bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CID: Categorical Influencer Detection on microtext-based social media
Authors: Quan Thanh-Tho , Mai Duc-Trung , Tran Thanh-Duy
Published: July 2020

Purpose

This paper proposes an approach to identify categorical influencers (i.e. influencers is the person who is active in the targeted categories) in social media channels. Categorical influencers are important for media marketing but to automatically detect them remains a challenge.

Design/methodology/approach

We deployed the emerging deep learning approaches. Precisely, we used word embedding to encode semantic information of words occurring in the common microtext of social media and used variational autoencoder (VAE) to approximate the topic modeling process, through which the active categories of influencers are automatically detected. We developed a system known as Categorical Influencer Detection (CID) to realize those ideas.

Findings

The approach of using VAE to simulate the Latent Dirichlet Allocation (LDA) process can effectively handle the task of topic modeling on the vast dataset of microtext on social media channels.

Research limitations/implications

This work has two major contributions. The first one is the detection of topics on microtexts using deep learning approach. The second is the identification of categorical influencers in social media.

Practical implications

This work can help brands to do digital marketing on social media effectively by approaching appropriate influencers. A real case study is given to illustrate it.

Originality/value

In this paper, we discuss an approach to automatically identify the active categories of influencers by performing topic detection from the microtext related to the influencers in social media channels. To do so, we use deep learning to approximate the topic modeling process of the conventional approaches (such as LDA).
Establishing basic requirements for textile and garment mass production units in the Tanzanian context
Authors: Taifa Ismail W.R. , Lushaju Gervaz G.
Published: July 2020

Purpose

Garment making by the small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) has existed for a long enough time to make the sewing culture a mainstream phenomenon today. It is thus essential to evaluate existing producers, the required information and the key requirements for production. This should consequently forge the way forward. Hence, the purpose of this study was to establish guidelines for the basic requirements as a means of operating garment mass production units in consideration of the unique economic, legal and social environment in Tanzania.

Design/methodology/approach

The study deployed a qualitative approach: interview sessions, questionnaires and observation together with the document review approach. A qualitative approach captured in-depth views, ideas and concepts from participants.

Findings

The study established the requirements for scaling up SMEs into mass production. The requirements include significant investment, well-planned strategies and an implementable industrialisation plan. The country also requires empowered workforces through the existing institutions, international collaborations with foreign investors, implementable policies, among others to excel in this sector.

Research limitations/implications

The identified information together with all factors is leading towards initiating textile-based industries. Thus, information resources concerning garment production in the Tanzanian context are suitable for both individuals and corporations intending to scale up their production.

Originality/value

This is probably among the first studies in Tanzania which explored the basic requirements for setting mass-production units for textile and apparel industries. The uniqueness relies on the involved participants from multi-perspective domains.
Experiences of trastuzumab plus paclitaxel combination therapy in metastatic human epidermal growth factor receptor 2‐positive extramammary Paget’s disease: Four cases and a review
Authors: Sekiguchi Nodoka , Kubota Sae , Noguchi Takuro , Fukushima Toshirou , Kobayashi Takashi , Kanda Shintaro , Koizumi Tomonobu , Miyake Tomomi , Shirai Takushi , Okuyama Ryuhei
Published: July 2020

Tumor cells in extramammary Paget’s disease sometimes overexpress human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2). Several case reports indicated successful response to HER2 inhibitor in patients with HER2‐positive metastatic extramammary Paget’s disease. However, these were single‐case reports, and most cases were evaluated only by immunohistochemistry and treated with HER2 inhibitor monotherapy. Here, we report cases of HER2‐positive metastatic extramammary Paget’s disease identified by both immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization, and the patients were treated with HER2 inhibitor (trastuzumab) and paclitaxel combination chemotherapy. Partial response was observed in one case. The case was positive on both immunohistochemistry (3+) and in situ hybridization (HER2/chromosome 17 centromere, ≥2.0). Our observations suggest that HER2 should be checked in patients with advanced and/or metastatic extramammary Paget’s disease, and that therapy with HER2 blockers should be considered as an option for treatment of HER2‐positive extramammary Paget’s disease, especially in cases positive for both HER2 gene amplification and overexpression.
A computer adaptive measure of reading motivation
Authors: Davis Marcia H. , Wang Wenhao , Kingston Neal M. , Hock Michael , Tonks Stephen M. , Tiemann Gail
Published: July 2020

Background

The importance of reading motivation has led to the development of a large number of self‐report reading motivation measures; however, there is still a need for a usable measure of adolescent reading motivation that captures a large number of theoretically and empirically distinct constructs.

Methods

The current paper details the development and validation of a computer adapted measure of reading motivation, the Adaptive Reading Motivation Measure (ARMM), which assesses constructs of curiosity, involvement, interest, value, challenge, grades, recognition, competition, avoidance, self‐efficacy, perceived difficulty, preference for autonomy, social motivation, prosocial goals and antisocial goals for reading.

Results

Model fit indicated that hierarchical multidimensional models fit better than models without a hierarchical structure. The validation results indicate that females scored higher than men and younger students scored higher than older students on most ARMM scores when scores were derived using a higher order model. In addition, these scores correlated significantly to reading behaviour, engagement and achievement and indicated high reliability.

Conclusions

The findings suggest that the ARMM would be a valid measure to assess a large number of reading motivation constructs in a short period of time within a classroom setting.
Emergency department utilisation by vulnerable paediatric populations during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Cheek John A , Craig Simon S , West Adam , Lewena Stuart , Hiscock Harriet
Published: July 2020

Objective

To determine if changes to community‐based services have effected paediatric ED attendances for mental health issues and neonates during the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Methods

Analysis of total presentations, presentations with a mental health diagnoses and presentation of neonates during the early stages of the pandemic compared with the previous year for four Victorian hospitals.

Results

There was a 47.2% decrease in total presentations compared with 2019, with a 35% increase in mental health diagnoses and a 2% increase in neonatal presentations.

Conclusion

Vulnerable paediatric patients are seeking care elsewhere during the pandemic because of the closure of community services.
Functional 3DVR imaging of abdominal wall hernias
Authors: Rodriguez‐Acevedo Omar , Elstner Kristen , Read John W , Jacombs Anita , Ibrahim Nabeel
Published: July 2020

The purpose of this illustrative pictorial series is to demonstrate the value of an image technique known as 3D Volume Rendering (3DVR) for the pre‐operative visualization and assessment of complex abdominal hernias. A small subset of complex abdominal hernia cases were selected from our early clinical experience with 3DVR to illustrate the value of visualizing standard 2D computed tomography (CT) data from a 3D perspective. For the surgeon, pre‐operative 3DVR can assist the holistic understanding of abdominal hernias and any associated fascial defects, unsuspected additional hernias, dysfunctional abdominal wall bulges/eventrations, muscle denervations or atrophic changes, mesh placements, other post‐surgical changes such as scarring, and relevant skeletal changes. For the patient, 3DVR provides an easily grasped understanding of the relevant anatomy, the nature of the problem at hand, and the scale of the surgical challenge. Images of this kind can help the surgeon to more effectively manage unrealistic patient expectations or explain dysfunctional bulges that do not require surgery. A functional 3DVR approach to pre‐operative imaging can provide the surgeon with a more complete understanding of any hernia defect and the relevant background status of the abdominal wall in general. This can be useful in planning a more effective operative approach and help to improve surgical outcomes.
Antibiotics impair immune checkpoint inhibitor effectiveness in Hispanic patients with non‐small cell lung cancer (AB‐CLICaP)
Authors: Ruiz‐Patiño Alejandro , Barrón Feliciano , Cardona Andrés F. , Corrales Luis , Mas Luis , Martín Claudio , Zatarain‐Barrón Zyanya L. , Recondo Gonzalo , Ricaurte Luisa , Rojas Leonardo , Archila Pilar , Rodríguez July , Sotelo Carolina , Viola Lucia , Vargas Carlos , Carranza Hernán , Otero Jorge , Pino Luis E. , Rolfo Christian , Rosell Rafael , Arrieta Oscar ,   The CLICaP
Published: July 2020

Background

The intestinal microbiota is an important factor in modulating immune‐mediated tumor cell destruction. Alterations in the microbiome composition have been linked to reduced efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapies. Therefore, antibiotic treatment (ATB), which modifies the diversity of the gut bacteria populations, could lead to a reduced efficacy of ICI treatments.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study. Patients with advanced non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) treated with anti‐programmed cell death ligand‐1 (PD‐L1) alone, or in combination in three different countries in Latin America were included. After identification, patients were placed into three groups: Non‐ATB exposed (no‐ATB), exposed within 30 days of the first dose of ICI (pre‐ICI ATB) and patients receiving ATB concomitantly with ICI (ICI‐ATB). Progression‐free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS) and response rates to treatment with ICI were assessed.

Results

A total of 140 patients were included, of which 32 patients (23%) received ATB treatment. The most common ATB types were fluoroquinolones and B‐lactams. No differences in survival according to antibiotic type were identified. Median OS in patients not exposed to ATB was 40.6 months (95% CI: 32–67.7), compared with 20.3 months (95% CI: 12.1‐non‐reached [NR]) for patients with pre‐ICI ATB treatment and 24.7 months (95% CI: 13‐NR) for patients treated with ATB concomitantly with ICI. There were no significant differences in terms of PFS, or response rates across all treatment groups.

Conclusions

Antibiotic treatment was associated with reduced OS in Hispanic patients with NSCLC treated with ICIs.
International Collaboration and New Research Evidence on Nanda International Terminology
Authors: Rabelo‐Silva Eneida Rejane , Monteiro Mantovani Vanessa , López Pedraza Leticia , Cardoso Patrícia Cristina , Takao Lopes Camila , Herdman Tracy Heather
Published: July 2020

OBJECTIVES

To discuss priorities and possibilities for promoting international collaboration and new research evidence on NANDA International, Inc. (NANDA‐I).

METHODS

Theoretical reflection article based on the literature and the authors’ opinions on the subject matter, carried out by six research nurses.

CONCLUSIONS

International research collaboration for NANDA‐I allows the improvement of research production in an actual clinical setting, especially with multicenter and validation studies, conducted by researchers from different countries. This provides for improved understanding of patients’ experiences and may help to produce robust scientific evidence.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING KNOWLEDGE

The generation of new evidence may lead to an increase in NANDA‐I visibility and in nurses’ understanding of its meaning for clinical practice and for the formulation of diagnostic hypotheses.
To launder or not to launder: are there positive effects for the economies of countries who launder money?
Authors: Buchanan June , Shen Yun
Published: July 2020

This paper empirically examines the impact of corporate money laundering/gambling activities on firms’ financial performance. We specifically address whether Australian firms associated with money laundering suffer any short‐ or long‐term financial performance effects following the public announcement of money laundering activities. Our findings suggest that Australian firms that engage in money laundering/gambling activities perform significantly better than firms in other countries after such announcements.
Adjusting for Confounding with Text Matching
Authors: Roberts Margaret E. , Stewart Brandon M. , Nielsen Richard A.
Published: July 2020

We identify situations in which conditioning on text can address confounding in observational studies. We argue that a matching approach is particularly well‐suited to this task, but existing matching methods are ill‐equipped to handle high‐dimensional text data. Our proposed solution is to estimate a low‐dimensional summary of the text and condition on this summary via matching. We propose a method of text matching, topical inverse regression matching, that allows the analyst to match both on the topical content of confounding documents and the probability that each of these documents is treated. We validate our approach and illustrate the importance of conditioning on text to address confounding with two applications: the effect of perceptions of author gender on citation counts in the international relations literature and the effects of censorship on Chinese social media users.
Glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor is expressed in human and rodent testis
Authors: Caltabiano Rosario , Condorelli Daniele , Panza Salvatore , Boitani Carla , Musso Nicolò , Ježek Davor , Memeo Lorenzo , Colarossi Lorenzo , Rago Vittoria , Mularoni Valentina , Spadola Saveria , Castiglione Roberto , Santoro Marta , Aquila Saveria , D'Agata Rosario
Published: July 2020

Background

The incretin hormone glucagon‐like peptide‐l (GLP‐1) is an important regulator of post‐prandial insulin secretion, acting through a G protein‐coupled cell surface receptor (GLP‐1R). In addition to its expression in pancreatic β‐cells, several studies suggested that GLP‐1R is located in extra‐pancreatic tissues.

Objectives

In this study, we examined for the first time the testicular distribution of the GLP‐1R, both in normal human and neoplastic testicular tissues as well as in rodent testis and rodent testicular cell lines.

Methods and Methods

The GLP‐1R distribution in testicular section has been evaluated by immunohistochemistry, the specificity of IHC was validated by demonstrating a positive staining for GLP‐1RmRNA by RISH technology. While GLP‐1R expression in terms of protein was detected by western blot analysis, Moreover, mRNA levels were determined in human testis, in rodent Leydig, and Sertoli cell lines.

Results

Using immunohistochemistrya specific staining for GLP‐1R was detected in Leydig cells. The specificity of IHC was validated by demonstrating a positive staining for GLP‐1RmRNA only in these cell types. Species differences in the GLP‐1R expression between humans and rodents were observed. Interestingly, a decreased expression of the receptor in rodent tumor Leydig cell line and an absence in human Leydig tumor samples was detected.

Discussion

It may be hypothesized that GLP‐1R acts like an oncosuppressor in Leydig tumors. A role in regulation of hormone secretion by GLP‐1 has been shown in other endocrine cells, therefore we hypothesized that GLP‐1R is able to modulate somehow the Leydig cell function.

Conclusion

In our findings, a careful evaluation of human testicular tissues and rodent testis revealed Leydig cells as a potential target for GLP‐1. Collectively, an effect of GLP‐1R in Leydig cell function may be presumed although future studies are needed to ascertain the GLP‐1R’s role both in normal and tumor Leydig cells.
Effects of a Community‐Based Multicomponent Positive Psychology Intervention on Mental Health of Rural Adults in Ghana
Authors: Appiah Richard , Wilson‐Fadiji Angelina , Schutte Lusilda , Wissing Marié P.
Published: July 2020

Background

There is growing evidence that positive psychology interventions (PPIs) enhance positive mental health and lead to a decrease in symptoms of psychopathology. This study examines the effectiveness of a 10‐week multicomponent PPI (the Inspired Life Program; ILP) in promoting positive mental health and reducing symptoms of depression and negative affect in a sample of rural poor adults in Ghana.

Methods

Using a quasi‐randomized controlled trial design, participants from four rural poor communities were randomly allocated to intervention (n = 40) or control (n = 42) conditions. The intervention group participated in the 10‐week ILP. Both groups completed a battery of mental health measures, including the Mental Health Continuum‐Short Form, at pre‐intervention, immediately after the intervention, and at 3 months follow‐up. Hierarchical linear modeling was applied to evaluate whether the intervention was effective.

Results

There was a greater improvement in positive mental health, with a marked reduction in symptoms of depression in the intervention group compared to the control group, immediately and 3 months after the intervention. There were also larger increases in the proportion of flourishers in the intervention group compared to the control group, immediately and three months after the intervention.

Conclusions

The observed effects of the ILP intervention program suggest that group‐based PPIs can promote positive mental health and buffer against psychopathology among people living in rural poor communities in sub‐Saharan Africa.
Characteristics and roles of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2-specific antibodies in patients with different severities of coronavirus 19
Authors: Huang Z , Chen H , Xue M , Huang H , Zheng P , Luo W , Liang X , Sun B , Zhong N
Published: July 2020

The diagnosis of coronavirus 19 (COVID-19) relies mainly upon viral nucleic acid detection, but false negatives can lead to missed diagnosis and misdiagnosis; severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2)-specific antibody detection is convenient, safe and highly sensitive. Immunoglobulin (Ig)M and IgG are commonly used to serologically diagnose COVID-19; however, the role of IgA is not well known. We aimed to quantify the levels of SARS-CoV-2-specific IgM, IgA and IgG antibodies, identify changes in them based on COVID-19 severity, and establish the significance of combined antibody detection. COVID-19 patients, divided into a severe and critical group and a moderate group, and non-COVID-19 patients with respiratory disease were included in this study. A chemiluminescence method was used to detect the levels of SARS-CoV-2-specific IgM, IgA and IgG in the blood samples from the three groups. Epidemiological characteristics, symptoms, blood test results and other data were recorded for all patients. Compared to the traditional IgM–IgG combined antibodies, IgA–IgG combined antibodies are more effective for diagnosing COVID-19. During the disease process, IgA appeared first and disappeared last. All three antibodies had significantly higher levels in COVID-19 patients than in non-COVID-19 patients. IgA and IgG were also higher for severe and critical disease than for moderate disease. All antibodies were at or near low levels at the time of tracheal extubation in critical patients. Detection of SARS-CoV-2-specific combined IgA–IgG antibodies is advantageous in diagnosing COVID-19. IgA detection is suitable during early and late stages of the disease. IgA and IgG levels correspond to disease severity.
Enhancing synergies between action on ocean acidification and the post‐2020 global biodiversity framework
Authors: Harrould‐Kolieb Ellycia
Published: July 2020

Ocean acidification is a substantial emergent threat to marine biodiversity and the goods and services it provides. Although efforts to address ocean acidification have been taken under the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), a far greater potential to do so exists by finding synergies between biodiversity conservation efforts and ocean acidification action. The ongoing process to develop a post‐2020 global biodiversity framework offers an opportunity to ensure that opportunities for addressing ocean acidification are capitalized on and not overlooked. I argue that to achieve this, the following are needed: a technical integration of ocean acidification across the targets to be included in the post‐2020 framework and a reframing of the issue as a biodiversity problem so as to highlight the synergies between existing biodiversity work and action needed to address ocean acidification. Given that the post‐2020 framework is intended to establish the global biodiversity agenda for the coming decades, integration of ocean acidification will set a precedent for the other biodiversity‐related conventions and encourage greater uptake of the issue across the wider international community. My approach is of direct relevance to those participating in the negotiations, both from a CBD Party perspective and the perspective of those advocating for a strong outcome to protect marine biodiversity and marine socioecological systems. My discussion of framing is relevant to those working beyond the CBD within other biodiversity‐related conventions in which goals to address ocean acidification are sorely lacking.
Ligand‐targeted polymerase chain reaction for the detection of folate receptor‐positive circulating tumour cells as a potential diagnostic biomarker for pancreatic cancer
Authors: Cheng Hao , He Wei , Yang Jun , Ye Qing , Cheng Lu , Pan Yiming , Mao Liang , Chu Xuehui , Lu Chenglin , Li Gang , Qiu Yudong , He Jian
Published: July 2020

Objectives

To detect folate receptor (FR)‐positive circulating tumour cells (FR+ CTCs) by using ligand‐targeted polymerase chain reaction (LT‐PCR) in periampullary cancer patients and to investigate the diagnostic value of FR+ CTCs in distinguishing pancreatic cancer (PC) from benign pancreatic disease.

Materials and Methods

CTCs were enriched from 3 mL of peripheral blood and portal vein blood by immunomagnetic depletion of leucocytes and were then detected by LT‐PCR. The diagnostic performance of FR+ CTCs in PC was investigated by receiver‐operating characteristic curve analysis.

Results

In total, 57 consecutive patients, including 46 patients with PC, five patients with non‐pancreatic periampullary cancer (non‐PC) and six patients with benign pancreatic diseases, were enrolled. FR+ CTC levels were significantly higher in patients with malignant diseases (PC and non‐PC) than in patients with benign pancreatic diseases (P < .01). There was no notable difference in CTC levels between patients with PC and those with non‐PC (P > .05). The combination of FR+ CTCs with carbohydrate antigen 19‐9 (CA19‐9) had better diagnostic efficiency than each of these two markers alone, with high sensitivity (97.8%) and specificity (83.3%).

Conclusions

LT‐PCR is feasible and reliable for detecting FR+ CTCs in patients with periampullary cancer. FR+ CTCs, especially when used in combination with CA19‐9, have potential as a biomarker for the diagnosis of PC.
MAM domain containing 2 is a potential breast cancer biomarker that exhibits tumour‐suppressive activity
Authors: Lee Hyeonhee , Park Bum‐Chan , Soon Kang Jong , Cheon Yeongmi , Lee Soojin , Jae Maeng Pil
Published: July 2020

Objectives

The aim of this study was to discover new potential biomarkers of breast cancer and investigate their cellular functions.

Materials and methods

We analysed the gene expression profiles of matched pairs of breast tumour and normal tissues from 24 breast cancer patients. Tetracycline‐inducible MAMDC2 expression system was established and used to evaluate cell proliferation in vitro and in vivo. MAMDC2‐mediated signalling was determined using immunoblot analysis.

Results

We identified MAMDC2 as a down‐regulated gene showing significant prognostic capability. Overexpression of MAMDC2 or treatment with MAMDC2‐containing culture medium significantly inhibited the cell proliferation of T‐47D cells. Furthermore, MAMDC2 expression reduced in vivo growth of T‐47D xenograft tumours. MAMDC2 may exert its growth‐inhibitory functions by attenuating the MAPK signalling pathway.

Conclusion

We report that MAMDC2 has a tumour‐suppressive role and, as a secretory protein, it might be useful as a biomarker for breast cancer treatment.
Follow‐up after hemodynamically not tolerated ventricular tachycardia in patients with midrange reduced to normal ejection fraction: A retrospective single‐centre case series
Authors: Groeneveld Sanne A. , Blom Lennart J. , van der Heijden Jeroen F. , Loh Peter , Hassink Rutger J.
Published: July 2020

Introduction

The benefit of implantable cardioverter‐defibrillator (ICD) implantation in patients with hemodynamically not tolerated ventricular tachycardia (VT) and midrange reduced to normal ejection fraction (LVEF >35%) is currently unclear. The purpose of this study was to investigate follow‐up after hemodynamically not tolerated VT in patients with LVEF >35%. In addition, we aimed to find possible predictive factors to identify who will benefit from ICD implantation.

Methods

In a retrospective single‐centre case series, all patients with hemodynamically not tolerated VT and LVEF >35% that underwent electrophysiological study (EPS) and/or radiofrequency VT ablation were included.

Results

Forty‐two patients (5 women, median age 68 years) with hemodynamically not tolerated VT and LVEF >35% underwent EPS. VT ablation was performed in thirty‐one patients, which was considered successful in twenty‐three patients. Nineteen patients had an ICD at discharge while 23 patients were discharged without an ICD. The severity of hemodynamic compromise, LVEF and ablation success played an important role in the decision‐making for ICD implantation. Six patients (14.3%) had recurrence of VT, all hemodynamically tolerated.

Conclusions

In this small case series, patients with hemodynamically not tolerated VT and LVEF >35% had a relatively low recurrence rate and all recurrences were nonfatal. Based on our results, we hypothesize that the severity of hemodynamic compromise, LVEF and ablation success might modify the risk for VA recurrence. A prospective study to determine the prognostic value of these factors in patients with hemodynamically not tolerated VT and LVEF >35% is necessary.
DO SUPPLY‐SIDE FORCES EXPLAIN GEOGRAPHIC VARIATION IN HEALTH CARE USE?
Authors: Callison Kevin , Kaestner Robert , Ward Jason
Published: July 2020

Regional variation in health care utilization has been well‐documented, yet uncertainty persists about whether this variation is primarily the result of supply‐side or demand‐side forces. We provide new evidence on this issue by examining changes in health care use for the near‐elderly as they transition from being uninsured into Medicare. Results support a causal, supply‐side explanation of regional variation. Estimates indicate that gaining Medicare coverage in above‐median spending regions increases the probability of at least one hospital visit by 40% and the probability of having more than five doctor visits by 26% relative to similar individuals in below‐median spending regions. (JEL D43, H42, H51, I1, I11, I13)
Lenalidomide as maintenance treatment for patients with multiple myeloma after autologous stem cell transplantation: A pharmaco‐economic assessment
Authors: Uyl‐de Groot Carin A. , Ramsden Rachel , Lee Dawn , Boersma Janneke , Zweegman Sonja , Dhanasiri Sujith
Published: July 2020

Objective

Autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) has improved progression‐free survival (PFS) and overall survival in eligible patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (NDMM); however, relapse occurs. Maintenance therapy with lenalidomide (Len‐Mt) extends survival and delays relapse and the subsequent initiation of costly second‐line regimens. Here, we report the cost‐effectiveness of Len‐Mt following ASCT from a Dutch healthcare service perspective.

Methods

A partitioned survival model was developed to assess the lifetime costs and benefits for patients with NDMM. Efficacy was taken from a pooled meta‐analysis of clinical trial data. Costs and subsequent therapy data were taken from sources appropriate for the Dutch market.

Results

Lenalidomide produced a quality‐adjusted life year gain of 2.46 and a life year gain of 2.79 vs no maintenance treatment. The cost of lenalidomide was partially offset by savings of EUR 77 462 in subsequent treatment costs. The incremental cost‐effectiveness ratio of Len‐Mt vs no maintenance treatment was EUR 30 143. Key model drivers included subsequent therapies, dosing schedule, and time horizon.

Conclusion

Lenalidomide is cost‐effective after ASCT vs no maintenance therapy in the Netherlands. By extending PFS, lenalidomide delays the cost burdens associated with relapse and subsequent treatment lines.
Seasonal changes of soil carbon fractions and enzyme activities in response to winter cover crops under long‐term rotation and tillage systems
Authors: Singh Jasdeep , Kumar Sandeep
Published: July 2020

Quantifying changes in soil biochemical properties is important in understanding the response to soil management practices. Our objectives were to evaluate the single and combined effects of three different crop rotations (maize (Zea mays)‐soybean (Glycine max) (2 years), maize‐soybean‐oat (Avena sativa) (3 years), maize‐soybean‐oat‐winter wheat (Triticum aestivum) (4 years)), and two winter cover‐type (cover crop and no cover crop) managements under long‐term conventional‐till (CT) and no‐till (NT) systems on water‐extractable carbon and nitrogen fractions, microbial biomass carbon (MBC) and enzymatic activities. The experimental site under silty clay loam in southeastern South Dakota was sampled before planting in early spring, after planting in early summer, and during the maize grain‐filling stage in early autumn of 2017, from the surface 0–7.5‐cm depth in 2017. In general, the cover crops had 9, 17 and 19% higher geometric mean of enzyme activities than the no‐cover‐crop plots at pre‐planting, after planting and the grain‐filling stage of maize, respectively. Although there were not many differences between “NT vs. CT” and “2‐year vs. 3‐year vs. 4‐year rotation” treatments, additive effects between “tillage and cover crops” and “rotation and cover crops” were observed. The MBC and β‐glucosidase activity were 31 and 54% higher, respectively, with cover crop vs. no cover crop under 4‐year rotation after planting of maize. Similarly, significant interactions between “cover crop and tillage” for hot water‐extractable nitrogen and urease activity at pre‐planting, and β‐D‐glucosidase after planting of maize, were observed. At the grain‐filling stage, the hot water‐extractable contents were significantly greater under cover crop as compared to the no‐cover‐crop plots. Furthermore, this study also concluded that seasonal fluctuations are important for understanding the management impacts on soil carbon fractions and biochemical properties.

Highlights

Soil microbial properties responded differently to tillage, rotation and cover crops during the maize growing season.

Residues produced by cover crops during winter fallow impacted soil functioning and interacted with other management factors (rotation and tillage system).

Rotation impacted the carbon availability after planting, whereas tillage affected the enzyme activities.

Winter cover crops influenced labile soil organic matter (SOM) and enzymatic properties after 4 years.
The evolution of metapopulation dynamics and the number of stem cells in intestinal crypts and other tissue structures in multicellular bodies
Authors: Birtwell David , Luebeck Georg , Maley Carlo C.
Published: July 2020

Carcinogenesis is a process of somatic evolution. Previous models of stem and transient amplifying cells in epithelial proliferating units like colonic crypts showed that intermediate numbers of stem cells in a crypt should optimally prevent progression to cancer. If a stem cell population is too small, it is easy for a mutator mutation to drift to fixation. If it is too large, it is easy for selection to drive cell fitness enhancing carcinogenic mutations to fixation. Here, we show that a multiscale microsimulation, that captures both within‐crypt and between‐crypt evolutionary dynamics, leads to a different conclusion. Epithelial tissues are metapopulations of crypts. We measured time to initiation of a neoplasm, implemented as inactivation of both alleles of a tumor suppressor gene. In our model, time to initiation is dependent on the spread of mutator clones in the crypts. The proportion of selectively beneficial and deleterious mutations in somatic cells is unknown and so was explored with a parameter. When the majority of non‐neutral mutations are deleterious, the fitness of mutator clones tends to decline. When crypts are maintained by few stem cells, intercrypt competition tends to remove crypts with fixed mutators. When there are many stem cells within a crypt, there is virtually no crypt turnover, but mutator clones are suppressed by within‐crypt competition. If the majority of non‐neutral mutations are beneficial to the clone, then these results are reversed and intermediate‐sized crypts provide the most protection against initiation. These results highlight the need to understand the dynamics of turnover and the mechanisms that control homeostasis, both at the level of stem cells within proliferative units and at the tissue level of competing proliferative units. Determining the distribution of fitness effects of somatic mutations will also be crucial to understanding the dynamics of tumor initiation and progression.
Innate chemical, but not visual, threat cues have been co‐opted as unconditioned stimulus for social fear learning in zebrafish
Authors: Pinho Julia S. , Castilho Marisa , Sollari Joao S. , Oliveira Rui F.
Published: July 2020

Animals can use social information to detect threat in the environment. In particular, social learning allows animals to learn about dangers without incurring in the costs of trial‐and‐error learning. In zebrafish, both chemical and visual social cues elicit an innate alarm response, which consists of erratic movement followed by freezing behavior. Injured zebrafish release an alarm substance from their skin that elicits the alarm response. Similarly, the sight of conspecifics displaying the alarm response can also elicit the expression of this response in observers. In this study, we investigated if these social cues of danger can also be used by zebrafish as unconditioned stimulus (US) in learning. We found that only the chemical cue was effective in the social fear conditioning. We suggest that this differential efficacy of social cues results from the fact that the alarm cue is a more reliable indicator of threat, than the sight of an alarmed conspecific. Therefore, although multiple social cues may elicit innate responses not all have been evolutionarily co‐opted to act as US in associative learning. Furthermore, the use of the expression of the immediate early genes as markers of neuronal activity showed that chemical social fear conditioning is paralleled by a differential activation of the olfactory bulbs and by a different pattern of functional connectivity across brain regions involved in olfactory processing.
Why geographic data science is not a science
Authors: Scheider Simon , Nyamsuren Enkhbold , Kruiger Han , Xu Haiqi
Published: July 2020

“Data Science” has taken many disciplines by storm. And for a good reason: New forms and unseen quantities of data enter nearly every scientific field, substantially changing the ways how scientists do science, and potentially allowing them to answer old questions or to pose them in novel ways. The recent success of Data Science is also reflected in corresponding study programs and curricula and the emergence of specialized branches, such as Geographic Data Science (GDS). Some researchers, therefore, claim that Data Science and GDS should be treated as autonomous scientific disciplines, while others fear that it sells nothing but old wine in new bottles. In an attempt to sober the discussion, we investigate GDS and Data Science from the perspective of meta‐science. We provide arguments why today's GDS and Data Science should be seen as an interdisciplinary community of practice of data‐driven scientists, rather than a scientific discipline. We also discuss what is missing for GDS and Data Science to become genuine scientific disciplines.
Impact of early rapid weight gain on odds for overweight at one year differs between breastfed and formula‐fed infants
Authors: Trabulsi Jillian C. , Smethers Alissa D. , Eosso Jessica R. , Papas Mia A. , Stallings Virginia A. , Mennella Julie A.
Published: July 2020

Background

Early rapid weight gain (RWG) increases, whereas longer durations of breastfeeding decreases, odds for later obesity.

Objectives

To determine the independent and interactive effects of early weight gain and diet on infant weight status trajectories and odds for overweight at 1 year.

Methods

We conducted secondary analysis on data from two longitudinal trials with repeated anthropometric measures. One trial consisted of predominantly or exclusively breastfed (BF, n = 97) infants, whereas the other consisted of exclusively formula‐fed (FF, n = 113) infants. Weight‐for‐length z‐score (WLZ) change from 0.5 to 4.5 months was used to categorize early weight gain as slow (<−0.67; SWG), normal (−0.67 to 0.67; NWG) or rapid (>0.67; RWG). Linear‐mixed effects models were fit to examine the independent effects and interaction of early diet (BF, FF) and weight gain (SWG, NWG, RWG) groups on WLZ trajectories; logistic regression was used to assess odds for overweight at 1 year.

Results

While similar percentages (41%) of BF and FF infants experienced RWG, we found a significant diet × early weight gain group interaction (P < .001) on weight status. At 1 year, the WLZ of FF infants with RWG (1.57 ± 0.99) was twice that of BF infants with RWG (0.83 ± 0.92). Using BF infants with NWG as the reference group, FF infants with RWG had increased odds [OR: 25.3 (95% CI: 3.21, 199.7)] for overweight at 1 year, whereas BF infants with RWG did not.

Conclusions

Early diet interacts with early weight gain and influences weight status trajectories and overweight risk at 1 year.
Influenza A (H3) illness and viral aerosol shedding from symptomatic naturally infected and experimentally infected cases
Authors: Bueno de Mesquita Paul Jacob , Nguyen‐Van‐Tam Jonathan , Killingley Ben , Enstone Joanne , Lambkin‐Williams Robert , Gilbert Anthony S. , Mann Alexander , Forni John , Yan Jing , Pantelic Jovan , Grantham Michael L. , Milton Donald K.
Published: July 2020

Background

It has long been known that nasal inoculation with influenza A virus produces asymptomatic to febrile infections. Uncertainty persists about whether these infections are sufficiently similar to natural infections for studying human‐to‐human transmission.

Methods

We compared influenza A viral aerosol shedding from volunteers nasally inoculated with A/Wisconsin/2005 (H3N2) and college community adults naturally infected with influenza A/H3N2 (2012‐2013), selected for influenza‐like illness with objectively measured fever or a positive Quidel QuickVue A&B test. Propensity scores were used to control for differences in symptom presentation observed between experimentally and naturally infected groups.

Results

Eleven (28%) experimental and 71 (86%) natural cases shed into fine particle aerosols (P < .001). The geometric mean (geometric standard deviation) for viral positive fine aerosol samples from experimental and natural cases was 5.1E + 3 (4.72) and 3.9E + 4 (15.12) RNA copies/half hour, respectively. The 95th percentile shedding rate was 2.4 log10 greater for naturally infected cases (1.4E + 07 vs 7.4E + 04). Certain influenza‐like illness‐related symptoms were associated with viral aerosol shedding. The almost complete lack of symptom severity distributional overlap between groups did not support propensity score–adjusted shedding comparisons.

Conclusions

Due to selection bias, the natural and experimental infections had limited symptom severity distributional overlap precluding valid, propensity score–adjusted comparison. Relative to the symptomatic naturally infected cases, where high aerosol shedders were found, experimental cases did not produce high aerosol shedders. Studying the frequency of aerosol shedding at the highest observed levels in natural infections without selection on symptoms or fever would support helpful comparisons.
The urban Smooth‐coated otters Lutrogale perspicillata of Singapore: a review of the reasons for success
Authors: Khoo M. D. Y. , Lee B. P. Y.‐H.
Published: July 2020

Urbanization has a major impact on biodiversity, especially on carnivores. Otters are particularly sensitive to urbanization as it increases their risk of being persecuted and threatens the key requirements essential for their survival. Because of this, many otter species have suffered population declines throughout the world. However, in Singapore, the Smooth‐coated otter Lutrogale perspicillata has made a tremendous rebound after an absence of three decades. The species is now widely distributed across the river systems and reservoirs, and can even be found in the highly urban city centre. This return of the Smooth‐coated otters to Singapore was so successful that it was touted by many as a conservation success and role model for otters in the city. With more populations of otters elsewhere in the world threatened by the effects of urbanization, lessons can be drawn from the successful return of otters to Singapore and applied to these other countries. These lessons include the importance of laws, social factors and public–private partnerships in facilitating the return of a top carnivore to the city.
Rapid quantification of coliforms in ready‐to‐eat foods using lateral‐flow immunochromatographic assay
Authors: Tominaga Tatsuya
Published: July 2020

The degree of coliform contamination in pastries was estimated based on culturing times until positive results were obtained with the lateral‐flow immunochromatographic assay (LFIA). Coliform genera Citrobacter, Cronobacter, Enterobacter, Klebsiella, Kluyvera, Pantoea, Raoultella, and Serratia were detected in spoiled pastries, as established with next‐generation sequencing. A lateral‐flow test strip was constructed using antibodies recognizing the above genera. The culture times required for positive detection with LFIA were 0, 3, 6, and 9 hr at initial inoculation concentrations of 3.8, 2.8, 1.8, and 0.8 log10 (cfu/ml), respectively. In pastries contaminated with >5.0, 3.0–5.0, 2.0–3.0 log10 (cfu/g) coliform bacteria, samples became LFIA‐positive from 3, 6, and 9 hr culture, respectively. LFIA showed negative for pastries with <2.0 log10 (cfu/g) coliform contamination. The quantitative category of initial coliform content before culture was predictable with 87% accuracy. This novel method can be applied to monitor food safety of other ready‐to‐eat consumables.
Left/right difference in the course and division of the pulmonary arterial branches in the lung upper lobe: A study using human embryos and early fetuses
Authors: Jin Zhe Wu , Hayashi Shogo , Murakami Gen , Wilting Jörg , Rodríguez‐Vázquez José Francisco , Abe Shinichi
Published: July 2020

Although left/right differences in a configuration of the pulmonary artery (PA) and its branches are well known, there is little information as to when and how such differences are established. Examination of serial sagittal sections of 25 embryos and fetuses at 6–7 weeks of gestation demonstrated that, at O’Rahilly stages 18–20, the right earliest first branch of PA originated in the anterior side of the upper lobar bronchus and overlay the upper bronchi, in contrast to the left branch which was located posteriorly and constricted medially by the upper posterior bronchus B1 + 2b. The right earliest branch was most likely to correspond to the future superior trunk, while the left branch might be a lingual artery. At stages 21–23, the upper posterior parenchyma was still underdeveloped in the left lung, since the ductus arteriosus and the left common cardinal vein seemed to make the left upper thoracic cavity narrow. Conversely, in the right lung, the thick S2 seemed to require a double arterial supply from both the superior and inferior arterial trunks. On the left, A3 originated at the lung apex and took a long descending course along the lung anterior surface. This high position of A3 might soon be corrected by an increased volume of S3. Overall, in contrast to the lower and middle lobes, early‐developed branches of the PA did not accompany upper segmental and subsegmental bronchi. A mechanism “differential growth” seemed to explain how to correct the fetal morphology to provide the adult morphology with variations.
Producing 3D printed high‐fidelity retroperitoneal models from in vivo patient data: The Oxford Method
Authors: Williams Matthew A. , Smillie Robert W. , Richard Michael , Cosker Thomas D. A.
Published: July 2020

Macroscopic anatomy has traditionally been taught using cadaveric material, lectures and a variable amount of additional resources such as online modules. Anatomical models have also been used to assist in teaching. Of these, traditional plastic models have been shown to be effective educational tools, yet have significant drawbacks such as a lack of anatomical detail and texturisation. Three‐dimensional (3D) printed models stand to solve these problems and widen access to high‐quality anatomical teaching. This paper outlines the use of 3D multi‐planar imaging (CT and MRI) as a framework to develop an accurate model of the retroperitoneum. CT and MRI scans were used to construct a virtual 3D model of the retroperitoneum. This was printed locally as a full‐size colour model for use in medical education. We give a complete account of the processes and software used. This study is amongst the first of a series in which we will document the newly formed Oxford Library of Anatomy. This series will provide the methodology for the production of models from CT and MRI scans, and the Oxford Library of Anatomy will provide a complete series of some of the most complex anatomical areas and ones which degrade quickly when a real cadaver is being used. In our own internal experience, the models are highly accurate, reproducible and durable, as compared to prosected specimens. We hope they will form an important adjunct in the teaching of the subject.