bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A method for the direct estimation of floor acceleration spectra for elastic and inelastic MDOF structures
Authors: Vukobratović Vladimir , Fajfar Peter
Published: July 2016

This paper deals with floor acceleration spectra, which are used for the seismic design and assessment of acceleration‐sensitive equipment installed in buildings. In design codes and in practice, not enough attention has been paid to the seismic resistance of such equipment. An ‘accurate’ determination of floor spectra requires a complex and quite demanding dynamic response history analysis. The purpose of the study presented in this paper is the development of a direct method for the determination of floor acceleration spectra, which enables their generation directly from the design spectrum of the structure, by taking into account the structure's dynamic properties. The method is also applicable to inelastic structures, which can greatly improve the economic aspects of equipment design. A parametric study of floor acceleration spectra for elastic and inelastic single‐degree‐of‐freedom (SDOF) and multiple‐degree‐of‐freedom structures was conducted by using (non)linear response history analysis. The equipment was modelled as an elastic single‐degree‐of‐freedom system. The proposed method was validated by comparing the results obtained with the more accurate results obtained in a parametric study. Due to its simplicity, the method is an appropriate tool for practice. In the case of inelastic structural behaviour, the method should be used in combination with the N2 method, or another appropriate method for simplified nonlinear structural analysis. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
5G‐Crosshaul: An SDN/NFV control and data plane architecture for the 5G integrated Fronthaul/Backhaul
Authors: González Sergio , de la Oliva Antonio , Costa‐Pérez Xavier , Di Giglio Andrea , Cavaliere Fabio , Deiß Thomas , Li Xi , Mourad Alain
Published: July 2016

This paper presents the control and data plane architecture design for a 5G transport solution (5G‐Crosshaul) with the aim of integrating the fronthaul and backhaul network segments in a common transport stratum. The control plane relies on the Software‐defined networking/Network Functions Virtualization concept to control and orchestrate the different elements of the network (the 5G‐Crosshaul control infrastructure). The data plane is based on an mixed optical/packet‐based forwarding entity (the 5G‐Crosshaul forwarding element) that leverages the benefits of optical passthrough with the statistical multiplexing of packet‐based transmission, working on top of a common frame format for both, fronthaul, and backhaul traffic (the 5G‐Crosshaul common frame). In addition to the main architecture design, this work includes the impact of providing multi‐tenancy support into the architecture of the overall system, in order to share the costs of building and operating the infrastructure among different operators.

This architecture opens the 5G transport network as a service for innovative network applications on top (such as multi‐tenancy, and resource management), provisioning the required network and IT resources in a flexible, cost‐effective, and abstract manner. The proposed design supports the concept of network slicing pushed by the industry for realizing a truly flexible, sharable, and cost‐effective future 5G system. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Das Beste aus beiden Welten
Authors: Bienert Hans‐Dieter
Published: July 2016

Enthusiastisch aufgenommen, präsentiert das Metropolitan Museum of Art zusammen mit den Staatlichen Museen zu Berlin und weiteren führenden Forschungsmuseen in New York die Schätze der hellenistischen Welt. Mit dabei auch die DFG — als Förderin zahlreicher Ausgrabungsprojekte und Ko‐Veranstalterin eines wissenschaftlichen Begleitsymposiums.
Junge Zielgruppe im Blick
Authors: Straub Christoph
Published: July 2016

„KlimaTaucher”︁: Ganz multimedial zeigt die DFG im Wissenschaftsjahr 2016*17, wie die Meeresforschung zum Verständnis des Klimawandels beiträgt / Beispiel Bangladesch
Welches Europa wir wollen
Authors: Strohschneider Peter
Published: July 2016

Geht es um Europa, so dürfen Forschungspolitik und ‐förderung nicht jenen Denkmustern verfallen, die derzeit auf dem Kontinent um sich greifen. Forschung und Innovation für ein zukunftsfähiges Europa sind nicht auf ökonomistischen Reduktionismus, sondern allein auf Pluralismus und Freiheit zu gründen.
Hydroxycinnamic acids in cooked potato tubers from Solanum tuberosum group Phureja
Authors: Piñeros‐Niño Clara , Narváez‐Cuenca Carlos‐Eduardo , Kushalappa Ajjamada C. , Mosquera Teresa
Published: July 2016

Hydroxycinnamic acids are phenolic compounds and are considered to have health promotion properties due to their antioxidant activity. Potato tubers of 113 genotypes of Solanum tuberosum group Phureja belonging to the Colombian Central Collection, landraces of potatoes, and commercial cultivars were evaluated for their hydroxycinnamic acids content. The composition of these compounds was analyzed using cooked tubers in two different agro‐climatic conditions. The genotypes were analyzed for chlorogenic acid, neo‐chlorogenic acid, crypto‐chlorogenic acid, and caffeic acid by ultrahigh‐performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC). Chlorogenic acid was the major representative and varied between 0.77 to 7.98 g kg−1 DW (dry weight) followed by crypto‐chlorogenic acid (from 0.09 to 1.50 g kg−1 DW). Under moorland agro‐climatic conditions even though the chlorogenic acid levels increased with respect to flatland agro‐climatic conditions, the related isomer neo‐chlorogenic acid decreased as compared to flatland conditions. The correlation between chlorogenic acid with the isomers, and with caffeic acid was positive. This study demonstrated that there is a wide variation in hydroxycinnamic acids contents in the germplasm studied, which can be exploited in breeding programs to contribute to human health.
Efficacy, outcomes, and complication rates of different surgical and nonsurgical treatment modalities for recurrent/residual oropharyngeal carcinoma: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Jayaram Sharan Chakkyath , Muzaffar Sayed Jameel , Ahmed Ikhlaaq , Dhanda Jagtar , Paleri Vinidh , Mehanna Hisham
Published: July 2016

Background

Treatment of recurrent oropharyngeal cancer is widely thought to have poor outcomes. Justification for treatment, especially in advanced cases, can be difficult.

Methods

A systematic search of MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane databases was conducted. Included studies reported specific recurrent oropharyngeal cancer survival data.

Results

Twenty‐two retrospective studies were included. Pooled 3‐year overall survival (OS) was 26% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 22% to 29%; I squared = 40.7%;p= .057). Pooled 5‐year OS was 23% (95% CI = 20% to 27%; I squared = 73.9%;p= .000). Surgical treatment was superior to radiation (5‐year OS 26% vs 16%, respectively;p< .001). The 5‐year OS improved over time: 18% in the pre‐2000 cohort; 35% in the mixed pre‐2000 and post‐2000 group; and 51% in the post‐2000 cohort (p< .001).

Conclusion

Outcomes have improved considerably over the last 2 decades, resulting in approximately 50% overall 5‐year survival. Human papillomavirus (HPV) status, patient selection, and improvements in care may explain this. © 2016 The Authors Head & Neck Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.Head Neck, 2016 © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.Head Neck38:1855–1861, 2016
How well can the subsurface storage–discharge relation be interpreted and predicted using the geometric factors in headwater areas?
Authors: Liu Jintao , Han Xiaole , Chen Xi , Lin Henry , Wang Aihua
Published: July 2016

Headwater storage–discharge (S–Q) remains one of the least understood processes, and there is renewed interest in the S–Q relation. How well can the S–Q relation be interpreted mechanistically using geometric factors? In this paper, the hillslope storage Boussinesq and hillslope storage kinematic wave equation were adopted to guide the theoretical derivations. Analytical solutions were derived based on the hsKW equation for nine idealized hillslope aquifers, which were subdivided into two groups, i.e. hillslope aquifers with exponential hillslope width function (C1) and hillslope aquifers with Gaussian hillslope width function (C2). We found that analytical expressions of the S–Q relation can be derived for C1 hillslope aquifers. For more compound hillslope aquifers, i.e. C2, no explicit S–Q relation can be obtained. The whole subsurface recession after a rainstorm is simulated by applying the initial saturation condition. We found that the simulated S–Q processes can be characterized by a two‐phase recession, i.e. quick and slow recession. The time (tb) at the dividing point of the quick and slow recessions depends on the geometric factors, such as the plan and profile curvature. In the quick recession for C1, many of the S–Q curves can be described as linear or quasi‐linear functions, which indicate that linear reservoir models can be applied approximately for recession simulations. However, during the slow recession phase of C1 and during the whole recession of C2, the S–Q relations are highly non‐linear. Finally, we compared the hillslope storage kinematic wave and hillslope storage Boussinesq models for simulating subsurface water recession after a rainstorm event in a real‐world headwater catchment (G5) in China. Through comparison of the recession slope curves, we found that the simulated results of the models employing the Gaussian hillslope width function match the observed hydrograph. The results indicated that appropriate organization of the hillslope geometric factors enhances our ability to make S–Q predictions. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Background radiation and childhood leukemia: A nationwide register‐based case‐control study
Authors: Nikkilä Atte , Erme Sini , Arvela Hannu , Holmgren Olli , Raitanen Jani , Lohi Olli , Auvinen Anssi
Published: July 2016

High doses of ionizing radiation are an established cause of childhood leukemia. However, substantial uncertainty remains about the effect of low doses of radiation, including background radiation and potential differences between genetic subgroups of leukemia have rarely been explored. We investigated the effect of the background gamma radiation on childhood leukemia using a nationwide register‐based case‐control study. For each of the 1,093 cases, three age‐ and gender matched controls were selected (N = 3,279). Conditional logistic regression analyses were adjusted for confounding by Down syndrome, birth weight (large for gestational age), and maternal smoking. Complete residential histories and previously collected survey data of the background gamma radiation in Finland were used to assess the exposure of the study subjects to indoor and outdoor gamma radiation. Overall, background gamma radiation showed a non‐significant association with the OR of childhood leukemia (OR 1.01, 95% CI 0.97, 1.05 for 10 nSv/h increase in average equivalent dose rate to red bone marrow). In subgroup analyses, age group 2–<7 years displayed a larger effect (OR 1.27, 95% CI 1.01, 1.60 for 1 mSv increase in equivalent cumulative dose to red bone marrow). Suggestive difference in OR by genetic subtype was found. Our results provide further support to the notion that low doses of ionizing radiation increase the risk for childhood leukemia, particularly at age 2–<7 years. Our findings suggest a larger effect of radiation on leukemia with high hyperpdiploidy than other subgroups, but this result requires further confirmation.
Are disparities of waiting times for breast cancer care related to socio‐economic factors? A regional population‐based study (France)
Authors: Ayrault‐Piault Stéphanie , Grosclaude Pascale , Daubisse‐Marliac Laetitia , Pascal Jean , Leux Christophe , Fournier Evelyne , Tagri Anne‐Delphine , Métais Magali , Lombrail Pierre , Woronoff Anne‐Sophie , Molinié Florence
Published: July 2016

The increasing number of breast cancer cases may induce longer waiting times (WT), which can be a source of anxiety for patients and may play a role in survival. The aim of this study was to examine the factors, in particular socio‐economic factors, related to treatment delays. Using French Cancer Registry databases and self‐administered questionnaires, we included 1,152 women with invasive non‐metastatic breast cancer diagnosed in 2007. Poisson regression analysis was used to identify WTs' influencing factors. For 973 women who had a malignant tissue sampling, the median of overall WT between the first imaging procedure and the first treatment was 44 days (9 days for pathological diagnostic WT and 31 days for treatment WT). The medical factors mostly explained inequalities in WTs. Socio‐economic and behavioral factors had a limited impact on WTs except for social support which appeared to be a key point. Better identifying the factors associated with increase in WTs will make it possible to develop further interventional or prospective studies to confirm their causal role in delay and at last reduce disparities in breast cancer management.
Contextual Positive Coping as a Factor Contributing to Resilience After Disasters
Authors: Shing Elaine Z. , Jayawickreme Eranda , Waugh Christian E.
Published: July 2016

Objective

Strategy–situation fit, or contextual coping, posits that the physical and psychological demands associated with stressors are determined in part by the characteristics of each stress situation and may therefore require the use of different coping strategies. In this review, we discuss strategy–situation fit in the context of both natural and manmade disasters as it pertains to positivity and, ultimately, resilience after disasters.

Method

We reviewed the relevant literature on positivity and coping with disasters using a contextual approach.

Results

We identified several disaster‐related characteristics (i.e., cause of disaster, temporal characteristics of disasters, and degree of resource loss) that might influence the efficacy of positive coping strategies. We then discussed strategies that could be useful for promoting resilience with regard to these different characteristics.

Conclusion

This work represents an initial step in conceptualizing disaster resiliency within the framework of contextual positive coping. Recommendations for future avenues of research are discussed.
Design, Synthesis, and Acaricidal Activities of Novel Pyrazole Acrylonitrile Compounds
Authors: Huang Danling , Huang Mingzhi , Liu Aiping , Liu Xingping , Liu Weidong , Chen Xiaoyang , Xue Hansong , Sun Jiong , Yin Dulin , Wang Xiaoguang
Published: July 2016

Using cyenopyrafen as the lead compound, a series of novel pyrazole acrylonitrile compounds were designed and synthesized via the reaction of butylphenylacetonitrile with the corresponding (substituted pyrazol‐5‐yl) methanone of pyrethroid alcohols in the presence of potassium tert‐butoxide. These compounds showed prominent acaricidal activity against Tetranchus urticae. In particular, IIf, IIh, IIo, and IIp displayed excellent activities, which the median lethal concentrations were all lower 0.4 mg/L. In addition, the structure‐activity relationship for the target compounds was discussed.
An Improved and Efficient Process for the Production of Highly Pure Dexmethylphenidate Hydrochloride
Authors: Xing Long‐Xuan , Shen Cheng‐Wu , Sun Yuan‐Yuan , Huang Lei , Zheng Yong‐Yong , Li Jian‐Qi
Published: July 2016

The present work describes an efficient and commercially viable process for the synthesis of dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride (1), a mild nervous system stimulant. The overall yield is 23% with ~99.9% purity (including seven chemical steps). Formation and control of possible impurities are also described in this report.
Synthesis and Biological Activity of Anthranilic Diamide Derivatives Incorporating 1,3,4‐oxadiazole or Nitrogen‐containing Saturated Heterocyclic Moieties
Authors: Zhou Wen‐Juan , Zhang Li , Xiao Wei , Chen He‐Ju , Wu Wen‐Neng , Ouyang Gui‐Ping
Published: July 2016

A series of novel anthranilic diamide derivatives incorporating 1,3,4‐oxadiazole or nitrogen‐containing saturated heterocyclic moieties were synthesized, characterized, and evaluated for bacteriostatic activity against three phytopathogenic bacteria Xanthomonas oryzae pv. Oryzae (Xoo), Xanthomonas axonopodis pv. Citri (Xac), Ralstonia solanacearum (R. solanacearum). The preliminary biological results indicated that most compounds exhibit bacteriostatic activity against three phytopathogenic bacteria. Among these compounds, compounds 6g, 6f, and 6i displayed better antibacterial activity. In the test with concentration of 200 µg/mL, antibacterial activity of compound 6i and 6j was 96%. In particular, the bacteriostatic activity displayed by compound 6h against Xoo is similar to the one displayed by commercial drug bismerthiazol.
Synthesis and Photophysical Properties of Porphyrin–Arylimidazole Heterodyads
Authors: Zheng Wei , Li Xianglin , Chen Hongbiao , Xie Qiong , Li Huaming
Published: July 2016

A series of directly linked metalloporphyrin–arylimidazole heterodyads (3, 4, and 6) with an arylimidazole unit at the meso‐ or β‐pyrrolic position of the porphyrin were synthesized via Debus–Radziszewsk reaction. Introduction of a copper ion into the porphyrin contributed significantly to the overall stability of the heterodyads. The absorption spectra indicated that the basic electronic characteristics of both individual units (i.e., metalloporphyrin and arylimidazole) were retained in the heterodyads. In addition, strong fluorescence quenching was observed in the case of the heterodyads containing copper(II) porphyrin. Cyclic voltammetric studies revealed that the heterodyads were more difficult to oxidize compared with the pristine metalloporphyrins.
AgNO3 dependant modulation of glucose mediated respiration kinetics in Escherichia coli at different pH and temperature
Authors: Afiqah Radin Nur , Paital Biswaranjan , Kumar Sunil , Majeed Abu Bakar Abdul , Tripathy Minaketan
Published: July 2016

The inhibitory role of AgNO3 on glucose‐mediated respiration in Escherichia coli has been investigated as a function of pH and temperature using Clark‐type electrode, environmental scanning electron microscopy, and computational tools. In the given concentration of bacterial suspension (1 × 108 CFU/ml), E. coli showed an increasing nonlinear trend of tetra‐phasic respiration between 1–133 μM glucose concentration within 20 min. The glucose concentrations above 133 μM did not result any linear increment in respiration but rather showed a partial inhibition at higher glucose concentrations (266–1066 μM). In the presence of glucose, AgNO3 caused a concentration‐dependent (47–1960 μM) inhibition of the respiration rate within 4 min of its addition. The respiration rate was the highest at pH 7–8 and then was decreased on either side of this pH range. The inhibitory action of AgNO3 upon bacterial respiration was the highest at 37 °C. The observations of the respiration data were well supported by the altered bacterial morphology as observed in electron microscopic study. Docking study indicated the AgNO3 binding to different amino acids of all respiratory complex enzymes in E. coli and thereby explaining its interference with the respiratory chain. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Why we need theory in the organization sciences
Authors: Ashkanasy Neal M.
Published: July 2016

To make the case that theory is a necessary part of research in the organization sciences, I develop three lines of argument. In the first, drawing upon Staw and Sutton's (1995, “What theory is not” Administrative Science Quarterly, 40, 371–384) classic piece, I outline the boundaries of theory and, using a recently published empirical article as an example, demonstrate how research based on literature references and line‐and‐box diagrams instead of explanatory theory can make only a limited contribution to the literature. I next discuss more generally the pitfalls of conducting research without first developing theory, citing the example of malaria. In the final section of the article, I defend the role of theory‐review articles, such as those published in the Academy of Management Review, and illustrate (again by reference to an example) how such articles are critical to advancing organizational research. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Different patterns of extracellular proteolytic activity in W303a and BY4742 Saccharomyces cerevisiae strains
Authors: Seredyński Rafał , Wolna Dorota , Kędzior Mateusz , Gutowicz Jan
Published: July 2016

Protease secretion in Saccharomyces cerevisiae cultures is a complex process, important for the application of this organism in the food industry and biotechnology. Previous studies provide rather quantitative data, yielding no information about the number of enzymes involved in proteolysis and their individual biochemical properties. Here we demonstrate that W303a and BY4742 S. cerevisiae strains reveal different patterns of spontaneous and gelatin‐induced extracellular proteolytic activity. We applied the gelatin zymography assay to track changes of the proteolytic profile in time, finding the protease secretion dependent on the growth phase and the presence of the protein inducer. Detected enzymes were characterized regarding their substrate specificity, pH tolerance, and susceptibility to inhibitors. In case of the W303a strain, only one type of gelatin‐degrading secretory protease (presumably metalloproteinase) was observed. However, the BY4742 strain secreted different proteases of the various catalytic types, depending on the substrate availability. Our study brings the evidence that S. cerevisiae strains secrete several kinds of proteases depending on the presence and type of the substrate. Protein induction may cause not only quantitative but also qualitative changes in the extracellular proteolytic patterns.
The combined effect of water status and crop level on Tempranillo wine volatiles
Authors: Talaverano Inmaculada , Valdés Esperanza , Moreno Daniel , Gamero Esther , Mancha Luis , Vilanova Mar
Published: July 2016

BACKGROUND

The effect of water status and crop level on the volatile composition of Tempranillo wine was investigated over two growing seasons (2010–2011) in Extremadura (Spain). Three water status treatments (T0, Rainfed control; T1, Early regulated deficit irrigation; T2, Late regulated deficit irrigation) were combined with two crop levels treatments (TH, cluster thinning; C, control).

RESULTS

Crop level treatment had a higher effect on individual volatiles analyzed in Tempranillo wine than water status. The combinations of water status and crop level treatments showed effects on all families of compounds with the exception of acetates and volatile fatty acids. Alcohols, C6 compounds and phenol volatiles produced the highest concentrations at the lower level of available water and when cluster thinning was applied (T0–TH). However, ethyl ester and lactones showed higher concentrations in regulated deficit irrigation (T1 and T2) and when cluster thinning was not applied.

CONCLUSION

The combined effect of rainfed and cluster‐thinning treatments (T0–TH) increased the majority of individual aromatic compounds quantified in Tempranillo wines and also showed the highest total odor activity value. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
A small angle X‐ray scattering study of the structure and development of looseness in bovine hides and leather
Authors: Wells Hannah C , Holmes Geoff , Jeng U‐Ser , Wu Wei‐Ru , Kirby Nigel , Hawley Adrian , Mudie Stephen , Haverkamp Richard G
Published: July 2016

BACKGROUND

Some bovine hides produce poor quality leather, termed loose leather. The structural characteristics of hides and the intermediate processed stages that lead to loose leather are not well understood. In the present study, synchrotron‐based small angle X‐ray scattering (SAXS) is used to investigate collagen fibril orientation at the different stages of processing (i.e. from hide through to leather) that result in both tight and loose leathers.

RESULTS

Tight leather of a relatively isotropic texture has a lower orientation index (OI) than loose leather of a more pronounced stratified texture; conversely, tight pickled hide and wet blue have a higher OI than loose pickled hide and wet blue. There is a greater increase in OI on processing from pickled hide to dry crust (leather) for loose material. This is largely the result of a greater increase in hide thickness prior to pickling for loose hide than tight hide, followed by a greater decrease at the dry crust stage. The collagen fibrils in loose leather and wet blue more readily orient under stress than do those in tight leather. Loose leather has a more pronounced layered structure than tight leather, although this difference is not apparent from SAXS measurements of hide prior to the dry crust stage; it develops during processing.

CONCLUSION

The greater swelling of the loose hide during processing disrupts the structure and leads to a more layered collagen arrangement on shrinking at the final dry crust stage. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Influence of chitosan‐sodium alginate pretreated with ultrasound on the enzyme activity, viscosity and structure of papain
Authors: Feng Liping , Cao Yanping , Xu Duoxia , Zhang Dandan , Huang Zhenghua
Published: July 2016

BACKGROUND

Ultrasound treatment has been shown to be an effective technique for improving the activity of immobilized enzymes. However, its mechanism is unclear.

RESULTS

The effect of ultrasonic pretreated chitosan‐sodium alginate (CHI‐ALG) on the enzymatic activity of papain was investigated via a single factor (temperature, time, frequency, power) experiment. The maximum relative enzyme activity of papain was observed when it was mixed with ultrasound pretreatedCHI‐ALGat 135kHz, 0.25 W cm−2and 50 °C for 20 min, during which the relative activity increased by 72.14% compared to untreatedCHI‐ALG. Viscosity analysis of papain mixed withCHI‐ALGpretreated and untreated with ultrasound revealed that stronger association interactions between the polymers were formed compared to the untreated sample. Fluorescence and circular dichroism spectra indicated that the ultrasonic pretreatment ofCHI‐ALGincreased the number of tryptophan on the papain surface and also increased the content ofα‐helix by 6.97% and decreased the content ofβ‐sheet by 3.45% compared to the untreated solution.

CONCLUSION

The results of the present study indicate that papain combined withCHI‐ALGpretreated with the appropriate ultrasound could be effective technique for improving the activity of immobilized enzymes as a result of changes in its structure and intermolecular interactions. It is important to extend the application ofCHI‐ALGgel in the immobilized enzyme industry. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Exploring the effect of radiation crosslinking on the physico‐mechanical, dynamic mechanical and dielectric properties of EOC–PDMS blends for cable insulation applications
Authors: Ramachandran Padmanabhan , Naskar Kinsuk , Nando Golok B
Published: July 2016

This work focuses on the effect of electron beam irradiation on the physico‐mechanical, dynamic mechanical and dielectric properties of blends based on ethylene octene copolymer (EOC) and poly dimethyl siloxane (PDMS) rubber. It is found that electron beam irradiation caused considerable improvement in the physico‐mechanical properties; the tensile strength was enhanced by nearly 35% for 70:30 EOC:PDMS blend. Phase morphology of the blends analyzed before irradiation by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) exhibited droplet/matrix morphology with sizes of the PDMS rubber domain varying from 0.55 µm to 0.47 µm as the amount of PDMS rubber decreased from 30 wt% to 10 wt%. This reduction in the PDMS rubber domain has been correlated with the physico‐mechanical properties of the blends. Further, the dynamic mechanical properties and creep behavior of these EOC:PDMS blends before and after irradiation has been studied. It is inferred that the 70:30 blend after radiation crosslinking shows a 17% decrease in the creep compliance, i.e. higher creep resistance compared to neat blends. All the radiation crosslinked blends exhibited lower dielectric constant, lower dielectric loss and higher electrical resistivity as compared to the virgin blends which makes it suitable for cable insulating application. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Neutrophil infiltration and activation in bronchiolitic airways are independent of viral etiology
Authors: Cavallaro Elena C. , Liang Kar‐Kate , Lawrence Mark D. , Forsyth Kevin D. , Dixon Dani‐Louise
Published: July 2016

Background

Hospitalization with bronchiolitis is linked to the development of early childhood chronic wheeze and asthma. Viral etiology and severity of inflammation are potential contributing factors. Previously we observed reduced airway neutrophil infiltration in breastfed bronchiolitic infants, with a corresponding reduction in disease severity. This study aimed to examine whether respiratory viral etiology and co‐infection alters the pattern of neutrophil influx, and the inflammatory mediator profile, resulting in epithelial damage in bronchiolitis.

Methods

Nasopharyngeal aspirates (NPAs) collected from hospitalized infants were assessed for viruses, soluble protein, cellular infiltrate, interleukin (IL)‐6, ‐8, and myeloperoxidase (MPO).

Results

NPAs were collected from 228 bronchiolitic and 14 non‐bronchiolitic infants. In the bronchiolitic cohort, human rhinovirus was most prevalent (38%), followed by respiratory syncytial virus (36%), adenovirus (10%), and human metapneumovirus (6%), with 25% positive for viral co‐infections and 25% negative for all screened viruses. Viral‐induced bronchiolitis was associated with increased cellular infiltrate and protein, above control, and virus‐negative infants (P < 0.05). Cellular infiltrate correlated to IL‐6, ‐8, and MPO (r = 0.331, 0.669, and 0.661; P < 0.01). Protein, IL‐6, ‐8, and MPO differed significantly between viral groups; however, the majority of marker values for all groups fall within an overlapping, indistinguishable range, precluding their use as biomarkers of viral etiology. No significant difference was found between single and viral co‐infections for any parameter.

Conclusion

Bronchiolitic infants presenting with a detectable respiratory virus during hospitalization demonstrated elevated markers of airway tissue inflammation and injury. In this cohort, viral etiology did not discernibly modulate chemokine‐mediated neutrophil infiltration and activation. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2017;52:238–246. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A Novel Extract of Fenugreek Husk (FenuSMART™) Alleviates Postmenopausal Symptoms and Helps to Establish the Hormonal Balance: A Randomized, Double‐Blind, Placebo‐Controlled Study
Authors: Shamshad Begum S. , Jayalakshmi H. K. , Vidyavathi H. G. , Gopakumar G. , Abin Issac , Balu Maliakel , Geetha K. , Suresha S. V. , Vasundhara M. , Krishnakumar I. M.
Published: July 2016

Despite the widespread use of hormone replacement therapy, various reports on its side effects have generated an increasing interest in the development of safe natural agents for the management of postmenopausal discomforts. The present randomized, double‐blinded, placebo‐controlled study investigated the effect of 90‐day supplementation of a standardized extract of fenugreek (Trigonella foenum‐graecum) (FenuSMART™), at a dose of 1000 mg/day, on plasma estrogens and postmenopausal discomforts. Eighty‐eight women having moderate to severe postmenopausal discomforts and poor quality of life (as evidenced from the scores of Greene Climacteric Scale, short form SF‐36® and structured medical interview) were randomized either to extract‐treated (n = 44) or placebo (n = 44) groups. There was a significant (p < 0.01) increase in plasma estradiol (120%) and improvements on various postmenopausal discomforts and quality of life of the participants in the extract‐treated group, as compared with the baseline and placebo. While 32% of the subjects in the extract group reported no hot flashes after supplementation, the others had a reduction to one to two times per day from the baseline stages of three to five times a day. Further analysis of haematological and biochemical parameters revealed the safety of the extract and its plausible role in the management of lipid profile among menopausal women. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Pharmacological Effects of Capparis spinosa L.
Authors: Nabavi Seyed Fazel , Maggi Filippo , Daglia Maria , Habtemariam Solomon , Rastrelli Luca , Nabavi Seyed Mohammad
Published: July 2016

Medicinal plants have been known as one of the most important therapeutic agents since ancient times. During the last two decades, much attention has been paid to the health‐promoting effects of edible medicinal plants, because of multiple beneficial effects and negligible adverse effects. Capparis spinosa L. is one of the most common medicinal plants, used widely in different parts of the world to treat numerous human diseases. This paper aims to critically review the available scientific literature regarding the health‐promoting effects of C. spinosa, its traditional uses, cultivation protocols and phytochemical constituents. Recently, a wide range of evidence has shown that this plant possesses different biological effects, including antioxidant, anticancer and antibacterial effects. Phytochemical analysis shows that C. spinosa has high quantities of bioactive constituents, including polyphenolic compounds, which are responsible for its health‐promoting effects, although many of these substances are present in low concentrations and significant changes in their content occur during processing. In addition, there is negligible scientific evidence regarding any adverse effects. Different health promotion activities, as well as tremendous diversity of active constituents, make C. spinosa a good candidate for discovering new drugs. However these findings are still in its infancy and future experimental and clinical studies are needed. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Bayesian Model Selection for the Validation of Computer Codes
Authors: Damblin Guillaume , Keller Merlin , Barbillon Pierre , Pasanisi Alberto , Parent Éric
Published: July 2016

Complex physical systems are increasingly modeled by computer codes which aim at predicting the reality as accurately as possible. During the last decade, code validation has benefited from a large interest within the scientific community because of the requirement to assess the uncertainty affecting the code outputs. Inspiring from past contributions to this task, a testing procedure is proposed in this paper to decide either a pure code prediction or a discrepancy‐corrected one should be used to provide the best approximation of the physical system.

In a particular case where the computer code depends on uncertain parameters, this problem of model selection can be carried out in a Bayesian setting. It requires the specification of proper prior distributions that are well known as having a strong impact on the results. Another way consists in specifying non‐informative priors. However, they are sometimes improper, which is a major barrier for computing the Bayes factor. A way to overcome this issue is to use the so‐calledintrinsic Bayes factor(IBF) in order to replace the ill‐defined Bayes factor when improper priors are used. For computer codes which depend linearly on their parameters, the computation of the IBF is made easier, thanks to some explicit marginalization. In the paper, we present a special case where the IBF is equal to the standard Bayes factor when theright‐Haarprior is specified on the code parameters and the scale of the code discrepancy.

On simulated data, the IBF has been computed for several prior distributions. A confounding effect between the code discrepancy and the linear code is pointed out. Finally, the IBF is computed for an industrial computer code used for monitoring power plant production. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Planning and Analyzing Experiments with Models that Distinguish Between Replicates and Repeats
Authors: Hamada Michael S. , Steiner Stefan H. , MacKay R. Jock , Reese C. Shane
Published: July 2016

A commonly used model to analyze experiments with normal responses does not distinguish between replicates and repeats. The same problem arises with binary and count responses where we can use a generalized linear model. In this article, we propose using models that explicitly allow for two sources of variation, that due to replicates and that due to repeats. In addition, for experiments carried out on high‐volume, existing processes, there are often large amounts of data, collected in different ways, that are available to aid in the planning and analysis of the experiment. We demonstrate the value of using these available data with two detailed examples. We finish with a brief summary and raise some further issues. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Comparative QM/MM studies of H2 adsorption on lithium doped single walled armchair and zigzag nanotubes: SiCNT, GeCNT, and SnCNT
Authors: Samanta Pabitra Narayan , Das Kalyan Kumar
Published: July 2016

Binding capabilities of hydrogen molecules on Li doped metal carbide nanotubes (MCNT, M = Si, Ge, Sn) have been compared from ab initio‐based calculations using quantum mechanical /molecular mechanics methodology. Geometry optimizations are carried out at the ONIOM2 (B3LYP/6‐31 + G(d)//LANL2DZ:UFF) level of theory with coronene ring as a model in the high layer. Lithium binding energies on each of the pure armchair (5,5) and zigzag (6,0) MCNTs are calculated. Adsorptions of one and two H2 molecules on the Li doped nanotubes are successively studied. In both cases the complexes are found to be stable and the average adsorption energy falls in between −18 and −38 kcal/mol. Stabilities of Li@MCNT, H2/Li@MCNT, and (H2)2/Li@MCNT systems are confirmed from the HOMO‐LUMO gap and three chemical reactivity descriptors such as chemical potential, hardness and electrophilicity index. The charge polarization mechanism plays a pivotal role in the H2 adsorption on the surface of Li@MCNT. The dispersion corrected M06‐2X functional is also included in the calculation to investigate the changes in the H2 binding properties. The interaction of H2 with the lithium doped MCNT has also been analyzed from the total electron density maps and density of states projected to different atoms.
In silico characterization of bimolecular electron transfer reactions: The ferrocene–ferrocenium reaction as a test case
Authors: Del Galdo Sara , Aschi Massimiliano , Amadei Andrea
Published: July 2016

The theoretical modeling of chemical reactions in condensed phase still represents an open field of investigation for theoretical–computational chemistry. In this context, we have proposed a methodology (the Perturbed Matrix Method [PMM]), based on the first principles of statistical mechanics and on the use of molecular simulations, which has demonstrated its ability in quantitatively predicting the kinetics and the thermodynamics of chemical reactions in complex atomistic environments. In this study, we demonstrate the features of PMM by modeling the resonant Electron Transfer bimolecular reaction between ferrocene and ferrocenium in solution. The obtained results, despite the adopted approximations and the intrinsic limitations of the approach, are in very good agreement with the experimental data and demonstrate the ability of the method for addressing complex reactions in solution and for evaluating the kinetics of slow events out of the potentialities of the state‐of‐the‐art molecular simulations.
Interactive knowledge discovery from hidden data through sampling of frequent patterns
Authors: Bhuiyan Mansurul , Hasan Mohammad Al
Published: July 2016

In real life, many important datasets are not publicly accessible due to various reasons, including privacy protection and maintenance of business competitiveness. However, Knowledge discovery and pattern mining from these datasets can bring enormous benefit both to the data owner and the external entities. In this paper, we propose a novel solution for this task, which is based on Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) sampling of frequent patterns. Instead of returning all the frequent patterns, the proposed paradigm sends back a small set of randomly selected patterns so that the confidentiality of the dataset can be maintained. Our solution also allows interactive sampling, so that the sampled patterns can fulfill the user's requirement effectively. We show experimental results from several real‐life datasets to validate the capability and usefulness of our solution. In particular, we show examples that by using our proposed solution, an eCommerce marketplace can allow pattern mining on user session data without disclosing the data to the public; such a mining paradigm can help the sellers in the marketplace, which eventually can boost the market's own revenue. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Statistical Analysis and Data Mining: The ASA Data Science Journal, 2016
Conflict inside and outside: Social comparisons and attention shifts in multidivisional firms
Authors: Hu Songcui , He Zi‐Lin , Blettner Daniela P. , Bettis Richard A.
Published: July 2016

Research summary: Behavioral Theory highlights the crucial role of social comparisons in attention allocation in adaptive aspirations. Yet, both the specification of social reference points and the dynamics of attention allocation have received little scholarly examination. We address performance feedback from two social reference points relative to divisions in multidivisional firms: economic reference point and political reference point. Comparing divisional performance with the two reference points can give consistent or inconsistent feedback, which has important consequences for the dynamics of attention allocation in adaptive aspirations. We find consistent feedback leads to more attention to own experience, while inconsistent feedback results in more attention to the social reference point the focal division underperforms. Results reveal that political reference point plays an important role in determining managerial attention allocation.

Managerial summary: This article is based on how goal‐based performance of divisions relative to both their relevant external market rivals and sister divisions in multidivisional firms influences corporate resource allocation. As a result, various combinations of performance against the two groups of peers drive the reallocation of divisional management attention. We show that specific attention shifts occur on average as a function of the focal division's performance relative to the marketplace performance and that of sister divisions. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Stock of downstream complementary assets as a catalyst for product innovation during technological change in theU.S.machine tool industry
Authors: Roy Raja , Cohen Susan K.
Published: July 2016

Research summary: We investigate the effect of incumbents' stock of downstream complementary assets on their product innovation during a disruptive technological change. We theorize that a firm's stock of downstream complementary assets, by providing critical information about shifting demand conditions, will play a catalytic role in firm adaptation during such a change. Using the advent of disruptive computer numerical control machine tools in theU.S.machine tool industry during the 1970s and 1980s as the context, we find that firms with greater stocks of downstream complementary assets are likely to be product innovation leaders during such a change.

Managerial summary: Disruptive changes are challenging firms across industries. We concentrate on theU.S.machine tool industry during the 1970s and 1980s when Japanese manufacturers with disruptive computer numerical control systems challenged theU.S.manufacturers. We find that, under the threat of disruption, the greater the stock of downstream complementary assets a U.S. machine tool manufacturer has, the more likely it is to be the product innovation leader with the disruptive technology. Our findings provide novel insights for managers in companies that face disruptive changes and can help them avoid the consequences of such changes as predicted by prior research. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A smart distribution system reconfiguration algorithm with optimal active power scheduling considering various types of distributed generators
Authors: Teshome Dawit Fekadu , Lian Kuo Lung
Published: July 2016

This paper presents an efficient way of solving the distribution system reconfiguration (DSR) problem in electrical power systems with consideration of different types of distributed generators (DGs). The objective of a DSR is to minimize the system power loss while satisfying the system constraints and keeping the topology of the system radial. In this paper, a new DSR algorithm based on a modified particle swarm optimization (PSO) is proposed to incorporate DGs with the constant voltage control mode. The proposed method is very efficient because it avoids an extra iteration loop for computing the reactive power at PV buses in order to keep the voltage at a specified magnitude. Furthermore, if the reactive power requirement is not met in between the extreme limits, the proposed algorithm strictly searches for the best possible tie switch combination to simultaneously reduce the power loss and ensure that the DGs operate in PV mode within acceptable reactive power limit. The proposed algorithm also integrates hourly DSR with optimal DG active power scheduling considering the DG type, generation limit constraints, and the allowable DG penetration level. The validity and the effectiveness of the proposed method has been tested using standard IEEE 33‐bus and 69‐bus distribution networks with various case studies. Test results show that the proposed method is robust and delivers a minimal average power loss compared with different methods, and it efficiently models DGs in DSR, demonstrating that the presence of DGs can further reduce the system loss. © 2016 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
An optimal location of static VAr compensator based on Gramian critical energy for damping oscillations in power systems
Authors: Van Dai Le , Li Xinran , Li Peiqiang , Quyen Le Cao
Published: July 2016

The increase in the scale and complexity of interconnected power systems leads to multiple electromechanical oscillations. Therefore, the electric network needs to be made more stable. One type of Flexible alternating current transmission systems (FACTS) devices, namely the static VAr compensator (SVC), can be installed at buses to increase the stability margins and dampen the power system oscillations by exchanging capacitive and/or inductive load to maintain and/or control specific parameters of electrical power systems. The efficiency and performance of the SVC depend on its optimal location. Consequently, seeking the optimal placement for SVC has become a key issue. In this paper, we propose a novel method to find the optimal location for the SVC based on a two‐step approach. First, an energetic approach based on the combination of the controllability Gramian critical energy analysis with the balanced realization reduction technique is used to search for several feasible locations; then the transient stability is analyzed to compare and determine an optimal location through various test cases. The effectiveness of the proposed method has been demonstrated on the IEEE 39‐bus England power system and compared with the modal controllability index. © 2016 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.