bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Translation of peptidoglycan metabolites into immunotherapeutics
Authors: Griffin Matthew E , Hespen Charles W , Wang Yen‐Chih , Hang Howard C
Published: November 2019

The discovery of defined peptidoglycan metabolites that activate host immunity and their specific receptors has revealed fundamental insights into host–microbe recognition and afforded new opportunities for therapeutic development against infection and cancer. In this review, we summarise the discovery of two key peptidoglycan metabolites, γ‐d‐glutamyl‐meso‐diaminopimelic acid (iE‐DAP) and muramyl dipeptide and their respective receptors, Nod1 and Nod2, and review progress towards translating these findings into therapeutic agents. Notably, synthetic derivatives of peptidoglycan metabolites have already yielded approved drugs for chemotherapy‐induced leukopenia and paediatric osteosarcoma; however, the broad effects of peptidoglycan metabolites on host immunity suggest additional translational opportunities for new therapeutics towards other cancers, microbial infections and inflammatory diseases.
Efficient workflow scheduling in cloud computing for security maintenance of sensitive data
Authors: S. Shahul Hammed , Arunkumar B.
Published: November 2019

The seamless conveying of information's considering internet as a virtual space, connecting all users from the world is cloud computing. In simpler terms it is a means of storing and accessing information over internet irrespective of place and time. The cloud proceeds with the process of storing, retrieving and allowing access, on demand as a paid service. As the benefits of cloud is attractive, the number of users adopting to the cloud also increases, so the workflow management becomes tedious and more challenging in the cloud. The decision to provide with an enhanced work flow management requires proper scheduling recollecting value of the information. So the paper proposes with an efficient method of managing the work flow considering the value of the information by categorizing between the much value and non‐value information's and framing the algorithm that functions as scheduler using the parallel implementation in natural process of genetic algorithm (GA) with secured frame work for the information's of high value. The proposed work shows an overwhelmed performance than the conventional techniques in the time taken for the execution and its total cost. The performance of the scheduler is validated in the WORKFLOWSIM on the grounds of time of execution and total cost.
Beamforming and power allocation in the downlink of MIMO cognitive radio systems based on multiobjective optimization
Authors: Asgari Tabatabaee Seyyed Mohammad Javad , Abbasi‐Jannatabad Mohsen
Published: November 2019

In this paper, power allocation and beamforming are considered in a multiple input multiple output (MIMO) downlink cognitive radio (CR) communication system, which a base station (BS) serves one primary user (PU) and one secondary user (SU). In order to design the CR system, a constrained multiobjective optimization problem is presented. Two objectives are the signal to noise plus interference ratios (SINRs) of PU and SU. Since PU has a spectrum license for data communication, a constraint in the optimization problem is that the SINR of PU must be greater than a predefined threshold based on the PU demand requirement. Another constraint is a limitation on power in BS. By considering the mentioned model, three iterative algorithms are proposed. At each iteration of all algorithms, the receiver beamforming vectors are derived based on the maximization of PU and SU SINRs, by assuming that the allocated powers and BS beamforming vectors are known. Also, power is assigned to users such that the constraint of power limitation is satisfied. The difference between the algorithms is in the obtaining of transmitter beamforming parameters. We evaluate the performance of the proposed algorithms in terms of bit error rate (BER) in simulations. Also, the computational complexity of the proposed algorithms is obtained.
Generating and testing ecological hypotheses at the pondscape with environmental DNA metabarcoding: A case study on a threatened amphibian
Authors: Harper Lynsey R. , Lawson Handley Lori , Hahn Christoph , Boonham Neil , Rees Helen C. , Lewis Erin , Adams Ian P. , Brotherton Peter , Phillips Susanna , Hänfling Bernd
Published: November 2019

Background

Environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding is revolutionizing biodiversity monitoring, but has unrealized potential for ecological hypothesis generation and testing.

Aims

Here, we validate this potential in a large‐scale analysis of vertebrate community data generated by eDNA metabarcoding of 532 UK ponds.

Materials & Methods

We test biotic associations between the threatened great crested newt (Triturus cristatus) and other vertebrates as well as abiotic factors influencing T. cristatus detection at the pondscape. Furthermore, we test the status of T. cristatus as an umbrella species for pond conservation by assessing whether vertebrate species richness is greater in ponds with T. cristatus and higher T. cristatus Habitat Suitability Index (HSI) scores.

Results

Triturus cristatus detection was positively correlated with amphibian and waterfowl species richness. Specifically, T. cristatus was positively associated with smooth newt (Lissotriton vulgaris), common coot (Fulica atra), and common moorhen (Gallinula chloropus), but negatively associated with common toad (Bufo bufo). Triturus cristatus detection did not significantly decrease as fish species richness increased, but negative associations with common carp (Cyprinus carpio), three‐spined stickleback (Gasterosteus aculeatus), and ninespine stickleback (Pungitius pungitius) were identified. Triturus cristatus detection was negatively correlated with mammal species richness, and T. cristatus was negatively associated with gray squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis). Triturus cristatus detection was negatively correlated with larger pond area, presence of inflow, and higher percentage of shading, but positively correlated with HSI score, supporting its application to T. cristatus survey. Vertebrate species richness was significantly higher in T. cristatus ponds and broadly increased as T. cristatus HSI scores increased.

Discussion

We reaffirm reported associations (e.g., T. cristatus preference for smaller ponds) but also provide novel insights, including a negative effect of pond inflow on T. cristatus.

Conclusion

Our findings demonstrate the prospects of eDNA metabarcoding for ecological hypothesis generation and testing at landscape scale, and dramatic enhancement of freshwater conservation, management, monitoring, and research.
The treatment of osteoporotic thoraco‐lumbar burst fractures by unilateral percutaneous kyphoplasty: A prospective observation study
Authors: Yin Peng , Li Zhe , Zhu Shiqi , Zhang Yaoshen , Su Qingjun , Hai Yong
Published: November 2019

Objective

Osteoporotic thoraco‐lumbar burst fractures with serious pain are very common, and the optimal treatment of burst fractures without any neurological deficits has not yet been properly codified. The objective of this study was to evaluate prospectively the clinical effects and pain relief of unilateral percutaneous kyphoplasty (PKP) on osteoporotic thoraco‐lumbar burst fractures.

Methods

Forty‐six patients with osteoporotic thoraco‐lumbar burst fractures were treated by PKP in our hospital from January 2016 to January 2017. The height of posterior wall (HPW), the height of anterior wall (HAW) and kyphotic angle (KA) were measured via x‐ray radiographs before surgery, one day after surgery and at final follow‐up. Visual analogue scale (VAS) score and the oswestry disability index (ODI) score were evaluated preoperatively, postoperatively and at final follow‐up. All the patients with osteoporotic thoraco‐lumbar burst fractures were treated by unilateral PKP. Radiological evaluation (anteroposterior and lateral x‐ray radiographs and CT) was performed.

Results

All patients were followed‐up, and the mean follow‐up was 28.8 ± 7.0 months. The preoperative HAW was 20.1 ± 2.3 mm, and the HAW was significantly improved to 22.9 ± 2.4 mm after operation (p < .05), and at the final follow‐up, the HAW was 19.9 ± 2.1 mm, which was lower than the postoperative HAW. The HPW was also significantly corrected after surgery (p < .05). There were no significant differences between postoperative HPW and HPW at the final follow‐up (p > .05). The KA was significantly corrected after operation (p < .05), but relapse occurred at the final follow‐up, and at the final follow‐up, the average of KA was 19.4 ± 1.6 degree. The VAS and ODI were significantly improved at the final follow‐up compared to the preoperative period (p < .05). Cement leakage was found in eight patients, and adjacent vertebral fracture (VF) was found in two patients.

Conclusions

Our results showed that unilateral PKP acquired satisfactory treatment effect and pain relief in the management of osteoporotic thoraco‐lumbar burst fractures. Meticulous evaluation of preoperative images and careful repetitious injection of cement are important to prevent cement leakage.

Significance

Our present results showed that unilateral PKP was an effective method to obtain satisfactory pain relief in the management of osteoporotic thoraco‐lumbar burst fractures. It may a good indication for the patients with osteoporotic thoraco‐lumbar burst fractures, and the patients could not tolerate the serious acute pain by conservative treatment.
Controlled Electrodeposition of Au‐Copper Oxide Nanocomposite on a Renewable Carbon Ceramic Electrode for Sensitive Determination of NADH in Serum Samples
Authors: Mohammad‐Rezaei Rahim , Golmohammadpour Mahdi
Published: November 2019

In this study, a sensitive nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH) biosensor based on Au‐Copper oxide nanocomposite modified carbon ceramic electrode (Au−CuO/CCE) was introduced. The developed NADH biosensor was prepared by controlled electrodeposition of copper and Au nanoparticles on the surface of a renewable CCE and was turned to Au−CuO/CCE by cycling the potential in alkaline media. The prepared electrode was carefully characterized with scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, atomic force microscopy and cyclic voltammetry techniques. According to scan rate study, surface coverage (Γ) of the fabricated Au−CuO/CCE was calculated to be 1.54×10−8 mol cm−2 which was 3 time more than CuO/CCE. The fabricated electrode is well stable which could be reliably utilized for the determination of NADH with amperometry technique over the concentration range of 1–29 μM with sensitivity and detection limit (S/N=3) of 0.1025 μA μM−1 and 0.09 μM respectively. The prepared biosensor was used for NADH determination in serum samples with fast response time and satisfactory analytical results.
Bi‐Metal (Zn, Mn) Metal–Organic Framework–Derived ZnMnO3 Micro‐Sheets Wrapped Uniformly with Polypyrrole Conductive Network toward High‐Performance Li‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Sun Xuan , Zhang Yanru , Zhang Jinyang , Zaman Fakhr uz , Hou Linrui , Yuan Changzhou
Published: November 2019

Recently, porous mixed metal oxides have drawn interest as advanced anodes toward Li‐ion batteries (LIBs). However, there are existing challenges in achieving high‐rate capacities/cycle stabilities in practical applications. Herein, bottom‐up solvothermal fabrication of bi‐metal (Zn, Mn) metal–organic framework (MOF)‐derived ZnMnO3 (ZMO) micro‐sheets (MSs) is first devised, which are further wrapped uniformly with flexible polypyrrole (PPY) via efficient gaseous polymerization. In the hybrid (denoted as PPY@ZMO), the conductive PPY, as a continuous electronic network, is well dispersed throughout the porous ZMO MSs, which enhances the structural stability and charge transfer of the hybrid anode. Thanks to remarkable compositional/structural advantages and intrinsic pseudocapacitve contribution, the resultant PPY@ZMO anode is endowed with a high‐rate reversible capacity of 752.0 mAh g−1 at 2000 mA g−1, and desirable capacity retention with cycling (1037.6 mAh g−1 after 220 cycles at 500 mA g−1). In addition, the PPY@ZMO‐based full battery, along with remarkable cycling properties, exhibits an energy density of ≈206.2 Wh kg−1 in terms of the whole device, convincingly highlighting its promising application in advanced LIBs. Furthermore, the synthetic methodology here is highly generalized to other binary metal oxide/conductive polymer composites for energy‐related applications.
Quantitative computational fluid dynamic analyses of oil droplets deposition on vaneless diffusor walls of a centrifugal compressor
Authors: Sun Liwei , Ma Chaochen , Song Panpan , Zhang Hang
Published: November 2019

In the vehicle turbocharger operating process, the diffusor walls are susceptible to oil droplet deposition. This deposition may cause deterioration in the diffusor flow performance, consequently resulting in the deterioration of compressor performance. In this paper, a three‐dimensional steady computational fluid dynamic (CFD) numerical investigation was performed to study droplet deposition on the walls of a centrifugal compressor diffusor. Firstly, the theoretical basis of oil droplet distribution and formation on the diffusor were presented. On the basis of these, the distribution rules of the capture efficiency and particle concentration for the diffusor were investigated considering six different droplet diameters (0.25 μm, 0.5 μm, 0.75 μm, 1.00 μm, 1.25 μm, 1.5 μm). The results indicate that the particle mass concentration on the hub side increased gradually, and the concentration on the shroud side decreased inversely. Furthermore, the area of high particle mass concentration focused on the small radius area of the hub side or at the downstream of the channel in the direction of the streamline. And the particle mass concentration on the shroud is equally distributed. Finally, the combination of turbulent diffusion and inertial theory was proposed to analyze the mentioned phenomenon, and the droplet deposition mechanisms on the centrifugal compressor diffusor were summarized.
Efficient scheduling of video camera sensor networks for IoT systems in smart cities
Authors: Naeem Muhammad , Ejaz Waleed , Iqbal Muhammad , Iqbal Farkhund , Anpalagan Alagan , Rodrigues Joel J. P. C.
Published: November 2019

Video camera sensor networks (VCSN) has numerous applications in smart cities, including vehicular networks, environmental monitoring, and smart houses. Scheduling of video camera sensor networks (VCSN) can reduce the computational complexity, increase energy efficiency, and enhance throughput for the Internet of things (IoT) systems. In this paper, we apply the iterative low‐complexity probabilistic evolutionary method for scheduling video cameras to maximize throughput in VCSNs for IoT systems. Scheduling of video cameras in VCSNs to maximize throughput is a combinatorial optimization problem whose computational complexity increases exponentially with the increase in the number of video cameras. We propose an iterative probabilistic method named as cross‐entropy optimization (CEO), which is an evolutionary algorithm. The combinatorial optimization problems can be solved using the CEO which is a generalized Monte Carlo technique. The proposed method updates its selected population (video cameras) at each iteration based on the Kullback Leibler (KL) distance/divergence. The KL distance/divergence is minimized using the probability distribution obtained from the learned from the group of selected samples of better solutions found in the previous iterations. The effectiveness of the CEO is verified in terms of optimality and simplicity through simulations. In addition, the results of the CEO are better than the suboptimal algorithms (ie, best norm‐based algorithm, genetic algorithm, and capacity upper‐bound–based greedy algorithm) and maximum of 2%‐3% deviation from the exhaustive search (optimal) with less complexity. The trade‐off between CEO and optimal is the computational complexity.
Financial distress, free cash flow, and interfirm payment network: Evidence from an agent‐based model
Authors: Stellian Rémi , Danna‐Buitrago Jenny P.
Published: November 2019

This paper provides theoretical evidence about financial distress in the business sector in relation to firms' targeted free cash flow (FCF). An agent‐based model of a pure market economy is designed so that a population of firms interact with one another and with a bank. The model determines the interfirm payment network arising from supplier–customer relationships on the basis of a random graph with uniform attachment mechanisms. The interfirm payment network shapes both the liquidity available to each firm and the debts firms incur to finance these payments. Eventually, firms might not have sufficient liquidity to meet their debt requirements, hence their financial distress. Firms that target higher FCFs must reduce their payments to suppliers for the same amount of payments they expect to receive from customers. This influences the interfirm payment network and, therefore, firms' financial distress. On this basis, computational experiments introduce variations in FCF targets. The lowest FCF targets lead to the lowest levels of financial distress in the business sector. Our simplified case of interactions opens the way for further research that employs more complex agent‐based models.
Optimal investment and endogenous payout strategy with time inconsistency
Authors: Yang Yehong , Cao Guohua
Published: November 2019

This study extends the classical model to focus on a firm's optimal investment and endogenous payout strategies when a manager has time‐inconsistent preferences, which we describe by a quasi‐hyperbolic discount function. We attempt to reveal the impacts of time‐inconsistency on liquidation, external financing, credit lines, and risk management. The extended model predicts that the time‐inconsistent manager tends to (a) pay out cash to shareholders earlier by lowering the dividend payment, which causes the firm to hold less cash reserves and raise less equity; (b) invest less in the high cash and engage in much less costly asset sales in the low cash; and (c) choose not to hedge earlier than a time‐consistent counterpart. In addition, our model also shows that the manager's time‐inconsistent preferences decrease firm value and the marginal value of cash. These results highlight that corporate decisions, including payouts, cash holdings, investment, external financing, and even risk management strategies, are highly dependent on the manager's time‐inconsistent preferences.
Minocycline hydrochloride‐loaded graphene oxide films on implant abutments for peri‐implantitis treatment in beagle dogs
Authors: Qian Wenhao , Qiu Jiajun , Liu Xuanyong
Published: November 2019

Background

Dental implant failures still occur because of peri‐implant diseases such as peri‐implantitis. The objective of this study was to treat peri‐implantitis in beagle dogs by fabricating minocycline hydrochloride (MH)‐loaded graphene oxide (GO) films on implant abutment surfaces.

Methods

Beagle dogs with silk ligature were used to establish the peri‐implantitis model. Modified sulcus bleeding index, peri‐implant probing pocket depth, radiographic evaluation, micro‐CT tomography analysis, and histological evaluation were determined to evaluate the therapeutic effect of MH‐loaded GO films on abutment surfaces for peri‐implantitis.

Results

Radiographic and micro‐CT analysis showed that lots of marginal bone loss could be found on Ti and MH/Ti groups, especially for Ti group. Little bone less could be seen on GO/Ti group while bone less on MH/GO/Ti group was negligible. Results of the histological analysis presented that lots of neutrophils could be found on Ti and MH/Ti groups. However, almost none of the neutrophils could be observed on GO/Ti and MH/GO/Ti while lots of osteocytes could be found.

Conclusion

MH‐loaded GO films on implant abutment surfaces could prevent the further development of peri‐implantitis and exhibit good therapeutic effect for peri‐implantitis in beagle dogs.
Origin and age of The Hillocks and implications for post‐glacial landscape development in the upper Lake Wakatipu catchment, New Zealand
Authors: McColl Samuel T. , Cook Simon J. , Stahl Timothy , Davies Timothy R. H.
Published: November 2019

Ambiguous landscape histories can arise from equivocal or incomplete geomorphological, sedimentological or geochronological evidence. In this study, we apply quantitative analyses to robustly assess the origin and age of a field of rounded mounds, known as ‘The Hillocks’. Using clast analysis, the sediment is shown to be consistent with a landslide origin but inconsistent with other glacial sediments in the region. Cosmogenic 10Be exposure age dating suggests The Hillocks formed ~8 ka. Ground‐penetrating radar reveals that the deposit rests upon deltaic foreset beds; combined with topographical data, we calculate a deposit volume of ~15–27 M m3, consistent with the estimated volume of the proposed source area. Overall, our data support a rock avalanche origin, indicating that by 8 ka the valley was ice‐free at The Hillocks’ location, and the level of Lake Wakatipu was lower than 340 m asl by this time. The Dart River delta shoreline was situated somewhere between The Hillocks and the present day shoreline at that time, and has prograded at a maximum average rate of 1 m a−1 since ~8 ka. These findings are significant given the lack of landforms by which to constrain glacial or post‐glacial landscape histories in this region of New Zealand. Copyright © 2019 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Clinicopathological features and survival outcomes of rare histologic variants of gallbladder cancer
Authors: Akce Mehmet , Zakka Katerina , Penley McKenna , Jiang Renjian , Alese Olatunji B. , Shaib Walid L. , Wu Christina , Behera Madhusmita , El‐Rayes Bassel F.
Published: November 2019

Background

Adenocarcinoma (AC) is the most common histological type in gallbladder carcinoma (GBC). Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), adenosquamous carcinoma (ASC), and papillary carcinoma (PC) are rare histologic variants of GBC.

Methods

Patients with AC, SCC, ASC, and PC of the gallbladder between 2004 and 2013 were identified from the National Cancer Database. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed, and Kaplan‐Meier curves were used to compare overall survival (OS) based on histological subtype.

Results

A total of 5956 patients ≥18 years of age were included in the final analysis. Most patients (n = 5398; 90.6%) had AC compared with variant histologies. PC (n = 227; 3.8%) was the most common variant, followed by ASC (n = 216; 3.6%) and SCC (n = 115; 1.9%); 70.3% were female and 78.9% Caucasian. The median age was 70 (range, 25‐90) years. Surgical resection was performed in 77.7% of AC, 53.0% of SCC, 88.9% of ASC, and 96.9% of PC (P < .001). Systemic therapy after surgery was administered in 25.1% of AC, 18.3% of SCC, 35.7% of ASC, and 19.4% of PC (P = .001). In multivariate analysis, multiagent chemotherapy was associated with improved OS in all histologies except for SCC and PC (p < .001), and adjuvant systemic therapy was associated with improved OS in ASC and AC (P < .001).

Conclusion

Survival differs between the gallbladder variants. Except for SCC, GBC variants underwent surgical resection more often than AC. Adjuvant systemic therapy was associated with improved OS in ASC and AC.
Dynamic changes of gut and lung microorganisms during chronic obstructive pulmonary disease exacerbations
Authors: Sun Zhe , Zhu Qiu‐Li , Shen Yun , Yan Tao , Zhou Xin
Published: November 2019

Increasing evidence has indicated the intimate relationship between the gastrointestinal tract and respiratory tract. The microbial ecosystem has been confirmed to share key conceptual features with gut‐lung microbiome disorder and dysregulation during chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) exacerbations. However, the dynamic changes of the gut‐lung microbiome during COPD exacerbations and its potential role in disease etiology remain poorly understood. The present study investigated the dynamic changes of gut and lung microorganisms during acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD). A longitudinal 16S ribosomal DNA survey of the gut and lung microbiome was completed on 90 feces and sputum samples collected from 15 subjects with AECOPD at three visits, which were defined as exacerbation, seven‐day stable state. The present analysis revealed a dynamic gut‐lung microbiota, where changes appeared to be associated with exacerbation events indicative of specific exacerbation phenotypes. Antibiotic and steroid treatments appeared to have differential effects on the gut‐lung microbiome, and the microbiome was associated with disease progression, but not with severity. The abundance and diversity of the microbiome was strongly influenced by the disease progression and therapy. Using culture‐independent methods to impact the gut and lung microbiota on AECOPD may be the key to understanding the interactions between the gut and lung, highlighting its potential as a biomarker, and possibly a target for future respiratory therapeutics.
Targeting the gut microbiota for the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome
Authors: Herndon Charles C. , Wang Yen‐Po , Lu Ching‐Liang
Published: November 2019

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a chronic gastrointestinal disorder that affects an estimated 11% of people across the world. IBS patients are one of the largest subgroups seen in gastroenterology clinics, exhibit a lesser quality of life, and take greater use of the healthcare system. The exact etiology of IBS remains uncertain. Alterations in the gut microbiome may characterize apotential mechanism in the pathogenesis of IBS. This hypothesis is paralleled by rodent models in which manipulation of the gut microbiota leads to disturbed physiological functions along the brain‐gut axis. Recent research in IBS treatments has redirected its focus towards gu microbiome based therapeutics. In this review, we discuss potential roles of enteric bacteria in the pathogenesis of IBS and its comorbidities. We then explore the manipulation of the enteric microbiota by prebiotics, probiotics, antibiotics, dietary changes, and fecal microbiota transfer. We also discuss the positive and negative effects of these therapeutics on IBS symptoms.
Vocal Fold Reconstruction Using an Autologous Pedicled Fat Flap in a Rabbit Model
Authors: Lee Seungwon , Seon Sangwoo , Park Kinam , Ryu Junsun
Published: November 2019

Objectives/Hypothesis

We evaluated the efficacy of a vocal fold reconstruction technique using a vascularized autologous pedicled fat (PEFA) flap in a rabbit model of vocal fold paralysis.

Study Design

Animal model.

Methods

The study included 30 male New Zealand White rabbits; 20 received vocal fold reconstructions (PEFA group) and 10 served as normal controls (control group). The right recurrent laryngeal nerve was resected, and simultaneous PEFA flap reconstruction was performed. The PEFA flap, including a pre‐epiglottic fat and thyroid perichondrium, was elevated and implanted through a window at the inferior border of the thyroid cartilage. Histological and high‐speed video analyses of vocal fold vibration were performed 1 month after PEFA reconstruction. The maximum amplitude of vocal fold vibration and the dynamic glottal gap were used to assess vocal fold vibration.

Results

The histological findings showed that the lamina propria ratio (lamina propria pixels/total vocal fold pixels) and the total number of vocal fold pixels were similar between the PEFA and control groups. Vocal fold vibration analyses indicated that the maximum amplitude differences in the vibration were slightly lower in the PEFA group. However, the dynamic glottal gap of the vocal fold was not significantly different between the PEFA group and the control group.

Conclusions

The PEFA flap vocal fold reconstruction technique maintained the vocal fold area without a significant reduction in vocal fold vibration in a rabbit model.

Level of Evidence

NA

Laryngoscope, 130:1770–1774, 2020
The Generalizability of the Clinical Assessment Score‐15 for Pediatric Sleep‐Disordered Breathing
Authors: Goldstein Nira A. , Friedman Norman R. , Nardone Heather C. , Aljasser Abdullah , Tobey Allison B.J. , Don Debra , Baroody Fuad M. , Lam Derek J. , Goudy Steven , Ishman Stacey L. , Arganbright Jill M. , Baldassari Cristina , Schreinemakers J.B.S. , Wine Todd M. , Ruszkay Nicole J. , Alammar Ahmed , Shaffer Amber D. , Koempel Jeffrey A. , Weedon Jeremy
Published: November 2019

Objective

The Clinical Assessment Score‐15 (CAS‐15) has been validated as an office‐based assessment for pediatric sleep‐disordered breathing in otherwise healthy children. Our objective was to determine the generalizability of the CAS‐15 in a multi‐institutional fashion.

Methods

Five hundred and thirty children from 13 sites with suspected sleep‐disordered breathing were recruited, and the investigators completed the CAS‐15. Based on decisions made in the course of clinical care, investigators recommended overnight polysomnography, observation, medical therapy, and/or surgery. Two hundred and forty‐seven subjects had a follow‐up CAS‐15.

Results

Mean age was 5.1 (2.6) years; 54.2% were male; 39.1% were white; and 37.0% were African American. Initial mean (standard deviation [SD]) CAS‐15 was 37.3 (12.7), n = 508. Spearman correlation between the initial CAS‐15 and the initial apnea‐hypopnea index (AHI) was 0.41 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.29, 0.51), n = 212, P < .001. A receiver‐operating characteristic curve predicting positive polysomnography (AHI > 2) had an area under the curve of 0.71 (95% CI, 0.63, 0.80). A score ≥ 32 had a sensitivity of 69.0% (95% CI, 61.7, 75.5), a specificity of 63.4% (95% CI, 47.9, 76.6), a positive predictive value of 88.7% (95% CI, 82.1, 93.1), and a negative predictive value of 32.9% (95% CI, 23.5, 44.0) in predicting positive polysomnography. Among children who underwent surgery, the mean change (SD) score was 30.5 (12.6), n = 201, t = 36.85, P < .001, effect size = 3.1.

Conclusion

This study establishes the generalizability of the CAS‐15 as a useful office tool for the evaluation of pediatric sleep‐disordered breathing.

Level of Evidence

2B Laryngoscope, 130:2256–2262, 2020
Paraganglioma of the recurrent laryngeal nerve
Authors: London Nyall R. , Hopkins Mark , Best Simon R. , Rooper Lisa M. , Fakhry Carole
Published: November 2019

Paragangliomas of the head and neck are rare, and most frequently benign, slow growing, and nonsecretory. The most frequent locations these tumors arise in the head and neck include the carotid body, jugular bulb, vagus nerve, tympanic branch of the glossopharyngeal nerve, and sympathetic chain. Here we present, to our knowledge, the second reported case of paraganglioma of the recurrent laryngeal nerve. This case is unique given the patient presentation due to ipsilateral vocal fold paralysis, which has not previously been reported, lack of previous surgery, and demonstration of loss of succinate dehydrogenase iron‐sulfur subunit B expression. Laryngoscope, 2019
Interlaboratory Assessment of Dried Blood Spot Fatty Acid Compositions
Authors: Metherel Adam H. , Harris William S. , Ge Liu , Gibson Robert A. , Chouinard‐Watkins Raphaël , Bazinet Richard P. , Liu Lei , Brenna J. Thomas , Aristizabal‐Henao Juan J. , Stark Ken D. , Block Robert C.
Published: November 2019

Dried blood spots for fatty acid profiling are increasing in popularity; however, variability in results between laboratories has not been characterized. Whole blood from two subjects (low and high n‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acid [PUFA] status) was collected, 25 μL applied to butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT)‐treated chromatography strips, dried in air, and shipped to five laboratories. Results were reported as “routine” (typical fatty acids for each laboratory) or “standardized” (a set of 19 fatty acids), and outliers and variability (%CV) were determined. Five and eight outliers of a possible 91 measures each were identified by routine and standardized reporting, respectively, including eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA, 20:5n‐3) in the low n‐3 PUFA sample and arachidonic acid in the high n‐3 PUFA sample. By standardized reporting, no outliers were identified for EPA or docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, 22:6n‐3), and %CV decreased from 8.6% to 6.0% and 9.1% to 6.6% for EPA and 10.5% to 7.2% and 10.5% to 6.6% for DHA in the low and high n‐3 PUFA sample, respectively. In conclusion, fatty acid profiles yielded few outliers, and standardization of reporting reduced the variability between laboratories.
Identification of intrinsic suitable sites in Gaza Strip for the application of artificial groundwater recharge using a geographic information system multicriteria decision analysis
Authors: Ajjur Salah B. , Mogheir Yunes K.
Published: November 2019

Gaza coastal aquifer is perceived as the only natural source of water in Gaza Strip (GS), providing water for about 1.9 million inhabitants living in an area of 365 km2. GS annual mean precipitation is about 325 mm, but this precipitation is not exploited properly to feed the aquifer. This study aims to identify the intrinsic suitable sites in GS for the implementation of artificial groundwater recharge. The most suitable sites were identified using a geographic information system multicriteria decision analysis based on four criteria: hydrogeological aptitude, soil, slope, and land use. Three steps were carried out to find these sites: screening for suitable areas, suitability mapping, and sensitivity analysis. The suitability map was divided into two zones after the screening: available and unavailable. Available areas (70% of total GS area) were further divided into four classes according to the weighted linear combination ranking. The findings show that 60% of GS areas are suitable for artificial recharge application. After that, seven current storm water‐collection basins were assigned. Five of them were found to be corresponded with sites suitability analysis. This map is a powerful tool for implementation of recharge techniques in GS.
On stability analysis of semi‐linear fractional differential systems
Authors: Matar Mohammed M. , Abu Skhail Esmail S.
Published: November 2019

In this article, new trends of analysis on existence, uniqueness, and stability of solution for semi‐linear fractional systems are considered. The results are based on a generalization of Bihari's inequality. Some examples are given to illustrate the results.
Alq3 saturable absorber for generating Q‐switched pulses in erbium‐doped fiber laser
Authors: Samsamnun Farina S. M. , Zulkipli Nur F. , Khudus Muhammad I. M. A. , Shuhaimi Ahmad , Majid Wan H. A. , Harun Sulaiman W.
Published: November 2019

Q‐switch pulses were successfully produced utilizing an organic saturable absorber (SA) to modulate loss inside an erbium‐doped fiber laser (EDFL) cavity. The organic material was tris‐(8‐hydroxyquinoline) aluminum (Alq3) and it was mixed with polyvinyl alcohol to form a film. The Q‐switched EDFL operated at 1564.1 nm and the generated pulses were stable with tunable repetition rates. The repetition rates increased from 45.87 to 68.03 kHz as the pump power was elevated from 42.8 to 84.0 mW. Within this power range, the maximum pulse energy and the shortest pulse width were obtained at 139 nJ and 6.03 μs, respectively. The fundamental frequency of the electrical spectrum has a signal‐to‐noise ratio of 64 dB and thus verifies the stability of the laser. The results indicate that the proposed Alq3 material is feasible for use as SA in realizing a reliably stable and flexible Q‐switch laser for 1.5 μm operation.
A novel nonsmooth dynamics method for multibody systems with friction and impact based on the symplectic discrete format
Authors: Peng Haijun , Song Ningning , Kan Ziyun
Published: November 2019

As multibody systems often involve unilateral constraints, nonsmooth phenomena, such as impacts and friction, are common in engineering. Therefore, a valid nonsmooth dynamics method is highly important for multibody systems. An accuracy representation of multibody systems is an important performance indicator of numerical algorithms, and the energy balance can be used efficiently evaluate the performance of nonsmooth dynamics methods. In this article, differential algebraic equations (DAEs) of a multibody system are constructed using the D'Alembert's principle, and a novel nonsmooth dynamics method based on symplectic discrete format is proposed. The symplectic discrete format can maintain the energy conservation of a conservative system; this property is expected to extend to nonconservative systems with nonsmooth phenomena in this article. To evaluate the properties of the proposed method, several numerical examples are considered, and the results of the proposed method are compared with those of Moreau's midpoint rule. The results demonstrate that the solutions obtained using the proposed method, which is based on the symplectic discrete format, can realize a higher solution accuracy and lower numerical energy dissipation, even under a large time step.
Development and validation of Nurse Managers’ Empowering Behavioral Scale for staff nurses
Authors: Sasaki Miki , Ogata Yasuko , Morioka Noriko , Yumoto Yoshie , Yonekura Yuki
Published: November 2019

Aim

In this study, we developed and verified the Nurse Managers’ Empowering Behavioral Scale for Staff Nurses (NMEB‐SN).

Design

A cross‐sectional survey.

Methods

The NMEB‐SN was developed based on the staff nurses’ perspectives. Nurses working in 10 hospitals in Japan were surveyed using a questionnaire to test the scale's validity using construct and criterion‐related validity and reliability using internal consistency and test–retest method. There were 1,146 eligible participants included in the process.

Results

The scale items resulted in five subscales comprising of 48 items altogether. The goodness‐of‐fit indices for confirmatory factor analysis were CFI = 0.903 and RMSEA = 0.076. The correlation with external criteria for criterion‐related validity was near the expected standard. Further, Cronbach's α coefficient was 0.95–0.97 for each subscale and 0.99 for the overall scale. The reliability and validity of the developed NMEB‐SN were verified for staff nurses in Japan.
Packaging, business, and society
Authors: Gurtu Amulya , Arendt John D.
Published: November 2019

The objective of this paper is to present the impact of packaging material on sustainability. The article analyzes the size of the problem that arises from the use of packaging and the effect of various types of packaging material on waste management. The data on solid waste from the United States and the European Union reinforce that the problem is not only huge but also requires immediate attention. The research found that paying attention to packaging has the potential to improve economic, environmental, and social sustainability. Reducing packaging in supply chains improves profitability for organizations, reduces environmental impact, and helps societies in lowering the cost of disposal. The cost of packaging materials and the costs of disposal and landfill, are borne by the end consumers. Suggested approaches to minimizing the generation of packaging waste include concerted efforts for reducing packaging throughout supply chains where elimination of packaging is not feasible, the formation of a global policy on the use and disposal of packaging materials, and educating consumers.
Obesity and the Built Environment: A Reappraisal
Authors: Drewnowski Adam , Buszkiewicz James , Aggarwal Anju , Rose Chelsea , Gupta Shilpi , Bradshaw Annie
Published: November 2019

The built environment (BE) has been viewed as an important determinant of health. Numerous studies have linked BE exposure, captured using a variety of methods, to diet quality and to area prevalence of obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. First‐generation studies defined the neighborhood BE as the area around the home. Second‐generation studies turned from home‐centric to person‐centric BE measures, capturing an individual’s movements in space and time. Those studies made effective uses of global positioning system tracking devices and mobile phones, sometimes coupled with accelerometers and remote sensors. Activity space metrics explored travel paths, modes, and destinations to assess BE exposure that was both person and context specific. However, as measures of the contextual exposome have become ever more fine‐grained and increasingly complex, connections to long‐term chronic diseases with complex etiologies, such as obesity, are in danger of being lost. Furthermore, few studies on obesity and the BE have included intermediate energy balance behaviors, such as diet and physical activity, or explored the potential roles of social interactions or psychosocial pathways. Emerging survey‐based applications that identify habitual destinations and associated travel patterns may become the third generation of tools to capture health‐relevant BE exposures in the long term.
Preparation of polyimide/BaTiO3‐nanocrystal hybrid thin films and their dielectric property
Authors: Cheng Fengmei , Li Hao , Li Haidong
Published: November 2019

High dielectric constant is highly desirable in capacitors and memory devices. In this work, oleic acid (OA)‐capped BaTiO3 nanocrystals were synthesized by a two‐phase approach. Polyimide (PI)/BaTiO3‐nanocrystal composite thin films with high dielectric constant have been successfully fabricated. The morphologies and dielectric properties of the hybrid films were exploited. The results showed that BaTiO3 nanocrystals can be uniformly dispersed in the PI thin films owing to the surface modification of OA‐capped BaTiO3 nanocrystals. It was found that the dielectric constant of composite film varies with the volume fraction of BaTiO3 nanocrystals and sintering temperatures and reaches a maximum value of 44.1, which is around 13 times higher than that of pristine PI thin film (3.2). These results demonstrated that PI/BaTiO3‐nanocrystal composite films have considerable application potential in microelectronic fields.
Incident investigation work‐aid tool for process safety management compliance in process industries
Authors: Abdul Majid Noor Diana , M. Shariff Azmi
Published: November 2019

Incident investigations conducted in industries vary based on company policies and authorities' requirements. One of the related regulations as required by authorities is based on incident investigation elements of the process safety management (PSM) standard, 29 CFR 1910.119(m). This standard outlines the requirements for identification of catastrophic incident, incident investigation team setup, report writings, follow‐up actions on the established recommendations, communication of incident investigation findings with relevant personnel, and report record keeping. Many companies implement that the incident investigations based on 29 CFR 1910.119(m) likely lead to noncompliance due to wrong interpretations of the requirements. This article presents a structured and easy technique to conduct and implement incident investigations that comply with Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) PSM 29 CFR 1910.119(m). A framework and a work‐aid tool for incident investigation were developed and validated with a previous incident investigation of a catastrophic accident as a case study. The developed work‐aid tool could benefit the process industries to track and manage incident investigation activities systematically. It also helps to prompt users on the necessary actions to close the identified gaps that caused the accident. This technique allows users to manage incident investigation better, to avoid recurrence of the same accident in future, and at the same time to reduce adverse impacts on people, environment, and assets.
Anisotropic Diffusion of Charges on Au Nanoclusters Embedded in Al2O3 Dielectrics
Authors: Park Jinhong , Choi Jinhyeok , Choi Moonkang , Ryu Hyunyeol , Ryu Hanyoul , Lee Hyungwoo , Lee Minbaek
Published: November 2019

Recent transistors are one of state‐of‐the‐art products of semiconductor industry. As it has been required to be minimized to the nanoscale regime, the classical model from the microelectronics is often challenged by its discrepancy. Therefore, understanding the behavior of electrons in such regime is essential for transistor applications in nanoscale. Herein, the charge trapping and anisotropic diffusion behaviors of electrons in multistacked nanostructures composed of a blocking oxide, a charge storage layer of Au nanoclusters (NCs), a tunneling oxide, and silicon substrate are reported. Electrons are injected from the substrate to Au NCs via quantum tunneling effect. The charge retention and diffusion characteristics of the NCs are investigated by measuring surface potential. To explore the spatial dependence, a line‐ and dot‐shaped injection of charges is examined. Both of the accumulated electrons decay following an exponential function of time. However, the injected electrons with a line‐shape in Au NCs are found to have a larger time constant than those with a dot‐shape. This result implies that the initial spatial distribution of electrons plays a role in determining the equilibrium distribution of the charges in the nanostructure.
Molecular networking‐based dereplication of strictosidine‐derived monoterpene indole alkaloids from the curare ingredient Strychnos peckii
Authors: Santos Carla L.G. , Angolini Célio F.F. , Neves Kidney O.G. , Costa Emmanoel V. , de Souza Afonso D.L. , Pinheiro Maria Lúcia B. , Koolen Hector H.F. , da Silva Felipe M.A.
Published: November 2019

Rationale

Monoterpene indole alkaloids (MIAs) are a large group of biologically active compounds produced by hundreds of plant species in numerous plant families, such as Apocynaceae, Loganiaceae and Rubiaceae. Although this diversity is biosynthetically intermediated by strictosidine, there are no works focused on the fragmentation patterns under collision‐induced dissociation of strictosidine‐derived alkaloids.

Methods

Initially, the alkaloid fingerprint of Strychnos peckii was established using leaf spray with tandem mass spectrometry (LS‐MS/MS). Then, high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC/MS/MS) analyses were carried out to focus on the patterns of neutral losses in product ion scan experiments with the leaf aqueous extract. Finally, the product ion spectra from a set of presumable strictosidine‐type derivatives were analyzed and organized via molecular networking (MN), and dereplicated by manual interpretation of MS/MS spectra.

Results

LS‐MS/MS allowed the tentative identification of strictosidine‐derived alkaloids in the leaves of S. peckii, showing useful neutral losses for the dereplication of strictosidine analogues by HPLC/MS/MS experiments. The use of MN combined with manual interpretation of the fragmentation patterns highlighted characteristic fragmentation pathways, and allowed the tentative identification of strictosidine, desoxycordifoline, strictosidinic acid, 10‐hydroxystrictosidine, 5‐carboxystrictosidine, lyaloside, 3,4‐dehydrostrictosidine and strictosidine lactam.

Conclusions

The use of MN combined with the analysis of the fragmentation patterns proved to be a useful strategy for the dereplication of strictosidine‐derived MIAs from S. peckii, highlighting known and unprecedented structures, as well as useful diagnostic product ions. Therefore, this workflow is an effective approach for the characterization of strictosidine‐type alkaloids in future dereplication works.
Recent advances in MEIS
Authors: Moon DaeWon
Published: November 2019

In this perspective on recent advances in medium‐energy ion scattering (MEIS), I focus on the current issues to make MEIS a practically powerful and useful analysis technique for nanostructured materials and devices after a brief summary of MEIS, thereby highlighting the need for an extensive review on the development of MEIS methodology and its application to a wide range of contexts.