bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Boundary variation diminishing algorithm for high‐order local polynomial‐based schemes
Authors: Abe Yoshiaki , Sun Ziyao , Xiao Feng
Published: July 2020

A novel approach for selecting appropriate reconstructions is implemented to the hyperbolic conservation laws in the high‐order local polynomial‐based framework, for example, the discontinuous Galerkin (DG) and flux reconstruction (FR) schemes. The high‐order polynomial approximation generally fails to correctly capture a strong discontinuity inside a cell due to the Gibbs phenomenon, which is replaced by more stable approximation on the basis of a troubled‐cell indicator such as that used with the total variation bounded (TVB) limiter. This paper examines the applicability of a new algorithm, so‐called boundary variation diminishing (BVD) reconstruction, to the weighted essentially nonoscillatory methodology in the FR framework including the nodal type DG method. The BVD reconstruction adaptively chooses a proper approximation for the solution function so as to minimize the jump between values at the left and right side of cell boundaries. The results of the BVD algorithm are comparable to those with the conventional TVB limiter in terms of oscillation suppression and numerical dissipation in one‐dimensional linear advection and nonlinear system equations, while the TVB limiter performs better in the case with strong discontinuities (the blast wave problem in the Euler equations). Overall, since the present BVD algorithm does not need any ad hoc constant such as the TVB parameter, it could be more reliable than the conventional TVB limiter that is often used in the DG and FR communities for shocks and other discontinuities. The proposed method would lead to a parameter‐free robust algorithm for the local polynomial‐based high‐order schemes.
Oral squamous carcinoma: Aggressive tumor pattern of invasion predicts direct mandible invasion
Authors: Yue Lauren E. , Sharif Kayvon F. , Sims John R. , Sandler Mykayla L. , Baik Fred M. , Sobotka Stanislaw , Everest Sedef , Brandwein‐Weber Margaret , Khorsandi Azita S. , Likhterov Ilya , Urken Mark L.
Published: July 2020

Background

Aggressive histologic worst pattern of invasion (WPOI) in surrounding soft tissue has been shown to be predictive of higher local recurrence and poorer survival in oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma (OCSCC) patients. This study investigates whether aggressive WPOI can predict the mandibular invasion phenotype.

Methods

Patients consecutively diagnosed with OCSCC undergoing a mandibulectomy (marginal or segmental) between 2013 and 2018 were reviewed. Senior physicians re‐reviewed radiologic scans and pathologic slides of 44 cases.

Results

Aggressive WPOI (WPOI‐4, 5) is significantly associated with infiltrative bone invasion. Non‐aggressive WPOI (WPOI‐1, 2, 3) is significantly associated with the absence of bone invasion.

Conclusions

WPOI has become a useful tool that further characterizes the biologic behavior of OCSCC. Potentially, planned surgery may escalate from a marginal to segmental mandibulectomy based on aggressive WPOI for patients with radiographically uncertain cortical status. Further studies are needed to validate the relationship between OCSCC WPOI and mandible status.
Thermal performance of Ag–water nanofluid flow over a curved surface due to chemical reaction using Buongiorno's model
Authors: Mishra Ashish , Kumar Pandey Alok , Kumar Manoj
Published: July 2020

An analysis of heat and mass transfer is carried out under the influence of chemical reaction, friction heating, and heat generation/absorption over a curved surface. The impacts of random motion attributes of nanoparticles and thermophoresis are also applied in the expressions of energy and concentration. With the help of assigned transformations, the nonlinear partial differential equations are changed to dimensionless nonlinear ordinary differential equations. Then, the numerical solution is obtained using fourth‐fifth order Runge‐Kutta‐Fehlberg method via the shooting technique. The impacts of relevant parameters on velocity, temperature, and concentration are depicted through graphs and tables. The results illustrate that the lowest concentration distribution of nanofluid is related to the higher value of chemical reaction parameter. Moreover, it is found that thermophoresis and Brownian motion parameters have a propensity to increase the temperature profile while curvature parameter decreases the velocity profile. Also, velocity and temperature fields show a similar behavior for the increasing values of volume fraction of the nanoparticles, while a reverse trend is observed in the concentration profile under the same condition. To authenticate the results of the current study, the obtained data were compared with previously published data.
Time‐dependent intrinsic correlation analysis of crude oil and the US dollar based on CEEMDAN
Authors: Peng Qing , Wen Fenghua , Gong Xu
Published: July 2020

In this article, we analyze the dynamic linkage between crude oil price and the US dollar at multi‐scale frequencies using time‐dependent intrinsic correlation analysis based on the complete ensemble empirical mode decomposition with adaptive noise. After applying a refined method to extract the trend, we reveal that the overall correlation and the long‐term trend correlation exhibit very similar patterns. The correlation coefficients between crude oil and the US dollar are negative at most of the time; however, the coefficients become positive in certain periods, such as 2013–2014 and 2017–2018. Furthermore, the negative correlations in high frequency intrinsic mode functions (IMFs), with a shorter time horizon, are weaker and display time‐varying characteristics, whereas the correlation in low frequency IMFs, with a longer time horizon, are stronger and more static. The findings of this article may have important implications for investors to construct optimal portfolio diversification.
The relationship between FDI inflows and private investment in Vietnam: Does institutional environment matter?
Authors: Nguyen Van Bon
Published: July 2020

The recent literature confirms that foreign direct investment (FDI) can crowd out/in private investment. However, questions concerning the FDI–private investment relationship under different kinds of institutional environment is of great interest. This study examines the role of institutional environment in the FDI–private investment relationship in Vietnam using the two‐step GMM Arellano–Bond estimators for a balanced panel data of 52 provinces during the period 2005–2014. More interestingly are the empirical findings. First, both FDI and institutional environment significantly boost private investment. Second, the FDI–private investment relationship completely varies based on the quality of institutional environment. Third, the positive effects of government revenue and government investment remain under different institutional environments. These findings suggest some important implications for governments in developing countries, especially the Vietnam government.
An application of frequency domain approach to the causal nexus between information, communication and technology infrastructure and financial development in selected countries in Africa
Authors: Ibrahim Muazu , Sare Yakubu Awudu , Adam Ibrahim Osman
Published: July 2020

Earlier studies on the causal relationship between information, communication and technology (ICT) and financial development have relied on a time domain approach, which does not distinguish among the various forms of causality at the different time periods. In this study, we re‐examine the causality nexus between ICT infrastructure and domestic level of financial development in 19 selected countries in Africa using a frequency domain spectral causality test technique that corrects the weaknesses eminent in the existing studies. Our findings suggest that, for most frequency levels, ICT infrastructure and domestic level of financial development in several countries are completely independent confirming the neutrality hypothesis. This holds irrespective of the measure of ICT and finance. We also find evidence to support the demand‐following hypothesis, supply leading hypothesis and feedback hypothesis at different time periods for the different countries under study. Given the findings, we argue that the causal relationship between ICT and financial development is not straightforward as suggested by the existing studies. In addition to indicator of ICT and finance, the extent to which countries' ICT infrastructure relates with their domestic financial sector development is contingent on whether the country is operating in the short, intermediate or long run.
Interest rate pass‐through and exogenous factors: Evidence from Vietnam
Authors: Ngo Thi Hang , Ariyoshi Akira , Tran Thi Xuan Anh
Published: July 2020

This article examines the efficiency of the monetary policy transmission mechanism in Vietnam by investigating a two‐stage linkage between policy rates and retail bank rates in consideration of exogenous drivers including the asymmetric pass‐through behaviour and the State Bank of Vietnam's significant change on the operational target. The month‐end dataset, and asymmetric error correction model, autoregressive distributed lag regression and vector autoregressive regression are utilized to measure the degree of ultimate pass‐through, adjustment speed, and short‐run pass‐through of the two‐stage interest rate pass‐through process. Our results indicate quick responses in market rates to changes in policy rates; and incomplete long‐run pass‐through coupled with delayed impact and slow adjustment from market rates to retail rates; while the responses appear to be symmetric with respect to the direction of change of rates. Moreover, the positive impact of the State Bank's regime shift on the effectiveness of the interest rate transmission is another important finding of this study. These findings eventually lead to some suggestions on the possible measures to enhance the effectiveness of monetary policy transmission.
Go‐for‐green policies: The role of finance and trade for sustainable development
Authors: Nassani Abdelmohsen A. , Abro Muhammad Moinuddin Qazi , Batool Rubeena , Shah Syed Haider Ali , Hyder Shabir , Zaman Khalid
Published: July 2020

The relationship between carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions and income per capita (GDPpc) is widely discussed in the environmental literature, generally known as ‘Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC)’. The study primarily contributes to the literature on the EKC by (a) focusing on a sample of less developed countries (LDCs), (b) controlling for per capita GDP scaled by a factor of two (in logs), (c) controlling for lagged per capita GDP squared (in logs), and (d) controlling for per capita GDP cubed (in logs). The effect of environmental regulation on trade and FDI inflows evaluates the ‘Pollution Haven Hypothesis (PHH)’ across nations. The extended version of the EKC (EV‐EKC) framework validates the population‐based emission, generally known as ‘IPAT hypothesis’ where (I) is measured by air pollution (i.e. CO2 emissions), (P) is measured by population growth, (A) is measured by GDPpc, and (T) is measured by FDI inflows, trade, and energy demand. The study selected a panel of 24 LICs for the period of 2002–2016 for robust inferences. The results supported the inverted U‐shaped EKC hypothesis under the new beta's transformation in panel econometric techniques. The results partially supported the ‘PHH’ where FDI inflows are significantly associated with the CO2 emissions; while trade openness is not statistically significant in the prescribed regression apparatus. Population growth decreases carbon emissions to support the ‘genius’ principle, which rejected the IPAT hypothesis, whereas energy demand increases carbon emissions across countries.
Information in daily data volatility measurements
Authors: Kawakatsu Hiroyuki
Published: July 2020

This paper evaluates the information content in daily volatility measures that utilize OHLC (Open‐High‐Low‐Close) price data. An encompassing regression framework is used to evaluate the absolute and relative information contain in such measures. 2‐step GMM (generalized method of moments) estimates using two sets of instruments are used to address potential bias from measurement errors. The evidence using S&P 500 index data suggest that volatility measures that use OHLC data encompass those based only on close‐to‐close returns or high‐minus‐low ranges. However, the proposed instruments do not all pass statistical tests of instrument validity and the identification robust confidence set can be quite large.
Treatment of asymptomatic pyuria in psychiatric patients discharged from the emergency department following antimicrobial stewardship implementation
Authors: Ellena Kamah , Wolf Lauren , Dumkow Lisa E. , VanLangen Kali M.
Published: July 2020

Introduction

Abnormal urinalysis (UA) results, such as pyuria or bacteriuria, increase the risk for antibiotic treatment even in the absence of urinary symptoms. In the emergency department (ED), patients presenting with psychiatric emergencies commonly undergo a medical assessment which includes a UA. We hypothesized that the rate of inappropriate antibiotic treatment for asymptomatic pyuria in the psychiatric medical population would decrease following implementation of an antimicrobial stewardship program (ASP) in the ED.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study compared the treatment of adult patients presenting to the ED for medical assessment during a psychiatric emergency with noted pyuria between three time periods following implementation of an ASP: early ASP (2014), established ASP (2016), and mature ASP (2018). The ASP provided education and routine audit‐and‐feedback focused on reducing urine testing and eliminating treatment of asymptomatic pyuria. The primary end point was to compare rates of inappropriate treatment of asymptomatic pyuria between groups. Secondary end points included comparing appropriate agent selection and duration for patients who were prescribed antibiotics, prescriber documentation, and patient outcomes between groups.

Results

A total of 180 patients with pyuria were included; 60 within each study group with 88.3% being asymptomatic. Inappropriate prescribing of antibiotics for asymptomatic patients at ED discharge decreased over time following ASP implementation (2014 = 40.4%, 2016 = 31.4%, 2018 = 17.6%; P = .036). Additionally, documentation noting a positive UA requiring antibiotic treatment decreased (2014 = 46.7%, 2016 = 40%, 2018 = 26.7%). Of the 62 patients treated with antibiotics, selection of a first‐line agent increased with ASP maturity (2014 = 15.4%, 2016 = 26.1%, 2018 = 69.9%; P = .002).

Conclusion

Inappropriate treatment of asymptomatic pyuria in patients presenting to the ED with psychiatric emergencies decreased significantly over time following implementation of an ASP. EDs may benefit from ASP interventions aimed at decreasing reliance on UA interpretation in this patient population.
Peri‐tumoural stroma collagen organization of invasive ductal carcinoma assessed by polarized light microscopy differs between OncotypeDX risk group
Authors: Jones Blake , Thomas Georgia , Sprenger Jillian , Nofech‐Mozes Sharon , Khorasani Mohammadali , Vitkin Alex
Published: July 2020

A commercially available genomic test, OncotypeDX has emerged as a useful postsurgical treatment guide for early stage breast cancer. Despite widespread clinical adoption, there remain logistical issues with its implementation. Collagenous stromal architecture has been shown to hold prognostic value that may complement OncotypeDX. Polarimetric analysis of breast cancer surgical samples allows for the quantification of collagenous stroma abundance and organization. We examine intratumoural collagen abundance and alignment along the tumor‐host interface for 45 human samples of invasive ductal carcinoma categorized as low or higher risk by OncotypeDX. Furthermore, we probe the separatory power of collagen alignment patterns to classify unlabeled samples as low or higher OncotypeDX risk group using a linear discriminant (LD) model. No significant difference in mean collagen abundance was found between the two risk groups. However, collagen alignment along the tumor boundary was found to be significantly lower in higher risk samples. The LD model achieved a 71% total accuracy and 81% sensitivity to higher risk samples. Prognostic information extracted from the stromal morphology has potential to complement OncotypeDX as an easy‐to‐implement prescreening methodology.
An alternative procedure to leukapheresis for peripheral hematopoietic progenitor cell collection in very‐low‐weight children: A single pediatric center experience
Authors: Becherucci Valentina , Ermini Stefano , Piccini Luisa , Bisin Silvia , Gori Valentina , Gentile Francesca , Ceccantini Riccardo , De Rienzo Elena , Bindi Barbara , Pavan Paola , Cunial Vanessa , Allegro Elisa , Brugnolo Francesca , Maggio Daniela , Calzolari Daniela , Maccarelli Erika , Galli Silvia , Muricci Sonia , Berchielli Marco , Tintori Veronica , Sardi Iacopo , Bambi Franco
Published: July 2020

Background

PBSC collection using a blood cell separator in very low weight patients can be frequently complicated by severe adverse effects and technical difficulties.

Material and Methods

From March 2013 to January 2017, 14 PBSC collections were performed in 12 children weighing less than 10 kg, affected by different solid tumours. PBSC collection was performed with a “homemade” aseptically assembled circuit. The circuit is composed by a 150 mL collection bag connected with a 4 stopcock ramp, perfused with ACD. This circuit allows collection of a specific total blood amount from CVC, depending on CD34+/kg target.

Results

Mean CD34+cell performance per collection was 9.3 × 106/kg. Tolerance to the procedure was very good as none of the patients experienced complications, with the exception of a patient who showed mild cyanosis and pallor after collection. Moreover, no bleeding or thrombotic complications have been observed. To date, 16 PBSC reinfusions have been performed in 7 children with a mean CD34+cells viability of 98.1% ± 2.7 and mean WBC viability of 57% ± 10. Cell recovery after thawing was 87% ± 10.8. A rapid graft intake for both neutrophils and platelets, between day 7 and 20 after reinfusion was observed.

Discussion

The procedure of total blood collection without the use of a cell separator is feasible and allows a good PBSC collection without significant side effects in very low‐weight children. Moreover, this method could represent a valid and safe alternative to leukapheresis in patients where classic procedure could be difficult to apply.
Severe renal impairment as an adverse prognostic factor for survival in newly diagnosed multiple myeloma patients
Authors: Chen Xuduan , Luo Xiaofeng , Zu Yanping , Issa Hajji Ally , Li Linlin , Ye Hong , Yang Ting , Hu Jianda , Wei Lixin
Published: July 2020

Background

Renal impairment (RI) is associated with poor survival in newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (MM) patients. Renal function recovery has been one of the main therapeutic goals in those patients.

Methods

The records from 393 newly diagnosed MM patients in our hospital between January 2012 and December 2016 were retrospectively analyzed. RI was defined as an eGFR < 40 mL/min according to the novel IMWG criteria. RI patients were categorized based on their renal function at diagnosis: severe RI: eGFR < 30 mL/min, and mild RI: 30 mL/min ≤ eGFR <40 mL/min. We explored whether RI, and particularly severe RI, was an adverse prognostic factor for survival, and investigated the impact of renal function recovery on survival.

Results

Severe RI, hemoglobin <100 g/L, LDH ≥ 245 U/L, hyperuricemia, 1q21 amplification, and lack of novel agent treatment were associated with decreased overall survival (OS). Severe RI patients with renal response had a median OS of 27 months compared with 18 months for those patients without renal response (P = .030), but their median OS was still significantly lower than that for patients without severe RI, which was 51 months. In severe RI patients, the overall renal response rate in bortezomib‐based regimens was significantly higher than that in nonbortezomib‐based regimens.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that severe RI is an adverse prognostic factor for survival in newly diagnosed MM patients, restoration of renal function may improve survival, and bortezomib‐based regimens may be the preferred treatment in patients with severe RI.
The association of miR‐27a rs895819 polymorphism with colorectal cancer risk in Chinese population
Authors: Zhang Shulong , Han Qi , Zhu Kaihua , Wang Quan
Published: July 2020

Background

Besides environment and living habits, such as a sedentary lifestyle, smoking and drinking, genetic variation also plays an important role in the development of colorectal cancer (CRC). This study was aimed to investigate the role of miR‑27a rs895819 polymorphism on CRC risk in Chinese population.

Methods

In a case‐control study including 208 CRC and 312 age‐ and gender‐matched healthy control subjects, the rs895819 polymorphism was genotyped using the TaqMan allelic discrimination assay. Furthermore, a pooled analysis based on eligible studies was performed by using the STATA software.

Results

Logistic regression analysis showed that the rs895819 polymorphism was not associated with CRC risk. However, a pooled analysis based on five studies from Chinese population showed a statistically significant association between the rs895819 polymorphism and CRC risk (GG vs AA: OR = 1.56, 95% CI = 1.27‐1.92, Pz < .01; (AG + GG) vs AA: OR = 1.14, 95% CI = 1.01‐1.30, Pz = .04; GG vs (AG + AA): OR = 1.54, 95% CI = 1.27‐1.88, Pz < .01; G vs A: OR = 1.20, 95% CI = 1.09‐1.33, Pz < .01).

Conclusion

Our study suggests that miR‑27a rs895819 polymorphism plays an important role in CRC risk in Chinese population and may serve as a valuable biomarker for predicting an individual's susceptibility to CRC.
Bioinformatic identification of key pathways, hub genes, and microbiota for therapeutic intervention in Helicobacter pylori infection
Authors: Chen Zhenhui , Chen Huijuan , Yu Lu , Xin Hongjie , Kong Jingjing , Bai Yang , Zeng Weisen , Zhang Jumei , Wu Qingping , Fan Hongying
Published: July 2020

The pathogenic mechanisms of Helicobacter pylori infection remain to be defined, and potential interventional microbiota are just beginning to be identified. In this study, gene‐set enrichment analysis (GSEA) was used to integrate three H. pylori infection microarray data sets from the gene expression omnibus database and identified ten hallmark gene sets and 35 Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes (KEGG) pathways that differed between healthy and Helicobacter pylori‐infected individuals. Weighted gene co‐expression network analysis (WGCNA) performed on two of the data sets identified three key gene coexpression modules. These modules contained 54 enriched KEGG pathways, 25 of which overlapped with the GSEA analysis, suggesting potentially important roles in H. pylori‐infection. We selected 116 hub genes from the three key modules for in vitro validation at the transcriptional level using H. pylori Sydney Strain 1 and verified the upregulation of 80. WGCNA of the microbiomes based on 20 mucosal samples and a sequence read archive data set revealed four microbiota modules correlated with H. pylori infection. The negatively correlated modules contained 11 microbiome families. These findings provide new insight into the pathogenesis of H. pylori infection and systematically identify 25 key pathways, 80 upregulated hub genes, and 11 families of candidate interventional microbiota for further research.
Serum-borne lipids amplify TLR-activated inflammatory responses
Authors: Sharma Naveen , Akhade Ajay Suresh , Ismaeel Sana , Qadri Ayub
Published: July 2020

TLRs recognize conserved pathogen associated molecular patterns and generate innate immune responses. Several circulating and cell membrane associated proteins have been shown to collaborate with TLRs in sensing microbial ligands and promoting inflammatory responses. Here, we show that serum and serum-borne lipids including lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC) amplify inflammatory responses from intestinal epithelial cells and mononuclear phagocytes primed with microbial TLR ligands. Treatment with the inhibitors of G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) signaling, suramin, or pertussis toxin (PT), the inhibitor of JNK-MAPK, or knockdown of LPC response-regulating GPCR, G2A, decreases the augmentation brought about by serum or LPC in TLR-induced inflammatory response. In vivo administration of PT or anti-G2A antibody reduces TLR2-activated cytokine secretion. The ability of host lipids to costimulate TLR-generated cellular responses represents a novel pathway for the amplification of innate immunity and inflammation.
Development of a new atmospheric pressure plasmaspray ionization for ambient mass spectrometry
Authors: Peng Zhen , Liu Ji‐Xing , Zhu Hui , Guo Teng , Xu Li , Dong Jun‐Guo , Cheng Ping , Zhou Zhen
Published: July 2020

A new atmospheric pressure ionization method, plasmaspray ionization, termed as PSI, was developed to be an alternative ambient ion source for mass spectrometry. It comprises a plasma jet device and a sample spray part. While the nonthermal plasma jet strikes the surface of stainless steel tube out of the spray capillary, the sprayed sample will be ionized with the assistant of auxiliary gas. Although PSI is a little bit more complex than electrospray ionization (ESI) in instrument, it shows both better linearity and higher sensitivity for organic compounds. For protein samples, it presents wider distributions of multiply charged ions and higher mass resolution without sacrificing any sensitivity. For the mechanism of PSI, the charge build‐up process on the tip of capillary should play a key role for the ion formation, and the stimulated pulsed voltage on the flow tube will promote the ion aggregation speed until the charge density is high enough. PSI source contains the features of plasma ionization and ESI and can be considered as a novel combo bridging these techniques. These results reflect that this method of PSI can be applied and further developed as a versatile new ion source for a wild range of organic and biological samples.
Antibody responses to SARS‐CoV‐2 in healthy individuals returning to Shenzhen
Authors: Zhang Cantong , Lin Liancheng , Tang Donge , Liu Fuju , Li Meng , Li Qiongying , Deng Zhaoxiang , Chu Guohai , Gu Dayong , Dai Yong
Published: July 2020

To verify reliability of antibody detection and investigate population immunity to severe acute respiratory syndrome‐related coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) in the local Chinese population. A cross‐sectional study was conducted in Shenzhen to detect anti‐coronavirus antibodies including, immunoglobulin G (IgG), immunoglobulin M (IgM), and immunoglobulin A (IgA). In the COVID‐19 group, nine patients were enrolled after diagnosis. In the control group, 1589 individuals without clinical symptoms (cough, fever, and fatigue) and returning from outside Shenzhen were enrolled. The first study enrollment occurred at the end of February 2020; the final study visit was 18 March 2020. In the COVID‐19 group, the seven of nine patients were positive for IgM, IgG, and IgA. Meanwhile, six of the 1589 healthy individuals were found to be weakly positive for IgG. According to SARS‐CoV‐2 nucleic acid tests, the six individuals were all negative. Strong supplemental support for clinical information can be provided by antibody detection, especially for IgA. According to comparison with overseas reports, the infection rate of the Chinese population outside Shenzhen, China, is significantly low, so most of the population in China is still susceptible. Hence, social distancing measures are still inevitable until a vaccine is developed successfully.
Evaluation and ensemble projection of extreme high and low temperature events in China from four dynamical downscaling simulations
Authors: Guo Donglin , Zhang Ying , Gao Xuejie , Pepin Nick , Sun Jianqi
Published: July 2020

Extreme climate events are often of great interest because of their close relationship with meteorological and hydrological disasters. In this study, four RCM simulations driven by different GCMs (CSIRO‐Mk3.6.0, EC‐EARTH, HadGEM2‐ES, and MPI‐ESM‐MR) are used as an ensemble to project changes in extreme high and low temperatures in China as represented by selected Expert Team on Climate Change Detection indices. Each simulation is performed at 25 km resolution from 1980 to 2099 using RegCM4.4 RCM. Results show the following: (a) All four reasonably reproduce climatological maximum daily maximum temperature (TX), warm spell duration, minimum daily minimum temperature (TN), and cold spell duration, but the majority shows relatively weak ability to capture climatological warm day and cold night frequencies. (b) Although the RCM homogenizes much of the variance originally shown between driving GCM simulations, marked dissimilarities are still shown in western China across the four downscaling simulations, implying a dependency on the individual GCM‐driven RCM simulation for this region. (c) All of China shows an increase in maximum TX, warm days, warm spell duration, minimum TN, and a decrease in cold nights and cold spell duration, during the near‐term, middle‐term, and long‐term. The Tibetan Plateau and its adjacent regions show more significant changes in extreme temperature, indicating stronger sensitivity to changes in extremes. RCM downscaling projects less significant change in extreme temperatures than the driving GCM. (d) The ensemble of RCM simulations projects that area‐averaged maximum TX, warm days, warm spell duration, and minimum TN increase over China as a whole by 2.5°C, 21.1%, 43.6 days, and 3.3°C, respectively, while cold nights and cold spell duration decrease by 6.8% and 2.0 days, respectively during the long‐term under the RCP4.5 scenario relative to 1986–2005. Future episodes of extreme high temperature are likely to require more research as they become more common.
New insights into the world's longest series of monthly snowfall (Parma, Northern Italy, 1777–2018)
Authors: Diodato Nazzareno , Bertolin Chiara , Bellocchi Gianni , de Ferri Lavinia , Fantini Paolo
Published: July 2020

The emergence of decreasing trends in snowfall frequency and snow depth highlights the challenges arising from shifts in snow regimes. In particular, snow‐dependent southern Europe regions may be negatively impacted by such changes. Snow regimes strongly influence the water availability in reservoirs and groundwater. This study presents the world's longest series of monthly snowfall (fresh snow depth, snow days per year, days with snow on the ground) for the Parma Observatory, northern Italy (44°48′N and 10°19′E) between 1777 and 2018. These datasets were collected over the centuries using early rain gauges and recently, SIAP tipping bucket models. Sources of inhomogeneity were identified and analysed through the study of metadata and of nonparametric tests on datasets. Homogenized time series were obtained after correcting the observed snowfall data for the instruments response and localization characteristics, for the observing practices with the help of the standard normal homogeneity tests. The Buishand and the Mann–Kendall tests were further applied to check the correction and detect possible monotonic trends. Over the study period, days per year of snow decreased after the change point detected in 1897, in association with a rise in surface air temperature (including a distinct urban warming trend). In this study high numbers of snowy days per year (hereafter referred as snowfall frequency) and snow depth values during the latest phase of the LIA at Parma are consistent with a cycle of minimum solar activity, suggesting that enhanced, solar‐induced blocking activity dominated, with the arrival into the Mediterranean of large cold air masses developing over Siberia and northern Europe. Over the last century, snow appears to have resonance‐like characteristics as similar trends were observed over the Northern Hemisphere, where the extent of the snow cover has been reported to markedly decline in the transition spring and autumn seasons.
Spatio‐temporal patterns of rainfall trends and the 2015–2017 drought over the winter rainfall region of South Africa
Authors: Wolski Piotr , Conradie Stefaan , Jack Christopher , Tadross Mark
Published: July 2020

We analyse long‐term (1900–2017) rainfall data in the southern part of the winter rainfall region of southern Africa to understand the spatial patterns of recent and long‐term trends and contextualize the 2015–2017 rainfall anomalies which led to the so‐called “Day Zero” drought in Cape Town. Our analyses reveal cohesive spatial patterns and seasonal differences in rainfall trends across a range of timescales. These suggest that rainfall is subject to regional driving mechanisms, predominantly manifested at the 20–50 year timescale, but the influence of these mechanisms is modified by subregional and seasonally specific processes, frequently resulting in trends of different magnitudes and even sign. Trend patterns are consistent with multidecadal‐scale quasi‐periodicity, with only the most recent phase (post‐1981 drying) corresponding to the expected regional response to hemispheric processes linked to anthropogenic climate change. The spatial and seasonal patterns of drying observed since 1981 alone do not explain the pattern of 2015–2017 drought anomalies, although they share a strong autumn and weak mid‐winter signal. These results have implications to the interpretation of drought in the context of observed rainfall trends. Furthermore, we identify directions for improvement of the conceptual understanding of drivers of rainfall variability and the role of anthropogenic climate change in the winter rainfall region of South Africa.
Does the order of total hip replacement and lumbar spinal stenosis surgery influence patient‐reported outcomes: An observational register study
Authors: Eneqvist Ted , Bülow Erik , Nemes Szilárd , Brisby Helena , Fritzell Peter , Rolfson Ola
Published: July 2020

Patients with degenerative hip and lumbar spine disorders requiring surgery in both locations is fairly common in clinical practice. We investigated if the order of total hip replacement (THR) and lumbar spinal stenosis surgery (LSSS) influences patient‐reported outcomes (PROs). We used data from the Swedish Hip Arthroplasty Register (SHAR) and the Swedish Spine Register (Swespine), on patients operated with THR and LSSS in years 2002 to 2012. To increase the probability of having symptomatic disorders in both locations at the time of the first surgery, we only included patients with both LSSS and THR performed within 2 years. Linear and logistic regression analyses adjusted for age, sex, preoperative PROs, and time between surgeries were used to investigate the association between order of surgeries and the generic PRO measurements EQ‐5D and EQ VAS. Eighty‐four patients had THR prior to LSSS and 171 patients LSSS prior to THR. Linear regression showed that LSSS prior to THR was associated with higher EQ‐5D index (B = 0.09, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.03‐0.16) and EQ VAS (B = 5.6, 95% CI 0.4‐10.9) 1 year after the last surgery. Logistic regression showed that the odds ratio [OR] for not having any problems in the “pain” (OR = 3.0, 95% CI 1.5‐6.3) and “anxiety/depression” (OR = 2.3, 95% CI 1.3‐4.1) dimensions were higher for LSSS before THR. In our cohort, LSSS before THR was associated with better health‐related quality of life outcomes compared to the reverse order. The results from our cohort can be helpful in a clinical situation where the physician gives advice to an individual patient when choosing the order of procedures. However, further studies are necessary in order to confirm these results in other cohorts. At present, standard of care remains that order of surgery should be individualized for each patient, with guidance from the operating surgeons.
Myopenia and Reduced Subcutaneous Adiposity in Children With Liver Disease Are Associated With Adverse Outcomes
Authors: Ooi Poh Hwa , Mazurak Vera C. , Bhargava Ravi , Dunichand‐Hoedl Abha , Ayala Romero Rocio , Gilmour Susan M. , Yap Jason YK , Mager Diana R.
Published: July 2020

Background

Sarcopenia is defined as reduced skeletal muscle mass (SMM) or myopenia and altered muscle function and physical performance. It is unknown whether myopenia in children with end‐stage liver disease (ESLD) adversely impacts clinical outcomes. We hypothesized that myopenia was prevalent in children with ESLD and related to suboptimal nutrition intake contributing to gross motor and growth delay, increased hospitalization, and medical complications.

Methods

This retrospective study evaluated abdominal imaging (computed tomography/magnetic resonance imaging) for SMM (total, psoas, paraspinal, abdominal wall muscle; cm2/height2) and adipose tissue (total, visceral, subcutaneous adipose tissue [SAT], ) determinations at the third and fourth lumbar vertebrates during liver transplantation (LTx) assessment. ESLD children (n = 30) were age‐ and gender‐matched to healthy controls (n = 24). Myopenia was defined as SMM index z score <‐2 and low SAT was defined as SAT index z‐score <‐1.5. Anthropometric, biochemical, and clinical data (hospitalization, complications, growth, neurodevelopment, energy/protein intake) were collected at LTx assessment, LTx, and post LTx (first hospitalization, 6 months, 12 months).

Results

Four distinct body composition phenotypes in children with ESLD were found: (1) myopenia with low SAT (17%;5 of 30), (2) myopenia (3%;1 of 30), (3) low SAT (20%;6 of 30), (4) normal muscle mass and SAT (60%;18 of 30). Myopenia with low SAT was prevalent in older (>2 years), male children and was associated with gross motor delay, reduced energy intake, and increased hospitalization and infections (total/viral/fungal).

Conclusions

Myopenia, accompanied by low SAT in children with ESLD, is associated with adverse clinical outcomes. Rehabilitation strategies aimed at combating myopenia in children are important.
Raman spectroscopy as a tool for provenancing black limestones (bigi morati) used in antiquity
Authors: Raneri Simona , Košek Filip , Lazzarini Lorenzo , Wielgosz‐Rondolino Dagmara , Jehlicka Jan , Antonelli Fabrizio
Published: July 2020

Among precious stones used in antiquity, bigi morati stand out for their importance. They consist in black limestones mainly employed in sculptures and architectural heritages and quarried from several sites through the Mediterranean area. Their provenance is difficult to assess due to their similar appearance to the naked‐eye observation and the possible confusion with black marbles (i.e., bigi antichi). Classical methods used for studying ancient marbles, such as minero‐petrographic and stable isotopes analyses (δ13C and δ 16O), resulted to be powerful in provenancing these black lithotypes. However, these methods are microdestructive and cannot be always applied in the case of precious artefacts for which sampling is not allowed. Bearing carbonaceous matter conferring them the typical black‐dark grey colour, Raman spectroscopy might support studies on these limestones, bringing important information about the structural state of organic/carbonaceous matter and their geological evolution. In this study, the potential of Raman spectroscopy in determining geological and geographic provenance of bigi morati was tested on quarry samples from six among the most famous ancient exploitation sources. The obtained results demonstrated that the use of Raman parameters typical of low‐ordered carbon matter is an effective tool in discriminating provenance. Moreover, the laboratory‐based approach lays the groundwork for future development and validation of the method for in situ measurements on artefacts by using portable equipment.
Physiological and metabolic analysis of winter jujube after postharvest treatment with calcium chloride and a composite film
Authors: Kou Xiaohong , Chai Liping , Yang Sen , He Yulong , Wu Cai E , Liu Yefang , Zhou Jiaqian , Xue Zhaohui , Wang Zhanzhong
Published: July 2020

BACKGROUND

Ziziphus jujubaMiller cv. Dongzao is extremely susceptible to reddening, browning, nutritional loss, and perishability after harvest. In this study, we evaluated the mechanisms of calcium chloride and chitosan/nano‐silica composite film treatments on the quality, especially in reddening, by physiological and metabolomic assays.

RESULTS

The treatment delayed the decline of phenylalanine ammonia‐lyase (PAL), chalcone synthase (CHS), and chalcone isomerase (CHI) activities. Meanwhile, the treated groups retarded the increases in anthocyanin and quercetin contents by inhibiting the gene expressions of flavonol synthase (ZjFLS), dihydroflavonol 4‐reductase (ZjDFR), and anthocyanidin synthase (ZjANS), while promoting leucoanthocyanidin reductase (ZjLAR) expression, which leads to retardation of fruit reddening. Anthocyanins were found to be responsible for post‐harvest winter jujube reddening through principal component analysis. Results from the technique for order preference by similarity to an ideal solution indicated that the treated group delayed the decline of the quality of ‘Dongzao’ and extended its shelf life.

CONCLUSION

The treatment induced the heightening of flavonoids metabolism. They enhanced the nutritional value and the ability to resist stress by delaying the decline of PAL, CHS, and CHI activities. Meanwhile, the treated groups retarded the increase in anthocyanin and quercetin contents by inhibiting the gene expressions ofZjFLS,ZjDFR, andZjANSand promotingZjLARexpression, which leads to retardation of fruit reddening. Anthocyanins are responsible for post‐harvest winter jujube reddening. Coating treatment effectively delayed the decline of winter jujube quality. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Fetal Weight Estimation Using Automated Fractional Limb Volume With 2‐Dimensional Size Parameters in Diabetic Pregnancies
Authors: Lee Wesley , Mack Lauren M. , Gandhi Rajshi , Sangi‐Haghpeykar Haleh
Published: July 2020

Objectives

To examine the effect of adding automated fetal fractional limb volume (FLV) with conventional 2‐dimensional (2D) fetal weight estimation procedures in a cohort of diabetic pregnancies.

Methods

A pilot study of diabetic pregnancies measured standard fetal biometry within 7 days of delivery. Fractional arm volume (AVol) and fractional thigh volume (TVol) soft tissue parameters were measured with a commercially available automated software utility (5D Limb Vol; Samsung Medison Co, Ltd, Seoul, Korea). Three conventional weight prediction models that included only 2D size parameters were compared to FLV models that included AVol or TVol. Estimated and actual birth weight (BW) were assessed for the mean percent difference ± standard deviation of the percent differences. Systematic errors were evaluated by the Student t test, and random errors were compared by the Pitman test for correlated variances. The proportion of neonates with estimated fetal weight within 10% of BW was compared between groups by the McNemar test.

Results

Ninety gravid women were enrolled with pregestational (26.7%) or gestational (73.3%) diabetes. All prediction models were accurate, with the exception of small underestimations by the model of Schild et al (−3.8%; Ultrasound Obstet Gynecol 2004; 23:30–35). Random errors for the AVol (6.2%) and TVol (6.9%) models were significantly more precise than the other 3 prediction models: Hadlock et al (7.8%; Am J Obstet Gynecol 1985; 151:333–337), INTERGROWTH‐21st (8.0%; Ultrasound Obstet Gynecol 2017; 49:478–486), and Schild et al (8.6%; P < .01). The greatest proportion of cases with BW ±10% was also classified by the AVol (91.1%) and TVol (91.1%) models, followed by Hadlock (83.3%), INTERGROWTH‐21st (78.9%), and Schild (76.7%) predictions.

Conclusions

The addition of automated FLV measurements to conventional 2D biometry was associated with improved weight predictions in this cohort of diabetic pregnancies.
Management and Outcomes of Sporadic Vestibular Schwannoma: A Longitudinal Study Over 12 Years
Authors: Jia Huan , Sterkers Olivier , Pavillon‐Maisonnier Clémence , Smail Mustapha , Nguyen Yann , Wu Hao , Kalamarides Michel , Lahlou Ghizlène
Published: July 2020

Objectives

To evaluate the management of sporadic vestibular schwannomas (VS) with a 12‐year follow‐up.

Study Design

Retrospective study of all VS patients initially treated in 2005 in a tertiary referent center.

Methods

Initial decision making for microsurgical resection (MSR) or wait‐and‐scan (WaS) was according to VS size and hearing; subsequently, MSR or stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) was proposed dependent on VS growth and size, hearing, and patient's age or willingness.

Results

Two hundred and one sporadic VS were included. The first management apportionment was 120 WaS (61.5%), 72 MSR (37%), three SRS (1.5%), and six others refused MSR and were lost to follow‐up (LFU). Within 1 year, 95 (47%) VS were surgically removed; 17 (8.5%) were treated by SRS; and 35 (17.5%) were LFU. The proportions for SRS and LFU were virtually unchanged for the following years, and the proportion under MSR increased slightly within 3 years and then remained stable. Finally, at 12 years, 104 (51.5%) cases had been operated on, 21 (10.5%) treated by SRS, 23 (11.5%) still under WaS, and 53 (26.5%) LFU, which were mainly intracanalicular. The initially and subsequently operated cases presented similar hearing preservation rates and good facial nerve function outcomes.

Conclusion

This longitudinal study of a large number of VS, which were diagnosed over a short period of time and followed for 12 years, provides new information on both the natural history of these benign tumors and individual patient concerns. This study recommends use of the WaS policy for small and mid‐sized VS before active therapeutic decision making.

Level of Evidence

3 Laryngoscope, 131:E970–E976, 2021
Validation of the Communicative Participation Item Bank as an Outcome Measure for Spasmodic Dysphonia
Authors: Yiu Yin , Baylor Carolyn R. , Bamer Alyssa M. , Shelly Sandeep , Klein Adam M. , Garrett C. Gaelyn , Pitman Michael J.
Published: July 2020

Objectives

Current patient‐reported outcome measures do not adequately capture the impact of spasmodic dysphonia (SD) on communication in daily life situations. The aim of this study was to validate the Communicative Participation Item Bank (CPIB), which specifically measures a disease's impact on daily conversational situations, as an outcome measure for SD.

Study Design

Multi‐institutional prospective cohort study.

Methods

A prospective study was conducted with administration of the 46‐question CPIB and the Voice Handicap Index‐10 (VHI‐10) to 190 participants with SD before (time 1) and 6 weeks after (time 2) botulinum toxin injection. Differential item function (DIF) analyses were performed to examine potential item bias. Paired t‐tests were used to assess change in each of the CPIB and VHI‐10 scores after treatment. Pearson correlations were calculated between the CPIB and VHI‐10.

Results

DIF analyses revealed no clinically meaningful difference between the item parameters generated for this SD sample and the original CPIB calibration sample. There were statistically significant changes between the pre‐treatment and post‐treatment time points for both the CPIB and VHI‐10. Correlations between the CPIB and VHI were moderate‐high.

Conclusions

The CPIB item bank, General Short Form, and scoring parameters can be used with people with SD for valid and reliable measurement of the impact of communication disorders on communication in everyday life. The CPIB is sensitive to changes with intervention, proving useful for clinical and research purposes to assess the efficacy and effectiveness of interventions.

Level of Evidence

Level 2, prospective observational research with an experimental design (ie, cohort study). Laryngoscope, 131:859–864, 2021