bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Single Molecular Diels–Alder Crosslinker for Achieving Recyclable Cross‐Linked Polymers
Authors: Chen Shengli , Wang Fenfen , Peng Yongjin , Chen Tiehong , Wu Qiang , Sun Pingchuan
Published: August 2015

A triol‐functional crosslinker combining the thermoreversible properties of Diels–Alder (DA) adducts in one molecule is designed, synthesized, and used as an ideal substitute of a traditional crosslinker to prepare thermal recyclable cross‐linked polyurethanes with excellent mechanical properties and recyclability in a very simple and efficient way. The recycle property of these materials achieved by the DA/retro‐DA reaction at a suitable temperature is verified by differential scanning calorimetry and in situ variable temperature solid‐state NMR experiments during the cyclic heating and cooling processes. The thermal recyclability and remending ability of the bulk polyurethanes is demonstrated by three polymer processing methods, including hot‐press molding, injection molding, and solution casting. It is notable that all the recycled cross‐linked polymers display nearly invariable elongation/stress at break compared to the as‐synthesized samples. Further end‐group functionalization of this single molecular DA crosslinker provides the potential in preparing a wide range of recyclable cross‐linked polymers.

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Risk Preferences and Asset Ownership: Integrating Prospect Theory and Transaction Cost Economics
Authors: Martynov Aleksey , Schepker Donald J.
Published: August 2015

We integrate prospect theory into the discussion of Transaction Cost Economics (TCE) to illustrate how risk aversion may affect integration decisions. In particular, we argue that risk aversion creates incentives to acquire assets in situations where neither opportunism nor transaction‐specific investments are present, provided the assets in question can change in value unpredictably during their use. Our theory illustrates that risk aversion could connect opportunism, asset specificity, and uncertainty with integration decisions in the presence of incomplete contracts. Our theory complements and extends TCE by showing the role of risk aversion in integration decisions under bounded rationality and contract incompleteness. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Conformational studies of dammarane‐type triterpenoids using computational and NMR spectroscopic methods
Authors: Shin Byong‐kyu , Lee Jihyung , Choi Tae Hoon
Published: August 2015

Natural triterpenoids are of great interest to researchers of various fields as they possess diverse physicochemical and biological properties. In medicinal chemistry, detailed information about the chemical structures of bioactive triterpenoids often helps find new lead compounds. Herein, the low‐energy structures of (20S)‐protopanaxadiol and (20S)‐protopanaxatriol, the aglycones of various triterpenoid saponins found in Panax ginseng, and their (20R)‐epimers have been predicted by the geometry optimization of the conformers extracted from molecular dynamics simulations with the self‐consistent‐charge density functional tight‐binding method. By performing quantum mechanical calculations on the low‐energy conformers, we have estimated the NMR chemical shifts of the compounds, which display good agreement with the most recently reported experimental values within an expected range of errors. Our results indicate that theoretical estimation of the NMR parameters of a relatively large molecule with a molecular mass of 500 is feasible. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Graph orientation and flows over time
Authors: Arulselvan Ashwin , Groß Martin , Skutella Martin
Published: August 2015

Flows over time are used to model many real‐world logistic and routing problems. The networks underlying such problems—streets, tracks, etc.—are inherently undirected and directions are only imposed on them to reduce the danger of colliding vehicles and similar problems. Thus, the question arises, what influence the orientation of the network has on the network flow over time problem that is being solved on the oriented network. In the literature, this is also referred to as the contraflow or lane reversal problem. We introduce and analyze the price of orientation: How much flow is lost in any orientation of the network if the time horizon remains fixed? We prove that there is always an orientation where we can still send one‐third of the flow and this bound is tight. For the special case of networks with a single source or sink, this fraction is half, which is again tight. We present more results of similar flavor and also show nonapproximability results for finding the best orientation for single and multicommodity maximum flows over time. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. NETWORKS, Vol. 66(3), 196–209 2015
Exercise improves adipose function and inflammation and ameliorates fatty liver disease in obese diabetic mice
Authors: Haczeyni Fahrettin , Barn Vanessa , Mridha Auvro R. , Yeh Matthew M. , Estevez Emma , Febbraio Mark A. , Nolan Christopher J. , Bell‐Anderson Kim S. , Teoh Narci C. , Farrell Geoffrey C.
Published: August 2015

Objective

Adipose inflammation and dysfunction underlie metabolic obesity. Exercise improves glycemic control and metabolic indices, but effects on adipose function and inflammation are less clear. Accordingly, it was hypothesized that exercise improves adipose morphometry to reduce adipose inflammation in hyperphagic obese mice.

Methods

Alms1 mutant foz/foz mice housed in pairs were fed an atherogenic or chow diet; half the cages were fitted with a computer‐monitored wheel for voluntary exercise. Insulin‐induced AKT‐phosphorylation, adipocyte size distribution, and inflammatory recruitment were studied in visceral versus subcutaneous depots, and severity of fatty liver disease was determined.

Results

Exercise prevented obesity and diabetes development in chow‐fed foz/foz mice and delayed their onset in atherogenic‐fed counterparts. Insulin‐stimulated phospho‐AKT levels in muscle were improved with exercise, but not in adipose or liver. Exercise suppressed adipose inflammatory recruitment, particularly in visceral adipose, associated with an increased number of small adipocyte subpopulations, and enhanced expression of beige adipocyte factor PRDM16 in subcutaneous fat. In atherogenic‐fed foz/foz mice liver, exercise suppressed development of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis and related liver fibrosis.

Conclusions

Exercise confers metabo‐protective effects in atherogenic‐fed hyperphagic mice by preventing early onset of obesity and diabetes in association with enhanced muscle insulin sensitivity, improved adipose morphometry, and suppressed adipose and liver inflammation.
Organocatalyzed Trifluoromethylation of Ketones and Sulfonyl Fluorides by Fluoroform under a Superbase System
Authors: Okusu Satoshi , Hirano Kazuki , Tokunaga Etsuko , Shibata Norio
Published: August 2015

Fluoroform (HCF3, HFC‐23) is a side product in the manufacture of polytetrafluoroethylene (Teflon). Despite its attractive properties, taming HCF3 for trifluoromethylation is quite problematic owing to its low acidity and the lability of the naked trifluoromethyl carbanion generated from HCF3. Herein we report the organic‐superbase‐catalyzed trifluoromethylation of ketones and arylsulfonyl fluorides by HCF3. The reactions were carried out by using a newly developed “superbase organocatalyst system” consisting of catalytic amounts of P4‐tBu and N(SiMe3)3. A series of aryl and alkyl ketones were converted into the corresponding α‐trifluoromethyl carbinols in good yields under the organocatalysis conditions in THF. The superbase organocatalytic system can also be applied to the trifluoromethylation of arylsulfonyl fluorides for biologically important aryl triflones in THF or DMF in good yields. Protonated P4‐tBu, H[P4‐tBu]+, is suggested to be crucial for the catalytic process. This new catalytic methodology using HCF3 is expected to expand the range of synthetic applications of trifluoromethylation.
Multi‐response optimisation of ultrasound‐assisted extraction for recovery of flavonoids from red grape skins using response surface methodology
Authors: Tomaz Ivana , Maslov Luna , Stupić Domagoj , Preiner Darko , Ašperger Danijela , Karoglan Kontić Jasminka
Published: August 2015

Introduction

For the characterisation of grape cultivars, the profile and content of flavonoids are important because these compounds impact grape and wine quality. To determine the correct profile and content of flavonoids, the use of robust, sensitive and reliable methods is necessary.

Objective

The object of this research is to develop a new ultrasound‐assisted extraction (UAE) method for the recovery of flavonoids from grape skins using response surface methodology.

Method

Optimisation of UAE was performed using a complementary study combining a Box‐Behnken experimental design with qualitative analysis by high‐performance liquid chromatography.

Results

Optimal extraction conditions were obtained using the extraction solvent composed of acetonitrile:water:formic acid (26:73:1, v/v/v) at an extraction temperature of 50°C, an extraction time of 15 min in a single‐extraction step and with a solid‐to‐solvent ratio of 1:80 g/mL. The calculated relative standard deviations for the optimal extraction method were very low, measuring less than 5%.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates that numerous factors have strong effects on the extraction efficiency, including the type of organic modifier and its percentage in the extraction solvent, the number of extraction steps, the solid‐to‐solvent ratio, the extraction time and temperature and, finally, the particular nature of analyte and their position within the grape skin cell. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Recommended pre‐test counseling points for noninvasive prenatal testing using cell‐free DNA: a 2015 perspective
Authors: Sachs Amy , Blanchard Leah , Buchanan Amanda , Norwitz Errol , Bianchi Diana W.
Published: August 2015

Noninvasive prenatal testing (NIPT) using cell‐free DNA is being offered to an increasing number of women. Comprehensive pre‐test counseling is complicated by emerging information about the benefits and limitations of testing, as well as the potential to detect incidental findings. Genetic counselors are trained to facilitate informed decision‐making; however, not all centers have access to these professionals. To aid in the informed consent process, we have summarized key points to be included in discussions with patients who are considering NIPT. © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
PolyHIPE/pullulan composites derived from glycidyl methacrylate and 1,3‐butanediol dimethacrylate‐based high internal phase emulsions
Authors: Çira Funda , Mert Emine Hilal
Published: August 2015

Highly porous composites of poly(glycidyl methacrylate‐co‐1,3‐butanediol dimethacrylate) and pullulan were prepared as semi‐interpenetrating polymer networks by cross‐linking of high internal phase emulsions (HIPEs). HIPEs were prepared by using an aqueous phase made of pullulan dissolved in deionised water. Instead of conventional cross‐linkers such as divinyl benzene, 1,3‐butanediol dimethacrylate was used as a flexible co‐monomer. Morphological and mechanical properties of the porous composites with an initial pullulan loading ranging from 1 to 10 wt % have been investigated. Resulting composites were tested in terms of uniaxial compression stress and it was found out that the use of pullulan and flexible co‐monomer in the HIPE preparation increases the compression modulus from 13.53 to 30.8 MPa. Textural analyses of the resulting composites show that in all cases open cellular foams composed of primary cavities (∼112–74 μm) connected with secondary interconnected pores were produced with a specific surface area in the range of 1.7–3.0 m2 g−1. In addition, the influence of using porogen in the oil phase was investigated. It was found that using a porogen reduces the cavity size diameter from ∼112 to 20 µm and increases the compression modulus from 13.53 to 47.06 MPa. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 55:2636–2642, 2015. © 2015 Society of Plastics Engineers
Ambiguous anti‐fouling surfaces: Facile synthesis by light‐mediated radical polymerization
Authors: Pester Christian W. , Poelma Justin E. , Narupai Benjaporn , Patel Shrayesh N. , Su Gregory M. , Mates Thomas E. , Luo Yingdong , Ober Christopher K. , Hawker Craig J. , Kramer Edward J.
Published: August 2015

In an attempt to create a polymer brush‐based platform for the systematic study for anti‐biofouling surfaces, the benefits of surface initiated, visible light‐mediated radical polymerization are utilized to fabricate well‐defined, chemically ambiguously patterned surfaces. A variety of analytical tools are used to illustrate the precise tuning of surface chemistry and thoroughly characterize spatially well‐defined, hydrophilic/hydrophobic surfaces composed of poly(ethylene glycol methacrylate) and poly(trifluoroethyl methacrylate) with chemical definition on the micron scale. Advantages of both visible light‐mediated photopolymerization and traditional copper‐catalyzed atom transfer radical polymerization are combined to achieve both high spatial control and expanded monomer tolerance. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2016, 54, 253–262
Synthesis of water‐soluble zwitterionic polysiloxanes
Authors: Skinner Matthew , Selhorst Ryan , Emrick Todd
Published: August 2015

A series of water‐soluble siloxane polymers with pendent phosphorylcholine (PC) and sulfobetaine (SB) zwitterions was prepared using thiol‐ene “click” chemistry. Specifically, well‐defined vinyl‐substituted siloxane homopolymers and block copolymers were functionalized with small molecule zwitterionic thiols at room temperature. Rapid and quantitative substitution of the pendent vinyl groups was achieved, and zwitterionic polysiloxanes of narrow molecular weight distribution were obtained. The PC‐ and SB‐substituted polymers were found to be readily soluble in pure, salt‐free water. Critical micelle concentrations (CMCs) of these polymers in water were measured using a pyrene fluorescence probe, with CMC values estimated to be <0.01 g/L. Polymer aggregates were studied by dynamic light scattering, and the micelles generated from the PC block copolymers were visualized, after drying, by transmission electron microscopy. Aqueous solutions of these zwitterionic polysiloxanes significantly reduced the oil‐water interfacial surface tension, functioning as polymer amphiphiles that lend stability to oil‐in‐water emulsions. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2016, 54, 127–134
Synthesis and liquid crystalline behavior of bulky poly(methacrylamide)s
Authors: Manning Kylie B. , Shtukenberg Alexander G. , Nichols Shane M. , Kahr Bart , Weck Marcus
Published: August 2015

N‐(Bis(4‐(2‐ethylhexyloxy)phenyl)(phenyl)‐methyl)methacrylamide was synthesized and polymerized via reversible addition‐fragmentation chain‐transfer (RAFT) polymerization. The chain‐transfer agent (4‐cyano‐4‐(phenylcarbonothioylthio) pentanoic acid (CPADB)), combined with a chiral additive, and a radical initiator yielded polymers with dispersities between 1.2 and 1.4. At low concentrations, the polymers are soluble in hexanes and chloroform while at higher concentrations they swell in these solvents. Characterization of the polymers by wide‐angle X‐ray scattering (WAXS) revealed an interplanar distance of 19.0 Å. The WAXS data combined with polarized optical microscopy support a lamellar crystallization and lyotropic liquid crystalline behavior in hexanes and chloroform. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2015, 53, 2563–2568
Synthesis and characterization of polymer electrolytes based on cross‐linked phenoxy‐containing polyphosphazenes
Authors: Tsao Chih‐Hao , Ueda Mitsuru , Kuo Ping‐Lin
Published: August 2015

A new method to prepare the polymer electrolytes for lithium‐ion batteries is proposed. The polymer electrolytes were prepared by reacting poly(phosphazene)s (MEEPP) having 2‐(2‐methoxyethoxy)ethoxy and 2‐(phenoxy)ethoxy units with 2,4,6‐tris[bis(methoxymethyl)amino]‐1,3,5‐triazine (CYMEL) as a cross‐linking agent. This method is simple and reliable for controlling the cross‐linking extent, thereby providing a straightforward way to produce a flexible polymer electrolyte membrane. The 6 mol % cross‐linked polymer electrolyte (ethylene oxide unit (EO)/Li = 24:1) exhibited a maximum ionic conductivity of 5.36 × 10−5 S cm−1 at 100 °C. The 7Li linewidths of solid‐state static NMR showed that the ionic conductivity was strongly related to polymer segment motion. Moreover, the electrochemical stability of the MEEPP polymer electrolytes increased with an increasing extent of cross‐linking, the highest oxidation voltage of which reached as high as 7.0 V. Moreover, phenoxy‐containing polyphosphazenes are very useful model polymers to study the relationship between the polymer flexibility; that is, the cross‐linking extent and the mobility of metal ions. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2016, 54, 352–358
Gels as Energy Dissipation Media for Energetic Materials Desensitization
Authors: Weitz Amir , Korogodsky Gady , Tsoglin Alex , Grinstein Dan , Gottlieb Levi
Published: August 2015

The hypothesis that gels, which have a variety of dissipation mechanisms in response to external forces can provide efficient energy deflection media protecting sensitive energetic materials from accidental initiation is explored. Entrapment of explosives, with an emphasis on peroxide materials, in gels is demonstrated as a general method to substantially lower explosives sensitivity diverting stimuli from the sensitive materials to the gel. Friction is a more difficult stimulus to dissipate in comparison to impact. The desensitization method developed, is with minimal material manipulations. Practical considerations as mode of application, solubility, and controlling speed of gelation determine that the method of choice is a sol‐gel process using a mixture of three alkylalkoxysilanes, RnSi(OR′)4–n, producing a hybrid organic‐inorganic gel enabling complete triacetone triperoxide (TATP) desensitization at 20–25 % v/v concentrations.
Impacts of process safety time on layer of protection analysis
Authors: Barnard Geoffrey , Creel William
Published: August 2015

The ability of an Independent Protection Layer (IPL) to achieve a given level of risk reduction is dependent upon its fulfillment of several core attributes. A key provision for any IPL to be considered effective and functionally adequate is its capability to respond to a process demand quickly enough to stop the propagation of the hazard scenario it was designed to prevent. While this seems obvious and reasonable, the estimation of Process Safety Time and the specification of IPL Response Times are more complex, and often deferred or overlooked altogether.

What is Process Safety Time? How is it determined? When? And by whom? This article examines the relationship between Process Safety Time and IPL Response Times, essential variables for the justification of IPL effectiveness, and their impacts on the success of Layer of Protection Analysis. © 2015 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Process Saf Prog 34: 383–388, 2015
Using research and education to implement practical bed bug control programs in multifamily housing
Authors: Bennett Gary W , Gondhalekar Ameya D , Wang Changlu , Buczkowski Grzegorz , Gibb Timothy J
Published: August 2015

Multifamily housing facilities serving low‐income populations have been at the forefront of bed bug outbreaks. Research conducted in the past 8 years has consistently proven that integrated pest management (IPM) is the best approach for successful suppression of bed bug infestations. Bed bug IPM in multifamily settings is especially dependent upon a collaborative community or building‐wide effort involving residents, building staff and pest control technicians. Other components of a bed bug IPM program include regular monitoring to detect early‐stage bed bug infestations and combined use of non‐chemical and chemical interventions. Lastly, to reduce reinfestation rates and costs associated with bed bug control, it is critical to continue periodic monitoring and implement preventive control measures even after successful elimination of bed bugs has been achieved. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
Hole injection contribution to transport mechanisms in metal/p−/p++ and metal/oxide/p−/p++ diamond structures
Authors: Muret P. , Eon D. , Traoré A. , Maréchal A. , Pernot J. , Gheeraert E.
Published: August 2015

Heterostructures such as Schottky diodes and metal/oxide/ semiconductor structures are the building blocks of diamond electronic devices. They are able to carry large current densities, up to several kA cm, if a heavily boron‐doped layer (p) is included in the semiconducting stack, thus affording a metallic reservoir of mobile holes close to the lightly doped layer (p). In this work, hole injection effects are evidenced experimentally in the two previously mentioned devices and also simulated numerically. Although the potential barrier height at metal/semiconductor interfaces is a fundamental parameter, a more general approach consists in defining the current density from the product of an effective velocity and carrier concentration at interface. In accordance with experimental results, such a view permits to describe both depletion and accumulation regimes, which indeed can exist at the metallic or oxide interface, and to take into account the increase of the hole concentration above the thermal equilibrium one in the p layer. The lower the temperature, the larger is this second effect. For sufficiently thin p layers, typically below 2 m, this effect frees device operation from the limitation due to incomplete ionization of acceptors and allows a strong decrease of the specific resistance and forward losses while preserving breakdown voltages in the range of 1.4–2 kV.
Optimal linear combination of biomarkers for multi‐category diagnosis
Authors: Hsu Man‐Jen , Chen Yi‐Hau
Published: August 2015

The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and the area under the ROC curve have been popularly employed in evaluating the diagnosis accuracy for diseases with binary outcome categories and have been naturally used as the utility measures for finding the ‘optimal’ linear combination of multiple biomarkers, in the hope to improve the diagnostic accuracy based on each single biomarker. For diseases with more than two outcome categories, the ROC manifold and the hypervolume under the ROC manifold (HUM) have been analogously proposed as diagnostic accuracy measures. However, finding optimal combinations of biomarkers based on the HUM criterion is less easily feasible in computation, especially when the number of disease categories is more than three and the number of biomarkers is large. In this study, we propose two new indices for evaluating the diagnostic accuracy for multi‐category diagnosis, which are related to the lower and upper bounds of HUM, and involve only diagnostic accuracies for comparing adjacent pairs of outcome categories. We then propose finding the optimal linear combinations of biomarkers for multi‐category diagnosis using the new indices as the criterion functions. Simulations and real data examples show that the optimal linear combinations identified by the new proposal perform quite well in diagnostic accuracy and can be much more efficient in computation than the HUM‐based method. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cysteine–Ag Cluster Hydrogel Confirmed by Experimental and Numerical Studies
Authors: Cui Yanyan , Wang Yaling , Zhao Lina
Published: August 2015

The native cysteine (Cys)‐Ag3 cluster hydrogel is approved for the first time by both experimental and theoretical studies. From the detailed molecular structure and energy information, three factors are found to ensure the self‐assembly of Cys and Ag3, and result in the hydrogel. First, the Ag–S bonds make Cys and Ag3 form Cys‐Ag3‐Cys monomer. Second, intermolecular hydrogen bonds between carboxyl groups of adjacent monomer push them self‐assembled. Third, more monomer precisely self‐assemble to produce the –[Cys‐Ag3‐Cys]n multimer, e.g., a single molecular chain with the left‐handed helix conformation, via a benign thermodynamic process. These multimers entangle together to form micro‐network to trap water and produce hydorgel in situ. The hydrogen bonds of hydrogel are sensitive to thermal and proton stimuli, and the hydrogel presents lysosome targeting properties via fluorescent imaging with biocompatibility.
Dynamic shear force amplification in regular frame–wall systems
Authors: Kazaz İlker , Gülkan Polat
Published: August 2015

A parametric study is conducted to investigate the dynamic shear amplification factor (DAF) in low‐to‐mid‐rise frame–wall systems in which the reinforcement curtailment along the height matches the required code strength. The level of frame–wall interaction is varied by changing the wall index, defined as the ratio of the total wall area to the floor plan area, in a generic frame–wall system, and its correlation with the DAF is investigated. Wall index values ranging in the 0.2% to 2% interval are selected. Walls with lengths of 3m , 5 m and 8 m are used in the design of model buildings of 4, 8 and 12 stories. Shear–flexure beam continuum formulation is used in design and modeling. The global behavior is analyzed using nonlinear response history procedure using spectrum compatible ground motions. It is found that the primary source of amplification is the level of inelastic demand on the system. Walls designed for code‐specified force reduction factor R = 6 experienced an average base shear force amplification in the order of 1.64 with standard deviation of 0.19 with respect to design shear force. Amplification diminishes with decreasing R. An expression for the dynamic amplification factor as a function of the number of stories and force reduction factor R is proposed. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Optimal default and liquidation with tangible assets and debt renegotiation
Authors: Goto Makoto , Suzuki Teruyoshi
Published: August 2015

We propose a pricing model for corporate securities issued by a levered firm with the possibility of debt renegotiation, where the firm's earnings follow a geometric Brownian motion with stochastic collaterals. While equity holders can default the firm when the earnings become insufficient, they may liquidate it by repaying the face value of debt when the value of collaterals becomes sufficiently high. Unlike the existing models, the bivariate structure enables us to distinguish strategic default, liquidity default and ordinary liquidation, which makes the contribution of strategic debt service to credit spreads lower than that obtained in the previous models.
4. “Biphasic” histology is associated with the non-WNT/SHH molecular subtype of medulloblastoma
Authors: Dunham C. , Foster C. , Triscott J. , Dunn S.
Published: August 2015

Introduction

In 2007, Ellison et al coined the term “biphasic” medulloblastoma (B-MB) to characterize histology that mimicked the desmoplastic nodular (DN) variant on routine staining, but which lacked internodular reticulin deposition. Via interphase FISH, and utilizing markers for 9q22 and chromosome 17 alterations (ie, -17p and i17q), Ellison et al. suggested that B-MB and DN-MB were genetically different.

Methods

We performed a clinicopathologic review of MBs treated at BCCH from 1986-2011. Using nanoString’s n Counter Analysis System (nCAS), each tumor was molecularly subtyped (ie, WNT, SHH, group 3 or group 4). All original glass slides were reviewed to determine WHO histologic subtype [ie, classic, large cell anaplastic (LCA), DN, MB with extensive nodularity (MBEN)]. Tumors were also evaluated for nodularity (scattered vs. frequent) and advanced neuronal differentiation. Reticulin staining was assessed on all cases.

Results

20 B-MB were identified; by WHO definition, most of these resided within the classic category (N=19), while one was LCA. 13 of 20 B-MB displayed ‘scattered” nodules; by molecular subtype, these included eight group 4, four group 3 and one WNT tumors. Seven of the 20 B-MB exhibited “frequent” nodules; by molecular subtype, these included six group 4 and one group 3 tumors. Statistical analysis confirmed this non random distribution of B-MB across molecular subtypes.

Conclusion

Our data confirm the work of Ellison et al. that suggested B-MB is genetically different than DN-MB. In particular, B-MB resides in the non-WNT/SHH molecular category, but especially amongst group 4 when nodularity is “frequent”.
6. Surfen, a proteoglycan antagonist, reduces lysolecithin-induced demyelination with related effects on macrophage function
Authors: Warford J. , Madara L. , Hoskin D.W. , Easton A.S.
Published: August 2015

Proteoglycans are components of the extracellular matrix and have roles in brain development and responses to injury. Connective tissue components are known to be major inhibitors of remyelination in mouse models of demyelination and are found at the border of active demyelinating lesions in Multiple Sclerosis. Surfen (bis 2-methyl, 4- amino, 6-quinolyl amide) is a small molecule antagonist previously shown to bind preferentially to heparan sulfate and related proteoglycans.

We have previously reported that surfen reduces T cell proliferation in vivo and in vitro. Here we report the effects of surfen on an in vivo model of demyelination and its effects on macrophage function in vitro. Demyelination was induced by injecting the detergent lysolecithin into the spinal cord dorsal columns of adult C57Bl/6 mice. Relative to vehicle treated mice, co-injection of surfen (100 μM) with lysolecithin reduced total lesion area seven days post-injection. Because macrophages dominate these lesions and influence remyelination, murine bone marrow derived macrophages were assessed using assays of chemotaxis and phagocytosis. Macrophages chemotaxis was increased in response to surfen (10 μM) relative to vehicle by approximately 15% (p<0.05). Phagocytosis of E. coli was not affected by surfen.

These effects of surfen on experimental demyelination and macrophage function suggest that proteoglycan binding may promote aspects of myelin repair relevant to Multiple Sclerosis.
8. Maturation of the Fetal Olfactory Bulb
Authors: Sarnat Harvey B.
Published: August 2015

The olfactory bulb exhibits architecture unique amongst laminar cortices, lacking molecular and subplate zones and having superficial synaptic glomeruli. Its ontogenesis also is unique because neuroblasts do not migrate radially but stream in from the rostral telencephalon; an ependymal-lined olfactory ventricle is transitory. The olfactory is the only sensory system to not project to the thalamus but incorporates a thalamic equivalent. It is a repository of progenitor cells in the mature brain. The aim was to define olfactory bulb development in the human foetus: synaptogenesis and cellular maturation.

Immunoreactivity in paraffin sections of synaptophysin, NeuN, calretinin, vimentin and nestin was examined at autopsy in olfactory bulb in 20 foetuses, 9-40wks gestation. Synaptophysin reactivity was seen around the somata of mitral and tufted neurons at 9wks, synaptic glomeruli at 13wks. The granule cell layer in the core exhibited NeuN-reactive nuclei in cells of the outer half at 20wks; 60% of granular neurons reacted by term. Synaptophysin reactivity in the granular layer initiates at 15wk. GABAergic calretinin-reactive neurons and neurites and synaptic glomeruli appeared at 13wks. Nestin- and vimentin-reactive bipolar progenitor cells were shown at all gestational ages, mainly in the granular layer, the ratio to other cells remaining constant. Synapses form in the small accessory olfactory bulb of the nervus terminalis earlier than in the main bulb. Development of synaptic vesicles in the human fetal olfactory bulb is precise both spatially and temporally, but not yet fully mature at term.

In brain malformations and congenital metabolic and genetic diseases, the olfactory bulb may be affected and provide additional neuropathological data. Therapeutic autologous transplantation of olfactory progenitor cells focus renewed interest in the olfactory bulb.
11. White Matter Changes In Cardiac Arrest Encephalopathy
Authors: Alturkustani M. , Ang L-C.
Published: August 2015

Background: White matter changes are common finding during brain autopsies especially in elderly. Although there are many studies applying radiological-pathological correlation on these lesions, their pathogenesis is still unclear. However, a number of possible causes have been suggested including: hypoxic-ischemia, altered blood brain barrier permeability, vascular pathology and chronic hypoperfusion. As usually there is a multiplicity of causes in any individual case, it is very difficult to pinpoint the major causal factor contributing to observed pathological changes. In this study, we document the white matter pathology in global acute hypoxic/ischemic injury due to cardiac arrest as the major causal factor.

Method: We retrieve 16 cases of cardiac arrest encephalopathy in our archive with post arrest survival range from 6 hours to 14 days. Several special, and immunohistochemical stains were used to study the axonal and myelin pathology.

Result: The pathogenicity of the cardiac arrest was confirmed in all cases by demonstrating the expected gray matter pathology, albeit in varying degree of severity. The white matter changes range from unremarkable in the first 2 days, evidence of cerebral edema (visualized from 3rd day on), and early axonal degeneration, to diffuse myelin pallor secondary to marked axonal loss on day 14.

Conclusion: The white matter changes in post cardiac arrest are mainly due to early cerebral edema and axonal degeneration and the effect on myelin is secondary.
13. Idiopathic Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus: Pathological changes in cortical biopsies in relation to function and response to treatment
Authors: Sennik S. , Anton M. , Cusimano M. , Munoz D.G.
Published: August 2015

Cortical peri-operative biopsies obtained from 11 idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus (iNPH) consenting patients (aged 67-88 years, median 74) were immuno-stained for Beta-amyloid (AMYB), Amyloid Precursor Protein (APP), total Tau, phosphorylated tau (AT8), Alpha Synuclein (AS), TDP- 43, P62 & GFAP. 5/11 patients had AMYB deposits, 2 diffuse plaques only, 3 diffuse and cored plaques; 1 also with amyloid angiopathy (CAA). Plaque neurites were labeled for APP and AT8 in all 3 patients with cored plaques; in one were these and neurofibrillary tangles labeled for total tau. The surface area covered by AMYB ranged from 12.8% to 0.08%. The presence of AMYB correlated with age (t, p=.02). Neither AS nor TDP-43 pathologies were identified. The density of cortical GFAP+ astrocytes showed a trend towards inverse correlation with age (r=-0.58, p=.06) but not with AMYB or AT8 pathologies. There were no significant correlations between pre-shunt Evans Ratio and MoCA scores and presence or amount of pathology. Improvement in ventriculomegaly (5/11) did not differ between patients with and without AMYB pathologies. Improvements in MoCA (6/8) were more common in patients without AMYB deposits (X2,p=.028; t, p=.04), but also in younger patients (t, p=.019). The patient with CAA improved, but the one with total tau pathology did not improve cognitively, although her gait did. In this preliminary study only AD-related pathology was found in iNPH. Cognitive improvement was associated with younger age and absence of amyloid deposits; however, a larger number of patients will be required to dissect these variables.
*NT revisited again: An approach to postnasal laryngeal alternations with perceptual Cueconstraints
Authors: HAMANN SILKE , DOWNING LAURA J.
Published: August 2015

Phonological alternations in homorganic nasal–stop sequences provide a continuing topic of investigation for phonologists and phoneticians alike. Surveys like Herbert (1986), Rosenthal (1989), Steriade (1993) and Hyman (2001) demonstrate that cross-linguistically the most common process is for the postnasal stop to become voiced, as captured by Pater’s (1999) markedness constraint *NT. However, as observed since Hyman (2001), *NT alone does not account for all postnasal patterns of laryngeal alternation. In this paper, we focus on three problematic patterns. First, in some languages with a two-way laryngeal contrast, voiceless stops are aspirated postnasally, i.e. the contrast between NT and ND is enhanced, not neutralized. Second, in some languages with a three-way laryngeal contrast, the voicing contrast is maintained postnasally, while the aspiration contrast neutralizes in favour of aspiration. Third, in other languages with a three-way laryngeal contrast we find the opposite postnasal aspiration neutralization: aspiration is lost. We argue that an analysis based on perceptual cues provides the best account for this range of alternations. It demonstrates the crucial role of perceptual cues and laryngeal contrasts in a particular language while fitting the range of patterns into an Optimality Theoretic factorial typology that covers a wider range of postnasal laryngeal alternations than previous analyses.
The Comparative History of a Genre: The production and circulation of books on travel and ethnographies in early modern Europe and China
Authors: RUBIÉS JOAN-PAU , OLLÉ MANEL
Published: August 2015

Contrary to the long-standing idea of a scientific failure in early modern China as compared to Europe, some recent work has emphasized the existence of a tradition of ‘evidential’ research in the natural sciences, antiquarianism, and geography, especially during the Sung, Ming, and Qing periods. This article seeks to develop this new perspective by offering a comparative history of the genres of travel writing and ethnography in early modern Europe and Ming/early Qing China. We argue that there were qualitative as well as quantitative differences in the way that these genres functioned in each cultural area. Even when we find apparent similarities, we note different chronological rhythms and a different position of these genres of travel writing within a wider cultural field—what we might term their ‘cultural relevance’. The specific nature of Chinese state imperialism—or, conversely, the particular nature of European overseas colonialism—played a role in determining the type of ethnographic approach that came to predominate in each cultural area. These parallels and differences suggest a fresh perspective on the cultural origins of the ‘great divergence’.
Habitat availability is not limiting the distribution of the Bohemian–Bavarian lynxLynx lynxpopulation
Authors: Magg Nora , Müller Jörg , Heibl Christoph , Hackländer Klaus , Wölfl Sybille , Wölfl Manfred , Bufka Ludêk , Červený Jaroslav , Heurich Marco
Published: August 2015

A population of Eurasian lynxLynx lynxwas established by reintroductions in the Bohemian Forest Ecosystem in the 1970s and 1980s. The most recent information on the population status indicates that the distribution has stagnated since the late 1990s, for unknown reasons. We assessed the availability of suitable habitat along the Austrian–German–Czech border, and hypothesized that the Bohemian–Bavarian lynx population is not in equilibrium with habitat suitability. Based on global positioning system data from 10 radio-collared lynx, we used a maximum entropy approach to model suitable habitat. Variables reflecting anthropogenic influence contributed most to the model and were negatively associated with the occurrence of lynx. We evaluated the model prediction using independent records of lynx from monitoring in Bavaria, Germany. Using our habitat approach we estimated the area of potential habitat, based on a mean annual home range of 445 km2for males and 122 km2for females. Our results indicated there were 12,415 km2of suitable habitat, distributed among 13 patches, for a potential population of c. 142 (93–160) resident lynx. We assessed connectivity via least-cost paths and found that all suitable patches could be reached by the lynx. A comparison with the current distribution of lynx, however, confirms that a significant proportion of suitable habitat is not occupied, which indicates that the distribution is limited by factors other than habitat, with illegal killing being the most likely cause. Our study provides crucial information for the development of a conservation strategy and regional planning for the Bohemian–Bavarian lynx population.
Psychological strength assessed in late adolescence and risk for criminal behavior: a Swedish prospective cohort and twin analysis
Authors: Kendler K. S. , Lönn S. L. , Lichtenstein P. , Sundquist J. , Sundquist K.
Published: August 2015

Background.

Certain personality traits predispose to criminal behavior (CB). We further clarify this relationship in a Swedish national sample.

Method.

Psychological strength (PS) was assessed on a nine-point scale at personal interview in 1 653 721 Swedish men aged 18–20 years. We examined the association between PS and total, violent and recurrent CB over the lifetime (logistic regression), prospectively (Cox regression) and by bivariate Cholesky decomposition in 2507 monozygotic and 2244 dizygotic twin pairs (OpenMx).

Results.

Examining linear effects by logistic regression, PS was robustly associated with lifetime risk of total CB (per point, odds ratio = 0.74) and even more strongly associated with risk for violent (0.69) and recurrent CB (0.52). Prospective predictions of these three forms of CB by PS were similar, with hazard ratios of 0.80, 0.73 and 0.54, respectively. Twin modeling demonstrated that, for all three CB types, the association with PS arose almost entirely from familial effects. Common shared environment accounted for 72, 56 and 43% of the phenotypic correlation between PS and, respectively, total, violent and recurrent CB. Parallel figures for common genetic effects were for 24, 37 and 54%, respectively.

Conclusions.

PS is strongly related to risk for total CB, and even more strongly for violent and, especially, recurrent CB. This association is probably not causal but rather results from shared familial risk factors that make an impact both on PS and risk for CB. PS has a stronger overall correlation with more severe criminal outcomes and a higher proportion of that correlation results from common genetic factors.
IV.—On Least Squares and Linear Combination of Observations
Authors: Aitken A. C.
Published: August 2015

In a series of papers W. F. Sheppard (1912, 1914) has considered the approximate representation of equidistant, equally weighted, and uncorrelated observations under the following assumptions:–

(i) The data beingu1, u2, …, un, the representation is to be given by linear combinations

(ii) The linear combinations are to be such as would reproduce any set of values that were already values of a polynomial of degree not higher than thekth.

(iii) The sum of squared coefficientswhich measures the mean square error ofyi, is to be a minimum for each value ofi.
Estimating Blood Transfusion Requirements in Preparation for a Major Earthquake: The Tehran, Iran Study
Authors: Tabatabaie Morteza , Ardalan Ali , Abolghasemi Hassan , Naieni Kourosh Holakouie , Pourmalek Farshad , Ahmadi Batool , Shokouhi Mostafa
Published: August 2015

Introduction:

Tehran, Iran, with a population of approximately seven million people, is at a very high risk for a devastating earthquake. This study aims to estimate the number of units of blood required at the time of such an earthquake.

Methods:

To assume the damage of an earthquake in Tehran, the researchers applied the Centre for Earthquake and Environmental Studies of Tehran/Japan International Cooperation Agency (CEST/JICA) fault-activation scenarios, and accordingly estimated the injury-to-death ratio (IDR), hospital admission rate (HAR), and blood transfusion rate (BTR). The data were based on Iran's major earthquakes during last two decades. The following values were considered for the analysis: (1) IDR = 1, 2, and 3; (2) HAR = 0.25 and 0.35; and (3) BTR = 0.05, 0.07, and 0.10. The American Association of Blood Banks' formula was adapted to calculate total required numbers of Type-O red blood cell (RBC) units. Calculations relied on the following assumptions: (1) no change in Tehran's vulnerability from CEST/JICA study time; (2) no functional damage to Tehran Blood Transfusion Post; and (3) standards of blood safety are secure during the disaster responses. Surge capacity was estimated based on the Bam earthquake experience. The maximum, optimum, and minimum blood deficits were calculated accordingly.

Results:

No deficit was estimated in case of the Mosha fault activation and the optimum scenario of North Tehran fault. The maximum blood deficit was estimated from the activation of the Ray fault, requiring up to 107,293 and 95,127 units for the 0–24 hour and the 24–72 hour periods after the earthquake, respectively. The optimum deficit was estimated up to 46,824 and 16,528 units for 0–24 hour and 24–72 hour period after the earthquake, respectively.

Conclusions:

In most Tehran earthquake scenarios, a shortage of blood was estimated to surge the capacity of all blood transfusion posts around the country within first three days, as it might ask for a 2–8 times more than what the system had produced following the Bam earthquake.
Socioeconomic level and bilinguals’ performance on language and cognitive measures
Authors: GATHERCOLE VIRGINIA C. MUELLER , KENNEDY IVAN , THOMAS ENLLI MÔN
Published: August 2015

The performance of bilingual children and adults in Wales on Welsh and English vocabulary and grammar and on cognitive measures is re-analysed in relation to SES indicators of parental education and parental professions. Results are reported for 732 participants ranging across seven age groups from age 3 to over 60 and from four home language types, monolingual English, and bilinguals with only English at home, Welsh and English at home, or only Welsh at home. Results reveal extensive evidence of SES influence on performance, and of a complex relation of exposure in the home and SES level on performance, modulated by the age of the participant and whether one is considering the majority or minority language.