bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Retinoblastoma Control With Primary Intra-arterial Chemotherapy: Outcomes Before and During the Intravitreal Chemotherapy Era
Authors: Shields Carol L. , Alset Adel E. , Say Emil Anthony T. , Caywood Emi , Jabbour Pascal , Shields Jerry A.
Published: August 2016

Purpose:

To compare outcomes of intra-arterial chemotherapy for retinoblastoma as primary therapy before (Era I) and during (Era II) the intravitreal chemotherapy era.

Methods:

In this retrospective interventional case series at a tertiary referral center, 66 eyes of 66 patients with untreated unilateral retinoblastoma were used. intraarterial chemotherapy into the ophthalmic artery under fluoroscopic guidance was performed using melphalan in every case, with additional topotecan as necessary. Intravitreal chemotherapy using melphalan and/or topotecan was employed as needed for active vitreous seeding. Globe salvage was measured based on the International Classification of Retinoblastoma (ICRB) during two eras.

Results:

The two eras encompassed 2008 to 2012 (intraarterial chemotherapy alone, Era I) and 2012 to 2015 (intraarterial chemotherapy plus intravitreal chemotherapy, Era II). Over this period, there were 66 patients with unilateral untreated retinoblastoma treated with primary intra-arterial chemotherapy. A comparison of features (Era I vs Era II) revealed no significant difference in mean patient age (24 vs 24 months), ICRB groups, mean largest tumor diameter (19 vs 17 mm), mean largest tumor thickness (10 vs 10 mm), vitreous seed presence (56% vs 59%), subretinal seed presence (67% vs 62%), retinal detachment (70% vs 66%), or vitreous hemorrhage (0% vs 5%). There was no significant difference in mean number of intra-arterial chemotherapy cycles (3 vs 3.1) or intraarterial chemotherapy dosages. Following therapy, there was a significant difference (Era I vs Era II) in the need for enucleation overall (44% vs 15%,
P
= .012), especially for group E eyes (75% vs 27%,
P
= .039). Four of the eyes that initiated therapy in Era I later required intravitreal chemotherapy during Era II. The enucleation rate was 0% for groups B and C in both eras and non-significant for group D (23% vs 13%). There were no patients with stroke, seizure, limb ischemia, extraocular tumor extension, secondary leukemia, metastasis, or death.

Conclusions:

The current era of retinoblastoma management using intra-arterial chemotherapy plus additional intravitreal chemotherapy (as needed for vitreous seeding) has improved globe salvage in eyes with advanced retinoblastoma.

[
J Pediatr Ophthalmol Strabismus
. 2016;53(5):275–284.]
Internal Medicine Residents' Retention of Knowledge and Skills in Bedside Ultrasound
Authors: Town James A. , Bergl Paul A. , Narang Akhil , McConville John F.
Published: August 2016

Background 

The long-term retention of knowledge and skills in bedside ultrasound by internal medicine residents after ultrasound training is not well understood.

Objective 

We sought to determine whether knowledge and skills acquired from focused training in bedside ultrasound are retained over time, and whether retention is related to independent practice.

Methods 

We conducted a prospective observational trial of 101 internal medicine residents at an academic medical center who participated in a bedside ultrasound workshop followed by 12 months of independent practice. Performance was measured on image-based knowledge and skills assessment using direct observation, both before the workshop and 12 months later. Individual usage data were obtained along with a survey on attitudes toward bedside ultrasound.

Results 

Participants' mean knowledge assessment score increased from a baseline of 63.7% to 84.5% immediately after training (P < .001). At 12 months, mean knowledge score fell to 73.0%, significantly different from both prior assessments (P < .001). Despite knowledge decline, the mean skills assessment score improved from a baseline of 30.5% to 50.4% at 12 months (P < .001). Residents reporting more ultrasound use (> 25 examinations) had higher scores in baseline knowledge and skills assessments than those with lower usage (< 25 examinations). Change in knowledge and image acquisition skills between assessments was equal in both subgroups.

Conclusions 

Residents' knowledge of ultrasound improved after brief training but decayed over time, whereas skills showed marginal improvement over the study, with minimal support. Growth and retention of ultrasound abilities were not impacted by usage rates.
What Really Matters Concerning Local Government Evaluation: Community Sustainability
Authors: Caldas Paulo , Dollery Brian , Marques Rui Cunha
Published: August 2016

How to evaluate local government or what really matters concerning local government evaluation and who cares about it are questions which are on the table currently across the world. This paper carry out a survey on the wide range of indicators and evaluation models of local government used worldwide and shows that they are based mainly on performance evaluation and financial sustainability ratios. We conclude that they address only part of the problem of strategic management, financing, and sustainable development issues of local government. In particular, the governance dimension is absent. Therefore, a broader vision is proposed that integrates our usual local government evaluation into the important issues of governance and sustainability. This article focus on “measuring what matters” in local government and presents the need of a new evaluation model, a Councils’ Sustainability Index, based on the integration of council’s financial performance with communities’ sustainability and governance dimensions. Thus, it might be an important contribution for the creation of a new paradigm on local government evaluation and councils’ strategic management. The Portuguese case is used to illustrate this purpose.
The Issue of Local Autonomy in the Slovenian Local Government System
Authors: Kukovič Simona , Haček Miro , Bukovnik Alan
Published: August 2016

The paper analyses the autonomy of Slovenian municipalities toward the central government. Slovenia is one of the very few countries in the European Union with a one-tier local government system, and while levels of local democracy have been on the rise for the last two decades, relations between the state on the one side and local units (municipalities) on the other has slowly deteriorated, especially over questions of municipal competencies, central oversight and the local financing of local communities. While Slovenia ratified the European Charter on Local Government in 1996, the charter was never fully implemented, as the subsidiarity principle was never fully implemented by the state. The paper will analyse the issue of local autonomy with special emphasis on the three mentioned topics, using primary and secondary sources as well as empirical data from several opinion polls conducted among stakeholders from national and local authorities.
Empirical Evidence on Violations of Patient Rights in the Republic of Slovenia
Authors: Kenda Anka Mohorič , Leskovar Robert , Pirnat Rajko , Uršič Duško , Pukšič Milan
Published: August 2016

The objective of the study was to: a) Analyse the causes of patient complaints on a large sample of the population of the Republic of Slovenia, and b) Develop a discrete simulation model used for the handling of patient complaints. Data obtained from the survey (N=1195), was used in the determination of parameters while legislation in the field of patient rights was employed to determine the structure of the simulation model. The model was used to simulate activities for different categories and paths of complaints. The most commonly identified causes of patient complaints were identified as follows: violation of legislative stipulations (93.6%), deterioration of health (93.1%), suspected improper treatment (91.7%), staff unavailability (91.1%), disregard of violations (90.9%) and loss of documentation (89.4%). Through improved transparency and safe electronic access, the simulation of patient complaints process enables feedback for policy makers to foster the quality of healthcare services.
Educational Reforms and Decentralization in Brazil, South Africa, South Korea and Spain
Authors: Do Vale Helder Ferreira
Published: August 2016

The article assesses the education reforms in four countries: Brazil, South Africa, South Korea, and Spain. The main objective of the comparison is to identify the elements of the reforms that led to different educational performances. By taking South Korea as a model of successful education reform, the comparative analysis shows that the educational reforms in Brazil, South Africa, and Spain have set these countries aside from the path toward high-performing educational systems. In these countries, differently from South Korea, decentralizing education reforms have been dominated by conflict over the distribution of fiscal and administrative resources.
Cost-of-ruling in Local Elections – The Case of Sweden
Authors: Karlsson David , Gilljam Mikael
Published: August 2016

There is a cost-of-ruling effect for parties who are part of ruling coalitions I local multi-party elections. Results from the case of Sweden (based on 8,892 election results of parties in local elections 1998-2010) indicate that a party on average loses almost a quarter of its share of the votes after an election period in government. The results also indicate that this cost-of-ruling effect varies depending on the party’s prominence and its political company within the ruling coalition. The voters punish anti-establishment parties who enter into ruling coalitions especially hard.
Emission, transport and radiative effects of mineral dust from Taklimakan and Gobi Deserts: comparison of measurements and model results
Authors: Chen Siyu , Huang Jianping , Kang Litai , Wang Hao , Ma Xiaojun , He Yongli , Yuan Tiangang , Yang Ben , Huang Zhongwei
Published: August 2016

Abstract. The weather research and forecasting model with chemistry (WRF-Chem) was used to investigate a typical dust storm event that occurred from 18th to 23rd March 2010 and swept across almost all of China, Japan, and Korea. WRF-Chem captured the spatial and temporal variations in dust aerosols and the meteorological conditions over East Asia well, and the results were used to further investigate details of processes related to dust emission, long-range transport, and radiative effects of dust aerosols over the Taklimakan desert (TD) and Gobi desert (GD). Results showed that the differences of weather conditions and topography and surface types in dust source regions may lead to the differences of dust emission, uplift height and transport. The typical dust event over East Asia was classified into two main stages. In the first stage (18th–20th March), the GD was located in the warm zone in advance of a cold front. The enhanced convection increased momentum transfer in the middle and lower troposphere because of the instability in the atmosphere. Moreover, the GD is located in relatively flat, high altitude regions influenced by the confluence of the northern and southern westerly jets. Therefore, the GD dust transport was the primary contributor to the dust concentration over East Asia. The strength of the dust emission decreased greatly during the second stage (21st–23rd March). The TD dust emission contributed to the dust concentration over East Asia. Cold air was lifted over the Pamir Plateau and intruded into the Tarim basin causing a strong uplifting motion. The average TD dust emission flux was 27.2 ± 4.1 μg m−2 s−1. However, the transport contribution of the TD dust (1.1 ton day−1) to the dust sink was smaller than that of the GD dust (1.4 ton day−1) because of the complex terrain and the prevailing wind in the TD. It is noted that the TD is not the main source region in China but a small amount of the TD dust was lofted to more than 5 km and transported over greater distances under the influence of the westerly jets. Moreover, the radiative forcing induced by dust particles is estimated as −3 W m−2 and −7 W m−2 at the top of the atmosphere, −8 W m−2 and −10 W m−2 at the surface, and +5 W m−2 and +3 W m−2 in the atmosphere over the TD and GD, respectively. The study provided confidence for further understanding the climate effect of the TD and GD dust.
Intercomparison study and optical asphericity measurements of small ice particles in the CERN CLOUD experiment
Authors: Nichman Leonid , Järvinen Emma , Dorsey James , Connolly Paul , Dupplisy Jonathan , Fuchs Claudia , Ignatius Karoliina , Sengupta Kamalika , Stratmann Frank , Möhler Ottmar , Schnaiter Martin , Gallagher Martin
Published: August 2016

Abstract. Optical probes are frequently used for the detection of microphysical cloud particle properties such as liquid and ice phase, size and morphology. These properties can eventually influence the angular light scattering properties of cirrus clouds as well as the growth and accretion mechanisms of single cloud particles. In this study we compare four commonly used optical probes to examine their response to small cloud particles of different phase and asphericity. Cloud simulation experiments were conducted at the Cosmics-Leaving-OUtdoor-Droplets (CLOUD) chamber at European Organisation for Nuclear Research (CERN). The chamber was operated in a series of multi-step adiabatic expansions to produce growth and sublimation of ice particles at super- and sub-saturated ice conditions and for initial temperatures of −30, −40 and −50 °C. The experiments were performed for ice cloud formation via homogeneous ice nucleation. We report the microphysical properties of small quasi-spherical ice particles in deep convection simulations and small hexagonal ice particles typical for in situ cirrus. Ice crystal asphericity and a degree of submicron complexity deduced from measurements of spatially resolved single particle light scattering patterns by the Particle Phase Discriminator mark 2 (PPD-2K, Karlsruhe edition) were compared with Cloud and Aerosol Spectrometer with Polarisation (CASPOL) measurements and images captured by the 3View Cloud Particle Imager (3V-CPI). Averaged path light scattering properties of the simulated ice clouds were measured using the Scattering-Intensity-Measurements-for-the-Optical-detectioN-of-icE (SIMONE) and single particle scattering properties were measured by the CASPOL. We show the ambiguity of several optical measurements in ice fraction determination of homogeneously frozen ice, in the case where sublimating quasi-spherical ice particles are present. Moreover, most of the instruments have shown a rather low sensitivity to the crystal complexity for small ice cloud particles that were grown under typical atmospheric conditions. Bulk averaged path depolarisation measurements of these clouds showed higher correlation to single particle measurements at high concentration and small diameters of cloud particles. These results have implications for the interpretation of atmospheric measurements and parametrisations for modelling, particularly for low particle number concentration clouds. This ensemble of optical instruments, using both averaged path and single particle detection presented here, in conjugation with the CLOUD chamber, reveals the possible discrepancies in comparisons of airborne and remote sensing measurements.
What if the 25 October 2011 event that struck Cinque Terre (Liguria)
had happened in Genoa, Italy? Flooding scenarios, hazard mapping and
damage estimation
Authors: Silvestro Francesco , Rebora Nicola , Rossi Lauro , Dolia Daniele , Gabellani Simone , Pignone Flavio , Trasforini Eva , Rudari Roberto , De Angeli Silvia , Masciulli Cristiano
Published: August 2016

Abstract. During the autumn of 2011 two catastrophic, very intense rainfall events affected two different parts of the Liguria Region of Italy causing various flash floods. The first occurred in October and the second at the beginning of November. Both the events were characterized by very high rainfall intensities (> 100 mm h−1) that persisted on a small portion of territory causing local huge rainfall accumulations (> 400 mm 6 h−1). Two main considerations were made in order to set up this work. The first consideration is that various studies demonstrated that the two events had a similar genesis and similar triggering elements. The second very evident and coarse concern is that two main elements are needed to have a flash flood: a very intense and localized rainfall event and a catchment (or a group of catchments) to be affected. Starting from these assumptions we did the exercise of mixing the two flash flood ingredients by putting the rainfall field of the first event on the main catchment struck by the second event, which has its mouth in the biggest city of the Liguria Region: Genoa. A complete framework was set up to quantitatively carry out a “what if” experiment with the aim of evaluating the possible damages associated with this event. A probabilistic rainfall downscaling model was used to generate possible rainfall scenarios maintaining the main characteristics of the observed rainfall fields while a hydrological model transformed these rainfall scenarios in streamflow scenarios. A subset of streamflow scenarios is then used as input to a 2-D hydraulic model to estimate the hazard maps, and finally a proper methodology is applied for damage estimation. This leads to the estimation of the potential economic losses and of the risk level for the people that stay in the affected area. The results are interesting, surprising and in a way worrying: a rare but not impossible event (it occurred about 50 km away from Genoa) would have caused huge damages estimated between 120 and EUR 230 million for the affected part of the city of Genoa, Italy, and more than 17 000 potentially affected people.
The Impact of Corporate Governance on Stock Price and Trade Volume
Authors: Mohamed Wafaa Salah , Elewa May M.
Published: August 2016

The purpose of this paper is to investigate whether corporate governance is associated with stock prices and trade volume for 62 publicly traded firms on the Egyptian Stock Exchange during 2007-2014. The authors hypothesize that firms with strong corporate governance have a significant impact on stock prices and trade volume. To examine the associations, a multiple regression analysis is used. Consistent with the first hypothesis, this study finds firms with strong corporate governance have a significant impact on stock prices while has no significant impact on trade volume. Findings indicate that quality of corporate governance can affect firms' stock price while trading volume is not affected by the strength of corporate governance. The results suggest that Egyptian firms should improve their corporate governance as it has a significant effect on firms’ value. Also, providing diverse sources of financial information other than the financial statements and to ensure the presence of high-quality financial reporting and strong investor protection. This study is carried on non-financial firms only. This research is important to regulators and standard setters as it shows the information that affects investors’ decisions and the importance of its disclosure. It pays attention of standard setters for setting a corporate governance framework for improving the level of disclosures of publicly traded firms in Egypt.
Modern Spirometry Supports Anesthetic Management in Small Animal Clinical Practice: A Case Series
Authors: Calice Ivana , Moens Yves
Published: August 2016

Modern spirometry, like no other monitoring technique, allows insight into breath-to-breath respiratory mechanics. Spirometers continuously measure volume, airway pressure, and flow while calculating and continuously displaying respiratory system compliance and resistance in the form of loops. The aim of this case series is to show how observation of spirometric loops, similar to electrocardiogram or CO2 curve monitoring, can improve safety of anesthetic management in small animals. Spirometric monitoring cases described in this case series are based on use of the anaesthesia monitor Capnomac Ultima with a side stream spirometry sensor. The cases illustrate how recognition and understanding of spirometric loops allows for easy diagnosis of iatrogenic pneumothorax, incorrect ventilator settings, leaks in the system, kinked or partially obstructed endotracheal tube, and spontaneous breathing interfering with intermittent positive-pressure ventilation. The case series demonstrates the potential of spirometry to improve the quality and safety of anesthetic management, and, hence, its use can be recommended during intermittent positive-pressure ventilation and procedures in which interference with ventilation can be expected.
Evaluation of Commonly Used Products for Disinfecting Clipper Blades in Veterinary Practices: A Pilot Study
Authors: Ley Benjamin , Silverman Edward , Peery Kara , Dominguez Delfina
Published: August 2016

Nosocomial infections are a concern of growing interest in veterinary medicine. Clipper blades have been confirmed as fomites for numerous potential pathogens and, as such, may be associated with wound and surgical site infections. The goal of this study was to evaluate the disinfectant capabilities of several commonly used clipper blade cleaning products. Seventy sterile clipper blades were inoculated with strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, and Staphylococcus aureus. Blades were then subjected to one of seven treatment groups for disinfecting. Quantitative cultures of remaining bacteria were performed. All blades in the control group showed large amounts of bacterial recovery. Culture results showed no recovery in blades soaked in alcohol or chlorhexidine or those sprayed with an ethanol/o-phenylphenol product, while moderate recovery was seen with all other treatments. These results show that persistent contamination of clipper blades can occur with the use of several commonly used disinfectant products. Further research is necessary to evaluate fungicidal capabilities as well as the effect of disinfection on clipper blade maintenance.
El movimiento estudiantil chileno: contexto y demandas
Authors: Espinoza Díaz Óscar , González Fiegehen Luis E.
Published: August 2016

El año 2011 se desarrolló un movimiento estudiantil que paralizó las actividades académicas mientras no se resolvieran algunos temas pendientes relativos a la educación chilena, a saber: el financiamiento, el lucro, la calidad de la oferta, la equidad en el acceso y el rol del estado. El artículo analiza estos cinco temas centrales, considerando especialmente el ámbito de la educación superior o terciaria, que es donde se concentraron las demandas; para presentar los alcances de las propuestas levantadas por el movimiento estudiantil, aportando para ello datos y cifras que describen con precisión la realidad universitaria chilena y la necesidad de revisar algunos aspectos de su funcionamiento.
Designing a 'modern' abacus for early childhood mathematics
Authors: Skoumpourdi Chrysanthi
Published: August 2016

In this paper, the design of a multi-material, the 'modern' abacus ('modabacus'), for developing early childhood mathematics, is proposed. Presenting the main theories for the design of educational materials as well as similar materials and their educational use, it appears that a new material is needed. The 'modabacus' would be an apparatus which could serve as a multi-material for acting out mathematical tasks as well as a material that could hopefully overcome the limits and restrictions of traditional abacuses and counting boards.
Aslib
Authors: Bawden David
Published: August 2016

The history of Aslib, an independent library/information membership organization in the United Kingdom between 1924 and 2014, is outlined, with emphasis on the ways in which Aslib acted as a de facto national centre for special librarianship and information work, for documentation, and for technical and commercial information. Its activities in this respect included publishing, training and professional development, research and consultancy, and the maintenance of national collections and indexes. Aslib was also an official national centre for several purposes, generally associated with information retrieval and dissemination.
Real-time imaging of Huntingtin aggregates diverting target search and gene transcription
Authors: Li Li , Liu Hui , Dong Peng , Li Dong , Legant Wesley R , Grimm Jonathan B , Lavis Luke D , Betzig Eric , Tjian Robert , Liu Zhe
Published: August 2016

The presumptive altered dynamics of transient molecular interactions in vivo contributing to neurodegenerative diseases have remained elusive. Here, using single-molecule localization microscopy, we show that disease-inducing Huntingtin (mHtt) protein fragments display three distinct dynamic states in living cells – 1) fast diffusion, 2) dynamic clustering and 3) stable aggregation. Large, stable aggregates of mHtt exclude chromatin and form 'sticky' decoy traps that impede target search processes of key regulators involved in neurological disorders. Functional domain mapping based on super-resolution imaging reveals an unexpected role of aromatic amino acids in promoting protein-mHtt aggregate interactions. Genome-wide expression analysis and numerical simulation experiments suggest mHtt aggregates reduce transcription factor target site sampling frequency and impair critical gene expression programs in striatal neurons. Together, our results provide insights into how mHtt dynamically forms aggregates and disrupts the finely-balanced gene control mechanisms in neuronal cells.
The dimerization equilibrium of a ClC Cl−/H+ antiporter in lipid bilayers
Authors: Chadda Rahul , Krishnamani Venkatramanan , Mersch Kacey , Wong Jason , Brimberry Marley , Chadda Ankita , Kolmakova-Partensky Ludmila , Friedman Larry J , Gelles Jeff , Robertson Janice L
Published: August 2016

Interactions between membrane protein interfaces in lipid bilayers play an important role in membrane protein folding but quantification of the strength of these interactions has been challenging. Studying dimerization of ClC-type transporters offers a new approach to the problem, as individual subunits adopt a stable and functionally verifiable fold that constrains the system to two states – monomer or dimer. Here, we use single-molecule photobleaching analysis to measure the probability of ClC-ec1 subunit capture into liposomes during extrusion of large, multilamellar membranes. The capture statistics describe a monomer to dimer transition that is dependent on the subunit/lipid mole fraction density and follows an equilibrium dimerization isotherm. This allows for the measurement of the free energy of ClC-ec1 dimerization in lipid bilayers, revealing that it is one of the strongest membrane protein complexes measured so far, and introduces it as new type of dimerization model to investigate the physical forces that drive membrane protein association in membranes.
Experimental constraints on the serpentinization rate of fore‐arc peridotites: Implications for the upwelling condition of the slab‐derived fluid
Authors: Nakatani T. , Nakamura M.
Published: August 2016

To constrain the water circulation in subduction zones, the hydration rates of peridotites were investigated experimentally in fore‐arc mantle conditions. Experiments were conducted at 400–580°C and 1.3 and 1.8 GPa, where antigorite is expected to form as a stable serpentine phase. Crushed powders of olivine ± orthopyroxene and orthopyroxene + clinopyroxene were reacted with 15 wt % distilled water for 4–19 days. The synthesized serpentine varieties were lizardite and aluminous lizardite (Al‐lizardite) in all experimental conditions except those of 1.8 GPa and 580°C in the olivine + orthopyroxene system, in which antigorite was formed. In the olivine + orthopyroxene system, the reactions were interface‐controlled except for the reaction at 400°C, which was transport‐controlled. The corresponding reaction rates were 7.0 × 10−12 to 1.5 × 10−11 m s−1 at 500–580°C and 7.5 × 10−16 m2 s−1 at 400°C for the interface and transport‐controlled reactions, respectively. Based on a simple reaction‐transport model including these hydration rates, we infer that penetration of the slab‐derived fluid all the way through a water‐unsaturated fore‐arc mantle is allowed only when focused flow occurs with a spacing larger than 77–229 km in hot subduction zones such as Nankai and Cascadia. However, the necessary spacing is only 2.3–4.6 m in intermediate‐temperature subduction zones such as Kyushu and Costa Rica. These calculations imply that fluid leakage in hot subduction zones may occur after the fore‐arc mantle is totally hydrated, whereas in intermediate‐temperature subduction zones, leakage through a water‐unsaturated fore‐arc mantle may be facilitated.
Marine silicate weathering in the anoxic sediment of the Ulleung Basin: Evidence and consequences
Authors: Kim Ji‐Hoon , Torres Marta E. , Haley Brian A. , Ryu Jong‐Sik , Park Myong‐Ho , Hong Wei‐Li , Choi Jiyoung
Published: August 2016

Marine silicate weathering (MSiW) in anoxic sediments has been recently shown to be a significant sink for CO2 generated by methanogenesis. Independently, the roles of clay dehydration (illitization) in producing water and driving upward fluid advection have been well established in deep marine sediments, but to date the K+ source required for the reaction has not been established. Here we present chemical and strontium isotope properties of pore fluids from seven cores in the Ulleung Basin, which show radiogenic 87Sr/86Sr values (up to ∼0.71045), very high alkalinity values (maximum ∼130 mM), and enrichment in H4SiO4, Na+, K+, and Mg2+, consistent with MSiW. This reaction consumes CO2, generates alkalinity, and acts as a K+ source for illitization; water released from MSiW‐supported illitization drives upward fluid flow. Our results highlight the importance of MSiW along continental margins and its underappreciated role in carbon cycling, silicate diagenesis, and hydrogeology of marine systems.
Internal‐tide interactions with the Gulf Stream and Middle Atlantic Bight shelfbreak front
Authors: Kelly Samuel M. , Lermusiaux Pierre F. J.
Published: August 2016

Internal tides in the Middle Atlantic Bight region are found to be noticeably influenced by the presence of the shelfbreak front and the Gulf Stream, using a combination of observations, equations, and data‐driven model simulations. To identify the dominant interactions of these waves with subtidal flows, vertical‐mode momentum and energy partial differential equations are derived for small‐amplitude waves in a horizontally and vertically sheared mean flow and in a horizontally and vertically variable density field. First, the energy balances are examined in idealized simulations with mode‐1 internal tides propagating across and along the Gulf Stream. Next, the fully nonlinear dynamics of regional tide‐mean‐flow interactions are simulated with a primitive‐equation model, which incorporates realistic summer‐mesoscale features and atmospheric forcing. The shelfbreak front, which has horizontally variable stratification, decreases topographic internal‐tide generation by about 10% and alters the wavelengths and arrival times of locally generated mode‐1 internal tides on the shelf and in the abyss. The (sub)mesoscale variability at the front and on the shelf, as well as the summer stratification itself, also alter internal‐tide propagation. The Gulf Stream produces anomalous regions of
(20 mW m−2) mode‐1 internal‐tide energy‐flux divergence, which are explained by tide‐mean‐flow terms in the mode‐1 energy balance. Advection explains most tide‐mean‐flow interaction, suggesting that geometric wave theory explains mode‐1 reflection and refraction at the Gulf Stream. Geometric theory predicts that offshore‐propagating mode‐1 internal tides that strike the Gulf Stream at oblique angles (more than thirty degrees from normal) are reflected back to the coastal ocean, preventing their radiation into the central North Atlantic.
Select strengths and biases of models in representing the Arctic winter boundary layer over sea ice: the Larcform 1 single column model intercomparison
Authors: Pithan Felix , Ackerman Andrew , Angevine Wayne M. , Hartung Kerstin , Ickes Luisa , Kelley Maxwell , Medeiros Brian , Sandu Irina , Steeneveld Gert‐Jan , Sterk H. A. M. , Svensson Gunilla , Vaillancourt Paul A. , Zadra Ayrton
Published: August 2016

Weather and climate models struggle to represent lower tropospheric temperature and moisture profiles and surface fluxes in Arctic winter, partly because they lack or misrepresent physical processes that are specific to high latitudes. Observations have revealed two preferred states of the Arctic winter boundary layer. In the cloudy state, cloud liquid water limits surface radiative cooling, and temperature inversions are weak and elevated. In the radiatively clear state, strong surface radiative cooling leads to the build‐up of surface‐based temperature inversions. Many large‐scale models lack the cloudy state, and some substantially underestimate inversion strength in the clear state. Here, the transformation from a moist to a cold dry air mass is modeled using an idealized Lagrangian perspective. The trajectory includes both boundary layer states, and the single‐column experiment is the first Lagrangian Arctic air formation experiment (Larcform 1) organized within GEWEX GASS (Global atmospheric system studies). The intercomparison reproduces the typical biases of large‐scale models: some models lack the cloudy state of the boundary layer due to the representation of mixed‐phase microphysics or to the interaction between micro‐ and macrophysics. In some models, high emissivities of ice clouds or the lack of an insulating snow layer prevent the build‐up of surface‐based inversions in the radiatively clear state. Models substantially disagree on the amount of cloud liquid water in the cloudy state and on turbulent heat fluxes under clear skies. Observations of air mass transformations including both boundary layer states would allow for a tighter constraint of model behavior.
Digital FMCW for ultrawideband spectrum sensing
Authors: Cheema A. A. , Salous S.
Published: August 2016

An ultrawideband digital frequency‐modulated continuous wave sensing engine is proposed as an alternative technique for cognitive radio applications. A dual‐band demonstrator capable of sensing 750 MHz bandwidth in 204.8 µs is presented. Its performance is illustrated from both bench tests and from real‐time measurements of the GSM 900 band and the 2.4 GHz wireless local area network (WLAN) band. The measured sensitivity and noise figure values are −90 dBm for a signal‐to‐noise ratio margin of at least 10 dB and ~13–14 dB, respectively. Data were collected over 24 h and were analyzed by using the energy detection method. The obtained results show the time variability of occupancy, and considerable sections of the spectrum are unoccupied. In addition, unlike the cyclic temporal variations of spectrum occupancy in the GSM 900 band, the detected variations in the 2.4 GHz WLAN band have an impulsive nature.
The Effect of Porosity and Milling Induced Defects on the Thermoelectric Properties of p‐Type Bi2Te3‐Based Bulks
Authors: Zhang Cheng Cheng , Fan Xi An , Hu Jie , Jiang Cheng Peng , Feng Bo , Xiang Qiu Sheng , Li Guang Qiang , Li Ya Wei
Published: August 2016

The p‐type (Bi,Sb)2Te3 bulks are prepared from ball‐milling powders by resistance pressure sintering method and their thermoelectric properties are investigated as a function of ball milling time. Prolonging milling time would introduce more anti‐site defects, interaction of vacancies and antisite defect, grain‐boundaries and interface defects, leading to lower carrier concentration and mobility. The peak value of ZT = 1.0 is achieved at 300 K for the 5 h sample. When the testing temperature is over 323 K, the ZT value of the 0 h sample is higher than that of the 5 h sample. The effect of porosity on the thermoelectric properties is also investigated by effective medium theory. As the porosity increased, the electrical resistivity increases and the thermal conductivity decrease.
Efficient Radiative Pumping of Polaritons in a Strongly Coupled Microcavity by a Fluorescent Molecular Dye
Authors: Grant Richard T. , Michetti Paolo , Musser Andrew J. , Gregoire Pascal , Virgili Tersilla , Vella Eleonora , Cavazzini Marco , Georgiou Kyriacos , Galeotti Francesco , Clark Caspar , Clark Jenny , Silva Carlos , Lidzey David G.
Published: August 2016

The optical properties of a series of strongly coupled microcavities containing the fluorescent molecular dye BODIPY‐Br (bromine‐substituted boron‐dipyrromethene) dispersed into a transparent dielectric matrix are explored, with each cavity having a different exciton–photon detuning. Using temperature dependent emission, time‐resolved spectroscopy, white‐light reflectivity, and measurements of fluorescence quantum yield, the population of polaritons is explored along the lower polariton branch. It is found that both the cavity fluorescence quantum efficiency and the distribution of polariton states along the lower polariton branch is a function of exciton–photon detuning. Importantly, it is shown that in the most negatively detuned cavities, the emission quantum efficiency approaches that of a control (noncavity) film. A simple fitting model is developed, which is based upon direct radiative pumping of polariton states along the lower polariton branch and used it to obtain an excellent agreement with measured photoluminescence as a function of temperature and exciton–photon detuning, and qualitative agreement with the measured photoluminescence quantum efficiency. The radiative pumping mechanism indicates that to facilitate the formation of a nonequilibrium polariton condensate in strongly‐coupled microcavities containing dispersed molecular dyes, it is important to utilize materials having high fluorescent quantum efficiency and fast radiative rates.
Reagent/Substituent Switching Approach for the Synthesis of Substituted 1,3,4‐Oxadiazole/1,3,4‐Oxadiazoline and 1,2,4‐Triazole Derivatives from N‐Substituted Hydrazides
Authors: Kotipalli Trimurtulu , Kavala Veerababurao , Konala Ashok , Janreddy Donala , Kuo Chu‐Wei , Yao Ching‐Fa
Published: August 2016

A metal‐free method for the synthesis of substituted 1,3,4‐oxadiazole/1,3,4‐oxadiazoline and 1,2,4‐triazole derivatives from a common starting material via reagent/substituent switching is reported. In the presence of 2‐fluoropyridine/triflic anhydride, 1,3,4‐oxadiazole derivatives were exclusively formed from N′‐tert‐butylhydrazides and 1,3,4‐oxadiazoline derivatives were produced from N‐phenylhydrazides. On the other hand, when using pyridine/triflic anhydride, salts of 1,2,4‐triazoles were the sole products.

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A Metal‐Organic Framework Brønsted Acid Catalyst: Synthesis, Characterization and Application to the Generation of Quinone Methides for [4+2] Cycloadditions
Authors: Qi Chao , Ramella Daniele , Wensley Allison M. , Luan Yi
Published: August 2016

A Brønsted acid‐derived metal‐organic framework (MOF) has been developed to serve as an efficient heterogeneous catalyst for a [4+2] cycloaddition. Aromatic sulfonyl groups were successfully installed using commercially available anhydridic reagents during post‐synthetic modifications. The MIL‐101‐NH‐RSO3H MOF catalyst was fully characterized by SEM, PXRD, FTIR, TGA and N2 adsorption/desorption isotherm. Furthermore, a novel [4+2] cycloaddition of substituted 2‐vinyl‐substituted phenol was evaluated. The MIL‐101‐NH‐RSO3H catalyst showed superior catalytic capabilities when compared to a few other strong homogeneous Brønsted acid catalysts. The MIL‐101‐NH‐RSO3H catalyst is compatible with a variety of substituted substrates and it can be recycled five times without loss of yield or selectivity.

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One‐Pot Synthesis of Fluorovinyl Acetates and β,β‐Difluoro Carboxylates from a Hypervalent Iodine and Hydrogen Fluoride‐Based Fluorination Reagent
Authors: Song Zhidong , Yi Wenbin
Published: August 2016

A new strategy for the synthesis of fluorovinyl acetates and β,β‐difluoro carboxylates using a hypervalent iodine and hydrogen fluoride‐based fluorination reagent is established through a silver‐catalyzed one‐pot reaction involving formation of carbon‐oxygen and carbon‐nitrogen bonds. The generated fluoroalkenes substituted with the carbon‐oxygen and carbon‐nitrogen bond on the β‐position have the potential to be transformed into various products which would be difficult to obtain via direct fluorination.

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Stereoselective Synthesis of Hydropyrano[3,2‐b]indoles via Organocatalytic Asymmetric Inverse‐Electron‐Demand Oxa‐Diels–Alder Reaction
Authors: Yang Lei , Huang Wei , He Xiang‐Hong , Yang Ming‐Cheng , Li Xiang , He Gu , Peng Cheng , Han Bo
Published: August 2016

Enantio‐ and diastereoselective inverse‐electron‐demand oxa‐Diels–Alder reactions are described between (Z)‐2‐ylideneoxindoles and aldehydes in the presence of a chiral secondary amine catalyst. The corresponding hydropyrano[3,2‐b]indoles are produced in up to 77% yield with up to 99% ee. Convenient synthetic transformations of the products readily lead to pharmacologically interesting scaffolds bearing multiple functional groups. This method may also provide an alternative approach for the asymmetric synthesis of 2‐spirocyclo‐3‐oxindoles.

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3D morphometry aids facial analysis of individuals with a childhood cancer
Authors: Hopman Saskia M. J. , Merks Johannes H. M. , Suttie Michael , Hennekam Raoul C. M. , Hammond Peter
Published: August 2016

A group of patients who had cancer as a child were previously found to have distinct patterns of morphological abnormalities. In this study, we investigated the added value of 3D shape analysis to characterize their facial morphology. Primarily, we showed in an objective and quantitative manner that the overall facial dysmorphism of the individuals who had had a childhood cancer was significantly greater than that of the controls. We also demonstrated how the same approach can be used to detect a similar disparity for a more localized malar region comprising customized disconnected patches defined on both sides of the face. In addition, by comparing original face surfaces to their mirrored forms, we confirmed that the patient group had significantly greater facial asymmetry than the controls. Each of these results made use of surface shape differences not detectable by simple linear or angular characteristics as might be used in analyses based on measures captured manually or derived from landmarks annotating 2D photographic images. We conclude that 3D morphometric analysis of a relatively small heterogeneous patient group can further delineate face shape differences from typically developing individuals that are too subtle or geometrically complex to identify or quantify objectively with conventional clinical and anthropometric approaches. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Recurrent chronic histiocytic intervillositis with intrauterine growth restriction, osteopenia, and fractures
Authors: Crawford April , Moore Lynette , Bennett Gregory , Savarirayan Ravi , Manton Nicholas , Khong Yee , Barnett Christopher P. , Haan Eric
Published: August 2016

Chronic histiocytic intervillositis (CHI) is characterized by the presence of histiocytes within the intervillous space of the placenta. The pathogenesis is unclear but available evidence supports an alloimmune mechanism on the basis of the presence in maternal blood of HLA antibodies directed against paternal HLA antigens. CHI has a high risk of recurrence and of abnormal perinatal outcomes. Little is known about the effects of CHI on the developing fetus, in particular on the growth and development of the skeleton. We have studied a woman whose third pregnancy was terminated after ultrasonography showed severe intrauterine growth restriction, raising the possibility of a lethal skeletal dysplasia. Postmortem radiographs showed multiple fractures and other signs of osteogenesis imperfecta (OI). However, bone histology was not typical of OI and no abnormalities were identified by sequencing OI genes. The subsequent pregnancy was also severely growth restricted and was terminated. The placenta showed chronic histiocytic intervillositis, which, on retrospective review, had also been present in her second and third pregnancies. Her fifth pregnancy was again associated with intrauterine growth restriction and CHI but resulted in a premature birth. CHI can be associated with radiographic features that mimic OI and should be considered when fetal fractures occur in the context of recurrent miscarriage, fetal death in utero, and intrauterine growth restriction. The correct diagnosis can be made by histopathology of the placenta, supported by bone histology and normal results of molecular studies for OI. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The syndrome dysmorphic facies, renal agenesis, ambiguous genitalia, microcephaly, polydactyly and lissencephaly (DREAM‐PL): Report of two additional patients
Authors: Shaheen Ranad , Al‐Salam Zakariya , El‐Hattab Ayman W. , Alkuraya Fowzan S.
Published: August 2016

We have recently described a newly recognized syndromic form of congenital microcephaly as part of a large cohort of apparently novel dysmorphic syndromes. The reported Saudi Arabian patients have severe primary microcephaly, ambiguous male genitalia, dysmorphic facies, polydactyly, and renal agenesis. The same homozygous CTU2 mutation was identified in all patients. Although the nucleotide change c.873G>A does not change the codon, it completely abolishes a consensus donor site resulting in frameshift and premature truncation ((NM_001012762.1): p.Thr247Alafs*21). In this report, we describe two cousins from United Arab Emirates whose clinical presentation was consistent with this recently described syndrome and both were found to have the same mutation on the same haplotypic background. We propose the acronym DREAM‐PL to highlight the main clinical features of this syndrome, which we believe is underdiagnosed by exome sequencing based on the high carrier frequency, most likely due to the apparently synonymous nature of the mutation. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Esters, Including Triglycerides, and Hydrogen as Feedstocks for the Ruthenium‐Catalyzed Direct N‐Alkylation of Amines
Authors: Adam Rosa , Cabrero‐Antonino Jose R. , Junge Kathrin , Jackstell Ralf , Beller Matthias
Published: August 2016

Triglycerides are used for the direct N‐alkylation of amines with molecular hydrogen for the first time. A broad range of interesting and industrially relevant secondary and tertiary amines are obtained in the presence of an in situ formed Ru/Triphos complex. Notably, plant oil can be efficiently applied in this single‐step process. Moreover, a variety of other methyl esters can be used as N‐alkylation agents in the presence of hydrogen for the synthesis of more advanced building blocks.