bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Determining effectiveness of EBM education in otolaryngology residents using modified fresno test
Authors: Bastaninejad Shahin , Soltani Akbar , Dabiran Soheila , Amali Amin , Adil Suzan , Borghei Pedram , Mazarei Alireza
Published: January 2019

Objective

To determine the effectiveness of education in evidence‐based medicine (EBM) on the knowledge, competency, and skills of otolaryngology residents of Tehran University of Medical Sciences (TUMS) at Amir‐Alam and Imam Khomeini Hospitals.

Methods

In a quasi‐experimental (before‐and‐after) study, all ear, nose, and throat residents of TUMS (n = 41) entered the study. The residents underwent the modified Fresno test. Then, two EBM workshops with a similar content were held on 2 separate days in each hospital, with each session lasting 6 hours. The learned material was practiced in weekly journal clubs. Six months after the workshop, the modified Fresno test was applied again, and the results were analyzed.

Results

A significant improvement in the modified Fresno test score was observed. The mean score of the modified Fresno test was 57.43 ± 22.07 before the workshop and 79.26 ± 22.48 after the workshop (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

The results of the study show that EBM education and practice of the learned materials in journal clubs can improve the knowledge and skills of residents.

Further research with larger samples is needed to improve the precision of our findings and to increase confidence in the results.

Level of Evidence

2

Laryngoscope, 129:2291–2294, 2019
Tracheo‐innominate fistula in children: A systematic review of literature
Authors: Lee Daniel J. , Yang Weining , Propst Evan J. , Rosenblatt Steven D. , Hseu Anne , Wolter Nikolaus E.
Published: January 2019

Objective

Tracheo‐innominate fistula (TIF) is a rare but fatal complication of tracheotomy. To date, there is a paucity of literature regarding pediatric TIFs. The objectives of this study were to conduct a systematic review of literature on pediatric TIF following tracheotomy and describe three demonstrative cases from our institutional experience.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review using MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Web of Science, and CINAHL. All studies with pediatric patients (under 18 years of age) who developed TIF following tracheotomy were included.

Results

Fifty‐four publications met inclusion criteria, reporting on 77 cases. The most common indication for tracheotomy was prolonged intubation and the need for ventilatory support (38.6%), with neurological comorbidities being the most common indication (72.7%). The mean time to TIF was 395.7 days (95% confidence interval, 225.9–565.5). Fifty‐four patients (70.1%) presented with massive hemorrhage, whereas 18 patients (23.3%) presented with a sentinel bleeding event. The most common diagnostic interventions were computed tomography scan with or without contrast and bronchoscopy (55.8%). A substantial number of patients did not have any investigations (41.6%). Surgical management occurred in 70.1% of patients. Mortality was 38.6% in reported cases with variable follow‐up periods.

Conclusion

TIF may occur in long‐term tracheostomy‐dependent children, contrary to the conventionally described 3‐week postoperative period. The mortality may not be as high as previously reported with timely intervention. Our results are limited by inherent risks of bias. Further research including well‐designed cohort studies are needed to guide an evidence‐based approach to TIF.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 130:217–224, 2020
Evolution of the butterfly graft technique: 15‐year review of 500 cases with expanding indications
Authors: Howard Brittany E. , Madison Clark J.
Published: January 2019

Objectives/Hypothesis

To describe the evolution of the butterfly graft technique for the treatment of nasal valve compromise, with specific attention to technical developments allowing for expanded indications. To review the impact on patient‐reported outcomes of nasal airway function and nasal aesthetics.

Study Design

Retrospective chart review.

Methods

A review of a single surgeon's patients at a private practice and tertiary care center undergoing surgical correction for nasal valve compromise using the butterfly graft technique between July 2002 and April 2017. Data collected included etiology of nasal valve compromise, additional procedures performed, complications, and functional and aesthetic patient‐reported outcomes.

Results

Over the study period, 512 patients underwent surgery to correct nasal valve compromise utilizing the butterfly graft technique. The overall patient‐reported relief of nasal obstructive symptoms was complete in 87%, improved but not completely relieved in 10%, and not improved in 4%. No patients reported a worsening in their nasal obstructive symptoms. The overall patient‐reported change in nasal appearance was improved 53%, the same 32%, worse in 15%. The patients in the latter half of the study tended to report better aesthetic results.

Conclusions

The results of this study suggest that the surgical technique for the butterfly graft evolved over time and allowed for improved aesthetic outcomes, without reduction in the efficacy in correction of nasal valve compromise. The evolution in technique allowed for expansion of the indications for the butterfly graft while maintaining the favorable patient‐reported aesthetic and functional results.

Level of Evidence

4Laryngoscope, 129:S1‐S10, 2019
Nonsquamous cell laryngeal cancers: Incidence, demographics, care patterns, and effect of surgery
Authors: Torabi Sina J. , Cheraghlou Shayan , Kasle David A. , Savoca Emily L. , Judson Benjamin L.
Published: January 2019

Objectives

To analyze the incidence and clinical profile of nonsquamous cell (non‐SCC) laryngeal carcinomas and to analyze the effect of surgery on survival.

Study Design

A retrospective analysis of the National Cancer Database (2004–2014).

Methods

Adult patients with non‐SCC laryngeal cancers were divided into six major histological subtypes. A descriptive clinical profile was obtained for non‐SCC patients, and multivariate regressions were performed to analyze the effect of surgery on survival within the non‐SCC cohort.

Results

We identified 878 cases of non‐SCC laryngeal cancers, representing 1.02% of all malignant laryngeal cancers. Neuroendocrine tumors and bone/cartilage sarcomas made up the largest groups (37.02% and 32.35%, respectively). Metastasis (M) was higher in neuroendocrine tumors, representing 19.1% of those with known clinical M stages. Of those treated, the majority of patients with bone/cartilage sarcomas (80.9%) and minor salivary gland tumors (82.6%) received surgery as part of their treatment. Survival varied significantly based upon histology, with bone/cartilage sarcomas having the highest 5‐year survival at 90.4%, and neuroendocrine tumors exhibiting the poorest 5‐year survival at 25.7%. Multivariate analyses found surgery to be significantly associated with improved survival (hazard ratio: 0.679; 95% confidence interval: 0.472–0.976; P = 0.036). The specific surgical method (i.e., local excision vs. partial vs. total laryngectomy) did not have any effect on survival.

Conclusion

Approximately 1% of all malignant laryngeal cancers are non‐SCC in origin. At presentation, neuroendocrine tumors have the highest rate of distant metastasis and have the worst prognosis of the non‐SCC cancers. Most non‐SCC patients received surgery as part of their treatment regimen.

Level of Evidence

NA. Laryngoscope, 129:2496–2505, 2019
Carrier‐Envelope‐Offset Frequency Stable 100 W‐Level Femtosecond Thin‐Disk Oscillator
Authors: Gröbmeyer Sebastian , Brons Jonathan , Seidel Marcus , Pronin Oleg
Published: January 2019

In this paper, the carrier‐envelope‐offset (CEO) frequency stabilization of a Kerr‐lens mode‐locked femtosecond oscillator with average power 105 W is presented. Intra‐cavity Kerr lensing is realized in a quartz crystal that simultaneously serves as an acousto‐optic loss modulator. This novel method results in a CEO frequency stable laser with high average power and a residual in‐loop phase noise below 90 mrad. Furthermore, an all‐solid‐state bulk broadening stage is presented. The compressed, CEO frequency‐stabilized output has a peak power exceeding 67 MW at a pulse duration of 40 fs and a repetition rate of 15.6 MHz. The intra‐cavity peak power of the CEO frequency‐stabilized oscillator is around 200 MW. These results pave the way toward compact, transportable all‐solid‐state drivers with high repetition rates for deep UV and XUV frequency combs and other nonlinear processes.
Recent Trends on Transparent Colorless Polyimides with Balanced Thermal and Optical Properties: Design and Synthesis
Authors: Tapaswi Pradip Kumar , Ha Chang‐Sik
Published: January 2019

Recently, colorless and transparent plastic substrates with high glass transition temperature and suitable thermo‐mechanical properties are in high demand in optoelectronic device industries, due to their various optical applications. Colorless polyimides (CPIs) exhibit both high thermo‐mechanical stability as well as high transparency that are suitable for optoelectronic applications. The most recent (2010–2018) developments on CPIs, in terms of design and synthesis of new monomers and their effects on the thermo‐optical properties of the obtained CPIs, are reviewed in this article.
No difference in 4‐nitroquinoline induced tumorigenesis between germ‐free and colonized mice
Authors: Zhou Yan‐Xia , Fuentes‐Creollo Gabriela , Ponce Frank , Langley Sasha A. , Jen Kuang‐Yu , Celniker Susan E. , Mao Jian‐Hua , Snijders Antoine M.
Published: January 2019

Variations in oral bacterial communities have been linked to oral cancer suggesting that the oral microbiome is an etiological factor that can influence oral cancer development. The 4‐nitroquinoline 1‐oxide (4‐NQO)‐induced murine oral and esophageal cancer model is frequently used to assess the effects of preventive and/or therapeutic agents. We used this model to assess the impact of the microbiome on tumorigenesis using axenic (germ‐free) and conventionally housed mice. Increased toxicity was observed in germ‐free mice, however, no difference in tumor incidence, multiplicity, and size was observed. Transcriptional profiling of liver tissue from germ‐free and conventionally housed mice identified 254 differentially expressed genes including ten cytochrome p450 enzymes, the largest family of phase‐1 drug metabolizing enzymes in the liver. Gene ontology revealed that differentially expressed genes were enriched for liver steatosis, inflammation, and oxidative stress in livers of germ‐free mice. Our observations emphasize the importance of the microbiome in mediating chemical toxicity at least in part by altering host gene expression. Studies on the role of the microbiome in chemical‐induced cancer using germ‐free animal models should consider the potential difference in dose due to the microbiome‐mediated changes in host metabolizing capacity, which might influence the ability to draw conclusions especially for tumor induction models that are dose dependent.
Investigation of drought in the northern Iraq region
Authors: Yenigun Kasım , Ibrahim Wlat A.
Published: January 2019

Drought is a phenomenon of climate and is one of the catastrophic events that cause much damage on each occurrence. One of the ways of drought adjustment, evaluation and drought monitoring is based on indicators that can be used to determine its extent and continuity in a region. In this study, drought analysis (the duration and severity of drought) in the north Iraq region was studied by using the Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI) for time intervals of 1, 3, 6, 9 and 12 months. That feature of this method helps to compare the drought events in different places and scales. To observe dry and wet periods and the severity and length of drought monthly rainfall data of 15 meteorological stations of the northern Iraq provinces from 1979 to 2013 were used. Calculations were performed on the SPI by using the SPI code in MATLAB computer software. The results of the study showed that the continuity of dry periods in the 6, 9 and 12 month periods was higher than in the 1 and 3 month time intervals. Moreover, according to the calculation, the driest year was observed in 2008. This analysis is essential because it gives full information about the longest dry and wet periods for all stations of the region.
RNA‐Seq detects a SAMD12‐EXT1 fusion transcript and leads to the discovery of an EXT1 deletion in a child with multiple osteochondromas
Authors: Oliver Gavin R. , Blackburn Patrick R. , Ellingson Marissa S. , Conboy Erin , Pinto e Vairo Filippo , Webley Matthew , Thorland Erik , Ferber Matthew , Van Hul Els , van der Werf Ilse M. , Wuyts Wim , Babovic‐Vuksanovic Dusica , Klee Eric W.
Published: January 2019

Background

We describe a patient presenting with pachygyria, epilepsy, developmental delay, short stature, failure to thrive, facial dysmorphisms, and multiple osteochondromas.

Methods

The patient underwent extensive genetic testing and analysis in an attempt to diagnose the cause of his condition. Clinical testing included metaphase karyotyping, array comparative genomic hybridization, direct sequencing and multiplex ligation‐dependent probe amplification and trio‐based exome sequencing. Subsequently, research‐based whole transcriptome sequencing was conducted to determine whether it might shed light on the undiagnosed phenotype.

Results

Clinical exome sequencing of patient and parent samples revealed a maternally inherited splice‐site variant in the doublecortin (DCX) gene that was classified as likely pathogenic and diagnostic of the patient's neurological phenotype. Clinical array comparative genome hybridization analysis revealed a 16p13.3 deletion that could not be linked to the patient phenotype based on affected genes. Further clinical testing to determine the cause of the patient's multiple osteochondromas was unrevealing despite extensive profiling of the most likely causative genes, EXT1 and EXT2, including mutation screening by direct sequence analysis and multiplex ligation‐dependent probe amplification. Whole transcriptome sequencing identified a SAMD12‐EXT1 fusion transcript that could have resulted from a chromosomal deletion, leading to the loss of EXT1 function. Re‐review of the clinical array comparative genomic hybridization results indicated a possible unreported mosaic deletion affecting the SAMD12 and EXT1 genes that corresponded precisely to the introns predicted to be affected by a fusion‐causing deletion. The existence of the mosaic deletion was subsequently confirmed clinically by an increased density copy number array and orthogonal methodologies

Conclusions

While mosaic mutations and deletions of EXT1 and EXT2 have been reported in the context of multiple osteochondromas, to our knowledge, this is the first time that transcriptomics technologies have been used to diagnose a patient via fusion transcript analysis in the congenital disease setting.
Combined Ligand and Fragment‐based Drug Design of Selective Histone Deacetylase – 6 Inhibitors
Authors: Ruzic Dusan , Petkovic Milos , Agbaba Danica , Ganesan A. , Nikolic Katarina
Published: January 2019

Histone deacetylase 6 (HDAC6) is unique hydrolase within HDAC family, having pleiotropic deacetylase activity against α‐tubulin, cortactin and dynein. Comprehensively, HDAC6 controls cell motility, apoptosis and protein folding, whereas alterations in its structure and function are related to the pathogenesis of cancer, neurodegeneration and inflammation. To define structural motifs which guide HDAC6 selectivity, we developed and compared three‐dimensional Quantitative Structure‐Activity Relationship (3D‐QSAR) models for HDAC1 and HDAC6 inhibitors. The reduction of the bias in conformer generation was supported by virtual docking study by using crystal structures of human HDAC1 and HDAC6 isoforms. Following these findings, the combined ligand‐based and fragment‐based drug design methodologies were used in the design of selective HDAC6 inhibitors. Group of the most promising novel ligands was selected based on the predicted HDAC6 selectivity, pharmacokinetic profile, synthetic tractability, and in silico cytotoxicity against the wide range of human cancer cell lines.
mRNA/lncRNA expression patterns and the function of fibrinogen‐like protein 2 in Meishan pig endometrium during the preimplantation phases
Authors: Wang Yueying , Hua Renwu , Xue Songyi , Li Wenchao , Wu Lihang , Kang Tingting , Lei Minggang
Published: January 2019

Embryonic implantation involves a complex and well‐coordinated interaction between the developing conceptus and maternal uterus, and the preimplantation period has a major impact on litter size in pigs. The present study aimed to investigate the vital messenger RNAs (mRNAs) and long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) that regulate preimplantation in Meishan pigs. The enriched Gene Ontology terms were all related to “binding.” Furthermore, “ECM‐receptor interaction” was predicted as an important pathway that regulated the success of implantation. We speculated that the differentially expressed mRNAs S100A9,
ANXA8,
MUC16, and
FGL2 and the differentially expressed lncRNAs
TCONS_11206566,
TCONS_09904861, and
TCONS_1252933 may play vital roles in the process of implantation. Furthermore, this study verified that
FGL2 was highly expressed on Day 12 of pregnancy, and we also investigated the function of FGL2 during preimplantation in vivo. In conclusion, this study provides useful information for further analyses of the molecular mechanisms of implantation in Chinese domestic pigs.
Optimized neural network using beetle antennae search for predicting the unconfined compressive strength of jet grouting coalcretes
Authors: Sun Yuantian , Zhang Junfei , Li Guichen , Wang Yuhang , Sun Junbo , Jiang Chao
Published: January 2019

This investigation studied the coalcrete, a new supporting material produced by jet grouting (JG) for supporting surrounding coal seams. For support design, the unconfined compressive strength (UCS) of the coalcrete is an essential parameter to evaluate the jet grouting effect in coal mines. In this study, an intelligent technique was proposed for predicting the UCS of the coalcrete by combining back propagation neural network (BPNN) and beetle antennae search (BAS). The architecture of BPNN was first tuned by BAS, and then, the optimized BPNN‐BAS model was subsequently used for nonlinear relationship modeling. Several crucial influencing variables including water‐cement ratio, coal‐grout ratio, and curing time were selected as the inputs. By combining these variables, 360 coalcrete samples were prepared in a controlled laboratory environment and tested for establishing the dataset. The results demonstrate that BAS can tune the BPNN architecture more efficiently compared with random selection. Moreover, in comparison with multiple regression (MLR) and logistic regression (LR), and support vector machine (SVM), the optimized BPNN‐BAS model is more reliable and accurate for predicting coalcrete strength. Sensitivity analysis (SA) was used to obtain the variable importance, and the results demonstrate that curing time affects the UCS of the coalcrete most strongly, followed by water‐cement ratio and coal‐grout ratio. The success of this study provides an accurate and brief approach to coalcrete strength prediction.
Micromechanical analysis of sand production
Authors: Garolera Daniel , Carol Ignacio , Papanastasiou Panos
Published: January 2019

We present a micromechanical approach based on zero‐thickness interface elements for modelling advanced localization and cracking states of cemented granular materials, such as reservoir sandstones. The proposed methodology is capable of reproducing the complex behaviour of intergranular and intragranular localization, cracking, and fracturing of rock formation that leads to sanding in hydrocarbon production. The model is calibrated at the macroscale, using only a few physical parameters, by reproducing the typical behaviour of compression element tests. The model exhibits clear transition behaviour from brittle dilatant to ductile compactant behaviour with increasing confining stress. The methodology is implemented for sand production prediction analysis based on the simulation of 2D micromechanical models of hollow cylinder cross sections. The obtained results are compared well with published experimental data from hollow cylinder tests characterized by strong scale effect in the range of small perforations.
Effective Counter‐Terrorism: Rockets, Iron Dome, and the Israeli Housing Market
Authors: Elster Yael , Zussman Asaf , Zussman Noam
Published: January 2019

How effective is counter‐terrorism and what are the underlying mechanisms? Relying on a unique experiment and detailed micro data from Israel, we show that the deployment of the Iron Dome anti‐rocket system mitigated the negative effect of rocket attacks on house prices and lowered the price premium associated with in‐house shelters. Analysis of surveys and data on purchases of anti‐anxiety drugs yields evidence consistent with a psychological mechanism: by reducing the negative effects on daily routine, subjective well‐being, and psychological distress, Iron Dome lowered the disamenity associated with living under the shadow of the rocket threat.
Integration of microbiology, molecular pathology, and epidemiology: a new paradigm to explore the pathogenesis of microbiome‐driven neoplasms
Authors: Hamada Tsuyoshi , Nowak Jonathan A , Milner Danny A , Song Mingyang , Ogino Shuji
Published: January 2019

Molecular pathological epidemiology (MPE) is an integrative transdisciplinary field that addresses heterogeneous effects of exogenous and endogenous factors (collectively termed ‘exposures’), including microorganisms, on disease occurrence and consequences,
utilising molecular pathological signatures of the disease. In parallel with the paradigm of precision medicine, findings from MPE research can provide aetiological insights into tailored strategies of disease prevention and treatment. Due to the availability of molecular pathological tests on tumours, the MPE approach has been utilised predominantly in research on cancers including breast, lung, prostate, and colorectal carcinomas. Mounting evidence indicates that the microbiome (inclusive of viruses, bacteria, fungi, and parasites) plays an important role in a variety of human diseases including neoplasms. An alteration of the microbiome may be not only a cause of neoplasia but also an informative biomarker that indicates or mediates the association of an epidemiological exposure with health conditions and outcomes. To adequately educate and train investigators in this emerging area, we herein propose the integration of microbiology into the MPE model (termed ‘microbiology‐MPE’), which could improve our understanding of the complex interactions of environment, tumour cells, the immune system, and microbes in the tumour microenvironment during the carcinogenic process. Using this approach, we can examine how lifestyle factors, dietary patterns, medications, environmental exposures, and germline genetics influence cancer development and progression through impacting the microbial communities in the human body. Further integration of other disciplines (e.g. pharmacology, immunology, nutrition) into microbiology‐MPE would expand this developing research frontier. With the advent of high‐throughput next‐generation sequencing technologies, researchers now have increasing access to large‐scale metagenomics as well as other omics data (e.g. genomics, epigenomics, proteomics, and metabolomics) in population‐based research. The integrative field of microbiology‐MPE will open new opportunities for personalised medicine and public health. Copyright © 2019 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Manipulating Interfacial Strength of Polyphosphazene Functionalized Carbon Fiber Composites
Authors: Cheng Xiangtian , He Zhuojian , Luo Yuancong , Zhang Xiaoqing , Lei Caihong
Published: January 2019

To gain a better understand the correlation between the amount of polar functional groups and interfacial properties, we propose to functionalize carbon fiber (CF) with amine‐capped cross‐linked polyphosphazene (ACP) and tailor the polycondensation time, aiming to control the amount of amine groups on CF surface. The chemical composition and surface morphology of modified CF were systematically investigated. The results show that the ACP was uniformly distributed on CF surfaces. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy results confirmed that the quantity of amine groups is proportional to that of grafted ACP as the reaction time prolong, and it reaches the plateau when the reaction time exceed 35 h. The microbond testing results reveal a positive correlation of the amount of amine groups and interfacial shear strength, and the ACP‐grafted CF with 35 h reinforced composites possess best IFSS (92.1 MPa), with an increase of about 33.5% compared with that of oxidized CF‐reinforced composites. POLYM. COMPOS., 40:E1831–E1839, 2019. © 2019 Society of Plastics Engineers
Effect of nanoparticle localization on the rheology, morphology and toughness of nanocomposites based on poly(lactic acid)/natural rubber/nanosilica
Authors: Nematollahi Mahsa , Jalali‐Arani Azam , Modarress Hamid
Published: January 2019

In this study, poly(lactic acid)/natural rubber blends and their nanocomposites with silica nanoparticles were prepared via the melt mixing process. The rheology, morphology and impact resistance of the prepared samples were examined depending on the silica content (0–7 phr) and its localization. The results obtained showed that the incorporation of silica below its percolation threshold led to its selective localization in the matrix and mostly near the interface. This was in agreement with the results obtained by calculation of the wetting parameter. At a high content of silica, the silica nanoparticles could also be located in the dispersed phase. Energy dispersive spectroscopy and compositional mapping of oxygen and silicon atoms proved the presence of nanoparticles at the interface. The formation of a silica nanolayer with a thickness of 55–70 nm at the interface was shown by AFM. An optimum amount of nanosilica in the blend, through its interfacial localization and reduction of the natural rubber droplet size (confirmed by SEM test), caused a significant improvement in the impact strength, which was nearly 26 times that of neat poly(lactic acid). © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Transport models in disordered organic semiconductors and their application to the simulation of thin‐film transistors
Authors: Simonetti Olivier , Giraudet Louis
Published: January 2019

Relevant organic thin‐film transistor (OTFT) simulation software must account for the main specificities of organic semiconductors (OSCs) in terms of free carrier density of states, transport mechanisms and injection/collection properties from/to the device contacts. Among the parameters impacting the OTFT performance carrier mobility is a key parameter. Usual methods to extract the mobility from current–voltage measurements lead to only an apparent, or effective, mobility. The value of the apparent mobility is different from the intrinsic channel OSC mobility. Although the effective mobility actually determines most of a given device performance, therefore providing a very useful technology benchmark, it does not describe the intrinsic OSC material transport properties, and may even be misleading in the route to improving the OTFT fabrication process. To obtain a better understanding of the transport properties in OSCs using OTFT electrical characterization, implementing an appropriate physical mobility model in OTFT current–voltage simulation software is mandatory. The present paper gives a review of the carrier mobility models which can be implemented in OTFT simulation software. The review is restricted to analytical and semi‐analytical physical models taking into account the temperature, the carrier concentration and the electric field dependence of the carrier mobility in disordered OSCs. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Asthma is associated with increased probability of needing CPAP in children with severe obstructive sleep apnea
Authors: Kilaikode Sasikumar , Weiss Miriam , Megalaa Rosemary , Perez Geovanny , Nino Gustavo
Published: January 2019

Objective

Initiation of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) in children with severe obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) is challenging and the distinct features of the subset of children requiring CPAP are poorly defined. Asthma often coexists with OSAS in children. The goal of this study was to explore the influence of asthma in the need for CPAP therapy in children with severe OSAS.

Hypothesis

Asthmatic children with severe OSAS have higher probability of needing CPAP than children with severe OSAS without asthma.

Methods

Cross‐sectional study of clinical presentation, individual risk factors, and initial overnight polysomnogram (PSG) parameters in children with severe OSAS. Severe OSAS was defined as an obstructive apnea hypopnea index ≥10/h. The association between asthma and CPAP initiation was studied individually and adjusted by pertinent covariates.

Results

Four hundred eligible children (mean age 7 years, ±SD 5.3) with severe OSAS were enrolled and 133 individuals (33%) were identified to have asthma. The proportion of children needing CPAP was significantly higher in asthmatics with severe OSAS (29%) compared to those with OSAS alone (14%) (P < 0.01). Multivariate analysis demonstrated that the association between asthma and the need of CPAP in pediatric severe OSAS was independent of demographics, OSAS severity, obesity, and history of adenotonsillectomy (P < 0.01).

Conclusion

Asthmatic children with severe OSAS have higher probability of needing CPAP independent of relevant covariables. This study further substantiates the link between OSAS and asthma in children and suggests the diagnosis of asthma may influence the need of CPAP therapy for severe OSAS.
Study on Burning and Thermal Decomposition Properties of HTPB Propellant Containing Synthesized Micro‐nano Ferric Perfluorooctanoate
Authors: Zhen Fei , Zhou Xu‐Yuan , Wang Li‐Qiong , Yang Rong‐Jie , Huang Feng‐Lei
Published: January 2019

A novel micro‐nano ferric perfluorooctanoate [Fe(PFO)3] was prepared and added in AP/Al/HTPB composite solid propellant as a catalyst to study its effects on burning and thermal decomposition properties of the propellant. To further discuss the possible thermal mechanism of the propellant containing Fe(PFO)3, the major effects of Fe(PFO)3 catalyst on Al were investigated by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermogravimetric analysis (TG) and X‐ray diffraction (XRD). Results show that By adding 3 w.t.% Fe(PFO)3, the burning rate could increase by 27.8 % at 3 MPa, meanwhile, the pressure exponent decreased. The aggregation/agglomeration process of the propellant containing Fe(PFO)3 efficiently suppressed, and the particle size of condensed combustion products decreased clearly. In addition, Fe(PFO)3 could reduce the thermal decomposition temperature of the propellant and enhance the heat release. Thermite reaction between decomposition products of Fe(PFO)3 and Al was triggered at 635 °C, resulting in heat release and formation of α‐Al2O3.
Carbon Nanotube Millikelvin Transport and Nanomechanics
Authors: Götz Karl J. G. , Schupp Felix J. , Hüttel Andreas K.
Published: January 2019

Single‐walled carbon nanotubes cooled to cryogenic temperatures are outstanding electronic as well as nanoelectromechanical model systems. To probe a largely unperturbed system, we measure a suspended carbon‐nanotube device where the nanotube is grown in the last fabrication step, thus avoiding damage and residues from subsequent processing. In this ultra‐clean device, we observe the transport spectrum and its interaction with nanoelectromechanics over a wide gate voltage range and thereby over a wide range of coupling parameters between the quantum dot and the contact electrodes.
Study on Band‐Gap Behaviors of 2D Hierarchical Re‐Entrant Lattice Structures
Authors: Hou Jiahong , Li Dong , Dong Liang
Published: January 2019

An investigation of Poisson's ratios and band gap behaviors of 2D hierarchical re‐entrant lattice structures is conducted using finite element method (FEM). The structure with a hierarchy order n (n≥1) is constructed by replacing each outmost vertex of the re‐entrant octagons of a hierarchical structure of hierarchy order n−1 with a smaller self‐similar re‐entrant octagon. The dispersion relation and transmission spectrum of the proposed hierarchical structures are analyzed based on the Bloch's theorem. The effects of geometrical parameters, order of rotational symmetry and orientation angle of some types of re‐entrant polygon cores on the lattice Poisson's ratio and band gap structures are also investigated. Results show that the re‐entrant structures with first order hierarchy exhibit a wider band gap and a stronger attenuation effect compared with structures without structural hierarchy. The first order 2D hierarchical re‐entrant structure with a negative Poisson's ratio of −0.032 exhibits the widest band gap, 17.8% wider than that of the zeroth order 2D re‐entrant structure. The order of rotational symmetry and the orientation angle of the re‐entrant polygon cores of the lattice have a strong impact on the lattice Poisson's ratio and band structures.
Effect of a chamomile extract in protecting against radiation‐induced intestinal mucositis
Authors: Khayyal Mohamed T. , Kreuter Matthias Heinrich , Kemmler Michael , Altmann Peter , Abdel‐Naby Doaa H. , El‐Ghazaly Mona A.
Published: January 2019

Compounds that prevent radiation‐induced mucositis may offer new therapeutic strategies for maintaining intestinal integrity in patients undergoing radiotherapy. A specially formulated chamomile extract was studied with the hope of proving efficacy in this regard. Intestinal mucositis was induced in rats by exposing them to whole body gamma‐irradiation. Rats were treated orally with the extract for 5 days before and 2 days after radiation exposure. One day later, rats were sacrificed. Histological examination of segments of small intestine showed shortening and fusion of villi, activation of mucus secreting glands, inflammatory cell infiltration of lamina propria, and mucosal atrophy. Intestinal homogenates showed an increase in tumor necrosis factor, a pro‐inflammatory cytokine, and myeloperoxidase, an indicator of cellular infiltration, as well as in thiobarbituric acid reactive substances and a reduction in glutathione content. Intestinal injury was further evidenced by an increase in diamine oxidase and a reduction in citrulline levels in the serum. A rise in apoptosis was evidenced by an increase in cytosolic cytochrome c, caspase‐3, and depletion of mitochondrial B‐cell lymphoma‐2/ Bax ratio. Most histological changes and associated derangement in related parameters were largely prevented by the chamomile extract, thus paving the way to a new therapeutic approach towards the management of radiation‐induced intestinal mucositis.
The beneficial health effects of green tea amino acid l‐theanine in animal models: Promises and prospects for human trials
Authors: Williams Jackson , Sergi Domenico , McKune Andrew J. , Georgousopoulou Ekavi N. , Mellor Duane D. , Naumovski Nenad
Published: January 2019

l‐Theanine (l‐THE) is a nonproteinogenic amino acid derived from green tea (Camellia sinensis), which exhibits strong antioxidant‐like properties and contributes to the favourable umami taste sensation. Several studies have reported that the consumption of this amino acid has many therapeutic effects, including improvements in brain and gastrointestinal function, cancer drug therapeutic efficacies, antihypertensive effects, and improved immune function. Considering the recent Western commercialisation and popularity of green tea consumption as a nootropic agent in humans, the aims of this review were to consolidate the existing knowledge from ex vivo and in vitro animal models and attempt to highlight the applicability of l‐THE towards the human clinical trials. Considering the anti‐inflammatory and antioxidants effects of l‐THE presented in the current review, further research must translate the existing knowledge gained from animal and cell models to exploring the potential metabolic health benefits and moderating effects on the pathogenesis of conditions such as obesity, arthritis, depression, and type 2 diabetes in human trials. This will bridge the gap in literature and provide more insights into the mechanisms driving pathologies characterised by the inflammatory response and oxidative stress.
Fast and Scalable Quantum Information Processing with Two‐Electron Atoms in Optical Tweezer Arrays
Authors: Pagano Guido , Scazza Francesco , Foss‐Feig Michael
Published: January 2019

Atomic systems, ranging from trapped ions to ultracold and Rydberg atoms, offer unprecedented control over both internal and external degrees of freedom at the single‐particle level. They are considered among the foremost candidates for realizing quantum simulation and computation platforms that can outperform classical computers at specific tasks. In this work, a realistic experimental toolbox for quantum information processing with neutral alkaline‐earth‐like atoms in optical tweezer arrays is described. In particular, a comprehensive and scalable architecture based on a programmable array of alkaline‐earth‐like atoms is proposed, exploiting their electronic clock states as a precise and robust auxiliary degree of freedom, and thus allowing for efficient all‐optical one‐ and two‐qubit operations between nuclear spin qubits. The proposed platform promises excellent performance thanks to high‐fidelity register initialization, rapid spin‐exchange gates, and error detection in read‐out. As a benchmark and application example, the expected fidelity of an increasing number of subsequent SWAP gates for optimal parameters is computed, which can be used to distribute entanglement between remote atoms within the array.
Machine Learning Applied to Quantum Synchronization‐Assisted Probing
Authors: Garau Estarellas Gabriel , Giorgi Gian Luca , Soriano Miguel C. , Zambrini Roberta
Published: January 2019

A probing scheme is considered with an accessible and controllable qubit, used to probe an out‐of equilibrium system consisting of a second qubit interacting with an environment. Quantum spontaneous synchronization between the probe and the system emerges in this model and, by tuning the probe frequency, can occur both in‐phase and in anti‐phase. The capability of machine learning in this probing scheme is analyzed based on quantum synchronization. An artificial neural network is used to infer, from a probe observable, main dissipation features, such as the environment Ohmicity index. The efficiency of the algorithm in the presence of some noise in the dataset is also considered. It is shown that the performance in either classification and regression is significantly improved due to the in/anti‐phase synchronization transition. This opens the way to the characterization of environments with arbitrary spectral densities.
A Novel Vapor‐Phase Ssynthetic Route for Fluoromethane toward Highly Efficient Industrial Production
Authors: Yang Gang , Zhang Chengping , Yang Hui‐e , Quan Hengdao
Published: January 2019

The preparation of CH3F via vapor phase catalytic fluorination of CH3OCH3 promoted by AlF3 (H‐AlF3, M‐AlF3, L‐AlF3) with different surface areas was investigated, with the reaction occurring as follows: CH3OCH3 +2 HF → 2CH3F + H2O. It was found that H‐AlF3 exhibited the highest catalytic activity with high stability among the three types of AlF3 tested in the 100‐h life‐span test, which can be attributed to the massive amount of amorphous AlF3 in H‐AlF3. H‐AlF3 contains the highest amount of acid and largest surface area among the AlF3 species. The synthetic route of CH3F showed higher conversion of raw material and better selectivity for CH3F than traditional routes.
Eschenmoser‐Coupling Reaction Furnishes Diazenyl‐1,2,4‐triazole‐5(4H)‐thione Derivatives
Authors: Hassan Alaa A. , Mohamed Nasr K. , Aly Ashraf A. , Tawfeek Hendawy N. , Bräse Stefan , Nieger Martin
Published: January 2019

Diazenyl 1,2,4‐triazol‐5(4H)‐thione derivatives were synthesized in good yields via Eschenmoser‐coupling reaction and nucleophilic attack between 1,4‐disubstituted thiosemicarbazides and 2,3,5,6‐tetrachloro‐1,4‐benzoquinone (p‐CHL). The structure of the synthesized compounds was confirmed by IR, NMR and mass spectral data as well as single crystal X‐ray analysis.
Hierarchical Self‐Assembly of Pyrene‐Linked Cyclodextrin and Adamantane‐Linked Naphthalene Diimide System: A Case of Inclusion‐Binding‐Assisted Charge‐Transfer Interaction
Authors: Jeevan Athira Kanakkattussery , Gopidas Karical Raman
Published: January 2019

Mixed stack charge transfer complexation between pyrene donor linked to β‐cyclodextrin and naphthalene diimide acceptor linked to adamantane, where the charge transfer interaction is augmented by inclusion binding of the adamantane moiety in β‐cyclodextrin, is studied. The association constant for the charge transfer complexation was 3.64 × 107 M−1, which is the highest value reported so far for any charge transfer complex. Complex formation was probed using 1H NMR, isothermal titration calorimetry, and circular dichroism studies. The results suggested that within the charge transfer complex the donor and acceptor exist as alternating units at an inter‐planar distance of 3.7 Å with a dihedral angle > 50° between them with each donor‐acceptor pair rotated slightly with respect to the preceding and succeeding pairs. The charge transfer complex undergo hierarchical self‐assembly to give twisted nanofibers as confirmed by Atomic force microscopic and Transmission electron microscopic studies. The excited state relaxation process in the charge transfer complex was investigated by femtosecond time‐resolved pump‐probe spectroscopy.
Synthesis of α‐Carbolines Using Palladium‐Catalyzed Intramolecular Amination of 3‐(2‐Chlorophenyl)‐2‐Aminopyridines
Authors: Hachiya Iwao , Shimada Satoshi , Fukutomi Makoto , Miura Ryoya , Shimizu Makoto
Published: January 2019

Synthesis of α‐carbolines is developed using palladium‐catalyzed intramolecular amination of 3‐(2‐chlorophenyl)‐2‐aminopyridines prepared by deprotection of 2‐iminopyridines synthesized using the conjugate addition reaction of ethyl 2‐(2‐chlorophenyl)‐2‐cyanoacetate to alkynyl imines. The palladium‐catalyzed intramolecular amination of the synthesized 2‐aminopyridines proceeded smoothly under microwave irradiation conditions to give the desired α‐carbolines in moderate to good yields.
Biomorphic CoNC/CoOx Composite Derived from Natural Chloroplasts as Efficient Electrocatalyst for Oxygen Reduction Reaction
Authors: Guo Xingmei , Qian Cheng , Shi Ruhua , Zhang Wei , Xu Fei , Qian Silu , Zhang Junhao , Yang Hongxun , Yuan Aihua , Fan Tongxiang
Published: January 2019

Natural chloroplasts containing big amounts of chlorophylls (magnesium porphyrin, Mg‐Chl) are employed both as template and porphyrin source to synthesize biomorphic CoNC/CoOx composite as electrocatalyst for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). Cobalt‐substituted chlorophyll derivative (Co‐Chl) in chloroplasts is first obtained by successively rinsing in hydrochloric acid and cobalt acetate solutions. After calcining in nitrogen to 800 °C, Co‐Chl is transferred to CoNC; while other parts of chloroplasts adsorbed with Co ions are transferred to CoOx retaining the microarchitecture of chloroplasts. The abundant active CoNC sites are protected by circumjacent biocarbon and CoOx to avoid leakage and agglomeration, and at the same time can overcome the poor conductivity weakness of CoOx by directly transporting electrons to the carbonaceous skeleton. This unique synergistic effect, together with efficient bioarchitecture, leads to good electrocatalytical performance for the ORR. The onset and half‐wave potentials are 0.89 and 0.82 V versus reversible hydrogen electrode, respectively, with better durability and methanol tolerance than that of commercial Pt/C. Different from the traditional concept of biomorphic materials which simply utilize bioarchitectures, this work provides a new example of coupling bioderivative components with bioarchitectures into one integrated system to achieve good comprehensive performance for electrocatalysts.
Atomic Cobalt on Defective Bimodal Mesoporous Carbon toward Efficient Oxygen Reduction for Zinc–Air Batteries
Authors: Lyu Xiao , Li Gen , Chen Xiaokang , Shi Bowen , Liu Jizi , Zhuang Linzhou , Jia Yi
Published: January 2019

Single‐atom catalysts (SACs) with maximum atom‐utilization efficiency and distinctive properties are emerging as a new frontier in the field of catalysis. Herein, a new strategy for synthesizing stable Co single atoms with content of about 1.52 wt% on defective bimodal mesoporous carbon materials (A‐Co@CMK‐3‐D) is reported. The dispersion and coordination structures of atomic Co species at carbon defect sites are confirmed by both aberration‐corrected high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy (AC‐HRTEM) and X‐ray absorption spectrometry, respectively. The obtained catalyst exhibits efficient electrochemical performance on oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) in an alkaline electrolyte with a half‐wave potential (0.835 V vs RHE), which is comparable to that of Pt/C (0.839 V vs RHE). Furthermore, the Zn–air batteries (ZABs) fabricated by this electrocatalyst display a superior discharging and charging performance with long‐term durability. This work provides a new approach on optimizing SAC‐based carbon materials from multiscale principles (simultaneous regulation of electronic structure and hierarchical morphology) to boost ORR reactivity.
Were Nineteenth‐Century Industrial Workers Permanent Income Savers?
Authors: Bodenhorn Howard
Published: January 2019

Theories of household saving posit that households add to or draw down wealth to equalize the discounted present value of consumption over time. This article examines the extent to which 19th century urban American industrial workers saved and dissaved to smooth consumption in response to unanticipated, plausibly exogenous, shocks to income. Information on the expected and unexpected number of days unemployed is used to construct estimates of transitory income. The data are then used to estimate the marginal propensity to save from transitory income. The results are broadly consistent with Friedman's () permanent income hypothesis in that the marginal propensity to consume from transitory income is about twice that of nontransitory income.
Doubly robust estimation in observational studies with partial interference
Authors: Liu Lan , Hudgens Michael G. , Saul Bradley , Clemens John D. , Ali Mohammad , Emch Michael E.
Published: January 2019

Interference occurs when the treatment (or exposure) of one individual affects the outcomes of others. In some settings, it may be reasonable to assume that individuals can be partitioned into clusters such that there is no interference between individuals in different clusters, that is, there is partial interference. In observational studies with partial interference, inverse probability weighted (IPW) estimators have been something else different possible treatment effects. However, the validity of IPW estimators depends on the propensity score being known or correctly modelled. Alternatively, one can estimate the treatment effect using an outcome regression model. In this paper, we propose doubly robust (DR) estimators that utilize both models and are consistent and asymptotically normal if either model, but not necessarily both, is correctly specified. Empirical results are presented to demonstrate the DR property of the proposed estimators and the efficiency gain of DR over IPW estimators when both models are correctly specified. The different estimators are illustrated using data from a study examining the effects of cholera vaccination in Bangladesh.