bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Accuracy of artificial intelligence‐assisted detection of esophageal cancer and neoplasms on endoscopic images: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Zhang Si Min , Wang Yong Jun , Zhang Shu Tian 
Published: April 2021

ObjectiveTo investigate systematically previous studies on the accuracy of artificial intelligence (AI)‐assisted diagnostic models in detecting esophageal neoplasms on endoscopic images so as to provide scientific evidence for the effectiveness of these models.MethodsA literature search was conducted on the PubMed, EMBASE and Cochrane Library databases for studies on the AI‐assisted detection of esophageal neoplasms on endoscopic images published up to December 2020. A bivariate mixed‐effects regression model was used to calculate the pooled diagnostic efficacy of AI‐assisted system. Subgroup analyses and meta‐regression analyses were performed to explore the sources of heterogeneity. The effectiveness of AI‐assisted models was also compared with that of the endoscopists.ResultsSixteen studies were included in the systematic review and meta‐analysis. The pooled sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative likelihood ratios, diagnostic odds ratio and area under the summary receiver operating characteristic curve regarding AI‐assisted detection of esophageal neoplasms were 94% (95% confidence interval [CI] 92%‐96%), 85% (95% CI 73%‐92%), 6.40 (95% CI 3.38‐12.11), 0.06 (95% CI 0.04‐0.10), 98.88 (95% CI 39.45‐247.87) and 0.97 (95% CI 0.95‐0.98), respectively. AI‐based models performed better than endoscopists in terms of the pooled sensitivity (94% [95% CI 84%‐98%] vs 82% [95% CI 77%‐86%, P < 0.01).ConclusionsThe use of AI results in increased accuracy in detecting early esophageal cancer. However, most of the included studies have a retrospective study design, thus further validation with prospective trials is required.
Co‐producing a fire and seasons calendar to support renewed Indigenous cultural fire management
Authors: McKemey Michelle B. ,   Banbai Rangers, Ens Emilie J. , Hunter John T. , Ridges Malcolm , Costello Oliver , Reid Nick C. H. 
Published: April 2021

AbstractIndigenous knowledge emphasises the importance of cultural connections between humans and the biophysical world. In the face of threats to the maintenance and transfer of Indigenous knowledge, novel approaches such as seasonal calendars are emerging as tools to share knowledge and guide management of natural and cultural resources. The renewal of Indigenous cultural fire management in southeast Australia provided an opportunity to explore whether the co‐production of a fire and seasons calendar, using Western and Indigenous knowledges, can support cultural fire management. We present a case study of cross‐cultural collaboration between scientists and the Banbai Aboriginal rangers at Wattleridge Indigenous Protected Area, New South Wales. We reviewed literature from various disciplines (archaeological, ethnohistorical, Indigenous and ecological) and undertook participatory action research and interviews to collate relevant information. This was synthesised in Winba = Fire, the Banbai Fire and Seasons Calendar, which is used by the Banbai rangers to guide cultural burning, share cross‐cultural knowledge and increase awareness of Indigenous cultural fire management. The process of co‐producing knowledge, revitalising culture, caring for Country, working together and supporting self‐determination is relevant for many Indigenous communities around the world.
Patient demographics and management landscape of metastatic colorectal cancer in the third‐line setting: Real‐world data in an australian population
Authors: Min Sandy Tun , Roohullah Aflah , Tognela Annette , Jalali Azim , Lee Margaret , Wong Rachel , Shapiro Jeremy , Burge Matthew , Yip Desmond , Nott Louise , Zimet Allan , Lee Belinda , Dean Andrew , Steel Simone , Wong Hui‐Li , Gibbs Peter , Lim Stephanie Hui‐Su 
Published: April 2021

AbstractBackgroundColorectal cancer is the third most common cancer and second leading cause of cancer mortality in Australia, thus carrying a significant disease burden.AimsThis analysis aims to explore real‐world treatment landscape of metastatic colorectal cancer in the third‐line setting.MethodsWe retrospectively analysed treatment of recurrent and advanced colorectal cancer (TRACC) registry database from 2009 onwards. Patients treated with palliative intent who progressed after two lines of therapies were included. One treatment line was defined as any combination of systemic therapy given until progression.ResultsOut of 1820 patients treated palliatively, 32% (590 patients) met study criteria. Of these, 43% (254 patients) proceeded to third‐line therapy, equating to 14% of all metastatic patients. In KRAS mutant or unknown tumours (97 patients), fluoropyrimidine (FP)‐oxaliplatin combination was the most common choice (51%), followed by FP‐irinotecan (15%), trifluridine/tipiracil (11%), mono‐chemotherapy (10%), regorafenib (5%) and others (7%). Majority of FP‐doublet (83%) was given as rechallenge. In 157 patients with KRAS wildtype disease, monotherapy with EGFR inhibitor was most commonly used (41%), followed by EGFR inhibitor with chemotherapy (20%), FP‐doublet (18%), mono‐chemotherapy (6%), trifluridine/tipiracil (6%), regorafenib (1%) and others (8%). Median overall survival was 7.1 months (range 0.4‐41.2), and median time on third‐line treatment was 3 months (range 0.1‐40).ConclusionsIn real‐world Australian population, treatment choices differed based on KRAS status and will likely change with the availability of newer drugs on the pharmaceutical benefits scheme. Survival outcomes are comparable to newer agents in clinical trials for select patients.
Evaluation of palliative treatments in unresectable pancreatic cancer
Authors: Choi Colin Chan‐Min , Choi Julian , Houli Nezor , Smith Marty , Usatoff Val , Lipton Lara , Chan Steven 
Published: April 2021

AbstractBackgroundPancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) presents as unresectable disease in 80% of patients. Limited Australian data exists regarding management and outcome of palliative management for PDAC. This study aims to: (i) identify patients with PDAC being managed with palliative intent; (ii) assess the type of palliative management being used.MethodsA prospectively maintained pancreatic database at Western Health (2015–2017) was used to identify patient demographics; stage and multidisciplinary decision regarding resectability and operative interventions; palliative care; use of chemotherapy, radiotherapy and; management of exocrine and endocrine insufficiency. Data on chemotherapy use, number of hospital admissions, emergency department attendances and intensive care unit admissions 30 days prior to death were recorded.ResultsOne‐hundred and eleven patients had diagnosis of PDAC, 15% with locally advanced and 45% with metastatic PDAC. Among the locally advanced and metastatic PDAC, 48% received biliary stent insertions, 93% had palliative care referral, 45% received palliative chemotherapy and 10% received radiotherapy. Dietitian referral occurred in 79% and 36% were prescribed with a pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy. Diabetes mellitus was present in 52% of which 31% was new onset. Within 30 days prior to death, 11% patients received palliative chemotherapy, 32% were hospitalized and 11% visited an emergency department more than once. Sixty‐five percent died in hospital.ConclusionA high proportion of patients diagnosed with locally advanced and metastatic PDAC received palliative care referrals and appropriate level of end‐of‐life care. Further prospective studies are necessary, examining the management and impacts of pancreatic insufficiency in this group.
Impact of ultrasound on inguinal hernia repair rates in Australia: a population‐based analysis
Authors: Williams Michael L. , McCarthy Alexander S. E. , Lord Sally J. , Aczel Thomas , Brooke‐Cowden Geoffrey L. 
Published: April 2021

AbstractBackgroundInguinal hernias are a common pathology that often requires surgical management. The use of groin ultrasound (GU) to investigate inguinal hernias is a growing area of concern as an inefficient use of healthcare resources. Our aim was to assess changes in the rates of GU and the impact on surgical practice.MethodsMedicare Item Reports and the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare Database were used to estimate annual GU and inguinal hernia repair (IHR) rates per 100 000 population for the period 2000/2001–2017/2018. Pearson's correlation coefficients and linear regression analyses were performed to assess associations between these variables.ResultsOver the 18‐year period, GU rates increased 13‐fold from 88 to 1174 per 100 000 population. Overall, total IHR rates decreased from 217 to 192 per 100 000. Overall, unilateral IHR rates have decreased (182–146 per 100 000), bilateral IHRs have increased (35–46 per 100 000), laparoscopic IHR has increased (30–86 per 100 000) and open surgery has declined (187–106 per 100 000). The increase in GU rates were strongly associated with the decrease in unilateral (r = −0.936, P = <0.001) and increase in bilateral IHR rates (r = 0.924, P = <0.001).ConclusionThe use of GU has increased substantially, potentially representing an unnecessary cost to the healthcare system. Rising GU rates are not associated with an increase in IHR, however, may contribute to the increasing rates of bilateral IHRs. This study supports the opinion that more extensive clinical and health policy initiatives are needed in Australia to address this health issue.
3D human liver spheroids for translational pharmacology and toxicology
Authors: Ingelman‐Sundberg Magnus , Lauschke Volker M. 
Published: April 2021

AbstractDrug development is a failure‐prone endeavour, and more than 85% of drugs fail during clinical development, showcasing that current preclinical systems for compound selection are clearly inadequate. Liver toxicity remains a major reason for safety failures. Furthermore, all efforts to develop pharmacological therapies for a variety of chronic liver diseases, such as non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and fibrosis, remain unsuccessful. Considering the time and expense of clinical trials, as well as the substantial burden on patients, new strategies are thus of paramount importance to increase clinical success rates. To this end, human liver spheroids are becoming increasingly utilized as they allow to preserve patient‐specific phenotypes and functions for multiple weeks in culture. We here review the recent application of such systems for i) predictive and mechanistic analyses of drug hepatotoxicity, ii) the evaluation of hepatic disposition and metabolite formation of low clearance drugs and iii) the development of drugs for metabolic and infectious liver diseases, including NASH, fibrosis, malaria and viral hepatitis. We envision that with increasing dissemination, liver spheroids might become the new gold standard for such applications in translational pharmacology and toxicology.
Utilisation of cytological samples for multiplex immunofluorescence assay
Authors: Tobar Laura Garcia , Villalba‐Esparza María , Abengozar‐Muela Marta , Alvarez Gigli Laura , Echeveste José I. , de Andrea Carlos E. , Lozano María D. 
Published: April 2021

AbstractObjectiveUnderstanding the immune environment of non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is important for designing effective anticancer immunotherapies. We describe the use of multiplex immunofluorescence (mIF) assays to enable characterisation of the tumour‐infiltrating immune cells and their interactions, both across and within immune subtypes.MethodsSix cytological samples of NSCLC taken by transoesophageal ultrasound‐guided fine needle aspiration were tested with an mIF assay designed to detect the expression of key immune cell markers such as CD3, CD8, CD20, CD11b, and CD68. Pan‐cytokeratin was used to detect the NSCLC cells. Fluorescence images were acquired on a Vectra‐Polaris Automated Quantitative Pathology Imaging System (Akoya Biosciences).ResultsMIF assay was able to reliably detect and quantify the myeloid cell markers CD11b, CD68, CD3+ and CD8+ T cells, and CD20+ B lymphocytes on cytological samples of NSCLC. Whole‐tissue analysis and its correlation with the corresponding H&E stains allowed a better understanding of the tissue morphology and the relationship between tumour and stroma compartments. Additionally, a uniform, specific, and correct staining pattern was seen for every immune marker.ConclusionThe implementation of mIF assay on cytological samples taken with minimally invasive methods seems feasible and can be used to explore the immune environment of NSCLC.
Sexual selection in a tropical toad: Do female toads choose brighter males in a species with rapid colour change?
Authors: Gardner Katrina M. , Mennill Daniel J. , Savi Lincoln M. , Shangi Nicole E. , Doucet Stéphanie M. 
Published: April 2021

AbstractConspicuous visual signals play an important role in animal communication, both within and between species. Bright, colourful signals allow animals to discriminate between individuals and can inform behavioural decisions and social interactions. In many instances, conspicuous colouration appears to have evolved through sexual selection via female mate choice or male–male competition. Male Neotropical yellow toads,Incilius luetkenii, display bright‐yellow colouration during their brief explosive mating events and then revert to a cryptic, female‐like, brown colour following amplexus and fertilization. Recent research has revealed that the yellow colouration of males may serve as a sex identification signal and that males remain yellow in the presence of both males and females but darken without conspecific stimulus. However, there is considerable variation in the brightness of yellow colouration in courting males, ranging from dull olive‐green to vibrant lemon‐yellow. The function of this variation remains unknown. In this study, we conducted two‐choice model presentation trials to test one mechanism of sexual selection that may drive this variation: intersexual selection. Specifically, we set out to determine whether females differentiate between males based on their colouration. We presented females with two hyper‐realistic robotic model toads, with one model painted to match a bright‐yellow male and the other a dull‐yellow male. Using several metrics of choice, we found that females did not show a preference for bright or dull colouration. Our research suggests that variation in the intensity of male breeding colouration is not driven by female choice in this species. Our study is consistent with the idea that there may be limited opportunity for female choice to influence male‐trait expression in explosive breeders. Future research will address whether intrasexual selection may influence colour variation in male yellow toads.
Compression‐induced crack initiation and growth in flawed rocks: A review
Authors: Zhou Xiao‐Ping , Zhang Jian‐Zhi , Yang Sheng‐Qi , Berto Filippo 
Published: April 2021

AbstractThe purpose of this review is to discuss the development and the contribution of the experiments and numerical simulations in compression‐induced failure characteristics of flawed rock specimens. Investigation is essential to understand the fundamental failures occurring in a rock bridge, for assessing anticipated and actual performances of the structures built on or in rock masses. The review begins by representing and discussing compression‐induced crack initiation and growth in flawed rocks and explaining the significance of studying these issues in Section 1. The crack initiation and growth behaviors in flawed rocks under uniaxial, biaxial, and triaxial compressions are described in depth in Section 2 where it is expected to distinguish 2‐D crack growth from 3‐D crack growth. After that, the failure characteristics of flawed rock specimens due to temperature treatments and hydraulic pressure are systematically reviewed. Numerical studies of the compression‐induced failure characteristics of flawed rock specimens based on different numerical theories and numerical models are comprehensively evaluated in Section 3. In Section 4, the new findings obtained recently from experimental and numerical studies are drawn. Finally, some aspects of prospective research and a brief summary are presented in Sections 5 and 6.
Behavioural effects of cage systems on theG93ASuperoxide Dismutase 1transgenic mouse model for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Guerra Stefan , Chung Roger , Yerbury Justin , Karl Tim 
Published: April 2021

AbstractEnvironmental factors inherent to animal facilities can impact on the neuro‐behavioural phenotype of laboratory mice and genetic mouse models for human diseases. Many facilities have upgraded from traditional ‘open filter top’ cages (FT) to individually ventilated cage (IVC) systems, which have been shown to modify various behavioural responses of laboratory mice. Importantly, the impact of IVC housing on theG93A superoxide dismutase 1mouse model of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is currently unknown. Male and female wild type‐like (WT) and heterozygousSOD1G93Amice were group‐housed in FT or IVC systems from PND 30 ± 5 onwards. Body weight and motor function were assessed weekly from 15 weeks onward. Mice were also tested for cognitive abilities (i.e., fear conditioning and social recognition memory) and sensorimotor gating (i.e., prepulse inhibition: PPI).SOD1G93Amice lost body weight, and their motor function degenerated over time compared with control littermates. Motor impairments developed faster whenSOD1G93Afemales were housed in IVCs. Context and cuefreezingwere increased inSOD1G93Afemales compared with controls, whereas allSOD1G93Amice exhibited lower acoustic startle and PPI than WT mice. IVC housing led to an increase in cuefreezingin males and reduced the severity of PPI deficits inSOD1G93Afemales. Overall, IVC housing impacted moderately on theSOD1G93Aphenotype but central behavioural deficits were still evident across housing conditions. Nonetheless, our findings indicate the importance of assessing the effect of cage system in genetic mouse models as these systems can modulate the magnitude and onset of genotypic differences.
Study of melanocyte density and epidermal thickness in vulvar lichen sclerosus lesions
Authors: Fu Yu , Bao Yingqiu , Li Ziyuan , Gao Xiaoman , Chang Jianmin 
Published: April 2021

AbstractObjectiveThis study aimed to analyze changes in melanocyte density and epidermal thickness in vulvar lichen sclerosus (VLS).MethodsVulvar skin tissues were collected from 15 VLS female patients in Beijing Hospital, classified into early (n = 7) and late VLS (n = 8) groups according to pathological manifestations. Melanocyte density and full epidermal and cell‐layer (from the bottom of the stratum corneum to that of the basal layer) thickness were calculated using an image analysis software. The control group was normal vulvar skin tissues from 15 females after plastic surgery.ResultsThe early VLS (0.170 ± 0.071 µm) and late VLS (0.110 ± 0.035 µm) groups had significantly lower densities of epidermal melanocytes than the control group (0.275 ± 0.036) (F = 36.426, P < 0.001). The cell‐layer thickness did not differ between the early VLS (154.603 ± 121.984 µm) and control (176.974 ± 80.296 µm) groups (P = 0.899) but significantly decreased in the late VLS group (83.455 ± 37.129 µm) compared to the control group (P = 0.003).ConclusionsMelanocyte density decreased in early and late VLS. The full epidermal and cell‐layer thickness did not significantly change in early VLS, but the cell‐layer thickness decreased in late VLS.
Do we need skin toxicity? Association of immune checkpoint inhibitor and tyrosine kinase inhibitor‐related cutaneous adverse events with outcomes in metastatic renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Corona‐Rodarte Eduardo , Olivas‐Martínez Antonio , Remolina‐Bonilla Yuly A. , Domínguez‐Cherit Judith G. , Lam Elaine T. , Bourlon Maria T. 
Published: April 2021

AbstractIntroductionSkin toxicity is a common, expected side effect of tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) and immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) used for metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC). We evaluated the association between skin toxicity and clinical efficacy outcomes of these agents in mRCC patients.Methods and MaterialsData were obtained from patients with mRCC treated with TKIs and/or ICIs from 2016–2019 at a referral hospital in Mexico City. Clinical outcomes were compared among patients who developed treatment‐related cutaneous adverse events (AEs) and those without skin toxicity.ResultsThirty‐five patients with mRCC were identified who were treated with sunitinib (51.4%), nivolumab plus cabozantinib (28.6%), nivolumab monotherapy (17.1%), or ipilimumab plus nivolumab plus cabozantinib (2.9%). Any grade skin toxicity was seen in 65.7% of patients. With a median follow‐up of 14 months, radiological responses were as follows: 48.6% stable disease, 25.7% partial response, and 2.8% complete response. Compared to subjects without skin toxicity, patients who developed cutaneous AEs had higher disease control rate 91.3% vs. 50.0% (P = 0.019) and superior 12‐month overall survival rate 91% vs. 67% (P = 0.01), respectively. There was a trend toward improved median progression‐free survival (16 months vs. 5 months, P = 0.13). Grade 1–2 cutaneous toxicity was found to be predictive for disease control, with HR 2.72 (95% CI 1.1–6.71, P = 0.030), and all grade cutaneous toxicity was prognostic of overall survival, with HR 0.18 (95% CI 0.04–0.91, P = 0.039).ConclusionCutaneous AEs are associated with improved overall survival and response in patients with mRCC treated with immunotherapy and/or TKIs.
Perceived social support in Chinese family caregivers of patients with dementia
Authors: Li Jufang , Gao Gexin , Zeng Yawei , Wu Yuping , Zhu Xiaoling , Xu Hongbo 
Published: April 2021

AbstractAimThis study aimed to describe levels of social support and explore the factors predictive of social support for Chinese family caregivers of patients with dementia.BackgroundSocial support levels and their predictive factors in Chinese dementia caregivers have not been well documented, which need to be further clarified to provide a basis for creating effective social support strategies.MethodsThis was a cross‐sectional study with 91 participants who completed a demographic questionnaire and the Social Support Rating Scale from 2015 to 2016.ResultsChinese family caregivers of patients with dementia received moderate social support. Caregivers' subjective support domain scores and support utilization domain scores were significantly lower than those of the normal Chinese population, whereas caregivers' total social support scores were higher than those of the normal Chinese population. Family caregivers' monthly household income, educational level and place of residence were predictors of their own social support.ConclusionSocial support in Chinese caregivers of patients with dementia needs to be improved, especially the subjective support and support utilization. Healthcare professionals should pay special attention to caregivers with a lower monthly household income and educational level and caregivers who lived in the suburban area.