bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Designing and Developing Exercises to Enhance Capability - A Meta Analytic View
Authors: Varghese Geeva , Coolbaugh Thomas
Published: December 2017

A robust preparedness framework is essential to maximize response effectiveness and safeguard success. Exercises are an integral part of oil spill preparedness and emergency management. Exercises enhance the capability of an organization to respond by validating plans and procedures and seeking affirmations on assumptions and stakeholder expectations. Since planning and preparing for exercises can be costly and time consuming, it is important that lessons learned are accurately captured, widely communicated and implemented in a timely manner so that they can lead to measurable improvements in the way we prepare and respond to incidents.

On average, international Oil Spill Response Organizations (OSRO) may be involved in thirty to forty oil spill response exercises in a given year, ranging from small scale exercises testing communication between various stakeholders to highly complex, multi-agency, multi-jurisdictional scenarios. Participation in multiple exercises in various capacities ranging from planning, designing and facilitation to participation, performance and capability assurance as an Oil Spill Response Organization, presents varied opportunities to view and analyze exercises from both ends of the spectrum, as a planner as well as a participant. A meta-analysis of these exercises offers a unique opportunity to systematically identify recurring areas for improvement and to examine new avenues to explore and test capabilities with operators who have established robust exercise programs. A key outcome of this would be to translate learnings into important enhancements for industry’s collective response and preparedness capability.

This paper presents a meta-analysis view of recent OSRO-industry exercises with a focus on a comparative assessment of specific After Action Reviews (AAR). The purpose is to identify common themes in terms of lessons learned and areas for improvement, especially when designing and planning future exercises. It also considers whether exercises have evolved to incorporate changing response capabilities and realistically testing any increased information requirements of the stakeholder community. Finally, it will also examine how successfully companies have sought out emerging technologies that will positively impact preparedness, response and recovery. It is anticipated that the recommendations put forward from this meta-analysis will assist operators in realizing the full benefits of the time and effort invested in exercise programs.
GROWING SUBJECT MATTER EXPERTS – NATURE VS NURTURE
Authors: Rouse Dave , Wasche Dean , Couch Andrew
Published: December 2017

Think of someone you know in the field of spill response who has deep technical expertise in a particular area. Now think about how they got to where they are. Chances are, they have a background in a related field, and stumbled into spill response opportunistically. They found it interesting, and set about investing time and energy in a particular area until they became recognised across the industry as a subject matter expert. If you look at your own career path, you may recognise similarities.

In the ‘nature vs nurture’ argument, this is ‘nature’ - the organic development of an oil spill expert over a long period, reliant on being in the right place, at the right time, many times over. So can an oil spill subject matter expert be nurtured and developed under a form of stewardship programme?

There are no shortcuts to developing deep expertise, but there are efficiencies to be realised. This is especially pertinent in today’s industry backdrop of cost-control and ‘doing more with less’ in the context of succession planning for future expertise. We need a structured, efficient and deliberate framework to build the next generation.

This paper will describe an approach to growing subject matter experts in spill response, which starts with OSRL’s 30-plus years of training oil spill experts, mixes in the best from industry’s graduate and SME development programmes and blends in techniques drawn from the UK’s Royal Military Academy Sandhurst’s officer training programmes and the world of sport psychology.

The approach is underpinned by the principles of andragogy – the method and practice of teaching adult learners – and designed around the distinct capabilities defined in the Tiered Preparedness and Response framework. In practice, the approach combines structured competence-based training, values based leadership, and focussed coaching and mentoring.

It accelerates the development of someone with no spill response experience and provides the building blocks which allow them to become a solid oil spill expert. For those who wish to specialise, it gives pathways and opportunities to achieving deep expertise in niche aspects of our discipline.

We can’t strip out the need to be in the right place, at the right time, time after time… but this approach reduces the role that luck plays in an individual’s journey to become an industry-recognised authority.
Angola Coastal Mapping and Tactics for Oil Spill Response
Authors: Taylor Elliott , Graham Andy , Rios Jose , Huet Jean-Yves , Page-Jones Lindsay , Ivaba Gabriel
Published: December 2017

The Angolan oil and gas industry workgroup (ACEPA-Associação das Companhias de Exploração e Produção de Angola) continues to collaborate in the development and completion of oil spill response initiatives as responsible operators and committed participants in the IMO-IPIECA Global Initiative for West, Central and Southern Africa (GI WACAF). Between 2012–2015, a comprehensive program of oil spill response planning, geodatabase development, mapping, and guides were completed for the entire coast of Angola. Low altitude aerial video surveys that combine oblique imagery and a verbal commentary record were recorded as the foundation for mapping coastal sensitivities, ESI characterization, shore zone and backshore operational definition, and shoreline segmentation. Other information added to the coastal geodatabase includes operational and logistical considerations such as land access and boat launch locations, proposed sites for staging, holding of temporary wastes, industrial and human use (fishing, recreational), and nearshore access constraints. A key aspect of the shoreline mapping effort was to build the information into a stand-alone pre-shoreline cleanup assessment technique (SCAT)-database that provides layered information for each of the 1999 shoreline segments. Digital video and high-resolution oblique aerial photos for 2400 km of coastline are geo-referenced and integrated into the GIS system with viewer software that allows the user to “fly” the shoreline. Shoreline attributes for biological, socioeconomic, and human use were used to rank 117 sensitive sites. The 45 highest priority sensitive sites were surveyed and detailed geographic response plans (GRPs) for site protection strategies and tactics were compiled into two atlases. The comprehensive coastal characterization, segmentation, and priority site protection plans provide the Angola government and oil industry with spill preparedness tools that are world-class.
Thermal Properties and Burning Efficiencies of Crude Oils and Refined Fuel Oil
Authors: van Gelderen Laurens , Alva Ulises Rojas , Mindykowski Pierrick , Jomaas Grunde
Published: December 2017

The thermal properties and burning efficiencies of fresh and weathered crude oils and a refined fuel oil were studied in order to improve the available input data for field ignition systems for the in-situ burning of crude oil on water. The time to ignition, surface temperature upon ignition, heat release rate, burning rate and burning efficiency of two fresh crude oils (DUC, a light crude and Grane, a heavy crude), one fresh refined fuel oil (IFO 180) and weathered DUC (30–40 wt% evaporated and 40 wt% evaporated with 40 vol% water) were tested. Experiments were conducted in a newly designed water-cooled holder for a cone calorimeter under incident heat fluxes of 0, 5, 10, 20, 30, 40 and 50 kW/m2. The results clearly showed that the weathered oils were the hardest to ignite, with increased ignition times and critical heat fluxes of 5–10 kW/m2. Evaporation and emulsification were shown to be the determining factors increasing the critical heat flux compared to the physical properties of the oils. Boilover was observed for both emulsified DUC and fresh Grane and dominated the energy released by these oils. These results provided further evidence that the boilover phenomenon is correlated to the superheating of relatively volatile components such as water (DUC emulsion) or light hydrocarbons (Grane). Boilovers can thus occur due to inherent properties of the burning oil and should therefore be taken into account in the safety planning of in-situ burning operations. Maximum burning efficiencies of 85–90% were obtained for heat fluxes of 40–50 kW/m2 for the crude oils and 80% at 30 kW/m2 for IFO 180. The heat feedback in large scale fires, however, was estimated to be about 17 kW/m2, for which the burning efficiencies were < 80%. These results indicate that the increased heat feedback to the fuel surface is not the only factor that increases the burning efficiency for large scale fires compared to laboratory experiments. Additional factors such as feeding of surrounding oil into the fire by buoyancy induced wind flows into the hot smoke plume are probably also contributing to these increased burning efficiencies.
Under‐Ice Phytoplankton Blooms Inhibited by Spring Convective Mixing in Refreezing Leads
Authors: Lowry Kate E. , Pickart Robert S. , Selz Virginia , Mills Matthew M. , Pacini Astrid , Lewis Kate M. , Joy‐Warren Hannah L. , Nobre Carolina , van Dijken Gert L. , Grondin Pierre‐Luc , Ferland Joannie , Arrigo Kevin R.
Published: December 2017

Spring phytoplankton growth in polar marine ecosystems is limited by light availability beneath ice‐covered waters, particularly early in the season prior to snowmelt and melt pond formation. Leads of open water increase light transmission to the ice‐covered ocean and are sites of air‐sea exchange. We explore the role of leads in controlling phytoplankton bloom dynamics within the sea ice zone of the Arctic Ocean. Data are presented from spring measurements in the Chukchi Sea during the Study of Under‐ice Blooms In the Chukchi Ecosystem (SUBICE) program in May and June 2014. We observed that fully consolidated sea ice supported modest under‐ice blooms, while waters beneath sea ice with leads had significantly lower phytoplankton biomass, despite high nutrient availability. Through an analysis of hydrographic and biological properties, we attribute this counterintuitive finding to springtime convective mixing in refreezing leads of open water. Our results demonstrate that waters beneath loosely consolidated sea ice (84–95% ice concentration) had weak stratification and were frequently mixed below the critical depth (the depth at which depth‐integrated production balances depth‐integrated respiration). These findings are supported by theoretical model calculations of under‐ice light, primary production, and critical depth at varied lead fractions. The model demonstrates that under‐ice blooms can form even beneath snow‐covered sea ice in the absence of mixing but not in more deeply mixed waters beneath sea ice with refreezing leads. Future estimates of primary production should account for these phytoplankton dynamics in ice‐covered waters.
Electron Dynamics Within the Electron Diffusion Region of Asymmetric Reconnection
Authors: Argall M. R. , Paulson K. , Alm L. , Rager A. , Dorelli J. , Shuster J. , Wang S. , Torbert R. B. , Vaith H. , Dors I. , Chutter M. , Farrugia C. , Burch J. , Pollock C. , Giles B. , Gershman D. , Lavraud B. , Russell C. T. , Strangeway R. , Magnes W. , Lindqvist P.‐A. , Khotyaintsev Yu. V. , Ergun R. E. , Ahmadi N.
Published: December 2017

We investigate the agyrotropic nature of electron distribution functions and their substructure to illuminate electron dynamics in a previously reported electron diffusion region (EDR) event. In particular, agyrotropy is examined as a function of energy to reveal detailed finite Larmor radius effects for the first time. It is shown that the previously reported ∼66 eV agyrotropic “crescent” population that has been accelerated as a result of reconnection is evanescent in nature because it mixes with a denser, gyrotopic background. Meanwhile, accelerated agyrotropic populations at 250 and 500 eV are more prominent because the background plasma at those energies is more tenuous. Agyrotropy at 250 and 500 eV is also more persistent than at 66 eV because of finite Larmor radius effects; agyrotropy is observed 2.5 ion inertial lengths from the EDR at 500 eV, but only in close proximity to the EDR at 66 eV. We also observe linearly polarized electrostatic waves leading up to and within the EDR. They have wave normal angles near 90°, and their occurrence and intensity correlate with agyrotropy. Within the EDR, they modulate the flux of 500 eV electrons travelling along the current layer. The net electric field intensifies the reconnection current, resulting in a flow of energy from the fields into the plasma.
The Occurrence of Ideal Plastic State in CP Titanium Processed by Twist Extrusion
Authors: Reshetov Aleksey , Kulagin Roman , Korshunov Alexander , Beygelzimer Yan
Published: December 2017

This paper deals with the analysis of strength and plastic characteristics of commercially pure (CP) titanium as a function of equivalent plastic strain accumulated during Twist Extrusion (TE) process. It is shown experimentally that multipass TE leads to the saturation of the following characteristics of the material: yield stress, reduction in area, elongation to failure, and uniform elongation. This fact indicates the occurrence of an ideal plastic state in the processed material. The threshold value of accumulated plastic strain for ideal plastic behavior of CP titanium during TE is defined. The strain state and mechanical properties of CP titanium billets processed by TE are studied. An explanation for the hardening on the axis of a billet during TE is offered. The analysis of deformation modes on the billet axis during TE and High Pressure Torsion is carried out. It is shown that the differences in strain state on the axis are caused by the difference in symmetry of these processes.
A novel SAMD9 mutation causing MIRAGE syndrome: An expansion and review of phenotype, dysmorphology, and natural history
Authors: Jeffries Lauren , Shima Hirohito , Ji Weizhen , Panisello‐Manterola David , McGrath James , Bird Lynne M. , Konstantino Monica , Narumi Satoshi , Lakhani Saquib
Published: December 2017

Germline gain‐of‐function variants in SAMD9 have been associated with a high risk of mortality and a newly recognized constellation of symptoms described by the acronym MIRAGE: Myelodysplasia, Infection, Restriction of growth, Adrenal insufficiency, Genital phenotypes, and Enteropathy. Here, we describe two additional patients currently living with the syndrome, including one patient with a novel de novo variant for which we provide functional data supporting its pathogenicity. We discuss features of dysmorphology, contrasting with previously described patients as well as drawing attention to additional clinical features, dysautonomia and hearing loss that have not previously been reported. We detail both patients’ courses following diagnosis, with attention to treatment plans and recommended specialist care. Our patients are the oldest known with arginine‐substituting amino acid variants, and we conclude that early diagnosis and multidisciplinary management may positively impact outcomes for this vulnerable group of patients.
Abundance, activity and critical habitat of the striped dolphinStenella coeruleoalbain the Gulf of Taranto (northern Ionian Sea, central Mediterranean Sea)
Authors: Carlucci Roberto , Ricci Pasquale , Cipriano Giulia , Fanizza Carmelo
Published: December 2017

Abundance, density, daily variation in group size, activity and habitat use of the striped dolphin in the Gulf of Taranto (northern Ionian Sea, central Mediterranean Sea) were investigated using data from sightings collected between April 2009 and December 2016 during standardized vessel‐based surveys. Density and abundance were estimated in the survey area by means of conventional distance sampling, resulting in 0.97 specimens/km2(CV = 5.77%; 95% CI = 0.86–1.08 specimens/km2) and 615 specimens (CV = 5.77%; 95% CI = 549–689 specimens), respectively.

Group size data were analysed using multivariate methods. The changes in group size, depth and percentage occurrence of activity between daily periods were investigated with non‐parametric tests. The spatio‐temporal distribution of the striped dolphin in each predominant activity was investigated by means of the ordinary Kriging method.

Fifteen year‐maps of spatial prediction were produced, allowing the identification of persistent areas. The results delineate a critical habitat of about 150 km2in the northernmost ‘Taranto Valley’ canyon system ranging between 140 and 910 m in depth. This critical habitat was persistently and regularly used by an important estimated population of striped dolphins for their day‐to‐day survival and maintenance in a healthy condition.

The intense human use occurring in the area highlights the need for local, national and EU management to set a comprehensive strategy.

The establishment of a SPAMI (Specially Protected Area of Mediterranean Importance) as an effective tool for the conservation of the species is suggested. The consequence of establishing a closed area could be reasonably accepted by local concurrent stakeholders. Indeed, limiting access through the establishment of this small closed area would result in the protection of a habitat acting as an ecological refuge for many other pelagic and demersal species of commercial interest, thus favouring their spill over.
Study of Endochondral Ossification in Human Fetalcartilage Anlagen of Metacarpals: Comparative Morphology of Mineral Deposition in Cartilage and in the Periosteal Bone Matrix
Authors: Pazzaglia Ugo E. , Reguzzoni Marcella , Pagani Francesca , Sibilia Valeria , Congiu Terenzio , Salvi Andrea G. , Benetti Anna
Published: December 2017

The progression of mineral phase deposition in hypertrophic cartilage and periosteal bone matrix was studied in human metacarpals primary ossification centers before vascular invasion began. This study aimed to provide a morphologic/morphometric comparative analysis of the calcification process in cartilage and periosteal osteoid used as models of endochondral ossification. Thin, sequential sections from the same paraffin inclusions of metacarpal anlagen (gestational age between the 20th and 22nd weeks) were examined with light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy, either stained or heat‐deproteinated. This process enabled the analysis of corresponding fields using the different methods. From the initial CaPO4 nucleation in cartilage matrix, calcification progressed increasing the size of focal, globular, randomly distributed deposits (size range 0.5–5 µm), followed by aggregation into polycyclic clusters and finally forming a dense, compact mass of calcified cartilage. At the same time, the early osteoid calcification was characterized by a fine granular pattern (size range 0.1–0.5 µm), which was soon compacted in the layer of the first periosteal lamella. Scanning electron microscopy of heat‐deproteinated sections revealed a rod‐like hydroxyapatite crystallite pattern, with only size differences between the early globular deposits of the two calcifying matrices. The morphology of the early calcium deposits was similar in both cartilage and osteoid, with variations in size and density only. However, integration of the reported data with the actual hypotheses of the mechanisms of Ca concentration suggested that ion transport was linked to the progression of the chondrocyte maturation cycle (with recall of H2O from the matrix) in cartilage, while ions transport was an active process through the cell membrane in osteoid. Other considered factors were the collagen type specificity and the matrix fibrillar texture. Anat Rec, 301:571–580, 2018. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Age, Size, and Growth of the Turkish Endemic Frog Pelophylax Caralitanus (Anura: Ranidae)
Authors: Erismis Ugur Cengiz
Published: December 2017

Pelophylax caralitanus is a medium‐sized frog that is endemic to the upland Lake District of south‐central Turkey and currently identified as a threatened species as a result of overharvesting and habitat modification. In this report, demographic data are provided for four major lakeside populations of this species based on a skeletochronological analysis of bone growth in large samples of frogs that were captured and released during 2011 and 2013. Adult males (aged 2–9 years) and females (aged 2–10 years) ranged in size from 66 to 105 mm snout‐vent length (SVL) and 65 to 110 mm SVL, respectively, and typically attained sexual maturity in their second (low‐elevation sites) or third (high‐elevation sites) summer of growth following metamorphosis. The four populations exhibited differences in growth rate and age at sexual maturity, which appeared to reflect differences in the average monthly temperature and length of the growth season rather than elevation per se, that is, warmer temperatures and longer growth seasons resulted in smaller adults. All populations had a similar overall age structure, with approximately equal frequencies of individuals in the five age and size classes following maturity. Anat Rec, 301:1224–1234, 2018. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Polarized Ends of Human Macula Densa Cells: Ultrastructural Investigation and Morphofunctional Correlations
Authors: Cangiotti Angela Maria , Lorenzi Teresa , Zingaretti Maria Cristina , Fabri Mara , Morroni Manrico
Published: December 2017

The morphology of the kidney macula densa (MD) has extensively been investigated in animals, whereas human studies are scanty. We studied the fine structure of human MD cells focusing on their apical and basal ends and correlating structure and function. The MD region was examined by transmission electron microscopy in six renal biopsies from patients with kidney disease. Ultrastructural analysis of MD cells was performed on serial sections. MD cells show two polarized ends. The apical portion is characterized by a single, immotile cilium associated with microvilli; apically, cells are joined by adhering junctions. In the basal portion, the cytoplasm contains small, dense granules and numerous, irregular cytoplasmic projections extending to the adjacent extraglomerular mesangium. The projections often contain small, dense granules. A reticulated basement membrane around MD cells separates them from the extraglomerular mesangium. Although the fact that tissue specimens came from patients with kidney disease mandates extreme caution, ultrastructural examination confirmed that MD cells have sensory features due to the presence of the primary cilium, that they are connected by apical adhering junctions forming a barrier that separates the tubular flow from the interstitium, and that they present numerous basal interdigitations surrounded by a reticulated basement membrane. Conceivably, the latter two features are related to the functional activity of the MD. The small, dense granules in the basal cytoplasm and in cytoplasmic projections are likely related to the paracrine function of MD cells. Anat Rec, 301:922–931, 2018. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Morphogenesis of the Middle Ear during Fetal Development as Observed Via Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Ohtsuki Sae , Ishikawa Aoi , Yamada Shigehito , Imai Hirohiko , Matsuda Tetsuya , Takakuwa Tetsuya
Published: December 2017

Recently, our research group has utilized serial histological sections to investigate the morphogenesis of the middle ear, which corresponds to the period of middle ear ossicle (MEO) cartilage formation. However, research regarding middle ear development during the post‐embryonic period has been limited. In the present study, we investigated morphogenesis of the middle ear in human fetuses with a crown‐rump length (CRL) between 37 and 197 mm using high‐resolution magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Our findings indicated that the morphology of the MEOs is similar during fetal development and adulthood; further, growth of the MEOs nearly ceases once a CRL of 150 mm is attained. In each MEO, ossification spreads from a single center. The malleus and Meckel's cartilage could be discriminated in samples exhibiting a CRL of 145 mm based on differences in MRI signal intensity. In samples with a CRL of 86 mm, the tympanic cavity (TC) appeared as a thin yet distinct structure attached to the external auditory meatus at the convex surface. Only the handle of the malleus was covered by the TC, while the incus and stapes contacted the cavity at the region of articulation between the two ossicles only, even after a CRL of 145 mm had been attained. Thus, although the TC increased in both diameter and thickness, coverage did not extend across all three MEOs during the observation period. These data are expected to provide a useful standard for morphogenesis and may aid researchers in distinguishing between normal and abnormal development. Anat Rec, 301:757–764, 2018. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals Inc.
Mild‐Base‐Promoted Arylation of (Hetero)Arenes with Anilines
Authors: Monzón Diego M. , Santos Tanausú , Pinacho‐Crisóstomo F. , Martín Víctor S. , Carrillo Romen
Published: December 2017

Transition metal‐free radical arylation of heteroarenes is achieved at room temperature by simply adding aqueous sodium carbonate to a solution of the corresponding heteroarene and arenediazonium salt, which can even be formed in situ. Such an easy, inexpensive and mild methodology has been optimized and applied to the expeditious modification of interesting molecular cores like naphthylimide or bisthienylcyclopentenes.
Comparing growth in linguistic comprehension and reading comprehension in school‐aged children with autism versus typically developing children
Authors: Grimm Ryan P. , Solari Emily J. , McIntyre Nancy S. , Zajic Matthew , Mundy Peter C.
Published: December 2017

Many children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) struggle with reading comprehension. Linguistic comprehension is an important predictor of reading comprehension, especially as children progress through elementary school and later grades. Yet, there is a dearth of research examining longitudinal relations between linguistic comprehensions in school‐age children with ASD compared to typically‐developing peers (TD). This study compared the developmental trajectories of linguistic and reading comprehension in samples of children with ASD and age‐matched TD peers. Both groups were administered measures of linguistic and reading comprehension multiple times over a 30‐month period. Latent growth curve modeling demonstrated children with ASD performed at significantly lower levels on both measures at the first timepoint and these deficits persisted across time. Children with ASD exhibited growth in both skills comparable to their TD peers, but this was not sufficient to enable them to eventually achieve at a level similar to the TD group. Due to the wide age range of the sample, age was controlled and displayed significant effects. Findings suggest linguistic comprehension skills are related to reading comprehension in children with ASD, similar to TD peers. Further, intervention in linguistic comprehension skills for children with ASD should begin early and there may be a finite window in which these skills are malleable, in terms of improving reading comprehension skills. Autism Res 2018, 11: 624–635. © 2017 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Lay Summary

There is relatively little research concerning reading comprehension development in children with ASD and how they compare to TD peers. This study found children with ASD began at lower achievement levels of linguistic comprehension and reading comprehension than TD peers, but the skills developed at a similar rate. Intervening early and raising initial levels of linguistic and reading comprehension may enable children with ASD to perform similarly to TD peers over time.
A novel clinical test for partial tears of the distal biceps brachii tendon: The TILT sign
Authors: Shim Stephanie S. , Strauch Robert J.
Published: December 2017

Partial tears of the distal biceps brachii tendon are rare. A complete tear of the distal biceps brachii tendon is readily diagnosed on the basis of history and physical examination and has a well‐described clinical presentation of acute pain in the antecubital fossa, localized tenderness, swelling, palpable defect, positive hook test, and weakness in forearm supination and elbow flexion. Partial tears, on the other hand, can present more subtly and remain a diagnostic challenge. We present a novel physical examination technique that utilizes the rotational anatomy of the radius. The patient's forearm is passively supinated and pronated with the elbow flexed to 90° while the examiner firmly palpates the dorsal forearm overlying the radial tuberosity. The tuberosity presents itself beneath the examining fingers only in full forearm pronation. A positive test is indicated by tenderness over the radial (or lateral) aspect of the tuberosity (TILT sign) only in full forearm pronation, and not in supination. We have found this diagnostic test to be 100% sensitive for diagnosing partial distal biceps brachii tendon tears over the last five years during which it has been in use. Representative example cases are presented. A positive TILT sign indicates a diagnosis of partial tear of the distal biceps brachii tendon. This simple diagnostic maneuver could facilitate earlier detection of these injuries. Clin. Anat. 31:301–303, 2018. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Mechanistic Aspects of Acrylic Acid Formation from CO2–Ethylene Coupling over Palladium‐ and Nickel‐based Catalysts
Authors: Li Yuanhui , Liu Zhen , Cheng Ruihua , Liu Boping
Published: December 2017

The detailed mechanism of catalytic conversion of CO2 and ethylene to acrylic acid has been investigated through DFT and DLPNO‐CCSD(T) calculations. Four bidentate ligands, dmpe (1,2‐bis(dimethylphosphino)ethane), dcpe (1,2‐bis(dicyclohexylphosphino)ethane), dtbpe (1,2‐bis(di‐tert‐butylphosphino)ethane), and tmeda (tetramethylethylenediamine) were systematically studied to understand the different catalytic behavior of the Pd‐based catalyst and the well‐known Ni‐based catalyst. The energy barrier of Pd‐/Ni‐catalyzed C−C coupling appears to increase with the larger steric hindrance of the ligand, whereas the barrier of the corresponding β‐H elimination shows an opposite tendency. The barrier for C−C coupling is likely higher than the associated barrier for β‐H elimination in both catalytic systems provided that the coordinated ligand is bulky enough. The palladium catalytic center is more effective than the nickel center for the C−C coupling and β‐H elimination steps in the presence of bulky ligands, whereas the nickel catalyst in turn performs better with small ligands. The palladium catalyst tends to be superior to the nickel catalyst during the following hydrogen transfer to the O atom. In general, the diamine ligand (tmeda) is less efficient than the diphosphine ligands for both systems. In the absence of the auxiliaries, a novel chelating carbene ligand was proposed to be quite efficient for Pd‐catalyzed C−C coupling. Two ligands (dcpm, dtbpm) showed relatively better performance towards the palladium‐catalyzed acrylic acid formation reaction among all the investigated ligands.
Peptide‐Driven Charge‐Transfer Organogels Built from Synergetic Hydrogen Bonding and Pyrene–Naphthalenediimide Donor–Acceptor Interactions
Authors: Bartocci Silvia , Berrocal José Augusto , Guarracino Paola , Grillaud Maxime , Franco Lorenzo , Mba Miriam
Published: December 2017

The peptide‐driven formation of charge transfer (CT) supramolecular gels featuring both directional hydrogen‐bonding and donor–acceptor (D‐A) complexation is reported. Our design consists of the coassembly of two dipeptide–chromophore conjugates, namely diphenylalanine (FF) dipeptide conveniently functionalized at the N‐terminus with either a pyrene (Py‐1, donor) or naphthalene diimide (NDI‐1, acceptor). UV/Vis spectroscopy confirmed the formation of CT complexes. FTIR and 1H NMR spectroscopy studies underlined the pivotal role of hydrogen bonding in the gelation process, and electronic paramagnetic resonance (EPR) measurements unraveled the advantage of preorganized CT supramolecular architectures for charge transport over solutions containing non‐coassembled D and A molecular systems.
Personal history of proliferative breast disease with atypia and risk of multifocal breast cancer
Authors: Nutter Ellen L. , Weiss Julia E. , Marotti Jonathan D. , Barth Richard J. , Eliassen M. Scottie , Goodrich Martha E. , Petersen Curtis L. , Onega Tracy
Published: December 2017

BACKGROUND

A history of proliferative breast disease with atypia (PBDA) may be indicative of an increased risk not just of breast cancer but also of a more aggressive form of breast cancer.

METHODS

Multifocal breast cancer (MFBC), defined as 2 or more tumors in the same breast upon a diagnosis of cancer, is associated with a poorer prognosis than unifocal (single‐tumor) breast cancer. PBDA, including atypical ductal hyperplasia and atypical lobular hyperplasia, is a known risk factor for breast cancer. Using New Hampshire Mammography Network data collected for 3567 women diagnosed with incident breast cancer from 2004 to 2014, this study assessed the risk of MFBC associated with a previous diagnosis of PBDA.

RESULTS

Women with a history of PBDA were found to be twice as likely to be subsequently diagnosed with MFBC as women with no history of benign breast disease (BBD; odds ratio [OR], 2.23; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.08‐4.61). Ductal carcinoma in situ on initial biopsy was associated with a 2‐fold increased risk of MFBC in comparison with invasive cancer (OR, 2.13; 95% CI, 1.58‐2.88). BBD and proliferative BBD without atypia were not associated with MFBC.

CONCLUSIONS

Women with a history of previous PBDA may be at increased risk for MFBC. Women with a history of PBDA may benefit from additional presurgical clinical workup. Cancer 2018;124:1350‐7. © 2017 American Cancer Society.
MapReduce‐based parallel GEP algorithm for efficient function mining in big data applications
Authors: Liu Yang , Ma Chenxiao , Xu Lixiong , Shen Xiaodong , Li Maozhen , Li Pengcheng
Published: December 2017

Gene expression programming (GEP) algorithm is one of the most effective function mining algorithms in enabling the mathematical equation fitting for the input dataset. However, GEP algorithm encounters low efficiency issue in big data processing due to large overhead in its evolution when it handles the large‐scale data. In order to solve the issue, this paper presents two parallelized GEP algorithms using MapReduce. Based on data separation, the first algorithm aims at speeding up the large‐scale classification. However, it is lack of ability to output the mined equation explicitly. Therefore, based on the further improvements of the first algorithm, the second parallelized GEP algorithm aims at mining the equation efficiently and also outputs the equation explicitly and directly. The experimental results show that both algorithms are effective for processing large volume of data.
ImageCL: Language and source‐to‐source compiler for performance portability, load balancing, and scalability prediction on heterogeneous systems
Authors: Falch Thomas L. , Elster Anne C.
Published: December 2017

Applications written for heterogeneous CPU‐GPU systems often suffer from poor performance portability. Finding good work partitions can also be challenging as different devices are suited for different applications.

This article describes ImageCL, a high‐level domain‐specific language and source‐to‐source compiler, targeting single system as well as distributed heterogeneous hardware. Initially targeting image processing algorithms, our framework now also handles general stencil‐based operations. It resembles OpenCL, but abstracts away performance optimization details which instead are handled by our source‐to‐source compiler. Machine learning‐based auto‐tuning is used to determine which optimizations to apply. For the distributed case, by measuring performance counters on a small input on one device, previously trained performance models are used to predict the throughput of the application on multiple different devices, making it possible to balance the load evenly. Models for the communication overhead are created in a similar fashion and used to predict the optimal number of nodes to use.

ImageCL outperforms other state‐of‐the‐art solutions on image processing benchmarks in several cases, achieving speedups of up to 4.57×. On both CPUs and GPUs we are only 3% and 2% slower than an oracle for load balancing and scalability prediction, respectively, using synthetic benchmarks.
A portable class of 3‐transistor current references with low‐power sub‐0.5 V operation
Authors: Crupi Felice , De Rose Raffaele , Paliy Maksym , Lanuzza Marco , Perna Mattia , Iannaccone Giuseppe
Published: December 2017

This work proposes a new class of current references based on only 3 transistors that allows sub‐0.5 V operation. The circuit consists of a 2‐transistor block that generates a proportional‐to‐absolute‐temperature or a complementary‐to‐absolute‐temperature voltage and a load transistor. The idea of a 3T current reference is validated by circuit simulations for different complementary metal‐oxide‐semiconductor technologies and by experimental measurements on a large set of test chips fabricated with a commercial 0.18 μm complementary metal‐oxide‐semiconductor process. As compared to the state‐of‐art competitors, the 3T current reference exhibits competitive performance in terms of temperature coefficient (578 ppm/°C), line sensitivity (3.9%/V), and power consumption (213 nW) and presents a reduction by a factor of 2 to 3 in terms of minimum operating voltage (0.45 V) and an improvement of 1 to 2 orders of magnitude in terms of area occupation (750 μm2). In spite of the extremely reduced silicon area, the fabricated chips exhibit low‐process sensitivity (2.7%). A digital trimming solution to significantly reduce the process sensitivity is also presented and validated by simulations.
Multimodal approaches to functional connectivity in autism spectrum disorders: An integrative perspective
Authors: Mash Lisa E. , Reiter Maya A. , Linke Annika C. , Townsend Jeanne , Müller Ralph‐Axel
Published: December 2017

Atypical functional connectivity has been implicated in autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). However, the literature to date has been largely inconsistent, with mixed and conflicting reports of hypo‐ and hyper‐connectivity. These discrepancies are partly due to differences between various neuroimaging modalities. Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), electroencephalography (EEG), and magnetoencephalography (MEG) measure distinct indices of functional connectivity (e.g., blood‐oxygenation level‐dependent [BOLD] signal vs. electrical activity). Furthermore, each method has unique benefits and disadvantages with respect to spatial and temporal resolution, vulnerability to specific artifacts, and practical implementation. Thus far, functional connectivity research on ASDs has remained almost exclusively unimodal; therefore, interpreting findings across modalities remains a challenge. Multimodal integration of fMRI, EEG, and MEG data is critical in resolving discrepancies in the literature, and working toward a unifying framework for interpreting past and future findings. This review aims to provide a theoretical foundation for future multimodal research on ASDs. First, we will discuss the merits and shortcomings of several popular theories in ASD functional connectivity research, using examples from the literature to date. Next, the neurophysiological relationships between imaging modalities, including their relationship with invasive neural recordings, will be reviewed. Finally, methodological approaches to multimodal data integration will be presented, and their future application to ASDs will be discussed. Analyses relating transient patterns of neural activity (“states”) are particularly promising. This strategy provides a comparable measure across modalities, captures complex spatiotemporal patterns, and is a natural extension of recent dynamic fMRI research in ASDs. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol 78: 456–473, 2018
Quantified reproductive isolation inHeliconiusbutterflies: Implications for introgression and hybrid speciation
Authors: Garzón‐Orduña Ivonne J. , Brower Andrew V. Z.
Published: December 2017

Heliconiusbutterflies have become a model for the study of speciation with gene flow. For adaptive introgression to take place, there must be incomplete barriers to gene exchange that allow interspecific hybridization and multiple generations of backcrossing. The recent publication of estimates of individual components of reproductive isolation between several species of butterflies in theHeliconius melpomene–H. cydnoclade allowed us to calculate total reproductive isolation estimates for these species. According to these estimates, the butterflies are not as promiscuous as has been implied. Differences between species are maintained by intrinsic mechanisms, while reproductive isolation of geographical races within species is mainly due to allopatry. We discuss the implications of this strong isolation for basic aspects of the hybrid speciation with introgression hypothesis.
Detection of ROS Generated by UV‐C Irradiation of CdS Quantum Dots and their Effect on Damage to Chromosomal and Plasmid DNA
Authors: Blaškovičová Jana , Sochr Jozef , Koutsogiannis Anastasios , Diamantidou Dimitra , Kopel Pavel , Adam Vojtech , Labuda Ján
Published: December 2017

Different sensitivity of various types of DNA to damage and mutation requires a study of effects of chemical and physical factors on integrity of individual DNA structures. Oxidation stress induced by photoactivated nanoparticles including quantum dots is considered to be the main mechanism of their potential risks. In this work, spectrophotometric indicators of reactive oxygen species (ROS) 4‐chloro‐7‐nitrobenzo‐2‐oxa‐1,3‐diazole (NBD−Cl) and α‐diphenyl‐β‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), electrochemical DNA‐based biosensors with the thiol‐capped CdS quantum dots (CdS QDs) immobilized over the chromosomal (ct DNA) and plasmid (pUC19) DNA biorecognition layers and agarose gel electrophoresis were used (i) to detect ROS generated at the UV‐C irradiation (λ=254 nm) of CdS QDs and (ii) to assess and evaluate their effect towards the chromosomal and plasmid dsDNA structure. Voltammetric and impedimetric measurements revealed a deep degradation of DNA attached to the glassy carbon electrode surface with a stepwise decrease of the portion of survived pUC19 and ct DNA after 60 s to 2400 s irradiation time up to 47 % and to 32 %, resp., comparing to the portion in the absence of CdS QDs reaching 58 % and 40 %, resp. Agarose gel electrophoresis supported the damage to plasmid and chromosomal DNA demonstrating double strand breaks. A decrease in the stability of DNA types towards degradation by ROS in order pUC19>calf thymus>salmon sperm dsDNA has been found.
Ionophore‐based Heterogeneous Calcium Optical Titration
Authors: Zhai Jingying , Zhu Changyou , Peng Xinlei , Xie Xiaojiang
Published: December 2017

Recently, the field of complexometric titration significantly progressed with the advent of ionophore‐based titration reagents. We present here for the first time an ionophore‐based heterogeneous optical titration method for calcium. The all‐in‐one reagent was composed of chromoionophore, ion‐exchanger and calcium ionophore in dichloromethane (DCM). The endpoint of this reverse titration scheme was determined by the color change of the DCM phase (blue to red). The ion‐exchange theory borrowed from ISE membranes was used to simulate the titration curve in a simplified manner. The phase separation speed during titration was found much faster at and beyond the endpoint. A mechanism was proposed for this phenomenon, with zeta‐potential measurements on ion‐selective nanospheres to support the hypothesis. Calcium titration in a urine sample was also successfully demonstrated and compared with EDTA titration with potentiometric ion‐selective electrodes as endpoint indicator. The proposed reagent serves as an alternative to the classical EDTA.
Energy Harvesting using a Lead Zirconate Titanate (PZT) Thin Film on a Polymer Substrate
Authors: Dufay Thibault , Guiffard Benoit , Seveno Raynald , Thomas Jean‐Christophe
Published: December 2017

A composite structure with an highly flexible polymer substrate and a thin film of lead zirconate titanate, Pb(Zr,Ti)O3 (PZT), is realized using an all‐chemical process. The fabrication of the structure comprises three steps: first, PZT is deposited on an aluminum thin foil, then the PZT thin film is bonded to a polymer, and, finally, aluminum foil is removed by selective chemical etching. Structural characterization techniques are used to ensure the quality of the PZT/polymer composite structure. Electrical measurements are also performed to confirm the ferroelectric characteristics of the composite. Finally, energy harvesting measurements are realized with interdigitated electrodes structure. A maximal energy density of 20 μJ cm−2 is obtained with manual mechanical excitation and an output voltage up to 35 V under free oscillations conditions in bending mode. This demonstrates that the recently developed PZT/polymer thin films are very promising for low‐frequency vibrating energy‐harvesting applications.
The relationships between brain structural changes and perceived loneliness in older adults suffering from late‐life depression
Authors: Sin Emily L.L. , Liu Ho‐Ling , Lee Shwu‐Hua , Huang Chih‐Mao , Wai Yau‐Yau , Chen Yao‐Liang , Chan Chetwyn C.H. , Lin Chemin , Lee Tatia M.C.
Published: December 2017

Objective

Late‐life depression is a significant health risk factor for older adults, part of which is perceived loneliness. In this voxel‐based morphometry study, we examined the relationships between perceived loneliness and depression recurrence.

Methods

Fifty‐two older adults were recruited, and they were split into 3 groups: single episode, multiple episodes, or normal control groups, according to their clinical histories.

Results

This result suggests the level of functioning regarding the reward system may be negatively related to the number of depressive episodes. Taken together, the findings of this study offer important insight into the neural underpinnings of the course and chronicity of late‐life depression.