bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Eradication of Heterogeneous Tumors by T Cells Targeted with Combination Bispecific Chemically Self-assembled Nanorings
Authors: Petersburg Jacob , Vallera Daniel A. , Wagner Carston R.
Published: December 2022

Cancer stem-like cells (CSCs) are often the root cause of refractive relapse due to their inherent resistance to most therapies and ability to rapidly self-propagate. Recently, the antigen CD133 has been identified as a CSC marker on several cancer types and αCD133 therapies have shown selective targeting against CSCs with minimal off-target toxicity. Theoretically, by selectively eliminating CSCs, the sensitivity to bulk tumor-targeting therapies should be enhanced. Previously, our laboratory has developed bispecific chemically self-assembled nanorings (CSANs) that successfully induced T-cell eradication of EpCAM-positive (EpCAM+) tumors. We reasoned that targeting both CSCs [CD133-positive (CD133+)] and the bulk tumor (EpCAM+) simultaneously using our CSAN platform should produce a synergistic effect. We evaluated αCD133/αCD3 CSANs as both a single agent and in combination with αEpCAM/αCD3 CSANs to treat triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) cells, which express a subpopulation of CD133+ cancer stem cells and EpCAM+ bulk tumor cells. Furthermore, an orthotopic breast cancer model validated the ability of αCD133 and αEpCAM targeting to combine synergistically in the elimination of TNBC MDA-MB-231 cells. Complete tumor eradication only occurred when EpCAM and CD133 were targeted simultaneously and lead to full remission in 80% of the test mice. Importantly, the depletion and enrichment of CD133 TNBCs highlighted the role of CD133+ cancer cells in regulating tumor growth and progression. Collectively, our results demonstrate that dual targeting with bispecific CSANs can be effective against heterogenous tumor cell populations and that elimination of primary and CD133+ CSCs may be necessary for eradication of at least a subset of TNBC.
Inclusion of 4-1BB Costimulation Enhances Selectivity and Functionality of IL13Rα2-Targeted Chimeric Antigen Receptor T Cells
Authors: Starr Renate , Aguilar Brenda , Gumber Diana , Maker Madeleine , Huard Stephanie , Wang Dongrui , Chang Wen-Chung , Brito Alfonso , Chiu Vivian , Ostberg Julie R. , Badie Benham , Forman Stephen J. , Alizadeh Darya , Wang Leo D. , Brown Christine E.
Published: December 2022

Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell immunotherapy is emerging as a powerful strategy for cancer therapy; however, an important safety consideration is the potential for off-tumor recognition of normal tissue. This is particularly important as ligand-based CARs are optimized for clinical translation. Our group has developed and clinically translated an IL13(E12Y) ligand–based CAR targeting the cancer antigen IL13Rα2 for treatment of glioblastoma (GBM). There remains limited understanding of how IL13-ligand CAR design impacts the activity and selectivity for the intended tumor-associated target IL13Rα2 versus the more ubiquitous unintended target IL13Rα1. In this study, we functionally compared IL13(E12Y)-CARs incorporating different intracellular signaling domains, including first-generation CD3ζ-containing CARs (IL13ζ), second-generation 4-1BB (CD137)–containing or CD28-containing CARs (IL13-BBζ or IL13-28ζ), and third-generation CARs containing both 4-1BB and CD28 (IL13-28BBζ). In vitro coculture assays at high tumor burden establish that second-generation IL13-BBζ or IL13-28ζ outperform first-generation IL13ζ and third-generation IL13-28BBζ CAR designs, with IL13-BBζ providing superior CAR proliferation and in vivo antitumor potency in human xenograft mouse models. IL13-28ζ displayed a lower threshold for antigen recognition, resulting in higher off-target IL13Rα1 reactivity both in vitro and in vivo. Syngeneic mouse models of GBM also demonstrate safety and antitumor potency of murine IL13-BBζ CAR T cells delivered systemically after lymphodepletion. These findings support the use of IL13-BBζ CARs for greater selective recognition of IL13Rα2 over IL13Rα1, higher proliferative potential, and superior antitumor responsiveness. This study exemplifies the potential of modulating factors outside the antigen targeting domain of a CAR to improve selective tumor recognition.

Significance:

This study reveals how modulating CAR design outside the antigen targeting domain improves selective tumor recognition. Specifically, this work shows improved specificity, persistence, and efficacy of 4-1BB–based IL13-ligand CARs. Human clinical trials evaluating IL13-41BB-CAR T cells are ongoing, supporting the clinical significance of these findings.
Magnetic Resonance Biomarkers and Neurological Outcome of Infants with Mild Hypoxic-Ischaemic Encephalopathy Who Progress to Moderate Hypoxic-Ischaemic Encephalopathy
Authors: Montaldo Paolo , Puzone Simona , Caredda Elisabetta , Galdo Francesca , Pugliese Umberto , Maietta Anna , Ascione Serena , Diplomatico Mario , Spagnuolo Ferdinando , Roma Vincenzina , De Vivo Massimiliano , Carpentieri Mauro , Moschella Sabino , Giordano Lucio , D’Amico Alessandra , Capristo Carlo , Travan Laura , Chello Giovanni , Miraglia del Giudice Emanuele , Cirillo Mario
Published: December 2022

Background: There is increasing concern that infants with mild hypoxic-ischaemic encephalopathy (HIE) may develop seizures and progress to moderate HIE beyond the therapeutic window for cooling. Objective: The aim of this study was to examine the effect of therapeutic hypothermia on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) biomarkers and neurological outcomes in infants with mild HIE and seizures within 24 h after birth. Methods: This study shows an observational cohort study on 366 (near)-term infants with mild HIE and normal amplitude-integrated electroencephalography background. Results: Forty-one infants showed progression (11.2%); 29/41 (70.7%) were cooled. Infants with progression showed cerebral metabolite perturbations and higher white matter injury scores compared to those without in both cooled and non-cooled groups (p = 0.001, p = 0.02). Abnormal outcomes were seen in 5/12 (42%) non-cooled and 7/29 (24%) cooled infants with progression (p = 0.26). Conclusions: Early biomarkers are needed to identify infants with mild HIE at risk of progression. Mild HIE infants with progression showed a higher incidence of brain injury and abnormal outcomes.
Clinical Evidence for Association of Acupuncture with Improved Major Depressive Disorder: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Control Trials
Authors: Xu Guixing , Xiao Qiwei , Huang Biqing , Lei Hanzhou , Yin Zihan , Huang Liuyang , Zhou Zhuo , Tian Hao , Huang Fengyuan , Liu Yilin , Sun Mingsheng , Zhao Ling , Liang Fanrong
Published: December 2022

Introduction: Depression is the most significant contributor to non-fatal health reductions worldwide. Acupuncture is the most commonly used complementary alternative therapy to relieve major depressive disorder (MDD) effectively. Nevertheless, the effects of acupuncture for MDD are uncertain. This review aimed to determine the efficacy and safety of acupuncture for MDD. Methods: Meta-analysis was performed for randomized controlled trials of acupuncture for MDD data from eight databases searched from inception until February 10, 2022. All RCTs with adult participants undergoing acupuncture treatment for MDD were included. The primary outcome measure was the Hamilton rating scale for depression (HAMD). We used random-effects meta-analysis to synthesize the results with a mean difference or odds ratio. Furthermore, the potential heterogeneity was tested through meta-regression/subgroup analyses/sensitive analysis. The quality of evidence for each outcome was assessed by the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation approach. Results: Forty-three studies were included: 9 acupuncture versus sham acupuncture (n = 920), 26 acupuncture versus antidepressants (n = 2169), and 9 acupuncture plus antidepressants versus antidepressants (n = 667). Of the 43 high-quality articles, 24 and 8 were determined to have a low and moderate risk of bias, respectively. The pooled results for HAMD and SDS revealed the clinical benefits of acupuncture or acupuncture plus antidepressants compared to sham acupuncture or antidepressants, with high-quality evidence. Furthermore, high-quality evidence showed that acupuncture led to fewer adverse effects than antidepressants. Conclusions: Acupuncture or acupuncture plus antidepressants were significantly associated with reduced HAMD scores, with high-quality evidence. Also, more rigorous trials are needed to identify the optimal frequency of acupuncture for MDD and integrate such evidence into clinical care to reduce antidepressant use.
Bronchoscopic Lung Volume Reduction in Patients with Emphysema due to Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency
Authors: Everaerts Stephanie , Hartman Jorine E. , Van Dijk Marlies , Koster T. David , Slebos Dirk-Jan , Klooster Karin
Published: December 2022

Background: Bronchoscopic lung volume reduction using one-way endobronchial valves (EBVs) is a valid therapy for severe emphysema patients. However, alpha-1 antitrypsin (AAT)-deficient patients were excluded from the majority of clinical trials investigating this intervention. Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate the feasibility, efficacy, and safety of EBV treatment in patients with AAT deficiency (AATD) or a reduced AAT level. Method: A retrospective analysis was performed of all patients treated with EBV with confirmed AATD or with a reduced AAT serum level at the University Medical Center Groningen between 2013 and 2021. Baseline and 6-month follow-up assessment included chest CT, pulmonary function measurement, 6-min walking distance (6MWD), and St. George’s Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ). Results: In total, 53 patients were included, 30 patients in the AATD group (AAT <0.6 g/L or confirmed ZZ phenotype) and 23 patients in the reduced AAT group (AAT 0.6–1 g/L). In both groups, all response variables improved significantly after treatment. There was a median increase in forced expiratory volume in 1 s of 105 mL (12% relative) and 280 mL (31% relative) in the AATD and reduced AAT groups, respectively. 6MWD increased by 62 min and 52 min, and SGRQ decreased by 12.5 patients and 18.7 patients, respectively. A pneumothorax occurred in 10% and 13% of patients, and no patients died. Conclusions: EBV treatment in patients with emphysema and AATD or a reduced AAT level is feasible and results in significant improvements in pulmonary function, exercise capacity, and quality of life and has an acceptable safety profile.
Get Off on the Right Foot: How to Plan an Efficient Leukocytapheresis to Collect T Cells for CAR T-Cell Manufacturing
Authors: Piñeyroa Juan A. , Cid Joan , Lozano Miquel
Published: December 2022

Background: The major drug regulatory agencies have approved chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells for the treatment of some B-cell lymphoproliferative diseases. Their use is expanding, and new indications will be approved. Efficient mononuclear cell collection by apheresis providing enough T cells is a critical step in further CAR T-cell manufacturing process. It is important that apheresis units are prepared for the collection of the required T cells for manufacturing with the highest efficiency and safety for the patient. Summary: Several series have studied different characteristics that could influence the collection efficiency of T cells for CAR T-cell manufacturing. Also, an effort has been made to identify predictors of the total number of target cells collected. Despite these publications and the large number of ongoing clinical trials, consensus protocols in apheresis are scarce. Key Messages: The aim of this review was to summarize the set of measures described to optimize apheresis and ensure patient safety. Moreover, we also propose, in a practical approach, a way to apply this knowledge to the daily routine in the apheresis unit.
Uniting hearts and minds: experiences from a pilot festival of youth creative expressions on mental health in India
Authors: Gaiha Shivani Mathur , Rahman Gulfam Fazlur , Siddiqui Iram , Bose Vijayluxmi , Krishnan Sujaya
Published: December 2022

Mental-health-related social stigma prevents youth from seeking timely help for mental health problems. The purpose of this study is to assess the feasibility and acceptability of a pilot arts intervention to reduce such stigma among college youth in India. The intervention included three sessions, focused on i) mental health education, ii) developing mental-health-themed art, and iii) a mental-health-themed festival to display art for an invited audience. We assessed feasibility through creation of student-generated art and acceptability in post-intervention surveys and video recordings. The intervention was completed by 371 participants who created 86 works of art (paintings, puppet-shows, drama, dance, and poetry), which was displayed to 434 audience members at uniting hearts and minds: a festival of creative expressions on mental health. Participants self-reported understanding causes and symptoms of mental health problems, interpreting experiences and expressed empathy (n = 194). Our pilot intervention engaged youth, showing potential to reduce mental-health-related stigma and to address feasibility issues related to reaching all colleges uniformly.
Blood cholesterol and its related factors among Indonesian blood donors
Authors: Nuari Nian Afrian , Aini Efa Nur , Widayati Dhina
Published: December 2022

Blood donation nowadays were considered to improve health status of the donors by declining human’s cholesterol level. The high level of cholesterol inside the blood bags influenced the blood quality. However, there was limited data about cholesterol level and its influencing factor on the blood donors. This cross-sectional study aimed to analyse the associated factors of cholesterol levels in blood donors. This study involved 120 respondents using the purposive sampling as sampling method. Data was collected using questionnaires and blood cholesterol examination. The obtained data was analysed using univariate and bivariate statistic tests with significance level α=0.05. This study found that the majority of respondents aged 35-45 years (60.8%) and male (60.8%). More than half respondents were routine to donate their blood. Although they consumed cholesterol foods, their cholesterol level remained normal (88.3%). This study also found that blood donation had an association with cholesterol level p=0.000, while the other variables did not show any relationship. The normal cholesterol level among blood donors was influenced by frequent blood donation. Further study needs to be explored about the activities and the foods type to identify the cholesterol level among blood donors.
Physical activities patterns among Indonesian pregnant women: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Lestari Elliza Widi , Gondodiputro Sharon , Martini Neneng , Yulita Indria
Published: December 2022

Many evidence revealed that physical activity (PA) has positive effects on pregnancy outcomes. Healthy pregnant women are suggested to have a combination of PA in light to moderate-intensity activities for 150 minutes per week. The purpose of this study was to analyze the type, the intensity of PA of pregnant women, and the average energy expenditure per week. A cross-sectional study involving 110 pregnant women who came from four community health centers in Bandung city, Indonesia was carried out from April to June 2021. The pregnancy physical activity questionnaire (PPAQ) was used to collect data. Descriptive data were presented using median and percentile. Mann-Whitney and Kruskal Wallis test were used to statistical test. The results of the study where the median energy expenditure per week was 250.50 METs. Most of the PA was light-intensity activities and household/child caring activities. There were still 10% pregnant women who did not exercise. Employed pregnant women had energy expenditure per week higher compared to unemployed pregnant women. Sports/exercise activities were seldom been carried out. This study demonstrated that during pandemic COVID-19, pregnant women are still doing PA. During pandemic COVID-19, health care providers should motivate healthy pregnant women to exercise by creating innovations using social media or online platforms so that pregnant women can exercise at home safely.
Peer facilitators’s role to support pregnant women in utilizing HIV services during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Camellia Artha , Swandari Plamularsih , Irwanto Irwanto , Rahma Gusni , Parwati Merati Tuti
Published: December 2022

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) prevalence on pregnant women in Indonesia is estimated around 0.3%. The prevention of mother-to-child disease transmission (PMTCT) program has been implemented nationally since 2008, though, less than 50% of the total pregnant women each year get an HIV test and only 18% of those who are HIV positive get antiretroviral (ARV) treatment until now. COVID-19 pandemic, occurred since 2019, has brought significant changes to public health aspects including the utilization of HIV services. This study is aimed to determine factors influencing the PMTCT program services utilization during pandemic. This study used mix method approach with quantitative approach using a cross-sectional study design (174 HIV mothers from six provinces in Indonesia) and qualitative approach with in-depth interviews of 13 informants consisting of HIV mothers, health workers, program holders and peer facilitators. The results showed the HIV services utilization during pandemic was 52.3%. The most influenced factor was peer facilitators support (POR 2.96; 95% CI=1.45-6.03), HIV mothers who did not receive assistance from peer facilitators had 2.96 times chance of not utilizing the services compared to them who received. It requires to strengthen cooperation between health services and peer facilitators to support HIV mothers in accessing HIV services.
Knowledge, motivation, attitude, job design and health cadre performance: a cross sectional study
Authors: Rinayati Rinayati , Harsono Harsono , Erawati Ambar Dwi
Published: December 2022

In 2020, the maternal mortality rate in Semarang increased to 98.6/100,000 and was ranked in the top 10 highest in Central Java. Until November 2021, there were 111 cases of Infant Mortality Rate (IMR), 195 cases of dengue fever, and 210 cases of malnutrition. The performance of health cadres and the role of the community must be improved. The results of observations in the field, the working cadres are still limited, and the performance of health cadres is considered not optimal. This cross-sectional study aimed to knowing the influential factors on performance of health cadres. The population of this study was all health cadres. The number of research samples was 68 respondents determined through the quota sampling. The source of data used in this study was primary data obtained through direct interviews using structured questionnaires. Data analysis used frequency distribution, bivariate, and multivariate analyses. Most of the health cadres have performed well (73.5%). The attitude of health cadres is the most influential factor on the performance of health cadres in improving health status in their area (p-value=0.001).
Development of cognitive behavioral module for out-of-wedlock pregnancy's depression and cognitive distortion
Authors: Zaiden Fauziah , Mahfar Mastura
Published: December 2022

Individuals who become pregnant out-of-wedlock require special attention because previous studies have shown that this group is prone to depression and cognitive distortion, which can have an impact on their psychological and life development. Therefore, this article discusses the process of development, validation, and reliability testing of the cognitive behavioral module (modul kognitif tingkah laku/MKT) to manage depression and cognitive distortion of out-of-wedlock pregnant trainees in one of the women’s shelters in Malaysia. This module contains four sub-modules, namely, psychoeducational, behavioral strategies, cognitive strategies and retention of productive behavior that have been developed using the cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) approach. The validation level assessed by seven expert panels indicated the validity value of the module content was .93. Meanwhile, the reliability test conducted using a questionnaire showed a reliability coefficient of .97. This article demonstrates how a systematic procedure can be used to develop and validate an effective module of depression and cognitive distortion before it can be administered in actual studies. The findings also prove that the MKT module can be applied by counselors or psychological officers to the problems of depression and cognitive distortion experienced by out-of-wedlock pregnant trainees in shelters.
Risk identification for early warning of bleeding among mothers during childbirth
Authors: Sulastri Sulastri , Siregar Tongku Nizwan , Adlim Muhammad , Hasanuddin Hasanuddin , Gholib Gholib , Suryani Lilis
Published: December 2022

The study was conducted using the observational method. It assessed blood loss using a calibrated measuring cup every 15 minutes in the first hour after delivery and every 30 minutes for the next hour. The results of the analysis showed that the modelling of early warning identification in laboring mothers is influenced by the age and weight of the mother, which is at a significance of 10%. A major warning sign is an increase in blood pressure rate in the third stage of labor which begins 15 minutes from the start of bleeding, and is categorized as dangerous when the blood volume reaches 600 mL. Therefore, every mother in labor must be monitored regularly and continuously and early warning signs must be taken into account. There is no safe time in cases of blood loss. It is very important to identify the risks in a timely manner to identify the source of bleeding so that it can be handled quickly and appropriately in order to prevent complications and maternal death due to postpartum haemorrhage (PPH). Implication, effective and optimal identification in clinical practice should be evidence-based in order to better determine whether or not intervention is needed to prevent blood loss after childbirth.
Heavy metals assessment of hospital wastewater during COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Sakina Nova Amalia , Sodri Ahyahudin , Kusnoputranto Haryoto
Published: December 2022

Hospital wastewater contains heavy metals that threaten environmental and human health through bioaccumulation and biomagnification. Each heavy metal contributes a different impact on human health and the environment. Monitoring the heavy metals in wastewater is essential to prevent those severe impacts. However, it is still rare for a study to assess heavy metals obtained from the discharge of hospital wastewater in Indonesia. Therefore, this study investigated 14 parameters of heavy metals in hospital wastewater. We tested wastewater quality from September 2021 to February 2022, with SNI 6989-59-2008 sampling methods with 14 parameters. Results show that over 14 parameters are still below the threshold value and other previous studies. It might be because the biological treatment used in the hospital wastewater treatment plant (HWWTP) reduces these micropollutants efficiently. The fluidized bed biofilm reactor (FBBR) system is an aerobic process with microorganisms attached to the bio-green. This technique is to form suspensions of solid particles in sparse media with gas streams for chemical or physical processes. The sewage discharge reveals the occurrence of heavy metals in hospital wastewater, even though it does not reveal a high concentration due to the effectiveness of the FBBR system in HWWTP.
The diagnostic value of ultrasound and mammography in detection of breast cancer in Albania
Authors: Laçi Ilirian , Bërdica Leart , Nina Helidon , Akshija Ilir , Spahiu Alketa , Toçi Ervin
Published: December 2022

Early detection of breast cancer is essential for improving patient survival. However, non-invasive imaging test have different diagnostic value. This study aimed to assess the diagnostic accuracy of mammography and ultrasound to detect breast malignancy in Albania. The 234 patients suspected with breast lesions in Albania during 2018-2022 were subjected to both mammograph and ultrasound and then to core needle biopsy (CNB). The BI-RADS classification was used to evaluate breast lesions. The diagnostic value of ultrasound, mammography and their combination were assessed. Mean age of participants was 55.97 years (96.2% females). Ultrasound detected higher proportions of high-risk patients compared to mammography (79.1% vs. 52.6%, respectively) but the combination of the two increased this figure even further (88.9%). The sensitivity of mammography increased quickly with age, peaking to 93.2% among patients >60 years old, whereas ultrasound has better sensitivity among younger participants (<45 years and 45-60 years); overall, the combined tests had the highest sensitivity (95.1%), followed by ultrasound (87.4%) and mammography (59.3%). In conclusion, the sensitivity of mammography is best among older patients whereas ultrasound seems to be more accurate among younger patients. The combination of mammography and ultrasound seems to increase the diagnostic accuracy of breast tumors among Albanian patients.
Immature Platelet Fraction Predicts Adverse Events in Patients With Acute Coronary Syndrome: the ISAR-REACT 5 Reticulated Platelet Substudy
Authors: Bongiovanni Dario , Schreiner Nina , Gosetti Rosanna , Mayer Katharina , Angiolillo Dominick J. , Sibbing Dirk , Holdenrieder Stefan , Anetsberger Aida , von Scheidt Moritz , Schunkert Heribert , Laugwitz Karl-Ludwig , Schüpke Stefanie , Kastrati Adnan , Fegers-Wustrow Isabel , Bernlochner Isabell
Published: December 2022

Background:

Immature or reticulated platelets are associated with impaired efficacy of antiplatelet drugs and adverse events in cardiovascular patients. Their role as a predictive biomarker in patients with acute coronary syndrome treated with potent P2Y
12
receptor inhibitors is not fully understood. We aimed to prospectively evaluate reticulated platelets as a predictor of the primary end point of the ISAR-REACT 5 trial consisting of death, myocardial infarction, or stroke at 1 year in patients with acute coronary syndrome randomized to prasugrel or ticagrelor.

Methods:

Immature platelet fraction (IPF) was assessed within 48 hours after randomization. Patients were divided based on the IPF median values: the IPF
high
group included patients with IPF>median and the IPF
low
group included patients with IPF≤median. Platelet aggregation was assessed using the Multiplate Analyzer and was correlated to IPF.

Results:

Five hundred seventy-seven patients were included in the study. IPF values in % (median [interquartile range]) within the first 48 hours did not differ between the two study groups: 3.6 (2.5–5.2)% in the prasugrel group and 3.6 (2.5–5.4)% in the ticagrelor group (
P
=0.882). The incidence of the primary end point was significantly higher in the IPF
high
(IPF>3.6%) group compared with the IPF
low
(IPF
≤
3.6%) group: 13.0% versus 7.2% (HR
adj
, 1.74 [1.02–3.00];
P
=0.044), independently from the assigned drug (
P
int
=0.159). No significant association between IPF and BARC 3 to 5 bleeding was observed. ADP-induced platelet aggregation correlated significantly with IPF in patients treated with prasugrel (
r
=0.22;
P
=0.005) while no correlation was detected in patients treated with ticagrelor (
r
=0.09;
P
=0.257).

Conclusions:

Independently from drug treatment, IPF was associated with the primary end point and therefore is a promising biomarker for the prediction of adverse cardiovascular events in patients with acute coronary syndrome treated with prasugrel or ticagrelor.

Registration:

https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
; Unique identifier: NCT01944800.
Distributional patterns of the South American species of Parastacidae (Decapoda, Astacidea)
Authors: De los Rios-Escalante Patricio R. , Jara-Seguel Pedro , Contreras Angel , Latsague Mirtha , Lara Gladys , Rudolph Erich , Crandall Keith A.
Published: December 2022

The distributional patterns of the species of the South American freshwater crayfishes of the family Parastacidae were analysed using panbiogeographical track analyses to identify targeted regions of crayfish biodiversity for understanding biogeographical patterns. Two generalized tracks were identified using the track analysis approach: (1) Uruguay and Brazil (Parastacus brasiliensis, P. brasiliensis promatensis, P. buckupi, P. caeruleodactylus, P. defossus, P. fluviatilis, P. gomesae, P. guapo, P. macanudo, P. pilimanus, P. pilicarpus, P. saffordi, P. tuerkayi, P. varicosus); and (2) Central-southern Chile (P. nicoleti, P. pugnax, Samastacus spinifrons, Virilastacus araucanius, V. jarai, V. retamali and V. rucapihuelensis). These areas were exclusive, with no overlap between them. The results indicate the presence of South American Parastacidae crayfish in Atlantic coastal sub-tropical and Pacific coastal temperate wet climate regions with biogeographic similarities to other South American inland water decapods.
Falling Out of Time, Relationships, and Mood: A Case Study of Post-Concussion Syndrome
Authors: Whitehead Patrick M. , Senecal Gary
Published: December 2022

In this article, the authors examine post-concussion syndrome (PCS) from an existential-phenomenological perspective, specifically as a Heideggerian analysis of Dasein (or Daseinsanalysis; Condrau, 1988). As a medical syndrome, PCS was once defined in terms of its pathophysiology. However, in the absence of reliable evidence of pathophysiology, PCS has been removed from the DSM-5. We have suspended the natural attitude, in this case the biomedical model, and have taken seriously the symptoms of PCS as indications that meaningful changes have occurred within the structure of the patient’s existence. Following the medical theories of Goldstein (1995) and Gadamer (1996), the authors describe the significance of PCS as it is lived by Tyrese, an NCAA Division II football player whose series of concussions left him permanently sidelined. Careful consideration is paid to the existential dimensions of the syndrome, specifically the backgrounds of temporality, sociality, and attunement. In conclusion, a new approach to rehabilitation is explored.
Concessions in International Law
Authors: Alvik Ivar
Published: December 2022

The article examines the extent to which concessionary rights are protected under three different branches of international law; traditional customary law, the case law of the European Court of Human Rights, and arbitral practice under investment treaties. It reveals clear similarities with respect to when such rights are considered protected. However, it simultaneously argues that case law under investment treaties tends to adopt a less nuanced approach to the nature of such rights, almost invariably assuming them to constitute a kind of property. This again entails that the investor/concessionaire is seen to have a right to performance, and in effect to protection of his expectation interest. The article shows how this stands in contrast with a more nuanced perspective under the property provision of the echr, which better reflects the complexities of the issue under municipal law. While a failure to sufficiently respect an investor’s legitimate expectations may entail liability for the state, it is not necessarily comparable to expropriation of property and will usually entail only that the investor has a right to recover his reliance loss. The article argues that this may be reflective of a more general tendency in international investment law and arbitration also pointed to by others, where the modality of protection under investment treaties threatens to distort important nuances and concerns and overprotect foreign investment compared to other private rights and interests under municipal law.
Integration (of Immigrants) in the European Union: A Controversial Concept
Authors: Bottero Matteo
Published: December 2022

Integration is one of the major challenges posed to the European Union by the immigration of third-country nationals. And it is even more so in view of the mass influx of displaced persons stemming from the Russian military invasion of Ukraine. This article discusses the controversial concept of (immigrant) integration underpinned by the current EU legal and policy framework. It argues that, on the one hand, the concept of integration resulting from instruments of primary and secondary EU legislation, soft law and policy is inspired by the respect for fundamental rights and prohibition of discrimination. On the other hand, it stresses that the EU action mainly aims at preserving Member States’ sovereignty over immigration. The resulting EU normative framework for integration, including the newly adopted EU Blue Card Directive and the extension of temporary protection for Ukrainian refugees, allows and encourages the strategic selection of the most socio-economically and culturally desirable immigrants.
On ‘Safety’ and EU Externalization of Borders:
Authors: Giuffré Mariagiulia , Denaro Chiara , Raach Fatma
Published: December 2022

This article questions whether Tunisia – a country of departure, transit and destination of migrants and refugees, and a key interlocutor in EU externalization and readmission policies – can be considered a “safe country of origin” for Tunisian nationals and a “safe third country” for foreigners in search of protection. In discussing the rapidly evolving domestic legal and political system and the treatment of minorities, vulnerable groups, and refugees in Tunisia, this article adopts a socio-legal perspective also relying on interviews with key stakeholders.

Finally, it proposes a reflection on the main (conceptual and empirical) elements of continuity between the “safe country of origin” notion and the “safe third country” one, by highlighting their deep relationship, how they may mutually influence each other, and the need to reconnect various perspectives on safety, avoiding reproducing Eurocentric analytic approaches, interpretations, and narratives.
Contemplating the Lundy Model as a Framework for Children’s Participation in Peace Negotiations
Authors: Molloy Sean
Published: December 2022

Peace agreements attempt to do more than end war. Ostensibly, they can also serve as the foundation for a new post-conflict state, one underpinned by fairness, equality and inclusion. Ensuring that children’s issues are included in a peace accord is, therefore, viewed as essential for the realisation of their rights in the post-conflict state. Yet there is scant consideration dedicated to understanding or theorising how and whether the perspectives of children can be heard during peace negotiations. This is despite research demonstrating that who is included in peace talks can impact the content of the subsequent peace agreement. This article considers the potential benefits and challenges associated with applying the Lundy Model of child participation to peace negotiations. It argues that while difficulties are likely to exist, this framework could provide a useful starting point for thinking more seriously about the possibilities and avenues that exist for the inclusion of children’s voices during peace talks.
From Politics of Location to Its De-politicization in One Man’s Bible by Gao Xingjian
Authors: Chishti Farida
Published: December 2022

Drawing on the Deleuzian theory of de-territorialization of the subject from the center of power, this article picks up the controversy regarding Gao Xingjian’s misogyny with reference to his second novel One Man’s Bible and presents an alternative perspective on his gender treatment. With the help of textual analysis, it contends that far from being anti-feminist as is generally assumed in critical circles, Gao is gender neutral, and allows the same subjective agency to woman as man. Both male and female protagonists in the novel tend to hegemonize each other on the basis of their location in the geo-political or socio-cultural scale of power until each dislocates from his/her power base to undergo a qualitative transformation that changes their world view. It is their minority position which helps them surmount their tendency to hegemonize or minoritize the other and thus to become “minortarian.”
Novelties in Stigmatodon (Bromeliaceae, Tillandsioideae), a genus endemic to Brazil: three new species, one new combination, and two new stigma types
Authors: LEME ELTON M. C. , COUTO DAYVID R. , J. C. KOLLMANN LUDOVIC , NICOLETTI DE FRAGA CLAUDIO
Published: December 2022

The authors describe, discuss, and illustrate three epilithic new species of Stigmatodon, S. ilhanus, S. itamarajuensis, and S. viridibracteatus, restricted to vertical rock walls in inselbergs located in the states of Bahia and Espírito Santo, Brazil, and propose a new combination, transferring the endemic Vriesea vexata from rupestrian fields in Minas Gerais state to Stigmatodon. The stigma morphology of Stigmatodon, which is one of the most important distinctive features of this genus, is reevaluated and illustrated, with the recognition of two new types, the convolute-blade type III (stigmadontoid type) and the tubo-laciniate type II. These new stigma types suggest a morphological bridge between the typical tubo-laciniate type I and the convolute-blade types I and II and represent a relevant progress in understanding the morphological boundaries of Stigmatodon.
Mirroring Cultural Fear, Anxiety and Dystopia in American Cinematography: The Movie “A.I.” (2001)
Authors: Pelea Cringuta Irina
Published: December 2022

Through this essay, we aim to provide a sociological and cultural analysis of how the film A.I. Artificial Intelligence, directed by Steven Spielberg, explores the subconscious and culturally specific Western fear of humanoid robots. While the background of the story tackles the problematics of the multilevel emotional relationship between robots and humans, the movie’s dystopian and apocalyptic discourse feeds the Western public’s increasing technophobia, by encompassing “fear” in its philosophical, social and cultural dimensions: “the loss of humanity,” “the imminence of disaster,” and “the apocalyptic and irreversible destruction of Earth.”
Moreover, the film goes beyond the mere depiction of technophobia while subtly addressing some worldwide contemporary problems of high interest, such as pollution, starvation, overpopulation, or nature’s destruction on a global scale. In this eschatological, hopeless and post-human scenario, the depiction of David as a robot child expressing his eternal love for his distant adoptive human parents metaphorically illustrates the continuous altering of traditional human kinship, robotization, and alienation of the human race, which is on the verge of being enslaved by the technological wrath. However, David makes an allegorical transition from symbolizing the fearful Otherness to bringing the redemption of humanity’s vestige and marking the survival of the human species, albeit in a radically altered form: He becomes “the new human.”
No such thing as a free donation? Research funding and conflicts of interest in nuclear weapons policy analysis
Authors: Egeland Kjølv , Pelopidas Benoît
Published: December 2022

Numerous scholars have in recent years concluded that the field of nuclear weapons policy analysis is plagued by widespread self-censorship, conformism, and enduring disconnects between accepted knowledge and available evidence. It has been hypothesized that this tendency is fostered in part by many analysts’ reliance on funding from donors with interests in the perpetuation of the existing nuclear order. In this article, we probe this hypothesis by investigating the financial links between foreign policy think tanks, on the one hand, and nuclear defence contractors and governments that espouse nuclear deterrence strategies, on the other. Relying on semi-structured interviews and a survey of the funding sources of 45 of the world’s top think tanks, we find, first, that effectively all think tanks in the sample accepted funding from nuclear vested interests and, second, that such ‘stakeholder funding’ has real effects on intellectual freedom. Given the widely-held view that democracy relies on intellectual independence, this finding calls for a serious debate about conflicts of interest in foreign policy analysis generally and nuclear policy analysis specifically.
Young children’s representation of people who are elsewhere—Or dead
Authors: Harris Paul L.
Published: December 2022

Given the legacy of John Bowlby, Attachment theory has often portrayed separation from a caregiver as likely to provoke protest, despair, and ultimately detachment in infants and young children. Indeed, the emotional challenge of separation is built into a key measurement tool of Attachment theory, the Strange Situation. However, James Robertson, one of Bowlby’s leading collaborators, voiced dissent. He argued that young children can cope with separations—even when they last for several days or weeks. They are able to keep the absent person in mind provided an alternative, familiar caregiver remains available. Observational and experimental findings lend support to Robertson’s claim. Recent analyses of natural language provide further support. Although young toddlers (ranging from 20 to 26 months) often make contact- or attachment-related comments about absent caregivers, such comments become less frequent with age whereas reflective references to absent caregivers—comments that do not express contact-related concerns about their absence—are often produced by young toddlers and remain frequent throughout early childhood. Children’s early-emerging ability to keep an absent attachment figure in mind raises intriguing questions about their responses to the permanent absence of an attachment figure—as in the case of death. Consistent with contemporary research showing that many grieving adults report continuing bonds to a deceased attachment figure—rather than a gradual process of emotional detachment—children also report such continuing bonds. By implication, children and adults are prone to construe the death of a loved one not just as a biological endpoint that terminates the possibility of any continuing relationship but instead as a departure that can be bridged by a continuation of the earlier bond in an altered form.
Coaching While Black: Race, Leadership, and the National Football League
Authors: Gomer Justin , Ossei-Owusu Shaun
Published: December 2022

This article examines the lack of racial diversity among the National Football League's (NFL) head coaches. Focusing on each new coaching cohort since 2013, when all eight of the newly hired head coaches were white, we contest common explanations offered by the League and many sports journalists. Specifically, we challenge the assumption that the racial homogeneity of the coaching population stems from the league's current premium on offensive-oriented coaches, who are overwhelmingly white. Through a careful examination of the experiences of every NFL head coach hired in the last nine years—prior credentials, win-loss records, job prospects if they are fired, among others—we argue that race remains a fundamental determinant in the opportunities of prospective head coaches. We therefore contend that commonly proposed solutions like expanding the Rooney Rule—a league rule established in 2003 that requires all teams to interview at least one person of color when filling a head coaching vacancy—fail to adequately account for the multitude of ways race still operates in hiring and promoting NFL coaches.
Shifting frames: Two doctoral students’ identity construction as music teacher educators
Authors: Tucker Olivia Gail , Adams Kari
Published: December 2022

The purpose of this study was to examine our music teacher educator (MTE) identity construction. Our research questions were: (a) How did we describe our MTE identity construction during our doctoral education? and (b) What experiences were most salient in our MTE identity construction during our doctoral education? We used basic qualitative methods to conduct a self-study of our transition from music educators to teacher educators. Hermans and Hermans-Konopka’s dialogical self theory was our theoretical framework. Through analysis, our findings coalesced around three themes: (a) experiences of uncertainty and tension related to who we were as people; (b) wrestling with uncertainty through internal conflict, open-ended mentorship, gradually adopting nuance, fearing rejection, and seeking acceptance; and (c) an expanded sense of self as we incorporated parts of being an MTE into our whole selves, embraced agency in meaning-making, accepted tension, and began offering transformative experiences to our students. Implications for music teacher education are discussed.
The role of community councils in probation reform
Authors: Tyler Elliot
Published: December 2022

A great benefit exists in giving people on probation the ability to contribute their ideas to the process of ongoing change. The direct experiences of people on probation, and embracing ‘lived experience’, can bring valuable input and unique insights as to what is and is not working within probation. In this comment piece, I outline – through a case study and relevant comment – how service user councils can act as a key reference for the evaluation and improvement of probation services.
Cardiopulmonary bypass parameters improve the prediction of 30-day mortality following cardiac surgery
Authors: Newland Richard F , Baker Robert A
Published: December 2022

Currently 30-day mortality is commonly used as a quality indicator for cardiac surgery; however, prediction models have not included the role of cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). We hypothesized that reproducing currently utilised prediction model methods of 30-day mortality using the Australian and New Zealand Collaborative Perfusion Registry (ANZCPR) would identify relevant CPB predictors. Nine centers in Australia and New Zealand collected data using the ANZCPR between 2011–2020. CPB parameter selection was determined by evaluating association with 30-day mortality. Data were divided into model creation ( n = 15,073) and validation sets ( n = 15,072). Bootstrap sampling and automated variable selection methods were used to develop candidate models. The final model was selected using prediction mean square error and Bayesian Information Criteria. The average receiver operating characteristic (ROC), p-value for Hosmer—Lemeshow chi-squared test and MSE were obtained from multifold validation. In total, 30,145 patients were included, of which 735 (2.4%) died within 30 day of surgery. The area under the ROC curve for the model including CPB parameters was significantly greater than preoperative risk factors only (0.829 vs 0.783, p < 0.001). CPB parameters included in the predictive model were CPB time, red blood cell transfusion, mean arterial pressure <50 mmHg, minimum oxygen delivery, cardiac index <1.6 L/min/m2. CPB parameters improve the prediction of 30-day mortality. Randomised trials designed to evaluate modifiable CPB parameters will determine their impact on mortality.