bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Performance improvement for epitaxially grown SiGe on Si solar cell by optimizing the back surface field
Authors: Li Dun , Zhao Xin , Wang Li , Conrad Brianna , Soeriyadi Anastasia , Lochtefeld Anthony , Gerger Andrew , Barnett Allen , Perez‐Wurfl Ivan
Published: September 2016

This letter reports on the performance improvement of an epitaxially grown SiGe on Si solar cell by optimizing the back surface field (BSF). First, a Si0.18Ge0.82 on silicon (Si) solar cell was fabricated with a 0.25 μm BSF layer. A 25 mV open‐circuit voltage (VOC) improvement was observed on this BSF solar cell compared with the reference solar cell without BSF layer. Then, a Si0.18Ge0.82 on Si solar cell with double BSF layers was designed and fabricated. The measured efficiency of this solar cell is 3.4% when filtered by a GaAs0.79P0.21 top cell. To the best of the authors' knowledge, the 3.4% efficiency reported here is the highest efficiency for SiGe on Si solar cells when filtered by a GaAs0.79P0.21 top cell. The previous best reported efficiency for high Ge composition SiGe on Si solar cell was only 1.7% when filtered by a GaAs0.79P0.21 top cell.
Multiplexed azido‐group isotopic capture (MAGIC) beads: Selective analysis of azido compounds using a propargyl‐based cleavable linker, a proof of concept
Authors: McLellan Michelle , Doyle Michael G. J. , Bodnar Edward D. , Lopez Paul G. , Domalaon Ronald , Roy Rini , Cordova Katherine , Schweizer Frank , Perreault Hélène
Published: September 2016

Rationale

A cleavable linker is designed and synthesized for the selective capture of azide‐containing compounds. This article presents a proof of concept methodology involving the use of peptide‐functionalized aminopropyl silica, on which the peptide is constructed by solid‐phase peptide synthesis.

Methods

The peptide linker has L‐propargylglycine (Pra) at one terminal end to allow the conjugation of azide‐containing molecules by copper assisted azide alkyne cycloaddition, also known as click reaction. L‐Arginine (Arg) is placed just before Pra to permit the release of the captured product by tryptic cleavage. Three glycine (Gly) residues, as part of the linker, are appended to the silica bead to present a spacer section that allows efficient tryptic cleavage devoid of steric hindrance imposed by the bulky bead. The bead composition is Si‐O‐propyl‐NH‐Gly‐Gly‐Gly‐Arg‐Pra.

Results

This solid‐phase material can be used to capture and release azide‐functionalized compounds. The beads are first tested on three azido compounds, 2‐azido‐2‐deoxyglucose (ADG), BOC‐p‐azido‐Phe‐OH (BAzPhe), where BOC = tert‐butoxycarbonyl, and tetraacetylated‐N‐azidomannosamine (Ac4ManNAz). Copper‐mediated click reaction conditions are used and released products are characterized by matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (MALDI‐TOF‐MS) and tandem MS (MS/MS).

Conclusions

This method allows easy identification of captured compounds based on mass and fragmentation analysis. Moreover, it is useful for the analysis of small azide‐containing compounds by MALDI‐TOF‐MS which may not be possible otherwise due to matrix interferences. The insertion of isotopically labeled Arg residues provides the possibility of multiplex analysis, from which the beads have been called MAGIC (for Multiplexed Azido‐Group Isotopic Capture). Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Safety margins in robotic bone milling: from registration uncertainty to statistically safe surgeries
Authors: Siebold Michael A. , Dillon Neal P. , Fichera Loris , Labadie Robert F. , Webster Robert J. , Fitzpatrick J. Michael
Published: September 2016

Background

When robots mill bone near critical structures, safety margins are used to reduce the risk of accidental damage due to inaccurate registration. These margins are typically set heuristically with uniform thickness, which does not reflect the anisotropy and spatial variance of registration error.

Methods

A method is described to generate spatially varying safety margins around vital anatomy using statistical models of registration uncertainty. Numerical simulations are used to determine the margin geometry that matches a safety threshold specified by the surgeon.

Results

The algorithm was applied to CT scans of five temporal bones in the context of mastoidectomy, a common bone milling procedure in ear surgery that must approach vital nerves. Safety margins were generated that satisfied the specified safety levels in every case.

Conclusions

Patient safety in image‐guided surgery can be increased by incorporating statistical models of registration uncertainty in the generation of safety margins around vital anatomy.
Dynamic Hash key‐based stream cipher for secure transmission of real time ECG signal
Authors: Pandian K. K. Soundra , Ray Kailash Chandra
Published: September 2016

In the last few decades, patients demand the data integrity and confidentiality of their Electrocardiography (ECG) signal for remote diagnosis through the network. In this context, a Dynamic Hash key‐based stream cipher for a cryptosystem is proposed to transmit the ECG signal to maintain integrity and confidentiality. The novelty of this proposed methodology is based on real‐time dynamic non‐recursive pseudorandom keystream using dynamic Toeplitz hash value‐based RC4 algorithm, unlike the existing static key‐based stream ciphers. The Toeplitz hash value (HV) is constructed from the sequence generated using non‐singular sequence folding‐based nonlinear feedback function expressed in algebraic normal form. The proposed design is realized using Verilog hardware description language (HDL) to construct the non‐recursive dynamic key stream sequence and prototyped on existing hardware Field‐programmable gate array (FPGA) device Virtex 5 xc5vlx110t‐2ff1136. The generated dynamic binary key stream sequence is analysed for key size, correlation and further verified by randomness tests using National Institute of Standards and Technology statistical test suites. The laboratory experiment is carried out with the existing two FPGA boards to prototype the proposed hardware cryptosystem for the encryption and decryption of real time ECG signal. The implementation result in the FPGA device accomplishes with the initial latency of 257 clock cycles and improved data throughput of 534Mbps than the existing design. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Adaptive capacity to technological change: A microfoundational approach
Authors: Aggarwal Vikas A. , Posen Hart E. , Workiewicz Maciej
Published: September 2016

Research summary>:We take a microfoundational approach to understanding the origin of heterogeneity in firms' capacity to adapt to technological change. We develop a computational model of individual‐level learning in an organizational setting characterized by interdependence and ambiguity. The model leads to organizational outcomes with the canonical properties of routines: constancy, efficacy, and organizational memory. At the same time, the process generating these outcomes also produces heterogeneity in firms' adaptive capacity to different types of technological change. An implication is that exploration policy in the formative period of routine development can influence a firm's capacity to adapt to change in maturity. This points to a host of strategic trade‐offs, not only between performance and adaptive capacity, but also between adaptive capacities to different forms of change.

Managerial summary:Why are firms differentially effective at adapting to technological change? We argue that firms differ in the adaptive capacity of the routines that underlie their capabilities. These differences arise well before change occurs, and result because firms build routines that are differentially responsive to signals of performance decline associated with technological change. Thus, early managerial efforts to build superior productive efficiency must be complemented by efforts to build superior adaptive capacity. Our theory suggests that managers can prepare for technological change by implementing policies, in the formative period of organizational development, that promote individuals' exploration of novel actions. However, there are trade‐offs because preparation aimed at building adaptive capacity to one type of technological change may limit adaptive capacity to other types of change. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Using spatial, economic, and ecological opinion data to inform gray wolf conservation
Authors: Berry Meredith S. , Nickerson Norma P. , Metcalf Elizabeth Covelli
Published: September 2016

Public opinion can be an influential factor in wildlife management decisions. Evaluating public opinions can help legitimize, or delegitimize, management and facilitate long‐term conservation goals. This is especially true for the controversial issues surrounding the management of predators. We surveyed Montana, USA, residents during summer of 2013 to measure public opinion regarding economic and ecological impacts of the gray wolf (Canis lupus), and current management of this species. Although opinions were polarized in some areas, a greater percentage of Montanans think that wolves negatively affect the economy, but impact tourism (which contributes to the economy) positively. These differences may reflect the belief that rancher economic losses from wolf predation of cattle is greater than overall tourism gains related to wolves (e.g., wolf‐watching), in addition to the perception of wolves negatively affecting big game (e.g., elk [Cervus canadensis]). Results also show that a slightly greater percentage of Montanans feel that wolves positively rather than negatively affect the ecosystem. Regarding specific practices, more Montanans than not have a positive opinion of maintaining wolves on the landscape and also support hunting of wolves. More Montanans hold negative rather than positive opinions, however, regarding wolf trapping. This result was most evident in western Montana as assessed by a spatial distribution of opinions by county and has implications for current wolf management and nontarget species. Results of ordinal regression analyses revealed that big game hunters, males, and those who held negative opinions of the effect of wolves on the Montana ecosystem and economy were significantly more likely to support both hunting and trapping practices. Living in western Montana predicted positive opinions of hunting, but alternatively, negative opinions of trapping. These results provide an understanding of public opinion of wolf management by county as well as statistical inferences that can be useful for informing more regionally oriented management practices. © 2016 The Wildlife Society.
Assimilating surface observations in a four-dimensional variational Doppler radar data assimilation system to improve the analysis and forecast of a squall line case
Authors: Chen Xingchao , Zhao Kun , Sun Juanzhen , Zhou Bowen , Lee Wen-Chau
Published: September 2016

This paper examines how assimilating surface observations can improve the analysis and forecast ability of a fourdimensional Variational Doppler Radar Analysis System (VDRAS). Observed surface temperature and winds are assimilated together with radar radial velocity and reflectivity into a convection-permitting model using the VDRAS four-dimensional variational (4DVAR) data assimilation system. A squall-line case observed during a field campaign is selected to investigate the performance of the technique. A single observation experiment shows that assimilating surface observations can influence the analyzed fields in both the horizontal and vertical directions. The surface-based cold pool, divergence and gust front of the squall line are all strengthened through the assimilation of the single surface observation. Three experiments—assimilating radar data only, assimilating radar data with surface data blended in a mesoscale background, and assimilating both radar and surface observations with a 4DVAR cost function—are conducted to examine the impact of the surface data assimilation. Independent surface and wind profiler observations are used for verification. The result shows that the analysis and forecast are improved when surface observations are assimilated in addition to radar observations. It is also shown that the additional surface data can help improve the analysis and forecast at low levels. Surface and low-level features of the squall line—including the surface warm inflow, cold pool, gust front, and low-level wind—are much closer to the observations after assimilating the surface data in VDRAS.
Präimplantationsdiagnostik
Authors: Zühlke Christine , Hellenbroich Yorck , Fondel Sabine , Schöpper Beate , Hüning Irina , Busche Andreas , Depenbusch Marion , Schultze-Mosgau Askan , von Horn Kyra , Osterholz-Zaleski Tina , Griesinger Georg , Gillessen-Kaesbach Gabriele
Published: September 2016

Paare mit Kinderwunsch, bei denen aufgrund genetischer Veränderungen eine erhöhte Wahrscheinlichkeit für eine Fehl- oder Totgeburt oder ein erhöhtes Risiko für die Geburt eines Kindes mit einer schweren, genetisch bedingten Erkrankung besteht, dürfen in Deutschland eine Präimplantationsdiagnostik (PID) durchführen lassen. In diesem Artikel fassen wir unsere Erfahrungen aus dem PID-Zentrum Lübeck zusammen, das seit 1. März 2014 vom Gesundheitsministerium in Schleswig-Holstein zugelassen ist. Im Zeitraum zwischen März 2014 und Juni 2016 haben sich 230 Paare an das PID-Zentrum Lübeck gewandt, davon wurden 108 zur persönlichen Vorstellung eingeladen. Von den Anfragen bezogen sich ca. 30 % auf chromosomale Veränderungen, 70 % auf monogen verursachte Erkrankungen. Mehrfach wurden Untersuchungen für die Huntington-Krankheit, cystische Fibrose, spinale Muskelatrophie, Muskeldystrophie Duchenne, β‑Thalassämie, myotone Dystrophie, das fragile X‑Syndrom und die Neurofibromatosen gewünscht. Im PID-Zentrum haben sich 71 der 108 Paare informieren und beraten lassen, 28 davon haben einen Antrag an die PID-Kommission Nord gestellt. Von den 28 Anträgen an die PID-Kommission handelte es sich in 14 Fällen um Translokationen, in 14 Fällen um monogene Ursachen. Es wurden 27 Fälle durch die PID-Kommission Nord zustimmend beurteilt, einer wurde abgelehnt. Im o. g. Zeitraum wurden für elf Paare PID-Zyklen durchgeführt: sieben für Translokationen (durch Array-CGH), vier für monogen verursachte Erkrankungen (Mutationsnachweis einschließlich gekoppelter polymorpher Marker).
Early Eocene Calcareous Algae and Benthic Foraminifera from Meghalaya, NE India: A New Record of Microfacies and Palaeoenvironment
Authors: Sarkar Suman
Published: September 2016

Early Eocene carbonate sediments of the Umlatdoh Limestone (Meghalaya, N-E India) represent a shallow marine shelf environment. The major biotic components characterizing these carbonates are calcareous green algae and small to larger benthic foraminifera. Based on the biogenic associations and general sedimentological features, five major facies types (MFTs) are distinguished. They are dominated by poor to moderately sorted grainstones followed by packstones, rudstones and wackestones. Considerable abundance of Halimeda, scarcity of z-corals and poor to moderate occurrence of filter-feeding organisms imply mesotrophic to a slightly oligotrophic nutrient regime. Rare occurrence of geniculate coralline algae is probably due to the lack of suitable substrate and environmental conditions. High incidence of grainstones and packstones, fairly preserved microfossils and few reworked specimens indicate a parautochthonous mode of deposition. Preponderance of Alveolina and Nummulites indicate the possible advent of larger foraminiferal turnover (LFT) in the east Tethys during or even before early Eocene. A conceptual palaeoenvironmental model for the studied succession is provided to showcase various facies gradients, bathymetry levels and shelf zones pertinent to the Umlatdoh Limestone.
Chief human resources officers on top management teams: an empirical analysis of contingency, institutional, and homophily antecedents
Authors: Abt Magdalena , Knyphausen-Aufseß Dodo zu
Published: September 2016

Having the director of human resources (HR) as a member of the top management team (TMT) and giving him/her the title of chief human resources officer (CHRO) indicates an important strategic and symbolic choice. Such decisions not only determine who participates in controlling an organization and setting its strategic direction, but also reflect the organizational structure. In this paper, we examine the antecedents of CHRO presence according to the contingency, institutional, and homophily theories. Based on a multi-industry sample of 215 firms that considers a 10-year period, we find that the presence of a CHRO is influenced by the rates of unionization, rapid declines or increases in numbers of employees, the employment of a new or outsider chief executive officer (CEO), and the institutionalization of the CHRO position in the industry or firm. However, we find no evidence of the presumed influence of knowledge intensity or the CEO or TMT human resource management (HRM) experience. Overall, we find that the institutional theory has the highest explanatory power regarding the existence of CHRO positions.
Evaluating the Functionality and Usability of Two Novel Wheelchair Anti‐Rollback Devices for Ramp Ascent in Manual Wheelchair Users With Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Deems‐Dluhy Susan L. , Jayaraman Chandrasekaran , Green Steve , Albert Mark V. , Jayaraman Arun
Published: September 2016

Background

Difficulty ascending ramps and inclines with a manual wheelchair adversely affects the everyday mobility and overall quality of life of manual wheelchair users. Currently, various anti‐rollback devices are available to assist manual wheelchair users to ascend ramps and inclines. However, these devices have 2 main shortcomings: restriction to backward motion limiting recovery from an overturning wheelchair, which is a safety concern; and difficulty in engaging/disengaging the device while on the ramp.

Objective

To evaluate the functionality and usability of 2 novel wheelchair anti‐rollback devices developed to address these shortcomings (prototypes “Wheel” and “Brake”).

Design

Cross‐sectional.

Setting

Rehabilitation research facility.

Participants

Twelve adult participants with chronic spinal cord injury.

Methods

Participants completed training and tested with both the wheelchair anti‐rollback devices on a 7.3‐m‐long ramp.

Main Outcome Measurements

Number of stops, perceived physical exertion, pain, and ease of use of these devices as participants maneuvered their wheelchairs up a 7.3‐m ramp were assessed. Participants also evaluated their satisfaction with the usability of both the devices using the Quebec User Evaluation of Satisfaction With Assistive Technology (QUEST 2.0).

Results

Both prototypes evaluated overcame the limitations of the existing anti‐rollback devices. Nonparametric statistical tests showed that participants rated both prototypes similarly for the overall functional and usability aspects. However, the participants' satisfactory rating were higher for the prototype “Brake” than for the prototype “Wheel” based on a functional aspect (ie, engaging/disengaging easiness), and higher for Wheel than for Brake, based on a usability aspect (prototype size).

Conclusions

The qualitative and quantitative outcomes of this investigation, based on the usability and functional evaluations, provided useful information for the improvement in the design of both anti‐rollback devices, which may allow manual wheelchair users to manage ramp ascent more safely and easily. Further evaluations with a different SCI population is recommended.

Level of Evidence

IV
Activity Limitation Stages Are Associated With Risk of Hospitalization Among Medicare Beneficiaries
Authors: Na Ling , Pan Qiang , Xie Dawei , Kurichi Jibby E. , Streim Joel E. , Bogner Hillary R. , Saliba Debra , Hennessy Sean
Published: September 2016

Background

Activity limitation stages based on activities of daily living (ADLs) and instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs) are associated with 3‐year mortality in elderly Medicare beneficiaries, yet their associations with hospitalization risk in this population have not been studied.

Objective

To examine the independent association of activity limitation stages with risk of hospitalization within a year among Medicare beneficiaries aged 65 years and older.

Design

Cohort study.

Setting

Community.

Participants

A total of 9447 community‐dwelling elderly Medicare beneficiaries from the Medicare Current Beneficiary Survey for years 2005‐2009.

Methods

Stages were derived for ADLs and IADLs separately. Associations of stages with time to first hospitalization and time to recurrent hospitalizations within a year were assessed with Cox proportional hazards models, with which we accounted for baseline sociodemographics, smoking status, comorbidities, and the year of survey entry.

Main Outcomes

Time to first hospitalization and time to recurrent hospitalizations within 1 year.

Principle Findings

The adjusted risk of first hospitalization increased with greater activity limitation stages (except stage III). The hazard ratios (95% confidence intervals) for ADL stages I‐IV compared with stage 0 (no limitations) were 1.49 (1.36‐1.63), 1.61 (1.44‐1.80), 1.54 (1.35‐1.76), and 2.06 (1.61‐2.63), respectively. The pattern for IADL stages was similar. For recurrent hospitalizations, activity limitation stages were associated with the risk of the first hospitalization but not with subsequent hospitalizations.

Conclusion

Activity limitation stages are associated with the risk of first hospitalization in the subsequent year among elderly Medicare beneficiaries. Stages capture clinically interpretable profiles of ADL and IADL functionality and describe preserved functions and activity limitation in an aggregated measure. Stage can inform interventions to ameliorate disability and thus reduce the risk of a subsequent hospitalization in this population.

Level of Evidence

IV
Ice loss processes in the Seal Nunataks ice shelf region from satellite altimetry and imagery
Authors: Shuman Christopher , Scambos Ted , Berthier Etienne
Published: September 2016

The Seal Nunataks ice shelf (SNIS, ~743 km2 in 2013) is an unofficial name for a remnant area between the former Larsen A and Larsen B ice shelves off the northeastern Antarctic Peninsula. Analyses using Landsat 7 ETM+ and Terra ASTER images from 2001 to 13 and ICESat altimetry from 2003 to 09 show it has retreated and thinned following the Larsen A (1995) and Larsen B (2002) disintegrations. Despite some regional cooling and more fast ice since 2008, SNIS continues to lose ice along its margins and may be losing contact with some nunataks. Detailed analysis of data from four ICESat tracks indicates that ice shelf thinning rates range between 1.9 and 2.7 m a−1, and generally increase from west to east. An ICESat repeat track crossing the adjacent Robertson Island shows a mean elevation loss of 1.8 m a−1. Two tracks crossing the SNIS's remaining tributary, Rogosh Glacier, show sub-meter elevation losses. Comparing shelf remnant and grounded ice thinning rates implies that basal ocean melting augments SNIS thinning by ~1 m a−1, a rate that is consistent with other estimates of ocean-driven shelf thinning in the region.
Movement Disorders Associated With Hemochromatosis
Authors: Kumar Niraj , Rizek Philippe , Sadikovic Bekim , Adams Paul C. , Jog Mandar
Published: September 2016

Background:Hereditary hemochromatosis (HH) is a genetic disorder causing pathological iron deposition and functional impairment of various organs, predominantly the liver. We assessed patients with HH for the presence of movement disorders.Methods:We reviewed the charts of 616 patients with HH who attended hemochromatosis clinic at London Health Sciences Centre, London, ON, Canada, from 1988 to 2015.Results:We found three HH patients with movement disorders, without any other major systemic manifestation. One had parkinsonism, another had chorea, and the third had tremor. All three patients had evidence of iron deposition in the brain, affecting the basal ganglia in the first two, and the dentate nucleus, red nucleus, and substantia nigra in the third patient. In addition to the C282Y homozygous mutation in theHFEgene, two of our patients had non-HFEgene mutations.Conclusion:HH should be considered in the differential diagnosis of movement disorders with pathological brain iron deposition. We report for the first time chorea in a patient with HH. Non-HFEgene mutations may predispose HH patients to iron deposition in the brain.
Open-Label Study of Sleep Disturbances in Patients with Parkinson’s Disease Treated with Rasagiline
Authors: Panisset Michel , Stril Jean-Louis , Bélanger Manon , Lehoux Geneviève , Coffin Donna , Chouinard Sylvain
Published: September 2016

Background: The prevalence of sleep disturbances among patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD) is estimated to occur in 37% to 98% of patients. Sleep disturbances have been associated with a reduced quality of life for patients with PD. The objective of this study was to assess the impact of rasagiline treatment on the severity of sleep disturbances among patients with idiopathic PD. Methods: In this open-label, multicentre study, 110 adult patients with idiopathic PD were treated with rasagiline either as monotherapy or as adjunct therapy. The primary endpoint was the change in severity of sleep disturbances, assessed with the PD Sleep Scale from baseline to month 2. Exploratory endpoints included change in daytime sleepiness, assessed with the Epworth Sleep Scale, treatment satisfaction measured with the Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire for Medication, patient’s overall improvement or deterioration over time measured with the Clinical Global Impression of Improvement, tolerability, and safety. Findings: Patients treated with rasagiline as mono- or adjunct therapy showed a statistically significant improvement in sleep quality after 2 months. There was no change in daytime sleepiness. Overall, patients were satisfied with rasagiline treatment with a mean Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire for Medication [standard deviation] total score at month 2 of 68% [16.1]. At the end of study, 64 patients (65.9%) were judged, by the investigator, as being at least minimally improved from baseline on the Clinical Global Impression of Improvement. Rasagiline was safe and well-tolerated. Interpretation: Rasagiline as mono- or adjunct-therapy may improve sleep experience in patients with PD in the short term.
Short-pulse laser-driven x-ray radiography
Authors: Brambrink E. , Baton S. , Koenig M. , Yurchak R. , Bidaut N. , Albertazzi B. , Cross J. E. , Gregori G. , Rigby A. , Falize E. , Pelka A. , Kroll F. , Pikuz S. , Sakawa Y. , Ozaki N. , Kuranz C. , Manuel M. , Li C. , Tzeferacos P. , Lamb D.
Published: September 2016

We have developed a new radiography setup with a short-pulse laser-driven x-ray source. Using a radiography axis perpendicular to both long- and short-pulse lasers allowed optimizing the incident angle of the short-pulse laser on the x-ray source target. The setup has been tested with various x-ray source target materials and different laser wavelengths. Signal to noise ratios are presented as well as achieved spatial resolutions. The high quality of our technique is illustrated on a plasma flow radiograph obtained during a laboratory astrophysics experiment on POLARs.
Rapid Access Ice Drill: a new tool for exploration of the deep Antarctic ice sheets and subglacial geology
Authors: GOODGE JOHN W. , SEVERINGHAUS JEFFREY P.
Published: September 2016

A new Rapid Access Ice Drill (RAID) will penetrate the Antarctic ice sheets in order to create borehole observatories and take cores in deep ice, the glacial bed and bedrock below. RAID is a mobile drilling system to make multiple long, narrow boreholes in a single field season in Antarctica. RAID is based on a mineral exploration-type rotary rock-coring system using threaded drill pipe to cut through ice using reverse circulation of a non-freezing fluid for pressure-compensation, maintenance of temperature and removal of ice cuttings. Near the bottom of the ice sheet, a wireline latching assembly will enable rapid coring of ice, the glacial bed and bedrock below. Once complete, boreholes will be kept open with fluid, capped and available for future down-hole measurement of temperature gradient, heat flow, ice chronology and ice deformation. RAID is designed to penetrate up to 3300 m of ice and take cores in <200 hours, allowing completion of a borehole and coring in ~10 d at each site. Together, the rapid drilling capability and mobility of the system, along with ice-penetrating imaging methods, will provide a unique 3-D picture of interior and subglacial features of the Antarctic ice sheets.
Impact of spatial averaging on radar reflectivity at internal snowpack layer boundaries
Authors: RUTTER N. , MARSHALL H.-P. , TAPE K. , ESSERY R. , KING J.
Published: September 2016

Microwave radar amplitude within a snowpack can be strongly influenced by spatial variability of internal layer boundaries. We quantify the impact of spatial averaging of snow stratigraphy and physical snowpack properties on surface scattering from near-nadir frequency-modulated continuous-wave radar at 12–18 GHz. Relative permittivity, density, grain size and stratigraphic boundaries were measured in-situ at high resolution along the length of a 9 m snow trench. An optimal range of horizontal averaging (4–6 m) was identified to attribute variations in surface scattering at layer boundaries to dielectric contrasts estimated from centimetre-scale measurements of snowpack stratigraphy and bulk layer properties. Single vertical profiles of snowpack properties seldom captured the complex local variability influencing near-nadir radar surface scattering. We discuss implications of scaling in-situ measurements for snow radiative transfer modelling and evaluation of airborne microwave remote sensing of snow.
Q&A with Leaders and Practitioners: Christine Chen of APIAVote
Authors: Ramakrishnan S. Karthick
Published: September 2016

Our understanding of the politics of race, indigeneity, and ethnicity is informed not only by the work of scholars, but also by the work of leaders and practitioners, many of whom are pioneers in their respective fields. The Journal of Race, Ethnicity, and Politics (JREP) is proud to continue our Q&A series with Christine Chen, executive director of Asian and Pacific Islander American Vote (APIAVote). Our hope is that forums like these will help advance our collective scholarship by better informing our research agendas, validating some of our claims, and building more bridges between the worlds of research, politics, and policy.
The effect of winter length on survival and duration of dormancy of four sympatric species ofRhagoletisexploiting plants with different fruiting phenology
Authors: Rull J. , Tadeo E. , Lasa R. , Aluja M.
Published: September 2016

Dormancy has been thoroughly studied for several species of economic importance in the genusRhagoletisin temperate areas of North America and Europe. Much less is known on life history regulation for species inhabiting high-elevation areas in the subtropics at the southern extreme of their geographical range. Host plant phenology has been found to play a key role in generating allochronic isolation among sibling species and host races ofRhagoletisin the course of sympatric speciation, and has important implications for pest management. We compare the effect of winter length on survival to adult eclosion and dormancy duration among four species ofRhagoletis(three of them sympatric) exploiting hosts with different fruiting phenology in subtropical isolated highlands. Survival and duration of dormancy was found to be different among the four species. At 24°C, a very small proportion (<1%) ofR. pomonella, R. turpiniaeandR. zoquicompleted development without becoming dormant, while in the case ofR. solanophagathe majority of the population emerged after development within 40 days of pupation. Also, a large proportion of braconid parasitoids infestingRhagoletiseggs and larvae emerged as adults without becoming dormant. Greatest survival after artificial winter was obtained forR. pomonella(50–60%) andR. zoqui(30%) after only four weeks at 5°C (a third of the time reported for studies on northernR. pomonella), whileR. turpiniae,under identical environmental conditions experienced low adult emergence, and highest survival (11%) was recorded for flies exposed to 5°C during 10 and 12 weeks. ForR. pomonella, there was a strong positive relationship between winter length and time to post-winter adult eclosion that was not observed forR. zoqui.In sum, forR. pomonella, mild winters in highland subtropical areas appear to select for flies better able to withstand longer periods of warm temperature before winter than flies exploiting late fruiting hosts and inhabiting northern latitudes. In the case ofR. turpiniaeandR. zoquienvironmental cues such as fluctuations in humidity and/or different temperature thresholds (5°C) may play a more important role than winter length in life history regulation. Continuous host availability forR. solanophagaappears to have selected for non-diapausing flies. From an applied perspective our results are useful for handling flies in the laboratory to conduct research and suggest that non-diapausing strains of flies and parasitoids may be selected for SIT and innundative biological control programs.
Suicide risk linked with clinical consultation frequency, psychiatric diagnoses and psychotropic medication prescribing in a national study of primary-care patients
Authors: Windfuhr K. , While D. , Kapur N. , Ashcroft D. M. , Kontopantelis E. , Carr M. J. , Shaw J. , Appleby L. , Webb R. T.
Published: September 2016

Background

Little is known about the precursors of suicide risk among primary-care patients. This study aimed to examine suicide risk in relation to patterns of clinical consultation, psychotropic drug prescribing, and psychiatric diagnoses.

Method

Nested case-control study in the Clinical Practice Research Datalink (CPRD), England. Patients aged ⩾16 years who died by suicide during 2002–2011 (N = 2384) were matched on gender, age and practice with up to 20 living control patients (N = 46 899).

Results

Risk was raised among non-consulting patients, and increased sharply with rising number of consultations in the preceding year [⩾12 consultations v. 1: unadjusted odds ratio (OR) 6.0, 95% confidence interval (CI) 4.9–7.3]. Markedly elevated risk was also associated with the prescribing of multiple psychotropic medication types (⩾5 types v. 0: OR 62.6, CI 44.3–88.4) and with having several psychiatric diagnoses (⩾4 diagnoses v. 0: OR 31.1, CI 19.3–50.1). Risk was also raised among patients living in more socially deprived localities. The confounding effect of multiple psychotropic drug types largely accounted for the rising risk gradient observed with increasing consultation frequency.

Conclusions

A greater proportion of patients with several psychiatric diagnoses, those prescribed multiple psychotropic medication types, and those who consult at very high frequency might be considered for referral to mental health services by their general practitioners. Non-consulters are also at increased risk, which suggests that conventional models of primary care may not be effective in meeting the needs of all people in the community experiencing major psychosocial difficulties.
Freeness versus maximal global Tjurina number for plane curves
Authors: DIMCA ALEXANDRU
Published: September 2016

We give a characterisation of nearly free plane curves in terms of their global Tjurina numbers, similar to the characterisation of free curves as curves with a maximal Tjurina number, given by A. A. du Plessis and C.T.C. Wall. It is also shown that an irreducible plane curve having a 1-dimensional symmetry is nearly free. A new numerical characterisation of free curves and a simple characterisation of nearly free curves in terms of their syzygies conclude this paper.
Raman spectroscopy of shocked gypsum from a meteorite impact crater
Authors: Brolly Connor , Parnell John , Bowden Stephen
Published: September 2016

Impact craters and associated hydrothermal systems are regarded as sites within which life could originate on Earth, and on Mars. The Haughton impact crater, one of the most well preserved craters on Earth, is abundant in Ca-sulphates. Selenite, a transparent form of gypsum, has been colonized by viable cyanobacteria. Basement rocks, which have been shocked, are more abundant in endolithic organisms, when compared with un-shocked basement. We infer that selenitic and shocked gypsum are more suitable for microbial colonization and have enhanced habitability. This is analogous to many Martian craters, such as Gale Crater, which has sulphate deposits in a central layered mound, thought to be formed by post-impact hydrothermal springs. In preparation for the 2020 ExoMars mission, experiments were conducted to determine whether Raman spectroscopy can distinguish between gypsum with different degrees of habitability. Ca-sulphates were analysed using Raman spectroscopy and results show no significant statistical difference between gypsum that has experienced shock by meteorite impact and gypsum, which has been dissolved and re-precipitated as an evaporitic crust. Raman spectroscopy is able to distinguish between selenite and unaltered gypsum. This shows that Raman spectroscopy can identify more habitable forms of gypsum, and demonstrates the current capabilities of Raman spectroscopy for the interpretation of gypsum habitability.
La trousse du médecin de garde: propositions
Authors: Auer Silva , Berger Jérôme , Staeger Philippe
Published: September 2016

Zusammenfassung. Hausbesuche sind eine wichtige Tätigkeit der Hausärzte. Diese Dienstleistung zugunsten der Öffentlichkeit wird unter schwierigen Bedingungen mit wenig Mitteln ausgeübt. Der Artikel beschreibt einen Notfallkoffer für Ärzte, die von einer Telefontriage profitieren und bei Bedarf auf einen professionellen Rettungsdienst zurückgreifen können. Der Inhalt des Notfallkoffers sollte den Ärzten helfen, die häufigsten Probleme bei Hausbesuchen in städtischen Gebieten und ihren Agglomerationen zu lösen.
Blut im Urin, was nun? Abklärung der nicht-sichtbaren Hämaturie bei der Frau
Authors: Scheiner David A. , Perucchini Daniele , Fink Daniel , Betschart Cornelia
Published: September 2016

Zusammenfassung. Hinter der schmerzlosen Makrohämaturie oder einer asymptomatischen Mikrohämaturie können sich urologische Erkrankungen und insbesondere Malignome verbergen. Diese sollen rechtzeitig im Frühstadium erfasst und angegangen werden. Der im Praxisalltag eingesetzte Harnstreifentest muss bei positivem Nachweis auf Hämaturie durch die mikroskopische Untersuchung des Sediments bestätigt (mind. drei Erythrozyten pro HPF [Hauptgesichtsfeld]) oder verworfen werden. Beim Nachweis von dysmorphen Erythrozyten und/oder Akanthozyten sollte eine nephrologische Abklärung erfolgen. Sind benigne Ursachen der AMH (asymptomatische Mikrohämaturie) ausgeschlossen, sollen die gründliche Diagnostik mittels Zystoskopie (ab Alter 35 Jahre) und Bildgebung der oberen und ableitenden Harnwege (idealerweise mittels Multiphasen-Computertomografie) sowie gegebenenfalls eine nephrologische Abklärung eingeleitet werden. Bei unauffälliger Diagnostik kann die Patientin nach zwei negativen jährlichen Urinanalysen aus der Nachsorge entlassen werden.
Probing the History of New Zealand's Orakei Maar
Authors: Augustinus Paul
Published: September 2016

A team of scientists drilled into the bed within a northern New Zealand explosion crater lake to gain insights into volcanic hazards and past climates.
Th17 cells are not required for maintenance of IL‐17A‐producing γδ T cells in vivo
Authors: Gupta Pawan K , Wagner Sarah R , Wu Qiang , Shilling Rebecca A
Published: September 2016

γδ T cells producing interleukin‐17A (γδT17) are thought to develop spontaneously in the thymus and to be maintained in the periphery. Previous studies suggested a role for T‐helper 17 (Th17) cells in the maintenance of γδT17 via the expression of transforming growth factor‐β1 (TGFβ1). However, we have previously found that Th17 cells were not required for expansion of γδT17 cells after lung transplant in a mouse model. Using mice deficient in signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) in CD4+ T cells, which are unable to develop Th17 cells, we investigated the requirement for Th17 cells and TGFβ1 to maintain γδT17 cells in the lung and lymphoid tissues. At steady state, we found no defect in γδT17 cells in the thymus or periphery of these mice. Further, STAT3‐deficient CD4+ T cells produced significantly higher levels of TGFβ1 than wild‐type CD4+ T cells under Th17 differentiation conditions in vitro. To determine whether STAT3‐deficient CD4+ T cells could expand γδT17 cells in vivo, we used TCRβ−/− mice, which are known to have a defect in γδT17 cells that can be rescued by Th17 cells. However, adoptive transfer of wild‐type Th17 cells or bulk CD4+ T cells did not expand γδT17 cells in TCRβ−/− mice. In contrast, interferon‐γ+ γδ T cells preferentially expanded, particularly in the lungs. Interestingly, we found in vivo and in vitro that TGFβ1 may negatively regulate the pool of γδT17 cells. Our data suggest that Th17 cells and TGFβ1 are not required for the maintenance of γδT17 cells.
Weyl magnons in breathing pyrochlore antiferromagnets
Authors: Li Fei-Ye , Li Yao-Dong , Kim Yong Baek , Balents Leon , Yu Yue , Chen Gang
Published: September 2016

Frustrated quantum magnets not only provide exotic ground states and unusual magnetic structures, but also support unconventional excitations in many cases. Using a physically relevant spin model for a breathing pyrochlore lattice, we discuss the presence of topological linear band crossings of magnons in antiferromagnets. These are the analogues of Weyl fermions in electronic systems, which we dub Weyl magnons. The bulk Weyl magnon implies the presence of chiral magnon surface states forming arcs at finite energy. We argue that such antiferromagnets present a unique example, in which Weyl points can be manipulated in situ in the laboratory by applied fields. We discuss their appearance specifically in the breathing pyrochlore lattice, and give some general discussion of conditions to find Weyl magnons, and how they may be probed experimentally. Our work may inspire a re-examination of the magnetic excitations in many magnetically ordered systems.
Palaeogeographic regulation of glacial events during the Cretaceous supergreenhouse
Authors: Ladant Jean-Baptiste , Donnadieu Yannick
Published: September 2016

The historical view of a uniformly warm Cretaceous is being increasingly challenged by the accumulation of new data hinting at the possibility of glacial events, even during the Cenomanian–Turonian (∼95 Myr ago), the warmest interval of the Cretaceous. Here we show that the palaeogeography typifying the Cenomanian–Turonian renders the Earth System resilient to glaciation with no perennial ice accumulation occurring under prescribed CO2 levels as low as 420 p.p.m. Conversely, late Aptian (∼115 Myr ago) and Maastrichtian (∼70 Myr ago) continental configurations set the stage for cooler climatic conditions, favouring possible inception of Antarctic ice sheets under CO2 concentrations, respectively, about 400 and 300 p.p.m. higher than for the Cenomanian–Turonian. Our simulations notably emphasize that palaeogeography can crucially impact global climate by modulating the CO2 threshold for ice sheet inception and make the possibility of glacial events during the Cenomanian–Turonian unlikely.
Selective targeting of IL-2 to NKG2D bearing cells for improved immunotherapy
Authors: Ghasemi Reza , Lazear Eric , Wang Xiaoli , Arefanian Saeed , Zheleznyak Alexander , Carreno Beatriz M. , Higashikubo Ryuji , Gelman Andrew E. , Kreisel Daniel , Fremont Daved H. , Krupnick Alexander Sasha
Published: September 2016

Despite over 20 years of clinical use, IL-2 has not fulfilled expectations as a safe and effective form of tumour immunotherapy. Expression of the high affinity IL-2Rα chain on regulatory T cells mitigates the anti-tumour immune response and its expression on vascular endothelium is responsible for life threatening complications such as diffuse capillary leak and pulmonary oedema. Here we describe the development of a recombinant fusion protein comprised of a cowpox virus encoded NKG2D binding protein (OMCP) and a mutated form of IL-2 with poor affinity for IL-2Rα. This fusion protein (OMCP-mutIL-2) potently and selectively activates IL-2 signalling only on NKG2D-bearing cells, such as natural killer (NK) cells, without broadly activating IL-2Rα-bearing cells. OMCP-mutIL-2 provides superior tumour control in several mouse models of malignancy and is not limited by mouse strain-specific variability of NK function. In addition, OMCP-mutIL-2 lacks the toxicity and vascular complications associated with parental wild-type IL-2.
Even–odd layer-dependent magnetotransport of high-mobility Q-valley electrons in transition metal disulfides
Authors: Wu Zefei , Xu Shuigang , Lu Huanhuan , Khamoshi Armin , Liu Gui-Bin , Han Tianyi , Wu Yingying , Lin Jiangxiazi , Long Gen , He Yuheng , Cai Yuan , Yao Yugui , Zhang Fan , Wang Ning
Published: September 2016

In few-layer transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs), the conduction bands along the ΓK directions shift downward energetically in the presence of interlayer interactions, forming six Q valleys related by threefold rotational symmetry and time reversal symmetry. In even layers, the extra inversion symmetry requires all states to be Kramers degenerate; whereas in odd layers, the intrinsic inversion asymmetry dictates the Q valleys to be spin-valley coupled. Here we report the transport characterization of prominent Shubnikov-de Hass (SdH) oscillations and the observation of the onset of quantum Hall plateaus for the Q-valley electrons in few-layer TMDCs. Universally in the SdH oscillations, we observe a valley Zeeman effect in all odd-layer TMDC devices and a spin Zeeman effect in all even-layer TMDC devices, which provide a crucial information for understanding the unique properties of multi-valley band structures of few-layer TMDCs.
Numerosity perception after size adaptation
Authors: Zimmermann Eckart , Fink Gereon R.
Published: September 2016

While some researchers propose the existence of a special numerosity sense, others challenge this view and argue that numerosity is derived from low-level features as density information. Here, we used size adaptation to manipulate the apparent area size of an object set without changing its physical density. After size adaptation, two probe patches were shown, each of which contained a specific numerosity of dots. Subjects were required to report, which probe patch contained more dots. Numerosity perception was compared between conditions where probe patches were adapted to appear smaller or larger. Size adaptation affected numerosity perception in a logarithmic fashion, increasing with the numerosity in the probe patch. No changes in density perception were found after size adaptation. Data suggest that size and density information play only a minor role in the estimation of low numerosities. In stark contrast, high numerosities strongly depend on size and density information. The data reinforce recent claims of separate mechanism for the perception of low and high numerosities.