bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Deepening students' experiences with problem identification and definition in an empathetic approach: lessons from a university design-thinking program
Authors: Kim Hye Jeong , Yi Pilnam , Ko Byung Wook
Published: August 2022

Purpose

This study explored students' experiences of creative problem-solving using a design thinking approach in higher education, mainly focusing on the importance of empathetic approach in the problem identification and definition phase.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors used a descriptive qualitative research design and thematic analysis, in which observation and 27 semi-structured reports were used to reveal the impact of design thinking on undergraduate students' experience of creative problem-solving.

Findings

The authors found multiple themes in students' responses concerning problem identification and definition in design thinking, which could be described as a systematic innovation process. Four major themes were identified. They included identifying and defining problems in a real-world context, empathizing with people from the target beneficiary group as a process of problem identification and definition, working with a team to expand the empathizing view, and perceiving the need for deep exploration in the empathetic process and defining a problem.

Research limitations/implications

This study examined the perceived role of empathy in students' creative problem-solving process. However, the main limitation of this study was the small sample size, which can limit the generalizability of the results of the study. Nonetheless, this study provides valuable insights into understanding the role of empathy and problem identification as an essential process in creative problem-solving.

Practical implications

It is worthwhile to integrate design thinking as an effective teaching and learning strategy in university education, particularly for fostering empathy and creative problem-solving skills in students. Among the processes of design thinking, empathy is critical in the problem identification and definition phase.

Originality/value

This study adds to existing knowledge by examining the role and ways of perceiving real-world problems in a human-centered mindset in university programs.
Mapping the nomological network of change fatigue: identifying predictors, mediators and consequences
Authors: Cox Cody B. , Gallegos Emily , Pool Gregory J. , Gilley K. Matthew , Haight Natasha
Published: August 2022

Purpose

Change fatigue refers to the state when excessive change has led workers to feel exhausted and unable to further adapt. While the concept of change fatigue has been discussed, research exploring predictors, mediators and consequences of change fatigue is limited. The purpose of this study was to empirically demonstrate that organizational change frequency predicts change fatigue, and that change fatigue predicts important outcomes (e.g. reduced performance) via mediators such as reduced commitment and satisfaction.

Design/methodology/approach

In two cross-sectional studies, the authors explored predictors, mediators and outcomes of change fatigue.

Findings

In study one, participants from organizations experiencing more change reported greater change fatigue, and change fatigue predicted increased strain, burnout, intention to turnover and decreased engagement. In study two, change fatigue had significant indirect effects on teamwork, turnover intention and performance via reduced job satisfaction and organizational commitment.

Research limitations/implications

Both studies were cross-sectional; future studies should explore the predictors and consequences of change fatigue longitudinally.

Practical implications

Change managers need to be aware that frequent organizational changes predict change fatigue, which reduces both job satisfaction and organizational commitment and leads to worse performance.

Originality/value

This is the first study demonstrating that change frequency predicts change fatigue, and that fatigue impacts performance outcomes via reduced satisfaction and commitment.
Rehabilitation of abandoned housing projects in peninsular Malaysia: reaching out to rescue mechanisms in the companies act 2016
Authors: Chen Thim Wai , Azmi Ruzita , Abdul Rahman Rohana
Published: August 2022

Purpose

In response to the housing needs of its people, Malaysia has allowed private housing developer companies to build houses on a sell-then-build basis. Despite having legislation designed to protect the interests of purchasers, insolvent housing developers have left behind many uncompleted housing projects with their land charged to financial institutions. Consequently, the affected purchasers will lose their houses when those financial institutions foreclose on the land in the housing projects. In addition, those purchasers remain legally obligated to repay loans taken to finance their house purchase. The housing development laws lack provisions to rehabilitate abandoned housing projects. The purpose of this paper is to explore the viability of rescue mechanisms in the Companies Act 2016, being corporate voluntary arrangement (CVA), judicial management (JM) and schemes of arrangement (SOA), to aid in the rehabilitation of abandoned housing projects in Peninsular Malaysia.

Design/methodology/approach

Doctrinal research is adopted in this paper.

Findings

This research highlights the flexibility of the SOA as a tool to rehabilitate abandoned housing projects. This research also reveals the potential of CVA and in particular, JM with its “public interest” feature, as useful rehabilitation mechanisms once the proposed reforms are adopted.

Originality/value

The authors are hopeful that the suggested reforms will enhance the value of all three rescue mechanisms as rehabilitation tools for abandoned housing projects so as to alleviate the plight of house purchasers.
Do career adaptability and employee–employer fit relate to career resilience? A collaborative effort to depart from the state of “silos” to “mutuality” in academia
Authors: Ahmad Bilal , Nasir Sobia , Hai Mahnoor , Bilal Saba
Published: August 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between career adaptability and career resilience. Alongside, the mediating role of career-management fit was also tested on the relationship between career adaptability and career resilience.

Design/methodology/approach

Cross-sectional data were collected from the employees of higher-education institutes via an online survey questionnaire. The partial least square structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) technique using the SmartPLS application was employed for the data analyses.

Findings

Results showed that career-management fit positively mediates the relationship between career adaptability and career resilience. Further, a direct positive relationship between career adaptability and career resilience was also substantiated.

Research limitations/implications

Theoretical implications, managerial implications, study limitations and future research directions are also discussed.

Originality/value

The authors put forward the field by probing the developmental strategy for career resilience. This is because, in academics, career-resilient individuals can better contribute towards academic growth and can also maintain a good life balance (Mishra and McDonald, 2017). Hence, this study, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, is the first to investigate the career-management fit as a pathway bridging career adaptability and career resilience.
Impact factors to reduce carbon emissions. Evidences from Latin America
Authors: Panait Mirela , Janjua Laeeq Razzak , Apostu Simona Andreea , Mihăescu Constanta
Published: August 2022

Purpose

Carbon dioxide emissions affect the environment, presenting major implications for sustainable development and consequently model climate change policies. The main aim of the paper is to highlight the factors leading to CO2 emissions in Latin America.

Design/methodology/approach

The analysis was performed using data for 1990–2020 and panel regression and STATA software.

Findings

The results highlighted that the variables have significantly influence CO2 emissions in case of the countries in the sample.

Originality/value

The novelty of the paper consists in using all financial inflows of together (foreign direct investment, official development assistance and remittences), Latin America heavily in-flowed with remittances from the USA. Since Latin America is enriched with forest areas, the authors also covered this variable in the estimations. Urbanization and transportation are induced by remittance inflows, thus wellbeing was incorporated in the model. The conclusion of the study demonstrates the need for complex measures involving public-private partnerships, public awareness of the need for energy transition and the involvement of foreign-owned companies that must not only pursue their own interests but also generate positive economic, environmental, and social externalities in host countries.
Women in leadership positions in universities: are they really queen bees?
Authors: da Rocha Grangeiro Rebeca , Bastos Gomes Neto Manoel , Esnard Catherine
Published: August 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to assess the adherence to the traits of the queen bee phenomenon (QBP) for women who hold leadership positions in Brazilian higher education institutions (HEIs) and to compare their responses with those of women without leadership positions and of men on the same dimensions.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 703 academics from 88 HEIs participated in this study. The data were analyzed using a statistical package to calculate descriptive and inferential statistics. For these, 2 × 2 analysis of variance tests were performed to compare leader women vs nonleader women and leader women vs leader men.

Findings

The results indicate that leader women do not fit to all dimensions of the QBP. They report high averages to commitment, agency traits and personal sacrifices to career (Male self-description) and to meritocratic discourse. However, leader women assess their junior counterparts with higher averages to commitment and agency traits than women without leadership positions and leader men assess their junior counterparts. Women in leadership positions report superior identification with same gender colleagues and declare to be more supportive with affirmative policies for women's professional development than nonleader women and leader men.

Practical implications

This study reinforces that same gender conflict in the work environment is not a female characteristic and also promotes reflections on the influence of organizational culture, men hostility toward quotas and gender stereotypes for female progression in the academic context.

Originality/value

This study provides an empirical analysis of the QBP to academic women in Brazilian HEIs and compares its dimensions to nonleader women and leader men. The analysis of a sexist culture enabled original results, as nondistancing of the self-group, even if leader women presented some QB traits.
HyFlex model of higher education: understanding the promise of flexibility
Authors: Howell Emily
Published: August 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this paper aims to answer the research question: How is the HyFlex model being implemented in higher education, and is it leading to greater access and equity?.

Design/methodology/approach

This comprehensive literature review covers 19 sources, 11 studies and 8 practitioner or literature reflections, studying HyFlex.

Findings

Seven focused codes formed from 23 initial codes: definition and alignment, implementation, successes, challenges, research, theory, and access and equity.

Originality/value

The HyFlex model arose to address the need of both leaner budgets in higher education and increased demands from students for varied learning options, and this paper addresses the status of this mode and a gap in the research on hybrid forms of higher education.
Analysis of barriers for implementation of integrated Lean Six Sigma and Industry 4.0 using interpretive ranking process
Authors: Vinodh S. , Shimray Somishang A.
Published: August 2022

Purpose

Lean Six Sigma (LSS) is a continuous improvement procedure that helps in improving the performance, decreasing variations, reducing lead time and increasing profit. Industry 4.0 (I4.0) portrays a new phase in the enterprise and aims at digitalization of the enterprise. The basis of I4.0 is a cyber-physical system, leading to product networking and complete coordination of process, value enhancement and further optimization. Integrating LSS methodology with I4.0 will give an edge in competitiveness to an enterprise. The aim of this study is to identify and analyze barriers to have an obstacle free implementation.

Design/methodology/approach

LSS and I4.0 barriers are identified through literature review. In this paper 18 barriers of LSS and I4.0 that hinder the implementation of integrated LSS and I4.0 are collected. Analysis of barriers was done using interpretive ranking process (IRP).

Findings

From the results, it is observed that lack of top management attitude, commitment and involvement are the most dominant barriers.

Practical implications

The study is done by gathering inputs from industry practitioners and derived inferences have practical relevance.

Originality/value

The study of barriers for integrated LSS and I4.0 is the original contribution of the authors.
Relative refractoriness of breast cancer cells to tumour necrosis factor‐α induced necroptosis
Authors: Thakur Banita , Saha Lekha , Bhatia Alka
Published: August 2022

Necroptosis, a recently identified programmed cell death pathway, has attracted attention as an alternative route to target apoptosis‐resistant cancer cells. The status of the necroptosis pathway in different subtypes of breast cancer has not been well explored. Stimulating the cells by TNF‐α can trigger cell survival or death depending on the combination of downstream players involved. In this work, we attempted to induce necroptosis in them using a combination of TNF‐α and Z‐VAD‐FMK with and without chemotherapy. Cell viability, apoptosis, and necroptosis were assessed using MTT and Annexin‐V/PI assays, respectively. Gene and protein expression was analysed by qPCR and immunophenotyping. Both the cell lines were resistant to induction of cell death by necroptosis. There was no enhancement in cell death when chemotherapeutic drugs were combined with necroptosis induction. Expression studies showed reduced translational expression of key necroptosis molecules like RIP kinases and MLKL in breast cancer cells compared to positive control cell line L929. Also, cell survival molecules were expressed more in MDA‐MB‐231 in contrast to death pathway molecules which were expressed more in T47D cells. In this work, the two breast cancer cell lines were observed to be resistant to TNF‐α induced necroptosis with or without chemotherapy. Expression of key necroptosis players revealed relative insufficiency of the molecular machinery involved in the above pathway. In our opinion this may be the cause for resistance to necroptosis and novel strategies to upregulate these molecules need to be developed to sensitize the breast cancer cells towards cell death by necroptosis.
Clinicopathological characteristics of signet‐ring cell carcinoma derived from gastric fovelar epithelium
Authors: Zhang Zhi Shang , Deng Wei Yi , Huang Si Lin , Yang Bin Feng , Zhu Fang Heng , Jiang Bo , Wang Su Nan , Wang Yang Kun
Published: August 2022

Objective

We aimed to investigate the immunophenotype, differential diagnosis, and clinicopathological characteristics of signet‐ring cell carcinoma (SRCC) derived from gastric foveolar epithelium.

Methods

Clinical characteristics, endoscopic findings, histopathological features, and follow‐up data of seven cases of SRCC derived from gastric foveolar epithelium with small intramucosal lesions were analyzed.

Results

Seven patients with a mean age of 38.3 years were diagnosed with SRCC derived from gastric foveolar epithelium and small intramucosal lesions, all of them were negative for CDH‐1 germline mutation. The glands proliferated and expanded, and then morphologically transformed into signet‐ring cells and formed clonal hyperplastic SRCC, which expanded laterally along the gastric foveolar cells to a length of 3–6 mm. Periodic acid Schiff staining was positive, while CK7 and MUC6 were negative, in all cases. Ki‐67‐positive cells ranged 37%–60%. During a follow‐up period of 6–30 months, no patients experienced tumor recurrence or metastasis.

Conclusions

SRCC derived from gastric foveolar epithelium is originated from the proliferative region of the bottom of the gastric pit and gland neck. It is easily missed diagnosed or misdiagnosed as it grows laterally along the gastric foveolar cells. Biological behavior, genetics, and etiology of such SRCC, as well as the clinicopathological characteristics, need to be further studied.
Exploration of “Zhang” in functional gastrointestinal disorders: A cross‐cultural challenge in Chinese clinical setting
Authors: Zeng Hao Yu , Bai Tao , Li Sai Er , Zhang Lei , Song Jun , Liu Jin Song , Hou Xiao Hua
Published: August 2022

Objectives

In China, four symptoms of functional gastrointestinal disorders, postprandial fullness, early satiety, bloating, and abdominal distension are commonly and interchangeably expressed as a single chief complaint, “Zhang”. In this study we aimed to explore the most efficient method of determining the characteristics of symptoms in such patients.

Methods

Consecutive patients with the chief complaint of abdominal “Zhang” from December 2017 to June 2018 were included. Their symptom patterns were determined by face‐to‐face interviews. Patients with a single symptom (postprandial fullness, early satiety, bloating, or abdominal distension) completed the questionnaire assessing their understanding of the symptoms using three methods including concept terms, pictograms, and verbal descriptions.

Results

A total of 230 patients (121 men, 109 women; mean age 43.7 ± 12.6 y) were included. Verbal descriptions were most applicable to identify patients’ symptom patterns, followed by concept terms and pictograms. Early satiety was the most difficult to identify (20.9% agreement between patient's understanding and doctor's diagnosis by using concept term), whereas fullness and bloating had apparently higher recognition (70.7% and 72.1% by concept terms). Elder patients (>60 y) and those with more frequent symptom attacks (≥once daily) showed relatively poorer understanding of the symptoms.

Conclusions

Early satiety is poorly identified by patients. Existing pictograms fail to show comprehension‐improving features in a Chinese cultural setting. Verbal descriptions may be the best option for diagnosing abdominal “Zhang”. More caution is required during the inquiry of medical history from elder patients with frequent symptom attacks.
Specific histamine regulating activity of surface‐modified yeast vacuoles by histamine‐ binding protein and its immune‐enhancing effect
Authors: Jang Hyeweon , Kim Yang‐Hoon , Min Jiho
Published: August 2022

We aimed to develop a biocompatible material that could enhance weakened immunity and control histamine in vivo. Histamine‐binding protein (HBP) vacuoles have a mechanism of action that directly binds to the histamine molecule. It is designed to eliminate the side effects of antihistamine caused by binding to other receptors. HBP vacuoles were designed to produce a material that was biocompatible, and could enhance immunity. First, a recombinant vector was designed so that HBP was located on the vacuole surface, and expressed towards the cytoplasm. The vector was transformed into yeast, and protein expression was induced. Then, the vacuole was isolated by centrifugation to complete HBP vacuoles. Cytotoxicity test was conducted for application to RAW 264.7 cells. In addition, immune enhancement reaction and histamine inhibition were confirmed through phagocytosis assay and histamine ELISA. RAW 264.7 cells were pre‐treated with HBP vacuoles to confirm the immune enhancement of HBP vacuoles. As a result, it was confirmed that the immunostimulatory effect of the vacuole was increased in a concentration‐dependent manner. In addition, the reduction of histamine was confirmed by treating the HBP vacuoles. As a result, HBP vacuoles reduced the histamine secreted from RAW 264.7 cells by about 75%.
Systemic lupus erythematosus following human papillomavirus vaccination: A case‐based review
Authors: He Nan , Leng Xiaomei , Zeng Xiaofeng
Published: August 2022

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a heterogeneous systemic autoimmune diseases (AIDs) with many pathogenic factors, ranging from genetic to epigenetic to environmental. The human papillomavirus (HPV), a viral infectious agent, is a common contributor to the onset and exacerbation of SLE. HPV infections are more prevalent among SLE patients than healthy individuals, bringing about a substantial need for treatment. While HPV recombinant gene vaccines are accepted as a universal method for infection prevention, they pose a risk for adverse events such as fever, joint pain, and rashes. In rare cases, they might even trigger AIDs such as SLE, especially in patients with a personal or family history of such diseases. In this article, we provide a report of a case of SLE onset following HPV vaccination and a review of 11 similar cases. An analysis of 12 patients revealed that 7 cases of SLE developed between 3 weeks and 2 months post‐vaccination. Symptoms of SLE generally manifest as fatigue, fever, joint pain, and myalgia. Two patients had lupus nephritis, 2 showed central nervous system involvement, including abnormal behavior and epileptic seizures, and 1 had intestinal pseudo‐obstruction. All patients showed rapid remission with glucocorticoid and immunosuppressive therapy and remained stable during several months of follow‐up.
Immune checkpoint inhibitors and tyrosine kinase inhibitors in patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma: Does the sequence matter?
Authors: Ng Kennedy Yao Yi , Wong Lawrence Wen Jun , Ang Andrea Jing Shi , Lee Ailica Wan Xin , Tay Desiree Shu Hui , Tan Jack Jie En , Tan Sze Huey , Choo Su Pin , Tai David Wai‐Meng , Lee Joycelyn Jie Xin
Published: August 2022

Introduction

Combination therapy with immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) and antivascular endothelial growth factor (anti‐VEGF) is currently the first line treatment for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (aHCC). However, there are many patients who may not be able to receive combination therapy due to underlying comorbidities or resource limitations. For these patients, systemic treatment options include single agent tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) or ICI monotherapy. However, whether an optimal sequence of systemic therapy exists remains unknown. We aim to explore the impact of sequencing of TKI and ICI therapy in terms of response rates and to examine the safety of their use in sequential order.

Methods

Patients with aHCC treated with both ICI and TKI between December 30, 2013 and June 13, 2018 were retrospectively identified. Patients were classified into two groups: those who received TKI in the first‐line (TKI1), followed by ICI (ICI2) and those who received ICI (ICI1) in the first‐line followed by TKI (TKI2). The primary objective of the study was to identify differences in objective response rate (ORR) and disease control rate (DCR), as evaluated based on response evaluation criteria in solid tumor v1.1 for TKI1, TKI2, ICI1, and ICI2. Secondary objectives included comparison of progression free survival (PFS) for each line of therapy, overall survival (OS) and adverse events (AEs).

Results

Twenty‐seven and 23 patients were classified into group 1 and 2, respectively. Objective response rates of TKI1 and TKI2 were 3.8% and 17.6%, respectively (p = .28); DCR to TKI1 versus TKI2 was 23.1% versus 35.3% (p = .49). ORRs of ICI1 and ICI2 were 8.7% and 14.3%, respectively (p = .66); DCR to ICI2 versus ICI1 was 56.5% versus 42.9% (p = .37). Median PFS was not significant between TKI1 and TKI2 (PFS 3.06 versus 1.61 months, p = .097) as well as between ICI2 and ICI1 (PFS 1.84 versus 2.37 month, p = .32). Median OS was also not significantly different between both groups (OS 20.63 versus 13.93 months, p = .20) on univariable and multivariable analysis (OS adjusted hazard ratio [HR] 2.07, 95% CI .83–5.18, p = .118). The proportion of patients who experienced adverse events of any grade was similar in both groups (TKI1 59.3% versus TKI2 52.2%; ICI1 78.3% versus ICI2 70.4%).

Conclusion

Our study suggests that the sequence of TKI versus ICI therapy in patients with aHCC may not matter, given similar efficacy and toxicity profile when either agent is received in the first or second‐line setting. This finding is of value in the real‐world setting, where patients may be frail or have comorbidities that render them unable to tolerate combination therapy (ICI and TKI/anti‐VEGF). For these patients, sequential exposure to both classes of drugs (ICI and TKI) may be a suitable option.
Can magnetic resonance imaging enhance the assessment of potential new treatments for cognitive impairment in mood disorders? A systematic review and position paper by the International Society for Bipolar Disorders Targeting Cognition Task Force
Authors: Miskowiak Kamilla W. , Yalin Nefize , Seeberg Ida , Burdick Katherine E. , Balanzá‐Martínez Vicent , Bonnin Caterina del Mar , Bowie Christopher R. , Carvalho Andre F. , Dols Annemieke , Douglas Katie , Gallagher Peter , Hasler Gregor , Kessing Lars V. , Lafer Beny , Lewandowski Kathryn E. , López‐Jaramillo Carlos , Martinez‐Aran Anabel , McIntyre Roger S. , Porter Richard J. , Purdon Scot E. , Schaffer Ayal , Sumiyoshi Tomiki , Torres Ivan J. , Van Rheenen Tamsyn E. , Yatham Lakshmi N. , Young Allan H. , Vieta Eduard , Stokes Paul R. A.
Published: August 2022

Background

Developing treatments for cognitive impairment is key to improving the functioning of people with mood disorders. Neuroimaging may assist in identifying brain‐based efficacy markers. This systematic review and position paper by the International Society for Bipolar Disorders Targeting Cognition Task Force examines the evidence from neuroimaging studies of pro‐cognitive interventions.

Methods

We included magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) studies of candidate interventions in people with mood disorders or healthy individuals, following the procedures of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta‐Analysis 2020 statement. Searches were conducted on PubMed/MEDLINE, PsycInfo, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and Clinicaltrials.gov from inception to 30th April 2021. Two independent authors reviewed the studies using the National Heart, Lung, Blood Institutes of Health Quality Assessment Tool for Controlled Intervention Studies and the quality of neuroimaging methodology assessment checklist.

Results

We identified 26 studies (N = 702). Six investigated cognitive remediation or pharmacological treatments in mood disorders (N = 190). In healthy individuals, 14 studies investigated pharmacological interventions (N = 319), 2 cognitive training (N = 73) and 4 neuromodulatory treatments (N = 120). Methodologies were mostly rated as ‘fair’. 77% of studies investigated effects with task‐based fMRI. Findings varied but most consistently involved treatment‐associated cognitive control network (CCN) activity increases with cognitive improvements, or CCN activity decreases with no cognitive change, and increased functional connectivity. In mood disorders, treatment‐related default mode network suppression occurred.

Conclusions

Modulation of CCN and DMN activity is a putative efficacy biomarker. Methodological recommendations are to pre‐declare intended analyses and use task‐based fMRI, paradigms probing the CCN, longitudinal assessments, mock scanning, and out‐of‐scanner tests.
Tractable Bayes of Skew-Elliptical Link Models for Correlated Binary Data
Authors: Zhang Zhongwei , Arellano-Valle Reinaldo B. , Genton Marc G. , Huser Raphaël
Published: August 2022

Correlated binary response data with covariates are ubiquitous in longitudinal or spatial studies. Among the existing statistical models, the most well-known one for this type of data is the multivariate probit model, which uses a Gaussian link to model dependence at the latent level. However, a symmetric link may not be appropriate if the data are highly imbalanced. Here, we propose a multivariate skew-elliptical link model for correlated binary responses, which includes the multivariate probit model as a special case. Furthermore, we perform Bayesian inference for this new model and prove that the regression coefficients have a closed-form unified skew-elliptical posterior with an elliptical prior. The new methodology is illustrated by an application to COVID-19 data from three different counties of the state of California, USA. By jointly modeling extreme spikes in weekly new cases, our results show that the spatial dependence cannot be neglected. Furthermore, the results also show that the skewed latent structure of our proposed model improves the flexibility of the multivariate probit model and provides a better fit to our highly imbalanced dataset.
Impacts of abiotic and biotic factors on terrestrial leeches in Indonesian Borneo
Authors: Nelaballi Swapna , Finkel Benjamin J. , Bernard Andrew B. , Estrada Gene R. , Setiawan Endro , Setia Tatang Mitra , Susanto Tri Wahyu , Rhanda Raden , Surya  , Jakaria  , Andika Dika , Lemoine Sylvain , Jaffe Sarah M. , Barrow Elizabeth J. , Justinek Živa , Wittmer Heiko U. , Marshall Andrew J.
Published: August 2022

Haemadipsid leeches are ubiquitous inhabitants of tropical and sub‐tropical forests in the Indo‐Pacific region. They are increasingly used as indicator taxa for biomonitoring, yet very little is known about their basic ecology. For example, to date no study has assessed the occurrence and distribution of haemadipsid leeches across naturally occurring gradients within intact habitats. We analyzed a long‐term data set (2012–2020) on the closely related tiger (Haemadipsa picta) and brown (Haemadipsa spp.) leech species to investigate if and how abiotic and biotic factors influence their occurrence across a gradient of forest types at an undisturbed tropical rainforest site in Indonesian Borneo. We compared a series of negative binomial mixed models and found that, of the abiotic factors, soil moisture had the largest positive effect on encounter rates of both leech species. Among biotic factors, forest type had differential effects on counts of the two species: while tiger leech counts were greater in low elevation forest types, brown leech counts were greater in high elevation forest types. Additionally, we found that the presence of one species had a positive effect on the presence of the other species. Finally, our results show that the tiger leech has a narrower distribution, being restricted to lower elevation forest types with higher water retention, suggesting that the tiger leech could be more sensitive to lower soil moisture levels.

Abstract in Indonesian is available with online material.
Rapid generation of genetically engineered T cells for the treatment of virus‐related cancers
Authors: Jiang Jinxing , Xia Ming , Zhang Lijie , Chen Xi , Zhao Yue , Zeng Chenquan , Yang Haiyan , Liang Peng , Li Guanghe , Li Ning , Qi Hui , Wei Teng , Ren Lili
Published: August 2022

Adoptive transfer of T cell receptor (TCR)‐engineered T cells targeting viral epitopes represents a promising approach for treating virus‐related cancers. However, the efficient identification of epitopes for T cells and the corresponding TCR remains challenging. Here, we report a workflow permitting the rapid generation of human papillomavirus (HPV)‐specific TCR‐T cells. Six epitopes of viral proteins belonged to HPV16 or HPV18 were predicted to have high affinity to A11:01 according to bioinformatic analysis. Subsequently, CTL induction were performed with these six antigen peptides separately, and antigen‐specific T cells were sorted by FACS. TCR clonotypes of these virus‐specific T cells were determined using next‐generation sequencing. To improve the efficiency of TCRαβ pair validation, a lentiviral vector library containing 116 TCR constructs was generated that consisted of predominant TCRs according to TCR repertoire analysis. Later, TCR library transduced T cells were simulated with peptide pool‐pulsed antigen‐presenting cells, then CD137‐positive cells were sorted and subjected to TCR repertoire analysis. The top‐hit TCRs and corresponding antigen peptides were deduced and validated. Through this workflow, a TCR targeting the E692–101 of HPV16 was identified. These HPV16‐specific TCR‐T cells showed high activity towards HPV16‐positive human cervical cancer cells in vitro and efficiently repressed tumor growth in a murine model. This study provides a HPV16‐specific TCR fitted to the HLA‐A11:01 population, and exemplifies an efficient approach that can be applied in large‐scale screening of virus‐specific TCRs, further encouraging researchers to exploit the therapeutic potential of the TCR‐T cell technique in treating virus‐related cancers.
A Glance into Public Memory: Which Public? Whose Memory? The Demise of Red Location Cultural Precinct
Authors: Kadi Palesa
Published: August 2022

In 2021, the international award‐winning South African Red Location Museum (RLM), situated within the Red Location Cultural Precinct and termed a ‘national site of struggle’ by Noero Wolff Architects, remains derelict. This paper is about the continuing narrative of state‐built infrastructure being held hostage to community protests. It focuses on the museum and its depiction of the public/s that made Red Location. The intensity of community protest has had a significant impact on the Red Location Cultural Precinct with the museum's closure in 2013. As I shall argue in the paper, more attention should be paid to the questions of museum public/s and whose memory heritage projects intend to document. Furthermore, the place of cultural institutions such as township museums requires a review of the idea itself. Given this context, I discuss two intertwined narratives, one, the concept of the promise of infrastructure, and the second, the impact of politics on heritage.
MOHOA Considering the Curious Case of the Satyagraha House, Johannesburg. A Curatorial Critique
Authors: McKay Harriet
Published: August 2022

What can the case of Satyagraha House, the luxury guesthouse and museum complex established on the site of a domestic building briefly inhabited by Mohandas Gandhi from 1908 to 1909, suggest about the complexities attached to heritage and preservation in the contemporary South African context? What can this hybrid museum and guesthouse space offer to advance dialogue around the heritage of modern Africa, which will allow alternatives to the ‘traditional’ museum to emerge? Equally, when innovative modes of presenting heritage arise as a result of initiatives from outside the country, the need to pay due diligence to local memory and understanding is considered here as being of paramount importance. Failure to do this, as, I argue, has inadvertently taken place at Satyagraha House, will place modern museum practice in South Africa as belonging to the past rather than to the present and future of modern African heritage.
The Modern Architecture of Arieh Sharon's Obafemi Awolowo University Campus, Ile‐Ife, Nigeria
Authors: Jaiyeoba Emmanuel Babatunde , Efrat Zvi
Published: August 2022

The Obafemi Awolowo University (formerly the University of Ife) campus in Nigeria is one of the identifiable modern heritage sites of Africa. It is significant to the history of tertiary education and the political history of Nigeria and especially to the global history of modern architecture as an exemplar of buildings shorn of ornamental colonial ostentation, emphasizing lightness and green vegetation and aspirational for the newly independent African states. Its manifestation is often labeled “tropical architecture”, interpreted as the adaptation of modern architecture to the tropical climate. This paper presents an argument for the importance of this work to Modern Heritage of Africa.
Housing trajectories and the risk of homelessness among new mental health service users: Protocol for the AMONT study
Authors: Roy Laurence , Abdel‐Baki Amal , Bérubé Félix‐Antoine , Crocker Anne , de Benedictis Luigi , Dostie Mathieu , Latimer Eric , Roy Marc‐André
Published: August 2022

Aims

High rates of mental illness among individuals experiencing homelessness, as well as documented contacts with psychiatric services prior to episodes of homelessness, indicate that early intervention could play a key role in homelessness prevention. Decision‐makers and clinical teams need longitudinal data on housing trajectories following initial contact with psychiatric services, as well as on predictors of risk of housing instability and homelessness. This paper describes the AMONT study, a mixed‐methods naturalistic longitudinal cohort study of individuals identified as new psychiatric service users in seven clinical sites across the province of Québec (Canada).

Methods

The goal of AMONT is to examine the housing situations of individuals over 36 months after their initial contact with psychiatric services, and to identify environmental and individual correlates and predictors of housing outcomes. Participants complete a broad battery of instruments at baseline and follow‐up assessments after 24 and 36 months. We explore housing stability following an initial episode of psychiatric service use from the perspective of service users, family members, and service providers, through qualitative interviews.

Results and Conclusions

The findings from the AMONT study will yield a better understanding of the residential pathways of individuals with mental illness, from their first contact with psychiatric services and for 3 years subsequently. This will inform service providers, decision‐makers and managers on the specific housing concerns and issues that affect first‐time mental health service users. This in turn can lead to the development and implementation of evidence‐informed practices and policies that aim to prevent instability and homelessness.
Gendering of care and care inequalities in couple therapy
Authors: Smoliak Olga , Rice Carla , LaMarre Andrea , Tseliou Eleftheria , LeCouteur Amanda , Davies Adam
Published: August 2022

Reciprocal partner or spousal caregiving in romantic relationships has been identified as a key determinant of the quality of couple relationships. In this article, we interrogate this premise concerning the presumed reciprocity of caregiving in romantic relationships, focusing on cisgender heterosexual relationships and offering implications for relationships of all genders and sexualities. Looking beyond the conventional focus on individual or dyadic processes, we theorize imbalances in care as gendered. Feminists have repeatedly critiqued gender ideology that devalues caring labor and allocates it to women. Gendered power dynamics can lead to imbalances in care‐seeking and care provision. We discuss how the gendering of care and care inequalities can manifest in couple therapy, illustrating with examples from recorded interactions. Implications for therapy practice are discussed.
An evaluation of the quality of COVID‐19 websites in terms of HON principles and using DISCERN tool
Authors: Safdari Reza , Gholamzadeh Marsa , Saeedi Soheila , Tanhapour Mozhgan , Rezayi Sorayya
Published: August 2022

Background

As many people relied on information from the Internet for official scientific or academically affiliated information during the COVID‐19 pandemic, the quality of information on those websites should be good.

Objective

The main purpose of this study was to evaluate a selection of COVID‐19‐related websites for the quality of health information provided.

Method

Using Google and Yahoo, 36 English language websites were selected, in accordance with the inclusion criteria. The two tools were selected for evaluation were the Health on the Net (HON) Code and the 16‐item DISCERN tool.

Results

Most websites (39%) were related to information for the public, and a small number of them (3%) concerned screening websites in which people could be informed of their possible condition by entering their symptoms. The result of the evaluation by the HON tool showed that most websites were reliable (53%), and 44% of them were very reliable. Based on the assessment results of the Likert‐based 16‐item DISCERN tool, the maximum and minimum values for the average scores of each website were calculated as 2.44 and 4.25, respectively.

Conclusion

Evaluation using two widely accepted tools shows that most websites related to COVID‐19 are reliable and useful for physicians, researchers and the public.
Family structure in relation to body mass index and metabolic score in European children and adolescents
Authors: Stahlmann Katharina , Lissner Lauren , Bogl Leonie H. , Mehlig Kirsten , Kaprio Jaakko , Klosowska Joanna C. , Moreno Luis A. , Veidebaum Toomas , Solea Antonia , Molnár Dénes , Lauria Fabio , Börnhorst Claudia , Wolters Maike , Hebestreit Antje , Hunsberger Monica ,   IDEFICS/I.Family consortia
Published: August 2022

Background

Living in single parent and blended families or as an only child—compared to living in two‐parent biological families or with siblings, respectively—is associated with a higher body mass index (BMI) in cross‐sectional studies. However, longitudinal research addressing the children's BMI in this context is scarce. Further, little is known about the association between family structure and metabolic health.

Objectives

This study aimed at investigating the association between both aspects of family structure with BMI and a metabolic score (MetS).

Methods

Cross‐sectional data from 7804 children participating in the European multi‐center I.Family study (2013/2014) and longitudinal data from 5621 children who also participated previously in the IDEFICS study (2007–2010) were used. Family structure was assessed by a detailed interview. BMI z‐score and the MetS were based on measured anthropometry, blood pressure, high‐density lipoprotein, blood glucose, and triglycerides. Linear regressions were performed to model associations between family structure with BMI and MetS.

Results

Children from single‐parent families had higher BMI z‐scores in the cross‐sectional (β = 0.09, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.001 to 0.18) and longitudinal analyses compared to those from two‐parent families. Cross‐sectionally, the number of siblings was associated with lower BMI z‐scores (β = −0.07, 95% CI: −0.10 to −0.03) and lower MetS (β = −0.14, 95% CI: −0.26 to −0.01). Longitudinally, only children between baseline and follow‐up had higher BMI z‐scores at follow‐up (β = 0.07, 95% CI: 0.01 to 0.14) compared to stable siblings.

Conclusion

Obesity prevention measures should focus on single‐parent households and families with an only child.
Calibration Techniques Encompassing Survey Sampling, Missing Data Analysis and Causal Inference
Authors: Zhang Shixiao , Han Peisong , Wu Changbao
Published: August 2022

We provide a critical review on calibration methods developed in three different areas: survey sampling, missing data analysis and causal inference. We highlight the connections and variations of calibration techniques used in missing data analysis and causal inference to conventional calibration weighting and estimation in survey sampling and provide a common framework through model‐calibration and empirical likelihood to unify different calibration methods proposed in recent literature. The goal is to demonstrate the success and effectiveness of calibration methods in achieving some highly desired properties for missing data analysis and causal inference.
The burden of costs on health services by patients with neuro‐ischaemic ulcers in Singapore
Authors: Nazeha Nuraini , Meng Lingyan , Ho Pei , Ng Yi Zhen , Graves Nicholas
Published: August 2022

The economic burden of neuro‐ischaemic ulcers (NIU) is expected to increase because of rising prevalence of comorbidities in an aging population. We aim to estimate healthcare resources consumed by NIU patients, and to quantify the extent to which factors explain variation in cost‐related outcomes. We analysed retrospective patient‐level cohort data for NIU patients from a tertiary hospital registry in Singapore, from 2013 to 2017, using generalised linear regression models. The outcome variables were the length of stay per admission; inpatient and outpatient bill per admission; and, if they had an Emergency Department visit. Cost outcomes were reported in Singapore dollars (S$). A total of 1682 patients were included, and the mean age was 69.9 years (±13.0). An average patient incurred a length of stay of 38.7 days, 7.9 inpatient dressing sessions, an inpatient bill of S$33 096, 11.3 outpatient dressing sessions, and an outpatient bill of S$8780. Inpatient services per patient cost 73.5% higher than outpatient services. NIU patients with multiple (>3) comorbid conditions, peripheral artery disease, or chronic kidney disease incurred longer hospitalisation and higher inpatient bill. Patients with diabetes mellitus and coronary artery disease had higher odds of incurring an ED visit. Patients with coronary artery disease, hyperlipidaemia, kidney complications, or obesity incurred higher outpatient bills. NIU treatment imposes a significant economic burden, especially with inpatient services.
Virulence and biofilm inhibition of 3-methoxycinnamic acid against Agrobacterium tumefaciens
Authors: Pan Deng , Wang Xing-Yun , Zhou Jin-Wei , Yang Liang , Khan Abbas , Wei Dong-Qing , Li Jun-Jian , Jia Ai-Qun
Published: August 2022

Aims

In the current study the anti-virulence and anti-biofilm activities of the cinnamic acid derivative, 3-methoxycinnamic acid, was investigated against Agrobacterium tumefaciens.

Methods and Results

Based on the disc diffusion test and β-galactosidase activity assay, 3-methoxycinnamic acid was shown to interfere with the quorum sensing (QS) system of A. tumefaciens. Crystal violet staining assay, phenol-sulfuric acid method, Bradford protein assay and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) revealed that the biofilm formation of A. tumefaciens was inhibited after the treatment of 3-methoxycinnamic acid. Employing high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis of culture supernatant revealed that the production of 3-oxo-octanoylhomoserine lactone (3-oxo-C8-HSL) decreased concentration-dependently after treatment with 3-methoxycinnamic acid. Swimming and chemotaxis assays also indicated that 3-methoxycinnamic acid had a good effect on reducing the motility and chemotaxis of A. tumefaciens. In addition, the RT-qPCR, molecular docking and simulations further demonstrated that 3-methoxycinnamic acid could competitively inhibit the binding of 3-oxo-C8-HSL to TraR and down-regulate virulence-related genes.

Conclusions

3-Methoxycinnamic acid is proved to have good anti-virulence and anti-biofilm activities against A. tumefaciens.

Significance and Impact of the Study

This is the first study that investigates the anti-virulence and anti-biofilm activities of 3-methoxycinnamic acid against A. tumefaciens. With its potential QS-related virulence and biofilm inhibitory activities, 3-methoxycinnamic acid is expected to be developed as a potent pesticide or adjuvant for the prevention and treatment of crown gall caused by A. tumefaciens.