The availability of a protective vaccine against Streptococcus pyogenes (group A Streptococcus [GAS]) is a priority for public health worldwide. Here, we have generated six live vaccine strains, each engineered to express an N-terminal M protein peptide from one of six of the most prevalent emm types of GAS (M1, M2, M4, M9, M12, and M28). The vaccine strains are based on a food-grade Lactococcus lactis strain and do not bear any antibiotic resistance. Mice immunized with the vaccine strain expressing the M9 peptide (termed here the L. lactis M9 strain) showed high titers of serum antibodies when delivered intranasally. Mice immunized with the L. lactis M9 strain were protected against infection after intranasal challenge with type 9 streptococci. Several parameters of disease, such as weight loss, body temperature, colony counts in mouth washes, and lung histology, were significantly improved in immunized mice compared to naive control mice. Our results indicate that intranasal delivery of the L. lactis M9 strain live bacterial vaccine induced GAS-specific IgG titers, prevented pharyngeal colonization of GAS, and protected mice from disease upon challenge. The design of this vaccine prototype may provide a lower cost alternative to vaccines comprised of purified recombinant proteins.
Introduction: Research shows high rates of discrimination against the transgender population in healthcare centers, which has negative consequences for their quality of life. There are few studies in this area that focus upon the experiences of trans men, although, they tend to experience higher levels of violence and stigmati-zation in healthcare settings. Method: We explored the perceptions of 14 Chilean trans men regarding discrimination in healthcare centers from an ethnographic approach, with the aim of analyzing their experiences in these facilities, and identifying their needs in relation to healthcare. Results: The majority of trans men perceived health centers as a source of discrimination. The most important expressions of discrimination involve questioning their gender identity, and disregarding their social names and pronouns. In view of this, interviewees placed fear of discrimination as the main factor preventing them from being attended at healthcare centers. On the other hand, having access to health workers who are trained in providing care to the transgender population, being provided with information, and the possibility of receiving psychosocial support are the main factors promoting their attendance at these facilities. Discussion: The study has implications both for health professionals and public policies focused on the transmasculine community. Recommendations are made for professionals and administrative staff to provide respectful and sympathetic care in order to generate spaces free of discrimination that encourage attendance at healthcare centers, improving the welfare of trans men.
The study of masculinities in Latin-American is becoming increasingly relevant; however, trans men (TM) have been highly disregarded. This is problematic, given that the transmasculine population can highlight tension upon the binary gender practices. Latin-American research has maintained a biomedical perspective, with emphasis on sexual readjustment treatments, ignoring the subjective experience of TM regarding their identity construction, and the sociocultural implications of experiencing their identity as men, considering Latin-American gender patterns and machismo. Under this premise, 14 Chilean TM were interviewed. Results show the heteronormative demands imposed on TM, which determine the expectations and interpretations associated with their transition process. This leads TM to perpetuate stereotypical gender patterns, which is a survival strategy, and at the same time promotes the maintenance of patriarchal privileges. In a transversal manner, it was observed that TM have new perspectives on masculinity, which allow for the questioning of traditional gender roles.
PurposeTo explore trans men's access and use of healthcare services in Chile, based on the experiences of the trans men themselves, as well as of healthcare professionals.MethodsA qualitative study with an ethnographic approach was carried out with 30 participants: 14 trans men and 16 healthcare professionals. Semi‐structured one‐on‐one interviews with open‐ended questions were used to collect the data. A thematic analysis was carried out with the NVivo Software.ResultsThree main themes were identified: (1) failures in the recognition of trans identity, (2) challenges with patient‐centered care, and (3) use of other (“non‐trans”) health services.ConclusionsThe results suggest that not all transition processes are the same, individuals seek different ways; therefore, it is necessary to consider different body types and identities when planning programs and care for men in transition. Moreover, the accompaniment provided during the gender transition process should contemplate emotional and mental support.Clinical RelevanceThe study outlines the need for all healthcare professionals to have training and knowledge about the transgender population, regardless of whether they are part of the teams supporting gender transition processes. The role of nurses and the contributions that can be made from nursing discipline in this research field are fundamental.
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