bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhanced assessment of ageing phenomena in steel structures based on materials data and non‐destructive testing
Authors: Boller C. , Starke P.
Published: October 2016

The increasing amount of ageing civil steel infrastructure requests an enhanced assessment of this infrastructure in terms of determining its residual fatigue life in a more realistic way than this has been done in the past. Often the relevant materials data for cyclic loading of such an ageing infrastructure is not available and its retrieval turns out to be relatively cumbersome bearing the urgency in data availability and continuous cost pressure in mind. This article addresses different approaches and techniques on how materials data for cyclic loading can be obtained at a fraction of the effort compared to state‐of‐the‐art techniques, considering load increase tests, non‐destructive testing techniques and finally even a stepped bar specimen allowing a complete set of materials data (stress‐strain behaviour and stress‐ and strain‐life curve) to be obtained with a single specimen in the end only. Options for ’digitizing’ materials data evaluation are discussed and some prospect on application of those novel approaches and techniques in damage accumulation assessments on real steel infrastructure is provided.
Hired to be Fired: The Publicity Value of Managers
Authors: Bradbury John Charles
Published: October 2016

Sports teams frequently fire and hire managers when they experience losing. However, determining managerial responsibility for player performance is difficult to measure. This study examines how major‐league baseball players perform under different managers and estimates that managers have little effect on performance. The study further investigates whether or not replacing managers serves as a signal to fans that the team is improving, which boosts attendance. The results indicate that new managers were associated with increased attendance in the 2000s; however, such effects were not present in the 1980s and 1990s. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The periodic solution bifurcated from homoclinic orbit for coupled ordinary differential equations
Authors: Zhu Changrong , Long Bin
Published: October 2016

We consider the problem of the periodic solutions bifurcated from a homoclinic orbit for a pair of coupled ordinary differential equations in
. Assume that the autonomous system has a degenerate homoclinic solution γ in
. A functional analytic approach is used to consider the existence of periodic solution for the autonomous system with periodic perturbations. By exponential dichotomies and the method of Lyapunov–Schmidt, the bifurcation function defined between two finite dimensional subspaces is obtained, where the zeros correspond to the existence of periodic solutions for the coupled ordinary differential equations near
. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Simultaneous reconstruction of the surface heat flux and the source term in 3D linear parabolic problem by modified conjugate gradient method
Authors: Wang Yuan , Luo Xiaochuan , Song Yuqiao , Xie Qiqi
Published: October 2016

Our work is devoted to an inverse problem for three‐dimensional parabolic partial differential equations. When the surface temperature data are given, the problem of reconstructing the heat flux and the source term is investigated. There are two main contributions of this paper. First, an adjoint problem approach is used for analysis of the Fréchet gradient of the cost functional. Second, an improved conjugate gradient method is proposed to solve this problem. Based on Lipschitz continuity of the gradient, the convergence analysis of the conjugate gradient algorithm is studied. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Weak solutions to the Ginzburg–Landau model in superconductivity with the Coulomb gauge
Authors: Xiao Min , Fan Jishan , Ni Guoxi
Published: October 2016

We first prove the uniqueness of weak solutions (ψ,A) to the 3‐D Ginzburg–Landau model in superconductivity with zero magnetic diffusivity and the Coulomb gauge if
, which is a critical space for some positive constant T. We also prove the global existence of solutions when
and A0∈L3. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Impact of red meat consumption on the metabolome of rats
Authors: Jakobsen Louise M. A. , Yde Christian C. , Van Hecke Thomas , Jessen Randi , Young Jette F. , De Smet Stefaan , Bertram Hanne Christine
Published: October 2016

Scope

The scope of the present study was to investigate the effects of red versus white meat intake on the metabolome of rats.

Methods and results

Twenty‐four male Sprague–Dawley rats were randomly assigned to 15 days of ad libitum feeding of one of four experimental diets: (i) lean chicken, (ii) chicken with lard, (iii) lean beef, and (iv) beef with lard. Urine, feces, plasma, and colon tissue samples were analyzed using 1H NMR‐based metabolomics and real‐time PCR was performed on colon tissue to examine the expression of specific genes. Urinary excretion of acetate and anserine was higher after chicken intake, while carnosine, fumarate, and trimethylamine N‐oxide excretion were higher after beef intake. In colon tissue, higher choline levels and lower lipid levels were found after intake of chicken compared to beef. Expression of the apc gene was higher in response to the lean chicken and beef with lard diets. Correlation analysis revealed that intestinal apc gene expression was correlated with fecal lactate content (R2 = 0.65).

Conclusion

This study is the first to identify specific differences in the metabolome related to the intake of red and white meat. These differences may reflect perturbations in endogenous metabolism that can be linked to the proposed harmful effects associated with intake of red meat.
High resolution MR imaging of pelvic lymph nodes at 7 Tesla
Authors: Philips Bart W. J. , Fortuin Ansje S. , Orzada Stephan , Scheenen Tom W. J. , Maas Marnix C.
Published: October 2016

Purpose

Pelvic lymph node (PLN) metastases are often smaller than 5 mm and difficult to detect. This work presents a method to perform PLN imaging with ultrahigh‐field MRI, using spectrally selective excitation to acquire water and lipid‐selective imaging at high spatial resolution.

Methods

A 3D water‐selective multigradient echo (mGRE) sequence and lipid‐selective gradient echo (GRE) sequence were tested in six healthy volunteers on a 7 Tesla (T) MRI system, using time interleaved acquisition of modes (TIAMO) to improve image homogeneity. The size distribution of the first 10 iliac PLNs detected in each volunteer was determined, and the contrast‐to‐noise ratio (CNR) of these lymph nodes (LNs) was compared with the individual mGRE images, sum‐of‐squares echo addition, and computed
‐weighted images derived from the
fits.

Results

LN imaging was acquired robustly at ultrahigh field with high resolution and homogeneous lipid or water‐selective contrast. PLNs down to 1.5‐mm short axis were detected with mean ± standard error of the mean (SEM) short and long axes of 2.2 ± 0.1 and 3.7 ± 0.2 mm, respectively. Computed
‐weighted imaging allowed flexibility in
contrast while featuring a CNR up to 90% of the sum‐of‐squares echo addition.

Conclusion

Ultrahigh‐field MRI in combination with TIAMO and frequency‐selective excitation enables high‐resolution, large field‐of‐view MRI of the lower abdomen, and may ultimately be suitable for detecting small PLN metastases. Magn Reson Med 78:1020–1028, 2017. © 2016 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.
Vom Großen aufs Kleine schließen
Authors: Crampton Andrew S. , Rötzer Marian D. , Schweinberger Florian F. , Heiz Ueli
Published: October 2016

Gelten Reaktivitätskorrelationen auch für Materie im Subnanometerbereich? Die Antwort geben Platincluster, auf die das Wissen aus größeren Dimensionen angewendet wird. Solche Eigenschaften vorhersagen zu können trägt dazu bei, Metallkatalysatoren zu verstehen und neue zu entwickeln.
Schmerzbehandlung ohne Suchtgefahr
Authors: Groß Michael
Published: October 2016

Opioide sind oft die einzigen Mittel, die starke Schmerzen lindern, doch sie machen auch abhängig. Das führt immer wieder zu Missbrauch und Todesfällen durch Überdosierung. Forscher stehen vor der Aufgabe, neue Wege zu finden, die Kranken helfen, ohne sie in die Sucht zu führen.
Nachkochen? Ist ein Problem!
Authors: Osterath Brigitte
Published: October 2016

In der Veröffentlichung klingt alles so einfach – wer versucht, die Ergebnisse im eigenen Labor nachzuvollziehen, verzweifelt aber häufig. Unreproduzierbarkeit gehört für viele Chemiker zum Alltag. Die Wissenschaftswelt sucht nach Lösungen.
Reach: Analoge Strukturen suchen
Authors: Kunz Erika , Hubesch Bruno
Published: October 2016

Die Open‐Source‐Software Ambit nutzt vorhandene Daten, um auf die Eigenschaften neuer Substanzen zu schließen und so Tests sowie Tierversuche zu minimieren.
Biotech in China: Treibstoffe und Polymere
Authors: Schmid Rolf , Liu Luo
Published: October 2016

Obwohl China große fossile Reserven wie Kohle und Erdgas hat, treibt die Regierung die Bioproduktion voran. Es gibt ausreichende Mengen an Ausgangsstoffen dafür, etwa Stroh, Gülle, Rückstände aus der Forstwirtschaft und Algen.
Die GDCh: ein großes Wir
Authors: Lindhorst Thisbe K.
Published: October 2016

Im Jahr 1867 gründete sich in Berlin die Deutsche Chemische Gesellschaft, die ältere der beiden Vorgängerorganisationen der Gesellschaft Deutscher Chemiker. Doch bei aller Freude über eine große Vergangenheit: Die Herausforderungen für die GDCh liegen im Heute und im Gestalten des Morgens.
Magnetic resonance imaging of ischemic injury produced by varying severities of photothrombosis differs in neonatal and adult brain
Authors: Tuor Ursula I. , Qiao Min , Sule Manasi , Morgunov Melissa , Foniok Tadeusz
Published: October 2016

Stroke is a major cause of disability in adults and children. Recently, we have developed an adult rat model of minor stroke containing a peri‐infarct region with a modest T2 increase and mild ischemic damage. We hypothesized that a neonatal minor stroke with mild peri‐ischemic changes could also be produced, but with potential ontogenic differences. Using our minor photothrombosis method, we produced a range of severities of ischemic lesions (mini, minor, moderate and severe) within magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) slices of adult and neonatal rats. In both age groups, the lesion region showed a marked increase in T2 and diffusion‐weighted intensity and decrease in apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC), corresponding to a cortical infarct detected using fluorojade and hematoxylin and eosin staining. Perilesional regions showed modest increases in T2 and ADC in adults, but not neonates, and this corresponded to scattered cell death, but not necessarily extravasation of plasma protein, i.e. blood–brain barrier disruption. Mini and minor insults in neonates generally showed homogeneous and rather modest changes in T2 and ADC. MR perfusion maps demonstrated a penumbral area of greater hypoperfusion in adults compared with neonates. Together, the results indicate that, in neonatal cortex, a similar severity of photothrombosis occurs throughout the area of photoactivation, whereas, in adult brain, spontaneous clot lysis and/or partial thrombosis occurs adjacent to permanently occluded vessels. Thus, by comparing differing severities of photothrombotic ischemia in neonates and adults, ontogenic differences were detectable using MRI, with mature brain having a greater penumbral region. Mild ischemic injury and scattered cell death in both neonates and adults could be identified by a modest increase in T2 and decrease in ADC. A better understanding of the effects of development on ischemic responses and associated MRI changes will provide a basis for the improved diagnosis of mild or minor ischemic insults relevant to pediatric and adult stroke.
Cross‐sectional investigation of drug‐related problems among adults in a medical center outpatient clinic: application of virtual medicine records in the cloud
Authors: Wang Hue‐Yu , Yeh Ming‐Kung , Ho Chung‐Han , Hu Ming‐Kuan , Huang Yaw‐Bin
Published: October 2016

Purpose

To analyze and characterize data regarding the prevalence and types of outpatient drug‐related problems (DRPs) found by clinical pharmacists after implementation of the Virtual Medicine Record in Cloud System (VMRCS).

Methods

A cross‐sectional study regarding outpatient pharmaceutical care was conducted at a medical center in Taiwan. Patients aged >20 years old with multiple chronic diseases and polypharmacy were enrolled. In Stage I (1 October–31 December 2014), patients received pharmaceutical care according to prescription data accessed online in the VMRCS. In Stage II (1 June–31 August 2015), the VMRCS were pre‐download and arranged to the institute's required format, facilitated DRP detection. Clinical pharmacists then reviewed and evaluated the prescription data through pre‐downloaded VMRCS. Overall, 1539 and 1600 prescriptions were evaluated in these two stages, respectively. DRPs were recorded using the Pharmaceutical Care Network Europe (PCNE)‐DRP.

Results

DRPs were found for 50.2% of patients in Stage I and 55.2% in Stage II (p < 0.05) and were most frequently encountered for “Drugs for the cardiovascular system” and caused by “Inappropriate duplication of therapeutic group or active ingredient.” In terms of problems, incidence of “Unnecessary drug treatment” was highest. Duplicate medications were most frequently seen for “Drugs for acid‐related disorders.” The efficiency to identify DRPs was at least 2.4 times higher with pre‐downloaded prescription data than with real‐time online queries.

Conclusions

With VMRCS, DRPs were more easily identified whether patients received medical care in the same hospital or not. DRPs could be efficiently prevented through the use of pre‐downloaded patient prescription data. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A proteomics view on integrin‐mediated adhesions
Authors: Manninen Aki , Varjosalo Markku
Published: October 2016

Individual cells in multicellular organisms constantly explore their microenvironment, or niche, to obtain spatial information that is used to regulate cell behavior to maintain tissue integrity. The extracellular matrix (ECM) is an important source of such spatial information. Binding of the integrin family receptors to the ECM triggers formation of integrin adhesion complexes (IACs) that link the ECM network to cellular cytoskeleton via remarkably large multiprotein complexes collectively referred to as the integrin adhesome. Recent advances in proteomics have enabled researchers to study the IAC composition in detail. Various biochemical IAC isolation methods and culture conditions have been employed to study the composition and dynamics of integrin‐mediated adhesions mainly in fibroblasts and lymphoblasts. These studies have led to identification of daunting lists of potential IAC components. This review focuses on the current status of proteomics‐driven research seeking to understand integrin functions by comprehensive analysis of IAC components. These systems level approaches have revealed the complexity of biochemical and biomechanical signals that are processed at IACs and provide a novel insight into how these signals are conveyed to regulate cellular behavior.
Target identification with quantitative activity based protein profiling (ABPP)
Authors: Chen Xiao , Wong Yin Kwan , Wang Jigang , Zhang Jianbin , Lee Yew‐Mun , Shen Han‐Ming , Lin Qingsong , Hua Zi‐Chun
Published: October 2016

As many small bioactive molecules fulfill their functions through interacting with protein targets, the identification of such targets is crucial in understanding their mechanisms of action (MOA) and side effects. With technological advancements in target identification, it has become possible to accurately and comprehensively study the MOA and side effects of small molecules. While small molecules with therapeutic potential were derived solely from nature in the past, the remodeling and synthesis of such molecules have now been made possible. Presently, while some small molecules have seen successful application as drugs, the majority remain undeveloped, requiring further understanding of their MOA and side effects to fully tap into their potential. Given the typical promiscuity of many small molecules and the complexity of the cellular proteome, a high‐flux and high‐accuracy method is necessary. While affinity chromatography approaches combined with MS have had successes in target identification, limitations associated with nonspecific results remain. To overcome these complications, quantitative chemical proteomics approaches have been developed including metabolic labeling, chemical labeling, and label‐free methods. These new approaches are adopted in conjunction with activity‐based protein profiling (ABPP), allowing for a rapid process and accurate results. This review will briefly introduce the principles involved in ABPP, then summarize current advances in quantitative chemical proteomics approaches as well as illustrate with examples how ABPP coupled with quantitative chemical proteomics has been used to detect the targets of drugs and other bioactive small molecules including natural products.
Recent approaches in designing bioadhesive materials inspired by mussel adhesive protein
Authors: Kord Forooshani Pegah , Lee Bruce P.
Published: October 2016

Marine mussels secret protein‐based adhesives, which enable them to anchor to various surfaces in a saline, intertidal zone. Mussel foot proteins (Mfps) contain a large abundance of a unique, catecholic amino acid, Dopa, in their protein sequences. Catechol offers robust and durable adhesion to various substrate surfaces and contributes to the curing of the adhesive plaques. In this article, we review the unique features and the key functionalities of Mfps, catechol chemistry, and strategies for preparing catechol‐functionalized polymers. Specifically, we reviewed recent findings on the contributions of various features of Mfps on interfacial binding, which include coacervate formation, surface drying properties, control of the oxidation state of catechol, among other features. We also summarized recent developments in designing advanced biomimetic materials including coacervate‐forming adhesives, mechanically improved nano‐ and micro‐composite adhesive hydrogels, as well as smart and self‐healing materials. Finally, we review the applications of catechol‐functionalized materials for the use as biomedical adhesives, therapeutic applications, and antifouling coatings. © 2016 The Authors. Journal of Polymer Science Part A: Polymer Chemistry Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2017, 55, 9–33
Polymers with alternating anthracene and phenylene building blocks linked by ethynylene and/or vinylene units: Studying structure‐properties‐relationships
Authors: Boudiba Sameh , Růžička Aleš , Ulbricht Christoph , Enengl Sandra , Enengl Christina , Gasiorowski Jacek , Yumusak Cigdem , Pokorná Veronika , Výprachtický Drahomír , Hingerl Kurt , Zahn Dietrich R. T. , Tinti Francesca , Camaioni Nadia , Bouguessa Sabrina , Gouasmia Abdelkrim , Cimrová Věra , Ayuk Mbi Egbe Daniel
Published: October 2016

Four conjugated polymers (P1–P4) consisting of alternating anthracene‐9,10‐diyl and 1,4‐phenylene building blocks connected via ethynylene as well as vinylene (P1 and P2), ethynylene‐only (P3), and vinylene‐only (P4) moieties, respectively, were synthesized and studied. The phenylene units in all four polymers bear 2‐ethylhexyloxy side‐chains to promote good solubility. The three polymers with vinylene units (P1, P2, and P4) were prepared using the Horner–Wadsworth–Emmons reaction. For the synthesis of the arylene‐ethynylene polymer P3, the palladium‐catalyzed Sonogashira cross‐coupling reaction was used. The polymers were characterized by NMR, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and Raman spectroscopy. Photophysical, absorption and photoluminescence, and electrochemical properties were studied. Spectroscopic ellipsometry measurements were performed to gain more insight on the optical properties. In addition, the transport properties were investigated using admittance spectroscopy. The bulk hole mobility and its dependence on the electric field were evaluated for P1 and P2. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2017, 55, 129–143
Radical‐medicated end‐group transformation of amphiphilic methacrylate random copolymers for modulation of antimicrobial and hemolytic activities
Authors: Nadres Enrico T. , Takahashi Haruko , Kuroda Kenichi
Published: October 2016

This work describes synthesis of antimicrobial methacrylate copolymers by reversible addition‐fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization and examines the versatility of this approach for improving chemical optimization to create potent, non‐toxic antimicrobial polymers. Specifically, this study focuses on the radical‐mediated transformation of end group of antimicrobial peptide‐mimetic polymer. RAFT polymerization using 2‐cyano‐2‐yl‐dithiobenzoate provided a statistical methacrylate copolymer consisting of aminobutyl and ethyl groups in the side chains. The following radical‐mediated modification using free radical initiators successfully transformed the ω‐end group of parent copolymer from dithiobenzoate to a cyanoisobutyl or aminoethyl cyanopentanoate group without any significant changes to the polymer molecular weight. In general, the parent polymer and variants showed a broad spectrum of activity against a panel of bacteria, but low hemolytic activity against human red blood cells. The parent copolymer with the dithiobenzoate end‐group showed highest antimicrobial and hemolytic activities as compared with other copolymers. The copolymers caused membrane depolarization in Staphylococcus aureus, while the ability of copolymers for membrane disruption is not dependent on the end‐group structures. The synthetic route reported in this study will be useful for further study of the role of polymer end‐groups in the antimicrobial activity of copolymers. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2017, 55, 304–312
Emotion regulation and emotional distress: The mediating role of hope on reappraisal and anxiety/depression in newly diagnosed cancer patients
Authors: Peh Chao Xu , Liu Jianlin , Bishop George D. , Chan Hui Yu , Chua Shi Min , Kua Ee Heok , Mahendran Rathi
Published: October 2016

Purpose

A proportion of newly diagnosed cancer patients may experience anxiety and depression. Emotion suppression has been associated with poorer psychoemotional outcomes, whereas reappraisal may be an adaptive emotion regulation strategy. Few studies have examined potential mechanisms linking reappraisal to psychoemotional outcomes in cancer patients. This study aims to replicate findings on reappraisal and suppression and further examines if hope mediates the association between reappraisal and anxiety/depression in patients newly diagnosed with cancer.

Methods

Participants were 144 adult cancer patients (65.3% female, mean age = 48.96 years, SD = 9.23). Patients completed a set of study questionnaires, including the Emotion Regulation Questionnaire, Adult Hope Scale, and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale. Path analysis was used to examine if hope mediated the association between reappraisal and anxiety/depression.

Results

Prevalence of anxiety was 39.6% and depression was 25.0%. Reappraisal and hope were correlated with lower anxiety and depression, whereas suppression was correlated with higher anxiety and depression. The hypothesized mediation model provided fit to the data, comparative fit index = 0.95, Tucker‐Lewis index = 0.94, root‐mean‐square‐error of approximation = 0.05. There was a significant indirect effect of reappraisal on anxiety and depression via hope, b = −0.95, SE = 0.42, 95% confidence interval = −1.77 to −0.12, whereas the direct effect of reappraisal was nonsignificant.

Conclusion

The study findings suggest that hope mediated the association between reappraisal and anxiety/depression outcomes. Moreover, the high prevalence of anxiety and depression implies a need for healthcare providers to attend to the psychoemotional needs of newly diagnosed cancer patients.
Thirteen years of invasive and noninvasive home ventilation for children in a developing country: A retrospective study
Authors: Nathan Anna Marie , Loo Hui Yan , de Bruyne Jessie Anne , Eg Kah Peng , Kee Sze Ying , Thavagnanam Surendran , Bouniu Marilyn , Wong Jiat Earn , Gan Chin Seng , Lum Lucy Chai See
Published: October 2016

Introduction

Home ventilation (HV) for children is growing rapidly worldwide. The aim was to describe (1) the sociodemographic characteristics of children on HV and (2) the indications for, means and outcome of initiating HV in children from a developing country.

Methodology

This retrospective study included patients sent home on noninvasive or invasive ventilation, over 13 years, by the pediatric respiratory unit in a single center. Children who declined treatment were excluded.

Results

Seventy children were initiated on HV: 85.7% on noninvasive ventilation, 14.3% on invasive ventilation. There was about a threefold increase from 2001–2008 (n = 18) to 2009–2014 (n = 52). Median (range) age of initiating HV was 11 (1–169) months and 73% of children were <2 years old. Common indications for HV were respiratory (57.2%), chest/spine anomalies (11.4%), and neuromuscular (10.0%). Fifty‐two percent came off their devices with a median (interquartile range) usage duration of 12 (4.8, 21.6) months. Ten children (14.3%) died with one avoidable death. Children with neuromuscular disease were less likely to come off their ventilator (0.0%) compared to children with respiratory disease (62.1%). Forty‐one percent of parents bought their equipment, whereas 58.6% borrowed their equipment from the medical social work department and other sources.

Conclusion

HV in a resource‐limited country is possible. Children with respiratory disease made up a significant proportion of those requiring HV and were more likely to be weaned off. The mortality rate was low. The social work department played an important role in facilitating early discharge. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2017;52:500–507. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Halotherapy as asthma treatment in children: A randomized, controlled, prospective pilot study
Authors: Bar‐Yoseph Ronen , Kugelman Nir , Livnat Galit , Gur Michal , Hakim Fahed , Nir Vered , Bentur Lea
Published: October 2016

Background and Objectives

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disorder requiring intermittent or continuous anti‐inflammatory therapy. Patients often turn to alternative treatments as complements or replacements to conventional treatments. We aimed to evaluate the effect of salt room chambers (halotherapy) on bronchial hyper‐responsiveness (BHR), fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO), and quality of life in children with asthma.

Patients and Methods

Children aged 5–13 years with a clinical diagnosis of mild asthma not receiving anti‐inflammatory therapy. Patients were randomized in this double‐blind, controlled study to salt room with halogenerator (treatment group), or without halogenerator (control group). We evaluated the effect of salt room therapy on BHR, FeNO, spirometry, and pediatric asthma quality of life questionnaire (PAQLQ). The treatment period lasted 7 weeks, 14 sessions.

Results

Twenty‐nine patients were randomized to the salt room with halogenerator (treatment group), and 26 patients to the salt room without salt halogenerator (control group). A statistically significant improvement in BHR was demonstrated in the treatment group, which remained unchanged in the control group. There was no improvement in spirometry or FeNO levels following treatment. The treatment group showed a statistical improvement in most parameters of quality of life questionnaires.

Conclusions

Our pilot study suggests that salt room with halogenerator, may have some beneficial effects in mild asthmatic children. Randomized and larger controlled trials with long‐term follow‐up are necessary. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2017;52:580–587. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Recent Developments for Prediction of Power of Aromatic and Non‐Aromatic Energetic Materials along with a Novel Computer Code for Prediction of Their Power
Authors: Keshavarz Mohammad Hossein , Azarniamehraban Jamshid , Atabak Hamidreza Hafizi , Ferdowsi Mohammad
Published: October 2016

The explosive power or strength of an energetic material shows its capacity for doing useful work. This work reviews recent developments for prediction of power of energetic compounds. A new user‐friendly computer code is also introduced to predict the relative power of a desired energetic compound as compared to 2,4,6‐trinitrotoluene (TNT). It is based on the best available methods, which can be used for different types of energetic compounds including nitroaromatics, nitroaliphatics, nitramines, and nitrate esters. The computed relative powers are consistent with the measured data for some new materials containing complex molecular structures.
Detector's quantum backaction effects on a mesoscopic conductor and fluctuation‐dissipation relation
Authors: Magazzù Luca , Valenti Davide , Spagnolo Bernardo , Martin Thierry , Falci Giuseppe , Paladino Elisabetta
Published: October 2016

When measuring quantum mechanical properties of charge transport in mesoscopic conductors, backaction effects occur. We consider a measurement setup with an elementary quantum circuit, composed of an inductance and a capacitor, as detector of the current flowing in a nearby quantum point contact. A quantum Langevin equation for the detector variable including backaction effects is derived. Differences with the quantum Langevin equation obtained in linear response are pointed out. In this last case, a relation between fluctuations and dissipation is obtained, provided that an effective temperature of the quantum point contact is defined.
Activation of UPR Signaling Pathway is Associated With the Malignant Progression and Poor Prognosis in Prostate Cancer
Authors: Liu Junnan , Xiao Maolin , Li Jianjun , Wang Delin , He Yunfeng , He Jiang , Gao Fei , Mai Li , Li Ying , Liang Yong , Liu Yuejiang , Zhong Xiaoni
Published: October 2016

BACKGROUND

Currently, the role of UPR signaling in prostate cancer (PCa) is unclear. To evaluate the relationship between UPR signaling pathway and the prognosis of PCa, we explored the expression of IRE1, PERK, and ATF6 in tissues.

METHODS

A total of 160 PCa and 30 benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH) tissues were collected. The expression of UPR signaling factors was assessed by immunohistochemistry. The staining characteristics were identified and evaluated for associations with clinicopathologic parameters, PSA recurrence survival, and prostate cancer‐specific morality.

RESULTS

The expressions of ATF6α, PERK, and IRE1α were significantly associated with Gleason grade, PSA level, T stages and M stage, while this association was not significant in N stage. Additionally, UPR signaling factors expressed correlatively with each other. In further studies, high expression level of UPR signaling factors was usually detected in patients who suffered poor prognosis. Patients with positive UPR signaling factors meet shorter survival duration both on cancer‐specific morality and PSA recurrence. Multivariate analysis showed that IRE1α (HR = 4.461 95%CI = 1.270–15.670 P = 0.020) could be a potential factor in predicting PSA recurrence independently.

CONCLUSIONS

UPR signaling factors were co‐activated and activation of UPR signaling was implicated to the malignant progression and worse prognosis of PCa. The mechanism and function of UPR signaling in PCa are still to be determined. Prostate 77:274–281, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The treatment challenges of restless legs syndrome
Authors: Gangadharan Sanjay , Perkins Lauren , Sauerbier Anna , Chaudhuri K Ray
Published: October 2016

Restless legs syndrome is a common disorder characterised by the uncontrollable urge to move the legs, particularly during inactivity or rest. Although the condition is common and has a high impact on quality of life, diagnosis and appropriate management remain a challenge in the primary care setting.
Improving the efficiency of out‐of‐hours prescribing
Authors: Dowden Angela
Published: October 2016

GP out‐of‐hours services are part of a complex system of care available to patients when their GP surgery is closed and they urgently need a prescription. This article discusses how efficiency could be increased by improving integration of services and transfer of patient information, as well as educating patients about how to make optimal use of the services available.
Safinamide: add‐on therapy for Parkinson's disease
Authors: Chaplin Steve
Published: October 2016

Safinamide (Xadago) was launched in the UK in May for the treatment of adults with idiopathic Parkinson's disease as add‐on therapy to levodopa in mid‐ to latestage fluctuating patients. This article describes its mode of action, efficacy and adverse effects.
Si and Ge nanocrystals in resonator multilayer structures
Authors: Grachev D. A. , Ershov A. V. , Belolipetsky A. V. , Krasilnikova L. V. , Yablonskiy A. N. , Andreev B. A. , Gusev O. B.
Published: October 2016

We have produced optical planar resonators with an oxide layer (SiO2, Al2O3, ZrO2, HfO2) containing Ge or Si nanocrystals as an active medium, which was placed between two Bragg mirrors. Samples have been obtained by vacuum physical deposition on silicon substrates and subsequent annealing of the active medium. Stationary and nanosecond time‐resolved photoluminescence spectra have been measured in the range of 1.4–2.5 eV at room temperature. We have observed strong enhancement of the photoluminescence signal by 5 and 100 times for the Si and Ge nanocrystals placed in the microcavities at 1.7 and 1.8 eV, respectively. This was accompanied by a significant reduction of the photoluminescence decay time which is a proof of the Purcell effect. It has been found out that the oxide environment weakly affects the optical features of the resonators.
Dynamic characteristics of 20‐layer stacked QD‐SOA with strain compensation technique by ultrafast signals using optical frequency comb
Authors: Matsumoto Atsushi , Akahane Kouich , Sakamoto Takahide , Umezawa Toshimasa , Kanno Atsushi , Yamamoto Naokatsu
Published: October 2016

In this article, we evaluated the static and dynamic characteristics of 20‐layer stacked quantum dot semiconductor optical amplifiers (QD‐SOAs) grown on an InP(311)B substrate with a strain compensation technique by ultrafast signals using an optical frequency comb. The gain peak wavelength of the fabricated QD‐SOA was 1520 nm, and a maximum gain of approximately 15.8 dB was obtained when the injection current was 350 mA. By using optical bit rate multiplier modules, an optical pulse, which was generated by the use of the optical frequency comb, was multiplexed. We observed the dynamic behavior of the QD‐SOA with the pulse trains. The minimum interval between pulses was 4.2 ps, and we measured using an optical sampling oscilloscope. It was found the QD‐SOA could respond to ultrafast pulses that were equivalent to the signals of 220 Gb s−1 class speed without any large pattern distortions. In addition, we could obtain a rather clear optical pulse waveform. We also estimated the gain recovery time of the QD‐SOA to be 6.0 ps by using a pump probe‐like method. One of the reasons that the fabricated QD‐SOA could respond to ultrafast signals was its ultrashort gain recovery time.
A 10 year fog and low stratus climatology for Europe based on Meteosat Second Generation data
Authors: Egli S. , Thies B. , Drönner J. , Cermak J. , Bendix J.
Published: October 2016

Due to the significant impact of fog and low stratus (FLS) on economy, ecology and traffic systems, there is a growing demand for high‐resolution information on FLS occurrence. In this study, a baseline climatology of FLS h day−1 based on data recorded from 2006–2015 by the Spinning Enhanced Visible and Infrared Imager system (SEVIRI) aboard the Meteosat Second Generation satellites is computed for Europe to provide the requested information. It is the first 10 year, spatially explicit climatology for FLS based on data with a temporal resolution of 15 min. The dataset is validated against Meteorological Aviation Routine Weather Reports (METAR) and shows good accordance with an average Heidke Skill Score of 0.45. Temporal and spatial variations in FLS frequency as well as interannual trends are analyzed. Winter shows the highest FLS occurrence, but a general decrease over the investigated period. Spring, summer and autumn show less pronounced trends and lower average FLS frequencies. Possible reasons for these distributions are discussed.
Tailoring Pore Structure of Ultralight Electrospun Sponges by Solid Templating
Authors: Deuber Fabian , Mousavi Sara , Hofer Marco , Adlhart Christian
Published: October 2016

Freeze‐casted nanofiber based sponges or aerogels exhibit a hierarchical porous structure. Pore formation is only partially understood. Therefore, we studied the underlying solid templating mechanism. We were able to tailor the secondary pore size between 9.5 and 123 μm while retaining the smaller primary pores known from electrospun nanofiber membranes. To understand the effect of microstructure on the sponges’ bulk properties, mass flow through the pores and interaction with the sponges’ internal surface were investigated. By solely altering the sponges’ microstructure we indeed found tunability in permeability by a factor 7 and in filtration efficiency by a factor of 220. Hence, pore architecture of nanofiber based sponges is a key element for their performance. The selected pullulan/PVA polymer blends and aqueous electrospinning conditions are benign and allow the facile adaptation of these ultralight highly porous sponges for a large number of applications.
Facile and Green Production of Impurity‐Free Aqueous Solutions of WS2 Nanosheets by Direct Exfoliation in Water
Authors: Pan Long , Liu Yi‐Tao , Xie Xu‐Ming , Ye Xiong‐Ying
Published: October 2016

To obtain 2D materials with large quantity, low cost, and little pollution, liquid‐phase exfoliation of their bulk form in water is a particularly fascinating concept. However, the current strategies for water‐borne exfoliation exclusively employ stabilizers, such as surfactants, polymers, or inorganic salts, to minimize the extremely high surface energy of these nanosheets and stabilize them by steric repulsion. It is worth noting, however, that the remaining impurities inevitably bring about adverse effects to the ultimate performances of 2D materials. Here, a facile and green route to large‐scale production of impurity‐free aqueous solutions of WS2 nanosheets is reported by direct exfoliation in water. Crucial parameters such as initial concentration, sonication time, centrifugation speed, and centrifugation time are systematically evaluated to screen out an optimized condition for scaling up. Statistics based on morphological characterization prove that substantial fraction (66%) of the obtained WS2 nanosheets are one to five layers. X‐ray diffraction and Raman characterizations reveal a high quality with few, if any, structural distortions. The water‐borne exfoliation route opens up new opportunities for easy, clean processing of WS2‐based film devices that may shine in the fields of, e.g., energy storage and functional nanocomposites owing to their excellent electrochemical, mechanical, and thermal properties.
A simplification of a real‐time verification problem
Authors: Roy Suman , Misra Janardan , Saha Indranil
Published: October 2016

We revisit the problem of real‐time verification with dense‐time dynamics using timeout and calendar‐based models and simplify this to a finite state verification problem. We introduce a specification formalism for these models and capture their behaviour in terms of semantics of timed transition systems. We discuss a technique, which reduces the problem of verification of qualitative temporal properties on infinite state space of a large fragment of these timeout and calender‐based transition systems into that on clock‐less finite state models through a two‐step process comprising of digitization and finitary reduction. This technique enables us to verify safety invariants for real‐time systems using finite state model checking avoiding the complexity of infinite state (bounded) model checking and scale up models without applying techniques from induction‐based proof methodology. In the same manner, we verify timeliness properties. Moreover, we can verify liveness for real‐time systems, which are not possible by using induction with infinite state model checkers. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Building a type‐2 fuzzy regression model based on credibility theory and its application on arbitrage pricing theory
Authors: Wei Yicheng , Watada Junzo
Published: October 2016

Type‐2 (T2) fuzzy set was introduced to model vagueness associated with primary membership function of type‐1 (T1) fuzzy set. While it was invented to handle more fuzzy information, there are only a few algorithms (models) to deal with data in the form of T2 fuzzy variables given their three‐dimensional features. To solve the problem, we define the expected value of a T2 fuzzy variable using credibility theory in this paper. And by substituting the expected value for the original T2 fuzzy set, the vertical uncertainties of data are transferred to horizontal ones without much distortion of information. Calculations between three‐dimensional T2 fuzzy sets are thus transferred to two‐dimensional range calculations between T1 fuzzy sets. Based on that principle, we also build a T2 fuzzy expected regression model and apply it to the arbitrage pricing theory. © 2016 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Global Employment and Social Trends
Authors:   Research Department
Published: October 2016

The global economy is showing new signs of weakness…

The world economy is estimated to have expanded by 3.1 per cent in 2015, over half a percentage point less than had been projected a year earlier. If current policy responses are maintained, the outlook is for continued economic weakening, posing significant challenges to enterprises and workers. Indeed, over the next two years, the world economy is projected to grow by only around 3 per cent, significantly less than before the advent of the global crisis.

The continuing slowdown in economic growth is being driven by weakness in emerging and developing countries. China is facing a pronounced slowdown. This, combined with other factors, has contributed to a steep decline in commodity prices, particularly those related to energy. This situation has, in turn, affected large emerging economy commodity exporters, such as Brazil and the Russian Federation, which have entered a period of recession. The benefits accruing to net commodity importers have been insufficient to offset the decline affecting exporters. Another sign of economic weakness is the fact that global trade, which had typically expanded twice as fast as the global economy, is now growing in line with or at a lower rate than global growth.
Comparison of Suicidal People Who Use the Internet for Suicide-Related Reasons and Those Who Do Not
Authors: Niederkrotenthaler Thomas , Haider Anna , Till Benedikt , Mok Katherine , Pirkis Jane
Published: October 2016

Abstract. Background: Studies have shown that suicidal individuals who use the Internet for suicide-related purposes are more suicidal than nonsuicide-related users, but evidence from European countries is lacking. Aims: We assessed differences between suicidal individuals who go online for suicide-related purposes and other suicidal individuals in Austria. Method: Participants were 53 individuals aged between 18 and 24 years who felt suicidal in the past year and completed an anonymous online survey. Results: Individuals who went online for suicide-related purposes were more suicidal, and more depressed, compared with individuals who did not use the Internet for suicide-related purposes. There were no large differences with regard to social anxiety and perceived barriers for help-seeking between the two groups. Conclusion: This study finds that suicidal online users are more depressed and suicidal than nonusers in a sample from Central Europe. Online interventions to combat depression and suicidality need to be strengthened to reach out to this important target population.
Duvall Receives 2016 Luna B. Leopold Young Scientist Award
Authors:   AGU
Published: October 2016

Alison R. Duvall will receive the 2016 Luna B. Leopold Young Scientist Award at the 2016 American Geophysical Union Fall Meeting, to be held 12–16 December in San Francisco, Calif. The award recognizes "a young scientist for making a significant and outstanding contribution that advances the field of Earth and planetary surface processes."
Liver ubiquitome uncovers nutrient-stress-mediated trafficking and secretion of complement C3
Authors: Magliarelli Helena de Fatima , Matondo Mariette , Mészáros Gergő , Goginashvili Alexander , Erbs Eric , Zhang Zhirong , Mihlan Michael , Wolfrum Christian , Aebersold Ruedi , Sumara Izabela , Ricci Romeo
Published: October 2016

Adaptation to changes in nutrient availability is crucial for cells and organisms. Posttranslational modifications of signaling proteins are very dynamic and are therefore key to promptly respond to nutrient deprivation or overload. Herein we screened for ubiquitylation of proteins in the livers of fasted and refed mice using a comprehensive systemic proteomic approach. Among 1641 identified proteins, 117 were differentially ubiquitylated upon fasting or refeeding. Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and secretory proteins were enriched in the livers of refed mice in part owing to an ER-stress-mediated response engaging retro-translocation and ubiquitylation of proteins from the ER. Complement C3, an innate immune factor, emerged as the most prominent ER-related hit of our screen. Accordingly, we found that secretion of C3 from the liver and primary hepatocytes as well as its dynamic trafficking are nutrient dependent. Finally, obese mice with a chronic nutrient overload show constitutive trafficking of C3 in the livers despite acute changes in nutrition, which goes in line with increased C3 levels and low-grade inflammation reported for obese patients. Our study thus suggests that nutrient sensing in the liver is coupled to release of C3 and potentially its metabolic and inflammatory functions.