bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A multicenter study evaluation of the ClearLLab 10C panels
Authors: Hedley Benjamin D. , Cheng Guoyan , Keeney Michael , Kern Wolfgang , Padurean Adrian , Luider Joanne , Chin‐Yee Ian , Lowes Lori E. , Rohrbach Justin , Ortega Robert , Smit Astrid , Lo Ka‐Wai , Magari Robert , Tejidor Liliana
Published: July 2020

Multiparameter flow cytometry plays an important role in the diagnosis, staging, and monitoring of patients with a suspected hematological malignancy. The ClearLLab 10C Panels consist of four reagent panels (B‐Lineage Tube, T‐Lineage Tube, and 2 Myeloid Lineage Tubes), each consisting of 10 color/10 antibody conjugates utilizing Beckman Coulters proprietary dry format optimized for investigating patients with suspected leukemia or lymphoma. A multicenter study was conducted to evaluate the performance of the ClearLLab 10C Panels for qualitative assessment of normal versus abnormal phenotype in peripheral blood, bone marrow, and lymph node samples with suspected hematological malignancies. ClearLLab 10C was compared to laboratory developed tests (LDTs) and final clinical diagnosis. Four clinical sites were used to enroll patient's spent specimens (n = 453); three laboratories in North America and one in Europe. Of the 453 specimens, 198 had no malignancy and 255 contained an abnormal population. The diagnostic accuracy of the ClearLLab 10C Panels was achieved with sensitivity of 96% and specificity of 95% with respect to patient final clinical diagnosis. The agreement of phenotyping between ClearLLab10C Panels and LDTs was 98%. Any differences noted between ClearLLab 10C and LDT were due to either the presence of populations below the level of detection, the lack of clinical information provided to the evaluators, or marker(s) not present in these panels. Overall, the ClearLLab 10C demonstrated excellent agreement to LDTs and diagnosis. These four reagent panels can be adopted by individual laboratories to assess the presence or absence of malignancy.
Perceptions of genetic risk, testing, and counseling among individuals with eating disorders
Authors: Michael Julianne E. , Bulik Cynthia M. , Hart Sarah J. , Doyle Lauren , Austin Jehannine
Published: July 2020

Objective

Eating disorders develop as a result of genetic and environmental factors. Given that they are multifactorial conditions with a genetic component, they fall within the scope of practice for genetic counseling, but people with these conditions are rarely referred. The purpose of this study was to explore the perceptions of causes of eating disorders, recurrence risk, and interest in genetic counseling and testing among individuals with eating disorders.

Method

An online survey comprising both multiple choice and free form text questions, vignettes about genetic counseling, and the ED100K (validated eating disorder diagnostic questionnaire) was shared via support organizations and prominent bloggers in the eating disorders community to recruit individuals with a personal history of an eating disorder from November 2018 to February 2019.

Results

In total, 107 participants completed the survey. They perceived that both experiences and genetics were important factors in the development of their eating disorder. All responding participants overestimated the risk for recurrence of eating disorders in children, often by a large margin, and a notable minority reported that their experience with an eating disorder had a negative influence on their childbearing decisions. After imagined experience of genetic counseling, participants reported significantly decreased feelings of stigma, shame, and guilt. Most participants expressed interest in genetic counseling; fewer were interested in genetic testing.

Discussion

Genetic counseling may benefit individuals with eating disorders by providing accurate recurrence risk information and reducing feelings of guilt, stigma, and shame, which may in turn encourage earlier support seeking and recovery.
Self‐admission to inpatient treatment in anorexia nervosa: Impact on healthcare utilization, eating disorder morbidity, and quality of life
Authors: Strand Mattias , Bulik Cynthia M. , Gustafsson Sanna A. , von Hausswolff‐Juhlin Yvonne , Welch Elisabeth
Published: July 2020

Objective

Little evidence exists concerning the optimal model of inpatient care for patients with longstanding anorexia nervosa (AN). Self‐admission has been developed as a treatment tool whereby patients with a history of high healthcare utilization are invited to decide for themselves when brief admission is warranted. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of a self‐admission program on healthcare utilization, eating disorder morbidity, health‐related quality of life (HRQoL), and sick leave for patients with AN.

Method

In this cohort study, 29 participants with AN in a Swedish self‐admission program were compared to 113 patients with longstanding illness but low previous utilization of inpatient treatment, matched based on age, illness duration, and body‐mass index (BMI). Data on healthcare utilization, eating disorder morbidity, and sick leave were obtained from national population and eating disorder quality registers.

Results

Participants displayed a >50% reduction in time spent hospitalized at 12‐month follow‐up, compared to nonsignificant changes in the comparison group. A sensitivity analysis comparing participants to a moderate‐utilization comparison subgroup strengthened this observation. In contrast, the approach did not affect participants' BMI or eating disorder morbidity. Regarding HRQoL, mixed results were observed. In terms of sick leave, a beneficial but nonsignificant pattern was seen for participants.

Discussion

These findings indicate that self‐admission is a viable and helpful tool within a recovery model framework, even though it does not lead to symptom remission. In its proper context, self‐admission could potentially transform healthcare from crisis‐driven to pre‐emptive, and promote autonomy for severely ill patients.
Human‐geographic effects on variations in the population genetics of Sinotaia quadrata (Gastropoda: Viviparidae) that historically migrated from continental East Asia to Japan
Authors: Ye Bin , Saito Takumi , Hirano Takahiro , Dong Zhengzhong , Do Van Tu , Chiba Satoshi
Published: July 2020

Background

Anthropogenic factors potentially affect observed biogeographical patterns in population genetics, but the effects of ancient human activities on the original patterns created by natural processes are unknown. Sinotaia quadrata, a widely distributed freshwater snail species in East Asia, was used to investigate this issue. It is unclear whether S. quadrata in Japan was introduced from China and how different human uses and varying geographic patterns affect the contemporary population genetics between the two regions. Thus, we investigated the demography of S. quadrata and detected its genetic structure in Japan and continental East Asia.

Results

Sinotaia quadrata populations first naturally migrated from continental East Asia to Japan, which is associated with the ancient period in Japanese geohistory (about 70,000 years ago). They were then artificially introduced in association with agriculture expansion by human movements in two recent periods (about 8,000 and 1,200 years ago). Populations in different parts of Japan have their own sources. Natural migration in the ancient period and artificial introduction in the recent period suggest that the population distribution is affected by both the geohistory of East Asia and the history of human expansion. In the background of the historical migration and introduction, contemporary populations in the two regions show different genetic patterns. Population divergence levels were significantly correlated with geographical patterns in Japan and significantly correlated with human interventions variables in continental East Asia, suggesting that long‐term geographical isolation is likely the major factor that shaped the contemporary population genetics in Japan, while modern human uses are likely the major factor in continental East Asia.

Conclusions

Our preliminary results show a complex demography and unusual genetic patterns in the contemporary populations for a common freshwater snail and are of significance to determine the historical formation and contemporary patterns of biogeography in Japan and continental East Asia.
Variation in leaf traits at different altitudes reflects the adaptive strategy of plants to environmental changes
Authors: Liu Wensheng , Zheng Li , Qi Danhui
Published: July 2020

Leaf anatomical traits play key roles in plant functions and display evolutionary adaptive changes to suit the surrounding environment. To reveal the adaptive mode and mechanisms of plants in response to global warming, we analyzed leaf morphology and anatomical structures in three different species, Epilobium amurense Hausskn., Pedicularis densispica Franch., and Potentilla fulgens Wall. ex Hook., growing along an elevational gradient (3,000–4,600 m) in the Yulong Mountains. The results showed leaf length and width decreased, whereas leaf thickness increased with increasing altitude in all three species. Thickness of leaf upper epidermis, lower epidermis, palisade and spongy mesophyll, and main vein increased with rising altitude. Stomatal density in each species increased with rising elevation. These results illustrate that plants can adapt to the environmental changes that accompany high altitudes by decreasing leaf area and increasing leaf thickness, mesophyll tissue thickness, and stomatal density. Such morphological and anatomical plasticity would lead to lower transpiration rates, enhanced internal temperature and water status, and improved photosynthetic capability.
Canola Proteins Used as Co‐Emulsifiers with Phospholipids Influence Oil Oxidability, Enzymatic Lipolysis, and Fatty Acid Absorption in Rats
Authors: Bourgeois Christine , Couëdelo Leslie , Subirade Muriel , Cansell Maud
Published: July 2020

The objective of this study is to formulate and characterize oil‐in‐water emulsions with plant‐derived ingredients only, that is, proteins extracted from canola oil bodies, used as co‐emulsifiers with a canola lecithin, and to assess their suitability for food applications. Using the protein extract increases the chemical stability of rapeseed oil emulsions toward oxidation, based on the delay in conjugated diene formation under accelerated storage conditions, and favors pancreatic lipase activity. Bioaccessibility of rapeseed fatty acids is compared in lymph‐duct‐cannulated rats fed oil or emulsion. Fatty acid absorption by the intestine is increased by 78% when the oil is emulsified with canola proteins as co‐emulsifier: 28.7 mg mL−1 versus 16.1 mg mL−1 for oil (p < 0.05). In vitro lipolysis results are in overall agreement with fatty acid absorption in vivo.

Practical Applications: Results obtained for rapeseed oil emulsified with canola proteins and phospholipids suggest that increased bioaccessibility of n‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids could be offered in vegan food products.
UAV‐based training for fully fuzzy classification of Sentinel‐2 fluvial scenes
Authors: Carbonneau P. E. , Belletti B. , Micotti M. , Lastoria B. , Casaioli M. , Mariani S. , Marchetti G. , Bizzi S.
Published: July 2020

An estimated 76% of global stream area is occupied by channels with widths above 30 m. Sentinel‐2 imagery with resolutions of 10 m could supply information about the composition of river corridors at national and global scales. Fuzzy classification models that infer sub‐pixel composition could further be used to compensate for small channel widths imaged at 10 m of spatial resolution. A major challenge to this approach is the acquisition of suitable training data useable in machine learning models that can predict land‐cover type information from image radiance values. In this contribution, we present a method which combines unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and Sentinel‐2 imagery in order to develop a fuzzy classification approach capable of large‐scale investigations. Our approach uses hyperspatial UAV imagery in order to derive high‐resolution class information that can be used to train fuzzy classification models for Sentinel‐2 data where all bands are super‐resolved to a spatial resolution of 10 m. We use a multi‐temporal UAV dataset covering an area of 5.25 km2. Using a novel convolutional neural network (CNN) classifier, we predict sub‐pixel membership for Sentinel‐2 pixels in the fluvial corridor as divided into classes of water, vegetation and dry sediment. Our CNN model can predict fuzzy class memberships with median errors from −5% to +3% and mean absolute errors from 10% to 20%. We also show that our CNN fuzzy predictor can be used to predict crisp classes with accuracies from 95.5% to 99.9%. Finally, we use an example to show how a fuzzy CNN model trained with localized UAV data can be applied to longer channel reaches and detect new vegetation growth. We therefore argue that the novel use of UAVs as field validation tools for freely available satellite data can bridge the scale gap between local and regional fluvial studies. © 2020 The Authors. Earth Surface Processes and Landforms published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd
The Effect of Dietary Exposure to Coal Ash Contaminants within Food Ration on Growth and Reproduction in Daphnia magna
Authors: Mathews Teresa J. , Stevenson Louise M. , Pickhardt Paul C. , Murphy Cheryl A. , Nisbet Roger M. , Antczak Philipp , Garcia-Reyero Natàlia , Gergs Andre
Published: July 2020

Coal ash contains numerous contaminants and is the focus of regulatory actions and risk assessments due to environmental spills. We exposed Daphnia magna to a gradient of coal ash contamination under high and low food rations to assess the sublethal effects of dietary exposures. Whereas exposure to contaminants resulted in significant reductions in growth and reproduction in daphnids, low, environmentally relevant food rations had a much greater effect on these endpoints. Environ Toxicol Chem 2020;39:1998–2007. © 2020 SETAC
A full‐duplex ultra‐wideband over multimode fiber link for internet of things based smart home applications
Authors: Mirza Jawad , Ghafoor Salman , Hussain Ashiq
Published: July 2020

We propose a bidirectional ultra‐wideband (UWB) over multi‐mode fiber link for internet of things based smart home applications that is compatible with globally emerging green radio trend. Employing direct modulation and coupled with carrier‐reuse makes the proposed architecture cost efficient. UWB signals are all‐optically generated by converting phase modulation to intensity modulation by using a shaping filter that has a Gaussian profile. Bidirectional data at the rate of 2 Gbps is transmitted while achieving low receiver sensitivities.
Thermal performance of straight porous fin with variable thermal conductivity under magnetic field and radiation effects
Authors: Madhura K. R. , Babitha  , Kalpana G. , Makinde O. D.
Published: July 2020

The present numerical study reports the thermal performance of the straight porous fin with temperature‐dependent thermal conductivity, radiation, and magnetic field effects. The heat transfer model comprising the Darcy's law for simulating flow with solid‐fluid interactions in porous medium, Rosseland approximation for heat transfer through radiation, Maxwell equations for magnetic field effect and linearly varying temperature dependent thermal conductivity, results into highly nonlinear ordinary differential equation. The governing equation is solved using a finite difference scheme with suitable boundary conditions. The obtained solutions are physically interpreted by considering the impact of different nondimensional parameters on thermal performance, efficiency, and effectiveness of the system through plotted graphs. A detailed result with regard to the Nusselt number at the fin base is calculated. The results obtained are observed to be in excellent agreement with previous studies. From the study, it is observed that there is a significant effect on the thermal performance of the fin in the presence of porous constraints; also, results reveal that the nonlinear thermal conductivity parameter strengthens the thermal performance, efficiency, and effectiveness of the fin. Furthermore, the results of the study reveal that the rate of heat transfer of the fin increases with the increase in the magnetic parameter and radiation parameter.
Lessons from the 2018 drought for management of local water supplies in upland areas: A tracer‐based assessment
Authors: Fennell Jessica , Geris Josie , Wilkinson Mark E. , Daalmans Ronald , Soulsby Chris
Published: July 2020

Climate change, combined with industrial growth and increasing demand, could result in serious future water shortages and related water quality and temperature issues, especially for upland and humid areas. The extreme 2018 drought that prevailed throughout Europe provided an opportunity to investigate conditions likely to become more frequent in the future. For an upland rural catchment utilised by the distilling industry in North‐East Scotland, a tracer‐based survey combined discharge, electrical conductivity, stable water isotopes and temperature measurements to understand the impacts of drought on dominant stream water and industry water sources, both in terms of water quantity and quality (temperature). Results showed that water types (groundwater, ephemeral stream water, perennial stream water and water from small dams) were spatially distinct and varied more in space than time. With regards to the drought conditions we found that streams were largely maintained by groundwater during low flows. This also buffered stream water temperatures. Water types with high young water fractions were less resilient, resulting in streams with an ephemeral nature. Although our results demonstrated the importance of groundwater for drought resilience, water balance data revealed these storage reserves were being depleted and only recovered towards the end of the following year because of above average rainfall in 2019. Increased storage depletion under continued trends of extreme drought and water abstraction could be addressed via informed (nature based) management strategies which focus on increasing recharge. This may improve resilience to droughts as well as floods, but site specific testing and modelling are required to understand their potential. Results could have implications for management of water volumes and temperature, particularly for the sustainability of an historic industry, balancing requirements of rural communities and the environment.
A new spin on transitions of care: Pharmacists bridging the gap between inpatient and outpatient settings
Authors: Leistman Samantha , Nagel Angela K. , Ahmed‐Sarwar Nabila
Published: July 2020

Introduction

Benefits of pharmacist involvement during transitions of care (TOC) are well validated in the literature, but this role remains highly variable and institution specific. The purpose of this study is to describe the impact on acute health care utilization and overall patient outcomes when a pharmacist is added to a unique TOC team that encompasses both ambulatory and acute care settings.

Methods

This study is a retrospective review of an established TOC service that recently added a pharmacist. As part of this service, patients meeting prespecified criteria received pharmacist intervention during inpatient rounds and discharge follow‐up visit(s). The primary outcome was the change in number of acute health care encounters (emergency department [ED] visits and/or hospital readmissions). Secondary outcomes included type, frequency, and duration of patients' health care encounters, reason(s) for readmissions/ED visits, clinical pharmacist interventions, and changes in disease state‐specific outcomes. Patients served as their own control and results were compared between the 6 months prior to and after initial pharmacist intervention.

Results

In total, 44 patients were included. In the 6 months following initial pharmacist intervention, total number of acute health care encounters decreased by 39.5% (P < .001). Among patients readmitted or seen in the ED after initial pharmacist intervention, 28.3% occurred within 30 days of hospital discharge. Acute health care utilization was considered preventable in seven (29.2%) hospital readmissions and three (13.6%) ED visits. Average time between admissions increased by 6.6 days (P = .020). Provider‐pharmacist discharge co‐visits were completed for 75% of patients and a total of 182 pharmacist interventions were performed. Median time to first discharge follow‐up visit was six days (interquartile range, 4‐8).

Conclusion

Incorporating a pharmacist into an established TOC team, working across both the inpatient and outpatient settings, resulted in a significant decrease in number of acute health care encounters per patient and increased time out of the hospital.
Fumonisin B1‐induced mitochondrial toxicity and hepatoprotective potential of rooibos: An update
Authors: Sheik Abdul Naeem , Marnewick Jeanine L.
Published: July 2020

Fumonisins are a family of potentially carcinogenic mycotoxins produced byFusarium verticillioides. Several fumonisins have been identified with fumonisin B1(FB1) being the most toxic. The canonical mechanism of FB1toxicity is centered on its structural resemblance with sphinganine and consequent competitive inhibition of ceramide synthase and disruption of lipidomic profiles. Recent and emerging evidence at the molecular level has identified the disruption of mitochondria and excessive generation of toxic reactive oxygen species (ROS) as alternative/additional mechanisms of toxicity. The understanding of how these pathways contribute to FB1toxicity can lead to the identification of novel, effective approaches to protecting vulnerable populations. Natural compounds with antioxidant properties seem to protect against the induced toxic effects of FB1. Rooibos (Aspalathus linearis), endemic to South Africa, has traditionally been used as a medicinal herbal tea with strong scientific evidence supporting its anecdotal claims. The unique composition of phytochemicals and combination of metabolic activators, adaptogens and antioxidants make rooibos an attractive yet underappreciated intervention for FB1toxicoses. In the search for a means to address FB1toxicoses as a food safety problem in developing countries, phytomedicine and traditional knowledge systems must play an integral part. This review aims to summarize the growing body of evidence succinctly, which highlights mitochondrial dysfunction as a secondary toxic effect responsible for the FB1‐induced generation of ROS. We further propose the potential of rooibos to combat this induced toxicity based on its integrated bioactive properties, as a socio‐economically viable strategy to prevent and/or repair cellular damage caused by FB1.
Environmentally friendly green approach for the fabrication of silver oxide nanoparticles: Characterization and diverse biomedical applications
Authors: Abbasi Banzeer Ahsan , Iqbal Javed , Nasir Jamal Abdul , Zahra Syeda Anber , Shahbaz Amir , Uddin Siraj , Hameed Safia , Gul Farhat , Kanwal Sobia , Mahmood Tariq
Published: July 2020

In the present study, green silver nanoparticles (Ag2ONPs) were prepared from aqueous and ethanolic leaves extract of Rhamnus virgata in a facile, green, cost‐effective, and eco‐friendly way. The color changes from light brown to brownish black determined the synthesis of Ag2ONPs(Aq) and Ag2ONPs(Et). The phytofabrication of Ag2ONPs was confirmed using various spectroscopic and microscopic techniques: energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering, ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy, Fourier‐transform infrared, X‐ray powder diffraction, Raman, scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy. Detailed in vitro biological activities determined significant biopotentials for Ag2ONPs. The Ag2ONPs(Aq) and Ag2ONPs(Et) were investigated for anticancer potential against HUH‐7 (IC50: 9.075 μg/ml for Ag2O(Aq) and 25.66 μg/ml for Ag2O(Et)) and HepG2 (IC50: 25.18 μg/ml for Ag2O(Aq) and IC50: 27.74 μg/ml for Ag2O(Aq)) cell lines. Concentration‐dependent cytotoxicity was performed against brine‐shrimps (IC50: 36.04 μg/ml for Ag2O(Aq) and 28.82 μg/ml for Ag2O(Et)) and Leishmanial parasite (amastigotes and promastigotes). Disc‐diffusion method revealed significant antimicrobial activities. In addition, significant enzyme inhibitory activity and antiradical potentials were studied. The hemocompatible nature of Ag2ONPs(Aq) and Ag2ONPs(Et) was revealed using biocompatibility tests. In conclusion, the green Ag2ONPs(Aq) and Ag2ONPs(Et) are nontoxic and biocompatible and has shown significant biological activities. We further encourage in vivo studies to ensure biosafety and biocompatibility, so that they can be effectively utilized in nano‐pharmaceutical industries.
Beyond lipid peroxidation: Distinct mechanisms observed for POPC and POPG oxidation initiated by UV‐enhanced Fenton reactions at the air–water interface
Authors: Zhang Dongmei , Gong Chu , Wang Jie , Mu Chaonan , Wang Wei , Zhang Xinxing
Published: July 2020

Fenton or Fenton‐like reactions are ubiquitous in nature, and the hydroxyl radicals (·OH) generated in these reactions are accountable for a plethora of oxidation processes both in the environment and in vivo. Among these oxidation reactions, lipid oxidation initiated by ·OH radicals has long been oversimplified as a peroxidation mechanism, but in reality, it is a highly complicated process that can result in a large variety of products. Using the unique field‐induced droplet ionization mass spectrometry (FIDI‐MS) methodology that is capable of selective sampling of amphiphilic molecules that reside at the air–water interface, here, we show distinct mechanisms from the ultraviolet (UV)‐enhanced Fenton oxidations of two phospholipids, POPC and POPG, even though these two lipids possess the same functional groups that are vulnerable to ·OH attack. We postulate that it is the different packing densities that determine the permeability of ambient NO molecules into the monolayers, resulting in highly distinct reaction pathways and products. We anticipate that this work will be a wake‐up call that the lipid peroxidation mechanism is sometimes taken for granted and that lipid oxidation can be subtly affected by various factors that deserves deeper investigations.
Method for rapidly discovering active components in Yupingfeng granules by UPLC‐ESI‐Q‐TOF‐MS
Authors: Li Moying , Yue Xinyi , Gao Yongjian , Zhang Bei , Yuan Chunping , Wu Tong
Published: July 2020

Yupingfeng granules (YPFG) were isolated from a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formulation composed of three herbs (Astragali Radix, Atractylodis Macrocephalae Rhizoma, and Saposhnikoviae Radix). This formulation is used in TCM to tonify qi, and it can help strengthen exterior and reduce sweating. Nevertheless, the active components of YPFG remain unclear. In this study, the chemical constituents of YPFG were systematically characterized by ultra‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with electrospray ionization/ quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (UPLC‐ESI‐Q‐TOF‐MS). Fifty‐eight compounds, namely, 20 flavonoids, 19 saponins, nine organic acids, four volatile coumarins, three lactones, one alkaloid, and two other components, were identified. In addition, the constituents of YPFG with the potential for in vivo bioactivities following oral administration were investigated in Sprague–Dawley rats. Thirteen compounds, namely, 11 flavonoid‐related and 2 saponin‐related components, were detected in rat plasma. After enriching flavonoids and saponins in YPFG by extraction, the extracts and YPFG were administrated to immunosuppressed rats, respectively. Plasma samples were analyzed by UPLC‐ESI‐Q‐TOF‐MS, and principal component analysis (PCA) confirmed that the extracts had similar effects to YPFG. This method could discover active ingredients in YPFG quickly and provide a scientific basis for quality control and mechanism research.
Climate change impact assessment on water resources under RCP scenarios: A case study in Mundaú River Basin, Northeastern Brazil
Authors: Andrade Carolyne W. L. , Montenegro Suzana M. G. L. , Montenegro Abelardo A. A. , Lima José R. de S. , Srinivasan Raghavan , Jones Charles A.
Published: July 2020

Global climate predictions and possible environmental impacts have an increasing source of concern in recent years. Analyses of the impacts of climate change scenarios on regional hydrology are required to design effective adaptation strategies for specific river basins. This study focuses on assessment of future climate change impacts on water resources of the Mundaú River Basin (MRB), in Brazil, using the Soil Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) and Regional Climate Models (RCMs) Eta‐MIROC5 and Eta‐HadGEM2, for three time periods under two Representative Concentration Pathways (RCPs). In general, climate models predict that the MRB will experience significant annual precipitation decreases, between 0.4% (1,087.45 mm) and 25.3% (815.59 mm), in both scenarios (RCP 4.5 and RCP 8.5) respectively, when compared to the observed period (2003–2016). Maximum and minimum temperature increases up to 2.3°C and 0.65°C under the RCP 4.5 scenario, and up to 4.3°C and 2.2°C under the RCP 8.5 scenario. SWAT simulations predict substantial surface runoff decreases with a minimum average annual value of 21.3 mm for the RCP 8.5 in medium‐term. Additionally, actual evapotranspiration (ET) is predicted to decrease from 780.77 to a minimum of 648.1 mm, although increases in potential evapotranspiration (ET0) are expected. In general, annual streamflow also is expected to decrease, more severely under RCP 8.5 conditions, reaching a drop of approximately 66.7% (15.2 m3·s−1), compared to the observed period (45.5 m3·s−1). Seasonal streamflow is predicted to decrease for both models, in both rainy and dry seasons, except for medium‐term of the Eta‐HadGEM2. Although there are still some uncertainties associated with climate models, the findings from this study can assist water resource managers in management decisions for appropriate water use, development of public policies that favour sustainability, and adoption of mitigation and prevention practices to ensure water security in the basin.
Confocal scanning of intervertebral disc cells in3D: Inside alginate beads and in native microenvironment
Authors: Hernandez Paula A. , Jacobsen Timothy D. , Barati Zahra , Chahine Nadeen O.
Published: July 2020

The interaction between cells and their extracellular matrix (ECM) is crucial to maintain both tissue and cellular homeostasis. Indeed, cell phenotype is significantly affected by the 3D microenvironment. Although highly convenient, isolating cells from the intervertebral disc (IVD) and growing them in 2D on plastic or glass substrates, causes them to rapidly lose their phenotype and consequently alter their gene and protein expression. While characterization of cells in their native or simulated 3D environment is preferred, such approaches are complexed by limitations in phenotypic readouts. In the current article, we describe a detailed protocol to study nucleus pulposus cells in 3D—embedded in alginate as a permeable cell‐staining reservoir, as well as adaptation for cell staining and imaging in their native ECM. This method allows for detection of phenotypical and cytoskeletal changes in cells within native tissue or 3D alginate beads using confocal microscopy, without the need for histological processing.
Influence of testing environment and loading rate on intervertebral disc compressive mechanics: An assessment of repeatability at three different laboratories
Authors: Newell Nicolas , Rivera Tapia David , Rahman Tamanna , Lim Shiyin , O'Connell Grace D. , Holsgrove Timothy P.
Published: July 2020

In vitro mechanical testing of intervertebral discs is crucial for basic science and pre‐clinical testing. Generally, these tests aim to replicate in vivo conditions, but simplifications are necessary in specimen preparation and mechanical testing due to complexities in both structure and the loading conditions required to replicate in vivo conditions. There has been a growing interest in developing a consensus of testing protocols within the spine community to improve comparison of results between studies. The objective of this study was to perform axial compression experiments on bovine bone‐disc‐bone specimens at three institutions. No differences were observed between testing environment being air, with PBS soaked gauze, or a PBS bath (P > .206). A 100‐fold increase in loading rate resulted in a small (2%) but significant increase in compressive mechanics (P < .017). A 7% difference in compressive stiffness between Labs B and C was eliminated when values were adjusted for test system compliance. Specimens tested at Lab A, however, were found to be stiffer than specimens from Lab B and C. Even after normalizing for disc geometry and adjusting for system compliance, an ∼35% difference was observed between UK based labs (B and C) and the USA based lab (A). Large differences in specimen stiffness may be due to genetic differences between breeds or in agricultural feed and use of growth hormones; highlighting significant challenges in comparing mechanics data across studies. This research provides a standardized test protocol for the comparison of spinal specimens and provides steps towards understanding how location and test set‐up may affect biomechanical results.
Development of the PTSD‐Repository: A Publicly Available Repository of Randomized Controlled Trials for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
Authors: O'Neil Maya E. , Harik Juliette M. , McDonagh Marian S. , Cheney Tamara P. , Hsu Frances C. , Cameron David C. , Carlson Kathleen F. , Norman Sonya B. , Hamblen Jessica L.
Published: July 2020

Given the extensive research on posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) treatment, a single, updatable repository of data from PTSD treatment studies would be useful for clinical, research, and policy stakeholders. To meet this need, we established a preliminary dataset of abstracted PTSD trial data, which serve as the basis for the PTSD Trials Standardized Data Repository (PTSD‐Repository), maintained by the National Center for PTSD (NCPTSD). We followed systematic review methods to identify published randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of PTSD interventions. We consulted with a panel of experts to determine a priori inclusion criteria, ensure that we captured all relevant studies, and identify variables for abstraction. We searched multiple databases for materials published from 1980 to 2018 and reviewed reference lists of relevant systematic reviews and clinical practice guidelines. In total, 318 RCTs of PTSD interventions that enrolled almost 25,000 participants were included. We abstracted 337 variables across all studies, including study, participant, and intervention characteristics as well as results. In the present paper, we describe our methods and define data elements included in the data tables. We explain coding challenges, identify inconsistencies in reporting across study types, and discuss ways stakeholders can use PTSD‐Repository data to enhance research, education, and policy. The abstracted data are currently publicly available on the NCPTSD website and can be used for future systematic reviews and identifying research gaps and as an information resource for clinicians, patients, and family members.
The Impact of Family Separation and Worry About Family on Psychological Adjustment in Refugees Resettled in Australia
Authors: Fogden Georgia , Berle David , Steel Zachary
Published: July 2020

Few reliable predictors of postarrival psychological adjustment have been identified with regard to refugees once they arrive in their host country. We investigated the association between family separation and psychological symptoms in refugees resettled in Australia from 2013 to 2016. Participants were 1,495 adult refugees (M = 38.9 years, SD = 12.7) who participated in the Building a New Life in Australia population‐based study across 4 years. Participants were assessed for psychological distress and posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) using the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K6) and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder–8 (PTSD‐8), respectively. We used latent class growth analysis (LCGA) to identify latent longitudinal trajectories and binary logistic regression to assess the contribution of family predictor variables toward PTSD‐8 and K6 symptom trajectory class membership. The LCGA supported a four‐class solution for PTSS, categorized as improving PTSS (18.4%), persistently high PTSS (11.5%), resilient PTSS (57.3%), and deteriorating PTSS (12.6%). For the K6, LCGA supported a four‐class solution comprising classes categorized as persistently high psychological distress (PD; 7.0%), improving PD (17.3%), resilient PD (61.1%), and deteriorating PD (14.6%). Separation from family members did not independently predict the course of psychological symptoms; however, worry about family and friends contributed to the persistence of high PTSD‐8 scores, OR = 1.75, and deteriorating K6 scores, OR = 1.57. The current findings suggest persistently high or worsening psychological symptom trajectories during the postsettlement phase may be marked by worry about family and friends, in addition to older age and female gender, rather than separation alone.
Validation of a Parent Proxy Quality‐of‐Life Measure for Young Children With Hearing Loss
Authors: Yu Cathy Y. , Jeffe Donna B. , Kenna Margaret A. , Germiller John A. , Lieu Judith E.C.
Published: July 2020

Objectives

No hearing‐related quality of life (QL) questionnaire currently exists for children < 7 years. This study aimed to develop and evaluate the construct validity and reliability of a new parent‐proxy Preschool Hearing Environments and Reflection on Quality of Life (HEAR‐QL) questionnaire.

Methods

Parents of children 2 to 6 years old with any hearing loss (HL) were recruited from multiple sites. To evaluate the new measure's construct validity, participants completed a 70‐item preschool HEAR‐QL and validated questionnaires measuring hearing and communication functioning (Parents' Evaluation of Aural/Oral Performance of Children), generic pediatric QL (Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory Parent Report, PedsQL), family functioning (PedsQL Family Impact Module), and parent well‐being (Patient Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System Adult Global Report). Participants completed the preschool HEAR‐QL 2 weeks later to measure test–retest reliability. Exploratory principal components analysis was used to reduce the number of items and determine the underlying HEAR‐QL factor structure. Analysis of variance examined HEAR‐QL differences by HL.

Results

Among 205 parents, 144 had children with bilateral HL, 50 had children with unilateral HL, 10 had children with normal hearing (NH), and one child's hearing status was unspecified. The 70‐item questionnaire was reduced to 23 items with five underlying factors: Behavior and Attention, Hearing Environments, New Social Situations, Social Interactions, and Communication. Cronbach's alpha for each factor ranged from 0.80 to 0.91. Test–retest reliability was 0.93. Moderate‐to‐strong correlations (r > .300) were observed between each Preschool HEAR‐QL factor and previously validated measures. Hearing Environments scores differed significantly between children with NH and any HL.

Conclusion

Preschool HEAR‐QL correlations with other measures supported its construct validity. Discriminant validity testing requires a larger sample of children with NH.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 131:663–670, 2021
Captivity affects diversity, abundance, and functional pathways of gut microbiota in the northern grass lizard Takydromus septentrionalis
Authors: Zhou Jin , Zhao Yu‐Tian , Dai Ying‐Yu , Jiang Yi‐Jin , Lin Long‐Hui , Li Hong , Li Peng , Qu Yan‐Fu , Ji Xiang
Published: July 2020

Animals in captivity undergo a range of environmental changes from wild animals. An increasing number of studies show that captivity significantly affects the abundance and community structure of gut microbiota. The northern grass lizard (Takydromus septentrionalis) is an extensively studied lacertid lizard and has a distributional range covering the central and southeastern parts of China. Nonetheless, little is known about the gut microbiota of this species, which may play a certain role in nutrient and energy metabolism as well as immune homeostasis. Here, we examined the differences in the gut microbiota between two groups (wild and captive) of lizards through 16S rRNA sequencing using the Illumina HiSeq platform. The results demonstrated that the dominant microbial components in both groups consisted of Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, and Tenericutes. The two groups did not differ in the abundance of these three phyla. Citrobacter was the most dominant genus in wild lizards, while Morganella was the most dominant genus in captive lizards. Moreover, gene function predictions showed that genes at the KEGG pathway levels2 were more abundant in wild lizards than in captive lizards but, at the KEGG pathway levels1, the differences in gene abundances between wild and captive lizards were not significant. In summary, captivity exerted a significant impact on the gut microbial community structure and diversity in T. septentrionalis, and future work could usefully investigate the causes of these changes using a comparative approach.
A rain estimation model based on microwave signal attenuation measurements in the city of Ioannina, Greece
Authors: Christofilakis Vasilis , Tatsis Giorgos , Lolis Christos J. , Chronopoulos Spyridon K. , Kostarakis Panos , Bartzokas Aristides , Nistazakis Hector E.
Published: July 2020

Rain monitoring through signal attenuation has been a significant concern for the scientific community over the last decade. The lowest L‐, S‐ and C‐bands in the microwave spectrum are full of potential for environmental monitoring devices. It has not been extensively proven whether signal attenuation can be used for rain estimation throughout the microwave spectrum in the region of 1–6 GHz. The study derives a power‐law rain estimation model by validating the one year data for the amount of rain and signal attenuation at the lowest limit of the S‐band. This is achieved by a prototype accurate experimental set‐up in a laboratory environment at the campus of the University of Ioannina, northwest Greece. A comparison with global rain attenuation models as well as measurements near this frequency band are also presented and discussed.
Development of an immune‐related prognostic model for pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia patients
Authors: Quan Xi , Zhang Nan , Chen Ying , Zeng Hanqing , Deng Jianchuan
Published: July 2020

Background

Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is the most common hematological malignancy in pediatrics, and immune‐related genes (IRGs) play crucial role in its development. Our study aimed to identify prognostic immune biomarkers of pediatric ALL and construct a risk assessment model.

Methods

Pediatric ALL patients’ gene expression data were downloaded from Therapeutically Applicable Research to Generate Effective Treatments (TARGET) database. We screened differentially expressed IRGs (DEIRGs) between the relapse and non‐relapse groups. Cox regression analysis was used to identify optimal prognostic genes, then, a risk model was constructed, and its accuracy was verified in different cohorts.

Results

We screened 130 DEIRGs from 251 pediatric ALL samples. The top three pathways that DEIRGs may influence tumor progression are NABA matrisome‐associated, chemotaxis, and antimicrobial humoral response. A set of 84 prognostic DEIRGs was identified by using univariate Cox analysis. Then, Lasso regression and multivariate Cox regression analysis screened four optimal genes (PRDX2, S100A10, RORB, and SDC1), which were used to construct the prognostic risk model. The risk score was calculated and the survival analysis results showed that high‐risk score was associated with poor overall survival (OS) (p = 3.195 × 10−7). The time‐dependent survival receiver operating characteristic curves showed good prediction accuracy (Area Under Curves for 3‐year, 5‐year OS were 0.892 and 0.89, respectively). And the predictive performance of our risk model was successfully verified in testing cohort and entire cohort.

Conclusions

Our prognostic risk model can effectively divide pediatric ALL patients into high‐risk and low‐risk groups, which may help predict clinical prognosis and optimize individualized treatment.
Does Fecundity of Cisco Vary in the Upper Great Lakes?
Authors: Yule* Daniel L. , Dobosenski Jamie A. , Myers Jared T. , Ebener Mark P. , Claramunt Randall M. , McKenna James D. , Ketola H. George , Gorman Owen T.
Published: July 2020

Fecundity of fish is influenced by several factors, including body length, condition, population density, and environmental conditions. It follows that fecundity of fish populations can exhibit spatiotemporal variability; thus, periodic quantification of length–fecundity relationships is important for management. We hypothesized that average fecundity of Cisco Coregonus artedi in the upper Laurentian Great Lakes would be lower in Lake Superior than in Lakes Huron and Michigan. The trophic status of these lakes recently converged, but Lakes Huron and Michigan currently support lower Cisco densities; thus, we expected that they would reach larger sizes and have greater fecundity owing to lower intraspecific competition. Ovaries were collected from prespawn Cisco during 2008–2010 to test this hypothesis. We also compared length–fecundity relationships for 2008–2010 to those of precollapse (1930s–1950s) populations to explore how relationships have changed. Average fecundity of Cisco during 2008–2010 was lower in Lake Superior compared to Lakes Huron and Michigan; length–fecundity relationships in the latter two lakes did not vary significantly, so they were combined. Body condition was highest in Lakes Huron and Michigan. We used otoliths to determine age and found that body condition was domed shaped with respect to age in Lakes Huron and Superior. There were no females older than age 5 in our samples from Lake Michigan because that population was just beginning to recover from very low levels. Females of intermediate age had the highest fecundities in both Lake Huron (ages 7–13) and Lake Superior (ages 8–18). We hypothesize that differences in body morphometry may also influence fecundity, with deeper-bodied C. artedi albus, the predominant form in Lakes Michigan and Huron, having greater fecundity than shallower-bodied C. artedi artedi in Lake Superior. Moreover, varying Cisco diets and seasonal movement patterns across lakes may have also contributed to differences. Females in Lakes Superior and Michigan are currently more fecund than their precollapse counterparts.