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Objective: Accidental pharyngeal fishbone ingestion is a common complaint in ear, nose, and throat clinics. Approximately two-thirds of the accidentally ingested fishbones can be removed using tongue depressors and indirect laryngoscopy. However, the remaining third is challenging to identify and remove using these methods. These difficult fishbones require identification and removal via more advanced approaches. Video-guided laryngoscope is used to deal with difficult fishbones in our center. This study aimed to explore the risk factors for difficult fishbones. Methods: A prospective study was performed at a teaching hospital on 2080 patients. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify the risk factors. Results: The common fishbone locations were the tonsils (39.8%; defined as STEP-I), tongue base (37.1%), vallecula (13.3%; STEP-II), and hypopharynx (9.8%; STEP-III). With increasing STEP level, the ratio of difficult fishbones correspondingly increased (Z = 13.919, P <.001), and the proportions were 21.1%, 41.9%, and 70% in STEP-I, II, and III, respectively. In particular, fishbones in STEP-III (vs STEP-I) had a higher risk of difficult fishbones (odds ratio [OR]: 11.573, 95% CI: 7.987-16.769). Complaints of neck pain (yes vs no), foreign body sensation (yes vs no), and shorter length of fishbones always had a lower risk of difficult fishbones (OR: 0.455, 95% CI: 0.367-0.564; OR: 0.284, 95% CI: 0.191-0.422; OR: 0.727, 95% CI: 0.622-0.85). Missing teeth (yes vs no), swallowing behavior after fishbone ingestion (yes vs no), and male patients (vs female) had a higher risk of difficult fishbones (OR: 1.9, 95% CI: 1.47-2.456; OR: 1.631, 95% CI: 1.293-2.059; OR: 1.278, 95% CI: 1.047-1.56). Conclusions: Neck pain, foreign body sensation, fishbone length, patient age and sex, tooth status, and swallowing behavior after fishbone ingestion are independent risk factors for difficult fishbones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

When chaotic systems are used for speech encryption, their chaotic performance largely determines the security of speech encryption. However, traditional chaotic systems have problems such as parameter discontinuity, easy occurrence of chaos degradation, low complexity, and the existence of periodic windows in chaotic intervals. In real applications, chaotic mappings may fall into periodic windows, which is extremely unfavorable for security. In this paper, a new chaotic mapping 2D-LMSM is proposed by improving the chaotic logistic and sine mappings, and applied to speech encryption. Performance evaluation shows that this map can effectively generate robust chaotic signals in a wide parameter range. The 2D-LMSM achieves better robustness and desired chaotic properties than several existing two-dimensional chaotic maps. We propose a novel speech encryption algorithm using this map. First, it performs Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) on the input speech signal to obtain real and imaginary values, which are encrypted by one-time scrambling encryption and XOR diffusion encryption with pseudorandom numbers generated by chaos; then, it performs secondary scrambling encryption by Discrete Wavelet Transform (DWT) and 2D-LMSM; finally, it obtains encrypted speech data by Discrete Wavelet Inverse Transform (IDWT) and Fast Fourier Inverse Transform (IFFT). Experimental results show that this algorithm has good encryption and decryption performances and ensures system security. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the existing papers considering the stability analysis of discrete-time systems with distributed delays via the Lyapunov-Krasovskii functional (LKF) method, the delay kernels are normally restricted to be non-negative. In this paper, we aim to remove such a restriction and deal with the stability analysis of systems with arbitrary delay kernels. For this purpose, a kernel-related summation inequality is first constructed. Then, a stability condition is derived based on the proposed inequality and a model transformation. Finally, two numerical examples are presented to show that the proposed stability condition not only has a wider scope of application and is less conservative than the existing ones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Otogenic lateral sinus thrombosis (OLST) is a rare complication of otitis media. We do not know whether the disease progress between the pediatric and adult OLST patients is consistent. However, pediatric surgical methods always refer to the adults'. This study aimed to seek evidence for suitable surgical methods in pediatric patients. The clinical manifestation, laboratory findings, and findings in operation between children and adult groups were compared. Ten children and 17 adults OLST patients were included. Most pediatric patients had no history of chronic otitis media or cholesteatoma (p<.001). The ratios of otorrhea, tympanic perforation and sclerotic type mastoid in CT scan were significantly lower in the children group (p<.05). The mean air conduction hearing threshold in the children and adolescent group (31.25 ± 21.27 dB) was significantly lower than that of the adult group (77.6 ± 23.66 dB) (p<.001). The diseases in attics (66.7%) and the ossicular chain destruction (33.3%) were not as severe as those in the adult group (p<.05). The eustachian tube closure was found similar in two groups. Conservative surgery is recommended to pediatric OLST to obliterate the diseases and improve middle ear and mastoid drainage, preserving hearing function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As one of the research hotspots in the field of speech recognition, content-based speech retrieval algorithms can detect speech information with the same content features, which improves computer intelligence while reducing labor costs, and thus have been widely used. Although most of the current speech content retrieval algorithms can guarantee excellent retrieval performance for small-scale speech retrieval work, the performance of the above algorithms is greatly reduced under the constraints of large speech data storage space and high content redundancy. In order to solve the above problems, a high-performance speech BioHashing retrieval algorithm based on audio segmentation is proposed in this paper. The algorithm is divided into an offline pre-processing phase and an online retrieval phase, The offline pre-processing stage converts the speech data into BioHashing sequences with speech content characteristics. In this process, first of all, the Power-Normalized Cepstral Coefficients (PNCC) features of the speech data are extracted and biometric templates with single mapping keys are constructed according to the PNCC features, obtaining BioHashing sequences. Then, slice the original speeches into short-time audio segments according to the proposed audio segmentation algorithm, and the hash reconstruction operation is performed on the BioHashing sequences to obtain the reconstructed Hashing sequences for online retrieval. The online search phase responds to the users' query requests, just find the hash index that matches the query hash sequence from the BioHashing index table, and will the standardized editing distance (SED) to the closest 1 value corresponding to the hash index as the retrieval result back to the user. The experimental results show that the reconstructed hash sequences obtained after removing the silent redundant segments have better robustness and discrimination. Moreover, the algorithm achieves 100% retrieval accuracy for the original speech clips, and the average retrieval time is only 0.0157 s, which shows that the algorithm has good retrieval performance and can meet the needs of speech retrieval in various environments. • The audio segmentation algorithm is applied to speech retrieval. • Using normalized editing distances to match hash sequences of different lengths. • The machine learning classification algorithm is applied to the speech feature data. • Constructing revocable biometric templates, implemented secondary distribution retrieval. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study is concerned with the problem of stability analysis of two‐dimensional (2D) discrete‐time Roesser systems with time‐varying delays. First, based on an augmented Lyapunov–Krosovskii functional, a less conservative stability criterion incorporating time‐varying terms is established by utilising a general free‐matrix‐based inequality. Next, in order to eliminate the time‐varying terms without introducing redundant constraints, a quasi‐convex combination method is proposed. Then, compared with the criteria derived via the other inequalities, the conservatism analysis is given to prove the proposed criterion can lead to a better result theoretically. Finally, a numerical example is presented to illustrate the advantage of the presented method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a Bessel-type inequality in semi-inner produce (s.i.p.) spaces is presented to deal with the problem of stability analysis for a class of discrete-time systems with distributed delays. The main purpose of this paper is to obtain less conservative stability conditions for the investigated systems. For this purpose, a novel inequality (which is referred to as Bessel-type inequality in s.i.p. spaces) is constructed by combining the Bessel inequality and a set of polynomials which is pairwise orthogonal in a s.i.p. space. The proposed inequality is more general than the conventional Jensen-type inequality, which is, to the best of our knowledge, the only inequality to deal with the problem of stability analysis for discrete-time systems with distributed delays up to now. Based on the proposed inequality and the Lyapunov-Krasovskii stability theory, a stability condition is presented. Finally, a numerical example is given to indicate that the proposed method is able to effectively reduce the conservatism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: As a kind of organocatalyst, 1-[4-(perfluorooctyl)phenyl]-3-phenylthiourea was employed to the chemoselective oxidation of sulfides in the presence of 30% H2O2. A variety of diaryl, dialkyl, alkyl aryl sulfides could be oxidized to sulfoxide under the mild condition. The catalyst could be easily recovered by fluorous solid-phase extraction for reuse. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A commercially available perfluorooctyl aniline and phenyl isothiocyanate were reacted under mild conditions to give 1-[4-(perfluorooctyl)phenyl]-3-phenylthiourea as an analogue of thiourea-based organocatalyst. This fluorous organocatalyst was successfully employed to direct reductive amination of aldehydes. It could be readily separated from reaction product by fluorous solid phase extraction for direct use. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The separation and purification of stigmasterol and β-sitosterol from phytosterol mixtures by solvent crystallization method was studied based on the difference of the solubility of stigmasterol and β-sitosterol or the difference of solubility with temperature using n-pentanol or cyclohexanone as a solvent. The experimental results showed that the content of β-sitosterol was over 85% after three stages of recrystallization operation in cyclohexanone and the content of stigmasterol was more than 90% after five stages of fractional crystallization operation in n-pentanol or cyclohexanone under the experimental operating conditions. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Objective: The associations between climate variables and diseases such as respiratory infections, influenza, pediatric seizure, and gastroenteritis have been long appreciated. Infection is the main reason for acute otitis media (AOM) incidence. However, few previous studies explored the correlation between climatic parameters and AOM infections. The most important meteorological factors, temperature, relative humidity, and fine particulate matter (PM2.5), were included in this study. We studied the relationship between these meteorological factors and the AOM visits. Materials and Methods: It was a retrospective cross-sectional study. A linear correlation and a linear regression model were used to explore the AOM visits and meteorological factors. Results: A total of 7075 emergency department visits for AOM were identified. Relative humidity was found an independent risk factor for the AOM visits in preschool children (regression coefficient = −10.841<0, P =.039 <.05), but not in infants and school-age children. Average temperature and PM2.5 were not correlated with AOM visits. Conclusion: Humidity may have a significant inverse impact on the incidence of AOM in preschool-age children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To assess awareness and recognition of vestibular function tests in otorhinolaryngology medical staffs, especially the vestibular evoked myogenic potentials (VEMP) testing in patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Methods: A survey was delivered via either email or a social media app. The medical staffs of the Chinese Medical Association of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery from various branches were enrolled. Study data were collected and managed with an online data collection tool. Results: A total of 1781 emails and 623 social media messages were sent to 2404 otorhinolaryngology medical staffs. One hundred and fifty-seven of them participated in the survey, including 24 via emails and 133 via the social media app. Regarding the knowledge of VEMP, only 59 (37.6%) of them agreed that OSA could be related to vertigo/dizziness/imbalance and 28 (17.8%) believed that OSA could result in VEMP abnormalities and would factor this in diagnosing the impairment of the vestibular function of OSA patients. A total of 7.6% of the respondents had never heard of the VEMP tests. Responses regarding the minimum age at which VEMP are possible ranged from younger than 6 months to greater than 18 years of age. Beliefs regarding the utility and reliability of VEMP varied, with 'unsure' being the most frequent response. In addition, only 17.8% of otolaryngologists indicated some access to the VEMP test. Conclusions: Knowledge and beliefs about the role of VEMP in diagnosing otolithic organ dysfunction caused by OSA in otorhinolaryngology vary widely. It is important for otorhinolaryngology medical staffs to learn the latest literatures and updated knowledge through continuing education. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The first report of direct reprogramming fibroblast into inner ear HC lineage. • The current approach is characterized by cell activation and signal direction. • Adult endogenous fibroblast as the reprogramming object is promising in medicine. • There are barriers in adult fibroblast to resist a radical cell fate change. • Activation of FGF signal path is important for the conversion to HC lineage. Loss of inner ear hair cell (HC) is an irreversible process in mammals and is the most common cause of human hearing and balance disorders especially in the elderly. Cell therapy based on highly scalable generation of HC linage and inner ear transplantation is one of the most promising therapeutic approaches for HC impairment. For fibroblast is quite abundant and readily available in human body, it is an ideal endogenous cell source to generate HC lineage for transplantation purpose. In the present study, by using a cell activation and signaling directed method, we demonstrate that adult fibroblast can be direct reprogrammed into a kind of cell which expresses lots of HC markers. At the same time, an intermediate progenitor stage exists during such a lineage conversion and activation of FGF pathway is critical for its formation. Although these reprogrammed cells still lack some of the key features of HC such as mechanosensitive ion channel hence have not acquired the functional properties of HC, the findings reported here raise the possibility of reprogramming endogenous fibroblasts into functional HC for regenerative purpose. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Defective acoustic transmission in the cochlea is closely related with various auditory and vestibular symptoms. Among them, semicircular canal dehiscence (SCD) with a defective semicircular bone is typical. Currently, the pathogenesis of SCD is usually explained by the third window hypothesis; however, this hypothesis fails to explain the variability in the symptoms and signs experienced by superior SCD (SSCD) patients. We evaluated the mechanism of hearing loss in a guinea pig model of bony dehiscence with various sizes and locations along the superior semicircular canal. Auditory brainstem responses (ABRs) and laser Doppler velocimetry were used to measure hearing loss and vibration changes before and after fenestration, as well as after restorative patching. ABR thresholds at low frequencies (e.g., 1000 Hz) increased after fenestration and decreased back to the normal range after we repaired the defect. Energy leakage from the surgically introduced third window was detected in the range of 300–1500 Hz, accompanied by increased vibration at the umbo, stapes head, and the dehiscence site, while decreased vibration was observed at the round window membrane in the same frequency range. After the patching procedure, the deviant vibrations were recovered. The degree of postfenestration energy leakage was proportional to the size of fenestration and the proximity of the fenestration site to the oval window. These results suggest that the bony fenestration of the superior semicircular canal mimics the hearing loss pattern of patients with SSCD. The decrease in perilymph wave impedance likely accounts for the auditory changes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Freshwater planarian flatworm possesses an extraordinary ability to regenerate lost body parts after amputation; it is perfect organism model in regeneration and stem cell biology. Recently, small RNAs have been an increasing concern and studied in many aspects, including regeneration and stem cell biology, among others. In the current study, the large-scale cloning and sequencing of sRNAs from the intact and regenerative planarian Dugesia japonica are reported. Sequence analysis shows that sRNAs between 18nt and 40nt are mainly microRNAs and piRNAs. In addition, 209 conserved miRNAs and 12 novel miRNAs are identified. Especially, a better screening target method, negative-correlation relationship of miRNAs and mRNA, is adopted to improve target prediction accuracy. Similar to miRNAs, a diverse population of piRNAs and changes in the two samples are also listed. The present study is the first to report on the important role of sRNAs during planarian Dugesia japonica regeneration. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Cutaneous neuroendocrine carcinoma (cNEC) is rarely seen in the external ear. In this paper, we newly describe a patient with cNEC in his right external auditory canal, followed by a further discussion on the clinical features, diagnosis, and treatments of cNEC of the external ear. A review of the literature showed that cNEC of the external auditory canal generally presents as asymptomatic and that pathology yields themost confirmative diagnosis. A wide resection with adjuvant radiotherapy and chemotherapy is recommended. The overall prognosis of this condition is poor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• C(sp2)–H bond activation reactions of N -(hetero)aryl-7-azaindoles. • Cross-coupling with α-carbonyl sulfoxonium ylides. • High regioselectivity. • Excellent chemical yields and good functional group tolerance. We described a protocol for rhodium-catalyzed C(sp2)–H bond activation reactions of N- (hetero)aryl-7-azaindoles and cross-coupling with α-carbonyl sulfoxonium ylides. In the C–H activation reaction, the 7-azaindole moiety acts as a directing group, which results in high regioselectivity. The protocol features excellent chemical yields and good functional group tolerance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]