bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Maternal blood‐pressure trends throughout pregnancy and development of pre‐eclampsia in women receiving first‐trimester aspirin prophylaxis
Authors: Baschat A. A. , Dewberry D. , Seravalli V. , Miller J. L. , Block‐Abraham D. , Blitzer M. G.
Published: December 2017

Objectives

To study women who initiated aspirin in the first trimester for high risk of pre‐eclampsia, and compare blood‐pressure trends throughout pregnancy between those with normal outcome and those who subsequently developed pre‐eclampsia.

Methods

Women were enrolled into a prospective observational study at 9–14 weeks' gestation. This was a secondary analysis of those who started daily doses of 81 mg of aspirin before 16 weeks for increased risk of pre‐eclampsia based on maternal history and bilateral uterine artery notching. Enrollment characteristics and blood‐pressure measurements throughout gestation were compared between women who did and those who did not develop pre‐eclampsia.

Results

Of the 237 women who initiated first‐trimester aspirin prophylaxis, 29 (12.2%) developed pre‐eclampsia. A total of 2881 serial blood‐pressure measurements obtained between 4 and 41 weeks' gestation (747 in the first trimester, 1008 in the second and 1126 in the third) showed that women with pre‐eclampsia started pregnancy with higher blood pressure and maintained this trend despite taking aspirin (mean arterial blood pressure in women with pre‐eclampsia = (0.13 × gestational age (weeks)) + 93.63, vs (0.11 × gestational age (weeks)) + 82.61 in those without; P < 0.005). First‐trimester diastolic and second‐trimester systolic blood pressure were independent risk factors for pre‐eclampsia (β = 1.087 and 1.050, respectively; r2 = 0.24, P < 0.0001). When average first‐trimester diastolic blood pressure was >74 mmHg, the odds ratio for pre‐eclampsia was 6.5 (95% CI, 2.8–15.1; P < 0.001) and that for pre‐eclampsia before 34 weeks was 14.6 (95% CI, 1.72–123.5; P = 0.004). If, in addition, average second‐trimester systolic blood pressure was >125 mmHg, the odds ratio for pre‐eclampsia was 9.4 (95% CI, 4.1–22.4; P < 0.001) and that for early‐onset disease was 34.6 (95% CI, 4.1–296.4; P = 0.004).

Conclusion

In women treated with prophylactic aspirin from the first trimester, those who develop pre‐eclampsia have significantly and sustained higher blood pressure from the onset of pregnancy compared with those who do not develop pre‐eclampsia. This raises the possibility that mildly elevated blood pressure predisposes women to abnormal placentation, which then acts synergistically with elevated blood pressure to predispose such women to pre‐eclampsia to a degree that is incompletely mitigated by aspirin. Copyright © 2017 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Evolutionary data mining and applications: A revision on the most cited papers from the last 10 years (2007–2017)
Authors: Alcalá Rafael , Gacto María José , Alcalá‐Fdez Jesús
Published: December 2017

The ability of evolutionary algorithms (EAs) to manage a set of solutions, even attending multiple objectives, as well as their ability to optimize any kinds of values, allows them to fit very well some parts of the data‐mining (DM) problems, whose native learning techniques usually associated with the inherent DM problem are not able to solve. Therefore, EAs are widely applied to complement or even replace the classical DM learning approaches. This application of EAs to the DM process is usually named evolutionary data mining (EDM). This contribution aims at showing a glimpse of the EDM field current state by focusing on the most cited papers published in the last 10 years. A descriptive analysis of the papers together with a bibliographic study is performed in order to differentiate past and current trends and to easily focus on significant further developments. Results show that, in the case of the most cited studied papers, the use of EAs on DM tasks is mainly focused on enhancing the classical learning techniques, thus completely replacing them only when it is directly motivated by the nature of problem. The bibliographic analysis is also showing that even though EAs were the main techniques used for EDM, the emergent evolutionary computation algorithms (swarm intelligence, etc.) are becoming nowadays the most cited and used ones. Based on all these facts, some potential further directions are also discussed. WIREs Data Mining Knowl Discov 2018, 8:e1239. doi: 10.1002/widm.1239

This article is categorized under:

Fundamental Concepts of Data and Knowledge > Knowledge Representation

Technologies > Computational Intelligence

Technologies > Classification

Technologies > Prediction
The symbiosis of concurrency and verification: teaching and case studies
Authors: Pedersen Jan B. , Welch Peter H.
Published: December 2017

Concurrency is beginning to be accepted as a core knowledge area in the undergraduate CS curriculum—no longer isolated, for example, as a support mechanism in a module on operating systems or reserved as an
advanced
discipline for later study. Formal verification of system properties is often considered a
difficult
subject area, requiring significant mathematical knowledge and generally restricted to smaller systems employing sequential logic only. This paper presents materials, methods and experiences of teaching concurrency and verification as a unified subject, as early as possible in the curriculum, so that they become
fundamental
elements of our software engineering tool kit—to be used together every day as a matter of course. Concurrency and verification should live in symbiosis. Verification is essential for concurrent systems as testing becomes especially inadequate in the face of complex non-deterministic (and, therefore, hard to repeat) behaviours. Concurrency should
simplify
the expression of most scales and forms of computer system by reflecting the concurrency of the worlds in which they operate (and, therefore, have to model); simplified expression leads to simplified reasoning and, hence, verification. Our approach lets these skills be developed without requiring students to be trained in the underlying formal mathematics. Instead, we build on the work of those who have engineered that necessary mathematics into the concurrency models we use (CSP,

π

-calculus), the model checker (FDR) that lets us explore and verify those systems, and the programming languages/libraries (occam-

π

, Go, JCSP, ProcessJ) that let us design and build efficient executable systems within these models. This paper introduces a workflow methodology for the development and verification of concurrent systems; it also presents and reflects on two open-ended case studies, using this workflow, developed at the authors’ two universities. Concerns analysed include safety
(don’t do bad things)
, liveness
(do good things)
and low probability deadlock
(that testing fails to discover)
. The necessary technical background is given to make this paper self-contained and its work simple to reproduce and extend.
Frühkindlicher BMI-Verlauf bei monogener Adipositas
Authors: Kohlsdorf Katja , Nunziata Adriana , Funcke Jan-Bernd , Brandt Stephanie , von Schnurbein Julia , Vollbach Heike , Lennerz Belinda , Fritsch Maria , Greber-Platzer Susanne , Fröhlich-Reiterer Elke , Borck Guntram , Fischer-Posovszky Pamela , Wabitsch Martin
Published: December 2017

Hintergrund

Monogene Adipositasformen haben eine geschätzte Prävalenz von 1–5 % in der Gruppe der extrem adipösen Patienten. Bereits im frühen Kindesalter zwischen monogener Adipositas und anderen Adipositasformen zu unterscheiden, stellt eine Herausforderung für Kinderärzte dar. Insbesondere stellt sich die Frage, wann weiterführende Diagnostik indiziert ist.

Fragestellung

Können Body Mass Index (BMI) und BMI-Verlauf als Parameter herangezogen werden, um eine monogene Adipositas auf Basis einer Mutation des Leptin- oder Leptinrezeptorgens frühzeitig zu diagnostizieren?

Material und Methoden

Frühkindliche BMI-Verläufe (0–5 Jahre) von n = 21 Patienten mit monogener Adipositas aufgrund von Leptindefizienz (LEP, n = 6), Leptinrezeptordefizienz (LEPR, n = 6) und MC4-Rezeptordefizienz (MC4R, n = 9) wurden analysiert. BMI-Werte im Alter von 2 und 5 Jahren, Zeitpunkte der Vorsorgen U7 und U9 in Deutschland, wurden zwischen den Gruppen verglichen.

Ergebnisse

Patienten mit funktionellem Leptinmangel oder Leptinrezeptordefekt zeigen den stärksten BMI-Anstieg in den ersten beiden Lebensjahren. Ihr BMI ist im Alter von 2 Jahren >25 kg/m2 [27,2–38,4 kg/m2] und im Alter von 5 Jahren >30 kg/m2 [33,3–45,9 kg/m2]. Bei Patienten mit MC4R-Defekt manifestierte sich die Adipositas zu einem späteren Zeitpunkt mit signifikant niedrigeren BMI-Werten im Alter von 2 bzw. 5 Jahren (p < 0,01).

Diskussion

Unsere Ergebnisse zeigen, dass ein BMI > 25 kg/m2 im Alter von 2 Jahren und ein BMI > 30 kg/m2 im Alter von 5 Jahren Hinweis auf das Vorliegen einer monogenen Adipositas auf Basis einer Mutation des Leptin- oder Leptinrezeptorgens ist. Bei diesen Patienten sollte eine weiterführende Diagnostik (Bestimmung von Leptin, bioaktivem Leptin, Molekulargenetik) frühzeitig erfolgen.
Celiac disease and anorexia nervosa
Authors: Deschner Emilie L. , Barkey Janice L. , Harrison Megan E.
Published: December 2017

The relationship between anorexia nervosa and celiac disease remains an area of ongoing research. Identification of celiac disease in patients with restricted nutritional intake can be challenging since abdominal complaints are a common comorbidity associated with eating disorders and since diagnosis of celiac disease requires a duodenal biopsy while on a gluten containing diet. In this report, we present a 12-year-old female who developed anorexia nervosa and was thereafter diagnosed with celiac disease. The latter diagnosis occurred after a 2-year period of persistent abdominal complaints and duodenal biopsies on three separate occasions. Our case highlights the diagnostic challenge, which may include initially missing the diagnosis, associated with celiac disease in patients who are restricting their nutritional intake, and also the importance of re-testing in patients where gastrointestinal complaints are persistent for extended time periods after refeeding.
Genome‐wide association study of Alzheimer's disease endophenotypes at prediagnosis stages
Authors: Chung Jaeyoon , Wang Xulong , Maruyama Toru , Ma Yiyi , Zhang Xiaoling , Mez Jesse , Sherva Richard , Takeyama Haruko ,   The Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative, Lunetta Kathryn L. , Farrer Lindsay A. , Jun Gyungah R.
Published: December 2017

Introduction

Genetic associations for endophenotypes of Alzheimer's disease (AD) in cognitive stages preceding AD have not been thoroughly evaluated.

Methods

We conducted genome‐wide association studies for AD‐related endophenotypes including hippocampal volume, logical memory scores, and cerebrospinal fluid Aβ42 and total/phosphorylated tau in cognitively normal (CN), mild cognitive impairment, and AD dementia subjects from the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative study.

Results

In CN subjects, study‐wide significant (P < 8.3 × 10−9) loci were identified for total tau near SRRM4 and C14orf79 and for hippocampal volume near MTUS1. In mild cognitive impairment subjects, study‐wide significant association was found with single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) near ZNF804B for logical memory test of delayed recall scores. We found consistent expression patterns of C14orf40 and MTUS1 in carriers with risk alleles of expression SNPs and in brains of AD patients, compared with in the noncarriers and in brains of controls.

Discussion

Our findings for AD‐related brain changes before AD provide insight about early AD‐related biological processes.
Challenging Diagnosis and Inpatient Rehabilitation of Acute Bilateral Neuralgic Amyotrophy Possibly Attributed to Lyme Disease: A Case Report
Authors: Zhang Shangming , Zhang Lucy Q. , Wright Megan , Gater David R.
Published: December 2017

Neuralgic amyotrophy (NA) is a neurologic syndrome of unknown etiology primarily affecting the brachial plexus. We are reporting an unusual case of acute bilateral NA that was possibly secondary to Lyme disease. The patient demonstrated significant functional gains and was discharged home after 2 weeks of inpatient rehabilitation, supporting the role of inpatient rehabilitation in acute NA. In this report, we discuss the diagnosis, electrodiagnostic progression, pain management, goals for inpatient rehabilitation, and overall prognosis of NA.

Level of Evidence

V
Predicting viscous-range velocity gradient dynamics in large-eddy simulations of turbulence
Authors: Johnson Perry L. , Meneveau Charles
Published: December 2017

The detailed dynamics of small-scale turbulence are not directly accessible in large-eddy simulations (LES), posing a modelling challenge, because many micro-physical processes such as deformation of aggregates, drops, bubbles and polymers dynamics depend strongly on the velocity gradient tensor, which is dominated by the turbulence structure in the viscous range. In this paper, we introduce a method for coupling existing stochastic models for the Lagrangian evolution of the velocity gradient tensor with coarse-grained fluid simulations to recover small-scale physics without resorting to direct numerical simulations (DNS). The proposed approach is implemented in LES of turbulent channel flow and detailed comparisons with DNS are carried out. An application to modelling the fate of deformable, small (sub-Kolmogorov) droplets at negligible Stokes number and low volume fraction with one-way coupling is carried out and results are again compared to DNS results. Results illustrate the ability of the proposed model to predict the influence of small-scale turbulence on droplet micro-physics in the context of LES.
Vortex-ring-induced stratified mixing: mixing model
Authors: Olsthoorn Jason , Dalziel Stuart B.
Published: December 2017

The study of vortex-ring-induced mixing has been significant for understanding stratified turbulent mixing in the absence of a mean flow. Renewed interest in this topic has prompted the development of a one-dimensional model for the evolution of a stratified system in the context of isolated mixing events. This model is compared to numerical simulations and physical experiments of vortex rings interacting with a stratification. Qualitative agreement between the evolution of the density profiles is observed, along with close quantitative agreement of the mixing efficiency. This model highlights the key dynamical features of such isolated mixing events.
The diffusive sheet method for scalar mixing
Authors: Martínez-Ruiz D. , Meunier P. , Favier B. , Duchemin L. , Villermaux E.
Published: December 2017

The diffusive strip method (DSM) is a near-exact numerical method for mixing computations initially developed in two dimensions (Meunier & Villermaux, J. Fluid Mech., vol. 662, 2010, pp. 134–172). The method, which consists of following stretched material lines to compute the resulting scalar field a posteriori, is extended here to three-dimensional flows. We describe the procedure and its three-dimensional peculiarity, which relies on the Lagrangian advection of a triangulated surface from which the stretching rate is extracted to infer the scalar field. The method is first validated at moderate Péclet number against a classical pseudospectral method solving the advection–diffusion equation for a Batchelor vortex, and then applied to a simple Taylor–Couette experimental configuration with non-rotating boundary conditions at the top-end disk, bottom-end disk and outer cylinder. This motion, producing an elaborate although controlled steady three-dimensional flow, relies on Ekman pumping arising from the rotation of the inner cylinder. A recurrent two-cell structure is separated by the horizontal mid-plane and formed by stream tubes shaped as nested tori under laminar flow conditions. A scalar blob in the flow experiences a Lagrangian oscillating dynamics undergoing stretchings and compressions, driving the mixing process. The DSM enables the calculation of the blob elongation and scalar concentration distributions through a single variable computation along the advected blob surface, capturing the rich evolution observed in the experiments. Interestingly, the mixing process in this axisymmetric and steady three-dimensional flow leads to a linear growth of surfaces in time similar to the one obtained in a two-dimensional shear. The potentialities, limits and extension of the method to more general flows are finally discussed.
The Deliberative Sublime: Edmund Burke on Disruptive Speech and Imaginative Judgment
Authors: GOODMAN ROB
Published: December 2017

Is there a case to be made for the value, amidst relatively settled institutions, of unsettling speech—speech characterized by excess, impropriety, and even the uncanny? Much of contemporary deliberative theory would answer in the negative. This article, however, proposes that we can derive a defense of the deliberative value of immoderate speech from an unlikely source: Edmund Burke's theory and practice of the rhetorical sublime. Burke's account of the sublime was developed in response to an eighteenth-century discourse of civility that anticipated the anti-rhetorical strand of contemporary deliberative theory. By reconstructing Burke's response, we can recover a forceful defense of rhetoric in the present. For Burke, the disruptive practice of sublime speech can provoke circumstantial judgment, overcoming deliberators’ aversions to judging. Drawing on Burke's rhetorical practice alongside his aesthetic and linguistic theory, this article upholds a central role in deliberation for rhetoric, even in its unruly and excessive aspects.
Agency Problems in Political Campaigns: Media Buying and Consulting
Authors: MARTIN GREGORY J. , PESKOWITZ ZACHARY
Published: December 2017

Advertising expenditures in congressional campaigns are made not directly by campaigns themselves but indirectly though intermediary firms. Using a new dataset of revenues and costs of these firms, we study the markups that these firms charge candidates. We find that markups are higher for inexperienced candidates relative to experienced candidates, and PACs relative to candidates. We also find significant differences across the major parties: firms working for Republicans charge higher prices, exert less effort, and induce less responsiveness in their clients’ advertising expenditures to electoral circumstances than do their Democratic counterparts. We connect this observation to the distribution of ideology among individual consulting firm employees, arguing that these higher rents incentivize consultants to work against their intrinsic ideological motivations. The internal organization of firms reflects an attempt to mitigate this conflict of interest; firms are composed of ideologically homogeneous employees, and are more likely to work for ideologically proximate clients.
The past as a work in progress
Authors: FARA PATRICIA
Published: December 2017

Originating as a presidential address during the seventieth birthday celebrations of the British Society for the History of Science, this essay reiterates the society's long-standing commitment to academic autonomy and international cooperation. Drawing examples from my own research into female scientists and doctors during the First World War, I explore how narratives written by historians are related to their own lives, both past and present. In particular, I consider the influences on me of my childhood reading, my experiences as a physics graduate who deliberately left the world of science, and my involvement in programmes to improve the position of women in science. In my opinion, being a historian implies being socially engaged: the BSHS and its members have a responsibility towards the future as well as the past.

Life can only be understood backwards; but it must be lived forwards.

Søren Kierkegaard,Journals and Papers, 1843
FLUID LIMIT OF A PS-QUEUE WITH MULTISTAGE SERVICE
Authors: Frolkova Maria , Zwart Bert
Published: December 2017

We consider a variation of the processor-sharing (PS) queue, inspired by freelance job websites where multiple freelancers compete for a single job. We develop fluid limit approximations for the overloaded PS-model with multiple (possibly infinitely many) service stages. Based on this approximation, we estimate what proportion of freelancers get the job they apply for. In addition, the PS model studied here is an instance of PS with routing and impatience, for which no Lyapunov function is known, and we suggest some partial solutions.
Commutativity preserving extensions of groups
Authors: Jezernik Urban , Moravec Primož
Published: December 2017

In parallel to the classical theory of central extensions of groups, we develop a version for extensions that preserve commutativity. It is shown that the Bogomolov multiplier is a universal object parametrizing such extensions of a given group. Maximal and minimal extensions are inspected, and a connection with commuting probability is explored. Such considerations produce bounds for the exponent and rank of the Bogomolov multiplier.
EDUCATION, HEALTH, AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Authors: Kim Dong-Hyeon , Wu Yi-Chen , Lin Shu-Chin
Published: December 2017

This paper examines the relationships of income with education and health using heterogeneous panel cointegration techniques to account for the potential cross-country heterogeneity in the effects of education and health. Our main results are: (i) education and health are, on average, income-enhancing; (ii) for different schooling levels, although primary education lowers income, both secondary and tertiary education raise income with larger impacts for the former than the latter, on average; (iii) there is considerable heterogeneity in the effects of education and health on income across countries; and (iv) the effect of education (health) on income tends to be greater (smaller) in countries with higher levels of development, greater (less) trade openness, less abundant natural resources, less corruption, higher levels of democracy, and a more homogeneous society.
Synthesis and modification of mercapto-submicron scavenger for real-time extraction and preconcentration of As(iii)
Authors: Khdary Nezar H. , Gassim Ahmed E. H. , Howard Alan G. , Sakthivel Tamil S. , Seal Sudipta
Published: December 2017

From field to lab As(iii) analysis process using mercaptoscavenger.
Environmental fate and exposure models: advances and challenges in 21st century chemical risk assessment
Authors: Di Guardo Antonio , Gouin Todd , MacLeod Matthew , Scheringer Martin
Published: December 2017

Twenty-five years of progress in modeling the environmental fate and exposure of organic contaminants is reviewed, and a strategy for more rapidly adopting scientific progress into regulatory models is proposed.
Synthesis, characterization and biological application of 5-quinoline 1,3,5-trisubstituted pyrazole based platinum(ii) complexes
Authors: Lunagariya Miral V. , Thakor Khyati P. , Varma Reena R. , Waghela Bhargav N. , Pathak Chandramani , Patel Mohan N.
Published: December 2017

DNA interaction and DNA cleavage studies of synthesized mononuclear platinum(ii) complexes.
Antiproliferative activity of novel isatinyl/indanyl nitrones (INs) as potential spin trapping agents of free radical intermediates
Authors: Maiuolo Loredana , Feriotto Giordana , Algieri Vincenzo , Nardi Monica , Russo Beatrice , Di Gioia Maria Luisa , Furia Emilia , Tallarida Matteo Antonio , Mischiati Carlo , De Nino Antonio
Published: December 2017

Isatinyl and indanyl nitrones (INs) were synthesized and evaluated for their antiproliferative activity and antioxidant properties.
Data integration and predictive modeling methods for multi-omics datasets
Authors: Kim Minseung , Tagkopoulos Ilias
Published: December 2017

We provide an overview of opportunities and challenges in multi-omics predictive analytics with particular emphasis on data integration and machine learning methods.
High-efficiency X-ray luminescence in Eu3+-activated tungstate nanoprobes for optical imaging through energy transfer sensitization
Authors: Guo Tao , Lin Yan , Zhang Wei-Jian , Hong Jin-Sheng , Lin Ru-Hui , Wu Xiao-Ping , Li Juan , Lu Chun-Hua , Yang Huang-Hao
Published: December 2017

High-efficiency X-ray luminescence nanoprobes of PEG-NaGd(WO4)2:Eu nanorods were synthesized for high-sensitivity optical imaging.
A step towards understanding the beneficial influence of a LIPON-based artificial SEI on silicon thin film anodes in lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Reyes Jiménez A. , Nölle R. , Wagner R. , Hüsker J. , Kolek M. , Schmuch R. , Winter M. , Placke T.
Published: December 2017

The influence of lithium phosphorus oxynitride (LIPON) as an “artificial SEI layer” on the electrochemical performance of silicon thin film electrodes.
Gold nanourchins and celastrol reorganize the nucleo- and cytoskeleton of glioblastoma cells
Authors: Maysinger Dusica , Moquin Alexandre , Choi Jason , Kodiha Mohamed , Stochaj Ursula
Published: December 2017

Gold nanourchins (AuNUs) associate with lysosomes and lipid droplets (LDs) in glioblastoma cells. AuNUs reorganize F-actin, microtubules and the nuclear lamina. This alters cell signaling and increases cell death. Cell injury is further enhanced by celastrol.
High-Qand highly reproducible microdisks and microlasers
Authors: Zhang Nan , Wang Yujie , Sun Wenzhao , Liu Shuai , Huang Can , Jiang Xiaoshun , Xiao Min , Xiao Shumin , Song Qinghai
Published: December 2017

A robust, cost-effective, and highly reproducible technique to fabricate ultrahigh-Qmicrodisks is developed. The experimentally recordedQfactors are as large as 1.5 × 106.
Glycosylation of a model proto-RNA nucleobase with non-ribose sugars: implications for the prebiotic synthesis of nucleosides
Authors: Fialho David M. , Clarke Kimberly C. , Moore Megan K. , Schuster Gary B. , Krishnamurthy Ramanarayanan , Hud Nicholas V.
Published: December 2017

The emergence of the earliest nucleosides is an important, but unresolved, element of the origins of life that may have been facilitated by heterocycle reactivity and self-assembly.
Is soft independent modeling of class analogies a reasonable choice for supervised pattern recognition?
Authors: Rácz Anita , Gere Attila , Bajusz Dávid , Héberger Károly
Published: December 2017

A thorough survey of classification data sets and a rigorous comparison of classification methods show the unambiguous superiority of other techniques over soft independent modeling of class analogies (SIMCA – one class modeling) for classification.
Boosting efficiency and stability using zirconia nanosphere-held carbon for proton exchange membrane fuel cells
Authors: Dhanasekaran P. , Williams Sharon R. , Kalpana D. , Bhat Santoshkumar D.
Published: December 2017

Corrosion during the accelerated stress test for Pt on carbon and Pt on Zr–C 3 composite representing the steps for reduced carbon corrosion, stabilized Pt nanoparticles and re-deposition of Pt nanoparticles on the ZrO2:C composite.
A efficient protocol for the synthesis of thioamides in [DBUH][OAc] at room temperature
Authors: Cao Xian-Ting , Qiao Li , Zheng Hui , Yang Hui-Yong , Zhang Peng-Fei
Published: December 2017

A novel, simple and eco-friendly method to synthesize thioamides from aryl nitriles and sodium sulfide (Na2S·9H2O) catalyzed by 1,8-diazabicyclo[5,4,0]undec-7-enium acetate ([DBUH][OAc]) ionic liquid (IL) at room temperature was developed in this paper.
Exploring the potential energy surface of small lead clusters using the gradient embedded genetic algorithm and an adequate treatment of relativistic effects
Authors: Rabanal-León Walter A. , Tiznado William , Osorio Edison , Ferraro Franklin
Published: December 2017

Theoretical inclusion of relativistic effects (scalar and spin–orbit) play a crucial role to assure an adequate structural assignment on lead clusters.
Synthesis and properties of soluble aromatic polyimides from novel 4,5-diazafluorene-containing dianhydride
Authors: Deng Bo , Zhang Shujiang , Liu Chang , Li Wei , Zhang Xiangdong , Wei Hua , Gong Chenliang
Published: December 2017

A dianhydride monomer containing 4,5-diazofluorene was synthesized, and the corresponding organo-soluble polyimides exhibited good comprehensive properties.
Efficient photoelectrochemical water oxidation enabled by an amorphous metal oxide-catalyzed graphene/silicon heterojunction photoanode
Authors: Li Changli , Xiao Yequan , Zhang Li , Li Yanbo , Delaunay Jean-Jacques , Zhu Hongwei
Published: December 2017

In conjunction with a TiO2 protective layer and FeNiCoOx electrocatalyst, a graphene/Si heterojunction photoanode is demonstrated as a new type of Si-based buried junction with high photovoltage for solar water oxidation.
Multiple stimuli-responsive selenium-functionalized biodegradable starch-based hydrogels
Authors: Sun Tongbing , Zhu Caizhen , Xu Jian
Published: December 2017

Biodegradable diselenide cross-linked starch-based hydrogels, composed of starch chain backbones with an enzyme hydrolysis property and selenium-containing cross-linkers with a redox responsive cleavage property, were synthesizedviafree radical copolymerization and used as stimuli-responsive drug release materials for biomedical applications.
Advances in carbon nanostructure–silica aerogel composites: a review
Authors: Lamy-Mendes Alyne , Silva Rui F. , Durães Luisa
Published: December 2017

Synthesis & applications of advanced silica aerogel composites incorporating carbon nanostructures and their valuable properties for thermal insulation, adsorption or electrodes.
Carbon-sandwiched perovskite solar cell
Authors: Ahn Namyoung , Jeon Il , Yoon Jungjin , Kauppinen Esko I. , Matsuo Yutaka , Maruyama Shigeo , Choi Mansoo
Published: December 2017

Carbon-sandwiched perovskite solar cells have long-term stability and are low cost.
Nanocasting in ball mills – combining ultra-hydrophilicity and ordered mesoporosity in carbon materials
Authors: Zhang En , Hao Guang-Ping , Casco Mirian Elizabeth , Bon Volodymyr , Grätz Sven , Borchardt Lars
Published: December 2017

Mesoporous carbon with ordered structure and high hydrophilicity is of great interest for many applications. Nanocasting in ball mills opens a pathway to combine the two charming properties by a rapid synthesis of solvent-free N-containing coordination polymer and pyrolysis.
Molecular logic gate operations using one-dimensional DNA nanotechnology
Authors: Rana Muhit , Augspurger Erik E. , Hizir Mustafa Salih , Alp Esma , Yigit Mehmet V.
Published: December 2017

Hybridization chain reaction is programmed for DNA-based molecular logic gate operations using specific initiators and metal ion combinations.
Patterning electrospun nanofiber mats for screen printing and other applications
Authors: Hu Heng , Buddingh Jasmine V. , Wang Zijie , Becher-Nienhaus Brandon , Liu Guojun
Published: December 2017

Electrospun nanofiber mats have been patterned and used as stencils for high-fidelity screen printing using water-based inks.
Inserted metals for low-energy magnetoelectric switching in a Cr2O3/ferromagnet interfacial exchange-biased thin film system
Authors: Ye Shujun , Nozaki Tomohiro , Kotani Yoshinori , Toyoki Kentaro , Nakamura Tetsuya , Yonemura Syougo , Shibata Tatsuo , Pati Satya Prakash , Al-Mahdawi Muftah , Shiokawa Yohei , Sahashi Masashi
Published: December 2017

Inserted metals work as a part of a stacked ferromagnetic film for low-energy magnetoelectric switching in a Cr2O3–antiferromagnet/ferromagnet interfacial exchange-biased system.
Improved channel mismatch estimation for multi‐channel HRWS SAR based on azimuth cross‐correlation
Authors: Fang Chao , Liu Yanyang , Suo Zhiyong , Li Zhenfang , Chen Junli
Published: December 2017

In multi‐channel high‐resolution and wide‐swath (HRWS) synthetic aperture radar (SAR) processing, range sampling time errors and phase mismatches severely degrade the reconstruction performance of unambiguous Doppler spectrum. To address this problem, an improved channel mismatch estimation algorithm for multi‐channel HRWS SAR is presented in this Letter. The technique of combining phase wrapping and weighted least‐squares fitting is capable of realising a robust estimation of range sampling time errors and constant phases between adjacent channels. Then, Doppler centroid as well as channel phase mismatches can be estimated from these constant phases based on the theory of spatial cross‐correlation coefficient (SCCC). Compared to the conventional algorithm, the improved performance can be achieved by using the proposed two‐step procedure. The effectiveness of the proposed algorithm is confirmed by experimental results based on airborne real data.
Analysis of subsynchronous current propagation path of subsynchronous oscillation induced by renewable energy integrated to the power grid
Authors: Zhang Peng , Xu Puxuan , Bi Tianshu
Published: December 2017

This paper deals with operational parameter to study the propagation path of the subsynchronous current generated by the wind farm. First, the complex frequency domain operation parameter model of the transmission network, thermal power generator and other power system components are established. Then, the wind farm is taken as the subsynchronous current injection point and the subsynchronous current's propagation path is analysed according to the frequency impedance characteristic of the transmission network. The influences of the current frequency, the position of the wind farms and the structure of the AC system on the harmonic current distribution are analysed and studied with this method. Then the digital simulation method is used to demonstrate the conclusion drawn from the theoretical method. On the basis of the method proposed, the subsynchronous component shunt coefficient of the power system actual operation can be obtained initially.
Improved modulation method of modular multilevel converter
Authors: Qiu Peng , Xu Feng , Lu Yi , Li Jihong , Liu Gaoren , Xiao Huangqing , Wang Shijia , Xu Zheng
Published: December 2017

The modulation method of modular multilevel converter (MMC) is one of the most important issues in practical engineering. Here, an improved modulation method based on the dual queues is proposed. Firstly, the on‐state queue and off‐state queue are established in ascending order of the capacitor voltage. Also, the maximum voltage deviation among the submodules (SMs) is obtained. Secondly, when the inserted number of SMs changes, the on‐state queue and off‐state queue are adjusted according to the direction of the arm current. Thirdly, if the capacitor voltage imbalance exceeds the set value, further adjustments are made to the two queues by additional control actions. With this modulation method, the capacitor voltages of SMs do not need to be sorted, the switching frequency can be decreased and the calculating time can be reduced. A digital simulation model of MMC‐based high‐voltage DC with 200 SMs is developed in PSCAD/EMTDC, and the validity and feasibility of the proposed method can be proved by the simulation results.
Light-curve analysis of KOI 2700b: the second extrasolar planet with a comet-like tail
Authors: Garai Z
Published: December 2017

Context. The Kepler object KOI 2700b (KIC 8639908b) was discovered recently as the second exoplanet with a comet-like tail. It exhibits a distinctly asymmetric transit profile, likely indicative of the emission of dusty effluents and reminiscent of KIC 12557548b, the first exoplanet with a comet-like tail.

Aim. The scientific goal of this work is to verify the disintegrating-planet scenario of KOI 2700b by modeling its light curve and to put constraints on various tail and planet properties, as was done in the case of KIC 12557548b.

Methods. We obtained the phase-folded and binned transit light curve of KOI 2700b, which we subsequently iteratively modeled using the radiative-transfer code SHELLSPEC. We modeled the comet-like tail as part of a ring around the parent star and we also included the solid body of the planet in the model. During the modeling we applied selected species and dust particle sizes.

Results. We confirmed the disintegrating-planet scenario of KOI 2700b. Furthermore, via modeling, we derived some interesting features of KOI 2700b and its comet-like tail. It turns out that the orbital plane of the planet and its tail are not edge-on, but the orbital inclination angle is from the interval [85.1, 88.6] deg. In comparison with KIC 12557548b, KOI 2700b exhibits a relatively low dust density decreasing in its tail. We also derived the dust density at the beginning of the ring and the highest optical depth through the tail in front of the star, based on a tail-model with a cross-section of 0.05 × 0.05 R⊙ at the beginning and 0.09 × 0.09 R⊙ at its end. Our results show that the dimension of the planet is Rp∕Rs ≤ 0.014 (Rp ≤ 0.871 R⊕, or ≤5551 km). We also estimated the mass-loss rate from KOI 2700b, and we obtained Ṁ values from the interval [5.05 × 107, 4.41 × 1015] g s−1. On the other hand, we could not draw any satisfactory conclusions about the typical grain size in the dust tail.
Calibration-free quantitative elemental analysis of meteor plasma using reference laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy of meteorite samples
Authors: Ferus Martin , Koukal Jakub , Lenža Libor , Srba Jiří , Kubelík Petr , Laitl Vojtěch , Zanozina Ekaterina M. , Váňa Pavel , Kaiserová Tereza , Knížek Antonín , Rimmer Paul , Chatzitheodoridis Elias , Civiš Svatopluk
Published: December 2017

Aims. We aim to analyse real-time Perseid and Leonid meteor spectra using a novel calibration-free (CF) method, which is usually applied in the laboratory for laser-induced breakdown spectroscopic (LIBS) chemical analysis.

Methods. Reference laser ablation spectra of specimens of chondritic meteorites were measured in situ simultaneously with a high-resolution laboratory echelle spectrograph and a spectral camera for meteor observation. Laboratory data were subsequently evaluated via the CF method and compared with real meteor emission spectra. Additionally, spectral features related to airglow plasma were compared with the spectra of laser-induced breakdown and electric discharge in the air.

Results. We show that this method can be applied in the evaluation of meteor spectral data observed in real time. Specifically, CF analysis can be used to determine the chemical composition of meteor plasma, which, in the case of the Perseid and Leonid meteors analysed in this study, corresponds to that of the C-group of chondrites.
Constraints on observing brightness asymmetries in protoplanetary disks at solar system scale
Authors: Brunngräber Robert , Wolf Sebastian
Published: December 2017

We have quantified the potential capabilities of detecting local brightness asymmetries in circumstellar disks with the Very Large Telescope Interferometer (VLTI) in the mid-infrared wavelength range. The study is motivated by the need to evaluate theoretical models of planet formation by direct observations of protoplanets at early evolutionary stages, when they are still embedded in their host disk. Up to now, only a few embedded candidate protoplanets have been detected with semi-major axes of 20–50 au. Due to the small angular separation from their central star, only long-baseline interferometry provides the angular resolving power to detect disk asymmetries associated to protoplanets at solar system scales in nearby star-forming regions. In particular, infrared observations are crucial to observe scattered stellar radiation and thermal re-emission in the vicinity of embedded companions directly. For this purpose we performed radiative transfer simulations to calculate the thermal re-emission and scattered stellar flux from a protoplanetary disk hosting an embedded companion. Based on that, visibilities and closure phases are calculated to simulate observations with the future beam combiner MATISSE, operating at the L, M and N bands at the VLTI. We find that the flux ratio of the embedded source to the central star can be as low as 0.5 to 0.6% for a detection at a feasible significance level due to the heated dust in the vicinity of the embedded source. Furthermore, we find that the likelihood for detection is highest for sources at intermediate distances r ≈ 2–5 au and disk masses not higher than ≈10−4 M⊙.
N-Heterocyclic Carbene Catalyzed Asymmetric Synthesis of Dihydropyranothiazoles­ via Azolium Enolate Intermediates
Authors: Enders Dieter , Li Sun , Chen Xiang-Yu , Sheng He , von Essen Carolina , Rissanen Kari
Published: December 2017

A highly diastereo- and enantiostereoselective synthesis of bicyclic dihydropyranothiazoles combining a thiazole and δ-lactone skeleton via NHC-catalyzed [4+2] annulation of 5-alkenylthiazolones and α-chloroaldehydes has been developed. The heterocyclic products are formed via azolium enolate intermediates in good yields with high diastereo- and enantistereoselectivities.
Fibromyalgia Management with Homeopathy
Authors: Wandile Pranali
Published: December 2017

Fibromyalgia is one of the most common genetically inherited chronic affective spectrum disorders (ASD). Other ASD disorders are psychiatric and medical conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), migraine, cataplexy—attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, bulimia nervosa, dysthymic disorder, generalised anxiety disorder, major depressive disorder (MDD), obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, premenstrual dysphoric disorder, rheumatoid arthritis, and social phobia. Apart from genetic factors, neuroendocrine, autonomic nervous system abnormalities, psychosocial variables and environmental stressors contribute in the pathophysiology of fibromyalgia and other associated disorders. In this article, we reviewed etiology, pathophysiology, maintaining and triggering factors, and various treatment options for fibromyalgia. Apart from the pain management, this condition can be managed by ancillary method of treatment. However, due to the genetic cause of the disease, there is very little to offer for its complete cure. Homeopathic miasmatic treatment focuses on the genetic cause of the disease for its complete annihilation while also providing various acute remedies for the temporary pain management. We reviewed homeopathy treatment management and various remedies, which have much to offer for this chronic condition while considering its genetic, triggering and maintaining factors.
An Electronic Referral Initiative to Facilitate Referral to a Chronic Disease Self-Management Program for Persons with Transient Ischemic Attack
Authors: Kessler Dorothy , Afkham Amir , Bourgoin Aline , Gocan Sophia , Sivakumar Brammiya , Windsor Mary , Liddy Clare
Published: December 2017

Background Transient ischemic attack (TIA) is a strong predictor of subsequent stroke. Measures to decrease stroke incidence following TIA include medical management, risk factor optimization, and lifestyle modification. Best practice recommendations for stroke care promote individualized education on self-management across transitions from hospital to community settings. In the study region, patients with TIA are referred to the stroke prevention clinic where they receive rapid stroke assessment, risk factor management, education, and referral to risk reduction programs. Long-term management is typically the responsibility of primary care providers who may have limited resources for self-management support. Promotion of existing chronic disease self-management (CDSM) programs can complement this support.

Objective The objective of our project was to examine the feasibility and acceptability of an electronic referral system to an existing CDSM program to facilitate self-management support for persons with TIA.

Methods We performed a descriptive evaluation of a quality improvement project that involved development and implementation of a new electronic referral (eReferral) process. A partnership between the stroke prevention clinic and the regional Living Healthy CDSM program was developed alongside a clinical information system redesign implementing an eReferral system.

Results Referral to the Living Healthy CDSM program was offered to each patient at the stroke prevention clinic. Of 912 patients seen over a 6-month period, 62 (7%) agreed to be referred. Of these, 23 (37%) were registered or waitlisted.

Conclusion Formation of a partnership and implementation of the eReferral system facilitated referral to the Living Healthy CDSM program. Despite low referral and enrollment rates, the eReferral system provides one option to enhance self-management support for persons with TIA.
Who Is Safe to Extubate in the Neuroscience Intensive Care Unit?
Authors: Bösel Julian
Published: December 2017

Patients admitted to the neuroscience intensive care unit (NICU) may have respiratory compromise from either central or peripheral neurological pathology, and may hence require intubation and mechanical ventilation for very diverse reasons. Liberation from invasive ventilation, that is, extubation, at the earliest possible time is a widely accepted principle in intensive care. For this, classic extubation criteria have been established in the general critical care setting, mainly targeting pulmonary function and cooperativeness of the patient. However, classic extubation criteria have failed to predict successful extubation in many studies on NICU patients, and extubation failure (EF) rates range between ∼20 and 40% in these. Not necessarily impaired consciousness, but neurological impairment of securing the airway and handling secretions (dysphagia, low pharyngeal muscle tone, weak cough, etc.) may be mainly responsible for this dilemma. Attempts have been made to identify predictors of EF or success, and to establish extubation scores for the NICU, but results have been partially controversial and the database is still weak. It is very important to have a stepwise protocol to approach extubation in the NICU patient and to be prepared for reintubation (at times in a difficult airway) and alternatives (such as tracheostomy). The particular challenges of safely extubating the NICU patient will be the focus of this review, including a suggestion for a standardized approach.
The Snake: A Slithery Patient, Difficult to Grasp
Authors: Heijnen Denise , Leupen Alex
Published: December 2017

Alex Leupen has worked in the Homeopathic Doctors Centre in Utrecht, the Netherlands, since 1990. Nine colleagues work in this centre, including Jan Scholten. Alex is an experienced teacher (the Netherlands, Belgium and Germany) on the underlying systems in the plant families, animal kingdom, sarcodes, nosodes, fungi and the periodic table of the elements pertaining to homeopathic practice. In this column, he shares clinical tips.

This edition of his column is written together with veterinary surgeon Denise Heijnen.
Liebe Leserin, lieber Leser
Authors: Bergmann Günther , Ehrig Christian
Published: December 2017

„Balintgruppen und Interaktionelle Fallarbeit (IFA) im Dialog“ - unter diesem Thema erreicht Sie dieses Heft mit einem Editorial gemeinsam mit dem Vorsitzenden der Deutschen Ärztlichen Gesellschaft für Verhaltenstherapie (DÄVT), Christian Ehrig.
Magnesiummangel und Demenz
Authors: Kisters Klaus , Gröber Uwe
Published: December 2017

Demenzerkrankungen schränken die Lebensqualität und -erwartung deutlich ein. Eine Zunahme der Inzidenz in den nächsten Jahren ist zu erwarten. In der Prophylaxe verschiedener Demenzformen hat Magnesium einen besonderen Stellenwert, erste Studien belegen die Wirksamkeit des Minerals auch in der Therapie. Pathophysiologisch liegt der Wirkung im Wesentlichen ein Kalzium/Magesiumantagonismus zugrunde.
Glutamin in der Krebstherapie
Authors: Meyer Alfons
Published: December 2017

Glutamin ist die häufigste Aminosäure des Organismus und kommt in allen Geweben in hohen Konzentrationen vor. Im Gegensatz zur Glykolyse findet die Glutaminolyse nur unter aeroben Bedingungen in den Mitochondrien statt. Da Krebszellen ausschließlich Glukose zur Energiegewinnung nutzen und ihre Mitochondrien abgeschaltet bzw. defekt sind, ist eine Glutaminolyse kaum möglich. Die Wirkung von Glutamin auf das Tumorwachstum ist umstritten.