bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Canadian National Expert Consensus on Neoadjuvant Therapy for Breast Cancer: Linking Practice to Evidence and Beyond
Authors: Simmons C.E. , Hogeveen S. , Leonard R. , Rajmohan Y. , Han D. , Wong A. , Lee J. , Brackstone M. , Boileau J.F. , Dinniwell R. , Gandhi S.
Published: March 2015

Background: Use of the neoadjuvant approach to treat breast cancer patients has increased since the early 2000s, but the overall pathway of care for such patients can be highly variable. The aim of our project was to establish a multidisciplinary consensus among clinicians with expertise in neoadjuvant therapy (nat) for breast cancer and to determine if that consensus reflects published methods used in randomized controlled trials (rcts) in this area. Methods: A modified Delphi protocol, which used iterative surveys administered to 85 experts across Canada, was established to obtain expert consensus concerning all aspects of the care pathway for patients undergoing nat for breast cancer. All rcts published between January 1, 1967, and December 1, 2012, were systematically reviewed. Data extracted from the rcts were analyzed to determine if the methods used matched the expert consensus for specific areas of nat management. A scoring system determined the strength of the agreement between the literature and the expert consensus. Results: Consensus was achieved for all areas of the pathway of care for patients undergoing nat for breast cancer, with the exception of the role of magnetic resonance imaging in the pre-treatment or preoperative setting. The levels of agreement between the consensus statements and the published rcts varied, primarily because specific aspects of the pathway of care were not well described in the reviewed literature. Conclusions: A true consensus of expert opinion concerning the pathway of care appropriate for patients receiving nat for breast cancer has been achieved. A review of the literature illuminated gaps in the evidence about some elements of nat management. Where evidence is available, agreement with expert opinion is strong overall. Our study is unique in its approach to establishing consensus among medical experts in this field and has established a pathway of care that can be applied in practice for patients receiving nat.
Systemic Treatment Approaches in her2-Negative Advanced Breast Cancer—Guidance on the Guidelines
Authors: Joy A.A. , Ghosh M. , Fernandes R. , Clemons M.J.
Published: March 2015

Despite advancements in the treatment of early-stage breast cancer, many patients still develop disease recurrence; others present with de novo metastatic disease. For most patients with advanced breast cancer, the primary treatment intent is noncurative—that is, palliative—in nature. The goals of treatment should therefore focus on maximizing symptom control and extending survival. Treatments should be evaluated on an individualized basis in terms of evidence, but also with full respect for the wishes of the patient in terms of acceptable toxicity. Given the availability of extensive reviews on the roles of endocrine therapy and HER2 (human epidermal growth factor receptor 2)–targeted therapies for advanced disease, we focus here mainly on treatment guidelines for the non-endocrine management of HER2-negative advanced breast cancer in a Canadian health care context.
Economie des guerres civiles : la Syrie et le Liban transformés
Authors: Nahas Charbel
Published: March 2015

Avec le retour des discours guerriers et la multiplication des guerres civiles, une réflexion sur l’économie de guerre est devenue nécessaire, et des guerres civiles en particulier. Quelle rationalité commande le déclenchement et la poursuite des violences inter et intra étatiques ? Dans quelle mesure les effets réels des guerres sont-ils conformes aux objectifs annoncés de leurs protagonistes ? Pour son malheur, l’Orient s’est transformé en un vaste territoire de violence, matérielle et symbolique à la fois. Quelle place reste-t-il pour la raison ?
Grèce : barre à gauche toute ?
Authors: Chiclet Christophe
Published: March 2015

Le 25 janvier dernier, la gauche de la gauche, appelée « Coalition de la Gauche radicale » a remporté les élections législatives anticipées. Mais n’ayant obtenu la majorité absolue, elle s’est coalisée avec le parti souverainiste ANEL. Dépeint comme le mariage d’un parti d’extrême gauche avec un parti d’extrême droite, il n’en est rien. Il s’agit de deux forces politiques pragmatiques qui ont en commun de vouloir rejeter ce qu’elles estiment être un assujettissement du pays au diktat de la Troïka, composée de la Commission européenne, de la Banque centrale européenne et du Fonds monétaire international. Considérant que celle-ci n’est soumise à aucun contrôle démocratique, ni du parlement européen, ni des Etats souverains, leur combat leur semble juste. L’expérience grecque est suivie à la loupe par le reste de l’Europe.
Sex attribution, gender identity and quality of life in disorders of sex development due to 45,X/46,XY mosaicism: methods for clinical and psychosocial assessment
Authors: Risso Roberta , Einaudi Silvia , Crespi Chiara , Caldarera Angela , Verna Francesca , Merlini Emilio , Lala Roberto
Published: March 2015

The choice of sex in newborns with genital ambiguity is challenging. Information concerning the satisfaction of subjects with disorders of sex development from childhood to adulthood is required in order to address sex attribution policies. This study focuses on the methods that enable clinicians to investigate the alignment of phenotypes with gender identity and quality of life in people with disorders of this kind. These methods are presented as tools for studying a cohort of ten subjects with 45,X/46,XY mosaicism examined between 1985 and 2014 in the Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Regina Margherita Children's Hospital, Turin: five children and five young adults, four reared as females and six as males. Clinical outcome was assessed by means of a clinical scoring system considering height, genital appearance, gonads and pubertal development. The Gender Identity Questionnaire for Children and the World Health Organization Quality of Life assessment were adopted. The four male children strongly identified with their assigned sex: male attribution was satisfactory until pubertal age. In young adults the clinical scores ranged between 55–65% for both genders. In the young male, the reduced sexual activity and the poor body image perception strongly affected his quality of life. The clinical scores of the two young female adults (60% for both) were not balanced with their quality of life scores (87.5% and 68.75% respectively): individual traits and social-familial context should be investigated in order to explain these differences. Clinical and psychosocial assessment in people with disorders of sex development is mandatory in order to plan care procedures; a detailed analysis requires adequate tools. Clinical scoring system, Gender Identity Questionnaire for Children and World Health Organization Quality of Life assessment can be used to investigate the alignment of physical phenotype with gender identity and quality of life.
Sedimentology and stratigraphy of the type section of the Pennsylvanian Boss Point Formation, Joggins Fossil Cliffs, Nova Scotia, Canada
Authors: Rygel Michael C. , Lally Corinne , Gibling Martin R. , Ielpi Alessandro , Calder John H. , Bashforth Arden R.
Published: March 2015

The 1125-m-thick type section of the Pennsylvanian Boss Point Formation is well exposed along the shore of the Bay of Fundy in Nova Scotia. We provide the first comprehensive account of the entirety of this formation, which comprises nearly one-third of the stratigraphic thickness of the Joggins Fossil Cliffs UNESCO World Heritage Site. The basal Chignecto Bay Member (0–91.5 m) is composed of redbeds, single-storey channel bodies with northerly paleoflow, and thin palustrine limestones. The middle Ward Point Member (91.5–951.7 m) contains up to 16 megacycles composed of alternations between thick packages of braided fluvial sandstone and fine-grained deposits. Although regional studies of the Boss Point Formation suggest that the fine-grained deposits are largely composed of lacustrine sediments, these intervals consist largely of poorly drained and well-drained floodplain deposits in the type section. The facies variations and southeast-directed paleoflow in the Ward Point Member record modest uplift associated with the growth of the salt-cored Minudie Anticline. The North Reef Member (951.7–1125 m) is composed of redbeds and two distinctive multistorey channel bodies. This uppermost member records a shift to more arid, oxidizing conditions, was the precursor to a major phase of salt withdrawal, and represents a transition to the overlying Little River Formation. The sedimentological framework, revised stratigraphy, and detailed measured section and map will provide a foundation for future study of this remarkable Pennsylvanian exposure.
Resident Perceptions of Giving and Receiving Peer-to-Peer Feedback
Authors: de la Cruz Maria Syl D. , Kopec Michael T. , Wimsatt Leslie A.
Published: March 2015

Background

Peer feedback is increasingly being used by residency programs to provide an added dimension to the assessment process. Studies show that peer feedback is useful, uniquely informative, and reliable compared to other types of assessments. Potential barriers to implementation include insufficient training/preparation, negative consequences for working relationships, and a perceived lack of benefit.

Objective

We explored the perceptions of residents involved in peer-to-peer feedback, focusing on factors that influence accuracy, usefulness, and application of the information.

Methods

Family medicine residents at the University of Michigan who were piloting an online peer assessment tool completed a brief survey to offer researchers insight into the peer feedback process. Focus groups were conducted to explore residents' perceptions that are most likely to affect giving and receiving peer feedback.

Results

Survey responses were provided by 28 of 30 residents (93%). Responses showed that peer feedback provided useful (89%, 25 of 28) and unique (89%, 24 of 27) information, yet only 59% (16 of 27) reported that it benefited their training. Focus group participants included 21 of 29 eligible residents (72%). Approaches to improve residents' ability to give and accept feedback included preparatory training, clearly defined goals, standardization, fewer and more qualitatively oriented encounters, 1-on-1 delivery, immediacy of timing, and cultivation of a feedback culture.

Conclusions

Residents perceived feedback as important and offered actionable suggestions to enhance accuracy, usefulness, and application of the information shared. The findings can be used to inform residency programs that are interested in creating a meaningful peer feedback process.
Can Tablet Computers Enhance Faculty Teaching?
Authors: Narayan Aditee P. , Whicker Shari A. , Benjamin Robert W. , Hawley Jeffrey , McGann Kathleen A.
Published: March 2015

Background

Learner benefits of tablet computer use have been demonstrated, yet there is little evidence regarding faculty tablet use for teaching.

Objective

Our study sought to determine if supplying faculty with tablet computers and peer mentoring provided benefits to learners and faculty beyond that of non–tablet-based teaching modalities.

Methods

We provided faculty with tablet computers and three 2-hour peer-mentoring workshops on tablet-based teaching. Faculty used tablets to teach, in addition to their current, non–tablet-based methods. Presurveys, postsurveys, and monthly faculty surveys assessed feasibility, utilization, and comparisons to current modalities. Learner surveys assessed perceived effectiveness and comparisons to current modalities. All feedback received from open-ended questions was reviewed by the authors and organized into categories.

Results

Of 15 eligible faculty, 14 participated. Each participant attended at least 2 of the 3 workshops, with 10 to 12 participants at each workshop. All participants found the workshops useful, and reported that the new tablet-based teaching modality added value beyond that of current teaching methods. Respondents developed the following tablet-based outputs: presentations, photo galleries, evaluation tools, and online modules. Of the outputs, 60% were used in the ambulatory clinics, 33% in intensive care unit bedside teaching rounds, and 7% in inpatient medical unit bedside teaching rounds. Learners reported that common benefits of tablet computers were: improved access/convenience (41%), improved interactive learning (38%), and improved bedside teaching and patient care (13%). A common barrier faculty identified was inconsistent wireless access (14%), while no barriers were identified by the majority of learners.

Conclusions

Providing faculty with tablet computers and having peer-mentoring workshops to discuss their use was feasible and added value.
Piloting a Structured Practice Audit to Assess ACGME Milestones in Written Handoff Communication in Internal Medicine
Authors: Martin Shannon K. , Farnan Jeanne M. , McConville John F. , Arora Vineet M.
Published: March 2015

Background

Written communication skills are integral to patient care handoffs. Residency programs require feasible assessment tools that provide timely formative and summative feedback, ideally linked to the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education Milestones.

Objective

We describe the use of 1 such tool—UPDATED—to assess written handoff communication skills in internal medicine interns.

Methods

During 2012–2013, the authors piloted a structured practice audit at 1 academic institution to audit written sign-outs completed by 45 interns, using the UPDATED tool, which scores 7 aspects of sign-out communication linked to milestones. Intern sign-outs were audited by trained faculty members throughout the year. Results were incorporated into intern performance reviews and Clinical Competency Committees.

Results

A total of 136 sign-outs were audited (averaging 3.1 audits per intern). In the first trimester, 14 interns (31%) had satisfactory audit results. Five interns (11%) had critical deficiencies and received immediate feedback, and the remaining 26 (58%) were assigned future audits due to missing audits or unsatisfactory scores. In the second trimester, 21 interns (68%) had satisfactory results, 1 had critical deficiencies, and 9 (29%) required future audits. Nine of the 10 remaining interns in the final trimester had satisfactory audits. Faculty time was estimated at 10 to 15 minutes per sign-out audited.

Conclusions

The UPDATED audit is a milestone-based tool that can be used to assess written sign-out communication skills in internal medicine residency programs. Future work is planned to adapt the tool for use by senior supervisory residents to appraise sign-outs in real time.
Branchial Fistulas—A Rare Entity in Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology: Current Management Protocols and Review of Literature
Authors: Naik Sudhir M , Goutham MK , Bhat Ravishankar S , Appaji Mohan , Chidananda KV , Devi Nongthomban Pinky , Joseph Sherry , Nayak Pooja , Bhat Shankarnarayan
Published: March 2015

Background/objectives

Surgical managements which form the mainstay of these branchial apparatus anomalies are based on accurate understanding of the embryology and surgical anatomy. The conspicuous scarring in the young which becomes conspicuous as the age advances are reduced by newer approaches, the facelift approach, retroauricular approach and endoscope-assisted neck approach.

Case report

A retrospective case series analysis of eight patients with complete fistula managed by the combined trans cervical approach. The recurrence was nil, with good surgical access and minimal scar at the incision site.

Conclusion

Combined transcervical approach is the conventional procedure of choice for branchial fistulas. While retroauricular hairline incision (RAHI) approach and endo-scopic approaches need expertise and more instrumentation, meticulous cosmetic surgery techniques helps reduces scars of the transcervical approach.

How to cite this article

Bhat RS, Naik SM, Goutham MK, Bhat S, Appaji M, Chidananda KV, Devi NP, Joseph S, Nayak P. Branchial Fistulas—A Rare Entity in Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology: Current Management Protocols and Review of Literature. Int J Head Neck Surg 2014;5(3):108-111.
Asymptomatic Occipital Area Infarction following Carotid Body Paraganglioma Excision
Authors: Naik Sudhir M , Goutham MK , Rao Vishal , Bhat Ravishankar S , Appaji Mohan , Bhat Shankarnarayan , Hiremat Rudresh , Rangnath Navya
Published: March 2015

Background

Vascular complications are seen in 2 to 13% of cases with internal carotid artery (ICA) injuries with or without reconstruction. The hypoglossal and vagus appeared most vulnerable for permanent paralysis due to traction or resection. Mortality with surgical excision of carotid body tumor (CBT) has become negligible with newer vascular surgical techniques and the morbidity has fallen to minimal 2.56%.

Case report

We report a case of 24-year-old female with symptomatic CBT excision with external carotid artery (ECA) ligation. She developed asymptomatic infarction of the occipital lobe. All the cranial nerves were intact with a follow-up uneventful for the past 2 years.

Conclusion

Minimizing complications in CBT surgery include an accurate preoperative imaging assessment of the tumor with comorbidities and evidence-based management.

How to cite this article

Rao V, Naik SM, Goutham MK, Appaji M, Bhat S, Hiremat R, Rangnath N, Bhat RSS. Asymptomatic Occipital Area Infarction following Carotid Body Paraganglioma Excision. Int J Head Neck Surg 2014;5(3):148-151.
Life-threatening Cardiac Failure: A Rare Complication of Branchial Cleft Cyst
Authors: Yam Shi Da Felix , Fung Tak Lit Derek , Tang Lap Chiu Donald
Published: March 2015

Branchial cleft cyst is a well-known head and neck anomaly. Patients commonly presented with cosmetic problems. Complications including pressure symptoms, pain and superimposed infection have been reported. Rarely, it could present with carotid sinus syndrome.

Case report

We reported a case who presented with vasovagal syncope and cardiogenic shock was found to have huge branchial cleft cyst. Carotid sinus syndrome secondary to compression by the branchial cyst was suspected. It was managed with inotropic support and needle decompression. She later readmitted for superimposed infection which was treated by antibiotics. Surgical excision was performed to render her complete cure. This was the second reported case of a benign branchial cleft cyst causing cardiac compromise in the literature.

Conclusion

Benign branchial cleft cyst may present with lifethreatening carotid sinus syndrome. Timely needle decompression should be performed for temporary relieve and definitive surgery is required for cure.

How to cite this article

Yam SDF, Fung TLD, Tang LCD. Life-threatening Cardiac Failure: A Rare Complication of Branchial Cleft Cyst. Int J Head Neck Surg 2014;5(3):158-160.
Management Dilemma in a Challenging Case of Inflammatory Pseudotumor of an Orbitomaxillary Mass: A Review of Literature
Authors: Shah Pratik Dipak , Mukherji Srijon
Published: March 2015

Objective

To present management dilemma in a challenging case of a benign orbitomaxillary pseudotumor and its importance of inclusion in the differential diagnosis of orbital disorders.

Setting

Private multispecialty hospital in Kolkata, West Bengal.

Patient

A 36-year-old female patient with 1 year history of orbitomaxillary mass, deviation and protrusion of left eyeball, diplopia and left sided headache.

Results

Resection of entire orbitomaxillary mass performed after assessing history, clinical and radiologic presentation of the case. Biopsy report came as mixed inflammatory lesion. Appropriate surgical intervention resulted in a dramatic improvement in patient's clinical condition. At present, patient is disease-free and asymptomatic.

Conclusion

Complete surgical resection is the treatment of choice for inflammatory orbitomaxillary pseudotumors followed by corticosteroids in case of incomplete resection. Radiation therapy is indicated only in case when corticosteroids or surgical intervention is unsuccessful or contraindicated.

How to cite this article

Shah PD, Mukherji S. Management Dilemma in a Challenging Case of Inflammatory Pseudotumor of an Orbitomaxillary Mass: A Review of Literature. Int J Otorhinolaryngol Clin 2014;6(2):61-64.
Glial Heterotopia of Sphenoid in Association with a Patent Sternberg's Canal presenting with Meningitis
Authors: Ramachandran K , Suma R , Jeena KJ , Pavithran VM , Govindan A
Published: March 2015

Ectopic glial tissue, presenting at various sites of body is a rare embryonic developmental anomaly. Very few cases are reported in adults, most being incidentally detected, revealed only by histopathological findings. One of the rarest locations is the sphenoid sinus.

We present here the case of a middle aged female, presenting with spontaneous cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) rhinorrhea and meningitis. With the radiological finding of a soft tissue density in sphenoid sinus with erosion of left temporal skull base, she underwent lateral craniotomy, with excision of the mass and middle cranial fossa floor repair. Histopathology revealed a heterotopic glial tissue. Peroperative finding of a well-defined defect in the lateral wall of an extensively pneumatized sphenoid showed typical features of a patent Sternberg's canal.

This case could be a living proof for the existence of this rare developmental anomaly. A persisting Sternberg's canal should be considered as the source of spontaneous CSF leaks with or without lesions in sphenoid sinuses with extensive lateral pneumatization. Most of the cases may be treated with an extended endoscopic approach. Extreme lateral lesions like this would benefit most from a craniotomy approach for proper closure of skullbase defect. Three years after successful surgery, she remains symptom free.

How to cite this article

Suma R, Jeena KJ, Pavithran VM, Govindan A, Ramachandran K. Glial Heterotopia of Sphenoid in Association with a Patent Sternberg's Canal presenting with Meningitis. Int J Otorhinolaryngol Clin 2014;6(2):81-83.
Biological efficiency profiles over the lactation period in multiparous high-producing dairy cows under divergent production systems
Authors: Ross S. A. , Chagunda M. G. G. , Topp C. F. E. , Ennos R.
Published: March 2015

Abstract. The study examined variation in energetic-efficiency profiles among production systems and cow parities. Further, the correlation between cows' body condition score (BCS) and energetic efficiency over the lactation period was determined. Biological efficiency was defined using four measures of production efficiency and two measures of energetic efficiency. The following were measures of energetic efficiency: the net energy intake required to produce 1 kg milk solids (NEin / MS) and the proportion of net energy utilized for milk production after accounting for maintenance (NElact / (NEin- NEm)). Seven years of data were gathered from a total of 595 Holstein-Friesian cows in a long-term genetics × feeding–management interaction project. Two feeding regimes – High forage (HF) and Low forage (LF) – were applied to each of two genetic lines (Control (C) and Select (S)), giving four dairy production systems: Low Forage Control (LFC), Low Forage Select (LFS), High Forage Control (HFC) and High Forage Select (HFS). LFS was the most efficient system using all measures. Variation in the rate and scale of change at which the cows' energetic efficiency declined over lactation was significantly different (P < 0.001) amongst different dairy production systems and parities. Loss of efficiency over the lactation period was lower in Select cows than in Control cows and increased with parity. The trajectory of energetic-efficiency profiles was influenced by cow genetic line, and yet the level of the efficiency profile was influenced by the feeding regime. There was a strong relationship between BCS and energetic efficiency. Continued in situ monitoring of cows' biological efficiency may enable optimal management of dairy systems.
The role of semi-volatile organic compounds in the mesoscale evolution of biomass burning aerosol: a modelling case study of the 2010 mega-fire event in Russia
Authors: Konovalov I. B. , Beekmann M. , Berezin E. V. , Petetin H. , Mielonen T. , Kuznetsova I. N. , Andreae M. O.
Published: March 2015

Abstract. Chemistry transport models (CTMs) are an indispensable tool for studying and predicting atmospheric and climate effects associated with carbonaceous aerosol from open biomass burning (BB); this type of aerosol is known to contribute significantly to both global radiative forcing and to episodes of air pollution in regions affected by wildfires. Improving model performance requires systematic comparison of simulation results with measurements of BB aerosol and elucidating possible reasons for discrepancies between them, which, "by default", are frequently attributed in the literature to uncertainties in emission data. Based on published laboratory data regarding atmospheric evolution of BB aerosol and by using the volatility basis set (VBS) approach to organic aerosol modeling along with a "conventional" approach, we examined the importance of taking gas-particle partitioning and oxidation of semi-volatile organic compounds (SVOCs) into account in simulations of the mesoscale evolution of smoke plumes from intense wildfires that occurred in western Russia in 2010. BB emissions of primary aerosol components were constrained with the PM10 and CO data from the air pollution monitoring network in the Moscow region. The results of the simulations performed with the CHIMERE CTM were evaluated by considering, in particular, the ratio of smoke-related enhancements in PM10 and CO concentrations (ΔPM10 and ΔCO) measured in Finland (in the city of Kuopio), nearly 1000 km downstream of the fire emission sources. It is found that while the conventional approach (disregarding oxidation of SVOCs and assuming organic aerosol material to be non-volatile) strongly underestimates values of ΔPM10/ΔCO observed in Kuopio (by almost a factor of two), the VBS approach is capable to bring the simulations to a reasonable agreement with the ground measurements both in Moscow and in Kuopio. Using the VBS instead of the conventional approach is also found to result in a major improvement of the agreement of simulations and satellite measurements of aerosol optical depth, as well as in considerable changes in predicted aerosol composition and top-down BB aerosol emission estimates derived from AOD measurements.
Fe and C co-limitation of heterotrophic bacteria in the naturally fertilized region off the Kerguelen Islands
Authors: Obernosterer I. , Fourquez M. , Blain S.
Published: March 2015

Abstract. It has been univocally shown that iron (Fe) is the primary limiting nutrient for phytoplankton metabolism in high-nutrient, low-chlorophyll (HNLC) waters, yet the question of how this trace metal affects heterotrophic microbial activity is far less understood. We investigated the role of Fe for bacterial heterotrophic production and growth at three contrasting sites in the naturally Fe-fertilized region east of the Kerguelen Islands and at one site in HNLC waters during the KEOPS2 (Kerguelen Ocean and Plateau Compared Study 2) cruise in spring 2011. We performed dark incubations of natural microbial communities amended either with iron (Fe, as FeCl3) or carbon (C, as trace-metal clean glucose), or a combination of both, and followed bacterial abundance and heterotrophic production for up to 7 days. Our results show that single and combined additions of Fe and C stimulated bulk and cell-specific bacterial production at the Fe-fertilized sites, while in HNLC waters only combined additions resulted in significant increases in these parameters. Bacterial abundance was enhanced in two out of the three experiments performed in Fe-fertilized waters but did not respond to Fe or C additions in HNLC waters. Our results provide evidence that both Fe and C are present at limiting concentrations for bacterial heterotrophic activity in the naturally fertilized region off the Kerguelen Islands in spring, while bacteria were co-limited by these elements in HNLC waters. These results shed new light on the role of Fe in bacterial heterotrophic metabolism in regions of the Southern Ocean that receive variable Fe inputs.
Optimal Ranking Regime analysis of TreeFlow dendrohydrological reconstructions
Authors: Mauget S. A.
Published: March 2015

Abstract. The Optimal Ranking Regime (ORR) method was used to identify 6–100 year time windows containing significant ranking sequences in 55 western US streamflow reconstructions, and reconstructions of the level of the Great Salt Lake and San Francisco Bay salinity during 1500–2007. The method's ability to identify optimally significant and non-overlapping runs of low and high rankings allows it to re-express a reconstruction time series as a simplified sequence of regime segments marking intra- to multi-decadal (IMD) periods of low or high streamflow, lake level, or salinity. Those ORR sequences, referred to here as Z lines, can be plotted to identify consistent regime patterns in the analysis of numerous reconstructions. The Z lines for the 57 reconstructions evaluated here show a common pattern of IMD cycles of drought and pluvial periods during the late 16th and 17th centuries, a relatively dormant period during the 18th century, and the reappearance of alternating dry and wet IMD periods during the 19th and early 20th centuries. Although this pattern suggests the possibility of similarly active and inactive oceanic modes in the North Pacific and North Atlantic, such centennial-scale patterns are not evident in the ORR analyses of reconstructed Pacific Decadal Oscillation (PDO), El Niño–Southern Oscillation, and North Atlantic seas-surface temperature variation. But given the inconsistency in the analyses of four PDO reconstructions the possible role of centennial-scale oceanic mechanisms is uncertain. In future research the ORR method might be applied to climate reconstructions around the Pacific Basin to try to resolve this uncertainty. Given its ability to compare regime patterns in climate reconstructions derived using different methods and proxies, the method may also be used in future research to evaluate long-term regional temperature reconstructions.
In situ autonomous optical radiometry measurements for satellite ocean color validation in the Western Black Sea
Authors: Zibordi G. , Mélin F. , Berthon J.-F. , Talone M.
Published: March 2015

Abstract. The accuracy of primary satellite ocean color data products from the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer on-board Aqua (MODIS-A) and the Visible/Infrared Imager/Radiometer Suite (VIIRS) is investigated in the Western Black Sea using in situ measurements from the Gloria site included in the ocean color component of the Aerosol Robotic Network (AERONET-OC). The analysis is also extended to an additional well-established AERONET-OC site in the northern Adriatic Sea characterized by optically complex coastal waters exhibiting similarities to those observed at the Gloria site. Results from the comparison of normalized water-leaving radiance LWN indicate biases of a few percent between satellite-derived and in situ data at the center wavelengths relevant for the determination of chlorophyll a concentrations (443–547 nm, or equivalent). Remarkable is the consistency between the annual cycle determined with time series of satellite-derived and in situ LWN ratios at these center wavelengths. Contrarily, the differences between in situ and satellite-derived LWN are pronounced at the blue (i.e., 412 nm) and red (i.e., 667 nm, or equivalent) center wavelengths, confirming difficulties in confidently applying satellite-derived radiometric data from these spectral regions for quantitative analysis in optically complex waters.
Tax rulings in Nederland: much ado about nothing of verboden staatssteun? Het onderzoek naar Starbucks juridisch geduid
Authors: Buelens H. , Jansen P.
Published: March 2015

Tax rulings in Nederland: much ado about nothing of verboden staatssteun? Het onderzoek naar Starbucks juridisch geduid

Op 11 juni 2014 heeft de Europese Commissie een formeel onderzoek ingesteld naar de door de Nederlandse belastingdienst afgegeven tax ruling aan koffieketen Starbucks. De Commissie heeft ernstige twijfels omtrent de verenigbaarheid van wat werd overeengekomen in deze ruling met de Europese staatssteunregels. De uiteindelijke uitkomst van deze zaak is vanuit het oogpunt van tax planning van een niet te onderschatten belang. Zij zal namelijk iets kunnen zeggen over de beleidsmarge die de Commissie de belastingdienst laat wanneer zij in concrete situaties invulling geeft aan de beginselen voor transfer pricing, zoals neergelegd in de Nederlandse belastingwetgeving en de OESO-regels.

Openingsbesluit van de Europese Commissie SA.38374 (2014/C) (Nederland) van 11 juni 2014
Hof van Justitie neemt prijswijzigingsbedingen jegens consumenten onder vuur
Authors: Knops H.P.A.
Published: March 2015

Hof van Justitie neemt prijswijzigingsbedingen jegens consumenten onder vuur

Bij overeenkomsten voor onbepaalde tijd hanteert de verkoper/dienstverlener vaak een beding dat hem in staat stelt om eenzijdig de voorwaarden of tarieven te wijzigen. Dat brengt de consument in een zwakke positie. In twee recente zaken over leveringsovereenkomsten voor energie (C-92/11, RWE Vertrieb, en C-359/11 en C-400/11, Alexandra Schulz) heeft het Hof van Justitie meer duidelijkheid gegeven over de voorwaarden waaronder een wijzigingsbeding en de prijswijzigingen zelf acceptabel zijn volgens de Europese regels voor consumentenbescherming. Bij (vrije) contracten moet er vooraf duidelijkheid verschaft worden over de criteria voor eventuele prijswijzigingen. Bovendien moeten de wijzigingen zelf vóór inwerkingtreding gemeld worden aan de consument en moet er een daadwerkelijke mogelijkheid zijn om op te zeggen of over te stappen.

In dit artikel worden beide arresten besproken en kritisch tegen het licht gehouden.

HvJ 21 maart 2013, zaak C-92/11, RWE Vertrieb AG/Verbraucherzentrale Nordrhein-Westfalen e.V., ECLI:EU:C:2013:180, n.n.g. en HvJ 23 oktober 2014, gevoegde zaken C-359/11 en C-400/11, Technische Werke Schussental GmbH und Co KG/Alexandra Schulz en Josef Egbringhoff/Stadtwerke Ahaus GmbH, ECLI:EU:C:2014:2317, n.n.g.
Toerekening van giften door een in de wettelijke gemeenschap van goederen gehuwde schenker
Authors: Maasland J.L.D.J.
Published: March 2015

Toerekening van giften door een in de wettelijke gemeenschap van goederen gehuwde schenker

Op 21 oktober 2014 heeft het Gerechtshof Arnhem-Leeuwarden een arrest gewezen over de toerekening van giften, die worden gedaan door een schenker die in de wettelijke gemeenschap van goederen is gehuwd. In deze bijdrage bespreekt de auteur het arrest en de implicaties hiervan voor de toerekening van giften in het kader van de legitieme portie en inbreng in de nalatenschap. Ook bespreekt de auteur de fiscale behandeling van giften die worden gedaan door een schenker die in de wettelijke gemeenschap van goederen is gehuwd.
Erfrecht in de onderwereld (deel 1)
Authors: van der Geld L.A.G.M.
Published: March 2015

Erfrecht in de onderwereld (deel 1)

De auteur vraagt zich naar aanleiding van de recente liquidaties in Amsterdam af wat de gevolgen zijn van een nalatenschap die zich afspeelt in de onderwereld. In twee delen onderzoekt zij de gevolgen van het tot de nalatenschap behoren van goederen die een relatie hebben met een misdrijf. In het eerste deel worden de voor het erfrecht relevante bepalingen uit het strafrecht verkend. Wat moeten de erfgenamen en hun adviseurs doen als zij met zo’n nalatenschap te maken krijgen?
Algorithms for the Hypergraph and the Minor Crossing Number Problems
Authors: Chimani Markus , Gutwenger Carsten
Published: March 2015

We consider the problems of hypergraph and minor crossing minimization, and point out relationships between these two problems that have not been exploited before. In the first part of this paper, we present new complexity results regarding the corresponding edge and vertex insertion problems. Based thereon, we present the first planarization-based heuristics for hypergraph and minor crossing minimization. Furthermore, we show how to apply these techniques to hypergraphs arising in real-world electrical circuits. The experiments in this paper show the applicability and strength of this planarization approach, considering established benchmark sets from electrical network design. In particular, we show that our heuristics lead to roughly 40-70% less crossings compared to the state-of-the-art algorithms for drawing electrical circuits.
A Distributed Algorithm for Minimum Distance-k Domination in Trees
Authors: Turau Volker , Köhler Sven
Published: March 2015

While efficient algorithms for finding minimal distance-k dominating sets exist, finding minimum such sets is NP-hard even for bipartite graphs. This paper presents a distributed algorithm to determine a minimum (connected) distance-k dominating set and a maximum distance-2k independent set of a tree T. It terminates in O(height(T)) rounds and uses O(logk) space. To the best of our knowledge this is the first distributed algorithm that computes a minimum (as opposed to a minimal) distance-k dominating set for trees. The algorithm can also be applied to general graphs, albeit the distance-k dominating sets are not necessarily minimal.
Le libre accès aux articles scientifiques : référentiels, principes, normes et modalités
Authors: Bernatchez Jean
Published: March 2015

Cet article propose une mise en contexte conceptuelle et politique de l’enjeu du libre accès aux articles scientifiques. Les deux référentiels concurrents qui conditionnent l’action publique dans le secteur de la science sont présentés : le référentiel de l’économie du savoir (OCDE 1996) et celui des sociétés du savoir (UNESCO 2005). Les principes du libre accès aux articles scientifiques sont définis, en explicitant ce qui caractérise un bien public selon la typologie de l’économiste Hugon (2003), qui propose deux conceptions doctrinales rivales pour rendre compte du phénomène : la conception minimaliste et la conception maximaliste. Les normes proposées par le sociologue Merton (1973), constituant l’ethos de la science, sont rappelées : universalisme, communalisme, désintéressement, scepticisme et humilité. Les modalités du libre accès aux articles scientifiques, entre autres grâce à la typologie d’Harnad et de ses collègues (2004), sont décrites : voie verte, voie dorée et voie platine.
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Young Heather , Knepper Bryan , Hernandez Whitney , Shor Asaf , Bruntz Merribeth , Berg Chrystal , Price Connie S.
Published: March 2015

Background

Pseudomonas aeruginosa has traditionally been considered a common pathogen in diabetic foot infection (DFI), yet the 2012 Infectious Diseases Society of America guideline for DFI states that “empiric therapy directed at P aeruginosa is usually unnecessary.” The objective of this study was to evaluate the frequency of P aeruginosa isolated from bone or tissue cultures from patients with DFI.

Methods

This study is a cross-sectional survey of diabetic patients presenting with a foot infection to an urban county hospital between July 1, 2012, and December 31, 2013. All of the patients had at least one debridement procedure during which tissue or bone cultures from operative or bedside debridements were obtained. The χ2 test and the t test of means were used to determine relationships between variables and the frequency of P aeruginosa in culture.

Results

The median number of bacteria isolated from DFI was two. Streptococcus spp and Staphylococcus aureus were the most commonly isolated organisms; P aeruginosa was isolated in only five of 112 patients (4.5%). The presence of P aeruginosa was not associated with the patient's age, glycosylated hemoglobin level, tobacco abuse, the presence of osteomyelitis, a prescription for antibiotic drugs in the preceding 3 months, or the type of operative procedure.

Conclusions

Pseudomonas aeruginosa was an infrequent isolate from DFI in this urban, underserved diabetic population. The presence of P aeruginosa was not associated with any measured risk factors. By introducing a clinical practice guideline, we hope to discourage frontline providers from using routine antipseudomonal antibiotic drugs for DFI.
Acral Lentiginous Melanoma of the Foot Misdiagnosed as a Traumatic Ulcer
Authors: Gumaste Priyanka , Penn Lauren , Cohen Nicole , Berman Russell , Pavlick Anna , Polsky David
Published: March 2015

The incidence of cutaneous melanoma is rising faster than that of almost any other cancer in the United States. Acral lentiginous melanoma is a subtype of melanoma that involves the palms, soles, and nail beds. Although it is one of the rarer types of melanoma, it has a poorer prognosis than other more common subtypes. We describe a case of plantar acral melanoma in a 66-year-old woman that was initially misdiagnosed as a traumatic foot ulcer. We highlight this case to emphasize the importance of close observation and biopsy of ulcerative lesions of the foot that have atypical features or are refractory to standard treatment.
The Role of Podiatric Medicine in the Health-Care Team
Authors: Levy Leonard A.
Published: March 2015

As physicians, podiatric medical doctors should not define themselves as medical professionals who treat the foot and ankle but rather as medical professionals who prevent, diagnose, and treat people who have foot and ankle problems. Patients who come to see podiatric physicians often have other health-care issues, and because of the education and training that doctors of podiatric medicine receive, they are uniquely qualified to identify and respond to findings not only related to the pedal extremity but also that may affect overall health, have a major effect on quality of life, and even help reduce overall health-care costs. The role of podiatric medicine as a truly integrated branch of medical care needs to be reassessed.
Nonmigrating tidal signature in the distributions of equatorial plasma bubbles and prereversal enhancement
Authors: Kil Hyosub , Kwak Young‐Sil , Lee Woo Kyoung , Krall Jonathan , Huba Joseph D. , Oh Seung‐Jun
Published: March 2015

Some wave‐like features in the longitudinal distribution of equatorial plasma bubbles understood in association with diurnal eastward propagating zonal wave number 3 nonmigrating tide (DE3) in the dayside. However, whether or not the wave features are the daytime DE3 signature has not yet been rigorously investigated. This study investigates (1) the existence of the DE3 signature in the longitudinal distribution of bubbles by analyzing the first Republic of China (ROCSAT‐1) satellite data acquired in 2000–2002 and (2) the role of daytime DE3 in the creation of bubbles by examining the linear growth rate of the generalized Rayleigh‐Taylor (R‐T) instability. The linear growth rate is derived from the “Sami2 is Another Model of the Ionosphere” model simulation results. In the longitudinal distribution of bubbles derived from ROCSAT‐1 observations, the wave number 4 component, the representative characteristic of DE3, is a weak feature. In addition, the amplitude and phase of the wave number 4 component do not show a consistent behavior in comparison with those of DE3. Our numerical calculation results show that the linear growth rate of the R‐T instability is not sensitive to the variation of the daytime vertical plasma drift. These results indicate that the DE3 signature in the occurrence rate of bubbles is not obvious and the effect of daytime DE3 on the creation of bubbles is negligible.
Six hundred thirty‐eight years of summer temperature variability over the Bhutanese Himalaya
Authors: Krusic P. J. , Cook E. R. , Dukpa D. , Putnam A. E. , Rupper S. , Schaefer J.
Published: March 2015

High‐resolution tree ring reconstructions from the Himalaya provide essential context for assessing impacts of future climate change on regional water reserves and downstream agriculture. Here we evaluate a small network of tree ring chronologies from Bhutan to produce a 638 year summer temperature reconstruction, from 1376–2013 (Common Era) C.E. Relative to the 1950–2013 C.E. average summer temperature three prominent cold periods stand out, two in the midfifteenth century, and one in the late seventeenth century. The warmest period began in the first decade of the 21st century coinciding with the timing of general glacier recession in the eastern Himalaya that continues to the present. The Bhutan temperature reconstruction exhibits a significant correlation to known volcanic eruptions (p = 97%) and anomalously cold periods appear to align with solar irradiance minima in the fifteenth, late seventeenth, and early nineteenth centuries, implying a link between solar variability and decadal‐scale temperature variability.
Magnetosheath plasma stability and ULF wave occurrence as a function of location in the magnetosheath and upstream bow shock parameters
Authors: Soucek Jan , Escoubet C. Philippe , Grison Benjamin
Published: March 2015

We present the results of a statistical study of the distribution of mirror and Alfvén‐ion cyclotron (AIC) waves in the magnetosheath together with plasma parameters important for the stability of ULF waves, specifically ion temperature anisotropy and ion beta. Magnetosheath crossings registered by Cluster spacecraft over the course of 2 years served as a basis for the statistics. For each observation we used bow shock, magnetopause, and magnetosheath flow models to identify the relative position of the spacecraft with respect to magnetosheath boundaries and local properties of the upstream shock crossing. A strong dependence of both plasma parameters and mirror/AIC wave occurrence on upstream ΘBn and MA is identified. We analyzed a joint dependence of the same parameters on ΘBn and fractional distance between shock and magnetopause, zenith angle, and length of the flow line. Finally, the occurrence of mirror and AIC modes was compared against the respective instability thresholds. We noted that AIC waves occurred nearly exclusively under mirror stable conditions. This is interpreted in terms of different characters of nonlinear saturation of the two modes.
Solar cycle dependence of substorm occurrence and duration: Implications for onset
Authors: Chu Xiangning , McPherron Robert L. , Hsu Tung‐Shin , Angelopoulos Vassilis
Published: March 2015

Magnetospheric substorms represent a major energy release process in Earth's magnetosphere. Their duration and intensity are coupled to solar wind input, but the precise way the solar wind energy is stored and then released is a matter of considerable debate. Part of the observational difficulty has been the gaps in the auroral electrojet index traditionally used to study substorm properties. In this study, we created a midlatitude positive bay (MPB) index to measure the strength of the substorm current wedge. Because this index is based on midlatitude magnetometer data that are available continuously over several decades, we can assemble a database of substorm onsets lasting 31 years (1982–2012). We confirmed that the MPB onsets have a good agreement (±2 min) with auroral onsets as determined by optical means on board the IMAGE mission and that the MPB signature of substorms is robust and independent of the stations' position relative to ionospheric currents. Using the MPB onset, expansion, and recovery as a proxy of the respective substorm quantities, we found that the solar cycle variation of substorm occurrence depends on solar wind conditions and has a most probable value of 80 min. In contrast, the durations of substorm expansion and recovery phases do not change with the solar cycle. This suggests that the frequency of energy unloading in the magnetosphere is controlled by solar wind conditions through dayside reconnection, but the unloading process related to flux pileup in the near‐Earth region is controlled by the magnetosphere and independent of external driving.