, 8.09%). Age, gender, marital status, and educational level were all significantly different across subgroups (P < 0.001); religious belief and pension mode, however, were not (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

In the present study, four subgroups of cognitive function combined with depressive symptoms were found in Chinese elderly individuals, and differences in demographic factors were noted between the subgroups. In clinical practise, these findings could help clinical workers identify patients accurately and consider the demographic features of each subgroup when designing medical treatment, care, and rehabilitation programmes for those with cognitive impairment and concomitant depressive symptoms.
Neural response to social but not monetary reward predicts increases in depressive symptoms during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Freeman Clara , Panier Lidia , Schaffer Joelle , Weinberg Anna
Published: November 2022

The prevalence of depressive symptoms has increased during the COVID‐19 pandemic, especially among those with greater pandemic‐related stress exposure; however, not all individuals exposed to pandemic stress will develop depression. Determining which individuals are vulnerable to depressive symptoms as a result of this stress could lead to an improved understanding of the etiology of depression. This study sought to determine whether neural sensitivity to monetary and/or social reward prospectively predicts depressive symptoms during periods of high stress. 121 participants attended pre‐pandemic laboratory visits where they completed monetary and social reward tasks while electroencephalogram was recorded. Subsequently, from March to August 2020, we sent eight questionnaires probing depressive symptoms and exposure to pandemic‐related stressors. Using repeated‐measures multilevel models, we evaluated whether neural response to social or monetary reward predicted increases in depressive symptoms across the early course of the pandemic. Furthermore, we examined whether neural response to social or monetary reward moderated the association between pandemic‐related episodic stressors and depressive symptoms. Pandemic‐related stress exposure was strongly associated with depressive symptoms. Additionally, we found that blunted neural response to social but not monetary reward predicted increased depressive symptoms during the pandemic. However, neither neural response to social nor monetary reward moderated the association between episodic stress exposure and depressive symptoms. Our findings indicate that neural response to social reward may be a useful predictor of depressive symptomatology under times of chronic stress, particularly stress with a social dimension.
Hospital nurses' experiences and expectations of compassion and compassionate leadership
Authors: Salminen‐Tuomaala Mari , Seppälä Satu
Published: November 2022

Rationale and Aim

Nurses caring for critically ill patients need compassionate attention and support, especially during exceptional times. The aim of this study was to provide a trustworthy description of nurses' experiences and expectations for compassionate leadership and compassion at a central hospital in Finland. The study was conducted during the early stage of the coronavirus 2019 pandemic.

Ethical Issues and Approval

The voluntary nature and anonymity of the survey were stressed in the cover letter, to make sure that participants did not perceive any undue influence caused by participating in the study.

Methods

The participants were 50 intensive care and emergency nurses of a central hospital. An online survey tool with open questions was used to collect data on the meaning of compassion and on nurses' experiences and expectations of compassion and compassionate leadership. Inductive content analysis was used to analyse the data.

Results

The nurses reported a great variety of positive experiences of compassion, although the emphasis in this study seemed to be on the absence of compassion, especially in regard to leadership. The nurses expected individual attention and genuine physical and psychological presence from their immediate supervisors.

Study Limitations

One researcher analysed the data, which can cause some bias in the qualitative analysis.

Conclusions

Immediate supervisors express compassion by being physically present and by fostering an open dialogue. Compassion received from leaders and colleagues may be reproduced in patient contacts, which can increase patients' confidence and psychological safety. Participatory and simulation‐based learning methods, which involve shared reflection, are recommended for compassionate leadership skills.
Political regimes and financial crises
Authors: Hasanov Rashad , Bhattacharya Prasad Sankar
Published: November 2022

This study investigates how democratic or autocratic regimes, their transitions, and durations, affect the probability of experiencing financial crises. The empirical strategy employs novel instruments and Lewbel's method to address potential endogeneity concerns. The results reveal that democratic transition reduces the probability of crises by around seven percent, whereas autocratic switchovers enhance the crises likelihood by twelve percent. The findings remain robust in presence of a number of heterogeneity checks, with alternative measures of crises indicators, and employing different proxy for democratic transition. Thus, institutions in transition countries could play important role in managing such financial upheavals.
Asking for help as a key to success: The relationship between student help‐seeking skills and mathematics self‐efficacy
Authors: Miles Sandra J. , Vela Katherine N.
Published: November 2022

According to Social Cognitive Theory, self‐efficacy describes students' beliefs in their ability to be successful within a certain task or domain. Though some contributions to self‐efficacy are generally accepted, it is important to continue to look for additional factors that contribute to self‐efficacy, especially those that provide opportunities for educators to improve their students' self‐efficacy. This study uses regression analyses on a sample (n = 225) of undergraduate students to examine the unique contribution that help‐seeking beliefs make to mathematical self‐efficacy. Results show that help‐seeking beliefs have a positive relationship with self‐efficacy and make a unique, positive contribution to self‐efficacy even when controlling for other sources of self‐efficacy. Results suggest the need for educators to improve student help‐seeking beliefs by purposefully teaching help‐seeking skills and providing more access to effective, individualized help for students.
Uncertainty reduction in residual stress measurements by an optimised inverse solution using nonconsecutive polynomials
Authors: Brítez Diego L. , Prime Michael B. , Werda Sana , Laheurte Raynald , Darnis Philippe , Cahuc Olivier
Published: November 2022

Many destructive methods for measuring residual stresses such as the slitting method require an inverse analysis to solve the problem. The accuracy of the result as well as an uncertainty component (the model uncertainty) depends on the basis functions used in the inverse solution. The use of a series expansion as the basis functions for the inverse solution was analysed in a previous work for the particular case where functions orders grew consecutively. The present work presents a new estimation of the model uncertainty and a new improved methodology to select the final basis functions for the case where the basis is composed of polynomials. Including nonconsecutive polynomial orders in the basis generates a larger space of possible solutions to be evaluated and allows the possibility to include higher‐order polynomials. The paper includes a comparison with two other inverse analyses methodologies applied to synthetically generated data. With the new methodology, the final error is reduced and the uncertainty estimation improved.
Prenatal management of fetal anemia due to pyruvate kinase deficiency: A case report
Authors: Maisonneuve Emeline , Sohier Lepine Marlène , Maurice Paul , Pissard Serge , Lafon Bertrand , Mailloux Agnès , Dhombres Ferdinand , Leverger Guy , Jouannic Jean‐Marie
Published: November 2022

Background

Pyruvate Kinase (PK) deficiency is the most common enzyme defect of glycolysis, leading to congenital hemolytic anemia, which can occur during the neonatal period.

Study Design and Methods

We report the prenatal management of fetal anemia related to PK deficiency in a family with a severe proband.

Results

The couple had a first child born with hydrops, whose PK deficiency was diagnosed at 18 months of life. He was treated with allogeneic bone marrow transplantation. The second child was free from disease. For the third pregnancy, the amniocentesis revealed a PK deficiency. Weekly ultrasound monitoring of the middle cerebral artery velocity allowed the detection of severe fetal anemia. Two intrauterine red blood cell transfusions (IUTs) were performed, raising the fetal hemoglobin from 6.6 to 14.5 g/dl at 28 weeks' gestation and from 8.9 to 15.3 g/dl at 31 weeks. A hematopoietic stem cell allograft was discussed prenatally but not chosen, as it would not have significantly changed the perinatal prognosis. The patient delivered a 2730 g girl at 37 weeks, with hemoglobin of 13.6 g/dl. The child presented with neonatal jaundice treated with phototherapy and received postnatal transfusions.

Discussion

When a proband is identified in a family, fetal investigation is warranted, to set up third‐trimester ultrasound surveillance and perinatal management. In case of fetal severe anemia of unknown etiology, the workup on fetal blood sampling before IUT should comprise the search for erythrocytes enzymopathies, such as PK deficiency. IUTs allow safer full‐term delivery in cases with PK deficiency.
Una carga que complica la vida. la experiencia de iniciar una enfermedad crónica no transmisible. un estudio fenomenológico
Authors: Duque Ortiz Camilo , López Herrera Francy Edith , Escobar Muñoz María Patricia , García Duque Jenifer
Published: November 2022

Objetivo: Describir la experiencia que viven las personas al inicio de la enfermedad crónica no transmisible (ECNT).
Metodología: Estudio cualitativo desarrollado bajo el método de la fenomenología interpretativa. Se realizó entre julio de 2019 y julio de 2020 en la ciudad de Medellín, Colombia. Participaron diez personas con enfermedades crónicas no transmisibles tales como falla cardiaca, hipertensión arterial, diabetes, enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica e insuficiencia renal crónica. La información se recolectó por medio de entrevistas semiestructuradas. El análisis de datos se hizo a través de la estrategia del Análisis Fenomenológico Interpretativo y con el apoyo del software NVIVO Plus 12.
Resultados: Se identificó que la experiencia de las personas al iniciar con una enfermedad crónica no transmisible se representa por medio de tres temas, a saber: “darse cuenta de que está enfermo”, “resistirse a estar enfermo” e “irse complicando la vida”.
Conclusiones: Entre más temprano se tome consciencia de estar enfermo, se posibilita una mejor actitud hacia la enfermedad, adherencia al tratamiento y una posible disminución o retraso de complicaciones derivadas de la misma. También, se identifica que los pacientes libran una batalla interna en el proceso de aceptación de la enfermedad, lo que repercute en su estado emocional. Llegar a aceptar la ECNT implica una transformación forzosa, resignada y obligada de las conductas, los hábitos y los aprendizajes tradicionalmente arraigados.
Concepções universitárias acerca da violência sexual contra a mulher no Nordeste do Brasil
Authors: Rocha Aguiar Francisca Alanny , Dourado João Victor Lira , Magalhães da Silva Raimunda , Fontenele Cavalcanti Ludmila , Eyre de Souza Vieira Luiza Jane , Rodrigues Ferreira Júnior Antonio
Published: November 2022

O estudo objetivou analisar a abordagem do ensino sobre a violência sexual contra a mulher na graduação de enfermagem, medicina, psicologia e serviço social. Estudo qualitativo realizado em duas instituições de ensino superior da região norte do estado do Ceará, Brasil. Participaram 43 pessoas, as quais representavam gestão (quatro), docentes (20) e discentes (19), e responderam à entrevista semiestruturada no período de março e novembro de 2018. Para a organização dos dados, utilizou-se a análise de conteúdo, que originou três temáticas: concepções da violência sexual contra a mulher, invisibilidade de conteúdo sobre o tema na graduação e lacunas teóricas e práticas na formação profissional. Os participantes revelaram a necessidade de inclusão do tema “violência sexual” no processo de ensino, pesquisa e extensão das universidades. Os resultados sustentam assimetria entre os cursos investigados e incipiente discussão sobre a violência sexual contra a mulher nas instituições de ensino.
Review of the Basic Elastic Mechanical Properties and Their Realignment to Establish Ductile Versus Brittle Failure Behaviors
Authors: Christensen Richard M.
Published: November 2022

The underlying formalism of isotropic elasticity theory is shown to benefit from a review and re-examination of its structure thereby yielding a re-alignment of the basic moduli type properties. When this is accomplished the pathway to understanding ductile versus brittle failure behaviors becomes much more accessible. The ductile/brittle transition in uni-axial tension then admits a simple and direct specification in terms of the two elastic moduli 2 μ and k. The consequences of these results are discussed in the context of general failure theory.
Design of resonant elastodynamic metasurfaces to control S Lamb waves using topology optimization
Authors: Giraldo Guzman Daniel , Pillarisetti Lalith Sai Srinivas , Sridhar Sashank , Lissenden Cliff J. , Frecker Mary , Shokouhi Parisa
Published: November 2022

Control of guided waves has applications across length scales ranging from surface acoustic wave devices to seismic barriers. Resonant elastodynamic metasurfaces present attractive means of guided wave control by generating frequency stop-bandgaps using local resonators. This work addresses the systematic design of these resonators using a density-based topology optimization formulated as an eigenfrequency matching problem that tailors antiresonance eigenfrequencies. The effectiveness of our systematic design methodology is presented in a case study, where topologically optimized resonators are shown to prevent the propagation of the S0 wave mode in an aluminum plate.
Indian Endurance Athletes’ Menstrual Cycle: Practices, Knowledge, Communication, Health, and Changes in Perceptions Across the Phases
Authors: Majumder Tanugatri , De Martin Topranin Virginia , Sandbakk Øyvind , Noordhof Dionne A.
Published: November 2022

Purpose: To describe menstrual cycle (MC)-related practices, knowledge, communication, and health in Indian endurance athletes and to investigate the changes in their perception of sleep quality, readiness to train, training quality, fitness, and performance across the MC. Methods: Data on female Indian athletes (N = 96, age 22 [3] y) competing in 7 endurance sports at (inter)national and state level were collected using an online questionnaire. A Friedman rank sum test was used to assess changes in sleep quality, readiness to train, training quality, fitness, and performance across MC phases (ie, during, immediately after, and just before the bleeding phase). Results: Most of the athletes showed poor MC-related practices and suboptimal knowledge and communication about the MC. Despite no clear signs of serious health conditions, many athletes (63.5%) experienced irregular bleeding phases, particularly during periods with high exercise intensity or high training volume (54.4%). Perceived sleep quality, readiness to train, fitness, performance, and the quality of high-intensity and strength training changed significantly throughout the MC (P < .001), with a higher prevalence of a positive perception immediately after the bleeding phase. The perceived quality of low-intensity training did not change significantly throughout the MC (P = .244). Conclusions: Knowledge and communication about the MC were found to be poor in Indian endurance athletes, who reported that the MC significantly influenced their sleep quality, readiness to train, training quality, fitness, and performance.
The direct drivers of recent global anthropogenic biodiversity loss
Authors: Jaureguiberry Pedro , Titeux Nicolas , Wiemers Martin , Bowler Diana E. , Coscieme Luca , Golden Abigail S. , Guerra Carlos A. , Jacob Ute , Takahashi Yasuo , Settele Josef , Díaz Sandra , Molnár Zsolt , Purvis Andy
Published: November 2022

Effective policies to halt biodiversity loss require knowing which anthropogenic drivers are the most important direct causes. Whereas previous knowledge has been limited in scope and rigor, here we statistically synthesize empirical comparisons of recent driver impacts found through a wide-ranging review. We show that land/sea use change has been the dominant direct driver of recent biodiversity loss worldwide. Direct exploitation of natural resources ranks second and pollution third; climate change and invasive alien species have been significantly less important than the top two drivers. The oceans, where direct exploitation and climate change dominate, have a different driver hierarchy from land and fresh water. It also varies among types of biodiversity indicators. For example, climate change is a more important driver of community composition change than of changes in species populations. Stopping global biodiversity loss requires policies and actions to tackle all the major drivers and their interactions, not some of them in isolation.
In situ imaging of the three-dimensional shape of soft responsive particles at fluid interfaces by atomic force microscopy
Authors: Vialetto Jacopo , Ramakrishna Shivaprakash N. , Isa Lucio
Published: November 2022

The reconfiguration of individual soft and deformable particles upon adsorption at a fluid interface underpins many aspects of their dynamics and interactions, ultimately regulating the properties of monolayers of relevance for applications. In this work, we demonstrate that atomic force microscopy can be used for the in situ reconstruction of the three-dimensional conformation of model poly(
N
-isopropylacrylamide) microgels adsorbed at an oil-water interface. We image the particle topography from both sides of the interface to characterize its in-plane deformation and to visualize the occurrence of asymmetric swelling in the two fluids. In addition, the technique enables investigating different fluid phases and particle architectures, as well as studying the effect of temperature variations on particle conformation in situ. We envisage that these results open up an exciting range of possibilities to provide microscopic insights into the single-particle behavior of soft objects at fluid interfaces and into the resulting macroscopic material properties.
Nitroreductase-instructed supramolecular assemblies for microbiome regulation to enhance colorectal cancer treatments
Authors: Chen Jiali , Zhang Pai , Zhao Yan , Zhao Jie , Wu Xiaobo , Zhang Ruijia , Cha Ruitao , Yao Qingxin , Gao Yuan
Published: November 2022

The development of human microbiome has collectively correlated the sophisticated interactions between
Fusobacterium nucleatum
and colorectal cancers (CRCs). However, the treatment of CRC via disruption of gastrointestinal flora remains less explored. Aiming at the up-regulated activity of nitroreductase in
F. nucleatum
–infected tumors, here, we developed the nitroreductase-instructed supramolecular self-assembly. The designed assembly precursors underwent enzymatic transformation to form assemblies, which agglutinated
F. nucleatum
and eradicated the targeted bacteria. These assemblies with anti–
F. nucleatum
activity could further alleviate the bacteria-induced drug resistance effect, thus sensitizing CRC cells against chemo-drugs. Eventually, in mice bearing
F. nucleatum
–infected CRC, the local introduction of nitroreductase-instructed assemblies could efficiently inhibit the tumor growth. Overall, this study incorporated nitroreductase to broaden the toolbox of enzyme-instructed supramolecular self-assembly. The local introduction of nitroreductase-instructed assemblies could target
F. nucleatum
to eliminate its contribution to CRC drug resistance and ameliorate chemotherapy outcomes.
Self-driven magnetorobots for recyclable and scalable micro/nanoplastic removal from nonmarine waters
Authors: Li Wanyuan , Wu Changjin , Xiong Ze , Liang Chaowei , Li Ziyi , Liu Baiyao , Cao Qinyi , Wang Jizhuang , Tang Jinyao , Li Dan
Published: November 2022

Micro/nanoplastic (MNP) contamination in nonmarine waters has evolved into a notable ecotoxicological threat to the global ecosystem. However, existing strategies for MNP removal are typically limited to chemical flocculation or physical filtering that often fails to decontaminate plastic particulates with ultrasmall sizes or ultralow concentrations. Here, we report a self-driven magnetorobot comprising magnetizable ion-exchange resin sphere that can be used to dynamically remove or separate MNPs from nonmarine waters. As a result of the long-range electrophoretic attraction established by recyclable ion-exchange resin, the magnetorobot shows sustainable removal efficiency of >90% over 100 treatment cycles, with verified broad applicability to varying plastic compositions, sizes, and shapes as well as nonmarine water samples. Our work may facilitate industry-scale MNP removal with affordable cost and minimal secondary pollution and suggests an appealing strategy based on self-propelled micro/nanorobots to sample and assess nanoplastics in aqueous environment.
Pooled screening of CAR T cells identifies diverse immune signaling domains for next-generation immunotherapies
Authors: Goodman Daniel B. , Azimi Camillia S. , Kearns Kendall , Talbot Alexis , Garakani Kiavash , Garcia Julie , Patel Nisarg , Hwang Byungjin , Lee David , Park Emily , Vykunta Vivasvan S. , Shy Brian R. , Ye Chun Jimmie , Eyquem Justin , Marson Alexander , Bluestone Jeffrey A. , Roybal Kole T.
Published: November 2022

Chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) repurpose natural signaling components to retarget T cells to refractory cancers but have shown limited efficacy in persistent, recurrent malignancies. Here, we introduce “CAR Pooling,” a multiplexed approach to rapidly identify CAR designs with clinical potential. Forty CARs with signaling domains derived from a range of immune cell lineages were evaluated in pooled assays for their ability to stimulate critical T cell effector functions during repetitive stimulation that mimics long-term tumor antigen exposure. Several domains were identified from the tumor necrosis factor (TNF) receptor family that have been primarily associated with B cells. CD40 enhanced proliferation, whereas B cell–activating factor receptor (BAFF-R) and transmembrane activator and CAML interactor (TACI) promoted cytotoxicity. These functions were enhanced relative to clinical benchmarks after prolonged antigen stimulation, and CAR T cell signaling through these domains fell into distinct states of memory, cytotoxicity, and metabolism. BAFF-R CAR T cells were enriched for a highly cytotoxic transcriptional signature previously associated with positive clinical outcomes. We also observed that replacing the 4-1BB intracellular signaling domain with the BAFF-R signaling domain in a clinically validated B cell maturation antigen (BCMA)–specific CAR resulted in enhanced activity in a xenotransplant model of multiple myeloma. Together, these results show that CAR Pooling is a general approach for rapid exploration of CAR architecture and activity to improve the efficacy of CAR T cell therapies.
Combination cancer immunotherapies: Emerging treatment strategies adapted to the tumor microenvironment
Authors: Kirchhammer Nicole , Trefny Marcel P. , Auf der Maur Priska , Läubli Heinz , Zippelius Alfred
Published: November 2022

Immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) has revolutionized cancer treatment. However, resistance to ICB occurs frequently due to tumor-intrinsic alterations or extrinsic factors in the tumor microenvironment. This Viewpoint aims to give an update on recent developments in immunotherapy for solid tumors and highlights progress in translational research and clinical practice.
What’s next for cancer vaccines
Authors: Adamik Juraj , Butterfield Lisa H.
Published: November 2022

Cancer vaccines have been shown clinically to drive tumor-reactive cell activation, proliferation, and effector function. Unfortunately, tumor eradication by treatment with cancer vaccines has been unsuccessful in many patients. Critical steps are under way to improve vaccine efficacy and combine them with immunotherapy and standard-of-care treatments.
Advancing beyond the twists and turns of T cell exhaustion in cancer
Authors: van der Heide Verena , Humblin Etienne , Vaidya Abishek , Kamphorst Alice Oliffson
Published: November 2022

Chronic antigen stimulation leads to T cell exhaustion. Nutrient restrictions and other suppressive factors in the tumor microenvironment further exacerbate T cell dysfunction. Better understanding of heterogeneity and dynamics of exhausted CD8 T cells will guide novel therapies that modulate T cell differentiation to achieve more effective antitumor responses.
Antimicrobial Activity of Auranofin, Cannabidivarin, and Tolfenamic Acid against Multidrug-Resistant Neisseria gonorrhoeae
Authors: Yang Fan , Liu Jin , Gu Yuhua , Jiao Ruilin , Yan Jing , Gao Shuai , Lin Xu’ai , van der Veen Stijn
Published: November 2022

Neisseria gonorrhoeae
is a major public health concern because of the high incidence of gonorrhea and the increasingly limited options for antimicrobial therapy. Strains associated with the FC428 clone are a particular concern because they have shown global dissemination and they display high-level resistance against the currently recommended ceftriaxone therapy.
Peripartum cardiomyopathy: a rare cause of acute heart failure
Authors: Vogel Tabea Cornelia Elisabeth , Schneiter Stephan , Fehr Thomas
Published: November 2022

A woman in her early 30s presented herself with acute dyspnoea and elevated D-dimers 5 weeks after delivery of her second child. Echocardiographic findings showed signs of acute left ventricular failure, and an MRI confirmed a non-ischaemic dilated left heart failure compatible with peripartum cardiomyopathy. The antihormonal therapy with bromocriptine during 6 weeks and an intensive heart failure therapy led to an amelioration of the heart function within 3 years, but full recovery was not yet observed.
Pregnancy induces pancreatic insulin secretion in women with long-standing type 1 diabetes
Authors: Espes Daniel , Magnusson Louise , Caballero-Corbalan José , Schwarcz Erik , Casas Rosaura , Carlsson Per-Ola
Published: November 2022

Introduction

Pregnancy entails both pancreatic adaptations with increasing β-cell mass and immunological alterations in healthy women. In this study, we have examined the effects of pregnancy on β-cell function and immunological processes in long-standing type 1 diabetes (L-T1D).

Research design and methods

Fasting and stimulated C-peptide were measured after an oral glucose tolerance test in pregnant women with L-T1D (n=17) during the first trimester, third trimester, and 5–8 weeks post partum. Two 92-plex Olink panels were used to measure proteins in plasma. Non-pregnant women with L-T1D (n=30) were included for comparison.

Results

Fasting C-peptide was detected to a higher degree in women with L-T1D during gestation and after parturition (first trimester: 64.7%, third trimester: 76.5%, and post partum: 64.7% vs 26.7% in non-pregnant women). Also, total insulin secretion and peak C-peptide increased during pregnancy. The plasma protein levels in pregnant women with L-T1D was dynamic, but few analytes were functionally related. Specifically, peripheral levels of prolactin (PRL), prokineticin (PROK)-1, and glucagon (GCG) were elevated during gestation whereas levels of proteins related to leukocyte migration (CCL11), T cell activation (CD28), and antigen presentation (such as CD83) were reduced.

Conclusions

In summary, we have found that some C-peptide secretion, that is, an indirect measurement of endogenous insulin production, is regained in women with L-T1D during pregnancy, which might be attributed to elevated peripheral levels of PRL, PROK-1, or GCG.