bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Triples of orthogonal Latin and Youden rectangles for small orders
Authors: Jäger Gerold , Markström Klas , Öhman Lars‐Daniel , Shcherbak Denys
Published: December 2018

We have performed a complete enumeration of nonisotopic triples of mutually orthogonalLatin rectangles for. Here we will present a census of such triples, classified by various properties, including the order of the autotopism group of the triple. As part of this, we have also achieved the first enumeration of pairwise orthogonal triples of Youden rectangles. We have also studied orthogonal triples ofrectangles which are formed by extending mutually orthogonal triples with nontrivial autotopisms one row at a time, and requiring that the autotopism group is nontrivial in each step. This class includes a triple coming from the projective plane of order 8. Here we find a remarkably symmetrical pair of triples ofrectangles, formed by juxtaposing two selected copies of complete sets of mutually orthogonal Latin squares of order 4.
Fifteen‐year statistical analysis of cloud characteristics over China using Terra and Aqua Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer observations
Authors: Zhao Chuanfeng , Chen Yuyang , Li Jiming , Letu Husi , Su Yunfei , Chen Tianmeng , Wu Xiaolin
Published: December 2018

Using 15‐year observations obtained from the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) on board both NASA Terra and Aqua from March 2003 to February 2018, this study investigated the spatio‐temporal variations of both macro‐ and micro‐physical cloud properties over China, including cloud fraction (CF), cloud top pressure (CTP), cloud top temperature (CTT), cloud optical thickness (COT), and effective radius (r
e) of both liquid water and ice clouds. Multi‐year averaged CF is around 61% over whole China region. However, CF varies with both regions and seasons. The CFs are about 6–8% larger in summer and winter (~64–65%) than in spring and autumn (~58%). By classifying China into five regimes, which are northwestern China (NW), northeastern China (NE), Tibetan Plateau (TP), northern China (N), and southern China (S), there is a clear CF regional distribution pattern. In general, there are large amount of clouds in S and southeast of TP, and small amount in NE, N, NW and most TP. Moreover, there are generally more clouds over ocean than over land, and much more clouds over S than over N. The CFs are larger (smaller) in the afternoon than in the morning over most land (ocean) regions. Furthermore, the largest CF differences between afternoon and morning occur over the TP region in China. COT demonstrates almost the same regional distribution pattern as the CF for all four seasons. Specifically, COT is higher in S than in N, which is most likely associated with the type of clouds and the availability of water vapour. Cloud r
e shows larger values in NW and TP than in eastern China regions in all seasons except for summer, which could be related to the heavy aerosol pollution in eastern China regions. Accompanying with the cold cloud tops over TP, a low CTP centre is often located there.
The role of entrepreneurship education in developing a passion for business
Authors: Arshad Muhammad , Farooq Omer , Afzal Sadia
Published: December 2018

What effect does education have on entrepreneurial passion? A study conducted among business school students in Pakistan's largest private university, the University of Lahore, investigates the relationship between entrepreneurial education, entrepreneurial passion, and entrepreneurial self‐efficacy. The findings show a strong positive relationship between entrepreneurial education and entrepreneurial passion. They also show that entrepreneurship education affects entrepreneurial self‐efficacy, which in turn stimulates an individual's entrepreneurial passion. Besides contributing to the theoretical literature on the relationship between entrepreneurial education and entrepreneurial passion, these results provide educators and public policy‐makers with guidance on how to develop entrepreneurial passion in the business leaders of the future.
Reducing scrap at a multinational toy manufacturer in Malaysia
Authors: Tan Yen Loo , Tan Cheng Ling
Published: December 2018

Faced with the rapid growth of digital games, the traditional toy industry is facing stiff competition. For many years, Southeast Asian countries have been attractive to manufacturers because of their low labor costs. To continue competing in this evolving market, they now need to become more efficient. This makes it essential to identify inefficiencies that contribute to defects and implement procedures to eliminate them. For one Malaysian manufacturer of toy cars that was losing more than MYR 1 million ($245,000) a year in scrap, a careful analysis of current processes highlighted several opportunities for improvement. Future strategies for reducing waste include the implementation of lean production techniques, such as 5S, kanban, and failure mode and effects analysis, along with upgrades in technology to reduce the likelihood of human error.
Compliance with preoperative care measures reduces surgical site infection after colorectal operation
Authors: Guzman‐Pruneda Francisco A. , Husain Syed G. , Jones Christian D. , Beal Eliza W. , Porter Erica , Grove Michele , Moffatt‐Bruce Susan , Schmidt Carl R.
Published: December 2018

Background

Surgical site infections (SSIs) are a major cause of morbidity complicating colorectal operations. Several evidence‐based preoperative strategies are associated with decreased SSI rates. We hypothesize that compliance with multiple strategies is associated with lower incidence of SSI after the elective colorectal operation.

Methods

Preoperative care measure compliance before colorectal operations were assessed. Measures included antiseptic wash the night before and day of operation, oral antibiotic, and mechanical bowel preparation, antibiotic prophylaxis, Chloraprep skin preparation, and hair clipping. Rates of SSI after colectomy and other pertinent outcomes were stratified by full and partial compliance with preoperative measures. Exclusion criteria included bowel perforation, ischemia, complete obstruction, intra‐abdominal abscess, and no intraoperative skin closure.

Results

Eight hundred twenty‐six subjects underwent colectomy between 2010 and 2016; 469 met inclusion criteria. Compliance with all measures occurred in 214 (46%) and was independently associated with lower postoperative infection rates (odds ratio [OR], 0.37; confidence interval [CI], 0.16‐0.85; P = 0.02). SSI occurred in 51 (11%): was superficial in 35 (7%); deep in 5 (1%); and organ space in 11 (2%). SSI rates were reduced from 16% (partial or no compliance group) to 5% (full compliance group). No stand‐alone intervention was independently associated with decreased SSI rate. Multivariate analysis found the following factors associated with a lower risk of SSI: full compliance with all five process measures, lower BMI, nonsmoker, and minimally invasive operation.

Discussion and Conclusion

Compliance with preoperative care strategies reduces rates of SSI after colectomy with a cumulative effect more pronounced than any single intervention reinforcing the need for protocol‐driven and evidence‐based care for patients undergoing colorectal operations.
Prospective study on image‐guided navigation surgery for pelvic malignancies
Authors: Nijkamp Jasper , Kuhlmann Koert F. D. , Ivashchenko Oleksandra , Pouw Bas , Hoetjes Nikie , Lindenberg Melanie A. , Aalbers Arend G. J. , Beets Geerard L. , van Coevorden Frits , KoK Niels , Ruers Theo J. M.
Published: December 2018

Background and objectives

Surgery of advanced tumors and lymph nodes in the pelvis can be challenging due to the narrow pelvic space and vital surrounding structures. This study explores the application of a novel electromagnetic navigation system to guide pelvic surgery.

Methods

This was a prospective study on surgery for malignancies in the pelvis. Preoperatively obtained imaging was used to create a patient‐specific three‐dimensional (3D) roadmap. In the operating room, the 3D roadmap was registered to an intraoperative computed tomography scan. A tracked pointer was used during surgery for guidance. Primary endpoint was safety and feasibility, secondary endpoints were accuracy and usability.

Results

Twenty‐eight colorectal, four liposarcomas, and one gynecological patient were included. There were no safety issues. Navigation was feasible in 31 patients. The mean target registration errors of 4.0 and 6.3 mm were achieved for straight and French position, respectively. In seven of seven patients with a locally advanced rectal tumor and in seven of eight patients with recurrences, negative margins were achieved. Thirty‐three of 36 target lymph nodes were successfully removed. Surgeons using the system indicated faster localization of the tumor and improved decisiveness.

Conclusion

This novel surgical navigation system was safe and feasible during pelvic surgery and can facilitate its users.
Overall survival of patients with colon cancer and a prolonged time to surgery
Authors: Lino‐Silva Leonardo S. , Guzmán‐López Janet C. , Zepeda‐Najar César , Salcedo‐Hernández Rosa A. , Meneses‐García Abelardo
Published: December 2018

Background

Factors associated with the time to surgery (TTS) and survival in colon cancer (CC) have not been well studied. Our aim was to find if the TTS has changed in our institution over time and to determine if it influences the survival.

Methods

Retrospective cross‐section study of 266 CC analyzed between two periods, and according to the quartiles of TTS, we performed a survival analysis.

Results

The median age was 57 years; there was no predominance of sex, and about half of the patients were in stage III. The median TTS was 38 days, and 75% of the cases were operated before 60 days. The median TTS for 2005 to 2010 was 36 days, while for 2011 to 2015 was 41 days (P = 0.107). The survival was not statistically different between cases (1) operated with a delayed TTS or not, (2) operated in four cut‐off points of TTS, (3) two different periods of attention, and (4) according to the clinical stage.

Conclusion

We did not find an association between the TTS with low survival. TTS has increased in the last period so we must work to make the diagnostic process more efficient in our patients to meet international quality standards.
Revision surgery following minimally invasive image‐guided cochlear implantation
Authors: Morrel William G. , Jayawardena Asitha D. L. , M. Amberg Susan , Dawant Benoit M. , Noble Jack H. , Labadie Robert F.
Published: December 2018

Minimally invasive image‐guided cochlear implantation (CI) research continues to progress. We previously performed the procedure in nine patients. Herein, we describe the first revision operation for device failure following minimally invasive image‐guided CI. It was possible to reuse the original drill channel, obviating the need to convert to a wide‐field mastoidectomy. Revision surgery, if required, can therefore be performed safely after minimally invasive image‐guided CI.

Level of Evidence

NA

Laryngoscope, 129:1458–1461, 2019
Is greater antibiotic therapy prior to ESS associated with differences in surgical outcomes in CRS?
Authors: Ramakrishnan Vijay R. , Mace Jess C. , Soler Zachary M. , Smith Timothy L.
Published: December 2018

Objective

Antibiotics have been a mainstay of chronic rhinosinusitis therapy; however, data suggest that antibiotics may also result in several adverse unintended consequences. We aimed to evaluate if greater antibiotic use prior to sinus surgery was associated with differences in surgical outcomes.

Methods

Adult CRS patients enrolled in a prospective, multi‐institutional, observational cohort study were asked to recall systemic antibiotic use in the 90 days prior to endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS). Antibiotic use was examined in relation to demographics, disease characteristics, and outcomes.

Results

Data were collected for 271 study participants followed for a mean of 14.9 [± 5.1] months across four institutions, with a mean preoperative antibiotic use of 27.8 [± 22.7] days out of the 90 preceding ESS. After ESS, significant improvement (P < 0.001) was reported for patient‐reported outcome measures and endoscopy scores for the overall cohort. No bivariate correlation between preoperative antibiotic use and degree of benefit in objective clinical measures (endoscopy, Brief Smell Identification Test) was seen. Increased preoperative antibiotic use was associated with less improvement in 22‐item SinoNasal Outcome Test (SNOT‐22) and its rhinologic subdomain after ESS. Prevalence of achieving a minimal clinically important difference in overall SNOT‐22 symptom scores was lower in those using more preoperative antibiotics, although statistical significance was not reached when adjusting for independent covariates in multivariate modeling.

Conclusion

Higher amounts of previous antibiotic use do not appear to be associated with better ESS outcomes. Specific recommendations for antibiotic use as part of CRS‐appropriate medical therapy prior to ESS require further study, particularly given concerns for antibiotic overuse and implications for improving outcomes in the modern healthcare era.

Level of Evidence

2C Laryngoscope, 129:558–566, 2019
Voice outcomes following medialization laryngoplasty with and without arytenoid adduction
Authors: Zimmermann Terence M. , Orbelo Diana M. , Pittelko Rebecca L. , Youssef Stephanie J. , Lohse Christine M. , Ekbom Dale C.
Published: December 2018

Objective

Voice outcomes following medialization laryngoplasty (ML) for unilateral vocal fold paralysis (UVFP) were compared to those who underwent ML plus arytenoid adduction (AA) (ML+AA).

Methods

Single institution retrospective review of patients with UVFP undergoing ML and ML+AA (2009–2017). Demographic information and history of laryngeal procedures were collected. Preoperative and postoperative Voice Handicap Index‐10 (VHI‐10) and Consensus Perceptual Auditory Evaluation of Voice (CAPE‐V) were assessed.

Results

Of 236 patients, 119 met study criteria. Of those, 70 (59%) underwent ML and 49 (41%) underwent ML+AA. Significant differences between groups at baseline were found for age at time of thyroplasty (P = 0.046), VHI‐10 scores (P < 0.001), and CAPE‐V scores (P = 0.007). Baseline VHI‐10 scores for ML+AA (28 ± 7) were greater than those for ML alone (24 ± 7). At 12 months, overall VHI‐10 scores improved compared to baseline for both groups (ML+AA = 9 ± 7, ML = 16 ± 9); however, there was greater improvement for the ML+AA group compared to ML group (P = 0.001). CAPE‐V scores at 3 or 12 months improved, but differences between the groups were not statistically significant once controlled for covariates.

Conclusion

Based on current findings, patients who undergo ML+AA likely have greater voice handicap at baseline compared to those undergoing ML alone. Patients selected for ML+AA improve as much or more than those who underwent ML alone. This highlights the importance of appropriate selection of candidates for AA.

Level of Evidence

4

Laryngoscope, 129:1876–1881, 2019
Type I thyroplasty: A safe outpatient procedure
Authors: Junlapan Attapon , Sung C. Kwang , Damrose Edward J.
Published: December 2018

Objectives/Hypothesis

Overnight hospitalization is routinely advocated following type I thyroplasty (TP) because of concerns for airway compromise. Hospitalization increases cost and patient inconvenience, and may not necessarily be appropriate. This study evaluated complications following surgery and identified predictors for same to assess which patients benefit most from hospitalization.

Study Design

Retrospective chart review.

Methods

A study was conducted on patients who underwent TP with or without arytenoid repositioning procedures between June 2008 and March 2017. The demographic data of the subjects, characteristics, etiology of glottic insufficiency, interventions performed, and subsequent complications were evaluated.

Results

Of 147 patients reviewed, 100 underwent TP alone, 41 underwent TP with arytenoid adduction, and six patients underwent TP with adduction arytenopexy. Iatrogenic vocal fold paralysis was the most common indication. Major complications, which included transient airway compromise and hematoma requiring reoperation, occurred in 7% of patients. Revision surgery and thyroplasty combined with arytenoid repositioning maneuvers were associated with increased risk of major complications.

Conclusions

In general, TP is a safe procedure, with a major complication rate that is lower than that of outpatient thyroidectomy. Overnight hospitalization should be considered in patients undergoing revision surgery and in those requiring concurrent arytenoid repositioning procedures.

Level of Evidence

4

Laryngoscope, 129:1640–1646, 2019
Ectopic expression of PLC‐β2 in non‐invasive breast tumor cells plays a protective role against malignant progression and is correlated with the deregulation of miR‐146a
Authors: Bertagnolo Valeria , Grassilli Silvia , Volinia Stefano , Al‐Qassab Yasamin , Brugnoli Federica , Vezzali Federica , Lambertini Elisabetta , Palomba Maria , Piubello Quirino , Orvieto Enrico , Natali Cristina , Piva Roberta , Croce Carlo Maria , Capitani Silvano
Published: December 2018

Cells in non‐invasive breast lesions are widely believed to possess molecular alterations that render them either susceptible or refractory to the acquisition of invasive capability. One such alteration could be the ectopic expression of the β2 isoform of phosphoinositide‐dependent phospholipase C (PLC‐β2), known to counteract the effects of hypoxia in low‐invasive breast tumor‐derived cells. Here, we studied the correlation between PLC‐β2 levels and the propensity of non‐invasive breast tumor cells to acquire malignant features. Using archival FFPE samples and DCIS‐derived cells, we demonstrate that PLC‐β2 is up‐regulated in DCIS and that its forced down‐modulation induces an epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal shift, expression of the cancer stem cell marker CD133, and the acquisition of invasive properties. The ectopic expression of PLC‐β2 in non‐transformed and DCIS‐derived cells is, to some extent, dependent on the de‐regulation of miR‐146a, a tumor suppressor miRNA in invasive breast cancer. Interestingly, an inverse relationship between the two molecules, indicative of a role of miR‐146a in targeting PLC‐β2, was not detected in primary DCIS from patients who developed a second invasive breast neoplasia. This suggests that alterations of the PLC‐β2/miR‐146a relationship in DCIS may constitute a molecular risk factor for the appearance of new breast lesions. Since neither traditional classification systems nor molecular characterizations are able to predict the malignant potential of DCIS, as is possible for invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC), we propose that the assessment of the PLC‐β2/miR‐146a levels at diagnosis could be beneficial for identifying whether DCIS patients may have either a low or high propensity for invasive recurrence.
Fibroblast growth factor‐21 protects against fibrosis in hypertensive heart disease
Authors: Ferrer‐Curriu Gemma , Redondo‐Angulo Ibon , Guitart‐Mampel Mariona , Ruperez Celia , Mas‐Stachurska Aleksandra , Sitges Marta , Garrabou Gloria , Villarroya Francesc , Fernández‐Solà Joaquim , Planavila Anna
Published: December 2018

FGF21 is an endocrine factor that contributes to multiple pathophysiological processes, mainly via its action as a metabolic regulator and cardioprotective agent. Recent studies have shown increased circulating FGF21 levels in hypertensive patients and in mouse models of hypertension. However, the relevance of FGF21 in hypertensive heart disease has not been addressed. Hypertension was induced by treating 4‐month old WT and Fgf21−/− mice with angiotensin II (AngII) for 1 week, resulting in a similar increase in blood pressure in both genotypes. Plasma FGF21 levels and expression in heart and liver were significantly increased in hypertensive WT mice relative to controls, an effect that was associated with increased expression levels of β‐klotho specifically in the heart. Fgf21−/− mice developed a greater degree of hypertensive heart disease than WT mice, notably characterized by extensive cardiac dysfunction and fibrosis. In vitro and in vivo studies further showed that FGF21 exerted a marked protective effect against cardiac fibrosis. Finally, left ventricle biopsies from human hypertensive heart donors, especially those developing cardiomyopathy, showed a significant increase in FGF21expression compared with normotensive controls, a finding that was associated with significantly enhanced cardiac hypertrophy and fibrosis. We conclude that during hypertension, both systemic and cardiac‐produced FGF21 are induced and act on the heart, protecting it from hypertensive heart disease. Thus, FGF21 acts as key factor in the fibrogenesis associated with hypertensive heart disease. Copyright © 2018 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of preparation methods on electrical and electromagnetic interference shielding properties of PMMA/MWCNT nanocomposites
Authors: Li Tingting , Zhao Guoqun , Wang Guilong
Published: December 2018

Nanocomposites of polymethyl methacrylate/multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were prepared via four different methods, namely, melt blending cum injection molding (MI), melt blending cum compression molding (MC), solution blending cum compression molding (SC), and solution blending cum melt compounding (SM). The effects of preparation methods on the microstructure, mechanical and electrical properties, and electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding performance were investigated. The solution‐based methods can disperse MWCNTs more uniformly without any significant agglomerates than the melt‐based methods. The injection molding method led to significant alignment of MWCNTs, while the compression molding method allowed MWCNTs randomly distributed. Because of the uniform dispersion of MWCNTs, the SM nanocomposite exhibited the lowest percolation threshold (0.25 vol%), and the highest modulus and electrical conductivity among all the samples. Under a MWCNT concentration of 1.72 vol%, the SM nanocomposite showed a shielding effectiveness up to 68 dB. The MI and MC nanocomposite showed poor mechanical and electrical properties due to severe agglomerates and breakages of MWCNTs. The EMI shielding mechanism of the nanocomposites prepared by different methods was discussed by coupling the distribution, dispersion and microstructure of MWCNTs, and shielding theory. The findings are important for guiding the design and fabrication of high‐efficient conductive polymer nanocomposites. POLYM. COMPOS., 40:E1786–E1800, 2019. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers
Low‐temperature compounding of flax fibers with polyamide 6 via solid‐state shear pulverization: Towards viable natural fiber composites with engineering thermoplastics
Authors: Wakabayashi Katsuyuki , Vancoillie Simon H.E. , Assfaw Mekdes G. , Choi David H. , Desplentere Frederik , Van Vuure Aart W.
Published: December 2018

Low‐temperature compounding of natural fiber/thermoplastic composites via solid‐state shear pulverization (SSSP) is explored for the first time, with a goal of processing temperature‐sensitive natural fibers with high temperature‐melting engineering thermoplastics without fiber degradation. The model study was based on polyamide 6 (PA6) as the matrix material and short flax fibers as the filler materials; flax fiber type was varied to provide a range of comparison. Composite structural characterization was conducted using computer tomography, optical microscopy, and scanning electron microscopy, while mechanical property measurements were performed on injection molded specimens in both tension and bending. SSSP demonstrated robust and effective processing results in model PA6/flax composites, especially when compared with conventional extrusion. SSSP was able to isolate unmodified scutched fibers into individual elementary fibers with minimal scission, and effectively distribute them in the polymer matrix in situ. The dispersed and distributed filler morphology led to mechanical property enhancements, including 230% and 40% increases in Young's modulus and tensile strength, respectively, compared with neat PA6, at a 20 vol% fiber content. POLYM. COMPOS., 40:3285–3295, 2019. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers
Amorphous copolyesters based on bibenzoic acids and neopentyl glycol
Authors: Eliot Edling Hans , Mondschein Ryan J. , Davis Mark K. , Long Timothy E. , Richard Turner Sam
Published: December 2018

High Tg amorphous copolyester thermoplastics were synthesized by incorporating 4,4′‐bibenzoate (4,4′BB) and 3,4′‐bibenzoate moieties into the polyester backbone via melt polycondensation. The high levels of crystallinity typically associated with 4,4′BB containing polyesters were suppressed through copolymerization of ethylene glycol, 1,4‐cyclohexane dimethanol, and neopentyl glycol (NPG) diols. NPG was shown to be highly effective in suppressing crystallization and was used to produce amorphous compositions with Tg’s as high as 129 °C. Diol ratios were determined by 1H NMR spectroscopy and molecular weights were assessed with inherent viscosity (ηinh). Thermogravimetric analysis showed single‐step weight losses in the range of 395–419 °C. Differential scanning calorimetry was used to determine melting points and glass transition temperatures over a wide range of copolyester compositions and identified amorphous compositions. Dynamic mechanical analysis confirmed Tg’s and was used to study β‐relaxations below the Tg. Rheological analysis revealed the effect of NPG structures on shear thinning and thermal stability. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2019, 57, 579–587
A crystal structure of the human protein kinase Mps1 reveals an ordered conformation of the activation loop
Authors: Roorda Jacomina C. , Joosten Robbie P. , Perrakis Anastassis , Hiruma Yoshitaka
Published: December 2018

Monopolar spindle 1 (Mps1) is a dual‐specificity protein kinase, orchestrating faithful chromosome segregation during mitosis. All reported structures of the Mps1 kinase adopt the hallmarks of an inactive conformation, which includes a mostly disordered activation loop. Here, we present a 2.4 Å resolution crystal structure of an “extended” version of the Mps1 kinase domain, which shows an ordered activation loop. However, the other structural characteristics of an active kinase are not present. Our structure shows that the Mps1 activation loop can fit to the ATP binding pocket and interferes with ATP, but less so with inhibitors binding, partly explain the potency of various Mps1 inhibitors.
Comparison of assimilating all‐sky and clear‐sky infrared radiances from Himawari‐8 in a mesoscale system
Authors: Okamoto Kozo , Sawada Yohei , Kunii Masaru
Published: December 2018

This study examines the advantages of infrared all‐sky radiance (ASR) assimilation over traditional clear‐sky radiance (CSR) assimilation using a mesoscale LETKF data assimilation system. To effectively assimilate ASR data from the Himawari‐8 geostationary satellite, a cloud‐dependent quality‐control procedure and an observation error model were developed. A single humidity band to be assimilated and thinning distance were determined based on observation error statistics. The operational pre‐processing and parameter settings, such as observation errors and an adaptive bias correction for CSR, were incorporated into the LETKF data assimilation system.

A comparison of the impacts of assimilating ASRs and CSRs was accomplished using single‐cycle and 10‐day cycle assimilation experiments. Study results revealed that ASR assimilation provided a higher degree of improvement in the first‐guess fit for conventional observations and satellite retrievals with respect to temperature, moisture and wind. Furthermore, ASR assimilation displayed a more stable improvement in the prediction of a severe rainfall event because it has more universal data coverage than CSR. Adaptive bias correction schemes with two different sets of predictors for ASRs were tested and revealed the difficulty in extracting additional information for the assimilation of no‐bias corrected ASR due to complicated bias factors. This was in contrast to the CSR assimilation, where bias correction had a positive impact.
A physical subgrid‐scale information exchange (PSIE) system for parametrization schemes in numerical weather prediction models
Authors: Kuell Volker , Bott Andreas
Published: December 2018

The choice and interaction of the parametrization schemes in a numerical weather prediction (NWP) model are crucial for the forecast quality. Because, classically, the parametrization schemes can only communicate to each other via the tendencies of the averaged grid‐scale prognostic variables, a considerable amount of subgrid‐scale information available within the schemes is lost.

To overcome this problem, subgrid‐scale information should be directly exchanged between the parametrization schemes. In the present paper already existing subgrid‐scale communication paths, which have been successfully used in operational forecasts in the past, are extended to a physical subgrid‐scale information exchange (PSIE) system including all atmospheric parametrization schemes. For our studies we have chosen the parametrization schemes of microphysics, convection, turbulence, fractional cloud cover and radiation. The COSMO model of Deutscher Wetterdienst (DWD) with a grid size of Δx = 7 km serves as the hosting model for the implementation of the PSIE system. However, the couplings are formulated in a way that also allows the PSIE system to be applied to other NWP models. Simulations of real case‐studies of different weather situations are performed and compared to DWD observational precipitation data from RADOLAN (radar measurements calibrated by station data).

Visual inspection of precipitation maps reveals that precipitation patterns look more realistic with the full PSIE system, especially during air‐mass convection situations. This is confirmed by fractional skill score (FSS) analyses, which also give an insight into the temporal development of the PSIE effects. The relative impact of the PSIE paths and their interaction is also studied in conjunction with a factor separation analysis.
A new approach for estimating ocean‐surface wind speed using an SMAP L‐band radiometer
Authors: Sharma Neerja
Published: December 2018

The measurement of ocean surface wind speed (WS) during cyclones plays a key role in improving cyclone track and intensity predictions; however, limited in situ WS observations during cyclone events are not sufficient for the continuous monitoring of intensity and track. Although satellite measurements provide an alternative means of obtaining such data, the performance of high‐frequency microwave (≥ 5GHz) sensors – which are used for ocean surface WS estimation – is adversely affected by rainy and high WS conditions. As a result, these frequencies cannot be used to measure WS under cyclonic conditions. However, since the L‐band (1.4GHz) microwave frequency is negligibly affected by atmospheric parameters such as water vapour, cloud and rain, it can be used to estimate ocean surface WSs even during cyclonic conditions. An L‐band microwave radiometer is currently in operation onboard the Soil Moisture Active Passive (SMAP) satellite, offering an opportunity to measure high WSs during cyclones. Although WS data from SMAP are available from Remote Sensing Systems (at http://www.remss.com/missions/smap/), a new retrieval technique using SMAP top‐of‐atmosphere horizontal and vertical polarised brightness temperature measurements (TOA_Tb) is presented here. Excess brightness due to the high WS of cyclones is clearly evident in the SMAP TOA_Tbs data. The technique described in this article produced estimates which successfully captured high wind speeds of up to ~50ms−1 during cyclones, and the WS values reported here are close to those from the Automated Tropical Cyclone Forecast.
REPRESENTATIONS OF DECAY IN THE WORKS OF CAT HOPE
Authors: James Stuart , Vickery Lindsay
Published: December 2018

This article considers the ‘representation of decay’ in selected concert works by the Australian composer Cat Hope. It draws on a mixed-method research methodology, comparing the conceptual aspects of Hope's oeuvre with analyses of studio and live recordings of Hope's work and discussing how such ideas of ‘decay’ may play out in the sonic world. Two forms of spectral analysis are employed: firstly the analysis of spectral parameters roughness, noisiness, brightness, pitch, and centroid, and secondly a visualisation of the music as a spectrogram. The data for the spectral analyses are derived from Alexander Harker's spectral descriptor tools for MaxMSP which record a value for each parameter every 25 milliseconds. At times, values are normalised within a range of 0 and 1, as representative of how listeners experience parametrical changes (i.e. dynamics, in relative terms rather than absolutes in relation to other sounds in the work). Importantly, perception of noisiness is more acute at frequencies in which the auditory critical bands are wider, below 250 Hz (roughly below middle C), precisely the upper range specified by Hope to define instruments suitable for the Australian Bass Orchestra.
TOUCHING SOUND: A SYMPOSIUM EXPLORING IDEAS AROUND SOUND AND TACTILITY
Authors: Molitor Claudia
Published: December 2018

Touching Sound, a symposium hosted by Sound Practice and Research at City, University of London and IKLECTIK Art Lab in 2017, aimed to explore the deeply embodied experience that is hearing and listening and add to this ever-growing field of practice and research. Composers and artists, a ceramicist, a landscape architect, and a surgeon considered the tactile experience from an open perspective, including the political, social and aesthetic. Interest in exploring touch and the tactile in relation to music and sound has grown in both practice and research. Until recently the discourse was predominantly centred on the integration of haptics with sound technology and ways in which music ‘touches’ us emotionally. Changing approaches to multi-modal experiences, often underpinned by phenomenology, and developing technological possibilities have, however, given rise to more embodied and tactile approaches to thinking about and creating music.
THE BODY AS MUSICAL STRUCTURE
Authors: Hendrickse Jan
Published: December 2018

This article considers the ways that we might rethink our relationship to musical tools and discusses some possible implications for re-thinking these human/non-human intra-actions. I refer to my own experience as a flute player to examine the body's relationship to air and whether this can be considered to be a form of touch. In doing so I have referenced trans-cultural perspectives in order to show that specific musical practices can structure human experience in very different ways.
BBC Proms Premieres 2018: Anna Meredith, Georg Friedrich Haas, Ēriks Ešenvalds, Andrew Norman, Morfydd Owen, Daphne Oram, Eve Risser, Caroline Shaw and Tansy Davies
Authors: Potter Keith
Published: December 2018

The First Night of this year's BBC Proms (BBC SO/Sakari Oramo plus youth ensembles, 13 July) offered, as it happened, an immediate comparison with one of the first Proms I can recall reviewing, back in 1973. Both concerts included Holst's The Planets, and that 1973 concert had preceded this with a beautiful composition by Elisabeth Lutyens. Forty-five years ago, she was one of four women composers whose works were featured at the Proms; without, as far as I recall, much comment on gender-related issues.
Music We'd Like To Hear, 2018 Season
Authors: Harper Ben
Published: December 2018

This was the fourteenth year of Music We'd Like To Hear, the summer series of concerts organised by composers John Lely and Tim Parkinson. The atmosphere at these Friday evening concerts is informal and convivial – the audience is routinely invited to join the musicians down at the pub on the corner afterwards – but the underlying purpose is entirely serious about music. As always, each programme focuses on new music and significant works that have been rarely, or never, played in this country. The concerts wouldn't look out of place at Huddersfield, but the rationale here is less academic than personal.
Adviser to The King: Experts, Rationalization, and Legitimacy
Authors: Jones Calvert W.
Published: December 2018

Do experts rationalize and legitimize authoritarian governance? Although research on expert actors in contexts of democracy and international governance is now extensive, scholarly work on their role in authoritarian settings remains limited. This article helps open the black box of authoritarian decision-making by investigating expert advisers in the Arab Gulf monarchies, where ruling elites have enlisted them from top universities and global consulting firms. Qualitative fieldwork combined with three experiments casts doubt on both the rationalization and legitimacy hypotheses and also generates new insights surrounding unintended consequences. On rationalization, the evidence suggests that experts contribute to perverse cycles of overconfidence among authoritarian ruling elites, thereby enabling a belief in state-building shortcuts. On legitimacy, the experiments demonstrate a backfire effect, with experts reducing public support for reform. The author makes theoretical contributions by suggesting important and heretofore unrecognized conflicts and trade-offs across experts’ potential for rationalizing vis-à-vis legitimizing.
Realizing high thermoelectric performance in Cu2Te alloyed Cu1.15In2.29Te4
Authors: Li Min , Luo Yong , Cai Gemei , Li Xie , Li Xiaoyan , Han Zhongkang , Lin Xinyi , Sarker Debalaya , Cui Jiaolin
Published: December 2018

Upon alloying with Cu2Te, the extra Te, which resides at the interstitial site of Cu1.15In2.29Te4 and creates resonant, impurity states and additional rattling modes, yields extensive lattice disorder, thus improving the thermoelectric performance significantly.
Silver ion-stabilized DNA triplexes for completely enzyme-free and sensitive fluorescence detection of transcription factors via catalytic hairpin assembly amplification
Authors: Qin Yao , Li Daxiu , Yuan Ruo , Xiang Yun
Published: December 2018

A new silver ion-stabilized DNA triplex enables enzyme-free and amplified sensitive fluorescence detection of transcription factors.
Cerebrospinal Fluid Rhinorrhea due to Transethmoidal Encephalocele Following Occipital Meningioma Resection in an Adult: A Case Report
Authors: Bartoš Robert , Vachata Petr , Sameš Martin , Radovnický Tomáš
Published: December 2018

Transethmoidal encephalocele is a rare condition in adult patients. It is usually diagnosed during childhood by cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) rhinorrhea, meningitis, a nasal mass, or seizures. We present a case of an adult woman with CSF rhinorrhea following resection of an occipital meningioma. The cribriform plate defect containing the encephalocele was diagnosed by computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging. Transcranial surgery using a patch was performed successfully. We also discuss the possible pathophysiologic mechanisms of encephalocele and treatment options.
Punción percutánea transtorácica con aguja gruesa: complicaciones y factores de riesgo inherentes al paciente
Authors: Cobeñas Ricardo , Pinzon Jairo Hernandez , Re Ricardo , Mena Karen , Paba Mariangela , Larrañaga Nebil , Kozima Shigeru
Published: December 2018

Objetivo Determinar la incidencia de complicaciones con el uso de una aguja gruesa (semiautomática Trucut 18), para punción pulmonar y realizar un análisis exploratorio de las variables inherentes al paciente que probablemente puedan tener relación con el desarrollo de complicaciones.

Materiales y Métodos Estudio retrospectivo de una serie de casos de pacientes sometidos a punción percutánea transtorácica (PPT) con aguja gruesa y guiada por tomografía computada (TC) para el estudio de lesiones pulmonares; se realizó un análisis univariado.

Resultados Se realizaron 26 punciones, la tasa de incidencia de complicaciones fue del 38,46% en 1 año; los pacientes presentaron: neumotórax leve (n = 7), neumotórax moderado (n = 3) y hemorragia alveolar difusa (n = 1). El análisis estadístico univariado mostró una diferencia estadísticamente significativa en la edad de los pacientes que presentaron complicaciones v/s los pacientes que no presentaron complicaciones (61,18 +/− 3,6 versus 75,1 +/− 2,46 años, p = 0,0107).

Conclusión La PPT-TC es un procedimiento con una tasa considerable de complicaciones no severas; en nuestra serie de casos, la edad fue la variable que se asoció con mayor fuerza al probable desarrollo de complicaciones.
Microvascular Decompression for Geniculate Neuralgia through a Retrosigmoid Approach
Authors: Nguyen Vincent N. , Basma Jaafar , Sorenson Jeffrey , Michael L. Madison
Published: December 2018

Objectives To describe a retrosigmoid approach for the microvascular sectioning of the nervus intermedius and decompression of the 5th and 9th cranial nerves, with emphasis on microsurgical anatomy and technique.

Design A retrosigmoid craniectomy is performed in the lateral decubitus position. The dura is opened and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is released from the cisterna magna and cerebellopontine cistern. Dynamic retraction without rigid retractors is performed. Subarachnoid dissection of the cerebellopontine angle exposes the 7th to 8th nerve complex. A neuromonitoring probe is used with careful inspection of the microsurgical anatomy to identify the facial nerve and the nervus intermedius as they enter the internal auditory meatus. The nervus intermedius is severed. A large vein coursing superiorly across cranial 9th nerve was coagulated and cut. A Teflon pledget is inserted between a small vessel and the 5th nerve. Photographs of the region are borrowed from Dr. Rhoton's laboratory to illustrate the microsurgical anatomy.

Participants The senior author performed the surgery. The video was edited by Drs. V.N. and J.B.

Outcome Measures Outcome was assessed by postoperative neurological function.

Results The nervus intermedius was successfully cut and the 5th and 9th nerves were decompressed. The patient's pain resolved after surgery and at later follow-up.

Conclusions Understanding the microsurgical anatomy of the cerebellopontine angle is necessary to identify the cranial nerves involved in facial pain syndromes. Subarachnoid dissection and meticulous microsurgical techniques are key elements for a successful microvascular decompression.

The link to the video can be found at: https://youtu.be/pV5Wip7WusE.
On a strengthening of certain theorems of Gelfond on the integer-valuedness of analytic functions
Authors: Yanchenko A. Y.
Published: December 2018

We consider entire functions of finite order (greater than or equal to 1) which take rational integer values at the points of a rather general discrete set. We show that under certain conditions all such functions can only be exponential polynomials of a special form.
Differentiability of the Minkowski function

. II
Authors: Kan I. D.
Published: December 2018

We prove new theorems on the derivative of the Minkowski function.
On the variety of the inflection points of plane cubic curves
Authors: Kulikov Vic. S.
Published: December 2018

In this paper we study properties of the nine-dimensional variety of the inflection points of plane cubics. We describe the local monodromy groups of the set of inflection points near singular cubic curves and give a detailed description of the normalizations of the surfaces of the inflection points of plane cubic curves belonging to general two-dimensional linear systems of cubics. We also prove the vanishing of the irregularity of a smooth manifold birationally isomorphic to the variety of the inflection points of plane cubics.
Automorphisms of cubic surfaces in positive characteristic
Authors: Dolgachev I. , Duncan A.
Published: December 2018

We classify all possible automorphism groups of smooth cubic surfaces over an algebraically closed field of arbitrary characteristic. As an intermediate step we also classify automorphism groups of quartic del Pezzo surfaces. We show that the moduli space of smooth cubic surfaces is rational in every characteristic, determine the dimensions of the strata admitting each possible isomorphism class of automorphism group, and find explicit normal forms in each case. Finally, we completely characterize when a smooth cubic surface in positive characteristic, together with a group action, can be lifted to characteristic zero.
Equivariant exceptional collections on smooth toric stacks
Authors: Borisov L. A. , Orlov D. O.
Published: December 2018

We study the bounded derived categories of torus-equivariant coherent sheaves on smooth toric varieties and Deligne–Mumford stacks. We construct and describe full exceptional collections in these categories. We also observe that these categories depend only on the

-homeomorphism type of the corresponding simplicial complex.
The Interaction of a Diabetes Gene Risk Score With 3 Different Antihypertensive Medications for Incident Glucose-level Elevation
Authors: Barzilay Joshua I , Lai Dejian , Davis Barry R , Pressel Sara , Previn Hannah E , Arnett Donna K
Published: December 2018

BACKGROUND

Elevations of fasting glucose (FG) levels are frequently encountered in people treated with thiazide diuretics. The risk is lower in people treated with ACE inhibitors (ACEi). To determine if genetic factors play a role in FG elevation, we examined the interaction of a diabetes gene risk score (GRS) with the use of 3 different antihypertensive medications.

METHODS

We examined 376 nondiabetic hypertensive individuals with baseline FG <100 mg/dl who were genotyped for 24 genes associated with risk of elevated glucose levels. All participants had ≥1 follow-up FG level over 6 years of follow-up. Participants were randomized to treatment with a thiazide-like diuretic (chlorthalidone), a calcium channel blocker (CCB; amlodipine), or an ACEi (lisinopril). Outcomes were an FG increase of ≥13 or ≥27 mg/dl, the upper 75% and 90% FG increase in the parent cohort from which the present cohort was obtained. Odds ratios were adjusted for factors that increase FG levels.

RESULTS

For every 1 allele increase in GRS, the adjusted odds ratios (ORs) were 1.06 (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.99, 1.14; P = 0.06) and 1.09 (95% CI: 0.99, 1.20; P = 0.08). When results were examined by randomized medications, participants randomized to amlodipine had statistically significant odds for either outcome (OR: 1.23; 95% CI: 1.03, 1.48; P = 0.01 and OR: 1.31; 95% CI: 1.06, 1.62; P = 0.01). No such risk increase was found in participants randomized to the other 2 medications.

CONCLUSIONS

A diabetes GRS predicts FG elevation in people treated with a CCB, but not with an ACEi or diuretic. These findings require confirmation.

CLINICAL TRIALS REGISTRATION

Trial number NCT00000542.