bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Early relapse after high‐dose melphalan autologous stem cell transplant predicts inferior survival and is associated with high disease burden and genetically high‐risk disease in multiple myeloma
Authors: Bygrave Ceri , Pawlyn Charlotte , Davies Faith , Craig Zoe , Cairns David , Hockaday Anna , Jenner Matthew , Cook Gordon , Drayson Mark , Owen Roger , Gregory Walter , Morgan Gareth , Jackson Graham , Kaiser Martin 
Published: June 2020

SummaryPredicting patient outcome in multiple myeloma remains challenging despite the availability of standard prognostic biomarkers. We investigated outcome for patients relapsing early from intensive therapy on NCRI Myeloma XI. Relapse within 12 months of autologous stem cell transplant was associated with markedly worse median progression‐free survival 2 (PFS2) of 18 months and overall survival (OS) of 26 months, compared to median PFS2 of 85 months and OS of 91 months for later relapsing patients despite equal access to and use of subsequent therapies, highlighting the urgent need for improved outcome prediction and early intervention strategies for myeloma patients.
L‐DEP regimen salvage therapy for paediatric patients with refractory Epstein‐Barr virus‐associated haemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis
Authors: Zhao Yunze , Li Zhigang , Zhang Li , Lian Hongyun , Ma Honghao , Wang Dong , Zhao Xiaoxi , Zhang Qing , Wang Tianyou , Zhang Rui 
Published: June 2020

SummaryEpstein–Barr virus‐associated haemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (EBV‐HLH) is one of the most common subtypes of secondary HLH. However, more than 30% of patients do not respond to traditional treatment. Here, we investigated the efficacy and safety of the L‐DEP regimen as a salvage therapy for paediatric refractory EBV‐HLH. We retrospectively analysed 26 paediatric patients with refractory EBV‐HLH who received the L‐DEP regimen at Beijing Children’s Hospital from 1 January 2016 to 31 March 2019. Five of the patients achieved complete response (CR) and 11 achieved partial response (PR), indicating an overall response rate of 61·5% (CR + PR). Ten of the 16 patients who achieved CR or PR received allogenic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo‐HSCT), and seven were still alive at the last follow‐up on 30 April 2020. Two of the 10 patients who did not respond were alive after allo‐HSCT. Major side effects included increased amylase, bone marrow suppression and coagulation disorders, though these could be controlled by supportive therapy in most cases. Thus, we conclude that the L‐DEP regimen is an effective and relatively safe salvage therapy for children with refractory EBV‐HLH. This regimen also provides a bridge to allo‐HSCT.
Coevolution of body size and metabolic rate in vertebrates: a life‐history perspective
Authors: Kozłowski Jan , Konarzewski Marek , Czarnoleski Marcin 
Published: June 2020

ABSTRACTDespite many decades of research, the allometric scaling of metabolic rates (MRs) remains poorly understood. Here, we argue that scaling exponents of these allometries do not themselves mirror one universal law of nature but instead statistically approximate the non‐linearity of the relationship between MR and body mass. This ‘statistical’ view must be replaced with the life‐history perspective that ‘allows’ organisms to evolve myriad different life strategies with distinct physiological features. We posit that the hypoallometric allometry of MRs (mass scaling with an exponent smaller than 1) is an indirect outcome of the selective pressure of ecological mortality on allocation ‘decisions’ that divide resources among growth, reproduction, and the basic metabolic costs of repair and maintenance reflected in the standard or basal metabolic rate (SMR or BMR), which are customarily subjected to allometric analyses. Those ‘decisions’ form a wealth of life‐history variation that can be defined based on the axis dictated by ecological mortality and the axis governed by the efficiency of energy use. We link this variation as well as hypoallometric scaling to the mechanistic determinants of MR, such as metabolically inert component proportions, internal organ relative size and activity, cell size and cell membrane composition, and muscle contributions to dramatic metabolic shifts between the resting and active states. The multitude of mechanisms determining MR leads us to conclude that the quest for a single‐cause explanation of the mass scaling of MRs is futile. We argue that an explanation based on the theory of life‐history evolution is the best way forward.
The ecosystem services provided by social insects: traits, management tools and knowledge gaps
Authors: Elizalde Luciana , Arbetman Marina , Arnan Xavier , Eggleton Paul , Leal Inara R. , Lescano María Natalia , Saez Agustín , Werenkraut Victoria , Pirk Gabriela I. 
Published: June 2020

ABSTRACTSocial insects, i.e. ants, bees, wasps and termites, are key components of ecological communities, and are important ecosystem services (ESs) providers. Here, we review the literature in order to (i) analyse the particular traits of social insects that make them good suppliers of ESs; (ii) compile and assess management strategies that improve the services provided by social insects; and (iii) detect gaps in our knowledge about the services that social insects provide. Social insects provide at least 10 ESs; however, many of them are poorly understood or valued. Relevant traits of social insects include high biomass and numerical abundance, a diversity of mutualistic associations, the ability to build important biogenic structures, versatile production of chemical defences, the simultaneous delivery of several ESs, the presence of castes and division of labour, efficient communication and cooperation, the capacity to store food, and a long lifespan. All these characteristics enhance social insects as ES providers, highlighting their potential, constancy and efficiency as suppliers of these services. In turn, many of these traits make social insects stress tolerant and easy to manage, so increasing the ESs they provide. We emphasise the need for a conservation approach to the management of the services, as well as the potential use of social insects to help restore habitats degraded by human activities. In addition, we stress the need to evaluate both services and disservices in an integrated way, because some species of social insects are among the most problematic invasive species and native pests. Finally, we propose two areas of research that will lead to a greater and more efficient use of social insects as ES providers, and to a greater appreciation of them by producers and decision‐makers.
Analysis of technical complications and risk factors for failure of combined tooth‐implant‐supported fixed dental prostheses
Authors: Chrcanovic Bruno Ramos , Kisch Jenö , Larsson Christel 
Published: June 2020

AbstractBackgroundThe oral rehabilitation with fixed restorations supported by the combination of teeth and dental implants has been advocated in some cases.PurposeTo assess the clinical outcomes of these prostheses. Fixed restorations supported by the combination of teeth and dental implants.Materials and methodsThis retrospective study included all patients treated with combined tooth‐implant‐supported fixed dental prostheses (FDPs) at one specialist clinic. Abutment/prosthesis failure and technical complications were the outcomes analyzed.ResultsA total of 85 patients with 96 prostheses were included, with a mean follow‐up of 10.5 years. Twenty prostheses failed. The estimated cumulative survival rate was 90.7%, 84.8%, 69.9%, and 66.2% at 5, 10, 15, and 20 years, respectively. The failure of tooth and/or implant abutments in key positions affected the survival of the prostheses. There were seven reasons for prostheses failure, with the loss of abutments exerting a significant influence. Bruxism was possibly associated with failures. Prostheses with cantilevers did not show a statistically significant higher failure rate. No group had a general higher prevalence of technical complications in comparison to the other groups.ConclusionsAlthough combined tooth‐implant‐supported FDPs are an alternative treatment option, this study has found that across 20 years of service nearly 35% the prostheses may fail.
Exosomes secreted by chronic hepatitis B patients with PNALT and liver inflammation grade ≥ A2 promoted the progression of liver cancer by transferring miR‐25‐3p to inhibit the co‐expression of TCF21 and HHIP
Authors: Ouyang Yi , Tang Yujing , Fu Lei , Peng Shifang , Wu Wanfeng , Tan Deming , Fu Xiaoyu 
Published: June 2020

AbstractObjectivesThe current study aimed to investigate the mechanism by which exosomes secreted by CHB patients with PNALT and liver inflammation grade (≥A2) affected the development of liver cancer.Materials and methodsGene expression was assessed by RT‐PCR, Western blotting and immunohistochemistry. CCK‐8, colony formation, transwell, scratch‐wound and flow cytometry assays were used to detect cell viability, proliferation, apoptosis and metastasis. The interaction of TCF21 and HHIP was assessed by co‐immunoprecipitation assay. Luciferase reporter was used to detect the combination of TCF21/HHIP and miR‐25‐3p. Xenograft studies in nude mice manifested tumour growth ability of miR‐25‐3p. Bioinformatics analyses were conducted using TargetScan, EVmiRNA, TCGA, GEO, DAVID, COEXPEDIA, UALCAN, UCSC and the Human Protein Atlas databases.ResultsCHB‐PNALT‐Exo (≥A2) promoted the proliferation and metastasis of HepG2.2.15 cells. miR‐25‐3p was upregulated in CHB‐PNALT‐Exo (≥A2). miR‐25‐3p overexpression promoted cell proliferation and metastasis and was related to poor survival in patients with CHB‐PNALT (≥A2). The cell proliferation‐ and metastasis‐promoting functions of CHB‐PNALT‐Exo (≥A2) were abolished by miR‐25‐3p inhibitors. TCF21 directly interacted with HHIP. Inhibition of TCF21 or HHIP promoted cell proliferation and metastasis. Knockdown of TCF21 or HHIP counteracted the effects of CHB‐PNALT‐Exo (≥A2) containing miR‐25‐3p inhibitor on cell proliferation, metastasis and the expression of Ki67, E‐cadherin and caspase‐3/‐9.ConclusionsTransfer of miR‐25‐3p by CHB‐PNALT‐Exo promoted the development of liver cancer by inhibiting the co‐expression of TCF21 and HHIP.
Developmental dynamics between reading and math in elementary school
Authors: Erbeli Florina , Shi Qinxin , Campbell Aaron R. , Hart Sara A. , Woltering Steven 
Published: June 2020

AbstractReading and math attainment develop during elementary grades. Questions remain, though, about the co‐developmental nature of the relation between reading and math. This study examined dynamic, longitudinal pathways between reading and math in first through fourth grades. Participants of the study were 554 academically at‐risk children (Mage at the first assessment point = 6.57 years; SD = 0.38) from Texas Project Achieve. Children were assessed utilizing the Woodcock‐Johnson–III reading and math measures. Results from dynamic bivariate latent change score models indicated unidirectional longitudinal coupling effects from reading to math. Specifically, average and high levels of reading performance were associated with subsequent gains in math growth, in particular for below average performing children in math. In contrast, low levels of reading performance had negligible or no amplifying influences on change in math growth. The nature of the dynamics was replicated even when controlling for nonverbal cognitive abilities. Results demonstrated that good reading skills pave the way for children to develop their math skills. Such findings underscore the importance of considering reading performance in treating math difficulties.
An evaluation of university students' latent and self‐perceived digital competence in the use of mobile devices
Authors: Leví‐Orta Genoveva , Sevillano‐García Luisa , Vázquez‐Cano Esteban 
Published: June 2020

AbstractThis article presents an experimental study of the assessment made by university students of their level of digital competence in the use of mobile devices such as smartphones, laptops and tablets. The study was part of an investigation into ubiquitous learning with mobile devices and is based on the analysis of responses from a sample of 203 university students at eleven European and Latin American universities. Participants were asked questions about their performance on a set of digital activities that tested various components of digital competence. The analysis methodology was based on Item Response Theory (IRT). The survey data was analysed by applying a statistical model to represent the probability of obtaining an affirmative answer to each activity proposed. This enabled us to identify the difficulty and discrimination parameters of each activity. As an outcome of the study, measures on latent digital competence in individual participants were articulated. The results allowed us to describe how a number of devices and activities interacted. Understanding these types of interactions is necessary for a continued development of the evaluation of digital competence in students.
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: a clinical review
Authors: Masrori P. , Van Damme P. 
Published: June 2020

AbstractAmyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disorder affecting primarily the motor system, but in which extra‐motor manifestations are increasingly recognized. The loss of upper and lower motor neurons in the motor cortex, the brain stem nuclei and the anterior horn of the spinal cord gives rise to progressive muscle weakness and wasting. ALS often has a focal onset but subsequently spreads to different body regions, where failure of respiratory muscles typically limits survival to 2–5 years after disease onset. In up to 50% of cases, there are extra‐motor manifestations such as changes in behaviour, executive dysfunction and language problems. In 10%–15% of patients, these problems are severe enough to meet the clinical criteria of frontotemporal dementia (FTD). In 10% of ALS patients, the family history suggests an autosomal dominant inheritance pattern. The remaining 90% have no affected family members and are classified as sporadic ALS. The causes of ALS appear to be heterogeneous and are only partially understood. To date, more than 20 genes have been associated with ALS. The most common genetic cause is a hexanucleotide repeat expansion in the C9orf72 gene, responsible for 30%–50% of familial ALS and 7% of sporadic ALS. These expansions are also a frequent cause of frontotemporal dementia, emphasizing the molecular overlap between ALS and FTD. To this day there is no cure or effective treatment for ALS and the cornerstone of treatment remains multidisciplinary care, including nutritional and respiratory support and symptom management. In this review, different aspects of ALS are discussed, including epidemiology, aetiology, pathogenesis, clinical features, differential diagnosis, investigations, treatment and future prospects.
Outcome following repair of 63 sagittal fractures of the proximal phalanx in UK Thoroughbreds using either a triangular or linear screw configuration
Authors: Findley Judith A. , O’Neill Henry D. , Bladon Bruce M. 
Published: June 2020

AbstractBackgroundA triangular screw configuration has been suggested as preferable for repair of sagittal fractures of the proximal phalanx.ObjectiveTo assess the outcome of a triangular screw construct for repair of incomplete and complete minimally displaced proximal phalanx fractures under standing sedation in a population of Thoroughbred racehorses, compared with a cohort repaired using a linear screw configuration.Study designRetrospective cohort study.MethodsMedical records and radiographs were accessed to garner clinical data. Date of return to racing was determined from www.racingpost.com. Survival data were compared using log‐rank test.ResultsSixty‐two horses with one horse having two separate fractures. Fifty‐four fractures were repaired using triangular screw configuration, 10 with a linear screw configuration. 81% (43/53) of horses with triangular repair returned to racing at a median of 289 days (161‐482 days), 70% (7/10) horses with linear screws returned to racing at a median of 351 days (230‐815 days).Main limitationsA limited number of horses underwent conventional (linear) screw placement.ConclusionA triangular screw configuration placed in the standing sedated horse is an effective way to repair incomplete and complete minimally displaced proximal phalanx fractures. The rate of return to racing was excellent with a low rate of complications.
Mechanisms underlying leaf photosynthetic acclimation to warming and elevated CO2 as inferred from least‐cost optimality theory
Authors: Smith Nicholas G. , Keenan Trevor F. 
Published: June 2020

AbstractThe mechanisms responsible for photosynthetic acclimation are not well understood, effectively limiting predictability under future conditions. Least‐cost optimality theory can be used to predict the acclimation of photosynthetic capacity based on the assumption that plants maximize carbon uptake while minimizing the associated costs. Here, we use this theory as a null model in combination with multiple datasets of C3 plant photosynthetic traits to elucidate the mechanisms underlying photosynthetic acclimation to elevated temperature and carbon dioxide (CO2). The model‐data comparison showed that leaves decrease the ratio of the maximum rate of electron transport to the maximum rate of Rubisco carboxylation (Jmax/Vcmax) under higher temperatures. The comparison also indicated that resources used for Rubisco and electron transport are reduced under both elevated temperature and CO2. Finally, our analysis suggested that plants underinvest in electron transport relative to carboxylation under elevated CO2, limiting potential leaf‐level photosynthesis under future CO2 concentrations. Altogether, our results show that acclimation to temperature and CO2 is primarily related to resource conservation at the leaf level. Under future, warmer, high CO2 conditions, plants are therefore likely to use less nutrients for leaf‐level photosynthesis, which may impact whole‐plant to ecosystem functioning.
Registry of patients with congenital bleeding disorders and COVID‐19 in Madrid
Authors: Álvarez Román María Teresa , Butta Coll Nora , García Barcenilla Sara , Pérez González Lourdes , de la Plaza Collazo Ivan , De la Corte Rodríguez Hortensia , Romero Garrido Jose A. , Martín Salces Monica , Rivas Pollmar María Isabel , Cebanu Tamara , González‐Zorrilla Elena , Acuña Paula , Monzón Manzano Elena , Rodríguez Merchán Emérito Carlos , Trelles Martínez Roberto , Blanco Bañares María J. , Gutiérrez Alvariño Mar , Jiménez Yuste Victor 
Published: June 2020

AbstractIntroductionWe present the first registry of patients with congenital bleeding disorders and COVID‐19. The study has been carried out in the Community of Madrid, which has the highest number of cases in Spain. The objective is to understand the incidence of COVID‐19, the course of the disease if it occurs and the psychosocial and occupational impact on this population.MethodsWe included 345 patients (246 of haemophilia, 69 of von Willebrand Disease, two rare bleeding disorders and 28 carriers of haemophilia). A telephone survey was used to collect the data.ResultsForty‐two patients presented symptoms suggestive of infection by COVID‐19, and in six cases, the disease was confirmed by RT‐PCR. The cumulative incidence of our series was 1.73%. It is worth noting the complexity of the management of COVID‐19 in two patients on prophylaxis with non‐factor replacement therapy. Adherence to the prescribed treatment was maintained by 95.5% of patients. Although 94% were independent for daily living activities, 42.4% had a recognized disability and 58% required assistance, provided by the Madrid Haemophilia Association (Ashemadrid) in 75% of cases. Only 4.4% of consultations were held in person.ConclusionsPatients with congenital bleeding disorders infected with SARS‐CoV‐2 presented a mild course of the disease that did not require admission. Their identification and treatment by a specialist team from a Haemophilia Treatment Center are essential to make a correct assessment of the risk of haemorrhage/thrombosis. COVID‐19 had a major impact on the psychosocial aspects of these patients which must be remedied with recovery plans.
Ronald Jones's duality analysis as a foundation for applied general‐equilibrium modeling
Authors: Markusen James R. 
Published: June 2020

AbstractRonald Jones made seminal contributions to general‐equilibrium theory, moving away from an emphasis on the existence of equilibrium to algebraic formulations which enabled us to characterize key relationships between parameters and variables, such as that between tariffs and domestic factor prices and welfare. But the analysis remained limited in value for policy evaluation: the analysis was local, it provided only qualitative results, it was limited to very small models, and strictly interior solutions had to be assumed. The contribution of this paper is largely pedagogic and methodological. I show how the tools and approach pioneered by Jones can be generalized via the use of duality, complementarity and the Karush–Kuhn–Tucker theorem into a global, quantitative analysis of large changes in high‐dimensional models which also allows for regime changes and corner solutions. I then show how the resulting nonlinear complementarity problem directly translates into a numerical model using the General Algebraic Modeling System (GAMS).
Properties and release kinetics of pine bark incorporated agar and carrageenan film
Authors: Leelaphiwat Pattarin , Chanasinphawatkun Nutchapat , Prompa Kanokwan , Harnkarnsujarit Nathdanai 
Published: June 2020

SummaryEffects of plasticisers (glycerol, sorbitol and polypropylene glycol) and blend ratios on release behaviour, molecular vibration, mechanical and water barrier properties in agar and carrageenan films incorporating pine bark extract were investigated. Infrared spectra indicated hydrogen bonding of sorbitol and polypropylene glycol with film polymers which improved water diffusion and agar solubility but showed no effect in carrageenan films due to high water affinity. Hydrophilicity of the plasticisers modified dissolution of films and strongly affected the release behaviours of polyphenols and antioxidant capacity (DPPH• and FRAP). Film solubility showed high correlation to release behaviours. Fick’s diffusion kinetics fitted well to release behaviour of pine bark to aqueous media (water, 3% acetic acid and 10% ethanol). Agar gave a higher diffusion coefficient that was improved by the addition of sorbitol and polypropylene glycol. Increased diffusion coefficients enhanced degree of release, with some diversions suggesting that solvent modified matrices and, hence, release properties.
Volatile organic compounds in milk and mozzarella: Comparison between two different farming systems
Authors: Natrella Giuseppe , Gambacorta Giuseppe , De Palo Pasquale , Maggiolino Aristide , Faccia Michele 
Published: June 2020

SummaryThe volatile organic compounds (VOC) and sensory characteristics of milk and mozzarella from farms with different rearing systems were compared. Milk samples were taken from 9 intensive (INT) and 13 semi‐extensive farms (EXT) in the grazing period. VOC were analysed by SPME‐GC‐MS, and sensory evaluation was carried out by paired comparison. The volatile profiles of milks were significantly different: acetone and isopropyl alcohol characterised INT milk, pentanoic and decanoic acids, hexanal, ethylacetate, toluene, dimethyl sulphide characterised milk from EXT farms. Also mozzarella was discriminated by VOC, but only a few compounds derived from milk. Based on sensory evaluation, milk from the two sources can be distinguished by odour and colour, mozzarella only by colour. It was hypothesised that heating during the stretching phase caused volatilisation of many milk volatile compounds and formation new aroma active molecules that overcame the ‘primary odours’ of milk.