bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Standardization and reproducibility of sonographic stomach position grades in fetuses with congenital diaphragmatic hernia
Authors: Ibirogba Eniola R. , Novoa Y Novoa Victoria Arruga , Sutton Laura F. , Neis Allan E. , Marroquin Amber M. , Coleman Tracey M. , Praska Kathleen A. , Freimund Tamara A. , Ruka Krystal L. , Warzala Vicki L. , Sangi‐Haghpeykar Haleh , Ruano Rodrigo
Published: July 2019

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the reproducibility of stomach position grading in congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) as proposed by Cordier et al and Basta et al after standardization of the methods at our center.

Methods

We collected sonographic images from 23 fetuses with left‐sided CDH at our center from 2010 to 2018. Nine operators (one maternal fetal medicine expert and eight sonographers) reviewed the selected images and graded the stomach position according to the methods of Cordier et al and Basta et al. We assessed the interoperator agreement with Fleiss's kappa statistics.

Results

Overall agreement amongst all operators was moderate for both methods proposed by Cordier et al (k = 0.60, SE 0.07, 95% CI 0.47‐0.73, P < .0001) and Basta et al (k = 0.60, SE 0.06, 95% CI 0.47‐0.73, P < .0001). Interoperator agreement was moderate for grade 3 with the method by Cordier et al (k = 0.45, SE 0.09, 95% CI 0.27‐0.64, P < .0001) and fair for grade 4 with the method by Basta et al (k = 0.33, SE 0.08, 95% CI 0.18‐0.49 P < .0001).

Conclusions

Our study demonstrates a fair to moderate interoperator agreement of the stomach position grading methods proposed in the literature after standardization of the methods at our center. Further multicenter studies are needed to confirm our results.
3‐(α‐Chlorobenzyl)quinoxalin‐2(1H)‐ones as Versatile Reagents for the Synthesis of 3‐Benzylquinoxalin‐2(1H)‐ones and Thiazolo[3,4‐a]quinoxalin‐4(5H)‐ones
Authors: Mamedov Vakhid A. , Zhukova Nataliya A. , Syakaev Victor V. , Beschastnova Tat'yana N. , Kadyrova Milyausha S. , Isaeva Anastasiya O. , Mamedova Sevil V. , Gavrilova Elena L. , Latypov Shamil K. , Sinyashin Oleg G.
Published: July 2019

Facile and efficient methods for the synthesis of 3‐benzylquinoxalin‐2(1H)‐ones and thiazolo[3,4‐a]quinoxalin‐4(5H)‐ones by the reaction of the readily available 3‐(α‐chlorobenzyl)quinoxalin‐2(1H)‐ones and thiourea have been developed, with multiple roles of the latter. Possible mechanisms are discussed. These two‐step sequences can be performed in a one‐pot manner to produce the desired products in moderate to high yields.
An Unprecedented Synthesis of 3,3‐Disubstituted Isochroman‐1,4‐diones Using Nitrones as Oxygen Atom Donors
Authors: Sathi Vidya , Deepthi Ani , Thomas Noble V.
Published: July 2019

A one‐pot reaction of ninhydrin, N‐methyl‐C‐phenyl nitrone, and secondary amine leading to the unprecedented synthesis of 3,3‐disubstituted isochroman‐1,4‐diones is described here. In this reaction, nitrone acts as an oxygen atom donor producing an imine as a side product. The mild reaction conditions, the flexibility of the secondary amines that can be used, the novelty of the product, and the good yields are the highlights of this reaction.
Comparison and evaluation of the efficacy of compressed SENSE (CS) and gradient‐ and spin‐echo (GRASE) in breath‐hold (BH) magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP)
Authors: He Ming , Xu Jin , Sun Zhaoyong , Wang Shitian , Zhu Liang , Wang Xiaoqi , Wang Jiazheng , Feng Feng , Xue Huadan , Jin Zhengyu
Published: July 2019

Contract grant sponsor

Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (CAMS) Initiative for Innovative Medicine; Contract grant number: 2017‐I2M‐1‐001; Contract grant sponsor: Outstanding Youth Fund of Peking Union Medical College Hospital; Contract grant number: JQ201704; Contract grant sponsor: National Natural Science Foundation of China; Contract grant number: 81871512; Contract grant sponsor: National Public Welfare Basic Scientific Research Program of Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences; Contract grant numbers: 2018PT32003 and 2017PT32004.

Background

Both compressed‐sensing (CS) and gradient‐ and spin‐echo (GRASE) sequences can achieve 3D magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) with a single breath‐hold (BH). This work hypothesized that compared with conventional navigator‐triggered (NT)‐MRCP, the two BH‐MRCP protocols, GRASE and CS, may provide better imaging quality, especially for patients with irregular breathing.

Purpose

To evaluate and compare the image quality and diagnostic performance of three MRCP protocols.

Study Type

Prospective.

Subjects

Seventy‐four patients suspected to have duct‐related pathologies were enrolled.

Field Strength

3.0T.

Sequences

NT‐MRCP, BH‐CS‐MRCP, and BH‐GRASE‐MRCP.

Assessment

Breath regularity was evaluated subjectively according to the respiratory waves. The acquisition time was compared. The pancreaticobiliary system was divided into 12 segments and evaluated on a 5‐point scale. The diagnostic performance of the three MRCPs was evaluated and compared.

Statistical Tests

The Friedman test with a post‐hoc test, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis, McNemar test, and Kendall's W test were used.

Results

The BH‐MRCP decreased the scan time significantly (P < 0.05). The overall imaging scores of GRASE‐MRCP and CS‐MRCP were significantly higher than that of NT‐MRCP for patients with irregular breathing (4.283 and 4.283 vs. 3.000, both P < 0.05). Compared with NT‐MRCP, the diagnostic performance of BH‐CS and BH‐GRASE MRCP was significantly improved for patients with irregular breathing (AUC = 0.860 and 0.863 vs. 0.572, both P < 0.001).

Data Conclusion

Compared with conventional NT‐MRCP, the overall imaging quality and diagnostic performance of BH‐CS and BH‐GRASE MRCP were not significantly different for patients with regular breathing and significantly superior for patients with irregular breathing.

Level of Evidence: 2

Technical Efficacy: Stage 2

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2020;51:824–832.
Robotic vs laparoscopic hemihepatectomy: A comparative study from a single center
Authors: Wang Zi‐Zheng , Tang Wen‐Bo , Hu Ming‐Gen , Zhao Zhi‐Ming , Zhao Guo‐Dong , Li Cheng‐Gang , Tan Xiang‐Long , Zhang Xuan , Lau Wan Yee , Liu Rong
Published: July 2019

Background

Robotic surgery is increasingly being used in hepatectomy. Previous studies comparing the robotic and laparoscopic minor hepatectomy have been documented, but comparative studies on robotic and laparoscopic hemihepatectomy (LH) involving a large patient cohort are rare. The objective of this study was to compare perioperative outcomes between robotic and LH.

Methods

Data on the demographics, clinicopathologic characteristics, and perioperative outcomes of consecutive patients who underwent robotic or LH in a single center between November 2011 and July 2017 were analyzed.

Results

A total of 92 patients underwent robotic and 48 LH. Multiple linear regression analysis showed no significant difference in perioperative outcomes including operative time, postoperative hospital stay, postoperative complications, and mortality between the groups. Compared to the laparoscopic cohort, the robotic cohort had a significantly less estimated blood loss (120.24 mL; 95% confidence interval, 53.72‐186.76) and a significantly lower conversation rate (1.09% vs 10.42%; P = .034). Stratified and interaction analyses demonstrated that disease type had an interaction effect on the association between the operative approach and the estimated blood loss.

Conclusions

Robotic hemihepatectomy was safe and feasible in selected patients. It had similar perioperative outcomes as LH and was better than LH regarding estimated blood loss and open conversion.
A method toward constituents with weak response in mass spectra for comprehensively characterizing constituents in traditional Chinese medicine formula, Kangfuxiaoyanshuan as a case
Authors: Xie Ziye , Yu Chanjuan , Gao Xiaoyan
Published: July 2019

How to identify the traces with weak response and poor mass spectrometry data is still a barrier to comprehensively characterize chemical constituents of traditional Chinese medicine formula. Thus, we took Kangfuxiaoyanshuan as a carrier to perform a method toward these weak response constituents in mass spectra. Chemical constituents profiling spectra of each herb and formula were firstly obtained by an ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with linear ion trap‐Orbitrap mass spectrometry. Next, the high response constituents in the formula were identified and suspicious constituents with weak response were classified preliminarily according to the reflection of chemical components from each herb. In order to clarify the suspicious, a method increasing detection concentration, optimizing chromatographic separation conditions, and online parameters in mass was established. As a result, a total of 123 chemical components including 43 suspicious components in Kangfuxiaoyanshuan were classified and characterized unambiguously.
Computed Tomography Versus Dacryocystography for the Evaluation of the Nasolacrimal Duct—A Study With 72 Patients
Authors: Papathanassiou Serafim , Koch Thomas , Suhling Marie Charlot , Lenarz Thomas , Durisin Martin , Stolle Stefan R. O. , Raab Peter
Published: July 2019

Objectives

In patients with epiphora, imaging of the nasolacrimal duct is essential not only for differential diagnosis, but also for preoperative planning. Advances in imaging technology and introduction of cone beam computed tomography (CB‐CT) enable the combination of contrast agent‐based imaging with a three dimensional tomography with low radiation exposure. However, the value of CT/CB‐CT as an alternative to conventional dynamic dacryocystography (DCG) has not been evaluated yet.

Study Design

Retrospective study.

Methods

Conventional DCG was performed preoperatively in 72 consecutive patients treated for epiphora between 01/2013 and 04/2015 in our department. CB‐CT or conventional CT was performed afterward with the contrast media still in place. Three separate experts (two radiologists and one otorhinolaryngologist) analyzed the radiographic images without any information about the respective clinical or surgical findings. The presence of further findings in the CT/CB‐CT (eg, septal deviation, sinusitis) that were not detected in DCG and the overall visibility of the lacrimal duct system in both modalities were evaluated.

Results

Good delineations of bone, soft tissue, and contrast agent in the lacrimal system were achieved with both methods. No side effects were noted. Beside the pathology of the lacrimal duct, CT/CB‐CT scans enabled the additional diagnosis of pathologies in the nose and the sinus system in 65.7% of the patients. Accordance in the identified level of obstruction between the two modalities was achieved in 71.4% of the patients.

Conclusion

Thus, CT/CB‐CT should be used in conjunction with contrast agent to reliably identify the level of obstruction as preoperative standard and can be used as diagnostic tool in addition to or even instead of conventional DCG.

Level of Evidence

4
Fatty Acid Profile of Pacific Oyster, Crassostrea gigas, Fed Different Ratios of Dietary Seaweed and Microalgae during Broodstock Conditioning
Authors: Rato Ana , Pereira Luís F. , Joaquim Sandra , Gomes Romina , Afonso Cláudia , Cardoso Carlos , Machado Jorge , Gonçalves José F. M. , Vaz‐Pires Paulo , Magnoni Leonardo J. , Matias Ana M. , Matias Domitília , Bandarra Narcisa M. , Ozório Rodrigo O. A.
Published: July 2019

The fatty acid (FA) profile of oysters generally reflects the dietary FA composition. Moreover, incorporation of FA into tissues is modulated by various metabolic factors, and final composition will depend upon the dietary sources, cumulative intake, and oysters' development stage. Thus, the aim of this study was to assess the impact of dietary incorporation of seaweed (SW) Ulva rigida, in replacement of traditional microalgae diet, on the FA composition of Pacific oysters Crassostrea gigas, during broodstock conditioning. The dietary conditioning consisted of direct replacement of microalgae (33% Tisochrysis lutea, 50.25% Skeletonema costatum, and 16.75% Chaetoceros calcitrans) by SW at four different substitution levels (0%, 25%, 50%, and 100% diet). The dietary docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) (22:6n‐3) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) (20:5n‐3) contents showed a positive correlation with the dietary microalgae level. During the trial, oysters fed with higher percentages of microalgae revealed a depletion of DHA and accumulation of EPA. The 100% SW caused a significant reduction in oxygen consumption and, consequently, in the standard metabolic rate. Based on these results, a partial substitution of up to 25% of dietary microalgae seems to be a suitable alternative, because it elicited similar results to the commercial 100% microalgae diet.
Menu positions influence soft drink selection at touchscreen kiosks
Authors: Schmidtke Kelly Ann , Watson Derrick G. , Roberts Pendaran , Vlaev Ivo
Published: July 2019

The current study investigates whether companies can influence which soft drink consumers select on touchscreen kiosks. Soft drink options presented on touchscreen kiosks are multi‐dimensional stimuli represented by icons and locations. Over time the pairing of icon and location forms an expectation that certain icons will be in certain locations. As a result of these location expectations, changing the order of soft drinks may help consumers consider more healthful items. In the current study, the Coca‐Cola icon was moved from the first to last location and the Coke Zero icon from the third to first. The intervention decreased the number of times Coca‐Cola was sold and increased the number of times Coke Zero was sold. The discussion explores the rationale for the intervention and the importance of fitting interventions into existing choice environments to modify real‐world behavior.
Use of a vascularized dorsal sensory branch of an ulnar nerve flap for repairing a proper digital nerve with coverage of a volar soft tissue defect: Report of two cases
Authors: Usami Satoshi , Kawahara Sanshiro , Inami Kohei , Hirase Yuichi
Published: July 2019

To repair a short nerve gap, autograft, allograft, autogenous, or synthetic conduits are selected, but a vascularized nerve autograft is preferred to obtain a reliable postoperative outcome in the case of an unfavorable wound bed. The purpose of this report is to describe and evaluate two cases of repair of a proper digital nerve and volar soft tissue defect with a vascularized dorsal sensory branch of an ulnar nerve flap. The cases of two men, 40 and 20 years old, who suffered index finger defects due to crush lacerations that required a flap and a nerve graft, are presented. A 4.0 cm × 2.0 cm and a 3.2 cm × 1.6 cm flap, which were nourished by the perforators from the ulnar proper digital artery of the little finger, were elevated from the ulnar side of fifth metacarpal bone head and transferred for coverage of the soft tissue defect. A 4.6‐cm and a 3.0‐cm vascularized nerve graft was interposed in the nerve gap. The patients' postoperative courses were uneventful, and both patients had no complaints related to the donor site. Static and moving two‐point discrimination were 8 and 6 mm, respectively, at 6 months after surgery in the first case and 5 and 3 mm, respectively, at 9 months after surgery in the second case. This flap, which could be elevated in the same operative field with a nerve having similar diameter to that of the proper digital nerve, was useful for repair of a finger volar tissue defect.
Mode‐matching analysis for characterization of the sectoral waveguide mode converters
Authors: Kumar Vikram , Dwivedi Smrity , Jain Pradip K.
Published: July 2019

An S‐band sectoral waveguide (SWG) mode converter was presented for simulation and electromagnetic analysis. A mode‐matching technique (MMT) for the electromagnetic analysis of an SWG mode converter has been proposed. The problem of trifurcation of the coaxial waveguide to shape SWGs and bifurcation of SWGs is discussed. In this framework, the selections of appropriate testing modes at each junction are justified. The simulation time has improved and the complexity of the proposed problem has reduced by the proposed approach. The numerical results of the MMT are compared against simulation results and are found to be in good agreement. The efficiency of both the simulated and analyzed results shows a mode conversion efficiency higher than 98.0%. An experimental evaluation shows the mode conversion of TM01 to TE11 mode using far‐field radiation patterns and has been compared with simulation results. Also, the MMT and simulation validate the mode conversion of TM01 to TE11 mode.
Multi‐center evaluation of stability and reproducibility of quantitative MRI measures in healthy calf muscles
Authors: Schlaffke Lara , Rehmann Robert , Rohm Marlena , Otto Louise A.M. , de Luca Alberto , Burakiewicz Jedrzej , Baligand Celine , Monte Jithsa , den Harder Chiel , Hooijmans Melissa T. , Nederveen Aart , Schlaeger Sarah , Weidlich Dominik , Karampinos Dimitrios C. , Stouge Anders , Vaeggemose Michael , D'Angelo Maria Grazia , Arrigoni Filippo , Kan Hermien E. , Froeling Martijn
Published: July 2019

The purpose of this study was to evaluate temporal stability, multi‐center reproducibility and the influence of covariates on a multimodal MR protocol for quantitative muscle imaging and to facilitate its use as a standardized protocol for evaluation of pathology in skeletal muscle.

Quantitative T2, quantitative diffusion and four‐point Dixon acquisitions of the calf muscles of both legs were repeated within one hour. Sixty‐five healthy volunteers (31 females) were included in one of eight 3‐T MR systems. Five traveling subjects were examined in six MR scanners. Average values over all slices of water‐T2 relaxation time, proton density fat fraction (PDFF) and diffusion metrics were determined for seven muscles. Temporal stability was tested with repeated measured ANOVA and two‐way random intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). Multi‐center reproducibility of traveling volunteers was assessed by a two‐way mixed ICC. The factors age, body mass index, gender and muscle were tested for covariance.

ICCs of temporal stability were between 0.963 and 0.999 for all parameters. Water‐T2 relaxation decreased significantly (P < 10−3) within one hour by ~ 1 ms. Multi‐center reproducibility showed ICCs within 0.879–0.917 with the lowest ICC for mean diffusivity. Different muscles showed the highest covariance, explaining 20–40% of variance for observed parameters.

Standardized acquisition and processing of quantitative muscle MRI data resulted in high comparability among centers. The imaging protocol exhibited high temporal stability over one hour except for water T2 relaxation times. These results show that data pooling is feasible and enables assembling data from patients with neuromuscular diseases, paving the way towards larger studies of rare muscle disorders.
Removing mesh bias in mixed‐mode cohesive fracture simulation with stress recovery and domain integral
Authors: Choi Habeun , Park Kyoungsoo
Published: July 2019

To remove mesh bias and provide an accurate crack path representation in mixed‐mode investigation, a novel stress recovery technique is proposed in conjunction with a domain integral and element splits. Based on a domain integral and stress recovery technique, a maximum strain energy release rate is estimated to determine a crack path direction. Then, for a given crack path direction, continuum elements are split, and a cohesive surface element is adaptively inserted. One notes that the proposed stress recovery technique provides a more accurate stress field than a standard stress evaluation procedure. The proposed computational framework is verified and validated by solving mode‐I and mixed‐mode examples. Computational results demonstrate that the domain integral with the stress recovery accurately evaluates a crack path, even with a lower‐quality mesh and under a biaxial stress state. Furthermore, the cohesive surface element approach, with the element split in conjunction with the stress recovery and the domain integral, predicts mixed‐mode fracture behaviors while removing mesh bias in the crack path representation. Additionally, the condition numbers of stiffness matrices are within the same order of magnitude during cohesive fracture simulation.
Risk for suicide nursing diagnosis and its related risk factors, in psychiatric settings: A descriptive study
Authors: Saatchi Babak , Taghavi Larijani Taraneh
Published: July 2019

Aim

To assess the frequency of risk for suicide nursing diagnosis and its related risk factors, in the nursing care provided in psychiatric settings.

Design

This is a descriptive study.

Methods

The samples were the documented nursing reports. These reports were evaluated and analysed in terms of using the NANDA‐I risk for suicide nursing diagnosis and the risk factors related to this diagnosis.

Results

From the 1,440 reports that were reviewed, 10 nursing diagnoses and 478 risk factors, were identified. Based on the results of this study, risk for suicide is used at a very low level in psychiatric settings, while, considerable number of suicide's risk factors are still existing in these settings.
A concept‐wide association study to identify potential risk factors for nonadherence among prevalent users of antihypertensives
Authors: Singh Karandeep , Choudhry Niteesh K. , Krumme Alexis A. , McKay Caroline , McElwee Newell E. , Kimura Joe , Franklin Jessica M.
Published: July 2019

Purpose

We sought to determine whether an association study using information contained in clinical notes could identify known and potentially novel risk factors for nonadherence to antihypertensive medications.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective concept‐wide association study (CWAS) using clinical notes to identify potential risk factors for medication nonadherence, adjusting for age, sex, race, baseline blood pressure, estimated glomerular filtration rate, and a combined comorbidity score. Participants included Medicare beneficiaries 65 years and older receiving care at the Harvard Vanguard Medical Associates network from 2010‐2012 and enrolled in a Medicare Advantage program. Concepts were extracted from clinical notes in the year prior to the index prescription date for each patient. We tested associations with the outcome for 5013 concepts extracted from clinical notes in a derivation cohort (4382 patients) and accounted for multiple hypothesis testing by using a false discovery rate threshold of less than 5% (q < .05). We then confirmed the associations in a validation cohort (3836 patients). Medication nonadherence was defined using a proportion of days covered (PDC) threshold less than 0.8 using pharmacy claims data.

Results

We found 415 concepts associated with nonadherence, which we organized into 11 clusters using a hierarchical clustering approach. Volume depletion and overload, assessment of needs at the point of discharge, mood disorders, neurological disorders, complex coordination of care, and documentation of noncompliance were some of the factors associated with nonadherence.

Conclusions

This approach was successful in identifying previously described and potentially new risk factors for antihypertensive nonadherence using the clinical narrative.
Oral aspiration, type 1 laryngeal cleft, and respiratory tract infections in canadian inuit children
Authors: Farrow Sarah , Agarwal Amisha , Saban Jeremy , Scott Darcy , Barrowman Nick , Kovesi Thomas
Published: July 2019

Canadian Inuit infants suffer the highest rate of lower respiratory tract infections (LRTI's) in the world. The causes of this are incompletely understood. The primary objective of this study was to determine whether there exists an association between respiratory morbidity and oral aspiration in Inuit children. A retrospective chart review was conducted including children from Nunavut who underwent Video Fluoroscopic Swallowing Study between the years of 2001 to 2015. The primary outcome was hospitalization for LRTI. We hypothesized that infants found to have aspiration would experience a higher rate of admissions for LRTI than those with normal swallowing studies. One‐hundred and twenty‐seven patients were identified, of whom 94 were included. Fifty‐six percent of patients had an abnormal swallowing study. Compared with patients with normal swallowing, the incidence rate of LRTI was higher in patients with aspiration (incidence rate ratio [IRR] = 1.51; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.23‐1.87) and in patients with penetration (IRR = 1.40; 95% CI = 1.11‐1.76). Fourteen percent of patients had confirmed laryngeal cleft; patients with confirmed presence of this also had a higher incidence rate of LRTI (IRR = 1.66; 95% CI = 1.32‐2.07). The incidence of abnormal swallowing study showed an 11‐fold variation across the five regions in Nunavut, with the highest prevalence in west Qikiqtani Region (Baffin Island). We conclude that swallowing dysfunction is not only prevalent amongst Canadian Inuit but clinically significant. This is the first study to demonstrate an association between swallowing dysfunction and respiratory morbidity in this population. Geographic distribution patterns and high rates of laryngeal cleft may point to a potential genetic etiology for what remains at this point, idiopathic swallowing dysfunction.
Effect of nebulizer type, delivery interface, and flow rate on aerosol drug delivery to spontaneously breathing pediatric and infant lung models
Authors: Ari Arzu
Published: July 2019

Background

Different types of nebulizers, interfaces, and flow rates are used to deliver aerosolized medications to children. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of nebulizer type, delivery interface, and flow rate on aerosol drug delivery to spontaneously breathing pediatric and infant lung models.

Methodology

A teaching mannequin was attached to a sinusoidal pump via a collecting filter at the bronchi to simulate a spontaneously breathing child (Vt: 250 mL, RR: 20 bpm and Ti: 1 second) and infant (Vt = 100 mL, RR = 30 bpm, Ti: 0.7 seconds). Albuterol sulfate was nebulized with jet (Misty Max 10; Cardinal Health) and mesh (Aerogen Solo; Aerogen) nebulizers using a low‐flow nasal cannula (LFNC; Hudson), a high‐flow nasal cannula (HFNC; Fisher & Paykel), face mask (FM; Hudson), and mouthpiece (MP; Cardinal Health). While all interfaces were used in the pediatric study, only LFNC, HFNC, and FM were tested in the infant study. The mesh nebulizer was tested at 2, 4, and 6 L/min with LFNC, 4 and 6 L/min with HFNC, and 6 L/min with FM and MP. The jet nebulizer was operated at 6 and 8 L/min with FM and 6 L/min with LFNC, HFNC, and MP (n = 5). The drug was eluted from the filter and analyzed by spectrophotometry. Factorial analysis of variance and post hoc comparisons were used for data analysis. P < .05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

Delivery efficiency of mesh nebulizers is two to fourfold more than jet nebulizers used with HFNC, FM, and MP. No statistical difference was found between jet and mesh nebulizers used with LFNC in infants (P = .643) and pediatrics (P = .255). Aerosol delivery with MP was the best compared to other interfaces used in pediatrics (P < .05). As the second‐best interface in aerosol drug delivery, the delivery efficiency of FM was greater than HFNC (P = .0001) and LFNC (P = .0001). Increasing flow rate with LFNC and HFNC decreased aerosol delivery with the mesh nebulizer in both infants and pediatrics.

Conclusion

The type of nebulizer, delivery interface, and flow rate used in the treatment of children affect aerosol drug delivery.
Tailoring of Double‐Walled Carbon Nanotubes for Formaldehyde Sensing through Encapsulation of Selected Materials
Authors: Chimowa George , Yang Lin , Lonchambon Pierre , Hungria Teresa , Datas Lucien , Vieu Christophe , Flahaut Emmanuel
Published: July 2019

Tailoring carbon nanomaterials for specific applications is of great importance in the quest to improve the properties of these materials, increasing their functionalities. Using a simple and easy to apply technique, zinc, zinc oxide, and iodine are encapsulated and confined within double‐walled carbon nanotubes (DWNTs) whose internal diameter ranges from 1.2 to 2.5 nm. The simultaneous confinement of zinc and iodine is shown to improve the sensitivity by 100 times while, at the same time, enhancing the selectivity of DWNTs toward formaldehyde. By exploiting the p‐doping effect of iodine, carbon nanotube (CNT) networks are engineered to differentiate formaldehyde from some of the common volatile organic compounds, such as ethanol and acetone. The ability to tune the chemical selectivity and sensitivity of CNT‐based sensors through inner encapsulation of a specific material thus appears as a new possible route compared with more conventional outer surface functionalization.
Chrysophanol attenuates airway inflammation and remodeling through nuclear factor‐kappa B signaling pathway in asthma
Authors: Song Guihua , Zhang Yan , Yu Suping , Lv Weigang , Guan Zhiwei , Sun Mengmeng , Wang Jing
Published: July 2019

Chrysophanol (CHR), a purified active constituent extracted from Rheum palmatum L., possesses anti‐inflammatory activity. This study aimed to evaluate its effects on asthma‐associated airway inflammation and remodeling. BALB/c mice were sensitized and challenged by ovalbumin (OVA) and administrated with different doses of CHR. We found that CHR decreased OVA‐induced pulmonary inflammation: the levels of interleukin (IL)‐4, IL‐5, and IL‐13, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α, and inducible nitric oxide synthase were downregulated. CHR also attenuated airway remodeling induced by OVA challenge—CHR inhibited pulmonary α‐smooth muscle actin expression. Moreover, both the nuclear translocation and activity of NF‐κB p65 were inhibited by CHR in the asthmatic lung. Enhanced autophagy was initiated in the lung by OVA challenge as evidenced by upregulated light chain 3 beta, autophagy‐related protein 5, and Beclin 1. CHR suppressed OVA‐induced alterations in these autophagy‐related molecules. In vitro, CHR (2 or 20 μM) was used to treat human pulmonary epithelial BEAS‐2B cells in the presence of 10 ng/ml recombinant TNF‐α. CHR not only exhibited the antiproliferation effect but also inhibited the activation of nuclear factor‐kappa B (NF‐kB) signaling pathway in TNF‐α‐treated BEAS‐2B cells. In conclusion, our study indicates that CHR has the potential to ameliorate asthma.
Correlation of electron density and bond length to band gap for binary oxides and halides
Authors: Ryang Myong‐Song , Kang Chol‐Jun , Choe Hyon‐Chol , Kim Nam‐Hyok
Published: July 2019

The best quantity correlated to the electronic energy band gap is found for alkali and alkaline‐earth metal oxides and halides with face centered cubic (fcc) structure based on density functional theory and Bader's atom‐in‐molecule theory. Previous studies show the correlation of the band gap to the ground state electron density at the bond critical point (BCP). Whereas, in quantum mechanics, the gap between the energy levels of one dimensional square well potential is inversely proportional to the square of the width of the well which is the metal–nonmetal chemical bond length in our case. These motivate the proposition of a new quantityQ, the ratio of the density at the BCP to the square of the bond length. Our study reveals that, for the aforementioned materials, the band gap has a strong correlation toQwhen they are multiplied by the density at the BCP.
Guaranteed cost finite‐time control for semi‐Markov jump systems with event‐triggered scheme and quantization input
Authors: Zong Guangdeng , Ren Hangli
Published: July 2019

In this paper, the guaranteed cost finite‐time control for semi‐Markov jump systems with unknown transition rates is addressed. An event‐triggered scheme is constructed to automatically monitor the data transmission and the input quantization is involved to reduce the cost of control. Different from the existing general transition rates in the semi‐Markov jump systems, the upper and lower bounds of transition rates are not given in advance but obtained through the stability criteria. The stability criteria are established to verify the stochastic finite‐time boundedness of the closed‐loop event‐triggered system and estimate the performance index of the given cost function. A guaranteed cost optimal controller is also proposed to stabilize the considered system. Finally, the vertical take‐off and landing helicopter model is introduced to verify the effectiveness of the main algorithms.
Methane Activation by (n=0, 1, 2; m= 1, 2): Reactivity Parameters, Electronic Properties and Binding Energy Analysis
Authors: Silva Telles Cardoso , dos Santos Pires Maíra , de Castro Alexandre Alves , Lacerda Lívia Clara Tavares , Rocha Marcus Vinícius Juliaci , Ramalho Teodorico Castro
Published: July 2019

The need for renewal and more efficient energy resources has led to a great interest in carrying out studies aiming to find novel sources of energy, which are able to supply the growing global demand, and providing an eco‐friendly usage of natural resources. In this context, the usage of methane stands out as a promising energetic alternative, mostly due to vast reserves, low cost and less polluting fuel. Theoretical studies with B3LYP, CCSD (t) and ZORA−B3LYP methods were used to look into the catalytic properties of (n= 0, 1, 2 and m=1, 2) in the methane C−H bond activation. According to the EDA results, the studied species presented two stabilizing factors for the global interaction energy, being the electrostatic ΔEelstatand orbital ΔEorbinteractions. The HOMO and LUMO orbitals were also evaluated based on the molecular orbital diagrams for the monoxides and dioxides series. Regarding the oxidative insertion mechanism, the results demonstrate that the initial interaction between oxide and methane is of great relevance in its activation process, in which EBondingis benefited by the increasingly charge on the central metal. The high electron density regarding the oxides is meaningful for the reaction kinetics and the oxo ligands influence the thermodynamics of the reaction, becoming the DHA mechanism exergonic. Regarding the OHM mechanism, better kinetic conditions are found for CoO2++and better thermodynamics for doubly charged cobalt monoxides and dioxides.
Protective effects of hepatocyte growth factor gene overexpression against hydrogen peroxide‐induced apoptosis in mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Choi Yong Jun , Lee Chang Min , Lee Jeong Hyun , Park See‐Hyoung , Nam Myeong Jin
Published: July 2019

Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) has recently been reported to exhibit antioxidant and antiapoptotic effects. Therefore, we investigated the effect of overexpression of HGF gene in H2O2‐treated mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). HGF‐overexpression increased the cell viability from 50% to 84%, decreased the population of apoptotic cells from 20% to 16%, and decreased the intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels from 127% to 100% in cells treated with H2O2. HGF suppression decreased the cell viability from 58% to 36%, increased the population of apoptotic cells from 23 to 81%, and increased the intracellular ROS levels from 181% to 240% in cells exposed to H2O2. HGF‐overexpression also reduced the expression levels of proapoptotic proteins in MSCs treated with H2O2. Phosphorylation of extracellular signal‐regulated kinases, c‐Jun amino‐terminal kinases, and p38, which was induced by H2O2, decreased in MSCs overexpressing the HGF gene. Taken together, our results suggest that HGF has a protective effect on H2O2‐induced apoptosis in MSCs.
Activated slag as an additive to rubberized unsaturated polyester composite: Thermal and mechanical study
Authors: Mousa Ahmad , Gedan‐Smolka Michaela , Wagenknecht Udo
Published: July 2019

Slag is by‐product of iron‐making industry and is commonly used in concrete working; however, the application of such inorganic material as an additive in the polymer composites field is quite new and has not yet been really explored. The current investigation reports the potential of virgin slag, strong polar acid activated slag and organic treated slag as reinforcement, fire and thermal resistance additive for rubberized, unsaturated polyester (R‐UPE) composites. The slag was subjected to three pretreatments, the first was mechanical (comminution) to reduce the particle size, the second was chemical activation by strong polar acid namely H2SO4, and the third was coating by organic stearic acid. The effectiveness of chemical activation and coating of the slag was followed by EDX and infrared attenuated total reflectance (ATR‐IR). The potential of activated and coated slag as reinforcement for rubberized, unsaturated polyester resin was evaluated and compared to the sample with pristine slag. The fabricated composites were evaluated with respect to their mechanical mechanical behavior. Thermal behavior was inspected using behavior using differential scanning calorimeter (DSC), dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) was investigated. Fire resistance of the R‐UPE containing slag was performed by direct exposure of the sample to torch. It has been found that the activated slag has improved the concerned properties. The observed findings were related to the role of activated and coated to interact with the R‐UPE matrix via polar–polar interaction due to the development of surface functional groups after chemical activation. J. VINYL ADDIT. TECHNOL., 26:173–179, 2020. © 2019 Society of Plastics Engineers
Gauged galileons
Authors: Garcia-Saenz Sebastian , Kang Jonghee , Penco Riccardo
Published: July 2019

Abstract

We discuss the gauging of non-linearly realized symmetries as a method to systematically construct spontaneously broken gauge theories. We focus in particular on galileon fields and, using a coset construction, we show how to recover massive gravity by gauging the galileon symmetry. We then extend our procedure to the special galileon, and obtain a theory that couples a massive spin-2 field with a traceless symmetric field, and is free of pathologies at quadratic order around flat space.
Topology-changing horizons at large D as Ricci flows
Authors: Emparan Roberto , Suzuki Ryotaku
Published: July 2019

Abstract

The topology-changing transition between black strings and black holes localized in a Kaluza-Klein circle is investigated in an expansion in the inverse of the number of dimensions D. Performing a new kind of large-D scaling reduces the problem to a Ricci flow of the near-horizon geometry as it varies along the circle direction. The flows of interest here simplify to a non-linear logarithmic diffusion equation, with solutions known in the literature which are interpreted as the smoothed conifold geometries involved in the transition, namely, split and fused cones, which connect to black holes and non-uniform black strings away from the conical region. Our study demonstrates the adaptability of the 1/D expansion to deal with all the regimes and aspects of the static black hole/black string system, and provides another instance of the manner in which the large D limit reduces the task of solving Einstein’s equations to a simpler but compelling mathematical problem.
What RK and Q5 can tell us about New Physics in b→sℓℓ transitions?
Authors: Algueró Marcel , Capdevila Bernat , Descotes-Genon Sébastien , Masjuan Pere , Matias Joaquim
Published: July 2019

Abstract

The deviations with respect to the Standard Model that are currently observed in b → sℓℓ transitions, or B anomalies, can be interpreted in terms of different New Physics (NP) scenarios within a model-independent effective approach. We identify a set of internal tensions of the fit that require further attention and whose theoretical or experimental nature could be determined with more data. In this landscape of NP, we discuss possible ways to discriminate among favoured NP hypotheses in the short term thanks to current and forthcoming observables. While an update of R

K
should help to disentangle the type of NP we may be observing (Lepton-Flavour Universality Violating and/or Lepton Flavour Universal), additional observables, in particular Q
5, turn out to be central to determine which NP hypothesis should be preferred. We also analyse the preferences shown by the current global fit concerning various NP hypotheses, using two different tools: the behaviour of the pulls of individual observables under NP scenarios and the directions favoured by approximate quadratic parametrisations of the observables in terms of Wilson coefficients.
An inelastic bound on chaos
Authors: Turiaci Gustavo J.
Published: July 2019

Abstract

We study a generalization of the chaos bound that applies to out-of-time-ordered correlators between four different operators. We prove this bound under the same assumptions that apply for the usual chaos bound and extend it to non-hermitian operators. In a holographic theory, these correlators are controlled by inelastic scattering in the bulk and we comment on implications. In particular, for holographic theories the bound together with the equivalence principle suggests that gravity is the highest spin force, and the strongest one with that spin.
Effect of temperature on methane oxidation and community composition in landfill cover soil
Authors: Reddy Krishna R , Rai Raksha K , Green Stefan J , Chetri Jyoti K
Published: July 2019

Municipal solid waste (MSW) landfills are the third largest anthropogenic source of methane (CH4) emissions in the United States. The majority of CH4 generated in landfills is converted to carbon dioxide (CO2) by CH4-oxidizing bacteria (MOB) present in the landfill cover soil, whose activity is controlled by various environmental factors including temperature. As landfill temperature can fluctuate substantially seasonally, rates of CH4 oxidation can also vary, and this could lead to incomplete oxidation. This study aims at analyzing the effect of temperature on CH4 oxidation potential and microbial community structure of methanotrophs in laboratory-based studies of landfill cover soil and cultivated consortia. Soil and enrichment cultures were incubated at temperatures ranging from 6 to 70 °C, and rates of CH4 oxidation were measured, and the microbial community structure was analyzed using 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing and shotgun metagenome sequencing. CH4 oxidation occurred at temperatures from 6 to 50 °C in soil microcosm tests, and 6–40 °C in enrichment culture batch tests; maximum rates of oxidation were obtained at 30 °C. A corresponding shift in the soil microbiota was observed, with a transition from putative psychrophilic to thermophilic methanotrophs with increasing incubation temperature. A strong shift in methanotrophic community structure was observed above 30 °C. At temperatures up to 30 °C, methanotrophs from the genus Methylobacter were dominant in soils and enrichment cultures; at a temperature of 40 °C, putative thermophilic methanotrophs from the genus Methylocaldum become dominant. Maximum rate measurements of nearly 195 μg CH4 g−1 day−1 were observed in soil incubations, while observed maximum rates in enrichments were significantly lower, likely as a result of diffusion limitations. This study demonstrates that temperature is a critical factor affecting rates of landfill soil CH4 oxidation in vitro and that changing rates of CH4 oxidation are in part driven by changes in methylotroph community structure.
Customer reactions to a webshop’s service quality
Authors: Hackl Franz , Winter-Ebmer Rudolf
Published: July 2019

E-commerce has become an integral part of the world’s economy. In this study we investigate the impact of service quality in e-tailing on site visits and consumer demand. Such an analysis is important given the almost Bertrand-like competitive structure. Our analysis is based on a large representative data set obtained from a price comparison site covering essentially the complete Austrian e-tailing market. Customer evaluations for a broad range of 15 different service characteristics are condensed using factor analysis. Negative binomial regression analysis is used to measure the impact of service quality dimensions on referral requests to online shops for different product categories. Our results show that the most important service quality aspects are those related to the ordering process and the firm’s website performance.
Lyapunov Spectrum of Nonautonomous Linear Young Differential Equations
Authors: Cong Nguyen Dinh , Duc Luu Hoang , Hong Phan Thanh
Published: July 2019

We show that a linear Young differential equation generates a topological two-parameter flow, thus the notions of Lyapunov exponents and Lyapunov spectrum are well-defined. The spectrum can be computed using the discretized flow and is independent of the driving path for triangular systems which are regular in the sense of Lyapunov. In the stochastic setting, the system generates a stochastic two-parameter flow which satisfies the integrability condition, hence the Lyapunov exponents are random variables of finite moments. Finally, we prove a Millionshchikov theorem stating that almost all, in a sense of an invariant measure, linear nonautonomous Young differential equations are Lyapunov regular.
Factors Affecting Discharge Disposition after Primary Simultaneous Bilateral Joint Arthroplasty
Authors: Edwards Danielle , Anderson Allison , Pleus Michael R. , Smith Jerome B. , Nguyen Joseph T.
Published: July 2019

Background

Predicting discharge destination following total joint arthroplasty (TJA) is important, as discharge destination has major implications for post-operative costs, clinical outcomes, and readmissions. Few studies have looked at factors affecting discharge destination for patients following primary simultaneous bilateral total joint arthroplasty.

Questions/Purposes

The purpose of this study was to describe clinical and social factors that relate to a discharge to home versus rehabilitation facility (RF) for patients after primary simultaneous bilateral total hip arthroplasty (PSBTHA) or primary simultaneous bilateral total knee arthroplasty (PSBTKA).

Methods

The inclusion criteria for this retrospective cohort study were all patients after PSBTHA or PSBTKA at a metropolitan orthopedic specialty hospital between February 1, 2016, and March 31, 2018. Exclusion criteria were revisions, differing weight-bearing status, bed-rest orders, and non-standard hip precautions. Social and clinical demographic data were collected. Multiple regression analysis was conducted to determine which factors related most to discharge plan.

Results

Of 253 PSBTHA patients, 153 were discharged home and 100 to an RF. Regression analysis found a posterolateral approach to be the only significant factor associated with an RF discharge. Of 619 PSBTKA patients, 136 were discharged home and 483 to RF. Increased body mass index and older age increased the likelihood of discharge to an RF. Patients with an adductor-only nerve block were more likely to be sent to RF.

Conclusion

These findings shed light on the variables that contribute to discharge destination after PSBTHA and PSBTKA. Such information allows for safe pre-operative discharge planning and assists with discharge to the appropriate level of patient care. Future studies might investigate the effect of surgeon experience, surgical technique, and pre-operative discussion with a physical therapist on the discharge disposition of patients undergoing bilateral total joint arthroplasty.