bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Governance and administration in Sri Lanka: trends, tensions, and prospects
Authors: Ramasamy Ramesh
Published: October 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the status of governance and administration in Sri Lanka in light of current crises and the impact on the quality of governance.

Design/methodology/approach

The mixed method approach is employed to explore the problem based on secondary data and results from two major surveys.

Findings

This paper shows political and administrative commitment and quality of governance are two basic ingredients for rapid development and fighting administrative malpractices. Sri Lanka’s system of governance is a mixture of paternalism and alliance developed through political dynasty, kinship, ethnicity, caste, religion, and elitism.

Originality/value

This study fills the research gap as few studies have examined the recent crises of Sri Lanka’s governance and the impacts on governance quality.

Policy implications

Only by implementing administrative and policy reforms will not improve governance quality in the absence of strong political and bureaucratic commitment. Moreover, global anti-corruption measures are unlikely to work in the Sri Lankan context.
1MDB corruption scandal in Malaysia: a study of failings in control and accountability
Authors: Jones David Seth
Published: October 2020

Purpose

The aim of the paper is to examine the various aspects of the 1MDB scandal including the extent and types of corruption that occurred and the action taken to deal with them. In doing this, the paper seeks to identify the reasons for the scandal and the lessons that can be learnt to avoid such a scandal in Malaysia and elsewhere in the future.

Design/methodology/approach

The research for the paper is based on evidence from court hearings, reports of watchdog and regulatory agencies, media reports, and various articles and books written about 1MDB.

Findings

The paper shows that most of the scandal involved embezzlement, bribery, false declarations and bond mispricing relating to extensive borrowing by 1MDB, and entailed a global network of shell companies and individuals through which the illicit money was passed. It also shows weak governance in 1MDB, poor internal controls within banks, the failure of watchdog and enforcement bodies to take the necessary action partly due to political control over them, and overall the lack of political will to deal with the scandal.

Originality/value

The paper builds on the findings of other papers and books written on the 1MDB scandal. It does this by linking the corruption to the borrowings of 1MDB, the international network of money-laundering and bribery through which illicit money flowed, and the poor internal controls in the organisation. It also builds on previous research by highlighting the failure of banks to identify money-laundering and of watchdog and enforcement bodies to deal with the corruption. A further value of the paper is to identify the lessons that can be learnt about combatting corruption on such a scale.
Sontaku and political scandals in Japan
Authors: Carlson Matthew M.
Published: October 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explain a new scandal ingredient in Japanese politics called sontaku. This word refers to cases when officials grant special treatment to a project because they believe they are acting in accordance with the wishes of an associated powerful person.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper describes the specific construction of major scandals involving sontaku from 2017 based primarily on newspaper accounts, examines the consequences of these scandals for politicians and bureaucrats, and discusses their implications for combating corruption in Japan.

Findings

The scandals after 2017 damaged to some extent the public support for the current Japanese administration and influenced the prime minister's decision to call a snap election. The scandals also highlighted systematic problems in the bureaucracy and motivated the government to reform laws concerning the management of public documents.

Originality/value

This paper will be useful to scholars and policy makers interested in studying the causes and consequences of scandals and political corruption in Japan.
Constitutional corruption in India: an analysis of two Bharatiya Janata Party scandals
Authors: Tummala Krishna K.
Published: October 2020

Purpose

This paper focuses on two examples of constitutional corruption in India where the constitution is used for questionable political reasons by the Bharatiya Janata Party under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper relies on public documents and media reports to analyse Prime Minister Modi's handling of the purchase of Rafale jet fighters from France and the revocation of Articles 370 and 35A which resulted in the division of the State of Jammu and Kashmir.

Findings

Constitutional and democratic norms were violated in both cases, but the Supreme Court did not find any irregularities in the sale of the Rafale jet fighters. The second case is under challenge in the Supreme Court. The analysis reveals how the Modi government has undermined democratic values and used constitutional provisions to pursue its partisan and ideological agenda.

Originality/value

The paper focuses attention on the often neglected topic of constitutional corruption in India.
Determinants and convergence of government effectiveness in Africa and Asia
Authors: Duho King C.T. , Amankwa Mark Opoku , Musah-Surugu Justice I.
Published: October 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the determinants and convergence of government effectiveness in African and Asian countries.

Design/methodology/approach

The study utilizes data from 100 countries in Africa and Asia from 2002 to 2018. The panel-corrected standard error regression is used for the regression analysis, while both beta-convergence and sigma-convergence among the countries are tested.

Findings

Both beta-convergence and sigma-convergence exist among African and Asian countries. Asia performs better than Africa across all indicators except for press freedom, and voice and accountability. Corruption perception index, government size, voice and accountability, regulatory quality and economic wealth have a significant positive effect on government effectiveness. Press freedom negatively impacts on government effectiveness, suggesting that freedom is necessary but not sufficient if there are political actors whose actions undermine freedom. Similarly, the political constraint index, as reflected by checks and balances are necessary but not sufficient to enhance government effectiveness, especially in Asia.

Practical implications

The results reveal that for press freedom and political checks and balances to enhance government effectiveness, there is a need for a different and holistic approach. The results are relevant for policymakers, public sector practitioners and academics.

Originality/value

This study utilizes a new dataset and is premier in exploring the convergence of government effectiveness among African and Asian countries.
Beyond quid pro quo: good soldiers and characteristics of their helping behaviours
Authors: Szulc Joanna Maria
Published: October 2020

Purpose

Good soldiers are people who engage in citizenship behaviors “to do good” instead of “to look good”. The purpose of this article is to explore the motivations behind and the specific characteristics of behaviours of the good soldiers in the context of work using social exchange theory (SET) as a theoretical framework.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 47 dyadic interviews with 94 individuals from three organisations where good soldiers are most likely to be observed were conducted.

Findings

Data analysis revealed that good soldiers are driven by concern for others and generalised reciprocity, but not by expectations of self-benefits. Their actions were further found to be discretionary, reactive and proactive and associated with different levels of self-sacrifice.

Practical implications

The findings of this study point human resources (HR) practitioners' attention towards qualitatively unique acts of good soldiers. An assumption is made that awareness of such behaviours can help organisations to stimulate individual self-motivation, so that the quality of helping behaviours could be improved.

Originality/value

Arguing for a fundamental rethink of the psychological foundations underpinning helpful behaviours, this paper departs from predominantly individualistic view on work motivation and reinforces the other-oriented, altruistic dimension of SET. In doing so, it addresses the lack of conceptual and theoretical clarity on differently motivated helping and extends the existing limited research evidence in this area. It further addresses a need for a comprehensive understanding of other-oriented behaviours and accounts for vital – yet neglected – features of such acts.
Self-powered flexible pressure sensors based on nanopatterned polymer films
Authors: Zhang Man , Xia Liangping , Dang Suihu , Shi Lifang , Cao Axiu , Du Chunlei
Published: October 2020

Purpose

The pressure sensors can convert external pressure or mechanical deformation into electrical power and signal, which cannot only detect pressure or strain changes but also harvest energy as a self-powered sensor. This study aims to develop a self-powered flexible pressure sensor based on regular nanopatterned polymer films.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, the self-powered flexible pressure sensor is mainly composed of two nanopatterned polymer films and one conductive electrode layer between them, which is a sandwich structure. The regular nanostructures increase the film roughness and contact area to enhance the friction effect. To enhance the performance of the pressure sensor, different nanostructures on soft polymer sensitive layers are fabricated using UV nanoimprint lithography to generate more triboelectric charges.

Findings

Finally, the self-powered flexible pressure sensor is prepared, which consists of sub-200 nm resolution regular nanostructures on the surface of the elastic layer and an indium tin oxide electrode thin film. By converting the friction mechanical energy into electrical power, a maximum power of 423.8 mW/m2 and the sensitivity of 0.8 V/kPa at a frequency of 5 Hz are obtained, which proves the excellent sensing performance of the sensor.

Originality/value

The acquired electrical power and pressure signal by the sensor would be processed in the signal process circuit, which is capable of immediately and sustainably driving the highly integrated self-powered sensor system. Results of the experiments show that this new pressure sensor is a potential method for personal pressure monitoring, featured as being wearable, cost-effective, non-invasive and user-friendly.
Incentives and motivations of Chinese destination management organization officers
Authors: Zhang Jiangchi , Xie Chaowu , Morrison Alastair M. , Yang Qinqin
Published: October 2020

Purpose

This research divided expectations into three timeframes based on expectancy theory – short-, medium- and long-term. The incentive-motivation structures of government tourism officers were identified by these timeframes and the effects of incentives on job engagement, performance and satisfaction were investigated.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey was conducted in 31 provinces of China, and a total of 650 responses were used for data analysis after removing invalid surveys. The statistical analysis techniques adopted were confirmatory factor analysis, correlation analysis and structural equation modeling.

Findings

The results showed that: realistic motivations, career prospects and “macro-vision” were the motivational factors of tourism officers in the short-, medium- and long-term, respectively; incentives positively predicted tourism officer job engagement, performance and satisfaction; and job engagement and performance mediated the influence of incentives on job satisfaction.

Research limitations/implications

The main limitation was that the respondents were from 31 provinces in China, and there may be regional and local differences due to the unique and complex geographic and social conditions, as well as dissimilar economic development levels and administrative systems.

Practical implications

Public sector tourism departments must recognize tourism officer needs and motivations in the short-, medium- and long-term and develop tailored incentive programs.

Originality/value

Based on expectancy theory across different timeframes, this research identified the incentive-motivation structure and its effect on Chinese destination management organization officers and potentially provides a theoretical basis for the optimization of this administrative incentive system.
Dermoscopic diagnostic performance of Japanese dermatologists for skin tumors differs by patient origin: A deep learning convolutional neural network closes the gap
Authors: Minagawa Akane , Koga Hiroshi , Sano Tasuku , Matsunaga Kazuhisa , Teshima Yoshihiro , Hamada Akira , Houjou Yoshiharu , Okuyama Ryuhei
Published: October 2020

In the dermoscopic diagnosis of skin tumors, it remains unclear whether a deep neural network (DNN) trained with images from fair‐skinned‐predominant archives is helpful when applied for patients with darker skin. This study compared the performance of 30 Japanese dermatologists with that of a DNN for the dermoscopic diagnosis of International Skin Imaging Collaboration (ISIC) and Shinshu (Japanese only) datasets to classify malignant melanoma, melanocytic nevus, basal cell carcinoma and benign keratosis on the non‐volar skin. The DNN was trained using 12 254 images from the ISIC set and 594 images from the Shinshu set. The sensitivity for malignancy prediction by the dermatologists was significantly higher for the Shinshu set than for the ISIC set (0.853 [95% confidence interval, 0.820–0.885] vs 0.608 [0.553–0.664], P < 0.001). The specificity of the DNN at the dermatologists’ mean sensitivity value was 0.962 for the Shinshu set and 1.00 for the ISIC set and significantly higher than that for the human readers (both P < 0.001). The dermoscopic diagnostic performance of dermatologists for skin tumors tended to be less accurate for patients of non‐local populations, particularly in relation to the dominant skin type. A DNN may help close this gap in the clinical setting.
Large‐scale ecological field data for satellite validation in deciduous forests and grasslands
Authors: Akitsu Tomoko Kawaguchi , Nakaji Tatsuro , Kobayashi Hajime , Okano Tetsuo , Honda Yoshiaki , Bayarsaikhan Undrakh , Terigele  , Hayashi Masato , Hiura Tsutom , Ide Reiko , Igarashi Susumu , Kajiwara Koji , Kumikawa Syoji , Matsuoka Yuuichi , Nakano Takashi , Nakano Tomoko , Okuda Atsushi , Sato Tomoaki , Tachiiri Kaoru , Takahashi Yoshiyuki , Uchida Jiro , Nasahara Kenlo Nishida
Published: October 2020

In situ accurate data sets of leaf area index (LAI), above‐ground biomass (AGB), and fraction of absorbed photosynthetically active radiation (fAPAR) are indispensable to validate and improve ecological products obtained from satellites. In situ data for satellite validation must be created not from a single‐point data but from areal data (such as multiple‐points data) representing a satellite footprint. Using multiple‐points data, the error of in situ data can be calculated statistically. The quantification of the error in the in situ data enables us to evaluate the discrepancy between the satellites' products and the in situ data as the error in the in situ data and the estimation error in the products separately. Besides, the accuracy of the in situ data is required to be much higher than the accuracy of the satellite products which was officially set. To obtain such in situ data, we have established observation sites for typical land cover types in East Asia, from temperate to cool ecosystems: deciduous needle‐leaved forest (DNF), evergreen needle‐leaved forest (ENF), deciduous broad‐leaved forest (DBF), and grassland (GL). We conducted the observations in 500 m × 500 m areas, which is the footprint scale of the Global Change Observation Mission‐Climate satellite. In this paper, the data of LAI, AGB, and fAPAR observed at DNF, DBF, and GL (i.e., except at ENF) are reported. These data are useful even for the validation of other satellite products, especially with higher spatial resolution. Also, the long‐term tree census data from 2005 to 2018 at DNF are reported.

The complete data set for this abstract published in the Data Paper section of the journal is available in electronic format in MetaCat in JaLTER at http://db.cger.nies.go.jp/JaLTER/metacat/metacat/ERDP-2020-16.1/jalter-en.
Specimen‐based records of geometrid, pyralid and crambid moths (Lepidoptera) with location information from the collection of Dr. Hiroshi Inoue
Authors: Yoshimatsu Shin‐ichi , Watabiki Daisuke , Osawa Takeshi
Published: October 2020

As moths of the geometrid group usually live in forests and do not move long distances, they are considered to be valuable as environmental bio‐indicators. Biodiversity data based on voucher specimens should have high quality and reliability. Here, we publish the records of the family Geometridae and the superfamily Pyraloidea (Pyralidae and Crambidae) with time of collection and location information, that is, latitude and longitude on the basis of the collection of Dr. Hiroshi Inoue deposited at Institute for Agro‐Environmental Sciences, NARO (NIAES). The collection of Geometridae covers 653 records from 615 species, collected from 1926 to 1979. The collection of Pyraloidea covers 447 records from 418 species, collected from 1949 to 1985. For the purpose, all users can access the data from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) portal site with open data license CC BY 4.0; all data is published in the GBIF through the Japan node of GBIF (JBIF).

The detailed Metadata for this abstract published in the Data Paper section of the journal is available in MetaCat in JaLTER at http://db.cger.nies.go.jp/JaLTER/metacat/metacat/ERDP-2020-21.1/jalter-en.
Characterization of the bacterial microbiomes of social amoebae and exploration of the roles of host and environment on microbiome composition
Authors: Sallinger Eleni , Robeson Michael S. , Haselkorn Tamara S.
Published: October 2020

As predators of bacteria, amoebae select for traits that allow bacteria to become symbionts by surviving phagocytosis and exploiting the eukaryotic intracellular environment. Soil‐dwelling social amoebae can help us answer questions about the natural ecology of these amoeba‐bacteria symbioses along the pathogen‐mutualist spectrum. Our objective was to characterize the natural bacterial microbiome of phylogenetically and morphologically diverse social amoeba species using next‐generation sequencing of 16S rRNA amplicons directly from amoeba fruiting bodies. We found six phyla of amoeba‐associated bacteria: Proteobacteria, Bacteroidetes, Actinobacteria, Chlamydiae, Firmicutes, and Acidobacteria. The most common associates of amoebae were classified to order Chlamydiales and genus Burkholderia‐Caballeronia‐Paraburkholderia. These bacteria were present in multiple amoeba species across multiple locations. While there was substantial intraspecific variation, there was some evidence for host specificity and differentially abundant taxa between different amoeba hosts. Amoebae microbiomes were distinct from the microbiomes of their soil habitat, and soil pH affected amoeba microbiome diversity. Alpha‐diversity was unsurprisingly lower in amoebae samples compared with soil, but beta‐diversity between amoebae samples was higher than between soil samples. Further exploration of social amoebae microbiomes may help us understand the roles of bacteria, host, and environment on symbiotic interactions and microbiome formation in basal eukaryotic organisms.
Sister Communities: Rejecting Labels of Informality and Peripherality in Vanuatu
Authors: Day Jennifer
Published: October 2020

Some labels have dire consequences. This article takes issue with the labels commonly used to describe the physical and social location of communities living on the edge of Port Vila, Vanuatu—labels that position communities for eviction by entrenching tropes of informality and peripherality into how they are seen and represented. Such terms include informal, settlement, informal settlement, squatter and peri‐urban. Based on interviews with around 100 people and two years of ethnographic engagement with urban communities in Port Vila, Vanuatu, I critique the language of policy against the lived experience of those at the urban edge. I use Bourdieu's articulation of power as an accumulation of symbolic capital that enables one to speak the world into being. I conclude that the language of policies and plans is reflective of a dominant discourse in urban studies and international aid, and non‐reflective of the experience and identities of people living at the urban edge. My interviewees and interlocutors maintain their identities as sister communities—as places grounded in the formality of customary tenure, and as part of the city rather than outside it.
A critical review on metabolomic analysis of milk and milk products
Authors: Sen Chandrakanta , Ray Pinaki Ranjan , Bhattacharyya Mahasweta
Published: October 2020

Metabolomics deals with the identification and quantification of the small molecules involved in metabolic reactions. It has recently been used to understand the nutritional quality and authenticity of milk and milk products. Various analytical techniques such as nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry, gas chromatography–mass spectrometry and ultra‐performance liquid chromatography–quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry have been successfully employed to identify and quantify the metabolites present in milk and milk products. This review focuses on the recent advances in metabolomics for quality and safety analyses of milk and milk products.
Towards an understanding of dialectical authenticity of historic landscapes in China
Authors: Yang Chen , Lawson Gillian , Sim Jeannie , Han Feng
Published: October 2020

This article explores stakeholders' understandings of authenticity in a selected historic landscape of China, and focuses on views about appropriate conservation and management strategies. The World Heritage listed site, Slender West Lake Scenic and Historic Interest Area, is examined as a case study. The study shows that various stakeholders think the originality of fabric, the representation of intangible values, and social engagement are three major indicators of the authenticity of this historic landscape. The finding leads us to suggest that, in China, authenticity is significantly influenced by specific social, political, and economic factors and by native Chinese philosophies and the cultural characteristic of naïve dialecticism, which partly explains contemporary conservation practices there. The case study also demonstrates that creative reconstruction has always been an important cultural practice in the history and geography of the Slender West Lake site. However, the superficial application of this cultural practice may create challenges for contemporary landscape conservation. The concept of dialectical authenticity therefore has implications for future conservation practices of historic landscapes.
Distal‐type bronchiolar adenoma of the lung harboring an EGFR exon 21 p.L858R mutation: A case report
Authors: Yang Chenglin , Wang Xiaoliang , Da Jiping , Ma Kai
Published: October 2020

Here, we present a case of a distal‐type bronchiolar adenoma (BA) of the lung. BAs are benign lung tumors characterized by nodular proliferation of bilayered bronchiolar‐type epithelium with a continuous layer of basal cells. This patient underwent S3 segmentectomy following detection by computed tomography (CT) scan of a gradually enlarging ground‐glass nodule (GGO) over a five month period. Nodule morphology and immunophenotype were consistent with those of distal‐type BA of the lung. An epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) exon 21 p.L858R missense mutation was identified which, to the best of our knowledge, is the first case to be reported of a common gene mutation associated with non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) being found in a BA lesion. Following surgery, the patient remains relapse‐free.

Key points

Significant findings of the study

Pathological assessment of a lung nodule confirmed a papillary tumor with a double‐layered cell structure, less than typical cytoplasm, and a mixture of ciliated columnar and globular cells, consistent with a distal‐type bronchiolar adenoma.

What this study adds

This is the first report of an EGFR exon 21 p.L858R mutation in a bronchiolar adenoma.
The risk of complications in second pregnancy by maternal BMI: The role of first‐pregnancy complications, pregestational diabetes and chronic hypertension
Authors: Sormunen‐Harju Heidi , Koivusalo Saila , Gissler Mika , Metsälä Johanna
Published: October 2020

Introduction

Maternal obesity is associated with an increased risk of several pregnancy complications. In the second pregnancy, previous pregnancy and other medical history provide additional information about individual morbidity risk. In this study, we assess the risk of pregnancy complications in the second pregnancy by maternal body mass index (BMI) and evaluate how first‐pregnancy complications and preexisting conditions modify these associations.

Material and methods

We have used nationwide data on all women (n = 48 963) experiencing their first and second pregnancy between 2006 and 2013 in Finland. The associations between the full scale of maternal BMI and pregnancy complications (gestational diabetes, gestational hypertension and preeclampsia) were analyzed using logistic regression and restricted cubic spline regression models and interactions between BMI and first‐pregnancy complications, pregestational diabetes or chronic hypertension were tested.

Results

The risk of pregnancy complications increased with adiposity. Unadjusted probability of second‐pregnancy gestational diabetes with BMI of 25 kg/m2 was 56% and 8.4% among women with and without first‐pregnancy gestational diabetes, respectively. The corresponding figures with BMI of 30 kg/m2 were 64% and 17%. Adjusted odds ratio (OR) (95% CI) for second‐pregnancy gestational diabetes with BMI of 25 kg/m2 was 45 (34‐59) and 3.3 (2.6‐4.0) among women with and without first‐pregnancy gestational diabetes, respectively, when compared with women with BMI of 20 kg/m2 and no first‐pregnancy gestational diabetes. Adjusted OR (95% CI) for second‐pregnancy gestational hypertension among women with BMI of 25 kg/m2 was 42 (26‐66) and 2.3 (1.4‐3.8) among women with and without first‐pregnancy hypertensive disorder, respectively, when compared with women with BMI of 20 kg/m2 and no first‐pregnancy hypertensive disorder. The risk of preeclampsia increased with adiposity independent of first‐pregnancy complications. Pregestational diabetes or chronic hypertension did not modify the association between adiposity and any of the second‐pregnancy complications.

Conclusions

As maternal BMI increases, the risk of complications increases in the second pregnancy. The risk of gestational diabetes and hypertension is, however, highest among women with complications in the first pregnancy.
Salivary gland tumours in Iceland 1986–2015: a nationwide epidemiological analysis over a 30‐year time period
Authors: Aegisdottir Anna Lilja , Tryggvason Geir , Jonsdottir Anna Margret , Jonasson Jon Gunnlaugur
Published: October 2020

Salivary gland tumours (SGT) are a vast and heterogenous group of neoplasms. There is a relative lack of comprehensive nationwide epidemiological studies on the subject. The aim of this nationwide analysis was to gain insight into epidemiological traits, such as site, incidence and histological subtypes of SGT in general. Patients diagnosed with a primary SGT between 1986 and 2015 were identified from The Icelandic Cancer Registry and registries from all pathology departments in Iceland. Information on age, sex, tumour location and histology was retrieved from pathology reports. A total of 687 patients were diagnosed with a SGT, 609 (89%) were benign and 78 (11%) malignant. 9% of parotid gland tumours, 22% of submandibular gland tumours and 26% of minor SGT were malignant. The most common malignant tumours were mucoepidermoid carcinoma, acinic cell carcinoma and adenoid cystic carcinoma. The incidence of benign SGT was 4.9 per 100 000 among men and 7.0 per 100 000 among women. The incidence of malignant tumours was 0.59 per 100 000 for men and 0.79 per 100 000 for women. The proportion of malignant SGT is lower than most often reported. Only 10% of parotid gland tumours, 20% of submandibular gland tumours and 25% of minor salivary gland tumours are malignant.
Solitary pelvic primary intraperitoneal hydatid managed with a minimal access approach: A case report
Authors: Singla Vitish , Suhani Suhani , Bhattacharjee Hemanga K , Goyal Ankur , Parshad Rajinder
Published: October 2020

Solitary primary pelvic intraperitoneal hydatid cysts are rare. We report the case of a 22‐year‐old women who presented with a dull ache in her lower abdomen for 2 years and increased urinary frequency over 3 months. Ultrasonography and CT indicated a solitary primary peritoneal pelvic hydatid cyst. Hydatid serology was positive. Perioperative albendazole was prescribed and laparoscopic cystectomy planned. Intraoperatively, dense adhesions to the omentum, urinary bladder, and left fallopian tube were taken down laparoscopically. A small Pfannenstiel incision was made to separate the bladder's left lateral edge and deliver the cyst externally. This report details our experience of managing this case and reviews pertinent literature.
Autologous stem cell transplantation for untreated transformed indolent B‐cell lymphoma in first remission: an international, multi‐centre propensity‐score‐matched study
Authors: Chin C. K. , Lim K. J. , Lewis K. , Jain P. , Qing Y. , Feng L. , Cheah C. Y. , Seymour J. F. , Ritchie D. , Burbury K. , Tam C. S. , Fowler N. H. , Fayad L. E. , Westin J. R. , Neelapu S. S. , Hagemeister F. B. , Samaniego F. , Flowers C. R. , Nastoupil L. J. , Dickinson M. J.
Published: October 2020

High‐dose chemotherapy (HDC) and autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) are used as consolidation in first remission (CR1) in some centres for untreated, transformed indolent B‐cell lymphoma (Tr‐iNHL) but the evidence base is weak. A total of 319 patients with untreated Tr‐iNHL meeting prespecified transplant eligibility criteria [age <75, LVEF ≥45%, no severe lung disease, CR by positron emission tomography or computed tomography ≥3 months after at least standard cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine and prednisolone with rituximab (R‐CHOP) intensity front‐line chemotherapy] were retrospectively identified. Non‐diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma transformations were excluded. About 283 (89%) patients had follicular lymphoma, 30 (9%) marginal‐zone lymphoma and six (2%) other subtypes. Forty‐nine patients underwent HDC/ASCT in CR1, and a 1:2 propensity‐score‐matched cohort of 98 patients based on age, stage and high‐grade B‐cell lymphoma with MYC, BCL2 and/or BCL6 rearrangements (HGBL‐DH) was generated. After a median follow‐up of 3·7 (range 0·1–18·3) years, ASCT was associated with significantly superior progression‐free survival [hazard ratio (HR) 0·51, 0·27–0·98; P = 0·043] with a trend towards inferior overall survival (OS; HR 2·36;0·87–6·42; P = 0·1) due to more deaths from progressive disease (8% vs. 4%). Forty (41%) patients experienced relapse in the non‐ASCT cohort — 15 underwent HDC/ASCT with seven (47%) ongoing complete remission (CR); 10 chimeric antigen receptor‐modified T‐cell (CAR‐T) therapy with 6 (60%) ongoing CR; 3 allogeneic SCT with 2 (67%) ongoing CR. Although ASCT in CR1 improves initial duration of disease control in untreated Tr‐iNHL, the impact on OS is less clear with effective salvage therapies in this era of CAR‐T.
Gaussian variational estimation for multidimensional item response theory
Authors: Cho April E. , Wang Chun , Zhang Xue , Xu Gongjun
Published: October 2020

Multidimensional item response theory (MIRT) is widely used in assessment and evaluation of educational and psychological tests. It models the individual response patterns by specifying a functional relationship between individuals' multiple latent traits and their responses to test items. One major challenge in parameter estimation in MIRT is that the likelihood involves intractable multidimensional integrals due to the latent variable structure. Various methods have been proposed that involve either direct numerical approximations to the integrals or Monte Carlo simulations. However, these methods are known to be computationally demanding in high dimensions and rely on sampling data points from a posterior distribution. We propose a new Gaussian variational expectation‐‐maximization (GVEM) algorithm which adopts variational inference to approximate the intractable marginal likelihood by a computationally feasible lower bound. In addition, the proposed algorithm can be applied to assess the dimensionality of the latent traits in an exploratory analysis. Simulation studies are conducted to demonstrate the computational efficiency and estimation precision of the new GVEM algorithm compared to the popular alternative Metropolis–Hastings Robbins–Monro algorithm. In addition, theoretical results are presented to establish the consistency of the estimator from the new GVEM algorithm.
Migration as a test of the happiness set‐point hypothesis: Evidence from immigration to Canada and the United Kingdom
Authors: Helliwell John F. , Shiplett Hugh , Bonikowska Aneta
Published: October 2020

Strong versions of the set‐point hypothesis argue that subjective well‐being measures reflect primarily each individual's own personality and that deviations are temporary. International migration provides an excellent test, since life circumstances and subjective well‐being differ greatly among countries. With or without adjustments for selection effects, the levels and distributions of immigrant life‐satisfaction scores for immigrants to the United Kingdom and Canada from up to 100 source countries mimic those in their destination countries, and even the destination regions within those countries, rather than those in their source countries, showing that subjective life evaluations are substantially driven by life circumstances and respond when those circumstances change.
Gene amplification of YB‐1 in castration‐resistant prostate cancer in association with aberrant androgen receptor expression
Authors: Shiota Masaki , Sekino Yohei , Tsukahara Shigehiro , Abe Tatsuro , Kinoshita Fumio , Imada Kenjiro , Ueda Shohei , Ushijima Miho , Nagakawa Shohei , Matsumoto Takashi , Kashiwagi Eiji , Takeuchi Ario , Inokuchi Junichi , Uchiumi Takeshi , Oda Yoshinao , Eto Masatoshi
Published: October 2020

Although Y‐box binding protein‐1 (YB‐1) is known to be overexpressed in prostate cancer, especially castration‐resistant prostate cancer (CRPC), the mechanism of its overexpression remains unclear. We aimed to elucidate the mechanism of YB‐1 overexpression in CRPC. Gene amplification in CRPC cells and tissues was examined by public database analysis, and digital PCR. The significance of YB‐1 amplification for the YB‐1/androgen receptor (AR) axis and prognosis was examined by public database analysis and immunohistochemistry. YB‐1 amplification was mainly observed in CRPC tissues by public database analysis and confirmed in CRPC cells and tissues by digital PCR. Expression of YB‐1 was increased in CRPC tissues compared with treatment‐naïve tissues. Furthermore, YB‐1 and phosphorylated YB‐1 levels were associated with AR and AR V7 expression levels. Finally, YB‐1 amplification was associated with poor outcomes in CRPC. Taken together, the present findings suggest that YB‐1 amplification contributes to progression to CRPC through regulation of AR and AR V7 expressions, and that YB‐1 is a promising therapeutic target in CRPC.
Segmental versus extended colectomy for tumours of the transverse colon: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Morarasu Stefan , Clancy Cillian , Cronin Catherine T , Matsuda Takeru , Heneghan Helen M , Winter Desmond C
Published: October 2020

Aim

There is no consensus on the appropriate extent of oncological resection for tumours of the transverse colon. Concerns regarding tumour factors such as pattern of lymph node spread and technical factors such as anastomotic perfusion lead to a variety of procedures being performed.

Methods

A comprehensive search for published studies examining outcomes following segmental versus extended colectomy for transverse colon tumours was performed adhering to PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items in Systematic Reviews and Meta‐analyses) guidelines. Random effects methods were used to combine data.

Results

Seven comparative series examining outcomes in 3395 patients were identified. Segmental colectomy results in shorter operating times (mean difference 15.80 min, 95% CI −20.98 to −10.62, P < 0.001) and less ileus (OR 0.52, 95% CI 0.33–0.81, P = 0.004). There was no difference in length of hospital stay (mean difference 1.53 days, 95% CI −3.79 to 0.73, P = 0.18). Extended colectomy results in a lower rate of anastomotic leak (OR 0.62, 95% CI 0.40–0.97, P = 0.04). There are fewer nodes retrieved in segmental colectomy (mean difference 7.60 nodes, 95% CI −9.60 to −5.61, P < 0.001) but no difference in disease recurrence (OR 0.88, 95% CI 0.59–1.34, P = 0.56) or overall survival (OR 0.98, 95% CI 0.68–1.4, P = 0.9).

Conclusions

Available data are limited due to a lack of randomized controlled trials. However, based on current evidence, segmental resection for transverse colon tumours is associated with less ileus but lower lymph node yields and higher anastomotic leak rates. Length of stay is similar. Oncological outcomes are equivalent.
Yield of colorectal cancer at colonoscopy according to faecal haemoglobin concentration in symptomatic patients referred from primary care
Authors: McSorley Stephen T. , Digby Jayne , Clyde Danielle , Cruickshank Neil , Burton Paul , Barker Louise , Strachan Judith A. , Fraser Callum G. , Smith Karen , Mowat Craig , Winter Jack , Steele Robert J.C.
Published: October 2020

Aim

Lower gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms are poor predictors of colorectal cancer (CRC). The aim of this study was to examine the diagnostic yield of colonoscopy by faecal haemoglobin (f‐Hb) concentration in symptomatic patients assessed in primary care by faecal immunochemical testing (FIT).

Method

In three Scottish NHS Boards, FIT kits (HM‐JACKarc, Hitachi Chemical Diagnostics Systems Co., Ltd, Tokyo, Japan) were used by general practitioners to guide referrals for patients with lower GI symptoms (laboratory data studied for 12 months from December 2015 onwards in Tayside, 18 months from June 2018 onwards in Fife and 5 months from September 2018 onwards in Greater Glasgow and Clyde). Cases of CRC diagnosed at colonoscopy were ascertained from colonoscopy and pathology records.

Results

Four thousand eight hundred and forty one symptomatic patients who underwent colonoscopy after FIT submission were included. Of the 2166 patients (44.7%) with f‐Hb <10 µg Hb/g faeces (µg/g), 14 (0.6%) were diagnosed with CRC, with a number needed to scope (NNS) of 155. Of the 2675 patients (55.3%) with f‐Hb ≥10 µg/g, 252 were diagnosed with CRC (9.4%) with a NNS of 11. Of the 705 patients with f‐Hb ≥400 µg/g, 158 (22.4%) were diagnosed with CRC with a NNS of 5. Over half of those diagnosed with CRC with f‐Hb <10 µg/g had coexisting anaemia.

Conclusion

Symptomatic patients with f‐Hb ≥10 µg/g should undergo further investigation for CRC, while higher f‐Hb concentrations could be used to triage for urgency during the COVID‐19 recovery phase. Patients with f‐Hb <10 µg/g and without anaemia are very unlikely to be diagnosed with CRC and the majority need no further investigation.
Retrospective analysis of the histopathologic features of basal cell carcinomas in pediatric patients with basal cell nevus syndrome
Authors: Nguyen Cuong V. , Rubin Adam I. , Smith Anna , Castelo‐Soccio Leslie
Published: October 2020

Basal cell nevus syndrome (BCNS) is an autosomal dominant condition caused most often by a loss‐of‐function mutation in the Patched‐1 (PTCH1) gene. It is characterized by the development of varied benign and malignant tumors, including numerous cutaneous basal cell carcinomas (BCCs). The PTCH1 gene is integral in hair follicle development and loss of function mutation may lead to BCCs with an infundibulocystic histopathology in BCNS patients. Few studies have described the histopathological features of BCCs in BCNS. The recognition of these histopathologic features by dermatologists, dermatopathologists, and others caring for children will allow earlier and more effective identification of BCNS. We performed a retrospective analysis of 25 BCCs in 11 patients aged 5 to 19 years with BCNS and evaluated the histopathologic features on hematoxylin‐eosin‐stained sections. Our study found that 80% of BCCs in BCNS patients occurred on the head and neck with 64% of the specimens demonstrating infundibulocystic differentiation. Infundibulocystic differentiation is a common finding in BCCs found in BCNS. The finding of cutaneous neoplasms consistent with BCC with infundibulocystic differentiation in children is common in pediatric patients with BCNS and can be considered to be an early marker of the disorder, prompting further clinical investigation.
Testing the Homogeneity Hypothesis of Personality: Replication and Extension across European Countries, Industry Sectors and Organizations
Authors: D'Amato Alessia , Michaelides George
Published: October 2020

This paper builds on previous studies testing the homogeneity hypothesis of personality as presented in seminal works in the field. Using a sample of 2,745 managers from 165 organizations operating in 51 sectors, spanning 30 European countries, we explore the Attraction‐Selection‐Attrition (ASA) framework in European organizations, and examine managerial personality variability within and between: (1) organizations; (2) industry sectors; and (3) European countries. To explore personality, the Myers‐Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) was used and the hypotheses tested with Bayesian Multilevel analysis, along with the within‐group interrater reliability statistic (rWG) and average deviation from the mean (ADM) agreement indices. Results revealed significant variance in personality between organizations and countries – but not within sectors. Evaluation of within group agreement revealed that agreement in personality profiles within organizations is relatively low (10–39%); the agreement is higher within countries (56–68%) and within industry sectors (30–63%). The results reveal that perhaps organizations are not as homogeneous as previously suggested. Earlier cautions about the consequences of Attraction‐Selection‐Attrition yielding relative homogeneity are discussed as unnecessary, and complementary fit is suggested. This is the first study to empirically test within group agreement across levels.
Baseline white matter hyperintensities affect the course of cognitive function after small vessel disease‐related stroke: a prospective observational study
Authors: Fruhwirth V. , Enzinger C. , Fandler‐Höfler S. , Kneihsl M. , Eppinger S. , Ropele S. , Schmidt R. , Gattringer T. , Pinter D.
Published: October 2020

Background and purpose

Cognitive impairment is a common sequel of recent small subcortical infarction (RSSI) and might be negatively affected by preexisting cerebral small vessel disease (SVD). We investigated whether the course of cognitive function in patients with RSSI is influenced by the severity of white matter hyperintensities (WMH), an important imaging feature of SVD.

Methods

Patients with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)‐proven single RSSI were tested neuropsychologically concerning global cognition, processing speed, attention, and set‐shifting. Deep and periventricular WMH severity was assessed using the Fazekas scale, and total WMH lesion volume was calculated from T1‐weighted MRI images. We compared baseline function and course of cognition 15 months after the acute event in patients with absent, mild, and moderate‐to‐severe WMH.

Results

The study cohort comprised 82 RSSI patients (mean age: 61 ± 10 years, 23% female). At baseline, 40% had cognitive impairment (1.5 standard deviations below standardized mean), and deficits persisted in one‐third of the sample after 15 months. After age correction, there were no significant differences in set‐shifting between WMH groups at baseline. However, although patients without WMH (deep: p < 0.001, periventricular: p = 0.067) or only mild WMH (deep: p = 0.098, periventricular: p = 0.001) improved in set‐shifting after 15 months, there was no improvement in patients with moderate‐to‐severe WMH (deep: p = 0.980, periventricular: p = 0.816). Baseline total WMH volume (p = 0.002) was the only significant predictor for attention 15 months poststroke.

Conclusions

This longitudinal study demonstrates that preexisting moderate‐to‐severe WMH negatively affect the restoration of cognitive function after RSSI, suggesting limited functional reserve in patients with preexisting SVD.
Neonatal developmental and epileptic encephalopathy due to autosomal recessive variants in SLC13A5 gene
Authors: Matricardi Sara , De Liso Paola , Freri Elena , Costa Paola , Castellotti Barbara , Magri Stefania , Gellera Cinzia , Granata Tiziana , Musante Luciana , Lesca Gaetan , Oertel Julie , Craiu Dana , Hammer Trine B. , Møller Rikke S. , Barisic Nina , Abou Jamra Rami , Polster Tilman , Vigevano Federico , Marini Carla
Published: October 2020

Objective

Autosomal recessive pathogenic variants of the SLC13A5 gene are associated with severe neonatal epilepsy, developmental delay, and tooth hypoplasia/hypodontia. We report on 14 additional patients and compare their phenotypic features to previously published patients to identify the clinical hallmarks of this disorder.

Methods

We collected clinical features of 14 patients carrying biallelic variants in SLC13A5 and performed a PubMed search to identify previously published patients.

Results

All patients presented clonic or tonic seizures in the first days of life, evolving into status epilepticus in 57%. Analysis of seizure frequency and developmental milestones divided into five epochs showed an evolutionary trajectory of both items. In the first 3 years of life, 72% of patients had weekly/monthly seizures, often triggered by fever; 14% were seizure‐free. Between the ages of 3 and 12 years, 60% become seizure‐free; in the following years, up to age 18 years, 57% were seizure‐free. After the age of 18 years, all three patients reaching this age were seizure‐free. Similarly, 86% of patients at onset presented mild to moderate developmental impairment and diffuse hypotonia. In late childhood, all had developmental delay that was severe in most. Benzodiazepines, phenobarbital, phenytoin, and carbamazepine were the most effective drugs. Eight probands carried heterozygous compound variants, and homozygous pathogenic variants occurred in six. Literature review identified 45 patients carrying SLC13A5 gene pathogenic variants whose clinical features overlapped with our cohort. A peculiar and distinguishing sign is the presence of tooth hypoplasia and/or hypodontia in most patients.

Significance

Autosomal recessive pathogenic variants in SLC13A5 are associated with a distinct neonatal epileptic encephalopathy evolving into severe cognitive and motor impairment, yet with seizures that settle down in late childhood. Tooth hypoplasia or hypodontia remains the peculiar feature. The SLC13A5 gene should be screened in neonatal epileptic encephalopathies; its recessive inheritance has relevance for genetic counseling.