bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Public acceptability of containment measures during the COVID-19 pandemic in Italy: how institutional confidence and specific political support matter
Authors: Guglielmi Simona , Dotti Sani Giulia M. , Molteni Francesco , Biolcati Ferruccio , Chiesi Antonio M. , Ladini Riccardo , Maraffi Marco , Pedrazzani Andrea , Vezzoni Cristiano
Published: October 2020

Purpose

This article contributes to a better theoretical and empiric understanding of mixed results in the literature investigating the relationship between institutional confidence and adherence to recommended measures during a pandemic.

Design/methodology/approach

The article relies on structural equation models (SEMs) based on data from ResPOnsE COVID-19, a rolling cross-section (RCS) survey carried out in Italy from April to June 2020.

Findings

The authors’ findings show the existence of multiple pathways of confidence at the national and local level. Confidence in the institutions is positively associated with support for the performance of the Prime Minister and that of the regional institutions in the North West, which in turn, raises the likelihood of following the restrictive measures. However, in the same regions, a good appraisal of the regional system's performance also had a direct positive effect on the perception of being safe from the virus, decreasing adherence to the restrictive measures. Finally, the direct effect of confidence in the institutions on compliance is negative.

Social implications

The result enlightens the crucial role both of national and local institutions in promoting or inhibiting adherence to restrictive measures during a pandemic and suggests that “one size fits all” measures for increasing overall institutional confidence might not be sufficient to reach the desired goal of achieving compliance in pandemic times.

Originality/value

The authors theorize and test three cognitive mechanisms – (1) the “cascade of confidence”; (2) the “paradox of support” and (3) the “paradox of confidence” – to account for both the positive and negative links between measures of political support and public acceptability of COVID-19 containment measures.
Defining the gig economy: platform capitalism and the reinvention of precarious work
Authors: Montgomery Tom , Baglioni Simone
Published: October 2020

Purpose

This article seeks to answer the question: how should we conceptualise the “gig economy”? In doing so the authors shall explore if gig economy work should be understood as a novel concept that stands alone, a concept that is a subtype, or whether it may in fact be conceptually redundant.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors conduct a thematic analysis of interview data drawn from 27 interviews with policymakers, trade union officials, key figures within labour organisations and gig economy workers.

Findings

The authors reveal how, from the perspective of key stakeholders, the concept of the gig economy exhibits a lack of “differentiation” from the long-established concept of precarious work of which it is best understood as a subtype.

Research limitations/implications

The empirical findings from the authors’ study should be regarded as limited in terms of being situated in the specific employment context of the UK. Nevertheless, the implications of the study have a broader reach. The authors seek to provoke debate and discussion among scholars across disciplines and contexts working in the areas of precarious work and the gig economy. The authors’ analysis will be of interest to scholars who are concerned with how they conceptualise “new” forms of work.

Originality/value

The analysis offers a novel intervention by revealing how key stakeholders perceive the gig economy through a prism of continuity rather than change and connect it with broader processes of precarity.
Students’ readiness for blended learning in a leading Malaysian private higher education institution
Authors: Adams Donnie , Tan Mabel Hwee Joo , Sumintono Bambang
Published: October 2020

Purpose

Teaching and learning are being transformed by digital technology, where the present generation of students, termed millennials, are more adept with the increasingly digitalised world we live in. Following this, lecturers and institutions are adapting and adopting a blended learning model across disciplines, which now commands an entire domain of research and application. However, questions remain about how ready students are for a blended learning model of instruction. The purpose of this study is to investigate students’ readiness for blended learning in a leading Malaysian private higher education institution.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used a non-experimental quantitative research design. Data were gathered from a sample of 274 pre-university and undergraduate students using the blended learning readiness engagement questionnaire. Data was analysed using WINSTEPS Rasch model measurement software to determine the validity and reliability of the instrument. Descriptive statistics (mean and standard deviation) scores, (logit) value of the item and (logit) value of a person was used to examine students’ readiness for a blended learning model of instruction and specifically assess their readiness based on gender, age, ethnicity and field of study.

Findings

Findings indicate that students were ready for blended learning. Further analysis indicated there were differences in students’ readiness for blended learning based on gender, age, ethnicity and field of study.

Originality/value

This study provides insight into students’ readiness towards blended learning in a leading Malaysian private higher education institution, discusses implications for blended learning practices and offers recommendations for future research.
Modelling the information seeking and searching behaviour of users with impairments: are existing models applicable?
Authors: Berget Gerd , MacFarlane Andrew , Pharo Nils
Published: October 2020

Purpose

A substantial number of models have been developed over the years, with the purpose of describing the information seeking and searching of people in various user groups and contexts. Several models have been frequently applied in user studies, but are rarely included in research on participants with impairments. Models are purposeful when developing theories. Consequently, it might be valuable to apply models when studying this user group, as well. The purpose of this study was to explore whether existing models are applicable in describing the online information seeking and searching of users with impairments, with an overall aim to increase the use of models in studies involving impairments.

Design/methodology/approach

Six models were selected according to the following criteria: the model should address information seeking or searching, include the interaction between users and systems whilst incorporating assistive technology. Two user groups were selected from each of the categories: cognitive, sensory and motor impairments, namely dyslexia, autism, blindness, deafness, paralysation and Parkinson's. The models were then analysed based on known barriers reported for these cohorts.

Findings

All the selected models had potential to be applied in user studies involving impairments. While three of the models had the highest potential to be used in the current form, the other three models were applicable either through minor revisions or by combining models.

Originality/value

This study contributes with a new perspective on the use of models in information seeking and searching research on users with impairments.
Are non-blood related “family” members treated differently? Determinants of bifurcation bias among family members in the family firm
Authors: Kim Taewoo , Marler Laura
Published: October 2020

Purpose

Possible asymmetric treatment among family members has long been neglected in the field of family firm research. To fill this gap, the purpose of this study is to shed light on the heterogeneity of treatment of family members in family firms by proposing factors that influence the likelihood of bifurcation bias among “family” members.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing upon social identity theory and the concept of bifurcation bias, the authors theorize that family members working in family firms are not a homogenous entity, but rather a heterogeneous entity contingent on their status and/or position in the family. To provide a comprehensive understanding of heterogeneous treatment among family members, both individual factors and societal factors should be considered.

Findings

Blood relatedness of family members is suggested as an important determinant of the likelihood of bifurcation bias among family members. It is also proposed that the impact of blood relatedness is likely influenced by both individual factors (familial proximity and familial tenure) and a societal factor (collectivism).

Originality/value

Theorizing takes a step forward to advance the understanding of interpersonal dynamics in family firms. In particular, this article expands the research boundaries of family business research by taking into account that not all “family” members are treated preferentially. Moreover, this article deepens our understanding of the nature and status of non-blood related family members by unveiling the influence of both individual and societal factors. This article also provides a theoretical foundation for human resource management (HRM) research in family businesses by addressing bifurcation bias among family members.
Tenets of self-determination theory as a mechanism behind challenge demands: a within-person study
Authors: Giebe Chris , Rigotti Thomas
Published: October 2020

Purpose

This study investigated a mechanism by which challenge stressors may affect employee well-being outcomes. This study tested a within-person longitudinal model in which the effects of challenge demands relate to basic psychological need satisfaction/thwarting and worker well-being outcomes. In particular, basic psychological need satisfaction and thwarting were hypothesized to mediate challenge demands and outcomes at the intraindividual level.

Design/methodology/approach

Data from 84 employees from a weekly survey across four weeks (308 observations) were used in Bayesian multilevel path analyses to test hypotheses.

Findings

Although significant indirect effects showed that basic psychological needs mediate between demands and worker outcomes, only a few specific indirect effects (e.g. the path from time pressure via thwarting the need for autonomy to emotional exhaustion) operated as hypothesized. Interestingly, in this study, time pressure was only mediated via thwarting the need for autonomy when considering undesirable worker outcomes (i.e. increased emotional exhaustion, decreased job satisfaction). Job complexity, however, led to decreased emotional exhaustion via the need for competence satisfaction. Implications for need satisfaction and thwarting as mechanisms in the challenge–hindrance framework are discussed.

Originality/value

This study (1) extends the challenge–hindrance framework to include basic psychological needs as a mechanism, (2) expands basic psychological needs to include need thwarting and (3) may enhance our understanding of stressor categories.
Examining the perceived value of extracurricular enterprise activities in relation to entrepreneurial learning processes
Authors: Preedy Sarah , Jones Paul , Maas Gideon , Duckett Hilary
Published: October 2020

Purpose

This study contributes towards increased understanding of the perceived value of extracurricular enterprise activities from an entrepreneurial learning perspective. Past decades have witnessed a global increase in the provision of enterprise and entrepreneurship education alongside a growing suite of extracurricular enterprise activities. However, there is a paucity of research examining how entrepreneurial learning might be understood in the context of these activities.

Design/methodology/approach

The study draws on an empirical study of student and educator participants across 24 United Kingdom (UK) universities using semi-structured surveys and in-depth interviews. Three main learning theories drawn from the entrepreneurial learning literature: experiential, social and self-directed learning provided a conceptual framework to frame the research phenomenon.

Findings

Findings posit that extracurricular enterprise activities provide perceived value in the experiential and social learning opportunities afforded for students. However, these activities are restricted in enabling the experiential learning cycle to be completed due to limited reflection opportunities. Positioning these extracurricular activities outside the main curriculum also empowers participants to self-direct aspects of their learning and develop their autonomous learning capabilities.

Originality/value

The existing literature focusses upon the entrepreneurial learning processes of established entrepreneurs rather than latent and nascent entrepreneurs within a higher education (HE) setting. The limited literature examining HE entrepreneurial learning does so by concentrating upon entrepreneurial learning resulting from in-curricular activities. This study offers novel insights into students’ entrepreneurial learning processes, highlighting the importance of experiential, social and self-directed learning opportunities to the entrepreneurial learning process and the perceived value of extracurricular activities as a platform for these types of learning.
Locked-in resources, coopetitive relationship stability and innovation
Authors: Elias Rida , Farah Bassam
Published: October 2020

Purpose

This conceptual paper uses the resource-based theory (RBT) of the firm to argue that for competitors to improve their innovation through a cooperative relationship – coopetitive relationship – they need to work on building a stable relationship with each other by investing a special type of resources, namely locked-in resources.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors draw on RBT criteria to argue that when the antecedent – the locked-in resources – and the mediator – the relationship stability – are valuable, rare, inimitable and organized (VRIO), they will help the parties involved achieve sustained competitive advantage from the coopetitive relationship.

Findings

This paper argues that locked-in resources lead to higher coopetitive relationship stability by reducing the impact of opportunistic behavior from any of the partners. More stable relationship leads to more innovations especially radical innovations. In addition, the nature of the industry plays a moderating role. The industry's competitive intensity affects the relationship between locked-in resources and relationship stability. The industry's age affects the relationship between stability and innovation quantity and type.

Research limitations/implications

This conceptual paper anchors its arguments within the RBT related to the firm's strategic resources (VRIO) characteristics and applies the same arguments (VRIO) beyond the firm level to the coopetitive relationship level. The model invites researchers and practitioners to consider two new constructs namely locked-in resources and coopetitive relationship stability in order to build successful coopetitive relationships.

Practical implications

This paper contributes considerably and in a practical manner to managers as it draws their attention to the importance of investing a special type of resources, namely locked-in resources and ensuring the relationship stability with their coopetitors to achieve the desired outcome. It also draws the managers' attention to the impact industry's competitive intensity and industry's age have on the quality of the relationship and on the innovation outcomes.

Originality/value

A distinct contribution of this conceptual paper is the introduction of two new constructs: locked-in resources and coopetitive relationship stability. Locked-in resources are valuable within the coopetitive relationship and they improve the second construct or relationship stability. Relationship stability is different from relationship strength as it leads to more trust between partners over longer periods of time.
Silently withdrawn or retracted preprints related to Covid-19 are a scholarly threat and a potential public health risk: theoretical arguments and suggested recommendations
Authors: Teixeira da Silva Jaime A.
Published: October 2020

Purpose

Thousands of preprints related to Covid-19 have effused into the academic literature. Even though these are not peer-reviewed documents and have not been vetted by medical or other experts, several have been cited, while others have been widely promoted by the media. While many preprints eventually find their way into the published literature, usually through integrated publishing streams, there is a small body of preprints that have been opaquely withdrawn/retracted, without suitable reasons, leaving only a vestigial or skeletal record online. Others have, quite literally, vanished. This paper aims to examine some of those cases.

Design/methodology/approach

For peer-reviewed literature, a retracted academic paper is usually water-marked with “RETRACTED” across each page of the document, as recommended by ethical bodies such as the Committee on Publication Ethics, which represents thousands of journals and publishers. Curiously, even though pro-preprint groups claim that preprints are an integral part of the publication process and a scholarly instrument, there are no strict, detailed or established ethical guidelines for preprints on most preprint servers. This paper identifies select withdrawn/retracted preprints and emphasizes that the opaque removal of preprints from the scholarly record may constitute unscholarly, possibly even predatory or unethical, behavior.

Findings

Strict ethical guidelines are urgently needed for preprints, and preprint authors, in the case of misconduct, should face the same procedure and consequences as standard peer-reviewed academic literature.

Originality/value

Journals and publishers that have silently retracted or withdrawn preprints should reinstate them, as for regular retracted literature, except for highly exceptional cases.
A post-occupancy evaluation of students' halls of residence in Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria
Authors: Adegoke Ayodele Samuel , Ajayi Cyril Ayodele , Oladokun Timothy Tunde , Ayodele Timothy Oluwafemi
Published: October 2020

Purpose

Students are the hub of activities in an academic environment, and their satisfaction with the performance of educational facilities cannot be overemphasised. Therefore, this study evaluated the post-occupation of students' halls of residence in Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, Nigeria with a view to enhancing effective management of educational facilities.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from 245 students who were selected using simple random sampling technique. The study adopted descriptive statistical tools such as mean, standard deviation and Relative Importance Index (RII); the inferential statistical tools adopted were independent-samples t-test and Kendall Tau's correlation.

Findings

The results revealed that both genders were fairly satisfied with physical attributes, indoor environmental quality (IEQ) and social factors; while the female students were also fairly satisfied with the supporting service, the male students were fairly dissatisfied. Also, supporting services and IEQ influenced the levels of satisfaction of both genders.

Practical implications

This study provides information which can help the management of the University and other comparative educational institutions in the proper management of students' halls of residence.

Originality/value

This study has provided insight into the satisfaction of student occupants with halls of residence based on gender differentiation.
Attitudes and intentions toward internet banking in an under developed financial sector
Authors: Safari Kulondwa , Bisimwa Aganze , Buzera Armel Mugisho
Published: October 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate customers’ attitudes and intentions toward internet banking in an underdeveloped banking sector.

Design/methodology/approach

The study was carried out in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. A sample of 215 respondents comprised of 112 non-users and 103 users of internet banking was selected in the city of Bukavu following a convenience sampling method and structural equation modeling was applied to test the research hypotheses.

Findings

The results show that for users of internet banking their attitudes are determined by their perceived usefulness while for non-users they are determined by their perceived usefulness and internet trust. For users of internet banking, their intentions to continue using internet banking are determined by attitudes and perceived usefulness; while for internet banking non-users, their intention to use internet banking is determined by their attitudes, their perceived web security and perceived usefulness.

Originality/value

Few research on internet banking have been done in central and sub-Saharan Africa. The present study gives new insights to assist financial institutions and researchers in understanding intentions and attitudes toward internet banking in an underdeveloped financial sector.
Exploring the role of family ownership in internationalization: empirical investigation of Indian firms
Authors: R.L. Manogna , Mishra Aswini Kumar
Published: October 2020

Purpose

Internationalization is an important strategy for the long-term survivability of the firms and is often influenced by the ownership groups along with the family involvement in the management decisions. The purpose of this study is to investigate empirically the outward propensities of various ownership groups such as foreign institutional investors, domestic mutual funds and lending institutions.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper analyzes the moderating effects of the family’s influence on the relationship between various ownership categories and internationalization, which is measured in terms of foreign investments and export intensity. An analysis of listed non-financial Indian firms recorded during the years 2005–2019, constituting a panel of 43,928 firm-year observations was conducted by using the tobit and probit panel regression models.

Findings

The results demonstrate that internationalization of the firm is positively impacted by the foreign institutional investors and lending institutions. However, when the family ownership is moderated across the ownership categories, it can be seen that it negatively impacts the lending institutions and positively impacts the foreign institutional investors. In the case of mutual funds, no impact of family ownership in the firm’s foreign investment decisions can be seen.

Originality/value

As there are limited studies about family ownership influence on the firm’s internationalization decision in the context of India, this paper takes an inclusive approach to the changing nature of the influence of ownership on the international expansion process.
Susceptibility of Pseudomonas aeruginosa veterinary isolates to Pbunavirus PB1‐like phages
Authors: Fujiki Jumpei , Furusawa Takaaki , Munby Montgomery , Kawaguchi Chika , Matsuda Yumie , Shiokura Yusei , Nakamura Keisuke , Nakamura Tomohiro , Sasaki Michihito , Usui Masaru , Iwasaki Tomohito , Gondaira Satoshi , Higuchi Hidetoshi , Sawa Hirofumi , Tamura Yutaka , Iwano Hidetomo
Published: October 2020

In recent years, antimicrobial‐resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains have increased in the veterinary field. Therefore, phage therapy has received significant attention as an approach for overcoming antimicrobial resistance. In this context, we isolated and characterized four Pseudomonas bacteriophages. Phylogenetic analysis showed that the isolated phages are novel Myoviridae Pbunavirus PB1‐like phages with ØR12 belonging to a different clade compared with the other three. These phages had distinct lytic activity against 22 P. aeruginosa veterinary isolates. The phage cocktail composed from the PB1‐like phages clearly inhibited the occurrence of the phage‐resistant variant, suggesting that these phages could be useful in phage therapy.
Biofilm formation onto starch fibres by Bacillus subtilis governs its successful adaptation to chickpea milk
Authors: Rajasekharan Satish Kumar , Paz‐Aviram Tali , Galili Shmuel , Berkovich Zipi , Reifen Ram , Shemesh Moshe
Published: October 2020

Beneficial biofilms may confer effective adaptation to food matrices that assist bacteria in enduring hostile environmental conditions. The matrices, for instance, dietary fibres of various food products, might serve as a natural scaffold for bacterial cells to adhere and grow as biofilms. Here, we report on a unique interaction of Bacillus subtilis cells with the resistant starch fibresof chickpea milk (CPM), herein CPM fibres, along with the production of a reddish‐pink pigment. Genetic analysis identified the pigment as pulcherrimin, and also revealed the involvement of Spo0A/SinI pathway in modulating the observed phenotypes. Besides, through successful colonization of the CPM fibres, the wild‐type cells of B. subtilis displayed enhanced survivability and resilience to environmental stress, such as heat and in vitro gastrointestinal treatments. In total, we infer that the biofilm formation on CPM fibres is an adaptation response of B. subtilis for strategic survival.
Simulated future conditions of ocean warming and acidification disrupt the microbiome of the calcifying foraminifera Marginopora vertebralis across life stages
Authors: Botté E. S. , Luter H. M. , Marangon E. , Patel F. , Uthicke S. , Webster N. S.
Published: October 2020

Foraminifera host diverse microbial communities that can shift in response to changing environmental conditions. To characterize climate change impacts on the foraminifera microbiome across life stages, we exposed adult Marginopora vertebralis (Large Benthic Foraminifera) to pCO2 and temperature scenarios representing present‐day, 2050 and 2100 levels and raised juveniles under present‐day and 2050 conditions. While treatment condition had no significant effect on the seawater microbial communities, exposure to future scenarios significantly altered both adult and juvenile microbiomes. In adults, divergence between present‐day and 2050 or 2100 conditions was primarily driven by a reduced relative abundance of Oxyphotobacteria under elevated temperature and pCO2. In juveniles, the microbial shift predominantly resulted from changes in the proportion of Proteobacteria. Indicator species analysis identified numerous treatment‐specific indicator taxa, most of which were indicative of present‐day conditions. Oxyphotobacteria, previously reported as putative symbionts of foraminifera, were indicative of present‐day and 2050 conditions in adults, but of present‐day conditions only in juveniles. Overall, we show that the sensitivity of the M. vertebralis microbiome to climate change scenarios extends to both life stages and primarily correlates with declines in Oxyphotobacteria and shifts in Proteobacteria under elevated temperature and pCO2.
Tumor invasion in the central airway is a risk factor for early‐onset checkpoint inhibitor pneumonitis in patients with non‐small cell lung cancer
Authors: Moda Mitsuhiro , Saito Haruhiro , Kato Terufumi , Usui Ryo , Kondo Tetsuro , Nakahara Yoshiro , Murakami Shuji , Yamamoto Kouji , Yamada Kouzo
Published: October 2020

Background

Anti‐programmed death‐1 (PD‐1) immunotherapy can cause immune‐related pneumonitis, also known as checkpoint inhibitor pneumonitis (CIP). CIP that develops early after the initiation of anti‐PD‐1 immunotherapy is important because it is more severe than CIP that develops later. However, only a few studies have examined the risk factors for early‐onset CIP. Previous studies have reported several risk factors for CIP, including imaging findings of airway obstruction adjacent to lung tumors. However, the utility of this factor is debatable. Therefore, we investigated potential risk factors for early‐onset CIP, including tumor invasion in the central airway (TICA), in patients with non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) receiving anti‐PD‐1 therapy.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed the medical records and chest computed tomography scans of patients with NSCLC treated with anti‐PD‐1 antibodies at the Kanagawa Cancer Center in Japan between 1 January 2016, and 30 June 2018. The clinical characteristics and imaging findings, including TICA, were compared between patients with and without early‐onset CIP.

Results

Data from 181 eligible patients (114 receiving nivolumab and 67 receiving pembrolizumab) were analyzed. Early‐onset CIP occurred in 13 of 79 patients (16.5%) with TICA and 2 of 102 patients (2.0%) without TICA. In multivariate analysis, the odds ratio of early‐onset CIP for patients with TICA was 8.2 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.98–34.0, P = 0.0037).

Conclusions

TICA was strongly associated with early‐onset CIP in patients with NSCLC. Clinicians should carefully observe patients with TICA, especially within three months of anti‐PD‐1 antibody administration because of high CIP risk.

Key points

Significant study findings

Tumor invasion in the central airway (TICA) was a predictor of early‐onset checkpoint inhibitor pneumonitis (CIP)

TICA had good interobserver variability, indicating its utility in clinical practice

Patients with TICA might have a higher immune status than patients without

What this study adds

This is the first study focusing on risk factors for CIP limited to early‐onset CIP.
Effect of forest stand type on host plant quality and direct and indirect effects on pine sawfly performance
Authors: Bellone Davide , Björkman Christer , Schmidt Axel , Gershenzon Jonathan , Klapwijk Maartje J.
Published: October 2020

Observed lower levels of herbivory in mixed compared with monoculture stands have been hypothesized to depend on top‐down forces, through higher predation pressure by natural enemies or through bottom‐up mechanisms through plant quality effects on herbivore performance.

In this study, we compared the performance measured as host plant induced mortality, cocoon weight, and predation mortality of the European pine sawfly Neodiprion sertifer (Geoffroy) (Hymenoptera, Diprionidae) in mixed and monoculture forest stands.

We did not observe a difference in host plant induced mortality, cocoon weight, or predation mortality between mixed and monoculture forest stands. We did find an effect of local conditions around each experimental tree on pine sawfly performance. For example, the nitrogen content of pine needles is negatively affected by the proportion of pine around the experimental tree, which in turn increases the survival of sawfly larvae.

The results suggest that local conditions around individual trees are more important for the performance of the European pine sawfly than stand type, i.e. mixed or monoculture plant stands.

We conclude that the ongoing trend for diversification within commercial forestry calls for more research where the effects of both bottom‐up and top‐down effects are studied at several spatial scales.
Who are the optimal candidates for partial breast irradiation?
Authors: Joo Ji Hyeon , Ki Yongkan , Jeon Hosang , Kim Dong Woon , Jung Jinhong , Kim Su Ssan
Published: October 2020

At the 2017 St. Gallen International Expert Consensus Conference on the Primary Therapy for Early Breast Cancer, the consensus panel recognized “partial breast irradiation as an option for women meeting the low‐risk criteria put forward by the American Society for Radiation Oncology/European Society for Radiotherapy and Oncology (ASTRO/ESTRO) guideline,” although acknowledging that there was less evidence for this approach. Partial breast irradiation is defined as irradiation localized to the surgical resection cavity only as opposed to the entire breast. Accelerated partial breast irradiation (APBI) involves intensive treatment in a short time period. The methods vary, and three available APBI options are brachytherapy, external beam and intra‐operative irradiation. The long‐term follow‐up results from two large‐scale, well‐designed phase III randomized clinical trials have been released. However, further discussion of the optimal treatment candidates and delivery method is needed before the clinical application of APBI as a mainstream breast conservation treatment.
Postoperative radiotherapy improves overall survival in patients with primary squamous cell carcinoma of the breast
Authors: Wang Xuanyi , Zhang Li , Luo Jurui , Jin Kairui , Yang Zhaozhi , Meng Jin , Zhang Xiaomeng , Zhang Zhen , Shao Zhimin , Guo Xiaomao , Chen Xingxing , Yu Xiaoli
Published: October 2020

Background

Primary squamous cell carcinoma of the breast (PSCCB) is a rare clinical classification of breast tumors. Little is known about its clinicopathological features, prognosis and potential therapeutic strategies. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effect of postoperative radiotherapy (PORT) on patients with squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the breast.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed patients diagnosed with PSCCB in our center. All pathological slides were reviewed by an experienced pathologist to confirm the diagnosis. Furthermore, we searched the public database for patients with SCC of the breast. Then, we analyzed the clinicopathological features, treatment methods and patient outcomes.

Results

We identified 14 patients with primary SCC of the breast in our center. Additionally, 739 patients with SCC of the breast from the Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results (SEER) database were diagnosed between 1975 and 2016. Only 453 patients who underwent surgery were included in this study. Patients from the SEER database had a more advanced tumor node metastasis (TNM) stage than patients from our center. The median overall survival (OS) of all patients was 104 months (95% confidence interval [CI], 87.2–120.8 months), and the 5‐year OS was 60.8% (95% CI, 56.1%–65.5%). Most of the patients (58%) tested negative for hormonal receptor expression. Multivariate analysis showed that PORT was an independent prognostic factor for OS.

Conclusion

The results of our study demonstrate that SCC of the breast presents aggressive behavior with unique clinical characteristics. PORT improved OS significantly in patients with SCC of the breast. Longer‐term studies are needed to confirm our findings.
Single‐cell molecular profiling provides a high‐resolution map of basophil and mast cell development
Authors: Hamey Fiona K. , Lau Winnie W.Y. , Kucinski Iwo , Wang Xiaonan , Diamanti Evangelia , Wilson Nicola K. , Göttgens Berthold , Dahlin Joakim S.
Published: October 2020

Background

Basophils and mast cells contribute to the development of allergic reactions. Whereas these mature effector cells are extensively studied, the differentiation trajectories from hematopoietic progenitors to basophils and mast cells are largely uncharted at the single‐cell level.

Methods

We performed multicolor flow cytometry, high‐coverage single‐cell RNA sequencing analyses, and cell fate assays to chart basophil and mast cell differentiation at single‐cell resolution in mouse.

Results

Analysis of flow cytometry data reconstructed a detailed map of basophil and mast cell differentiation, including a bifurcation of progenitors into two specific trajectories. Molecular profiling and pseudotime ordering of the single cells revealed gene expression changes during differentiation. Cell fate assays showed that multicolor flow cytometry and transcriptional profiling successfully predict the bipotent phenotype of a previously uncharacterized population of peritoneal basophil‐mast cell progenitors.

Conclusions

A combination of molecular and functional profiling of bone marrow and peritoneal cells provided a detailed road map of basophil and mast cell development. An interactive web resource was created to enable the wider research community to explore the expression dynamics for any gene of interest.
Systemic allergic reactions induced by labile plant‐food allergens: Seeking potential cofactors. A multicenter study
Authors: Asero Riccardo , Ariano Renato , Aruanno Arianna , Barzaghi Claudio , Borrelli Paolo , Busa Moira , Celi Giorgio , Cinquini Massimo , Cortellini Gabriele , D’Auria Francesca , De Carli Marco , Di Paolo Camilla , Garzi Giulia , Lodi Rizzini Fabio , Magnani Monica , Manzotti Giuseppina , Marra Alessandro , Miceli Sopo Stefano , Murzilli Francesco , Nucera Eleonora , Pinter Elena , Pravettoni Valerio , Rivolta Federica , Rizzi Angela , Saporiti Nicoletta , Scala Enrico , Villalta Danilo , Yacoub Mona‐Rita , Zisa Giuliana
Published: October 2020

Background

Heat‐and‐pepsin‐sensitive plant food allergens (PR‐10 and profilin) sometimes cause systemic reaction.

Objective

To detect the risk factors for systemic reactions induced by labile food allergens.

Methods

A retrospective multicenter study was performed on patients with a documented history of systemic allergic reaction to labile plant food allergens and on age‐matched controls with a history of oral allergy syndrome (OAS) induced by the same foods. Offending foods, their amount, and state (solid or liquid), and potential cofactors (nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs, protonic pump inhibitors, exercise, alcohol, and fasting) were considered.

Results

We studied 89 patients and 81 controls. Sensitization to PR‐10 or profilin, IgE to Bet v 1 and/or Bet v 2, and foods causing OAS were similar in the two groups. Twenty patients experienced >1 systemic allergic reaction. Tree nuts, Rosaceae, Apiaceae, and soymilk were the main offending foods. Seventeen (19%) patients were taking a PPI when the systemic reaction occurred (vs 5% in controls; P < .025). The ingestion of the offending food in liquid form (soymilk) was frequent among patients (15%) but unusual among controls (2%; P < .025). Soy milk‐induced systemic reactions were independent of PPI treatment. Fasting and excess of allergen, but not NSAID and exercise, were other relevant cofactors for systemic reactions. Systemic reactions occurred without any identifiable cofactor in 39 (44%) cases.

Conclusion

PR‐10‐ and profilin‐induced systemic reactions are facilitated by PPI, ingestion of large amounts of unprocessed foods, and fasting. Soybean beverages represent a risk for PR‐10 hypersensitive patients and should be avoided.
Exploring women’s attitudes, knowledge, and intentions to use oocyte freezing for non‐medical reasons: A systematic review
Authors: Platts Sophie , Trigg Bethan , Bracewell‐Milnes Timothy , Jones Benjamin P. , Saso Srdjan , Parikh Jaya , Nicopoullos James , Almeida Paula , Norman‐Taylor Julian , Nikolaou Dimitrios , Johnson Mark , Thum Meen‐Yau
Published: October 2020

Introduction

Women are postponing childbearing and preventing age‐related fertility decline with oocyte freezing for non‐medical reasons (OFNMR). The objective of this systematic evaluation was to gain an understanding of women's attitudes and knowledge of, and intentions to use OFNMR among users of OFNMR and the general public.

Material and methods

A systematic search of MEDLINE, EMBASE, and PyschINFO databases was undertaken, for studies that examined the psychosocial attitudes among women toward OFNMR. The search was limited to English language and no time restriction was set for publications. Extracted data were analyzed using thematic analysis and the study was performed according to PRISMA guidelines with prospective PROSPERO registration (CRD4201912578).

Results

Overall, 35 studies met the inclusion criteria. Studies were broadly categorized into studies investigating users or potential users of OFNMR, and studies examining the views of members of the general public. Users of OFNMR have good knowledge of age‐related fertility decline and awareness of the OFNMR procedure. Lack of partner was identified as the most common motivating factor to undertake OFNMR, with cost as a predominant concern. Knowledge among the general public of OFNMR is highly variable. Underestimation of age‐related fertility decline is common among the general public. Intentions of women to use OFNMR also varied drastically between studies.

Conclusions

Women are predominantly motivated to freeze eggs by the lack of a suitable partner, but cost is a significant barrier. Increasing the number of women pursuing OFNMR at an earlier stage may positively impact upon the risk of future involuntary childlessness. Better information should be made available to both women and men about their fertility and options to inform their reproductive decision‐making.
Eltrombopag as first‐line treatment for thrombocytopenia among paediatric patients after allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Qiu Kun‐yin , Liao Xiong‐yu , Huang Ke , Wu Ruo‐hao , Xu Hong‐gui , Xu Lu‐hong , Li Yang , Weng Wen‐jun , Zhou Dun‐hua , Fang Jian‐pei
Published: October 2020

Aims

The purpose of this study is to examine the safety and efficacy of eltrombopag as first‐line treatment for thrombocytopenia among paediatric patients after haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT).

Methods

Forty‐three childhood patients with thrombocytopenia after HSCT who received eltrombopag were retrospectively analysed.

Result

Eltrombopag was began at the median of 27 days after HSCT and lasted for 24 days. Thirty‐five children responded to eltrombopag therapy, and the cumulative platelet recovery rate was 88.9%. The cumulative incidence of platelet recovery was lower (83.9 vs 100%; P = .035) in patients with decreased numbers of megakaryocytes before starting eltrombopag than in those with normal. Factors associated with a significantly elevated response to eltrobopag from univariate analysis were donor type. Results from the multiple regression analysis found that weight (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.7, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.5–0.9, P = .022), platelet engraftment time (HR = 1.0, 95%CI 1.0–1.0, P = .012) and bone marrow megakaryocytes (HR = 8.0, 95%CI 1.5–43.3, P = .016) before starting eltrombopag were the independent risk factors. Based on Youden's index algorithm in the receiver‐operating characteristic curve, the optimal cut‐off value of the maintenance dose of eltrombopag in predicting nonresponders was 4 mg/kg. The area under the receiver‐operating characteristic curve was 0.923 with sensitivity of 97.8%, specificity of 87.9%, positive predictive value of 72.3%, and negative predictive value of 92%. None of the paediatric patients stopped using eltrombopag due to side effect or intolerability.

Conclusion

Eltrombopag is effective and safe in paediatric patients with thrombocytopenia after HSCT. The number of megakaryocytes in bone marrow before eltrombopag treatment may serve as a predictor of the response to eltrombopag. We recommend that the maintenance dose of eltrombopag should not exceed 4 mg/kg/d.
A novel digital and visualized guided bone regeneration procedure and digital precise bone augmentation: A case series
Authors: Li Songhang , Zhang Tianxu , Zhou Mi , Zhang Xiaolin , Gao Yang , Cai Xiaoxiao
Published: October 2020

Background

Although the traditional bone augmentation technology can basically meet the clinical needs at present, the effect of bone augmentation in most cases is related to the experience of the operator.

Propose

This study commits to providing a digital solution for precise bone augmentation in the field of oral implantology.

Materials and methods

After collecting the data of patients' intraoral scanning and DICOM (digital imaging and communications in medicine), the implant position is digitally designed, and the alveolar bone is digitally augmented around the ideal implant position. On the premise of ensuring that the thickness of labial bone is 2 mm, and there is sufficient alveolar bone 3 to 4 mm apically from the ideal gingival margin for implant placing, we carry out excessive augmentation of 0.5 and 1 mm on the labial bone and alveolar crest, respectively, to compensate for possible bone resorption after 6 months. After 3D printing the reconstructed alveolar bone model, the titanium mesh is trimmed and preformed on the alveolar bone model. Outcomes are reported in terms of mean values (5%‐95% percentile values).

Results

Thirty implant sites have accepted this novel virtually designed alveolar bone augmentation. Before the second‐stage surgery, the average vertical bone gain was 2.48 mm (0.29‐6.32), the average horizontal bone gain was 4.11 mm (1.19‐8.74), the average height of the residual alveolar bone above the implant platform was 1.44 mm (0.59‐2.92), the average thickness of the labial bone width at the implant platform was 2.00 mm (0.93‐3.64), the average thickness of the labial bone width at 2 mm apically from the implant platform was 2.74 mm (1.40‐5.46). The virtual augmentation of each tooth position was 349.41 mm3 (165.70‐482.70), while the actual augmentation of each tooth position was 352.94 mm3 (159.24‐501.78), the accuracy of the final actual augmentation reached 95.82% (range from 88.53% to 99.15%).

Conclusion

This case series suggests that a virtually digital guided bone regeneration (GBR) workflow is precise and controllable. The practicality, safety and effectiveness of this procedure needs to be compared to other bone augmentation procedures in randomized controlled trials.
Critical habitat identification of peripheral Sage Thrashers under climate change
Authors: Millikin Rhonda L. , Joy Ruth , Komaromi Jason , Harrison Megan , Mahony Nancy , Vander Haegen William Matthew
Published: October 2020

The Sage Thrasher (Oreoscoptes montanus) has been assessed as “Endangered” in Canada since 1992. Like other species with a geographic range that barely extends into Canada, Sage Thrashers are rare. Thirty‐one percent of Canada's bird species listed for recovery under the Canadian Species at Risk Act (SARA) are at the periphery of their range. A listing of “endangered” under SARA requires identification of critical habitat for the species. With anticipated climate change, recovery of species requires a more proactive intervention than relying on historical occurrence to locate suitable habitat. We synthesized 19 years of Sage Thrasher occurrence and related habitat data across the species' northern range in British Columbia (BC) and Washington (WA) to define critical habitat characteristics. We found Sage Thrashers selected less leaf litter and less grass cover in flat or low‐slope regions farther from anthropogenic or natural habitat breaks; habitat sensitive to the expected climate change impacts of fire, changes in precipitation, and invasive species establishment. By augmenting the BC data collected in the species' peripheral range with data from their core distribution in WA, we identified key habitat elements of an otherwise data‐poor species that do not breed in sufficient numbers in Canada to reliably characterize their habitat. These methods improve the identification of “critical habitat” for peripheral species like Sage Thrashers in preparation for climate‐induced range expansion northward. The framework developed demonstrates a useful template for conservation strategies for data‐limited peripheral populations in other regions. Focusing on the landscape‐level variables that indicate good habitat, and not the locations of habitat, can identify suitable future areas for conservation.