bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Hourly station‐based precipitation characteristics over the Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Li Jian 
Published: September 2017

ABSTRACTBased on precipitation data collected from 100 surface stations on the Tibetan Plateau, the summer climatology of the hourly characteristics of precipitation events, including hourly frequency and intensity, frequency–intensity structure, diurnal circle, and duration, was comprehensively analysed. Both hourly frequency and intensity are high (low) over the southeastern (western and northern) plateau. In the Yurlung Zangbo River valley, which is located on the central southern plateau, the precipitation frequency is low and the intensity is high. The proportion of strong (weak) precipitation, in terms of frequency, is relatively large (small) in this valley, and similar features with respect to the frequency–intensity structure were also found for the northeastern plateau. In contrast, precipitation over the southern edge of the plateau is characterized by high frequency and low intensity, and the percentage of weak precipitation hours is higher than in other regions. Most stations over the plateau exhibit precipitation peaks either in late afternoon or around midnight. The late afternoon (midnight) peak is mainly contributed to by precipitation events that are short (long) in duration. These ‘short‐afternoon’ and long‐nighttime' types constitute the two major modes of precipitation over the plateau. Extreme events tend to begin in late afternoon, reach a maximum around midnight, and stop in the morning. The possible mechanisms are discussed. The quantity of available water vapour determines the geographical distribution of precipitation frequency through modulating the duration of precipitation events. High‐intensity events are related to well‐organized convective systems. The ratio of short‐afternoon and long‐nighttime precipitation is significantly influenced by local topography.
Molecular characterization of branched polysaccharides from Tremella fuciformis by asymmetrical flow field‐flow fractionation and size exclusion chromatography
Authors: Wu Ding‐Tao , Deng Yong , Zhao Jing , Li Shao‐Ping 
Published: September 2017

AbstractTo accurately characterize branched polysaccharides with high molecular weights from medicinal and edible mushrooms and identify the limitations of size exclusion chromatography, molecular characteristics of polysaccharides from Tremella fuciformis were determined and compared by asymmetrical flow field‐flow fractionation coupled with multiangle laser light scattering and refractive index detection, and size exclusion chromatography coupled with multiangle laser light scattering and refractive index detection, respectively. Results showed that molecular weights of three batches of T. fuciformis polysaccharides were determined as 2.167 × 106 (TF1), 2.334 × 106 (TF2), and 2.435 × 106 Da (TF3) by size exclusion chromatography, and 3.432 × 106 (TF1), 3.739 × 106 (TF2), and 3.742 × 106 Da (TF3) by asymmetrical flow field‐flow fractionation, as well as 3.469 × 106 Da (TF1) by off‐line multiangle laser light scattering, respectively. Results suggested that size exclusion chromatography was unable to accurately characterize T. fuciformis polysaccharides, which may be due to its limitations such as shear degradation and abnormal coelution. Compared to size exclusion chromatography, asymmetrical flow field‐flow fractionation could be a better technique for the molecular characterization of branched polysaccharides with high molecular weights from medicinal and edible mushrooms, as well as from other natural resources.
Elucidation of salvage laryngectomy pathologic and clinical variables to guide further treatment intensification investigation
Authors: Scharpf Joseph , Ward Matthew , Adelstein David , Koyfman Shlomo , Li Mingsi 
Published: September 2017

Objective/HypothesisThere are limited treatment options beyond surgical salvage for patients who fail nonoperative treatment for laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma. In this study, we examine the failure patterns after surgical salvage and the potential pathologic and clinical prognostic variables that might guide further postoperative intensification investigation.Study DesignRetrospective analysis at a tertiary academic referral center.MethodsFrom an institutional review board‐approved institutional head and neck cancer registry, a consecutive series of 147 patients who underwent salvage laryngectomy for squamous cell cancer recurrence or persistence after radiotherapy with or without chemotherapy between May 1995 and May 2016 were identified. Variables potentially associated with oncologic outcome after surgical salvage were then collected and retrospectively evaluated.ResultsThe projected 2‐year locoregional failure rate was 21.8% (95% confidence interval [CI], 14.6%–29.0%]), and the overall survival 65% (95% CI, 57.5%–74.3%) for the entire cohort after salvage laryngectomy. On multivariable analysis, sarcomatoid/spindle cell pathology (hazard ratio [HR], 3.147; 95% CI, 1.181–8.386; P = 0.022), lymphovascular space invasion (LVSI) (positive vs. negative; HR, 2.31; 95% CI, 1.21–4.42; P = 0.011), and advanced initial American Joint Committee on Cancer 7th Edition grouped stage (stages III–IVB vs. stages I–II; HR, 1.64; 95% CI, 1.04–2.6; P = 0.035) were found to be independently associated with inferior disease‐free survival. No other clinical or pathologic variables predicted failure.ConclusionSalvage laryngectomy after nonoperative treatment failure results in successful locoregional control rates and survival in the majority of patients failing initial therapy. This should temper enthusiasm for routine treatment intensification with postoperative re‐irradiation and/or other systemic treatments for the vast majority of patients. Sarcomatoid pathology, LVSI, and an advanced initial stage are associated with inferior disease‐free survival. The presence of these factors may warrant further investigational study of treatment intensification after salvage laryngectomy.Level of Evidence4. Laryngoscope, 128:823–830, 2018
Excised larynx evaluation of subthyroid cartilage approach to medialization thyroplasty
Authors: Thompson James D. , Hoffman Matthew R. , Scholp Austin , Devine Erin E. , Jiang Jack J. , McCulloch Timothy M. 
Published: September 2017

Objectives/HypothesisTo describe an alternative approach to medialization thyroplasty involving dissection underneath the thyroid cartilage with placement of a Gore‐Tex implant, and to evaluate its effect on a range of phonatory measures using an excised canine larynx model.Study DesignAnimal model.MethodsOn each of eight excised canine larynges, the conditions of normal, paralysis, medialization thyroplasty by standard transthyroid cartilage approach, and medialization thyroplasty by experimental subthyroid cartilage approach were performed. Aerodynamic, acoustic, and mucosal wave parameters were measured for each condition.ResultsCompared to the vocal fold paralysis state, both the transthyroid and subthyroid approaches for Gore‐Tex insertion resulted in significant decreases in phonation threshold pressure and phonation threshold flow. Both approaches also significantly decreased percent jitter, decreased percent shimmer, and improved signal‐to‐noise ratio. The mucosal wave was preserved after insertion of the Gore‐Tex implant for both approaches. For all the phonatory measures except phonation threshold flow, there were no significant differences between the transthyroid and subthyroid approaches.ConclusionsGore‐Tex implantation via a subthyroid approach in an excised canine larynx model can produce effective medialization, preserve the mucosal wave, and significantly improve aerodynamic and acoustic parameters without meaningful difference compared to a traditional transthyroid approach. The subthyroid approach does not require creation of a thyroid cartilage window and could be a potentially valuable alternative method of performing medialization thyroplasty.Level of EvidenceNA. Laryngoscope, 128:675–681, 2018
Coupling Climate Conditions, Sediment Sources and Sediment Transport in an Alpine Basin
Authors: Rainato Riccardo , Picco Lorenzo , Cavalli Marco , Mao Luca , Neverman Andrew J. , Tarolli Paolo 
Published: September 2017

AbstractIn a fluvial system, mountain basins control sediment export to the lowland rivers. Hence, analysis of erosion processes and sediment delivery patterns in mountain basins is a key factor for many applications such as land‐use management, hazard assessment and infrastructure design. Several studies have investigated the alterations triggered by recent climatic change on the hydrological regime, while only a few works have explored the consequences on fluvial sediment dynamics. Here, we combined and analyzed the quasi‐unique dataset of climatic conditions, landform response and sediment export produced, since 1986 in the Rio Cordon basin (5 km2, Eastern Italian Alps) to examine the sediment delivery processes occurring in the last 3 decades. The temperature, precipitation and fluvial sediment fluxes in the basin were analyzed using continuous measurement executed by a permanent monitoring station, while the evolution of sediment source areas was investigated using three sediment source inventories. The results showed that during the period 1986–1993 the sediment fluxes (339 Mg yr−1) reflected the stable trend of the climatic conditions. The period between the first and second source inventory (i.e. 1994–2006) was characterized by climatic fluctuations and by the occurrence of high magnitude floods. Nevertheless, a limited increase in the extent of sediment source areas was detected, suggesting that the increased sediment export (759 Mg yr−1) was mainly driven by in‐channel sediment supply. Notwithstanding the marked climate warming and the increased precipitation, a weak source area evolution and a reduction in sediment export (237 Mg yr−1) were observed during the period 2007–2015. In particular, the higher rainfall did not result in an intensification of flood events, stressing the absence of hillslope‐channel connectivity. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Estimates of oscillatory integrals with stationary phase and singular amplitude: Applications to propagation features for dispersive equations
Authors: Dewez Florent 
Published: September 2017

AbstractIn this paper, we study time‐asymptotic propagation phenomena for a class of dispersive equations on the line by exploiting precise estimates of oscillatory integrals. We propose first an extension of the van der Corput Lemma to the case of phases which may have a stationary point of real order and amplitudes allowed to have an integrable singular point. The resulting estimates provide optimal decay rates which show explicitly the influence of these two particular points. Then we apply these abstract results to solution formulas of a class of dispersive equations on the line defined by Fourier multipliers. Under the hypothesis that the Fourier transform of the initial data has a compact support or an integrable singular point, we derive uniform estimates of the solutions in space‐time cones, describing their motions when the time tends to infinity. The method permits also to show that symbols having a restricted growth at infinity may influence the dispersion of the solutions: we prove the existence of a cone, depending only on the symbol, in which the solution is time‐asymptotically localized. This corresponds to an asymptotic version of the notion of causality for initial data without compact support.
Offering non‐invasive prenatal testing as part of routine clinical service. Can high levels of informed choice be maintained?
Authors: Lewis Celine , Hill Melissa , Chitty Lyn S. 
Published: September 2017

AbstractObjectivesTo assess rates of informed choice among women offered non‐invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) for aneuploidy as part of routine clinical care.MethodsA cross‐sectional survey was conducted across 6 antenatal clinics in England. Women with a high risk (≥1/150) Down syndrome screening result were offered NIPT, invasive testing, or no further testing. Pretest counselling was delivered as part of routine care by the local maternity team. Women were given a questionnaire containing a measure of informed choice immediately after pretest counselling.ResultsIn total, 220 of 247 women completed the questionnaire. Seventy‐six percent were judged to have made an informed choice, a significant decline from our previous study (89.0% vs 75.6%; χ2(2) = 20.2, P < .001). Of those making an uninformed choice, 46% had insufficient knowledge, 19% had not deliberated, and 13% had made a value‐inconsistent decision. Multivariate analysis showed women who were highly educated (OR, 4.33; 95% CI, 1.08‐17.36) or had had screening in a previous pregnancy (OR, 0.24; 95% CI, 0.90‐0.65) were significantly more likely to make an informed choice.ConclusionsThe findings highlight the challenges of ensuring informed choice in routine prenatal care where NIPT is not discussed at multiple points, less time is available for counselling, and written consent is not required.
Core–shell type multi‐arm azide polymers based on hyperbranched copolyether as potential energetic materials in solid propellants
Authors: Zhang Guangpu , Zhang Tianfu , Li Jinqing , Luo Yunjun 
Published: September 2017

AbstractA series of novel multi‐arm azide copolymers (POGs) with the same hyperbranched poly[3‐ethyl‐3‐(hydroxymethyl)oxetane] core (PEHO‐c) and different content of linear glycidyl azide polymer shell (GAP‐s) have been synthesized by sequential cationic ring‐opening polymerization and azidation. Detailed structural information of these copolyethers was deduced from Fourier transform infrared, 1H NMR and inverse gated decoupled 13C NMR spectroscopies, matrix‐assisted laser desorption ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry, gel permeation chromatography and elemental analysis. The molecular weight of POG having GAP‐s and PEHO‐c with a molar ratio 14.95:1 (Rs/c) was around 31 000 g mol−1, far above that of linear GAP (around 4000 g mol−1). The apparent viscosity and glass transition temperature (−51 to −23 °C) decreased first and then slightly increased with increasing molecular weight. Thermal analysis revealed that all the obtained POGs exhibited excellent resistance to thermal decomposition up to 220 °C. Moreover, the energetic properties, investigated using oxygen bomb calorimetric measurements, indicated that the enthalpy of formation of the POGs was higher than that of general linear GAP, but similar to that of branched GAP under reasonable Rs/c. The compatibilities of the POGs with common materials used in solid propellants were studied using differential scanning calorimetry and the results indicated that the POGs had good compatibility with these materials. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Guidelines for using Bsoft for high resolution reconstruction and validation of biomolecular structures from electron micrographs
Authors: Heymann J. Bernard 
Published: September 2017

AbstractCryo‐electron microscopy (cryoEM) is becoming popular as a tool to solve biomolecular structures with the recent availability of direct electron detectors allowing automated acquisition of high resolution data. The Bsoft software package, developed over 20 years for analyzing electron micrographs, offers a full workflow for validated single particle analysis with extensive functionality, enabling customization for specific cases. With the increasing use of cryoEM and its automation, proper validation of the results is a bigger concern. The three major validation approaches, independent data sets, resolution‐limited processing, and coherence testing, can be incorporated into any Bsoft workflow. Here, the main workflow is divided into four phases: (i) micrograph preprocessing, (ii) particle picking, (iii) particle alignment and reconstruction, and (iv) interpretation. Each of these phases represents a conceptual unit that can be automated, followed by a check point to assess the results. The aim in the first three phases is to reconstruct one or more validated maps at the best resolution possible. Map interpretation then involves identification of components, segmentation, quantification, and modeling. The algorithms in Bsoft are well established, with future plans focused on ease of use, automation and institutionalizing validation.
Sachet water: regulation and implications for access and equity in Accra, Ghana
Authors: Morinville Cynthia 
Published: September 2017

This study explores everyday lived experiences of sachet water consumption in Accra, Ghana with a particular attention to underserved areas. The aim of this focus article is twofold: to contribute to the emerging literature on sachet water by providing an account of its consumption in a city where the commodity is most ubiquitous, and to consider key research questions as the conversation around sachet water grapples with issues of regulation. The study examines the profound impact of sachet water on the municipal waterscape of Accra and focuses on the twined notions of access and equity. This study highlights how regulating the sachet water industry remains fraught with difficulties and argues that regulating the industry must begin with a commitment to universal access and must consider water needs beyond a narrow focus on drinking water.WIREs Water2017, 4:e1244. doi: 10.1002/wat2.1244This article is categorized under:Engineering Water > Planning WaterHuman Water > Rights to WaterEngineering Water > Sustainable Engineering of Water
Identification of a novel interspecific hybrid yeast from a metagenomic spontaneously inoculated beer sample using Hi‐C
Authors: Smukowski Heil Caiti , Burton Joshua N. , Liachko Ivan , Friedrich Anne , Hanson Noah A. , Morris Cody L. , Schacherer Joseph , Shendure Jay , Thomas James H. , Dunham Maitreya J. 
Published: September 2017

AbstractInterspecific hybridization is a common mechanism enabling genetic diversification and adaptation; however, the detection of hybrid species has been quite difficult. The identification of microbial hybrids is made even more complicated, as most environmental microbes are resistant to culturing and must be studied in their native mixed communities. We have previously adapted the chromosome conformation capture method Hi‐C to the assembly of genomes from mixed populations. Here, we show the method's application in assembling genomes directly from an uncultured, mixed population from a spontaneously inoculated beer sample. Our assembly method has enabled us to de‐convolute four bacterial and four yeast genomes from this sample, including a putative yeast hybrid. Downstream isolation and analysis of this hybrid confirmed its genome to consist of Pichia membranifaciens and that of another related, but undescribed, yeast. Our work shows that Hi‐C‐based metagenomic methods can overcome the limitation of traditional sequencing methods in studying complex mixtures of genomes. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Perioperative Mortality Following Oesophagectomy and Pancreaticoduodenectomy in Australia
Authors: Davis Sean S. , Babidge Wendy J. , Kiermeier Andreas , Aitken R. James , Maddern Guy J. 
Published: September 2017

AbstractIntroductionOesophagectomy (OG) and pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) remain associated with significant perioperative mortality rates (POMR). Improved outcomes in high‐volume centres have led to these procedures being centralised in some countries. This retrospective, population‐based cohort study was conducted to determine the Australian national, and state and territory based POMR associated with OG and PD, and assess trends over time.MethodsLogistic regression analysis was performed using de‐identified procedural data between 1 July 2005 and 30 June 2013 from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. Codes relating to OG and PD contained in the Australian Classification of Health Interventions were used to extract patient data. Mortality rates were risk adjusted for age, gender and urgency of admission. Temporal trends and differences between states/territories were investigated.ResultsThe average Australian POMR throughout the study period was 3.5 and 3.0% for OG and PD, respectively. OG POMR showed no significant change over time (P = 0.30) or variation between states (P = 0.079). The annual POMR associated with PD, however, showed a significant decrease during the study period (P = 0.01) with variation in PD POMR outcomes evident amongst different regions (P = 0.0004).ConclusionThis study demonstrates a comparable Australian PD and OG POMR when correlated with international studies. National PD POMR improved throughout the study with consistent improvement across the states and territories. This study does, however, show variation in PD POMR between states and territories. Potential intra‐state variation merits further investigation.
Autism spectrum disorder: an early and frequent feature in cerebrotendinous xanthomatosis
Authors: Stelten Bianca M. L. , Bonnot Olivier , Huidekoper Hidde H. , van Spronsen Francjan J. , van Hasselt Peter M. , Kluijtmans Leo A. J. , Wevers Ron A. , Verrips Aad 
Published: September 2017

AbstractBackgroundCerebrotendinous xanthomatosis (CTX) is an autosomal recessively inherited inborn error of metabolism (IEM) due to mutations in the CYP27A1 gene. The clinical picture ranges from being nearly asymptomatic in early childhood, up to severe disability at adult age. Infantile‐onset diarrhea and juvenile‐onset cataract are the earliest symptoms in childhood. In the current study, we evaluated the presence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in a large cohort of CTX patients.MethodsWe performed a retrospective patient file study in 77 genetically confirmed Dutch CTX patients to determine the frequency of ASD. In addition, we compared plasma cholestanol levels in CTX patients with and without a diagnosis of ASD and tried to establish a relation between CYP27A1 genotype and ASD.ResultsIn our CTX cohort, 10 patients (13%; nine pediatric and one adult) with ASD were identified. At the time of diagnosis of ASD, most patients only exhibited symptoms of diarrhea and/or intellectual disability without signs of cataract or neurological symptoms. No correlation was found between the presence of ASD and the level of cholestanol or CYP27A1 genotype. The behavioral problems stabilized or improved after treatment initiation with chenodeoxycholic acid (CDCA) in all pediatric patients.ConclusionsWe conclude that ASD is an early and probably underestimated frequent feature in CTX. Metabolic screening for CTX should be performed in patients with ASD when accompanied by diarrhea, intellectual disability, juvenile cataract, and/or neurological involvement. Early recognition allows for earlier initiation of specific treatment and will improve clinical outcome. Our results add CTX to the list of treatable IEMs associated with ASD.