bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Survival analysis and associated factors of highgrade glioma patients
Authors: Barrera Lina Marcela , Ortiz Leon Darío , Grisales Hugo de Jesús , Camargo Mauricio
Published: July 2024

Introduction. High-grade gliomas are the most common primary brain tumors in adults, and they usually have a quick fatal course. Average survival is 18 months, mainly, because of tumor resistance to Stupp protocol.Objective. To determine high-grade glioma patient survival and the effect of persuasion variables on survival.Materials and methods. We conducted a longitudinal descriptive study in which 80 untreated recently diagnosed high-grade glioma patients participated. A survey wasconducted regarding their exposure to some risk factors, degree of genetic instability in peripheral blood using micronucleus quantification on binuclear lymphocytes, micronuclei in reticulocytes and sister-chromatid exchanges in lymphocytes. In the statistical analysis, this study constructed life tables, used the Kaplan-Meier, and the log-rank test, and in the multivariate analysis, a Cox proportional hazards model was constructed.Results. Eighty patients’ clinical, demographic and lifestyle characteristics were analyzed, as well as their survival rates and the average survival time is 784 days (interquartile range: 928). Factors like age, exposure at work to polycyclic hydrocarbons and the number of sister-chromatid exchanges in lymphocytes in the first sampling was significantly survivalrelated in the multivariate analysis.Conclusion. We determined that only three of the analyzed variables have an important effect on survival time when it comes to high-grade glioma patients.
Especies de flebotomíneos y sus fuentes de ingesta sanguínea en un nuevo foco de leishmaniasis en Los Montes de María (Bolívar) al norte de Colombia
Authors: Cera-Vallejo Yeisson , Ardila Marlon Mauricio , Herrera Leidi , Martínez Lina , Pérez-Doria Alveiro
Published: July 2024

Introducción. En 2018, en la vereda El Alférez de Los Montes de María (Bolívar, Colombia), un macrofoco de leishmaniasis, se reportó el primer caso y se evidenciaron cambios en la distribución y ecoepidemiología de la enfermedad. No obstante, las interacciones entre vectores y fauna local aún son desconocidas.Objetivo. Evaluar la diversidad de flebotomíneos y sus fuentes de alimentación sanguínea en la comunidad de El Alférez del municipio de El Carmen de Bolívar (Bolívar, Colombia).Materiales y métodos. En el 2018, se recolectaron flebotomíneos mediante trampas de luz led ubicadas en el domicilio, el peridomicilio y en el área silvestre, y se identificaron a nivel de especie. Se utilizó la reacción en cadena de la polimerasa múltiple dirigida al gen mitocondrial citocromo B para analizar la sangre del aparato digestivo.Resultados. Lutzomyia evansi fue la especie más abundante (71,85 %; n = 485/675), seguida por Lu. panamensis, Lu. gomezi, Lu. trinidadensis, Lu. dubitans, Lu. abonnenci y Lu. aclydifera. El 25 % (n = 25/100) de las especies analizadas tuvieron como fuentes de ingesta sanguínea a Canis familiaris (36 %; n = 9/25), Ovis aries (36 %; n = 9/25), Bos taurus (24 %; n = 6/25), Sus scrofa (20 %; n = 5/25) y Homo sapiens (8 %; n = 2/25). Lutzomyia evansi fue la especie con la mayor frecuencia de alimentación (68 %; n = 17/25), predominantemente de una sola especie (44 %; n = 11/25) o de varias (24 %; n = 6/25).
Potentially inappropriate medication on communitydwelling older adults: Longitudinal analysis using the International Mobility in Aging Study
Authors: Pineda Edison , Fernández Alejandra , Curcio Carmen Lucía , Fernandes de Souza Juliana , Vafaei Afshin , Gómez José Fernando
Published: July 2024

Introduction. Medications are a fundamental part of the treatment of multiple pathologies. However, despite their benefits, some are considered potentially inappropriate medications for older people given their safety profile. Epidemiological data differences related to potentially inappropriate medications make it difficult to determine their effects on elderly people.Objective. To estimate the prevalence and types of potentially inappropriate medications using the 2019 Beers Criteria® in a cohort of adults older than 65 years.Materials and methods. We performed an observational, multicenter, retrospective, longitudinal study of a four-year follow-up of potentially inappropriate medications in community-dwelling older adults.Results. We followed 820 participants from five cities for four years (2012-2016) and evaluated them in three different moments (m1 = 2012, m2 = 2014, and m3 = 2016). The average age was 69.07 years, and 50.9% were women. The potentially inappropriate medication prevalence in the participants was 40.24%. The potentially inappropriate medications’ mean among the studied subjects in the first moment was 1.65 (SD = 0.963), in the second was 1.73 (SD = 1.032), and in the third was 1.62 (SD = 0.915). There were no statistical differences between measurements (Friedman test, value = 0.204). The most frequent potentially inappropriate medications categories were gastrointestinal (39.4%), analgesics (18.8%), delirium-related drugs (15.4%), benzodiazepines (15.2%), and cardiovascular (14.2%).Conclusions. About half of the population of the community-dwelling older adults had prescriptions of potentially inappropriate medications in a sustained manner and without significant variability over time. Mainly potentially inappropriate medications were gastrointestinal and cardiovascular drugs, analgesics, delirium-related drugs, and benzodiazepines.
Evaluación del valor clínico del reflejo nauseoso en la disfagia orofaríngea neurogénica
Authors: Suárez Juan Camilo , Illatopa Sofia , Echeverri José Luis , Zapata Santiago , Bareño José , Sánchez Jorge Luis
Published: July 2024

Introducción. El reflejo nauseoso es un mecanismo de protección que impide que alimentos y agentes no deseados penetren en la vía aérea inferior. Usualmente, hace parte del examen físico de la deglución para detectar la disfagia orofaríngea, pero es un signo potencialmente ambiguo.Objetivo. Evaluar el valor diagnóstico del reflejo nauseoso en pacientes con disfagia orofaríngea neurogénica y en pacientes sin ella.Materiales y métodos. Se trata de un estudio observacional, analítico, en pacientes con disfagia orofaríngea neurogénica (casos) y en personas sin disfagia (controles), en el cual se evaluó por visualización directa la ausencia o la presencia del reflejo nauseoso de forma bilateral. Este resultado se ajustó por sexo, edad y otras variables de interacción.Resultados. Se evaluaron 86 pacientes con disfagia orofaríngea neurogénica y 80 personas sin ella. En el examen físico de la deglución, la presencia del reflejo mostró una relación positiva con los pacientes (lado derecho: OR = 3,97; IC95%: 2,01-7,84; lado izquierdo: OR = 4,84; IC95%: 2,41-9,72), pero una asociación negativa con los controles. En ambos grupos, ni el sexo ni la edad, ni otras variables de interacción modificaron el reflejo nauseoso. Conclusiones. La ausencia o la presencia del reflejo nauseoso no confirma ni excluye la existencia de una disfagia orofaríngea por causas neurológicas o neuromusculares; por lo tanto, no es recomendable que los profesionales de la salud se fíen del resultado de este reflejo. Los médicos tratantes deben ir más allá de una simple revisión del reflejo nauseoso, incluso en pacientes neurológicos en quienes se supone que debería estar ausente.
Relación entre la calidad del aire y el asma en habitantes de grandes altitudes, La Paz, Bolivia (3.600 m.s.n.m.)
Authors: Huanca-Laura Lizeth , Aparicio Marilyn , Jemio Demetrio , Hurtado Mariana , Huanca Mayra , Chuquimia Alexis
Published: July 2024

Introducción. El asma es una enfermedad crónica que afecta a millones de personas en todo el mundo. La calidad del aire es uno de los factores clave que puede desencadenar los síntomas del asma.Objetivo. Analizar la calidad del aire y su relación con el asma en habitantes de grandes altitudes en La Paz (Bolivia).Materiales y métodos. Se desarrolló un estudio analítico, descriptivo y retrospectivo. Se recolectaron datos de pacientes con diagnóstico de asma en el Instituto Nacional del Tórax y en el Instituto Boliviano de Biología de Altura. Además, se monitoreó la calidad del aire y su material particulado en las estaciones de la “Red de monitoreo de la calidad del aire”.Resultados. El 56,9 % de los casos fueron mujeres del Instituto Nacional del Tórax y el 45,7 % del Instituto Boliviano de Biología de Altura. En ambas instituciones, la media de edad fue de 47 años y los pacientes presentaban sobrepeso u obesidad. Se registraron incrementos de material particulado fino (PM2,5) en otoño, invierno y primavera, en 2014, 2016-2019 y en las cuatro estaciones del 2015. El material particulado inhalable grueso (PM10) se incrementó en otoño e invierno del 2014 al 2020, dentro de los límites establecidos. Se observó una asociación positiva y significativa entre la concentración de material particulado PM2,5 y los parámetros espirométricos de capacidad vital forzada, flujo espiratorio máximo y el porcentaje de reversión. La relación de partículas PM10 y los parámetros espirométricos de capacidad vital forzada, volumen espiratorio máximo en el primer segundo y flujo espiratorio máximo, también fue estadísticamente significativa.Conclusión. Los casos de asma se presentaron en promedio a los 47 años y en personas con sobrepeso u obesidad. Se observó una asociación positiva entre el material particulado, PM2,5 y PM10, con los parámetros espirométricos, la cual fue más marcada con las partículas PM2,5.
Salud auditiva y exposición a ruido ambiental en población de 18 a 64 años de Bogotá, Colombia, entre el 2014 y el 2018
Authors: Sierra Jenny Andrea , Montaña Leyder Mónica , Rugeles Karla Yohanna , Sandoval María Teresa , Sandoval Wilson , Delgado Karem Johanna , Abella Jhon Jairo
Published: July 2024

Introducción. La salud auditiva es un tema de interés en salud pública que afecta la calidad de vida y que puede afectarse por la exposición continua al ruido, un factor de riesgo que genera síntomas auditivos y extraauditivos.Objetivo. Identificar el estado de salud auditiva de adultos que viven en Bogotá, y su asociación con factores de exposición a ruido ambiental, individuales y otológicos.Materiales y métodos. Se realizó un estudio transversal mediante el análisis de una base de datos con 10.311 registros, obtenidos entre los años 2014 y 2018, producto de una encuesta estructurada de percepción de ruido y tamizaje auditivo. Se hizo un análisis descriptivo bivariado y una regresión logística binaria.Resultados. El 35,4 % de los participantes presentó disminución auditiva. En el componente de percepción: 13,0 % refirió no escuchar bien, 28,8 % informó síntomas extraauditivos, 53,3 % tenía antecedentes otológicos, y 69,0 % manifestó molestia por ruido extramural. En la regresión logística, las variables más asociadas con disminución auditiva fueron: de las ambientales, vivir en zonas de mayor ruido (OR = 1,50) (IC95%: 1,34-1,69); de las individuales, ser hombre (OR = 1,85) (IC95%: 1,64-2,09) y la edad (por cada año de vida, el riesgo de disminución auditiva aumentó 6 %); y de las otológicas, tener antecedente de síntomas otológicos (OR = 1,86) (IC95%: 1,66-2,08).Conclusiones. La disminución auditiva es multicausal en la población evaluada. Los factores que aumentan su prevalencia son incremento de la edad, ser hombre, tabaquismo, medicamentos ototóxicos, vivir en zonas de mayor exposición a ruido y presentar síntomas extraauditivos.
Wireless sensor localization based on distance optimization and assistance by mobile anchor nodes: a novel algorithm
Authors: Yang Hui
Published: July 2024

Wireless sensor networks (WSNs) have wide applications in healthcare, environmental monitoring, and target tracking, relying on sensor nodes that are joined cooperatively. The research investigates localization algorithms for both target and node in WSNs to enhance accuracy. An innovative localization algorithm characterized as an asynchronous time-of-arrival (TOA) target is proposed by implementing a differential evolution algorithm. Unlike available approaches, the proposed algorithm employs the least squares criterion to represent signal-sending time as a function of the target position. The target node’s coordinates are estimated by utilizing a differential evolution algorithm with reverse learning and adaptive redirection. A hybrid received signal strength (RSS)-TOA target localization algorithm is introduced, addressing the challenge of unknown transmission parameters. This algorithm simultaneously estimates transmitted power, path loss index, and target position by employing the RSS and TOA measurements. These proposed algorithms improve the accuracy and efficiency of wireless sensor localization, boosting performance in various WSN applications.
A Multi-step Process Approach for Estimating Public Sector Wages. The Spanish Experience
Authors: Moreno-Mencía Patricia ,   International University of La Rioja. Group of Health Economics and Health Services Management.UC - IDIVAL, Rodríguez-Poo Juan M. , Cantarero-Prieto David ,   Universidad de Cantabria,   Group of Health Economics and Health Services Management. University of Cantabria - IDIVAL
Published: July 2024

We propose a semiparametric model including problems of sample selection and endogeneity. Concretely, we focus on studying the effect of tenure in public sector wages. Here we face two problems: Public wages are only observed for public employees and the tenure is endogenous. The chosen method allows the introduction of a nonparametric control function and relaxing usual strong assumptions. This approach is applied to a wage model for the Spanish Public Sector, using the wage structure survey of 2016.
Decentralization and Development Outcomes: What Does the Empirical Literature Really Say?
Authors: Canare Tristán ,   Ateneo de Manila University
Published: July 2024

This article critically reviews the empirical literature on decentralization and its relationship with development outcomes. The analysis suggests that revenue decentralization and fscal independence, or the ability of local governments to raise their own revenue rather than relying on transfers from the national government, are the decentralization types most positively associated with development outcomes. Expenditure decentralization has no clear trend. In terms of development outcomes, most of the studies reviewed found evidence that good governance is positively associated with decentralization; but the evidence is mixed on economic growth. Some suggestions were also made for future decentralization studies.
Integrating Biochar with Solar Drip Irrigation Technology for Smallholder Vegetable Farming in South-eastern Ghana Yields Profitable Returns
Authors: Baidoo Isaac , Sam Kingsley Odum , Diaba Mawumefa Akusika , Brown-Appiah Edward Christian , Akomea Yaa Pokuaa , Atiwoto Amy Eshun , Sarpong Daniel B. , Bolwig Simon
Published: July 2024

Ghana's agricultural sector faces significant challenges, characterized by low productivity and a heavy reliance on unpredictable rainfall and outdated farming practices, with limited use of modern agricultural inputs. This research investigates the potential profitability of integrating biochar and solar drip irrigation technologies for smallholder vegetable farming in Ghana, a country with sub-Saharan African agricultural conditions. The study employs gross margin and net farm income approaches to estimate profitability, providing a robust financial analysis of the proposed agricultural innovations. The results reveal a substantial mean gross margin of GHȼ35,021.25 and a net farm income of GHȼ48,786.50 per ha across the study area during the dry season from 2017-2020. These findings underscore the economic viability of biochar and solar drip irrigation, demonstrating significant financial benefits for smallholder farmers. The study concludes that adopting these technologies can markedly enhance agricultural productivity and profitability. It is recommended that smallholder farmers adopt biochar and solar drip irrigation to improve their farming outcomes, thereby contributing to sustainable agricultural development in the region.
Physical and Chemical Properties of Soil of Different Villages of District Solan, Himachal Pradesh, India
Authors: Sayal Himanshu , Bharose Ram , Tripathi Mudit
Published: July 2024

The research was conducted to assess the physical and chemical properties of soils from twenty-one villages of Solan district, Himachal Pradesh within its geographical coordinates ranging from the latitude 30°44’53” to 31°22’01” N and longitude 76°36’10” to 77°15’14” E, during 2023-2024, India. The villages represent diverse landforms, including contour farming, plains, and slopes. Soil samples were collected from two depths, 0-15 and 15-30 cm, and analysed them using standard laboratory protocols. The predominant soil texture was sandy loam, bulk density ranges from 1.22 to 1.39 Mg m-3, particle density from 2.42 to 2.67 Mg m-3, and percent pore space varied between 40.50% and 46.68%, while the percent water holding capacity ranges from 37.65% to 45.53%. Soil pH ranged from 6.61 to 7.47. Electrical conductivity was measured between 0.18 and 0.34 dS m-1, indicating non-saline conditions. Organic carbon content was medium 0.30% to high 0.61%. The available nitrogen content ranged from 232.68 to 279.64 Kg ha-1, available phosphorus from 37.23 to 64.54 Kg ha-1, and available potassium from 262.14 to 365.34 Kg ha-1. These findings provide valuable insights into the soil health of the region, with implications for agricultural practices and land management.
Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence in Thyroid Cancer Screening and Diagnosis: A Comprehensive Systematic Review
Authors: Patel Rushin , Jain Akash , Patel Zalak , Yang Chieh , Patel Darshil , Patel Mrunal
Published: July 2024

This systematic review explores the role of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) technologies in the diagnosis and treatment of thyroid cancers (TC), focusing on enhancing precision, risk assessment, and tailored care. By analyzing ten studies, the review highlights how AI and ML technologies, such as deep learning (DL) and computer-aided diagnostics (CAD), improve the accuracy of ultrasound imaging, risk stratification, and the detection of high-risk nodules. Despite advancements, challenges persist in transitioning to personalized care, including uneven prognostication and diagnostic uncertainty. The review evaluates the effectiveness of AI and ML compared to conventional methods, their ability to address diverse tumor characteristics, and their strengths and limitations in prognosis prediction. Findings suggest AI's potential in improving precision and risk assessment, but limitations such as inconsistent approaches and biases highlight the need for larger datasets and standardized procedures. Moreover, the review underscores the importance of interpretability and transparency in AI models and calls for further research to validate findings in clinical settings. Despite limitations and challenges, AI's transformative potential in TC management is evident, underscoring the need for ongoing investigation and integration into clinical practice.
A turbulent, high magnetic Reynolds number experimental model of Earth's core
Authors: Zimmerman Daniel S. , Triana Santiago Andrés , Nataf Henri‐Claude , Lathrop Daniel P.
Published: May 2014

We present new experimental results from the University of Maryland Three Meter Geodynamo experiment. We drive a fully turbulent flow in water and also in sodium at magnetic Reynolds number Rm = ΔΩ(ro−ri)2/η, up to 715 (about half design maximum) in a spherical Couette apparatus geometrically similar to Earth's core. We have not yet observed a self‐generating dynamo, but we study MHD effects with an externally applied axisymmetric magnetic field. We survey a broad range of Rossby number −68 < Ro = ΔΩ/Ωo< 65 in both purely hydrodynamic water experiments and sodium experiments with weak, nearly passive applied field. We characterize angular momentum transport and substantial generation of internal toroidal magnetic field (the Ω effect) as a function of Ro and find a rich dependence of both angular momentum transport and Ω effect on Ro. Internal azimuthal field generation peaks at Ro = 6 with a gain as high as 9 with weak applied field. At this Rossby number, we also perform experiments with significant Lorentz forces by increasing the applied magnetic field. We observe a reduction of the Ω effect, a large increase in angular momentum transport, and the onset of new dynamical states. The state we reach at maximum applied field shows substantial magnetic field gain in the axial dipole moment, enhancing the applied dipole moment. This intermittent dipole enhancement must come from nonaxisymmetric flow and seems to be a geodynamo‐style feedback involving differential rotation and large‐scale drifting waves.
Roughness effects on absorption and scattering of left‐handed materials
Authors: Xu Peng , Shi Jian‐Cheng
Published: May 2014

Bistatic scattering and absorptivities from both Gaussian and exponentially correlated rough surfaces of the left‐handed materials (LHMs) are studied numerically for 2‐D geometries in a numerical Maxwell model. The multilevel UV method is employed to accelerate the matrix equation solver. Accuracy is ensured by energy conservation check. Using a set of physical surface parameters of root‐mean‐square heights and correlation lengths, numerical results are illustrated for absorptivities, bistatic scattering, and bistatic transmission of the LHMs. The numerical results show that the presence of the second opposite transmission, from lower medium to upper one for exponentially correlated LHM surfaces, dramatically reduces the absorptivities and enhances the bistatic scattering remarkably. In particular, the exponentially correlated roughness has negative effect on absorption for transverse electric (TE) case. Then all absorptivities for TE case are below that of the planar interface and decrease continuously with the increasing roughness. Due to both the Brewster angle effect and the opposite transmission across exponentially correlated interface, the absorptivities for the transverse magnetic (TM) case of the LHMs increase at first and decrease subsequently down below that of the planar interface. Both polarimetric absorptive characteristics are in completely contrary to those of the right‐handed materials (RHMs), where the absorptivities for both the TE and TM cases are monotonic increasing with the increase of roughness because of its fine‐scale surface features and the increasing effective surface areas. For Gaussian correlated LHM surfaces, however, the second opposite transmission does not exist, thus does not show any evident differences from RHMs, except for the maximum transmission in different directions and beam broadening. In addition, comparisons are also made with the second‐order small perturbation method and Kirchhoff's approximation. In contrary to RHM, the second‐order small perturbation method is no longer valid for TE case for both absorptivity and scattering from exponentially correlated LHM surfaces even for very small perturbation cases. Similar to RHM surfaces, the Kirchhoff's approximation can be only valid to the LHM surfaces with Gaussian correlation function.
The future of global water stress: An integrated assessment
Authors: Schlosser C. Adam , Strzepek Kenneth , Gao Xiang , Fant Charles , Blanc Élodie , Paltsev Sergey , Jacoby Henry , Reilly John , Gueneau Arthur
Published: May 2014

We assess the ability of global water systems, resolved at 282 assessment subregions (ASRs), to the meet water requirements under integrated projections of socioeconomic growth and climate change. We employ a water resource system (WRS) component embedded within the Massachusetts Institute of Technology Integrated Global System Model (IGSM) framework in a suite of simulations that consider a range of climate policies and regional hydroclimate changes out to 2050. For many developing nations, water demand increases due to population growth and economic activity have a much stronger effect on water stress than climate change. By 2050, economic growth and population change alone can lead to an additional 1.8 billion people living under at least moderate water stress, with 80% of these located in developing countries. Uncertain regional climate change can play a secondary role to either exacerbate or dampen the increase in water stress. The strongest climate impacts on water stress are observed in Africa, but strong impacts also occur over Europe, Southeast Asia, and North America. The combined effects of socioeconomic growth and uncertain climate change lead to a 1.0–1.3 billion increase of the world's 2050 projected population living with overly exploited water conditions—where total potential water requirements will consistently exceed surface water supply. This would imply that adaptive measures would be taken to meet these surface water shortfalls and include: water‐use efficiency, reduced and/or redirected consumption, recurrent periods of water emergencies or curtailments, groundwater depletion, additional interbasin transfers, and overdraw from flow intended to maintain environmental requirements.
Isotope and trace element insights into heterogeneity of subridge mantle
Authors: Mallick Soumen , Dick Henry J. B. , Sachi‐Kocher Afi , Salters Vincent J. M.
Published: May 2014

Geochemical data for abyssal peridotites are used to determine the relationship to mid‐ocean ridge basalts from several locations at ridge segments on the SW Indian Ridge (SWIR), the Mid‐Cayman‐Rise (MCR), and the Mid‐Atlantic Ridge (MAR). Based on chemical and petrological criteria peridotites are categorized as being either dominantly impregnated with melt or being residual after recent melting. Those that are considered impregnated with melt also have isotopic compositions similar to the basalts indicating impregnation by an aggregate MORB melt. A SWIR and MCR residual peridotite Nd‐isotopic compositions partly overlap the Nd‐isotopic compositions of the basalts but extend to more radiogenic compositions. The differences between peridotite and basalt Nd‐isotopic compositions can be explained by incorporating a low‐solidus component with enriched isotopic signature in the subridge mantle: a component that is preferentially sampled by the basalts. At the MAR, peridotites and associated basalts have overlapping Nd‐isotopic compositions, suggesting a more homogeneous MORB mantle. The combined chemistry and petrography indicates a complex history with several depletion and enrichment events. The MCR data indicate that a low‐solidus component can be a ubiquitous component of the asthenosphere. Residual abyssal peridotites from limited geographic areas also show significant chemical variations that could be associated with initial mantle heterogeneities related to events predating the ridge‐melting event. Sm‐Nd model ages for possible earlier depletion events suggest these could be as old as 2.4 Ga.
Simulation of operational typhoon rainfall nowcasting using radar reflectivity combined with meteorological data
Authors: Wei Chih‐Chiang
Published: May 2014

In this study, a practical typhoon effective rainfall nowcasting (TERN) model was developed for use in real‐time forecasting. The TERN model was derived from a data‐driven adaptive network‐based fuzzy inference system (ANFIS). The model inputs include meteorological data and radar reflectivity data. The model simulation process begins with an online typhoon warning issued by the Central Weather Bureau (CWB) of Taiwan. It is then determined whether the typhoon approaches the study area according to the typhoon track predicted by the CWB. When a typhoon hits Taiwan, various data are received from sensor instruments, including the ground precipitation data, typhoon climatological data, and radar reflectivity factor by using Weather Surveillance Radar, 1988, Doppler (WSR‐88D) products. The study site was Shihmen Catchment. A maximum of 10 typhoon events from 2000 to 2010 were collected. Regarding the model construction, the input combinations of the ground precipitations and reflectivity factors over the catchment functioned as optimal input variables. To verify the practicability of the ANFIS‐based TERN model, Typhoon Krosa, which hit Taiwan in 2007, was simulated. The results demonstrated that the proposed methodology of real‐time rainfall forecasts during typhoon warning periods yielded favorable performance levels, reliably predicting results regarding 1 h to 6 h forecasting horizons.
A new cloud and aerosol layer detection method based on micropulse lidar measurements
Authors: Zhao Chuanfeng , Wang Yuzhao , Wang Qianqian , Li Zhanqing , Wang Zhien , Liu Dong
Published: May 2014

This paper introduces a new algorithm to detect aerosols and clouds based on micropulse lidar measurements. A semidiscretization processing technique is first used to inhibit the impact of increasing noise with distance. The value distribution equalization method which reduces the magnitude of signal variations with distance is then introduced. Combined with empirical threshold values, we determine if the signal waves indicate clouds or aerosols. This method can separate clouds and aerosols with high accuracy, although differentiation between aerosols and clouds are subject to more uncertainties depending on the thresholds selected. Compared with the existing Atmospheric Radiation Measurement program lidar‐based cloud product, the new method appears more reliable and detects more clouds with high bases. The algorithm is applied to a year of observations at both the U.S. Southern Great Plains (SGP) and China Taihu sites. At the SGP site, the cloud frequency shows a clear seasonal variation with maximum values in winter and spring and shows bimodal vertical distributions with maximum occurrences at around 3–6 km and 8–12 km. The annual averaged cloud frequency is about 50%. The dominant clouds are stratiform in winter and convective in summer. By contrast, the cloud frequency at the Taihu site shows no clear seasonal variation and the maximum occurrence is at around 1 km. The annual averaged cloud frequency is about 15% higher than that at the SGP site. A seasonal analysis of cloud base occurrence frequency suggests that stratiform clouds dominate at the Taihu site.
DSM

‐

I

and

DSM

‐

II
Authors: Horwitz Allan V.
Published: May 2014

In the early 1950s the psychiatric profession produced a new classification of psychiatric disorders: the
Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders
. This manual addressed the need of community‐based clinicians to classify the various conditions that their outpatients presented. It was driven by psychodynamic assumptions that were more concerned with the underlying problems patients had than with the overt symptoms they displayed. Thus, its definitions, as well as those in its successor, the

DSM‐II

, were short, general, and infused with theory. As psychiatry became more research oriented and biologically grounded in the 1970s, the

DSM
‐I

and

DSM‐II

were no longer suitable classificatory manuals. They were replaced by the symptom‐based and theoretically neutral

DSM‐III

in 1980. This and its successors have guided psychiatric classifications until the present.
An Immobilised Grubbs 2nd Generation Catalyst for Application in Flow‐Through Devices
Authors: Gmeiner Julia , Seibicke Max , Lang Carolin , Gärtner Ute , Trapp Oliver
Published: May 2014

An improved immobilised Grubbs 2nd generation catalyst and its application in flow‐through devices, shown for on‐column reaction gas chromatography (ocRGC), has been studied. The coupling of a reaction capillary and a separation column in GC/MS allows direct reaction monitoring and analysis of conversion as well as reaction kinetics. The presented permanently bonded N‐heterocyclic carbene ligand shows a great stability and activity in ring closing metathesis reactions. A salt‐free approach was used to generate the carbene ligand, which can be directly monitored by mass spectrometry. The very flexible design of the immobilised ligand system in reaction channels and capillaries of flow through systems allows the preparation of various catalysts using a broad variety of metal precursors. This strategy of immobilised catalytically active complexes offers a wide range of on‐column reactions combinable with fast reaction screening by high throughput experimentation.

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Visible Light Photoredox Catalysis: Investigation of Distal sp3 CH Functionalization of Tertiary Amines for Alkylation Reaction
Authors: Pandey Ganesh , Jadhav Deepak , Tiwari Sandip Kumar , Singh Bhawana
Published: May 2014

Visible light‐mediated photoredox activation of 10‐methyl‐9,10‐dihydroacridine in the presence of electron‐deficient alkenes leads to selective γ‐sp3 CH alkylation whereby 4‐alkyl‐N,N‐dimethylanilines produce substituted tetrahydroquinolines by a subsequent alkylation/cyclization sequence involving interesting mechanistic pathways.

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Site Selective Synthesis of Pentaarylpyridines via Multiple Suzuki–Miyaura Cross‐Coupling Reactions
Authors: Reimann Sebastian , Ehlers Peter , Petrosyan Andranik , Kohse Stefanie , Spannenberg Anke , Surkus Annette E. , Ghochikyan Tariel V. , Saghyan Ashot S. , Lochbrunner Stefan , Kühn Oliver , Ludwig Ralf , Langer Peter
Published: May 2014

Pentaarylpyridines were conveniently prepared in one step by pentafold Suzuki–Miyaura reactions of pentachloropyridine. Moreover, site selective reactions were performed, leading to various substituted arylpyridines. Pentaarylpyridines were studied in detail by means of DFT calculations and by optical spectroscopy.

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Stable Nickel(0) Phosphites as Catalysts for CN Cross‐Coupling Reactions
Authors: Kampmann Sven S. , Sobolev Alexandre N. , Koutsantonis George A. , Stewart Scott G.
Published: May 2014

Herein we describe the design and preparation of inexpensive, air‐stable nickel phosphite‐based catalysts for use in the CN cross‐coupling reaction. The combination of nickel tetrakis(triphenyl phosphite) {Ni[P(OPh)3]4} and 1,1′‐bis(diphenylphosphino)ferrocene (dppf), and in particular a newly developed catalyst (dppf)Ni[P(OPh)3]2, were found to be extremely effective in catalyzing a range of amination reactions of anilines and amines with aryl chlorides. This new catalyst system offers an alternative to the bis(cyclooctadienyl)nickel [Ni(COD)2] and palladium(0) catalysts commonly used for CN bond formation.

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Synthesis and Characterization of New Thiophene‐Derived Polymers
Authors: Ruiz Jesica , Gonzalo Beatriz , Laza José Manuel , León Luis Manuel , Moreno María Isabel , Vilas José Luis , Bilbao Elena
Published: May 2014

Two new intrinsically conducting polythiophenes, poly‐1,4‐bis(3‐hexylthiophene)‐dibutyne (P1) and poly‐2′‐thiophene‐5‐hexyl‐2,3′‐bithiophene (P2), are synthesized to improve the processability of polythiophene. P2 exhibits alternating thiophene and alkylthiophene rings, whereas P1 is characterized by triple bonds between alkylthiophene rings. Both polymers are characterized in terms of chemical, electrical, thermal, and mechanical properties using different techniques. The electrical conductivity of both polymers was determined, their values being significantly lower than that of polythiophene. However, the processability of P1 and P2 was higher in comparison with that of polythiophene because the compression process was possible. The conductivity range makes them suitable for electronic applications.
Brain MRI abnormalities and spectrum of neurological and clinical findings in three patients with proximal 16p11.2 microduplication
Authors: Filges Isabel , Sparagana Steven , Sargent Michael , Selby Kathryn , Schlade‐Bartusiak Kamilla , Lueder Gregg T. , Robichaux‐Viehoever Amy , Schlaggar Bradley L. , Shimony Joshua S. , Shinawi Marwan
Published: May 2014

The phenotype of recurrent ∼600 kb microdeletion and microduplication on proximal 16p11.2 is characterized by a spectrum of neurodevelopmental impairments including developmental delay and intellectual disability, epilepsy, autism and psychiatric disorders which are all subject to incomplete penetrance and variable expressivity. A variety of brain MRI abnormalities were reported in patients with 16p11.2 rearrangements, but no systematic correlation has been studied among patients with similar brain anomalies, their neurodevelopmental and clinical phenotypes. We present three patients with the proximal 16p11.2 microduplication exhibiting significant developmental delay, anxiety disorder and other variable clinical features. Our patients have abnormal brain MRI findings of cerebral T2 hyperintense foci (3/3) and ventriculomegaly (2/3). The neuroradiological or neurological findings in two cases prompted an extensive diagnostic work‐up. One patient has exhibited neurological regression and progressive vision impairment and was diagnosed with juvenile neuronal ceroid‐lipofuscinosis. We compare the clinical course and phenotype of these patients in regard to the clinical significance of the cerebral lesions and the need for MRI surveillance. We conclude that in all three patients the lesions were not progressive, did not show any sign of malignant transformation and could not be correlated to specific clinical features. We discuss potential etiologic mechanisms that may include overexpression of genes within the duplicated region involved in control of cell proliferation and complex molecular mechanisms such as the MAPK/ERK pathway. Systematic studies in larger cohorts are needed to confirm our observation and to establish the prevalence and clinical significance of these neuroanatomical abnormalities in patients with 16p11.2 duplications. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Megalencephaly and hemimegalencephaly: Breakthroughs in molecular etiology
Authors: Mirzaa Ghayda M. , Poduri Annapurna
Published: May 2014

Megalencephaly (MEG) is a developmental disorder characterized by brain overgrowth that occurs due to either increased number or size of neurons and glial cells. The former may be due to either increased neuronal proliferation or decreased apoptosis. The degree of brain overgrowth may be extensive, ranging from generalized MEG affecting the entire cortex–as with mutations in PTEN (phosphatase and tensin homolog on chromosome ten)–to unilateral hemispheric malformations–as in classic hemimegalencephaly (HME). On the other hand, some lesions are more focal or segmental. These developmental brain abnormalities may occur in isolation in some individuals, whereas others occur in the context of a syndrome involving dysmorphic features, skin findings, or other organ system involvement. Brain overgrowth disorders are often associated with malformations of cortical development, resulting in increased risk of epilepsy, intellectual disability, and autistic features, and some are associated with hydrocephalus. The past few years have witnessed a dramatic leap in our understanding of the molecular basis of brain overgrowth, particularly the identification of mosaic (or post‐zygotic) mutations in core components of key cellular pathways such as the phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase (PI3K)‐vakt murine thymoma viral oncogene homolog (AKT)‐mTOR pathway. These molecular insights have broadened our view of brain overgrowth disorders that now appear to span a wide spectrum of overlapping phenotypic, neuroimaging, and neuropathologic features and molecular pathogenesis. These molecular advances also bring to light the possibility of pathway‐based therapies for these often medically devastating developmental disorders. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Synthese von Indolen durch ein modifiziertes Koser‐Reagens
Authors: Fra Laura , Millán Alba , Souto José A. , Muñiz Kilian
Published: May 2014

Eine neue Methode unter metallfreien Bedingungen zur schnellen und produktiven Synthese von Indolen wurde entwickelt. Dieser Prozess beruht auf einer voluminösen Iodverbindung der Familie der Koser‐Reagentien, wobei die Kombination aus Iodosobenzol und 2,4,5‐Tris(isopropyl)benzolsulfonsäure die höchsten Ausbeuten und kürzesten Reaktionszeiten gewährleistet. Dieses Reagens vermittelt die chemoselektive oxidative Cyclisierung von 2‐Vinylanilinen zu Indolen in hohen Ausbeuten und unter milden Reaktionsbedingungen.
Dativ oder nicht dativ?
Authors: Himmel Daniel , Krossing Ingo , Schnepf Andreas
Published: May 2014

Ist Leberwurst Schweinemarmelade? Hier reagieren die Autoren des Essays Dative Bindungen bei Hauptgruppenelementverbindungen: ein Plädoyer für weniger Pfeile auf die Kritik von Gernot Frenking und berichtigen ihren Essay in einem Punkt.
In Situ Observation of Surface Species on Iridium Oxide Nanoparticles during the Oxygen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Sanchez Casalongue Hernan G. , Ng May Ling , Kaya Sarp , Friebel Daniel , Ogasawara Hirohito , Nilsson Anders
Published: May 2014

An iridium oxide nanoparticle electrocatalyst under oxygen evolution reaction conditions was probed in situ by ambient‐pressure X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Under OER conditions, iridium undergoes a change in oxidation state from IrIV to IrV that takes place predominantly at the surface of the catalyst. The chemical change in iridium is coupled to a decrease in surface hydroxide, providing experimental evidence which strongly suggests that the oxygen evolution reaction on iridium oxide occurs through an OOH‐mediated deprotonation mechanism.
Improving Site‐Directed RNA Editing In Vitro and in Cell Culture by Chemical Modification of the GuideRNA
Authors: Vogel Paul , Schneider Marius F. , Wettengel Jacqueline , Stafforst Thorsten
Published: May 2014

Adenosine‐to‐inosine deamination can be re‐addressed to user‐defined mRNAs by applying phosphothioate/2′‐methoxy‐modified guideRNAs. Dense chemical modification of the guideRNA clearly improves performance of the covalent conjugates inside the living cell. Furthermore, careful positioning of a few modifications controls editing selectivity in vitro and was exploited for the challenging repair of the Factor 5 Leiden missense mutation.
Concurrent Stabilization of π‐Donor and π‐Acceptor Ligands in Aromatized and Dearomatized Pincer [(PNN)Re(CO)(O)2] Complexes
Authors: Mazzotta Michael G. , Pichaandi Kothanda Rama , Fanwick Phillip E. , Abu‐Omar Mahdi M.
Published: May 2014

Aromatized cationic [(PNN)Re(π acid)(O)2]+ (1) and dearomatized neutral [(PNN*)Re(π acid)(O)2] (2) complexes (where π acid=CO (a), tBuNC (b), or (2,6‐Me2)PhNC (c)), possessing both π‐donor and π‐acceptor ligands, have been synthesized and fully characterized. Reaction of [(PNN)Re(O)2]+ (4) with lithiumhexamethyldisilazide (LiHMDS) yield the dearomatized [(PNN*)Re(O)2] (3). Complexes 1 and 2 are prepared from the reaction of 4 and 3, respectively, with CO or isocyanides. Single‐crystal X‐ray structures of 1 a and 1 b show the expected trans‐dioxo structure, in which the oxo ligands occupy the axial positions and the π‐acidic ligand occupies the equatorial plane in an overall octahedral geometry about the rhenium(V) center. DFT studies revealed the stability of complexes 1 and 2 arises from a π‐backbonding interaction between the dxy orbital of rhenium, the π orbital of the oxo ligands, and the π* orbital of CO/isocyanide.
Preparation of polysiloxane oligomers bearing benzoxazine side groups and tunable properties of their thermosets
Authors: Zhu Chunli , Wei Yanze , Zhang Jing , Geng Pengfei , Lu Zaijun
Published: May 2014

A new pathway for the preparation of polysiloxane oligomers bearing benzoxazine side groups were reported via the hydrolysis and co‐polycondensation of benzoxazinyl siloxane (SBZ) with dimethyldiethoxysilane (DEDMS). The structures of SBZ and oligomers were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. The average molecular weights of the obtained oligomers were estimated from size exclusion chromatography and 1H‐NMR to be in the range of 2000–4000. The oligomers gave transparent films by casting in THF solution. The films were further thermally treated to produce crosslinked films via the ring opening polymerization of benzoxazine side group. The effects of siloxane content on polymerization behavior, glass transition temperature, and mechanical properties of the polybenzoxazine thermosets were investigated. Tensile test of the films revealed that the elongation at break increased with increasing siloxane content. The elongation at break of poly(I‐50) was up to 12.1%. Dynamic mechanical analysis of the thermosets showed that the Tgs were in the range of 119–165°C. Thermogravimetic analysis also revealed a better thermal stability as evidenced by the 5% weight loss temperatures in the range of 363–390°C. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40960.
Effect of carbon nanotube dispersion on the complex permittivity and absorption of nanocomposites in 2–18 GHz ranges
Authors: Yang Ruey‐Bin , Kuo Wen‐Shyong , Lai Heng‐Chih
Published: May 2014

The effect of dispersion processes on complex permittivity
and microwave absorption in 2−18 GHz ranges is presented for nanocomposites loaded with different amounts of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) ranging from 1 to 5 wt %. The ultrasonic sonication (US) method and the three‐roll mill (TRM) method were performed for the manufacturing of the CNT/epoxy absorbers with different dispersing levels. Microscopic observations revealed that the CNT agglomerates were reduced after the TRM process, and individual CNTs were uniformly dispersed in the epoxy resin. For the same weight content of CNT fillers, the percentage increase of
between US and TRM samples varies from 35.5% to 101.7% while the corresponding increment of
(dielectric loss) varies from 79.6% to 248.8%. A minimum reflection loss for the US sample with 2 wt % CNTs is only −7.8 dB at 11.3 GHz while the corresponding TRM sample is greatly improved to reach −37.4 dB at 7.76 GHz for the same matching thickness of 3 mm. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40963.
Effects of the loading levels of organically modified montmorillonite on the flame‐retardant properties of asphalt
Authors: Zhang Xiaojiao , Ren Fan , Zhang Liqun , Dong Dawei , Jiang Kuan , Lu Yonglai
Published: May 2014

The flame‐retardant properties of asphalt for some building applications are very important. In this study, we mainly focused on the influence of organically modified montmorillonite (OMMT) on the flame‐retardant and other properties of asphalt in a large content range and explored suitable contents of OMMT for modified asphalts. Modified asphalts with different contents of OMMT from 2 to 15 wt % were prepared by melt blending. The X‐ray diffraction results revealed that the intercalated structure was formed in the OMMT‐modified asphalt. Rubber processing analysis results indicated the formation of a filler–network structure in the OMMT‐modified asphalt. The limiting oxygen index and cone calorimetry results suggested that OMMT could be used as efficient and ideal flame retardants of asphalt. The results also reveal that excess OMMT contents (i.e., >10 wt %) depredated the flame‐retardant performance of the modified asphalt. We analyzed the mechanism by taking into account of the features of the modified agent for OMMT. The experimental data showed that the viscosity, softening point, and penetration index of the OMMT‐modified asphalt increased with increasing OMMT content, but the ductility decreased slightly when the OMMT content was not beyond 7 wt %. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 10.1002/app.40972.