bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intellectual capital, entrepreneurial orientation, and technical innovation in small and medium‐sized enterprises
Authors: Al‐Jinini Dina Khalid , Dahiyat Samer Eid , Bontis Nick
Published: January 2019

The purpose of this paper is to empirically investigate the effects of intellectual capital (IC) on technical innovation (TI) and entrepreneurial orientation (EO) in small and medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs).

Hypotheses were tested using a survey data set of 464 questionnaires collected from senior, middle, and functional managers, in addition to employees working in 63 SMEs operating in Jordan.

The findings show that all IC dimensions have positive significant effects on both TI as well as EO. More specifically, human capital and relational capital emerged as having the strongest effects on TI, whereas relational capital and human competence had the strongest effects on EO. Interestingly, relational capital was the only IC dimension that had a particularly strong and positive significant effect on both EO and TI. Moreover, all EO dimensions had positive significant effects on TI. As for the mediating effect of EO, it was found to have quite a strong and partial mediating effect on the relationship between each IC dimension (relational, structural, human, and human competence) and TI. It was also noted that EO had a particularly strong partial mediating effect on the relationship between structural capital and TI, as well as human competence and TI.

Given the unique context within which SMEs are established and developed, in terms of heavily investing in IC, as well as their supposedly entrepreneurial and innovative nature, this study provides an original contribution to the TI literature.
Establishment of an immortalized human subglottic epithelial cell line
Authors: Powell Jason , Verdon Bernard , Wilson Janet A. , Simpson A. John , Pearson Jeffery , Ward Chris
Published: January 2019

Objective

Translational research into subglottic disease is restricted by the availability of primary human tissue originating from this subsite. Primary epithelial cells are also limited by their inability to survive beyond several divisions in culture outside of the body. Specific subglottic cell lines, useful for in vitro studies, have not yet been described. We therefore demonstrate what we believe to be the first immortalized subglottic epithelial cell line.

Methods

Subglottic tissue was derived from a single adult patient's neoplasia‐free human subglottic brushing specimen. Cells were immortalized using a lentiviral vector expressing simian virus 40 T antigen. Karyotyping was performed on the transformed cells using single nucleotide polymorphism array comparative genomic hybridization. Transformed cells were phenotypically characterized by light microscopy, immunohistochemistry, and electrophysiology studies.

Results

The immortalized subglottic cell line (SG01) was able to divide successfully beyond 20 passages. Karyotyping demonstrated no significant genomic imbalance after immortalization. The cells demonstrated normal epithelial morphology and cytokeratin expression throughout. SG01 cells were also successfully cultured at air–liquid interface (ALI). At ALI cells demonstrated cilia, mucus production, and relevant ion channel expression.

Conclusion

The novel SG01 subglottic epithelial cell line has been established. This cell line provides a unique resource for researchers to investigate subglottic diseases, such as subglottic stenosis.

Level of Evidence

NA. Laryngoscope, 129:2640–2645, 2019
Shrub encroachment increases soil carbon and nitrogen stocks in temperate grasslands in China
Authors: Li He , Shen Haihua , Zhou Luhong , Zhu Yankun , Chen Leiyi , Hu Huifeng , Zhang Pujin , Fang Jingyun
Published: January 2019

Shrub encroachment has significant impacts on carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) dynamics of grassland ecosystems, but, how it influences soil organic C (SOC) and soil total N (STN) stocks of grasslands is not well documented, especially in deep soils. Here, we examined these effects by investigating the SOC density (SOCD) and the STN density (STND) at depths of up to 5 m in shrub patches and grassy matrix at 18 grassland sites in Inner Mongolia, China. Our results revealed that 44.0–54.1% of SOC and 65.5–74.8% of STN were stored in soil layers of 100 cm to 500 cm, and that shrub encroachment resulted in a significant accumulation of SOC and STN in shrub patches. The mean SOCD at 0–500 cm soil layers in shrub patches and grassy matrix was 11.34 and 8.39 kg C m−2, respectively, and the mean STND was 2.45 and 2.13 kg N m−2, respectively. These differences between the shrub patches and grassy matrix were equivalent to an increase in the mean SOC and STN stocks of 2.95 kg C m−2 and 0.32 kg N m−2, respectively. Increases in SOCD and STND mainly occurred in 30–300 cm soil layers, and varied between typical grassland and desert grassland. The changes in SOCD and STND exhibited significant negative correlations with temperature and pH and positive correlations with precipitation and plant biomass. Our findings suggest that shrub encroachment can significantly accumulate SOC and STN in deep soils in temperate grasslands, which helps to understand soil C and N dynamics in shrub‐encroached grasslands.
Stimulation of Microvascular Networks on Sulfonated Polyrotaxane Surfaces with Immobilized Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor
Authors: Hyodo Katsuya , Arisaka Yoshinori , Yamaguchi Satoshi , Yoda Tetsuya , Yui Nobuhiko
Published: January 2019

Modulation of material properties and growth factor application are critical in constructing suitable cell culture environments to induce desired cellular functions. Sulfonated polyrotaxane (PRX) surfaces with immobilized vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGFs) are prepared to improve network formation in vascular endothelial cells. Sulfonated PRXs, whereby sulfonated α‐cyclodextrins (α‐CDs) are threaded onto a linear poly(ethylene glycol) chain capped with bulky groups at both terminals, are coated onto surfaces. The molecular mobility of sulfonated PRX surfaces is modulated by tuning the number of threading α‐CDs. VEGF is immobilized onto surfaces with varying mobility. Low mobility and VEGF‐immobilization reinforce cell proliferation, yes‐associated protein activity, and rhoA, pdgf, ang‐1, and pecam‐1 gene expression. Highly mobile surfaces and soluble VEGF weakly affect these cell responses. Network formation is strongly stimulated in vascular endothelial cells only on low‐mobility VEGF‐immobilized surfaces, suggesting that molecular mobility and VEGF immobilization synergistically control cell function.
Non‐Volatile Glycerin Gel Enhanced by Sub‐5 nm Particles with Super Elasticity, Recoverability, and High Temperature Resistance
Authors: Li Lefan , Wang Qiao , Li Zongjin , Guo Siyao , Sun Guoxing
Published: January 2019

A gel material that can be applied to industry needs to fulfill two requirements: excellent mechanical properties and high temperature resistance. Previous research developed a hydrogel enhanced by sub‐5 nm particles, with excellent mechanical properties. While its application in the open environment is still limited by the volatilization of inner moisture, in this research, a non‐volatile gel (NV gel) enhanced by 5‐nm spherulites is manufactured. The NV gel remains stable after staying at 90 °C for 24 h. Meanwhile, being enhanced by sub‐5 nm nanospherulites, the NV gel shows good mechanical properties: with 200 ppm nanoparticle content, the tensile strength reaches 814 kPa and the compressive stress is 173.41 MPa at a recoverable 99% strain. The high temperature resistance is characterized by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and mechanical testing after thermal treatment. Transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, time of flight secondary ion mass spectrometry, and thermogravimetric analysis are used to evaluate the microstructure of NV gel. Possessing non‐volatile and good mechanical properties at the same time, this NV gel becomes very suitable for fulfilling the application requirement as an engineering material.
Functions of commuting contractions under perturbation
Authors: Peller V. V.
Published: January 2019

The purpose of the paper is to obtain estimates for differences of functions of two pairs of commuting contractions on Hilbert space. In particular, Lipschitz type estimates, Hölder type estimates, Schatten–von Neumann estimates are obtained. The results generalize earlier known results for functions of self‐adjoint operators, normal operators, contractions and dissipative operators.
Longitudinal evaluation of iron concentration and atrophy in the dentate nuclei in friedreich ataxia
Authors: Ward Phillip G. D. , Harding Ian H. , Close Thomas G. , Corben Louise A. , Delatycki Martin B. , Storey Elsdon , Georgiou‐Karistianis Nellie , Egan Gary F.
Published: January 2019

Background

Friedreich ataxia is a recessively inherited, progressive neurological disease characterized by impaired mitochondrial iron metabolism. The dentate nuclei of the cerebellum are characteristic sites of neurodegeneration in the disease, but little is known of the longitudinal progression of abnormalities in these structures.

Methods

Using in vivo magnetic resonance imaging, including quantitative susceptibility mapping, we investigated changes in iron concentration and volume in the dentate nuclei in individuals with Friedreich ataxia (n = 20) and healthy controls (n = 18) over a 2‐year period.

Results

The longitudinal rate of iron concentration was significantly elevated bilaterally in participants with Friedreich ataxia relative to healthy controls. Atrophy rates did not differ significantly between groups. Change in iron concentration and atrophy both correlated with baseline disease severity or duration, indicating sensitivity of these measures to disease stage. Specifically, atrophy was maximal in individuals early in the disease course, whereas the rate of iron concentration increased with disease progression.

Conclusions

Progressive dentate nucleus abnormalities are evident in vivo in Friedreich ataxia, and the rates of change of iron concentration and atrophy in these structures are sensitive to the disease stage. The findings are consistent with an increased rate of iron concentration and atrophy early in the disease, followed by iron accumulation and stable volume in later stages. This pattern suggests that iron dysregulation persists after loss of the vulnerable neurons in the dentate. The significant changes observed over a 2‐year period highlight the utility of quantitative susceptibility mapping as a longitudinal biomarker and staging tool. © 2019 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Assimilation of soil moisture and temperature in the GRAPES_Meso model using an ensemble Kalman filter
Authors: Wang Lili
Published: January 2019

Soil moisture and temperature are significant variables in numerical weather prediction systems and land surface models, controlling the partitioning of moisture and energy fluxes at the surface. The ensemble Kalman filter (EnKF) is an approximation to the Kalman filter in that background error covariances are estimated from a finite ensemble of forecasts. The EnKF technique is now widely applied in data assimilation of the atmosphere, ocean and land surface. In the current GRAPES_Meso model version V4.0, the land surface soil assimilation method has not been integrated for land surface assimilation. Therefore, in this work, an EnKF has been introduced in the GRAPES_Meso model using air temperature at 2 m and the relative humidity at 2 m and its performance has been evaluated in land surface assimilation. The results show that the land surface assimilation method can effectively improve the performance skill of air temperature at 2 m and it has little effect on precipitation.
Impact of IL1R1 and IL1R2 gene polymorphisms on risk of osteonecrosis of the femoral head from a case–control study
Authors: An Feimeng , Wang Jiaqi , Gao Hongyan , Liu Chang , Tian Ye , Jin Tianbo , Liu Wanlin , Wang Jianzhong
Published: January 2019

Aim

Osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH) refers to bony changes caused by osteocyte death under the effects of complicated factors, which is caused by genetic factors and certain risk factors. Our study aimed to explore whether IL1R1/IL1R2 polymorphisms influenced ONFH risk in the Chinese Han population.

Methods

We selected 286 patients and 441 controls, with 11 single‐nucleotide polymorphisms in IL1R1 and IL1R2 gene were successfully genotyped, and evaluated the associations using the chi‐squared test, Fisher's exact test, T test, and genetic model analyses. Odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using unconditional logistic regression.

Results

In the allele model, rs11674595 in IL1R2 was associated with increasing the risk of ONFH, the rs10490571 and rs3917225 in IL1R1 gene were associated with an increased risk of ONFH, respectively. In the genetic model, the rs11674595 in IL1R2 gene was associated with an increased risk of ONFH in the codominant model, dominant model, and log‐additive model, respectively. The rs10490571 and rs3917225 in IL1R1 gene conferred an increased risk of ONFH in the codominant model, dominant model, and log‐additive model, respectively. We found none of the haplotypes in the IL1R2 gene was significantly associated with theONFH risk.

Conclusion

Our findings have demonstrated that the rs11674595 (IL1R2), rs10490571, and rs3917225 (IL1R1) were significantly associated with increasing the ONFH risk in the Chinese Han population.
Opportunities, challenges for field in 2019 signal busy year
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: January 2019

For our first issue of the year, we asked our readers for their thoughts on the challenges and opportunities awaiting the field in 2019. Here are some of the comments we received. Many thanks to all who responded.
Identification of amniotic fluid metabolomic and placental transcriptomic changes associated with abnormal development of cloned pig fetuses
Authors: Ao Zheng , Li Zicong , Wang Xingwang , Zhao Chengfa , Gan Yanmin , Wu Xiao , Zeng Fang , Shi Junsong , Gu Ting , Hong Linjun , Zheng Enqin , Liu Dewu , Xu Zheng , Wu Zhenfang , Cai Gengyuan
Published: January 2019

Piglets cloned by somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) show a high incidence of malformations and a high death rate during the perinatal period. To investigate the underlying mechanisms for abnormal development of cloned pig fetuses, we compared body weight, amniotic fluid (AF) metabolome, and placental transcriptome between SCNT‐ and artificial insemination (AI)‐derived pig fetuses. Results showed that the body weight of SCNT pig fetuses was significantly lower than that of AI pig fetuses. The identified differential metabolites between the two groups of AF were mainly involved in bile acids and steroid hormones. The levels of all detected bile acids in SCNT AF were significantly higher than those in AI AF. The increase in the AF bile acid levels in SCNT fetuses was linked with the downregulation of placental bile acid transporter expression and the abnormal development of placental folds (PFs), both of which negatively affected the transfer of bile acids from AF across the placenta into the mother’s circulation. Alteration in the AF steroid hormone levels in cloned fetuses was associated with decreased expression of enzymes responsible for steroid hormone biosynthesis in the placenta. In conclusion, cloned pig fetuses undergo abnormal intrauterine development associated with alteration of bile acid and steroid hormone levels in AF, which may be due to the poor development of PFs and the erroneous expression of bile acid transporters and enzymes responsible for steroid hormone biosynthesis in the placentas.
Ascorbic acid diminishes bone morphogenetic protein 2‐induced osteogenic differentiation of muscle precursor cells
Authors: Ferrazzo Paige C. , Niccoli Sarah , Khaper Neelam , Rathbone Christopher R. , Lees Simon J.
Published: January 2019

Introduction

Muscle precursor cells (MPC) are integral to the maintenance of skeletal muscle and have recently been implicated in playing a role in bone repair. The primary objective of this study was to understand better the role of oxidative stress during the osteogenic differentiation of MPCs.

Methods

Muscle precursor cells were treated with various combinations of ascorbic acid (AA), bone morphogenetic protein (BMP)‐2, and either a superoxide dismutase analog (4‐hydroxy‐TEMPO [TEMPOL]) or polyethyleneglycol‐conjugated catalase. Muscle precursor cell proliferation and differentiation were determined, and alkaline phosphatase activity was measured as an index of osteogenic differentiation.

Results

After treatment with 200 μM AA, superoxide was increased 1.5‐fold, whereas AA in combination with 100 ng/ml BMP‐2 did not increase alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity. When cells were treated with TEMPOL in combination with 100 ng/ml BMP‐2 and 200 μM AA, ALP activity significantly increased.

Discussion

These data suggest that increasing oxidative stress with AA induces sublethal oxidative stress that prevents BMP‐2‐induced osteogenic differentiation of MPCs. Muscle Nerve 59:501–508, 2019
Bariatric Surgery Alters microRNA Content of Circulating Exosomes in Patients with Obesity
Authors: Bae Yun‐Ui , Kim Yongjin , Lee Haekyung , Kim Hyoungnae , Jeon Jin Seok , Noh Hyunjin , Han Dong Cheol , Ryu Seongho , Kwon Soon Hyo
Published: January 2019

Objective

Exosomal microRNAs (miRNAs) are potential biomarkers for obesity, in which they regulate biological processes. Bariatric surgery has health benefits for patients with obesity; however, the mechanisms of these benefits are not clear. This study attempted to identify the exosomal miRNA signature associated with obesity and how it changed after bariatric surgery.

Methods

Healthy volunteers (HVs) and nondiabetic patients with obesity were prospectively enrolled in the study. The study assessed the serum exosomal miRNA profiles of HVs and patients with obesity using RNA sequencing. To evaluate the effects of bariatric surgery, the study also analyzed exosomal miRNAs in patients 6 months after surgery.

Results

RNA sequencing revealed differential expression of 72 exosomal miRNAs in patients with obesity compared with HVs and differential expression of 41 miRNAs in post‐ versus presurgery blood. Among the differentially expressed miRNAs, the study identified nine surgery‐responsive miRNAs that were highly expressed in patients before surgery compared with HVs. Biological pathway analysis of the nine miRNAs indicated that they are likely involved in WNT, neurotrophin, and insulin signaling; the insulin receptor signaling cascade; and focal adhesion.

Conclusions

Patients with obesity have a distinct exosomal miRNA expression profile compared with HVs. In addition, weight loss after surgery alters the exosomal miRNA profile of patients with obesity.
Prepare Now for Upcoming Regulatory Changes
Authors: Carpenter Adam T.
Published: January 2019

A year ago, I wrote about considerable uncertainty in the regulatory process (see “Uncertainty Abounds in the Regulatory Process,” Opflow, January 2018). Most of the trends that led to those conclusions are still in play.
Consider Not‐So‐Hidden Costs of Not Managing Assets
Authors: Morgan Kenneth
Published: January 2019

An asset provides service for a typical number of years based on materials used, proper construction and installation procedures, and appropriate operation and maintenance practices. But an asset's life expectancy is often reduced as a result of neglect.
Millennials Are Motivated to Make a Difference
Authors: Jensen Jeanne M.
Published: January 2019

Millennials are optimistic, talented, educated, and dedicated—and water utilities have an extraordinary opportunity to attract them to the workforce. But putting millennials into optimum roles and keeping them engaged requires a unique approach.
Hunting behaviour in domestic cats: An exploratory study of risk and responsibility among cat owners
Authors: Crowley Sarah L. , Cecchetti Martina , McDonald Robbie A.
Published: January 2019

The potential impact of domestic cats on wildlife is the subject of growing international interest and concern. While feral cats are often the primary focus of research and debate, in many societies a substantial proportion of domestic cats are owned by private individuals. We present a typology that classifies domestic cats in relation to varying degrees of human control over their reproduction, movement, and provisioning. Understanding the perceptions and practices of cat owners will be key to identifying and mitigating any negative ecological effects of cat hunting behaviour.

To investigate how cat owners perceive (a) their pets’ hunting behaviour, (b) their responsibilities for managing this, and (c) the mitigation strategies available, we conducted detailed interviews with a diverse sample of cat owners in the United Kingdom.

We identified a spectrum of views on hunting behaviour, from owners who perceived hunting as positive (for pest control, or as healthy cat behaviour) to those who were deeply concerned about its consequences for wild animals, their populations, and welfare. However, hunting was widely understood as a normal, natural component of cat behaviour, and owners rarely perceived a strong individual responsibility for preventing or reducing it.

Those who did wish to manage hunting perceived several barriers to this, including concern that they were unable to control behaviour effectively without compromising cat welfare, doubt about the efficacy and practicality of popular mitigation measures, and unfamiliarity with alternative options. We recommend that (a) initiatives directed at changing cat owners’ behaviour consider the multiple factors and competing priorities that inform their decision‐making (particularly cat health and welfare and practicality or cost of interventions); (b) researchers work collaboratively with cat owners and veterinary, cat welfare, and conservation organizations to identify effective solutions, and (c) some degree of accountability for managing problematic hunting behaviour should be promoted as a part of “responsible pet ownership” initiatives.

A plain language summary is available for this article.
Noninvasive screening by cell‐free DNA for 22q11.2 deletion: Benefits, limitations, and challenges
Authors: Grati Francesca Romana , Gross Susan J.
Published: January 2019

Cell‐free DNA (cfDNA) testing for fetal aneuploidy is one of the most important technical advances in prenatal care. Additional chromosome targets beyond common aneuploidies, including the 22q11.2 microdeletion, are now available because of this clinical testing technology. While there are numerous potential benefits, 22q11.2 microdeletion screening using cfDNA testing also presents significant limitations and pitfalls. Practitioners who are offering this test should provide comprehensive pretest and posttest prenatal counselling. The discussion should include the possibility of an absence of a result, as well as the risk of possible discordance between cfDNA screening results and the actual fetal genetic chromosomal constitution. The goal of this review is to provide an overview of the cfDNA testing technologies for 22q11.2 microdeletions screening, describe the current state of test validation and clinical experience, review “no results” and discordant findings based on differing technologies, and discuss management options.
Rates of reported codeine‐related poisonings and codeine prescribing following new national guidance in Ireland
Authors: Kennedy Cormac , Duggan Edel , Bennett Kathleen , Williams David J.
Published: January 2019

Purpose

The aims of this study were to examine a national database to assess codeine poisonings before and after the new guidance for pharmacists while also evaluating rates of codeine prescriptions following the introduction of restrictions on supply.

Methods

Anonymised enquiry data of reported poisoning cases were reviewed for a period from 2005 to 2016 inclusive. The rate of pharmacy claims for codeine containing products was also examined using the national pharmacy claims database. Segmented regression analysis was used to detect changes in poisonings and claims before and after the new guidance.

Results

There were 1851 codeine‐related poisonings reported over the study period. An annual decline was evident with a significant 33% reduction from 2010 to 2011 (β2 coefficient for level change, 42.1; 95% CI, −68.1 to −16.0; P = 0.006). Following 2011, the declining rate of codeine poisonings plateaued. Analysis of the national pharmacy claims data revealed no change in the reimbursement rate for co‐codamol products restricted by the guidance in 2010 (Incidence rate ratio 1.04, 95% CI, 0.997‐1.08; P = 0.07). There was no corresponding increase in the reimbursement of alternative opioid medications.

Conclusions

New guidance on codeine supply coincided with an initial reduction in reported codeine poisoning cases. This reduction was in keeping with the previous trend. However, this was without an increase in the prevailing rate of prescription claims for these products or potential substitutes. Policymakers may consider further restriction of codeine products to improve public health outcomes.
T2 mapping in the quantitative evaluation of articular cartilage changes in children with hemophilia: A pilot study
Authors: Zhang Ningning , Lv Yanqiu , Liu Yue , Yin Guangheng , Hu Di , Wu Runhui , Peng Yun
Published: January 2019

Importance

Joint disease affects more than 90% of severe hemophiliacs. Early diagnosis is critical in preventing hemophilic arthritis. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) enables visualization of early arthropathic changes and plays an important role in treatment.

Objective

To evaluate the role of T2 mapping in detecting early cartilage lesions in the knee and ankle joints of children with hemophilic arthropathy.

Methods

Target joints of 15 male patients with clinically confirmed moderate or severe hemophilia were evaluated with MRI. In addition to routine MRI protocols (T1WI, T2_FFE, T2_SPAIR, PDW_TSE), T2 mapping was used to evaluate the articular cartilage of target joints.

Results

The mean T2 value of the distal femoral cartilage was 46.72 ± 10.94 ms, which is higher than the reported age‐matched normal value (40.27 ± 3.50 ms). The mean T2 value of the proximal tibial cartilage was 45.60 ± 8.82 ms, which is higher than the reported normal value (31.15 ± 1.86 ms). Four examined joints (two ankles, two knees) showed normal morphology with no abnormal signal on routine MR sequences. However, T2 mapping showed locally increased T2 values in the cartilage, along with uneven color scales.

Interpretation

The quantitative assessment method of T2 mapping might be helpful to early diagnosis for articular cartilage lesions. It might be a potential tool for early assessment of cartilage changes and quantification of lesion's severity for hemophilia joint.
Clinicoradiologic features of Mycoplasma pneumoniae bronchiolitis in children
Authors: Wen Xiaohui , Liu Jinrong , Li Huimin , Zhao Chengsong , Zhao Shunying
Published: January 2019

Importance

Acute Mycoplasma pneumoniae bronchiolitis can progress into bronchiolitis obliterans (BO) in children, which has a major influence on a child's quality of life and is associated with M. pneumoniae bronchiolitis. Early identification and treatment of M. pneumoniae bronchiolitis is important to prevent the development of BO.

Objective

To enhance the understanding of the diagnosis and treatment of M. pneumoniae bronchiolitis in children.

Methods

Eight patients with M. pneumoniae bronchiolitis were retrospectively analyzed.

Results

Five of the patients with M. pneumoniae bronchiolitis were male and three of them were female. All patients suffered from fever and cough. Moist rales and wheezing were noted in both lungs in six patients. High‐resolution computed tomography of the chest showed bronchiolitis in all patients, with large airway injury in two and focal bronchopneumonia in six. Two patients were confirmed to have asthma. Seven patients had personal and/or family histories of atopic diseases. Allergen testing was performed in six patients, which produced positive results in four; the remaining two patients had negative results, but their total IgE levels were > 200 IU/ml. Azithromycin therapy and glucocorticoid therapy was administered to all eight patients. One patient required noninvasive ventilation. Treatment of all patients was successful, with no development of bronchiolitis obliterans during the 4‐ to 8‐month follow‐up.

Interpretation

Mycoplasma pneumoniae bronchiolitis can occur in children, especially in atopic individuals. The use, time of initiation, and effects of glucocorticoids administration in these patients for the prevention of BO require further investigation.
Use of a Bioinformatics‐Based Toxicity Scoring System to Assess Serotonin Burden and Predict Population‐Level Adverse Drug Events from Concomitant Serotonergic Drug Therapy
Authors: Culbertson Vaughn L. , Rahman Shaikh Emdadur , Bosen Grayson C. , Caylor Matthew L. , Xu Dong
Published: January 2019

Study Objective

Numerous medications interact at serotonin (5‐hydroxytryptamine [5‐HT]) receptors directly or through off‐target interactions, causing mild to severe serotonergic adverse drug events (ADEs), particularly among older adults. Our objective was to develop a novel molecular‐based toxicity scoring system to assess serotonergic burden resulting from concurrently administered drugs. Quantitative methods to assess serotonergic burden may provide a useful clinical tool for improving pharmacotherapy.

Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Data Sources

PharMetrics Legacy health claims database (January 2001–December 2013) and ChEMBL bioactivity database.

Patients

A 2–serotonergic drug exposure cohort (78,172 patients) and a 3–serotonergic drug exposure cohort (19,900 patients) were generated, and population‐level statistics were collected. Nonexposure cohorts were created for each drug exposure cohort and matched in a 4:1 ratio for age, sex, and length of enrollment.

Measurements and Main Results

Eight 5‐HT medications were screened against multiple bioactivity databases to identify their off‐target interactions at 5‐HT receptors and serotonin reuptake transporter protein. A computational serotonin burden score (SBS) was derived from the receptor‐specific interaction propensities reported from the comprehensive bioactivity screen. Linear regression was used to characterize associations between SBSs and combined total ADE incidence rate detected by International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification, diagnosis codes. A significantly greater incidence of 17 potential 5‐HT–related ADEs was seen in exposed serotonergic drug cohorts (p<0.05). A positive correlation between SBS and overall ADE incidence rate in the 2–serotonergic drug exposure cohort (R2 = 0.69, p<0.34) and 3‐drug cohort (R2 = 0.85, p<0.01) was observed. When both drug cohorts were combined, total drug SBSs strongly correlated with the composite 5‐HT adverse event rate (R2 = 0.92, p<0.0001). Despite an increasing burden of illness, these data suggest that drug combinations with higher SBSs are associated with a higher rate of potential serotonergic ADEs.

Conclusion

In this test of concept, positive associations between SBSs and serotonin‐related ADEs suggest that it may offer a pharmacologic‐based foundation for developing risk assessment tools to assist in optimizing pharmacotherapy.
Do Parliamentary Debates of e‐Petitions Enhance Public Engagement With Parliament? An Analysis of Twitter Conversations
Authors: Asher Molly , Leston‐Bandeira Cristina , Spaiser Viktoria
Published: January 2019

The U.K. Parliament introduced an e‐petitions system in 2015 with the aim of significantly enhancing its relationship with the public. We explore whether this aim is being met through the analysis of Twitter data from conversations on e‐petitions debated in parliament. We use natural language processing, machine learning, and social network analysis of Twitter data to explore what it shows about the extent of people's engagement, the contents of Twitter e‐petition conversations, who is taking part, and how they interact. Our findings provide interesting insights into how people perceive the e‐petition procedures in terms of fairness and responsiveness, suggesting that petition parliamentary debates should be more inclusive of the original petitions’ aims. The results also point to homophily tendencies present in the Twitter e‐petition discussions.
Neonatal bronchoscopy: Role in respiratory disease of the newborn—A 7 year experience
Authors: Mackanjee Harshavadan R. , Naidoo Lerusha , Ramkaran Prithiksha , Sartorius Benn , Chuturgoon Anil A.
Published: January 2019

Background

Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) is a standardized method to obtain specimen samples from the airway lumen of the respiratory system. BAL is used to diagnose lung infection and infection markers in neonates.

Objectives

The aim was to evaluate the utility of flexible fiberoptic bronchoscopy in term and preterm neonates and to evaluate the use of BAL obtained by bronchoscopy in neonatal lung disease.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) babies, during a 7‐year period was conducted on 599 neonates who underwent the BAL procedure. Characteristics of the patients, indications, complications, and results of the procedure were recorded.

Results

The main indications were nosocomial pneumonia (140) and unilateral lung disease (74). A normal finding was most prevalent (201), followed by tracheitis (65). Microbiology on BAL fluid was positive in 33% of bronchoscopies (195/599); most common organisms isolated were Acinetobacter, Klebsiella, and Pseudomonas.

Conclusions

Neonatal bronchoscopy can serve as an important diagnostic and therapeutic tool in the management of neonatal lung disease, BAL specimen microbiology from bronchoscopy directs clinical decision making in the management of neonatal lung infection. Individual common markers of infection have poor correlation to BAL. A combination of the markers, however, improves correlation with BAL but their utility in clinical management of lung infection is subject to caution. A negative BAL may shift management emphasis on minimizing lung injury especially in neonates who are ventilator dependent; BAL has the potential to critically affect the management of babies with significant lung disease especially when ventilator dependent.
Investigating the Role of Band Offset on the Property and Operation of the Potential Well Barrier Diodes
Authors: Akura Mise , Dunn Geoffrey
Published: January 2019

The impact of grading the GaAs/AlGaAs interface on carrier dynamics in a potential well barrier (PWB) diode has been explored and demonstrated in this paper. Three heterostructures in the GaAs/AlGaAs system namely GaAs/Al0.2Ga0.8As, GaAs/Al0.3Ga0.7As, and GaAs/Al0.4Ga0.6As with corresponding band offsets of 0.10, 0.25, and 0.30 eV, respectively, are investigated using the drift‐diffusion (DD) and Monte Carlo (MC) models. The behavior of the diodes with different band offsets are compared in terms of mean electron velocity, mean electron energy, and density of charge along the intrinsic regions and in the potential well. The MC simulation model enables the effects of space‐charge injection and carrier heating, which are not included in previous study of these structures, be treated quantitatively. Significant differences exist in the behavior of the three heterojunctions as this impacts the curvature coefficient and ideality factor of the diode. Both the ideality factor and curvature coefficient reflect the magnitude of band offset of the heterojunctions (interface).
Modulated Preparation of Capillary Monolithic HILIC Column by Target‐Analogues of Matrine and Oxymatrine and Applied for Extracted Analysis of Sophorae flavescentis radix
Authors: Bi Xiaodong , Tian Wei , Wang Yingchun , Cao Wenli , Fan Shuaishuai , Wang Meng , Niu Liying
Published: January 2019

Hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography (HILIC), as a powerful LC method for polar compounds, has gained increasing attention in developing new HILIC stationary phases and analytical methods. Instead of using standardized substance representing different molecular force types to evaluate chromatographic performance, the analyte targets, structural analogues of matrine and oxymatrine, are applied to modulate the preparation of carboxyl group modified column in a HILIC mode. The feasibility of target‐modulating preparation of HILIC column was demonstrated that target‐involved optimization could effectively reflect the performance of analytes directly onto the modulation of column preparation, and hence optimize out suitable preparation conditions different from otherwise methods. And the resulting monolith was tested in the analysis of the standard medicinal materials of Sophorae flavescentis radix. The target‐modulating strategy was proved to be an efficient alternative to guide the preparation of HILIC monolith column.
Photolysis of PCl3/POCl3 with Oxygen Dopant Using 193 nm ArF Excimer at Low Temperatures: Oxygen Insertion through ‘Phosphadioxirane’ Pathway
Authors: Ramanathan Nagarajan , Sarkar Shubhra , Sankaran Kannan , Sundararajan Kalyanasundaram
Published: January 2019

Photolysis was performed on PCl3 and POCl3 in the presence of oxygen dopant in Ar matrix at low temperatures using 193 nm ArF excimer laser. The photo irradiation initially facilitated the formation of ozone in situ in the low temperature matrix. For PCl3+O2 photolysis with 193 nm ArF excimer, initially POCl3 was produced and subsequent oxygen atom insertion on POCl3 generated PO2Cl3. Furthermore, secondary reaction channel opens up in PCl3+O2 photolysis to form a variety of photoproducts such as POCl, PIIIO2Cl, PVO2Cl and PO3Cl. The insertion of oxygen atom on POCl through phosphadioxirane intermediate generated PIIIO2Cl and the direct oxygen atom addition resulted in PVO2Cl. A successive oxygen insertion on PVO2Cl triggered the PO3Cl generation. The identification of all the photoproducts was confirmed through 18O2 isotopic experiments and quantum chemical computations performed using density functional theory (DFT). Computations carried out at B3LYP level of theory with 6–311++G(d,p) basis set were used to correlate the structure of photo products obtained experimentally. Interestingly, photo irradiation of POCl3 with oxygen dopant in Ar matrix @193 nm ArF excimer resulted in the generation of PO2Cl3, PO3Cl3 and PO4Cl3 photo products by a sequential insertion of oxygen atoms through phosphadioxirane intermediate. A compelling evidence for the passage of the reaction through phosphadioxirane intermediate is established through 18O2 isotopic substitution experiments.
AgPd Alloy Nanoparticles Decorated MoS2 2D Nanosheets: Efficient Hydrogen Evolution Catalyst in Wide pH Condition
Authors: Sharma Mamta Devi , Mahala Chavi , Basu Mrinmoyee
Published: January 2019

2D nanosheets of different metal chalcogenides have attracted potential interest due to their appealing physical and chemical properties. In this present study we have developed a novel approach for the synthesis of 2D sheets of MoS2 following a simple hydrothermal method. Using a simple wet‐chemical route, surface of 2D sheets of MoS2 are modified with AgPd alloy nanoparticles following galvanic exchange technique. Electrocatalytic activity towards hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) of MoS2, MoS2/Ag, and AgPd alloy was checked in a wide range of pH condition. In 0.5 M H2SO4, bare MoS2 nanosheets can generate 10 mA/cm2 current density upon application of only −0.329 V vs. reversible hydrogen electrode (RHE). After successful decoration of Ag nanoparticle, MoS2/Ag shows improved activity compared to bare MoS2 sheets. MoS2/Ag can generate current density 10 mA/cm2 only by applying −0.299 V vs. RHE. Further MoS2/AgPd‐1 can generate 10 mA/cm2 current density upon application of −0.229 V vs. RHE. So, from the result it is clear that the successive inclusion of Pd in place of Ag results in higher electrocatalytic activity. Again, MoS2/AgPd‐2 can generate 10 mA/cm2 current density upon application of only −0.215 V vs. RHE. All the metal and alloy nanoparticle decorated MoS2 show excellent stability in hydrogen evolution reaction. MoS2, MoS2/AgPd‐1 and MoS2/AgPd‐2 can generate unaltered current density up to 30 h.
Large‐Area Material and Junction Damage in c–Si Solar Cells by Potential‐Induced Degradation
Authors: Xiao Chuanxiao , Jiang Chun‐Sheng , Harvey Steve P. , Sulas Dana , Chen Xihan , Liu Jun , Pan Jie , Moutinho Helio , Norman Andrew , Hacke Peter , Johnston Steve , Al‐Jassim Mowafak
Published: January 2019

This paper reports a new potential‐induced degradation (PID) mechanism for crystalline silicon (c–Si), where Na diffuses everywhere and causes large‐area material and junction degradation with point defects. Multiple characterization techniques are combined—Kelvin probe force microscopy, electron‐beam induced current, dark lock‐in thermography, transmission electron microscopy, time‐of‐flight secondary‐ion mass spectrometry, and microwave photoconductance decay—as well as density functional theory (DFT) calculations. These characterization techniques and theoretical calculations are complementary in various aspects of a material's chemical, structural, electrical, and optoelectrical nature, as well as in atomic, nanometer, micrometer, millimeter, and cell and module scales. All results point consistently to a new discovery: substantial large‐area deterioration of materials and junctions play a major role in c–Si PID (in addition to the previously reported local shunting defect caused by Na diffusion to planar defects). This new finding reveals a key PID component and leads to a new strategy for tailoring c–Si photovoltaics to ultimately resolve the PID issue.
The Effects of Hydrogen Iodide Back Surface Treatment on CdTe Solar Cells
Authors: Awni Rasha A. , Li Deng‐Bing , Grice Corey R. , Song Zhaoning , Razooqi Mohammed A. , Phillips Adam B. , Bista Sandip Singh , Roland Paul J. , Alfadhili Fadhil K. , Ellingson Randy J. , Heben Michael J. , Li Jian V. , Yan Yanfa
Published: January 2019

An appropriate electrical back contact in CdTe solar cells is crucial to achieving high power conversion efficiency. In this work, a facile back surface treatment method for CdTe solar cells using hydroiodic acid (HI) is developed, and the effects of HI etching on the CdTe surfaces investigated. The electrical properties of the CdTe absorber and interfaces are characterized by current–voltage, capacitance–voltage, admittance spectroscopy, and complex capacitance spectroscopy measurements. The HI‐etched devices show slightly higher apparent carrier concentrations than the control devices, suggesting an increased copper doping in the CdTe absorber. The potential barrier height of the back contact is reduced from 0.430 to 0.368 eV after the HI‐treatment, accompanied by reduced contact resistance and carrier recombination. Additionally, the HI‐treatment eliminates a defect signature at 0.409 eV. The HI‐treatment effects lead to improved power conversion efficiency through enhancement of the fill factor, the short circuit current, and open circuit voltage.
Efficiency of the confinement reinforcement in anchorage zones of posttensioning tendons
Authors: Marchão Carla , Lúcio Válter , Ganz Hans R.
Published: January 2019

In order to study the efficiency of the confinement reinforcement in anchorage zones of posttensioning tendons, using both ordinary reinforced concrete (ORC) and high‐performance fiber reinforced concrete (HPFRC), an experimental research has been performed on the bearing strength of concrete prismatic specimens. This research also intended to assess both ultimate capacity and adequate serviceability of the local anchorage zone when reducing the concrete cross section and the confining reinforcement, both specified by the anchorage device supplier, by using an HPFRC. The experimental program included ORC prismatic specimens with 305 mm × 305 mm × 650 mm reinforced with spirals and a combination of spirals and stirrups, and HPFRC specimens with 210 mm × 210 mm × 420 mm reinforced with stirrups. The reinforcement steel strains were measured to monitor the steel yielding, to assess the relation between the strains of the inner (spiral) and outer (stirrups) levels of reinforcement and the uniformity of the confinement forces along the confined length. A comparison between the bearing strength obtained by experimental tests and by models found in the literature is also presented. From the strain measurements, it can be concluded that in the case where there are, simultaneously, two types of confinement reinforcement, the outer reinforcement is not as effective as the inner one. Therefore, when computing the bearing strength, the linear superposition of contributions of both spiral and stirrups for confinement can be nonconservative, leading to too high estimated load capacity.
Visual Narrative and Temporal Relevance: Segueing Instant Replay into Live Broadcast TV
Authors: Perry Mark , Broth Mathias , Engström Arvid , Juhlin Oskar
Published: January 2019

Professional production of live TV combines real‐time and recorded video into a single broadcast stream. In “live” TV, non‐live “instant replay” footage can help viewers to make sense of what has just happened. This article shows how multi‐person TV production teams assemble timely and relevant instant replays that can be seamlessly combined with real‐time footage during live broadcasts. Detailed interaction analysis demonstrates how this work is dependent on coordinated practices, and how team members achieve this by orienting to narrative concerns across multiple temporalities to produce topically useful instant replays, displaying clip relevance, and help segueing transitions between the ongoing action and replay. We conclude by examining the interrelationships between the sequential flow of visual content, the role of talk in mediating time‐shifted visual alignments, and how members make their work visible and accountable to one another and to their intended audience.
A frequency and duration analysis method for probabilistic optimal power flow with wind farms
Authors: Zhu Jinzhou , Zhang Yan , Chen HaiBo
Published: January 2019

Probabilistic optimal power flow (POPF) is an important tool in power system planning and operation. One limitation of conventional POPF is that only the probability information of random variables is obtained as a reference for related analyses. Frequency and duration information often plays an important role in power system assessment. In this study, a frequency and duration analysis method for POPF with wind farms (WFs) is proposed, which is based on Markov chains by improving the traditional probability‐frequency distribution function (PFDF) method. The main advantage of the proposed method is that highly accurate solutions can be obtained with less computation. Random input variables, including intermittent loads and WF power outputs associated with both wind speed uncertainties and wind turbine (WT) failures, are modeled using the corresponding PFDFs. With the proposed method, not only probability information but also frequency and duration information of random POPF outputs are efficiently and analytically computed through the operations of PFDFs of random inputs. Moreover, an optimization method for determining the clustering number of random states is proposed to improve the credibility of stochastic process modeling of Markov‐chain‐based random variables. The test on the modified IEEE‐RTS79 system with WFs demonstrates the rapidity and validity of the proposed method. © 2019 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.