bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Middle childhood development in personal values
Authors: Daniel Ella , Misgav Kinneret , Chomsky Anat
Published: September 2023

Objective

We aimed to investigate value change and stability longitudinally in middle childhood.

Background

Values are the aspect of personality defining one's aspirations. Research identifies meaningful values in middle childhood, yet we know little about the process of their development within individual.

Method

Children (N = 298; 53.7% girls, Mage = 7 years and 3 months, SD = 7.70 months, at the first time point) four times, annually.

Results

Rank‐order stability increased with age and decreased with time‐span. We found value hierarchy consistency, with value hierarchy similar to adolescents in the priority given to openness to change versus conservation values, and to adults in the priority given to self‐transcendence values. Latent growth curve analyses indicated linear increase in openness to change, and curvilinear increase in self‐transcendence values, and linear decrease in conservation and self‐enhancement values, with some differences across ages. Value structure was better differentiated with age. Compatible values changed in similar, and conflicting values in opposite directions.

Conclusions

This paper suggests that in middle childhood, children can already report stable values. Moreover, middle childhood is characterized by coherent change patterns, of increase in the importance of growth, and decrease in the focus on conflicting protection values.
Grass pollen surface ornamentation is diverse across the phylogeny: Evidence from northern South America and the global literature
Authors: Wei Cai‐Xia , Jardine Phillip E. , Mao Li‐Mi , Mander Luke , Li Mao , Gosling William D. , Hoorn Carina
Published: September 2023

The grasses are one of the most diverse plant families on Earth. However, their classification and evolutionary history are obscured by their pollen stenopalynous (similar) morphology. A combination of high‐resolution imaging of pollen surface ornamentation and computational analysis has previously been proposed as a promising tool to classify grass taxonomic boundaries. In this study, we test this hypothesis by studying Poaceae pollen across the phylogeny from plants collected in northern South America and also from published literature across the globe. We assessed if morphotypes that we establish using descriptive terminology are supported by computational analysis, if they vary along six (a)biotic variables and vary across the phylogeny. Based on this analysis, we constructed a reference framework for pollen surface ornamentation morphotypes. Our results showed that there is a wide variation of grass pollen surface ornamentation. We identified nine new and confirmed six known morphotypes, establishing a data set for 223 species (243 individual plant specimens) that represent 11 subfamilies. Computational analysis showed that our morphotypes are well‐supported by two quantitative features of pollen sculptural elements (size and density). The specific data set and mapping of the phylogeny confirmed that pollen morphological sculpture is unrelated to (a)biotic variables and is diverse across the phylogeny.
Predictors of non‐transplantable recurrence in hepatocellular carcinoma patients treated with frontline liver resection
Authors: Pelizzaro Filippo , Trevisani Franco , Simeon Vittorio , Vitale Alessandro , Cillo Umberto , Piscaglia Fabio , Missale Gabriele , Sangiovanni Angelo , Foschi Francesco G. , Cabibbo Giuseppe , Caturelli Eugenio , Di Marco Maria , Azzaroli Francesco , Brunetto Maurizia R. , Raimondo Giovanni , Vidili Gianpaolo , Guarino Maria , Gasbarrini Antonio , Campani Claudia , Svegliati‐Baroni Gianluca , Giannini Edoardo G. , Mega Andrea , Masotto Alberto , Rapaccini Gian Ludovico , Magalotti Donatella , Sacco Rodolfo , Nardone Gerardo , Farinati Fabio ,   for the Italian Liver Cancer (ITA.LI.CA) group
Published: September 2023

Background and Aims

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) recurrence is common in patients treated with liver resection (LR). In this study, we aimed to evaluate the incidence and preoperative predictors of non‐transplantable recurrence in patients with single HCC ≤5 cm treated with frontline LR.

Methods

From the Italian Liver Cancer (ITA.LI.CA) database, 512 patients receiving frontline LR for single HCC ≤5 cm were retrieved. Incidence and predictors of recurrence beyond Milan criteria (MC) and up‐to‐seven criteria were compared between patients with HCC <4 and ≥4 cm.

Results

During a median follow‐up of 4.2 years, the overall recurrence rate was 55.9%. In the ≥4 cm group, a significantly higher proportion of patients recurred beyond MC at first recurrence (28.9% vs. 14.1%; p < 0.001) and overall (44.4% vs. 25.2%; p < 0.001). Similar results were found considering recurrence beyond up‐to‐seven criteria. Compared to those with larger tumours, patients with HCC <4 cm had a longer recurrence‐free survival and overall survival. HCC size ≥4 cm and high alpha‐fetoprotein (AFP) level at the time of LR were independent predictors of recurrence beyond MC (and up‐to‐seven criteria). In the subgroup of patients with available histologic information (n = 354), microvascular invasion and microsatellite lesions were identified as additional independent risk factors for non‐transplantable recurrence.

Conclusions

Despite the high recurrence rate, LR for single HCC ≤5 cm offers excellent long‐term survival. Non‐transplantable recurrence is predicted by HCC size and AFP levels, among pre‐operatively available variables. High‐risk patients could be considered for frontline LT or listed for transplantation even before recurrence.
Superiority of the new sex‐adjusted models to remove the female disadvantage restoring equity in liver transplant allocation
Authors: Marrone Giuseppe , Giannelli Valerio , Agnes Salvatore , Avolio Alfonso Wolfango , Baiocchi Leonardo , Berardi Giammauro , Ettorre Giuseppe Maria , Ferri Flaminia , Corradini Stefano Ginanni , Grieco Antonio , Guglielmo Nicola , Lenci Ilaria , Lionetti Raffaella , Mennini Gianluca , Milana Martina , Rossi Massimo , Spoletini Gabriele , Tisone Giuseppe , Manzia Tommaso Maria , Lai Quirino
Published: September 2023

Background and Aims

Model for End‐stage Liver Disease (MELD) and MELDNa are used worldwide to guide graft allocation in liver transplantation (LT). Evidence exists that females are penalized in the present allocation systems. Recently, new sex‐adjusted scores have been proposed with improved performance respect to MELD and MELDNa. GEMA‐Na, MELD 3.0, and sex‐adjusted MELDNa were developed to improve the 90‐day dropout prediction from the list. The present study aimed at evaluating the accuracy and calibration of these scores in an Italian setting.

Methods

The primary outcome of the present study was the dropout from the list up to 90 days because of death or clinical deterioration. We retrospectively analysed data from 855 adults enlisted for liver transplantation in the Lazio region (Italy) (2012–2018). Ninety‐day prediction of GEMA‐Na, MELD 3.0 and sex‐adjusted MELDNa with respect to MELD and MELDNa was analysed. Brier score and Brier Skill score were used for accuracy, and the Greenwood‐Nam‐D'Agostino test was used to evaluate the calibration of the models.

Results

GEMA‐Na (concordance = .82, 95% CI = .75–.89), MELD 3.0 (concordance = .81, 95% CI = .74–.87) and sex‐adjusted MELDNa (concordance = .81, 95% CI = .74–.88) showed the best 90‐day dropout prediction. GEMA‐Na showed a higher increase in accuracy with respect to MELD (p = .03). No superiority was shown with respect to MELDNa. All the tested scores showed a good calibration of the models. Using GEMA‐Na instead of MELD would potentially save one in nine dropouts and could save one dropout per 285 patients listed.

Conclusions

Validation and reclassification of the sex‐adjusted score GEMA‐Na confirm its superiority in predicting short‐term dropout also in an Italian setting when compared with MELD.
Unenriched xylem water contribution during cellulose synthesis influenced by atmospheric demand governs the intra‐annual tree‐ring δ18O signature
Authors: Martínez‐Sancho Elisabet , Cernusak Lucas A. , Fonti Patrick , Gregori Alessandro , Ullrich Bastian , Pannatier Elisabeth Graf , Gessler Arthur , Lehmann Marco M. , Saurer Matthias , Treydte Kerstin
Published: September 2023

The oxygen isotope composition (δ18O) of tree‐ring cellulose is used to evaluate tree physiological responses to climate, but their interpretation is still limited due to the complexity of the isotope fractionation pathways.

We assessed the relative contribution of seasonal needle and xylem water δ18O variations to the intra‐annual tree‐ring cellulose δ18O signature of larch trees at two sites with contrasting soil water availability in the Swiss Alps. We combined biweekly δ18O measurements of soil water, needle water, and twig xylem water with intra‐annual δ18O measurements of tree‐ring cellulose, xylogenesis analysis, and mechanistic and structural equation modeling.

Intra‐annual cellulose δ18O values resembled source water δ18O mean levels better than needle water δ18O. Large parts of the rings were formed under high proportional exchange with unenriched xylem water (pex). Maximum pex values were achieved in August and imprinted on sections at 50–75% of the ring. High pex values were associated with periods of high atmospheric evaporative demand (VPD). While VPD governed needle water δ18O variability, we estimated a limited Péclet effect at both sites.

Due to a variable pex, source water has a strong influence over large parts of the intra‐annual tree‐ring cellulose δ18O variations, potentially masking signals coming from needle‐level processes.
With Revolutionary Battery Tech, We Can Shift Global Energy To Renewables
Authors: Joy Bill
Published: September 2023

Inventor and investor Bill Joy describes a breakthrough technology that can speed the de‐carbonization of the planet.
Associations between social media, adolescent mental health, and diet: A systematic review
Authors: Blanchard Laurence , Conway‐Moore Kaitlin , Aguiar Anaely , Önal Furkan , Rutter Harry , Helleve Arnfinn , Nwosu Emmanuel , Falcone Jane , Savona Natalie , Boyland Emma , Knai Cécile
Published: September 2023

Social media use is integral to many adolescents' lives. It brings benefits but can also have detrimental effects on both physical and mental health. We conducted a systematic review examining associations between social media use, adolescent mental health (including body image, self‐esteem, stress, interpersonal relationships and loneliness, anxiety, and depressive symptoms), and dietary outcomes. Quantitative studies published between 2019 and 2023 investigating both mental health and diet were searched in 11 databases. The risk of bias was appraised using ROBINS‐E. Data were narratively synthesized by type of association, PROGRESS‐Plus health equity characteristics, and related to social media influencers. Twenty‐one studies were included, of which only one focused on influencers. Sex/gender was the only equity characteristic assessed (n = 8), with mixed results. The findings suggest significant positive correlations between social media use and both depressive and disordered eating symptoms, body dissatisfaction, and anxiety. Four studies identified body image, self‐esteem, or anxiety as moderators acting between social media exposure and dietary outcomes. Policy interventions mitigating the impact of social media on adolescents—particularly body image and disordered eating—are needed, alongside follow‐up studies on causal pathways, the role of influencers, equity impacts, dietary intake, and the best measurement tools to use.
Data science assisted cohesive finite element modelling of impact behaviour of AP‐HTPB crystal binder composite
Authors: Harjono Hanson‐Lee , Ravva Saranya , Singh Mahavir , Huang Henry , Tomar Vikas
Published: September 2023

In this work, the response of an ammonium perchlorate (AP)‐hydroxyl‐terminated polybutadiene (HTPB) composite material under impact loading is presented, utilizing computational cohesive finite element method (CFEM) simulations that are validated with drop hammer experiments. This study examined the impact behaviour of AP crystal sizes between 200 and 400 μm by varying impact velocities between 3 and 10 m/s. Based on the outcome of CFEM simulations, analysis of variance (ANOVA) tests and a response surface method (RSM) were utilized to construct a mathematical model approximating the relationships between simulation inputs and outcomes. Both computational and experimental results show that the local strain rate has a considerable positive correlation with crystal size, and the rate of temperature change has positive correlations with both crystal size and impact velocity. Further, it was observed that stiffness and compression energy are the primary factors to variances in local strain rate and rate of change of temperature. RSM has been found to be an effective tool for modelling impact responses of materials under varying experimental conditions.
One‐dimensional local families of complex K3 surfaces
Authors: Carini Riccardo , Viganò Francesco
Published: September 2023

For any complex K3 surface , we construct a one‐dimensional deformation in which all integers with occur as Picard numbers of some fibres. In contrast, we prove that the generic one‐dimensional local family of K3 surfaces admits only 0 and 1 as Picard numbers of the fibres.
State of the art of thyroid pathology: FNA diagnostic accuracy in an intermediate center in Ibagué
Authors: Velez Bohorquez Daniel Javier , Varon Arce Nohora Bibiana , Tellez Olaya Sandra Milena , Mora Garcia Sebastian Camilo , Velez Bohorquez Anggi Margarita , Bohorquez Lozano Mabel Elena
Published: September 2023

Background: In Colombia, thyroid cancer is the 7th cancer in incidence and mortality for both sexes. Currently the fine needle aspiration (FNA) is the most used method for studying nodular lesions of the thyroid.

Objective: Describe the characteristics of a sample of surgical specimens in a histopathological diagnostic centre located in an intermediate city, correlate characteristics of PTC variants and calculate diagnostic accuracy for FNA

Materials and methods: In this retrospective study pathology report data was gathered from a diagnosis centre, information was included from patients who underwent thyroid biopsy or resection between years 2015 to 2022, with a total of 495 cases, information was gathered, and a statistical analysis was performed.

Results: a higher frequency for all thyroid pathologies in patients younger than 55 years of age. In men papillary carcinoma (PTC) was the most frequent diagnosis (42.7%) while in women it was hyperplasia (39.1%). From all diagnoses of PTC (n=233)77.6% had an additional diagnosis. Cases with previous FNA, 65.3% of which had a Bethesda score of II to IV and 30.5% of those had a definitive diagnosis of carcinoma.

Conclusions: There is coexistence of benign thyroid diseases and PTC. FNA is essential for the initial histopathological study of thyroid lesions, however it has multiple factors that may affect its diagnostic accuracy.
Heat Transfer and Film Cooling in an Aggressive Turbine Center Frame
Authors: Jagerhofer Patrick R. , Glasenapp Tobias , Patzer Bastian , Göttlich Emil
Published: September 2023

This article investigates the heat transfer coefficient and the film cooling effectiveness in a turbine center frame (TCF). The TCF is a duct connecting the high-pressure turbine (HPT) to the low-pressure turbine (LPT) and is equipped with nonturning airfoils (struts). The TCF is operated in a product-representative 1.5-stage test turbine setup working under Mach number similarity. Upstream of the TCF, an unshrouded HPT is operated with four individually adjustable purge flow injections through the forward and aft cavities on the hub and tip of the rotor. The heat transfer coefficient and the purge film cooling effectiveness are measured on the hub and the nonturning struts of the aerodynamically aggressive TCF using infrared thermography and tailor-made heating foils. To further extend the film cooling investigation, the seed gas concentration technique, in conjunction with the heat-mass transfer analogy, is used as a second film cooling measurement technique. Seeding the HPT cavities with different foreign gases reveals every individual purge flow's contribution to the global film cooling effectiveness in the TCF. In addition, the seed gas technique extends the investigated area for film cooling to the optically inaccessible shroud of the TCF. The heat transfer in the TCF was found to be dominated by secondary flow features of the upstream HPT. Longitudinal streaks of alternating high and low heat transfer were found on the hub connected to the number and the position of the upstream HPT vanes. A similar pattern was found in the film cooling effectiveness, where the film cooling streaks were situated between the high heat transfer streaks. The film cooling coverage on the shroud was found to be even, symmetric, and superior to the hub cooling performance, with around 10% less usage of purge mass flow.
Investigation of the Effects of Hydrogen-Enriched Natural Gas Blends and Pure Hydrogen on the Performance of a Domestic Condensing Boiler
Authors: Yaïci Wahiba , Entchev Evgueniy
Published: September 2023

Following increased awareness about the deleterious effects of climate change on the environment, many corporations and institutions are making concerted efforts to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions through policy reviews and technological changes. One area of promise is the replacement of natural gas (NG) with hydrogen (H2) for use in residential and industrial sectors. Hydrogen can play a significant role in reducing emissions in heating applications within the built environment. In a net-zero emissions future where distributed combustion emissions must be largely eliminated, zero-carbon fuels and hydrogen solutions for heating are some of the most cost-effective and flexible paths that will facilitate the sector’s energy transition. In the short term, hydrogen is currently being blended in small amounts into existing NG networks around the world. This has an impact on the performance of appliances designed for NG, as certain gas properties will change.

In this study, the effects of hydrogen on a domestic condensing boiler designed for NG, was investigated. The combustion reaction as a function of hydrogen content and oxygen content was determined. Stoichiometric, lean, and incomplete combustion were considered. Incomplete combustion leads to the formation of polluting emissions, while lean combustion is used to mitigate this by using excess air. An analytical model was developed to determine the outputs, that are, theoretical condensable water mass, heating value ratio, saturation temperature, maximum saturation temperature, and condensation efficiency, which were the main outputs that were systematically analyzed.

Results showed that water vapour in the exhaust gas had the most remarkable effect on properties, and in consequence, on the boiler’s operation. Optimum efficiency occurred when the molar fraction of water vapour was maximized. This corresponded to the combustion of pure hydrogen at stoichiometric conditions. It was further observed that pollutant emissions formation was minimized with greater amounts of excess air via lean combustion, which also resulted in a smaller water vapour fraction. The addition of hydrogen also reduced emissions since the only combustion product of pure hydrogen is water. Hydrogen should be used in lean combustion with minimal excess air to optimize economic and environmental benefits. This guarantees greater performance over pure natural gas dispensed in the same conditions, while mitigating the formation of polluting emissions.
Modeling and Analysis of Hydrogen Supply System With Dual Ejector Concept For Vehicular Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell
Authors: Truong Le Tri Dat , Vu Hoang Nghia , Kim Younghyeon , Yu Sangseok
Published: September 2023

The performance of proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFC) is significantly influenced by the hydrogen supply system (HSS). It typically consists of the hydrogen tank, the pressure regulator, the water separator, and the ejector, which is a vital component of the anodic recirculation system (ARS). As the vehicle’s operation necessitates a wide range of power output, the recirculation system must have an appropriate design to function accurately. A fixed-shape ejector is found to be tough to cover the whole range required. Furthermore, determining a suitable ejector geometry throughout the working conditions of the PEMFC is quite challenging. Therefore, the idea of applying the dual-ejector design in the ARS is introduced. In this study, using the concept of dual ejector ARS, the one-dimensional model of the whole hydrogen supply system integrated with the PEMFC is developed in MATLAB/Simulink platform. Design parameters are included in the ejector model so that the design analysis can be conducted. Therefore, the performance of the hydrogen supply system using the dual ejector concept is deployed under dynamic operation. The results show that the dual ejectors can well cover all operating ranges of a vehicular fuel cell. In addition, an improvement in stack performance is captured when utilizing the dual ejector-based anodic recirculation system.
Spray Overlap and Heat Transfer Coefficient Uniformity in the Continuous Casting
Authors: Patil Ninad , Al Manasir Rashed , Silaen Armin K. , Walla Nicholas , Zhou Chenn
Published: September 2023

Continuous casting is an efficient method of producing large volumes of semi-finished steel products. Uniform and efficient heat removal is required to ensure the steel is produced without any cracks while meeting the high steel production target. One of the challenges in the continuous casting process is providing uniform spray cooling rate as needed based on the casting production rate. Improved control of steel cooling rate is critical. The heat removal rate is dependent on the spray nozzle configurations (nozzle spray angle, distance between spray nozzles, nozzle stand-off distance, and water flow rate). The current study presents a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis of spray cooling for two nozzles with overlapping sprays. The Lagrangian approach is adopted to track the droplets. In order to predict the slab cooling accurately in the overlap region, droplet breakup and collision are included in the model. The effects of different spray overlap region sizes on the heat transfer coefficient are evaluated by changing the nozzle-to-nozzle distance. The results show that there is an optimum size of spray overlap which provides uniform heat transfer between the two adjacent nozzles. Further increase of the overlap increases heat transfers in the overlap region, which could lead to overcooling of the slab.
Physical Inactivity Prevalence in the Islamic World: An Updated Analysis of 47 Countries
Authors: Kahan David
Published: September 2023

Background: Physical inactivity prevalence estimates for youth and adults have been published on a global scale and for various geographical and geopolitical permutations. Only one such study has presented estimates for adults in Muslim countries, and it is nearly 10 years old. I conducted an update of this study by incorporating newer data, refining methods, and including youth estimates. Methods: I identified 47 Muslim countries with physical inactivity data for youth, adults, or both. Data were extracted by country primarily from global estimates reported by Guthold et al in 2018 and 2020 and from World Health Organization surveillance data repositories. Weighted prevalence calculations for total prevalence and by sex, ethnicity (Arab vs non-Arab), and country income group accounted for country population, study sample size, and a country’s proportion of Muslims. Z tests and chi-square tests, and follow-up odds ratios and percentage deviations, respectively, were used to determine differences by sex, ethnicity, and country income group. Results: Overall physical inactivity prevalence was 84.2% (youth) and 29.6% (adults). Gaps favoring males over females were observed for youth (5.6% lower prevalence) and adults (9.6% lower prevalence). Gaps favoring non-Arabs over Arabs were observed for youth (3.9% lower) and adults (3.8% lower). No pattern emerged for country income group for youth; however, prevalence for adults trended upward across income groups from low (22.7%) to high (62.0%). Conclusions: Gaps by sex and ethnicity have narrowed since the original report and prevalence values are somewhat higher than current global estimates.
Impact of Attentional Focus on Dance Performance: A Critically Appraised Topic
Authors: Wiese Kelley R. , Ambegaonkar Jatin P. , Martin Joel
Published: September 2023

Clinical Scenario: Dancing is a demanding esthetic activity with dancers having an 85% annual injury incident rate when performing complex dance motor skills. Teachers and clinicians use a combination of external and internal attentional cues when teaching dancers motor skills and when working on rehabilitation programs with injured dancers, respectively. External attentional focus (ie, focusing on movement outcome) reportedly results in superior performance than internal attentional focus (ie, focus on body movements). Interestingly, dancers reportedly often adopt an internal focus when dancing. Still, limited literature exists examining the effects of attentional focus on dancers’ performance. Clinical Question: How does attentional focus (external or internal) impact performance in dancers? Summary of Key Findings: Four original quasi-experimental studies met inclusion criteria. In the current examination, we found mixed results about the impact of attentional focus in dancers. Specifically, using an external attentional focus resulted in better performance in 2 studies, but these findings were limited to lesser experienced dancers. Experienced dancers did not have any physical performance differences when using external or internal focus. Internal focus also did not negatively affect dancers’ performance in 2 studies. Some authors noted positive motivational effects (eg, increased perceived competence) when dancers used external focus. Clinical Bottom Line: Low-quality evidence exists supporting the notion that in less experienced dance students, external focus improves performance. In experienced dancers, the type of attentional focus did not impact performance. External focus provides positive mental effects. Thus, clinicians working with dancers can integrate individualized feedback according to dancer level, with a preference toward external focus due to positive mental effects, to design optimal training and rehabilitation programs. Strength of Recommendation: Grade B evidence exists supporting the notion that an external attentional focus improves performance in less experienced dance students and also has positive mental effects. Internal attentional focus does not impede experienced dancers’ performance.
The phenotype and genotype of fermentative prokaryotes
Authors: Hackmann Timothy J. , Zhang Bo
Published: September 2023

Fermentation is a type of metabolism pervasive in oxygen-deprived environments. Despite its importance, we know little about the range and traits of organisms that carry out this metabolism. Our study addresses this gap with a comprehensive analysis of the phenotype and genotype of fermentative prokaryotes. We assembled a dataset with phenotypic records of 8350 organisms plus 4355 genomes and 13.6 million genes. Our analysis reveals fermentation is both widespread (in ~30% of prokaryotes) and complex (forming ~300 combinations of metabolites). Furthermore, it points to previously uncharacterized proteins involved in this metabolism. Previous studies suggest that metabolic pathways for fermentation are well understood, but metabolic models built in our study show gaps in our knowledge. This study demonstrates the complexity of fermentation while showing that there is still much to learn about this metabolism. All resources in our study can be explored by the scientific community with an online, interactive tool.
Supplemental Material: Mid-Mesoproterozoic (ca. 1.37 Ga) anorogenic magmatism in the Dabie orogen, northern Yangtze Craton: Response to the breakup of Columbia
Authors: Jin Wei , Liu Jian-Hui , et al.
Published: September 2023

Zircon U-Pb-Hf isotopic and whole-rock geochemical compositions of mid-Mesoproterozoic granites in the northern Yangtze Craton.
Perspective—The Paramount Impact of Lupus Patient Empowerment
Authors: Hamijoyo Laniyati , Consignado Jonathan Paul , Navarra Sandra V.
Published: September 2023

Patient empowerment in lupus is a process wherein patients actively participate in decision-making with healthcare professionals and take responsibility for their own condition. In order to effectively be involved in their medical care and achieve the best treatment outcomes, patients have to be equipped with a sufficient body of knowledge and understanding of lupus and its intricacies. Furthermore, the significant roles of families and caregivers, other healthcare professionals and support systems, and policymakers in each country have an immense impact on health outcomes and the overall quality of life.
Leveraging TROP2 Antibody-Drug Conjugates in Solid Tumors
Authors: Nelson Blessie Elizabeth , Meric-Bernstam Funda
Published: September 2023

Antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) have become the cornerstone of effective therapeutics in solid and hematological malignancies by harnessing potent cytotoxic payloads with targeted tumoricidal delivery. Since the monumental shift occurred with HER2-targeted ADCs, the discovery of the TROP2 antigen has revolutionized the landscape of ADC development. Moving beyond the traditional ADC design, multiple novel ADCs have successfully shaped and improved survival outcomes in patients with various tumor histologies. Here we review and contrast the clinical impact of the well-known TROP2 ADCs currently in clinical use. We also shed light on upcoming investigational TROP2 ADCs showing promise with novel ADC platforms.
Update on Epithelial-Mesenchymal Plasticity in Cancer Progression
Authors: Fontana Rosa , Mestre-Farrera Aida , Yang Jing
Published: September 2023

Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a cellular process by which epithelial cells lose their characteristics and acquire mesenchymal traits to promote cell movement. This program is aberrantly activated in human cancers and endows tumor cells with increased abilities in tumor initiation, cell migration, invasion, metastasis, and therapy resistance. The EMT program in tumors is rarely binary and often leads to a series of gradual or intermediate epithelial-mesenchymal states. Functionally, epithelial-mesenchymal plasticity (EMP) improves the fitness of cancer cells during tumor progression and in response to therapies. Here, we discuss the most recent advances in our understanding of the diverse roles of EMP in tumor initiation, progression, metastasis, and therapy resistance and address major clinical challenges due to EMP-driven phenotypic heterogeneity in cancer. Uncovering novel molecular markers and key regulators of EMP in cancer will aid the development of new therapeutic strategies to prevent cancer recurrence and overcome therapy resistance.
Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding Caused by Rupture of Pancreatic Pseudoaneurysms
Authors: Lam Huong Tu , Nguyen Thang Dinh , Ho Phat Tan , Van Nguyen Ai , Nguyen Tuan Huynh Nhat , Van Le Phuoc , Vo Thong Duy
Published: September 2023

Pseudoaneurysm rupture in patients with pancreatitis is a rare but fatal etiology of upper gastrointestinal bleeding. We report a rare case of upper gastrointestinal bleeding in a patient who presented simultaneously with two pseudoaneurysms, a potential cause of severe gastrointestinal bleeding. Angiography was successfully performed with coil embolization of the target arteries and both pseudoaneurysmal sacs. The patient was discharged 9 days after admission without further events within a 3-month follow-up period.
Disparities in Antenatal Care Visits between Urban and Rural Ethiopian Women
Authors: Wake Senahara Korsa , Botore Abera , Mohammed Ahmed , Gemede Kolato , Bariso Moyata , Gerema Urge
Published: September 2023

Background. Utilizing antenatal care is one of the best ways to identify issues that are already present or could arise throughout pregnancy. Despite increased efforts to expand health services and antenatal care utilization, less is known regarding antenatal care disparities across different population segments. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to assess the degree of discrepancies between urban and rural Ethiopian pregnant women’s use of antenatal care. Methods. A total sample of 3927 women who gave birth to living children between 2014 and 2019 was included in the study from the 2019 Ethiopia Mini Demographic and Health Survey. Negative binomial Poisson’s regression was adopted to analyze the data. Results. The majority of pregnant women (73.8%) attend at least one antenatal care. Pregnant women in rural areas visited fewer number of antenatal care (68.36%) than those in urban areas (90.1%). Women with age range of 30-40 (IRR: 4.56, 95% CI: 1.07-19.34), women with attending incomplete primary education (IRR: 0.05, 95% CI: 0.02-0.12), women with attending complete primary education (IRR: 0.17, 95% CI: 0.07-0.42), women from middle-income households (IRR: 0.12, 95% CI: 0.06-0.24), women from richer household (IRR: 0.26, 95% CI: 0.14,0.5), women from the richest household (IRR: 0.45, 95% CI: 0.24-0.86), and pregnant women from rural areas (IRR: 0.615, 95%: 0.56-0.67) were observed to be linked with the frequency of antenatal care visits. Conclusion. In Ethiopia, three-fourths of pregnant women attend at least one antenatal care. Place of residence, educational attainment, age in five years’ group, and wealth index for urban/rural were related to the frequency of antenatal care visits.
Cancer Prevalence Projections in Japan and Decomposition Analysis of Changes in Cancer Burden, 2020–2050: A Statistical Modeling Study
Authors: Nguyen Phuong The , Hori Megumi , Matsuda Tomohiro , Katanoda Kota
Published: September 2023

Background:

We provide comprehensive sex-stratified projections of cancer prevalence for 22 cancer sites in Japan from 2020 to 2050.

Methods:

Using a scenario-based approach, we projected cancer prevalence by combining projected incidence cases and survival probabilities. Age-specific incidences were forecasted using age–period–cohort models, while survival rates were estimated using a period-analysis approach and multiple parametric survival models. To understand changes in cancer prevalence, decomposition analysis was conducted, assessing the contributions of incidence, survival, and population demographics.

Results:

By 2050, cancer prevalence in Japan is projected to reach 3,665,900 (3,210,200 to 4,201,400) thousand cases, representing a 13.1% increase from 2020. This rise is primarily due to a significant increase in female survivors (+27.6%) compared with a modest increase in males (+0.8%), resulting in females overtaking males in prevalence counts from 2040 onward. In 2050, the projected most prevalent cancer sites in Japan include colorectal, female breast, prostate, lung, and stomach cancers, accounting for 66.4% of all survivors. Among males, the highest absolute increases in prevalence are projected for prostate, lung, and malignant lymphoma cancers, while among females, the highest absolute increases are expected for female breast, colorectal, and corpus uteri cancers.

Conclusions:

These findings emphasize the evolving cancer prevalence, influenced by aging populations, changes in cancer incidence rates, and improved survival. Effective prevention, detection, and treatment strategies are crucial to address the growing cancer burden.

Impact:

This study contributes to comprehensive cancer control strategies and ensures sufficient support for cancer survivors in Japan.
Upregulation of Indoleamine 2,3-Dioxygenase 1 in Tumor Cells and Tertiary Lymphoid Structures is a Hallmark of Inflamed Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Bessede Alban , Peyraud Florent , Le Moulec Sylvestre , Cousin Sophie , Cabart Mathilde , Chomy François , Rey Christophe , Lara Oren , Odin Ophélie , Nafia Imane , Guegan Jean-Philippe , Italiano Antoine
Published: September 2023

Purpose:

Overexpression of the tryptophan-catabolizing enzyme indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase 1 (IDO1) has been reported in several tumor types, including non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), and has been shown to promote tumor-immune evasion and inhibit T-cell activation through increased tryptophan degradation and the production of several immunosuppressive metabolites collectively known as kynurenines. However, it remains unclear whether IDO1 expression by tumor cells is detrimental specifically in the context of programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1)/programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1) axis blockade.

Experimental Design:

We analyzed the transcriptome of 891 NSCLC tumor samples from patients enrolled in two large randomized clinical trials investigating the safety and activity of atezolizumab, a humanized IgG1 mAb that targets PD-L1, versus docetaxel in patients with advanced NSCLC. We complemented these transcriptomics results at the protein level by using multiplex immunofluorescence and at the functional level with in vitro experiments.

Results:

The increased expression of the tryptophan-catabolizing enzyme IDO1 was significantly associated with improved objective response, progression-free survival, and overall survival in patients treated with PD-L1 inhibitors, but not in those treated with chemotherapy. Strikingly, inflamed tumors had higher levels of IDO1, and IDO1 was also expressed in tertiary lymphoid structures (TLS) by mature follicular dendritic cells. L-kynurenine impaired the differentiation of antibody-producing B cells induced by follicular helper T (Tfh)/B-cell interactions, a hallmark process within TLS.

Conclusions:

IDO1 pathway in NSCLC is driven by the immune system rather than by tumor cells. Targeting IDO1 in combination with anti–PD-1/PD-L1 might be beneficial only in patients with inflamed tumors and particularly in those bearing TLS.
PRL2 Phosphatase Promotes Oncogenic KIT Signaling in Leukemia Cells through Modulating CBL Phosphorylation
Authors: Chen Hongxia , Bai Yunpeng , Kobayashi Michihiro , Xiao Shiyu , Barajas Sergio , Cai Wenjie , Chen Sisi , Miao Jinmin , Nguele Meke Frederick , Yao Chonghua , Yang Yuxia , Strube Katherine , Satchivi Odelia , Sun Jianmin , Rönnstrand Lars , Croop James M. , Boswell H. Scott , Jia Yuzhi , Liu Huiping , Li Loretta S. , Altman Jessica K. , Eklund Elizabeth A. , Sukhanova Madina , Ji Peng , Tong Wei , Band Hamid , Huang Danny T. , Platanias Leonidas C. , Zhang Zhong-Yin , Liu Yan
Published: September 2023

Receptor tyrosine kinase KIT is frequently activated in acute myeloid leukemia (AML). While high PRL2 (PTP4A2) expression is correlated with activation of SCF/KIT signaling in AML, the underlying mechanisms are not fully understood. We discovered that inhibition of PRL2 significantly reduces the burden of oncogenic KIT-driven leukemia and extends leukemic mice survival. PRL2 enhances oncogenic KIT signaling in leukemia cells, promoting their proliferation and survival. We found that PRL2 dephosphorylates CBL at tyrosine 371 and inhibits its activity toward KIT, leading to decreased KIT ubiquitination and enhanced AKT and ERK signaling in leukemia cells.

Implications:

Our studies uncover a novel mechanism that fine-tunes oncogenic KIT signaling in leukemia cells and will likely identify PRL2 as a novel therapeutic target in AML with KIT mutations.
MMP-2 Associates With Incident Heart Failure and Atrial Fibrillation: The ARIC Study
Authors: Buckley Leo F. , Agha Ali M. , Dorbala Pranav , Claggett Brian L. , Yu Bing , Hussain Aliza , Nambi Vijay , Chen Lin Yee , Matsushita Kunihiro , Hoogeveen Ron C. , Ballantyne Christie M. , Shah Amil M.
Published: September 2023

BACKGROUND:

MMP (matrix metalloproteinase)-2 participates in extracellular matrix regulation and may be involved in heart failure (HF), atrial fibrillation (AF), and coronary heart disease.

METHODS:

Among the 4693 ARIC study (Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities) participants (mean age, 75±5 years; 42% women) without prevalent HF, multivariable Cox proportional hazard models were used to estimate associations of plasma MMP-2 levels with incident HF, HF with preserved ejection fraction (≥50%), HF with reduced ejection fraction (<50%), AF, and coronary heart disease. Mediation of the association between MMP-2 and HF was assessed by censoring participants who developed AF or coronary heart disease before HF. Multivariable linear regression models were used to assess associations of MMP-2 with measures of left ventricular and left atrial structure and function.

RESULTS:

Compared with the 3 lower quartiles, the highest MMP-2 quartile associated with greater risk of incident HF overall (adjusted hazard ratio, 1.48 [95% CI, 1.21–1.81]), incident HF with preserved ejection fraction (1.44 [95% CI, 1.07–1.94]), incident heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (1.48 [95% CI, 1.08–2.02]), and incident AF (1.44 [95% CI, 1.18–1.77]) but not incident coronary heart disease (0.97 [95% CI, 0.71–1.34]). Censoring AF attenuated the MMP-2 association with HF with preserved ejection fraction. Higher plasma MMP-2 levels were associated with larger left ventricular end-diastolic volume index, greater left ventricular mass index, higher E/e′ ratio, larger left atrial volume index, and worse left atrial reservoir and contractile strains (all
P
<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS:

Higher plasma MMP-2 levels associate with diastolic dysfunction, left atrial dysfunction, and a higher risk of incident HF and AF. AF is a mediator of MMP-2–associated HF with preserved ejection fraction risk.
On Realizing External Arguments: A Syntactic and Implicature Theory of the Disjointness Effect for Passives in Adult and Child Grammar
Authors: Koring Loes , Reuland Eric , Sangers Nina , Wexler Kenneth
Published: September 2023

We present an account of why disjoint reference effects obtain in verbal but not in adjectival passives. Passives in child language are independently argued to always be adjectival, which allows us to use a natural experiment in child grammar that is not available in the adult grammar: predicting the lack of a disjoint reference effect in even those passives that prima facie seem verbal. We conduct our discussion against the background of the difference between adjectival and verbal passives in general. Our account is based on (grammatical) Implicature Theory. Since the initiator in the semantic representation of adjectival passives stays at a kind level, it cannot introduce a discourse referent, hence cannot trigger a disjointness implicature, unlike the initiator in verbal passives (Gehrke 2013, 2015). We show in two experiments that children’s passives do not exhibit disjoint reference, unlike adults’ verbal passives, even though children have no trouble computing disjointness implicatures elsewhere. Our contribution thus confirms with a novel kind of evidence the syntactic nature of young children’s difficulty with verbal passives. It offers a new perspective on the external argument difference between verbal and adjectival passives based on Reinhart’s (2016) Theta System, while also offering additional evidence for a grammatical, rather than general pragmatic, theory of implicatures.
Incorporating the Social License to Operate into International Investment Law: Taking Stock from the Brazilian Experience
Authors: Monebhurrun Nitish
Published: September 2023

The social license to operate can be broadly defined as the social acceptability of an investor’s business practices by local communities. This article argues that the social license to operate can be incorporated into international investment law by allowing for local communities’ participation. The Brazilian cooperation and facilitation of investments agreements (CFIA) are used as a benchmark to sustain this argument. I explain that the CFIAs make room for the social license to operate at a procedural and at a substantial level. First, local communities can participate in the dispute prevention procedures provided for by CFIA. By this means, they bring a third party’s perspective into the investor-State relationship by voicing its concerns on the investors’ activities. Substantially, this can be supported by the detailed provisions on corporate social responsibility enshrined in the CFIA and which can be invoked by the local communities during the dispute prevention procedure.
Studying U.S. Hispanics: Challenges and Opportunities
Authors: Barberena Laura
Published: September 2023

This article argues for academic researchers to adopt new methodologies when studying the U.S. Hispanic population’s political participation and civic engagement. For decades scholars have used sound but limiting approaches to study this diverse and ever-growing population segment. As the number of Hispanics participating in U.S. electoral politics increases, so does the need to better understand their attitudes and behaviors. Hispanics now make up a significant portion of the population in battleground states with key Electoral College votes—most notably in states outside of the Southwest. Over the years, robust quantitative studies have provided great insight into the Hispanic electorate; qualitative studies have aided in this pursuit, though they are more limited in scope and number. The growth of technology has brought forth new forms of interpersonal communication and news consumption among citizens, U.S. Latinos included. Recent changes call for us to reexamine our current research methodologies and consider adopting a mixed methods approach.
Fear, Risk, and Local Control: Testing the Generality of Ferraro’s Risk Interpretation Framework
Authors: Carter Travis , Melde Chris
Published: September 2023

This study tests whether fear of victimization manifests in the same way across macro level contexts by drawing on Ferraro’s risk interpretation framework. Structural equation modeling techniques were used to test the invariance of the risk interpretation framework across a sample of weighted survey data drawn from three Michigan cities. Results indicated that the framework operated in a theoretically invariant manner across city samples by way of measurement and structural invariance. This demonstrates the framework’s generality by highlighting its ability to consistently explain fear of victimization at a macro level across three city samples. Accordingly, investing in risk communication strategies targeted at improving perceptions at a macro level may be transferable and useful in moderating fear of victimization.
Adult Attitudes and Crime: Understanding the Association Between Latent Adult Attitudes and Offending Across Time
Authors: Bares Kyle J.
Published: September 2023

Research on the transition into adulthood finds that individuals are likely to take on new adult roles which can influence a change in identity. Furthermore, literature on desistance finds that offending tends to decline as individuals transition into adulthood and that this decline can be attributed to changes in internal processes such as developing a new pro-social identity. However, scholarship has yet to conceptualize and measure the development of an adult identity as a latent construct. The current study seeks to establish a new latent time variant measurement I call Latent Adult Attitudes (LAA) and examine LAA’s association with offending. LAA uses a collection of items focused on attitudes towards adult roles to measure a latent construct of adult identity.