bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MammaPrint and BluePrint comprehensively capture the cancer hallmarks in early‐stage breast cancer patients
Authors: Haan Josien C. , Bhaskaran Rajith , Ellappalayam Architha , Bijl Yannick , Griffioen Christian J. , Lujinovic Ersan , Audeh William M. , Penault‐Llorca Frédérique , Mittempergher Lorenza , Glas Annuska M.
Published: November 2021

MammaPrint® (MP) is a 70‐gene signature that stratifies early‐stage breast cancer patients into low‐ and high risk of distant relapse. Further stratification of MP risk results identifies four risk subgroups, ultra‐low (UL), low, high 1, and high 2, with specific prognostic and predictive outcomes. BluePrint® (BP) is an 80‐gene signature that classifies breast tumors as basal, luminal, or HER2 molecular subtype. To gain insight into their biological significance, we annotated the MP 70‐ and BP 80‐genes with respect to the 10 hallmarks of cancer (HoC). Furthermore, we related gene expression profiles of the extreme ends of the MP low‐ and high‐risk patients (here called, ultra‐low (UL) and ultra‐high (UH) or High2, respectively), to the 10 HoC per BP subtype by differential gene expression and pathway analysis. MP and BP gene functions reflected all 10 HoCs. Most MP and BP genes were associated with sustaining proliferative signaling, followed by genome instability and mutation categories. Based on the gene expression profiles, UL and UH subgroup pathways were down ‐or upregulated, respectively, reflecting proliferative and metastatic features, such as G2M checkpoint, DNA repair, oxidative phosphorylation, immune invasion, PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling, and hypoxia pathways. Notably, the UH HER2‐type was enriched in several immune signaling pathways, such as IL2/STAT5 signaling and TNFα signaling via NFκB. Our results show that MP and BP gene signatures represent and capture all 10 HoCs and highlight underlying biological processes of MP extreme samples, which might guide treatment decisions as the signature captures the full spectrum of early breast cancers.
Comprehensive gene cluster analysis of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma TCGA RNA‐seq data defines B cell immunity‐related genes as a robust survival predictor
Authors: Feng Xin , Zhang Tan , Chou Jeff , Liu Liang , Miller Lance D. , Sullivan Christopher A. , Browne James D.
Published: November 2021

Background

The authors aimed to define novel gene expression signatures that are associated with patients' survival with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC).

Methods

TCGA RNA‐seq data were used for gene expression clusters extraction from 499 tumor samples by the “EPIG” method. Tumor samples were then partitioned into lower and higher than median level groups for survival relevant analysis by Kaplan–Meier estimator.

Results

We found that two gene clusters (_1, _2) are favorably, while two (_3, _4) are unfavorably, associated with patients' survival with HNSCC. Notably, most genes on the top lists of cluster_2 are associated with B cells. A gene expression signature with combined genes from cluster_2 and _4 was further determined to be associated with HNSCC survival rate.

Conclusion

Our work strongly supported a favorable role of B cells in patients' survival with HNSCC and identified a novel coexpressed gene signature as prognostic biomarker for patients' survival with HNSCC estimation.
Estimation of Nonhomogeneous Noise in 2D Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Shukla Vedant , Khandekar Prasad , Khaparde Arti
Published: November 2021

Magnetic resonance images are often influenced by noise. Reliable estimation of noise characteristics is important for image post‐processing. The benchmark algorithms often assume a uniform noise model across the image; that is, the noise features are spatially invariant. A few noise estimators are found to cope with nonhomogeneous noise; however, they either require multiple acquisitions or other additional information. In this research work, we develop a method that can accurately estimate the nonhomogeneous parameters of noise from just a single magnitude image. The proposed algorithm is a two‐step approach. In the first step, we evaluate the standard deviation of noise assuming that it follows Gaussian distribution. This step utilizes a hybrid of spatial domain edge information suppression and transforms domain coefficient statistics to estimate a single value of standard deviation of noise in magnitude MR images. In the second step, the evaluated noise is corrected using the analytical expression that establishes the relationship between Gaussian noise and Rician noise. Results on synthetic and clinical data evidence the better performance of the proposed algorithm when compared to the benchmark methods.
Developing sulfur‐doped titanium oxide nanoparticles loaded chitosan/cellulose‐based proangiogenic dressings for chronic ulcer and burn wounds healing
Authors: Aleem Abdur R. , Shahzadi Lubna , Nasir Muhammad , Hajivand Pegah , Alvi Farah , Akhtar Amna , Zehra Mubashra , Mehmood Azra , Yar Muhammad
Published: November 2021

Development of biomaterials supporting angiogenesis are highly desired in medical applications. In current work, chitosan and cellulose were cross‐linked by using triethyl orthoformate and loaded with sulfur‐doped titanium oxide nanoparticles. A readily available and inexpensive titanium oxide was added as a potential proangiogenic agent based on our group findings and other reports on metal oxide nanoparticles activity to stimulate angiogenesis. A simple freeze gelation method led to the development of flexible, foldable, and porous membranes. To investigate the chemical characteristics of the synthesized membranes, Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy was used. Scanning electron microscopy equipped with energy‐dispersive X‐ray microanalysis was employed for surface morphological investigations. The cross‐linked membranes showed higher degree of swelling capacity compared to the same material with titania‐loaded nanoparticles in vitro. The synthesized materials showed higher degree of degradation in H2O2 as compared to phosphate‐buffered saline and lysozyme. Chorioallantoic membrane assay was done to investigate the angiogenic potential. Titanium oxide nanoparticles loaded membranes (CLHTS‐5 wt%) exhibited the best degree of angiogenesis in comparison to the other tested materials. In CLHTS‐5 wt% experimental group, a good level of attachment and ingrowth of several blood vessels was observed. Interestingly, the same tested group (CLHTS‐5 wt%) had shown the increasing trend of cellular metabolic rate of the seeded cells from Day 0 to Day 7 in vitro. These findings were further confirmed by the decline in lactate dehydrogenase enzyme release which was monitored until 72 h, indicating the promising ability of this biomaterial in wound healing applications.
Inter‐model spreading of changes in East Asian winter monsoon circulation under 1.5 and 2.0°C global warming targets
Authors: Xu Zhiqing , Fan Ke
Published: November 2021

This study investigates inter‐model spreading of changes in East Asian winter monsoon circulation and the underlying reasons under 1.5 and 2.0°C global warming for Representative Concentration Pathway 8.5. Results show that the spatial patterns of multi‐model ensemble and inter‐model spreading of changes in 850‐hPa zonal and meridional winds over East Asia are similar under the two global warming targets. The multi‐model ensemble changes in 850‐hPa meridional wind (V850) over southern China are near zero under the two targets. Meanwhile, the V850 changes over southern China exhibit large inter‐model spreading, which is closely related to those of regional differences in sea surface temperature changes (DSSTC) in the tropical Pacific. Models with positive V850 anomalies over southern China tend to project weak (strong) surface warming in the western North Pacific (South China Sea and the equatorial central and eastern Pacific). Such a configuration results in decreased precipitation over the east of the Philippines and hence an anomalous lower‐level high to its northwest. Accordingly, southwesterly anomalies prevail over southern China. The southwesterly anomalies are further enhanced by related positive feedback processes. Models with negative V850 anomalies tend to project strong (weak) surface warming in the western North Pacific (South China Sea). The projected surface warming in the equatorial central and eastern Pacific is also strong, but weaker than that of models with positive V850 anomalies. Therefore, the induced precipitation and circulation changes over the East Asia–western North Pacific are basically opposite to those described above. Besides, the inter‐model spreading of V850 changes over southern China decrease by about 36.2% from 1.5 to 2.0°C global warming, which can be partly attributed to the decrease in the inter‐model spreading of DSSTC in the tropical Pacific. Numerical experiments confirm the role of the sea surface temperature changes in the tropical Pacific.
Target profiling of flavonol glycosides in the extract of Ginkgo biloba leaf and their pharmacokinetics in rat plasma by ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Qu Cheng , Wen Jia‐Hui , Li Ping , Gao Wen , Yang Hua
Published: November 2021

The extract of Ginkgo biloba leaf is a popular herbal product or dietary supplement in the world to treat various diseases, and flavonol glycosides are considered as the main bioactive constituents. In this study, 37 flavonol glycosides were rapidly screened out by precursor ion scanning in positive ion mode with production ions at m/z 287.05, 303.05, and 317.06. Subsequently, a reliable and sensitive ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with triple quadrupole‐linear ion trap mass spectrometry approach was established and validated to quantify the 20 prototype flavonol glycosides in rat plasma. Calibration curves showed good linearity (R2 ≥ 0.9894) over the corresponding concentration range. The precision, accuracy, extraction recovery, matrix effect, and stability were also satisfactory. The validated method was successfully applied to a pharmacokinetic study of prototype flavonol glycosides in rat after oral administration of the extract of G. biloba leaf. As a result, the Tmax of flavonol glycosides was short at 0.11–0.60 h. Quercetin‐3‐O‐(2“,6″‐di‐O‐rhamnosyl)‐glucoside, kaempferol‐3‐O‐(2′',6′'‐di‐O‐rhamnosyl)‐glucoside, quercetin‐3‐O‐rutinoside, quercetin‐ 3‐O‐glucosyl‐(1‐2)‐O‐rhamnoside, and kaempferol‐3‐O‐glucoside presented relatively high systemic exposure levels with AUC0‐∞ > 500 μg h/L and Cmax > 100 μg/L. This study would provide the valuable information for further scientific research and clinical application of the extract of G. biloba leaf.
Species‐specific foraging behaviors define the functional roles of sympatric stingrays
Authors: Crook Kevin A. , Sheaves Marcus , Barnett Adam
Published: November 2021

Animals that disrupt sediments through burrowing or foraging contribute to ecosystem function through bioturbation and ecosystem engineering processes linked to their excavation behavior. Empirical evidence linking behavior with function is rare; yet this information is critical for assessing species‐specific functional roles. Using two stingray species, Himantura australis and Pastinachus ater, as model ecosystem engineers, we empirically investigated how foraging behavior influenced the functional roles of sympatric species. Drone observations of stingray foraging revealed a strong link between behavior and function. Excavation feeding created the largest feeding pits and accounted for 58–67% of sediment turnover despite occurring in only 22–31% of feeding events. Although both H. australis and P. ater were capable of excavation feeding, less disruptive foraging behaviors were often favored over excavation. Differences in space use and behavior revealed that functional roles of sympatric stingrays are different yet complementary, which may enhance ecosystem productivity. High feeding rates combined with frequent use of disruptive feeding behaviors resulted in higher bioturbation rates for H. australis than for P. ater. On the other hand, P. ater made fewer feeding pits but foraged over a broader sandflat area than H. australis. Consequently, H. australis have intense, localized bioturbation and ecosystem engineering impacts, while P. ater is likely to promote nutrient dispersal over a larger area. Overall, results suggest that functional roles are dependent on complex interactions between feeding behavior and space use, meaning an extensive understanding of engineering activities is required before similar functional roles can be assumed for even morphologically similar species.
Mesh stiffness calculation and vibration analysis of the spur gear pair with tooth crack, considering the misalignment between the base and root circles
Authors: Hou Jingyu , Yang Shaopu , Li Qiang , Liu Yongqiang , Wang Jiujian
Published: November 2021

An improved variable cross‐section cantilever beam model for evaluating the time‐varying mesh stiffness (TVMS) of the perfect gear tooth is developed in which the tooth number of driving gear is less than 42 and that of driven is more than 42. The TVMS obtained by the proposed method is compared with the result without considering the misalignment between the base circle and gear root. Four types of root crack models and changes in TVMS of 13‐crack levels are presented. The fault vibration characteristic of a single‐stage spur gear reducer with root crack is analyzed and the correctness is qualitatively verified by the vibration signals of an experimental gearbox with crack or missing failure. The results presented in this paper are of great significance for a deep understanding of the possible causes of vibration and noise of gears and provide a theoretical foundation for the fault diagnosis of the gearbox.
Oral collision cancer: A case report and literature review of simultaneous squamous cell and adenoid cystic carcinoma of the oral mucosa
Authors: Ogane Satoru , Kawano Takamasa , Hiraga (Kondo) Chiho , Suzuki Taiki , Hashimoto Kazuhiko , Nomura Takeshi
Published: November 2021

Background

Collision cancer consists of two histologically distinct and topographically independent tumors in the same lesion and is extremely rare in the oral mucosa.

Case Presentation

We describe a case of oral collision cancer consisting of squamous cell and adenoid cystic carcinomas in the buccal mucosa of a 76‐year‐old man. Accurate diagnosis of resected specimens is histopathologically important in follow‐up as it can significantly affect treatment planning and prognosis.

Conclusion

This case illustrates the importance of considering oral collision cancer comprising two cancerous components.
Glasses‐shaped triblock copolymer prepared by combination of atom transfer radical polymerization and ring opening polymerization
Authors: Lee Jieun , Kim Kyoungho , Lee Hong Chan , Kim Dongwoo , Kwon Myeonghee , Joo Hongil , Cho Hong Y. , Jeon Heung Bae , Paik Hyun‐jong
Published: November 2021

A glasses‐shaped triblock copolymer of poly(ε‐caprolactone)‐b‐polystyrene‐b‐poly(ε‐caprolactone) (PCL‐b‐PS‐b‐PCL) is prepared by combining atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) and ring opening polymerization (ROP). Polystyrene (PS) star polymers are prepared via ATRP using a tetra‐functional initiator, followed by azidation to yield azide end‐functionalized star polymers. An alkyne‐functionalized coupling agent, 2,2‐bis[(2‐propyn‐1‐yloxy)methyl]‐1‐propanol is employed to produce hydroxy 8‐shaped PS via copper(I)‐catalyzed alkyne‐azide cycloaddition. Herein, hydroxy 8‐shaped PS with high purity is obtained through preparative size exclusion chromatography (Prep SEC) and high‐performance liquid chromatography, followed by the characterizations using matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (MALDI‐TOF MS), size exclusion chromatography (SEC), infrared, and proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR) spectroscopy. The hydroxy groups of the 8‐shaped PS are utilized as initiators for the ROP of ε‐caprolactone to obtain linear chains attached to the 8‐shaped architecture. After SEC fractionation, the glasses‐shaped triblock copolymer is characterized using 1H NMR and SEC. This unprecedented topology possesses two free chain‐ends and two cycles; thus, both the properties of linear and cyclic polymers may be expected to be observed.
Sputtering‐Deposited Thin Films on Textiles for Solar and Heat Managements: A Mini‐Review
Authors: Hu Qiao , Wang Jie , Lu Yuehui , Tan Ruiqin , Li Jia , Song Weijie
Published: November 2021

The application of magnetron sputtering technology in the functionalization of textiles has attracted increasing attention owing to its green nature. The thin films deposited on textiles provide additional opportunities for precise control of solar and heat flows by tuning the optical properties. In this review, the principles of color regulation, thermal management (including photothermal conversion and reflective insulation) properties, and simultaneous color and thermal management of sputtered thin films based on their interaction with solar radiation (visible and near‐infrared light) and thermal radiation are briefly summarized, and their research progress in textile coloring and thermal management as well as thermal management of colored textiles is reviewed. In addition, the challenging and future research of sputtered films on textiles for coloring and thermal management is briefly presented.
Investigation on the Stability and Efficiency of MAPbI3 and MASnI3 Thin Films for Solar Cells
Authors: Marí-Guaita Julia , Bouich Amal , Shafi Muhammad Aamir , Bouich Asmaa , Marí Bernabé
Published: November 2021

Hybrid organic–inorganic halides are considered as outstanding materials when used as the absorber layer in perovskite solar cells (PSCs) because of its efficiency, relieve of fabrication and low‐cost materials. However, the content of lead (Pb) in the material may origin a dramatic after effect on human's health caused by its toxicity. Here, we investigate replacing the lead in MAPbI3 with tin (Sn) to show its influence on the growth of the film nucleation and stability of the solar device based on MASnI3. By analysing the manufactured perovskite films by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), UV–visible absorption, photoluminescence (PL) and atomic force microscopy (AFM), the properties of the thin films when lead is replaced by tin are reported. The simulation run for the case of MAPbI3 is reported, where Voc = 0.856 V, Jsc = 25.65 mA cm−2, FF = 86.09%, and ETA = 18.91%, and for MASnI3, Voc = 0.887 V, Jsc = 14.02 mA cm−2, FF = 83.72%, and ETA = 10.42%. In perovskite‐based devices using MASnI3 as absorber, it was found to be more stable despite of its lower efficiency, which could be improved by enhancing the bandgap alignment of MaSnI3. The results of this paper also allow the development of a new, reliable production system for PSCs.
A Rapid Corneal Healing Microneedle for Efficient Ocular Drug Delivery
Authors: Shi Hui , Zhou Jianhong , Wang Yuan , Zhu Yutuo , Lin Deqing , Lei Lei , Vakal Serhii , Wang Jiaqing , Li Xingyi
Published: November 2021

Fungal keratitis (FK) remains a serious clinical problem worldwide, so the ultimate goal of the treatment is to develop a minimally invasive, safe, and effective method for ocular drug delivery. Here, a minimally invasive delivery system is reported for treating FK by using a dissolving microneedle (MN)‐array patch based on Poly(D,L‐lactide) (PLA) and hyaluronic acid (HA). By altering the concentration of PLA, MN patches with excellent properties are modified and optimized. The 30% PLA‐HA MN patches penetrate the corneal epithelial layer reversibly with no apparent ocular irritation as well as a short recovery time of less than 12 h, and increase the residence time by 2.5 h in the conjunctival sac, thereby offering higher drug bioavailability. Remarkably, the rabbit model of FK shows that the topical MN(+) patch medication exerts superior therapeutic effects compared with the conventional eye drop formulation, and also presents comparable therapeutic efficacy with that of the clinical mainstay strategy (i.e., intrastromal injection). Therefore, the MN patch, acting as an ocular drug delivery system with high efficacy and ability of rapid corneal healing, promises a cost‐effective household solution for the treatment of FK, which may also lead to a new approach for treating FK in clinics.
Probing superheavy dark matter with gravitational waves
Authors: Bian Ligong , Liu Xuewen , Xie Ke-Pan
Published: November 2021

Abstract

We study the superheavy dark matter (DM) scenario in an extended B−L model, where one generation of right-handed neutrino νR is the DM candidate. If there is a new lighter sterile neutrino that co-annihilate with the DM candidate, then the annihilation rate is exponentially enhanced, allowing a DM mass much heavier than the Griest-Kamionkowski bound (∼105 GeV). We demonstrate that a DM mass MνR ≳ 1013 GeV can be achieved. Although beyond the scale of any traditional DM searching strategy, this scenario is testable via gravitational waves (GWs) emitted by the cosmic strings from the U(1)B−L breaking. Quantitative calculations show that the DM mass $$ \mathcal{O} $$
O
(109−1013 GeV) can be probed by future GW detectors.
Probing baryogenesis with neutron-antineutron oscillations
Authors: Fridell Kåre , Harz Julia , Hati Chandan
Published: November 2021

Abstract

In the near future, the Deep Underground Neutrino Experiment and the European Spallation Source aim to reach unprecedented sensitivity in the search for neutron-antineutron (n-$$ \overline{n} $$

n
¯

) oscillations, whose observation would directly imply |∆B| = 2 violation and hence might hint towards a close link to the mechanism behind the observed baryon asymmetry of the Universe. In this work, we explore the consequences of such a discovery for baryogenesis first within a model-independent effective field theory approach. We then refine our analysis by including a source of CP violation and different hierarchies between the scales of new physics using a simplified model. We analyse the implication for baryogenesis in different scenarios and confront our results with complementary experimental constraints from dinucleon decay, LHC, and meson oscillations. We find that for a small mass hierarchy between the new degrees of freedom, an observable rate for n-$$ \overline{n} $$

n
¯

oscillation would imply that the washout processes are too strong to generate any sizeable baryon asymmetry, even if the CP violation is maximal. On the other hand, for a large hierarchy between the new degrees of freedom, our analysis shows that successful baryogenesis can occur over a large part of the parameter space, opening the window to be probed by current and future colliders and upcoming n-$$ \overline{n} $$

n
¯

oscillation searches.
Fractional Skyrmion molecules in a ℂPN−1 model
Authors: Akagi Yutaka , Amari Yuki , Gudnason Sven Bjarke , Nitta Muneto , Shnir Yakov
Published: November 2021

Abstract

We study fractional Skyrmions in a ℂP2 baby Skyrme model with a generalization of the easy-plane potential. By numerical methods, we find stable, metastable, and unstable solutions taking the shapes of molecules. Various solutions possess discrete symmetries, and the origin of those symmetries are traced back to congruencies of the fields in homogeneous coordinates on ℂP2.
Black hole induced false vacuum decay from first principles
Authors: Shkerin Andrey , Sibiryakov Sergey
Published: November 2021

Abstract

We provide a method to calculate the rate of false vacuum decay induced by a black hole. The method uses complex tunneling solutions and consistently takes into account the structure of different quantum vacua in the black hole metric via boundary conditions. The latter are connected to the asymptotic behavior of the time-ordered Green’s function in the corresponding vacua. We illustrate the technique on a two-dimensional toy model of a scalar field with inverted Liouville potential in an external background of a dilaton black hole. We analytically derive the exponential suppression of tunneling from the Boulware, Hartle-Hawking and Unruh vacua and show that they are parametrically different. The Unruh vacuum decay rate is exponentially smaller than the decay rate of the Hartle-Hawking state, though both rates become unsuppressed at high enough black hole temperature. We interpret the vanishing suppression of the Unruh vacuum decay at high temperature as an artifact of the two-dimensional model and discuss why this result can be modified in the realistic case of black holes in four dimensions.
Dark matter from a complex scalar singlet: the role of dark CP and other discrete symmetries
Authors: Coito Leonardo , Faubel Carlos , Herrero-García Juan , Santamaria Arcadi
Published: November 2021

Abstract

We study the case of a pseudo-scalar dark matter candidate which emerges from a complex scalar singlet, charged under a global U(1) symmetry, which is broken both explicitly and spontaneously. The pseudo-scalar is naturally stabilized by the presence of a remnant discrete symmetry: dark CP. We study and compare the phenomenology of several simplified models with only one explicit symmetry breaking term. We find that several regions of the parameter space are able to reproduce the observed dark matter abundance while respecting direct detection and invisible Higgs decay limits: in the resonances of the two scalars, featuring the known as forbidden or secluded dark matter, and through non-resonant Higgs-mediated annihilations. In some cases, combining different measurements would allow one to distinguish the breaking pattern of the symmetry. Moreover, this setup admits a light DM candidate at the sub-GeV scale. We also discuss the situation where more than one symmetry breaking term is present. In that case, the dark CP symmetry may be spontaneously broken, thus spoiling the stability of the dark matter candidate. Requiring that this does not happen imposes a constraint on the allowed parameter space. Finally, we consider an effective field theory approach valid in the pseudo-Nambu-Goldstone boson limit and when the U(1) breaking scale is much larger than the electroweak scale.
A holographic superfluid symphony
Authors: Areán Daniel , Baggioli Matteo , Grieninger Sebastian , Landsteiner Karl
Published: November 2021

Abstract

We study the hydrodynamic excitations of backreacted holographic superfluids by computing the full set of quasinormal modes (QNMs) at finite momentum and matching them to the existing hydrodynamic theory of superfluids. Additionally, we analyze the behavior of the low-energy excitations in real frequency and complex momentum, going beyond the standard QNM picture. Finally, we carry out a novel type of study of the model by computing the support of the hydrodynamic modes across the phase diagram. We achieve this by determining the support of the corresponding QNMs on the different operators in the dual theory, both in complex frequency and complex momentum space. From the support, we are able to reconstruct the hydrodynamic dispersion relations using the hydrodynamic constitutive relations. Our analysis rules out a role-reversal phenomenon between first and second sound in this model, contrary to results obtained in a weakly coupled field theory framework.
Correction to: Correlation Structures between Satellite All-Sky Infrared Brightness Temperatures and the Atmospheric State at Storm Scales
Authors: Zhang Yunji , Clothiaux Eugene E. , Stensrud David J.
Published: November 2021

The article “Correlation Structures between Satellite All-Sky Infrared Brightness Temperatures and the Atmospheric State at Storm Scales”, written by Yunji ZHANG, Eugene E. CLOTHIAUX, and David J. STENSRUD was originally published electronically on the publisher’s internet portal on 30 of April 2021 without open access. With the author(s)’ decision to opt for Open Choice, the copyright of the article changed on 26 of October 2021 to © The Author(s), 2021 and the article is forthwith distributed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License, which permits use, sharing, adaptation, distribution and reproduction in any medium or format, as long as you give appropriate credit to the original author(s) and the source, provide a link to the Creative Commons licence, and indicate if changes were made. The images or other third party material in this article are included in the article’s Creative Commons licence, unless indicated otherwise in a credit line to the material. If material is not included in the article’s Creative Commons licence and your intended use is not permitted by statutory regulation or exceeds the permitted use, you will need to obtain permission directly from the copyright holder. To view a copy of this licence, visit http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0.

The original article has been corrected.
Average duration of prior treatment lines predicts clinical benefit to eribulin chemotherapy in patients with metastatic breast cancer
Authors: Coe Faye , Misra Vivek , McCabe Yamini , Adderley Helen , Woodhouse Laura , Ayub Zaheen , Wang Xin , Howell Sacha , Ekholm Maria
Published: November 2021

Purpose

The aim of this study was to identify factors associated with progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) in patients with metastatic breast cancer (MBC) treated with eribulin in a real-world setting, to improve information provision in those considering treatment.

Methods

Patients treated with eribulin for MBC at The Christie NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK, between August 2011 and December 2018 were included (n = 439). Data were collected by retrospective review of medical records and electronic prescribing systems. Factors such as biological subtype, distant recurrence-free interval, previous lines of chemotherapy and the ‘average duration of previous treatment lines’ (ADPT) (calculated as: (date of initiation of eribulin–date of MBC) / the number of previous treatment lines in the metastatic setting) were evaluated for prognostic impact using Cox proportional hazards regression.

Results

In the full cohort, the median PFS and OS were 4.1 months (95% CI 3.7–4.4) and 8.6 months (95% CI 7.4–9.8), respectively. Outcomes were significantly inferior for those with triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) (n = 92); PFSTNBC: 2.4 months (95% CI 2.1–3.0), p =  < 0.001 and OSTNBC: 5.4 months (95% CI 4.6–6.6), p =  < 0.001. ADPT was the only factor other than subtype significantly associated with PFS and OS. Longer ADPT was also significantly associated with PFS and OS in those with TNBC. For example, women in the lowest ADPT tertile (< 5.0 months) achieved a median OS of only 4.3 months, whereas those in the upper ADPT tertile (> 8.7 months) had a median OS of 12.1 months (p = 0.004).

Conclusion

Our results indicate that the ADPT lines is an important factor when predicting the outcome with eribulin chemotherapy in a palliative setting and that quantitative guidance on the likely PFS and OS with treatment can be provided using ADPT. Validation in additional cohorts is warranted.
Contact of the Samoan Plume with the Tonga Subduction from Intermediate and Deep-Focus Earthquakes
Authors: Hrubcová Pavla , Vavryčuk Václav
Published: November 2021

The Tonga subduction zone in the south-west Pacific is the fastest convergent plate boundary in the world with the most active mantle seismicity. This zone shows unique tectonic features including Samoan volcanic lineament of plume-driven origin near the northern rim of the Tonga subducting slab. The proximity of the Samoa hotspot to the slab is enigmatic and invokes debates on interactions between the Samoa plume and the Tonga subduction. Based on long-term observations of intermediate and deep-focus Tonga earthquakes reported in the Global Centroid Moment Tensor (CMT) catalog, we provide novel detailed imaging of this region. Accurate traveltime residua of the P- and S-waves recorded at two nearby seismic stations of the Global Seismographic Network are inverted for the P- and S-wave velocities and their ratio and reveal their pronounced lateral variations. In particular, they differ for the southern and northern parts of the Tonga subduction region. While no distinct anomalies are detected in the southern Tonga segment, striking low-velocity anomalies associated with a high Vp/Vs ratio are observed in the northern Tonga segment close to the Samoa plume. These anomalies spread through the whole upper mantle down to depths of ~ 600 km. Together with the fast extension of the northern back-arc Lau Basin, slab deformation and geochemical enrichment in the northern Tonga region, they trace deep-seated magmatic processes and evidence an interaction of the Tonga subduction with the Samoa plume.
Blossoming Child, Mourning Parent: A Qualitative Study of Trans Children and Their Parents Navigating Transition
Authors: Pullen Sansfaçon Annie , Medico Denise , Gelly Morgane , Kirichenko Valeria , Suerich-Gulick Frank ,   on behalf of the Stories of Gender Affirming Care project
Published: November 2021

An increasing number of jurisdictions now facilitate transitions for trans and non-binary youth (TNBY), allowing them to legally change their name and gender marker and providing medical gender-affirming care to support transition needs. The literature demonstrates the benefits of such measures in reducing adverse mental health outcomes. Strong parental support is also identified as key to TNBY thriving. But studies also show that parents may struggle to accept their child’s identity during transition and beyond, rendering this life stage particularly challenging for both parents and TNBY. This qualitative project traces the experiences of TNBY and their parents as they evolve from the discovery of diverse gender identity to affirmation. Participants were recruited through three Canadian specialty clinics offering gender-affirming care and interviews were conducted separately with 36 dyads of trans youth and one of their parents, for a total of 72 interviews. Data reveal notable differences between the experiences of TNBY and that of their parents. Many TNBY began questioning their gender secretly, waiting to be sure of it before disclosing it to parents. While coming out was often a relief for TNBY, it was experienced differently for their parents, who often struggled to accept their child’s identity even while outwardly showing support. However, we found that TNBY and their parents were able to bridge this gap by engaging in the transition process together. Because TNBY’s experiences of realization and affirmation differ from those of their parents, we reiterate the importance of centering TNBY voices when attempting to understand their experience.
Case report. Kiemcelneoplasie in situ in een monotestis hoeft niet direct behandeld te worden
Authors: Mathijssen Ruud J. G. , Nijs Jelle J. G. , D’Hauwers Kathleen W. M. , de Jongh Rik
Published: November 2021

Samenvatting

Dit case report beschrijft een 32-jarige man met kiemcelneoplasie in situ (GCNIS) na partiële orchidectomie en contralaterale orchidectomie in verband met een gemengde kiemceltumor. De behandeling van GCNIS kan bestaan uit radiotherapie, orchidectomie of surveillance. Bij het kiezen van de therapie is het belangrijk om rekening te houden met een mogelijke kinderwens, de hormonale status, het risico op het ontwikkelen van (recidief) zaadbalkanker en de voor- en nadelen van iedere behandeling. Deze casus laat zien dat surveillance beleid omwille van een actieve kinderwens op korte termijn veilig kan zijn. Retrospectief is bij verdenking op bilaterale zaadbalkanker overleg met een academisch testisexpertisecentrum en cryosemenpreservatie bij een aanwezige kinderwens te adviseren alvorens te starten met behandeling.
On the Interplay of Ownership Patterns, Biodiversity, and Conservation in Past and Present Temperate Forest Landscapes of Europe and North America
Authors: Mölder Andreas , Tiebel Malin , Plieninger Tobias
Published: November 2021

Purpose of Review

Ownership patterns and the associated management characteristics are related to forest structures, biodiversity patterns, and their conservation worldwide. A literature review on this topic is missing so far. We fill this gap with an emphasis on the temperate forests of Europe and North America. Mixed-ownership landscapes are the special focus of the analysis. In a first step, historical effects of ownership patterns on forest structure and biodiversity are elucidated. Second, connections between present-time forest ownership patterns and both forest structural and biodiversity patterns are analyzed. Finally, implications for integrative conservation management are evaluated with a special focus on mixed-ownership forest landscapes.

Recent Findings

Close linkages between ownership type-specific forest management and particular forest structural and biodiversity patterns are identified for past and current forest landscapes. Both in Europe and North America, publicly and privately owned forests show comparable lines of historical development but with a time shift. Forest reserves and ancient woodland with long ecological continuity appear to be mainly connected with public ownership. A high diversity of management approaches and cultural landscape habitats is characteristic of non-industrial small private forests. In mixed-ownership landscapes, a more diverse mosaic of habitats has developed than in mono-ownership landscapes.

We conclude that cross-boundary ecosystem management is crucial for effective conservation in present-day mixed-ownership landscapes. Integrative forest management that considers biodiversity and social-ecological aspects across ownerships is indispensable. We present a framework of implications for conservation management in mixed-ownership forest landscapes that build on each other and may enhance cross-boundary ecosystem management.
Organizational Psychological Capital in Family Firms: the Role of Family Firm Heterogeneity
Authors: Fischer-Kreer Denise , Greven Andrea , Eichwald Isabel Catherine , Bendig David , Brettel Malte
Published: November 2021

Organizational psychological capital—comprising hope, confidence, resilience, and optimism—is a vital resource for family firms in times of stress. Surprisingly, whether and how family firm idiosyncrasies impact organizational psychological capital remains unclear. Considering the theoretical paradigm of socio-emotional wealth, we investigate two important family firm characteristics as antecedents of organizational psychological capital: the family involvement in the top management team and the generation of the family firm. We further propose that these relationships are moderated by a board of directors’ tenure. Based on an empirical analysis of listed U.S. family firms, our results confirm a negative relationship between family membership in the top management team and organizational psychological capital. In addition, we find that descendant family firms exhibit higher levels of organizational psychological capital than founder family firms. The results also confirm the moderating role of board tenure. This study works toward a more holistic view of family firm heterogeneity and specifically how different types of family involvement shape a firm’s positive strategic resources.
Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) Among Prolific Young Robbery Offenders in London: Targeting Treatment for Desistance?
Authors: Hilder Lorraine , Strang Heather , Kumar Sumit
Published: November 2021

Research Question

How prevalent are various types of adverse childhood experiences among prolific young robbery offenders in London, with what implications for treatment and desistance of these people from serious offending?

Data

Of the 1249 suspects under 26 years of age who were arrested for robberies in London in 2019, 81 (6.5%) of them had been arrested for four or more robberies, totalling 24% of all robbery arrests of that age group (465 out of 1936). Of those 81 arrestees, 65 of them (80%) percent had used a knife or threatened with a knife to commit their crime. In total, the 81 had criminal histories as suspects in 939 offences covering 34 offence types, most commonly theft from person (201), possession of drugs (164) and violence with injury (89).

Methods

This study gathered extensive life history data for the 81, with a special emphasis on adverse childhood experiences (ACE) including criminal victimisation by parents or other adults. The analysis compares the prevalence of ACE in the most prolific young robbery suspects to prevalence in general population samples.

Findings

The 81 prolific robbery offenders had extremely high prevalence of ACEs: 80% had previously been victims of crime themselves (highest offence categories assault with bodily harm, robbery and domestic violence). Reported to police as missing is 63%, school exclusions 49%, incarceration of a family member 35% and known to social services 91%. The prevalence of 4 or more ACEs among the 81 prolific robbery offenders is two to five times higher than it is in other estimates for London (random sample) or England (children in need).

Conclusions

A substantial proportion of all London arrests for robbery identify young people with disproportionately high levels of adverse childhood experiences. Most of the ACEs are to some extent treatable by cognitive behavioural therapies and related treatments aimed at post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). One possible pathway to promote desistance from high-harm crime in this population may be the development and testing of a police role in helping to ensure that these few most chronic, high-harm arrestees received effective treatment for the consequences of ACEs.
Digitalisation anxiety: development and validation of a new scale
Authors: Pfaffinger Katharina F. , Reif Julia A. M. , Huber Andreas K. , Eger Vera M. , Dengler Melina K. , Czakert Jan Philipp , Spieß Erika , Berger Rita
Published: November 2021

The increasing spread of digital technologies and respective consequences for the way we live, work, and communicate can evoke feelings of tension and discomfort. This so-called digitalisation anxiety is related to existing and future technologies, includes the process of digitalisation in everyday life, and refers to multiple levels (the individual, organisations, and society). Existing scales measuring technology-related fears due not adequately reflect these features. Therefore, we developed the German version of the Digitalisation Anxiety Scale (DAS). Having generated items based on a qualitative interview study (Study 1, n = 26), we demonstrated the DAS’s factor structure, internal consistency and construct validity in Study 2a (n = 109) and test-retest reliability in Study 2b (n = 30). In Study 3 (n = 223), the scale’s structure was confirmed and correlates of digitalisation anxiety were examined. The final version of the DAS consists of 35 items with a four-factor structure (societal triggers for digitalisation anxiety, triggers related to interaction and leadership, triggers within oneself and triggers resulting from the digitalisation implementation process). Digitalisation Anxiety had negative relationships with well-being and performance. The scale allows practitioners and researchers to measure and benchmark individuals’ levels of digitalisation anxiety, and to track changes over time. The scale can inform interventions aiming at reducing digitalisation anxiety and stress resulting from digitalisation.
Impact of COVID-19 on Volume of Infection Prevention and Control Calls at a Tertiary-Care Center in Iowa, 2018–2020
Authors: Alsuhaibani Mohammed , Kobayashi Takaaki , Holley Stephanie , Dains Angie , Abosi Oluchi , Jenn Kyle , Meacham Holly , Sheeler Lorinda , Etienne William , Trannel Alexandra , Kukla Mary , Marra Alexandre , Wellington Melanie , Diekema Daniel , Salinas Jorge
Published: November 2021

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has affected healthcare systems worldwide, but the impact on infection prevention and control (IPC) programs has not been fully evaluated. We assessed the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on IPC consultation requests. Methods: The University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics comprises an 811-bed hospital that admits >36,000 patients yearly and >200 outpatient clinics. Questions about IPC can be addressed to the Program of Hospital Epidemiology via e-mail, in person, or through our phone line. We routinely record date and time, call source, reason for the call, and estimated time to resolve questions for all phone line requests. We defined calls during 2018–2019 as the pre–COVID-19 period and calls from January to December 2020 as the COVID-19 period. Results: In total, 6,564 calls were recorded from 2018 to 2020. In the pre–COVID-19 period (2018–2019), we received a median of 71 calls per month (range, 50–119). The most frequent call sources were inpatient units (n = 902; 50%), department of public health (n = 357; 20%), laboratory (n = 171; 9%), and outpatient clinics (n = 120; 7%) (Figure 1). The most common call topics were isolation and precautions (n = 606; 42%), outside institutions requests (n = 324; 22%), environmental and construction (n = 148; 10%), and infection exposures (n = 149; 10%). The most frequent infection-related calls were about tuberculosis (17%), gram-negative organisms (14%), and influenza (9%). During the COVID-19 period, the median monthly call volume increased 500% to 368 per month (range, 149–829). Most (83%) were COVID-19 related. The median monthly number of COVID-19 calls was 302 (range, 45–674). The median monthly number of non–COVID-19 calls decreased to 56 (range, 36–155). The most frequent call sources were inpatient units (57%), outpatient clinics (16%), and the department of public health (5%). Most calls concerned isolation and precautions (50%) and COVID-19 testing (20%). The mean time required to respond to each question was 10 minutes (range, 2–720). The biggest surges in calls during the COVID-19 period were at the beginning of the pandemic (March 2020) and during the hospital peak COVID-19 census (November 2020). Conclusions: In addition to supporting a proactive COVID-19 response, our IPC program experienced a 500% increase in consultation requests. Planning for future bioemergencies should include creative strategies to provide additional resources to increase response capacity within IPC programs.

Funding: No

Disclosures: None