bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A new straightforward method for measuring xylene soluble for high impact polypropylene
Authors: Boyron Olivier , Cancelas Aarón J. , Taam Manel , Boisson Christophe , McKenna Timothy
Published: November 2016

The determination of the xylene soluble fraction in high impact polypropylene is used to estimate the rubber content in the polymer material. In analytical laboratories, the soluble fraction is measured by solvent extraction using gravimetric methods according to ASTM5492 or ISO6427. These methods require a large quantity of polymers, large volume of solvent, and long extraction times. It is therefore highly desirable to develop other laboratory methodologies for this task; preferably methodologies that employ existing laboratory equipment. It is found that the SEC method proposed here yields estimates of rubber contents very close to those found using standardized technics but in much shorter times.
Organocatalyzed Synthesis of Oleochemical Carbonates from CO2 and Renewables
Authors: Büttner Hendrik , Steinbauer Johannes , Wulf Christoph , Dindaroglu Mehmet , Schmalz Hans‐Günther , Werner Thomas
Published: November 2016

Bifunctional phosphorus‐based organocatalysts proved to be highly efficient for the atom‐economic reaction of CO2 and epoxidized oleochemicals. Notably, those products are obtained from CO2 and renewable feedstocks only. Structure–activity relationships have been deduced from a screening of 22 organocatalysts in a test reaction. Bifunctional catalysts based on a phosphonium salt bearing a simple phenolic moiety proved to be extraordinarily active under comparatively mild and solvent‐free reaction conditions. In the presence of the most active organocatalyst 12 oleochemical carbonates were isolated in excellent yields up to 99 %. This organocatalyzed reaction represents an excellent example for the realization of the 12 Principles of Green Chemistry as well as the 12 Principles of CO2 Chemistry.
Melanotic neuroectodermal tumor of infancy: Cytology and histopathology of a rare lesion at an uncommon site
Authors: Batta Nishant , Narang Vikram , Kaur Harpreet , Selhi Pavneet Kaur , Sood Neena
Published: November 2016

Melanotic neuroectodermal tumour of infancy is a rare, pigmented neoplasm generally arising in infants during the first year of life. The cytological features are rarely described in the literature. This case due to its rarity and unusual site emphasising the cytopathological features and the necessity of histology for differentiating it from other round cell tumours has been presented. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2017;45:173–175. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Lymphoepithelioma‐like carcinoma of cervix
Authors: Rathore Ruchi , Arora Vinod K. , Singh Bharat
Published: November 2016

Lymphoepithelioma‐like carcinoma (LELC) is a rare neoplasm of the cervix. The importance of distinguishing this undifferentiated carcinoma with a predominant lymphocytic infiltrate lies in the fact that despite being poorly differentiated they have a better prognosis. The diagnosis however becomes more challenging when the pathologist is provided with a small cervical biopsy or a Papanicolaou smear. While the reports describing histology and their relation to Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) are many, there are only few case reports describing the cytology of these tumors. We describe the cytological features of LELC of cervix on conventional smear and correlate it with the histopathological findings of the same. A 67‐year‐old multiparous Hindu woman presented to the gynecology outpatient department with the history of postmenopausal bleeding for the past six months. The cytological examination of the cervical smear (Papanicolaou stain) was done followed by cervical and endometrial biopsy. Based on Papanicolaou smear and biopsy suggestive of a poorly differentiated carcinoma a radical hysterectomy with pelvic lymphadenectomy was performed. Hysterectomy specimen showed the morphology of LELC and was then correlated with the cervical smears retrospectively. On review of cytological smears it was seen that the tumor cell clusters had an abundant lymphoid background, which was overlooked earlier. Immunohistochemistry for EBV was negative. We conclude that the presence of undifferentiated tumor cell clusters with ill‐defined cell borders and large number of lymphoid cells in the background suggest the diagnosis of LELC on cervical cytology. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2017;45:239–242. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Enantioselective disposition of (R)‐salmeterol and (S)‐salmeterol in urine following inhaled dosing and application to doping control
Authors: Jacobson Glenn A. , Hostrup Morten , Narkowicz Christian K. , Nichols David S. , Haydn Walters E.
Published: November 2016

Salmeterol (USAN, INN, BAN) is a long‐acting beta2‐adrenoceptor agonist (LABA) widely used in the treatment of airways disease. Although salmeterol is permitted via inhalation by athletes and supratherapeutic dosing may enhance performance, no urine threshold has been established by the World Anti‐Doping Agency (WADA). Salmeterol is a chiral compound consisting of (R)‐ and (S)‐enantiomers, normally administered as racemic (rac‐) mixture via inhalation. Levels of rac‐salmeterol in urine are often below detectable levels and there is surprisingly little information regarding the enantioselectivity of salmeterol pharmacokinetics. In this study, subjects inhaled either 50 (n = 6) or 200 µg (n = 4; generally regarded as maximum therapeutic dose) of salmeterol and urine was then collected for 24 h and analyzed by enantioselective ultra performance liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC‐MS/MS). Maximum rac‐salmeterol urine concentrations were obtained at 2 h for both doses with medians of 0.084 ng/mL after the 50 µg dose and 2.1 ng/mL after the 200 µg dose, with an individual maximum of 5.7 ng/mL. Levels were detectable at 24 h for both doses. Salmeterol displayed enantioselective pharmacokinetics, with a mean ± SD log (S):(R) = 0.055 ± 0.025 (P < 0.0001) equivalent to (S):(R) of 1.13. In conclusion, rac‐salmeterol by inhalation exhibits modest enantioselectivity in urine following single dose administration and can be detected following a single 50 µg dose for up to 24 h after inhalation. The present findings are of relevance if a urine threshold limit is to be introduced for salmeterol on the list of prohibited substances. The application of an enantiomer ratio analysis may offer improved discriminatory detection capability for doping control analysis applications. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Habitat restoration alters adult butterfly morphology and potential fecundity through effects on host plant quality
Authors: Sivakoff Frances S. , Morris William F. , Aschehoug Erik T. , Hudgens Brian R. , Haddad Nick M.
Published: November 2016

Conservation strategies for threatened species frequently include habitat restoration, but the success of such recovery efforts has been mixed. When the target is an insect herbivore, restoration efforts have traditionally attempted to increase the abundance of its host plant, but these actions' impact on host plant quality has largely been ignored. Here, we test the impact of two forms of habitat restoration, tree removal and stream damming, on the physical and chemical properties of a wetland sedge and on the adult traits of its larval consumer, a wetland butterfly. Tree removal altered plant physical and chemical traits in a manner largely consistent with reduced host plant quality. Females emerging from these plots had fewer mature oocytes in their ovaries upon emergence, suggesting that tree removal has a negative effect on butterfly potential fecundity. Stream damming did not affect plant traits but forewing length increased more steeply with body mass for females from these plots, indicating that small females from dammed plots have a relatively higher wing loading ratio that likely increases the energetic cost of flight. This idea was supported by results from our subsequent capture–mark–recapture study, where both female and male butterflies were less likely to emigrate from dammed plots. Male dispersal was also affected by restoration, but individual body mass rather than wing allometry mediated this effect. Our results highlight the need to consider restoration's impact on host plant quality, in addition to other aspects of habitat quality, when undertaking habitat restoration for threatened herbivores.
Whether disturbances alter salt marsh soil structure dramatically affects Spartina alterniflora recolonization rate
Authors: Sharp Sean J. , Angelini Christine
Published: November 2016

Disturbance regimes are shifting in response to climate change, land‐use change, species' invasions, and other stressors, challenging ecologists to improve understanding of the mechanisms controlling plant recovery under different conditions. In this study, we investigate mechanisms that underpin plant recolonization of two types of disturbance: disturbances that remove standing plant biomass, but leave the underlying soil structure largely intact, and those that remove standing biomass and physically disrupt soil structure. In the southeastern United States, salt marshes, drought and invasive feral hogs (Sus scrofa) are associated with disturbances of these respective types and both leave behind mudflats dotted with patches of cordgrass (Spartina alterniflora), the system's dominant foundation species. To test how disturbance type and remnant patch size may interact to affect cordgrass recolonization, we transplanted replicate cordgrass patches of three sizes into one mudflat that experienced vegetation‐only disturbance (VD) during a recent drought, and a second mudflat where hog activities had disrupted the soil structure creating a soil + vegetation disturbance (soil + VD). Over one year, we monitored plant performance and properties of soil. Compared with the drought‐associated VD where patches, regardless of their size, expanded vigorously, large and medium patches grew little and smaller patches even less in the hog‐associated soil + VD mudflat. Moreover while biogeochemical properties varied little in the VD compared with adjacent vegetated marsh areas, the mudflats with soil + VD had less soil‐binding organic matter and, hence, were too soft to support crab burrows, leading to a reduction in oxygen availability and cordgrass expansion. These results indicate that cordgrass recovery is far faster from disturbances that do not degrade soil structure than those that do and therefore advocate for disturbance‐specific management strategies. Specifically, while transplanting patches is effective in restoring marshes disturbed by drought, wrack, or other factors that leave soil structure intact, preventative measures, like hog population culling, are essential to mitigating the ecological impacts of soil structure‐altering disturbances.
Cyclization of Linear Tetrapeptides Containing N‐Methylated Amino Acids by using 1‐Propanephosphonic Acid Anhydride
Authors: Zhang Shengping , De Leon Rodriguez Luis M. , Lacey Ernest , Piggott Andrew M. , Leung Ivanhoe K. H. , Brimble Margaret A.
Published: November 2016

The cyclization of the linear tetrapeptides sequence H‐NMePhe‐Xaa1‐NMePhe‐Xaa2‐OH (for which Xaa1 = Xaa2 = Ile, Val, or Leu; Xaa1 = Val; Xaa2 = Ile or Leu) by using 1‐propanephosphonic acid anhydride was explored. An unanticipated finding is the cyclization towards cyclotetrapeptide conformers (kinetic products) that were highly prone to hydrolysis and that slowly interconvert into the more stable trans,cis,trans,cis (tctc) conformers (thermodynamic products).
Laws, place, history and the interpretation of landforms
Authors: Phillips Jonathan D.
Published: November 2016

The state of an Earth surface system (ESS) is determined by three sets of factors: laws, place, and history. Laws (L = L1, L2, . . . , Ln) are the n general principles applicable to any such system at any time. Place factors (P = P1, P2, . . . , Pm) are the m relevant characteristics of the local or regional environment. History factors (H = H1 , H2, . . . , Hq) include the previous evolutionary pathway of the ESS, its stage of development, past disturbance, and initial conditions. Geoscience investigation may focus on laws, place, or history, but ultimately all three are necessary to understand and explain ESS. The LPH triad is useful as a pedagogical device, illustrated here via application to explaining the world's longest cave (Mammoth Cave, KY). Beyond providing a useful checklist, the LPH framework provides analytical traction to some difficult research problems. For example, studies of the avulsions of three southeast Texas rivers showed substantial differences in avulsion regimes and resulting alluvial morphology, despite the proximity and superficial similarity of the systems. Avulsions are governed by the same laws in all cases [L(A) = L(B) = L(C)], and the three rivers have undergone the same sea‐level, climate, and tectonic histories, as well as the same general anthropic impacts [H(A) ≈ H(B) ≈ H(C)]. Though regional environmental controls are similar, local details such as the location of the modern main channel relative to Pleistocene meander channels differ, and thus these place factors explain the differences between the rivers. The LPH framework, or similar types of reasoning, is implicit in many types of geoscience analysis. Explicit attention to the triad can help solve or address many specific problems and remind us of the importance of all three sets of factors. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Modelling and Trading the English and German Stock Markets with Novelty Optimization Techniques
Authors: Karathanasopoulos Andreas , Mitra Sovan , Skindilias Konstantinos , Lo Chia Chun
Published: November 2016

The motivation for this paper was the introduction of novel short‐term models to trade the FTSE 100 and DAX 30 exchange‐traded funds (ETF) indices. There are major contributions in this paper which include the introduction of an input selection criterion when utilizing an expansive universe of inputs, a hybrid combination of partial swarm optimizer (PSO) with radial basis function (RBF) neural networks, the application of a PSO algorithm to a traditional autoregressive moving model (ARMA), the application of a PSO algorithm to a higher‐order neural network and, finally, the introduction of a multi‐objective algorithm to optimize statistical and trading performance when trading an index. All the machine learning‐based methodologies and the conventional models are adapted and optimized to model the index. A PSO algorithm is used to optimize the weights in a traditional RBF neural network, in a higher‐order neural network (HONN) and the AR and MA terms of an ARMA model. In terms of checking the statistical and empirical accuracy of the novel models, we benchmark them with a traditional HONN, with an ARMA, with a moving average convergence/divergence model (MACD) and with a naïve strategy. More specifically, the trading and statistical performance of all models is investigated in a forecast simulation of the FTSE 100 and DAX 30 ETF time series over the period January 2004 to December 2015 using the last 3 years for out‐of‐sample testing. Finally, the empirical and statistical results indicate that the PSO‐RBF model outperforms all other examined models in terms of trading accuracy and profitability, even with mixed inputs and with only autoregressive inputs. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Injection risk assessment for intra‐formational seal geological model in a carbon sequestration application in Taiwan
Authors: Yu Chi‐Wen , Lei Shih‐Chang , Chiao Chung‐Hui , Hwang Lian‐Tong , Yang Wan‐Huei , Yang Ming‐Wei
Published: November 2016

As a deep saline aquifer, the Tai‐hsi Foreland Basin in western Taiwan is regarded as an excellent locality to sequester the huge carbon emission from domestic coal‐fired power plants. Existing geological data show that an intra‐formational seal capability characterized by multilayered shale baffles can act as the primary or ultimate cap system. In this study, the relevant ranges of rock parameter of porosity (20∼35%) and permeability (0.0001∼1300 mD), respectively, for the storage layers (sandstone) and seals (shale) have been selected according to large amount of laboratory core test from a nearby pioneering 3000 m drilling and sampling within the southern flank of the Tai‐hsi Basin. Comprehensive geological models considering both homogeneous and heterogeneous cases, and a typical plume migration scenario under a single‐well injection were simulated under a 20‐year continuous injection (1 MtCO2 per year) followed by post‐injection monitoring up to 1000 years. Corresponding 2D maximum horizontal migration distances (MHMD) of CO2 plume in the storage reservoir were calculated with respect to a homogeneous reservoir model and its heterogeneous counterparts. In addition, the induced pressures at critical monitoring points were also evaluated and compared. As a consequence, the ubiquitous shale baffles of intra‐formational seal in a heterogeneous saline aquifers were proven to be a successful trapping mechanism controlling the migration distances of lateral and upward movement. Furthermore, safe carbon storage operation within Tai‐hsi Basin with formation depth range about 2135 to 2450 mRT can be ensured by checking statistically the calculated maximum MHMD and the induced pressure magnitude. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Long‐term clinical impact and cost‐effectiveness of obeticholic acid for the treatment of primary biliary cholangitis
Authors: Samur Sumeyye , Klebanoff Matthew , Banken Reiner , Pratt Daniel S. , Chapman Rick , Ollendorf Daniel A. , Loos Anne M. , Corey Kathleen , Hur Chin , Chhatwal Jagpreet
Published: November 2016

Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is a chronic, progressive autoimmune liver disease that mainly affects middle‐aged women. Obeticholic acid (OCA), which was recently approved by the Food and Drug Administration for PBC treatment, has demonstrated positive effects on biochemical markers of liver function. Our objective was to evaluate the long‐term clinical impact and cost‐effectiveness of OCA as a second‐line treatment for PBC in combination with ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) in adults with an inadequate response to UDCA. We developed a mathematical model to simulate the lifetime course of PBC patients treated with OCA+UDCA versus UDCA alone. Efficacy data were derived from the phase 3 PBC OCA International Study of Efficacy trial, and the natural history of PBC was informed by published clinical studies. Model outcomes were validated using the PBC Global Study. We found that in comparison with UDCA, OCA+UDCA could decrease the 15‐year cumulative incidences of decompensated cirrhosis from 12.2% to 4.5%, hepatocellular carcinoma from 9.1% to 4.0%, liver transplants from 4.5% to 1.2%, and liver‐related deaths from 16.2% to 5.7% and increase 15‐year transplant‐free survival from 61.1% to 72.9%. The lifetime cost of PBC treatment would increase from $63,000 to $902,000 (1,330% increment). The discounted quality‐adjusted life years with UDCA and OCA+UDCA were 10.74 and 11.78, respectively, and the corresponding costs were $142,300 and $633,900, resulting in an incremental cost‐effectiveness ratio of $473,400/quality‐adjusted life year gained. The results were most sensitive to the cost of OCA. Conclusion: OCA is a promising new therapy to substantially improve the long‐term outcomes of PBC patients, but at its current annual price of $69,350, it is not cost‐effective using a willingness‐to‐pay threshold of $100,000/quality‐adjusted life year; pricing below $18,450/year is needed to make OCA cost‐effective. (Hepatology 2017;65:920‐928).
Family members' helping behavior: Alliance formations during naturalistic polyadic conflicts
Authors: Persram Ryan J. , Howe Nina , Della Porta Sandra , Ross Hildy S.
Published: November 2016

The present study investigated the role of alliances in naturalistic polyadic conflicts, which involved at least three family members, through a comparative analysis of parent–child‐ and sibling‐originated conflicts. Thirty‐nine families with two children (aged 4 and 6 years) were observed in the home setting. Transcripts of six 90‐min observational sessions per family resulted in identifying 306 polyadic family sequences; conflict initiators, topic, and resolution, as well as additional party roles (e.g., ally, judge, additional combatant, and mediator), were coded. Findings reveal that despite all family members being involved in polyadic conflicts, children tended to be initiators, while parents were more involved as additional parties. Alliances occurred more often than the other types of additional party roles. Alliance partnerships were most evident between mothers and fathers in parent–child‐originated conflicts, and mothers were more likely to ally with the younger child in sibling‐originated conflicts. Finally, submission was the most common resolution of polyadic conflicts; however, allies were more likely to win conflicts than to compromise or lose. This study highlights the dynamic nature of family conflict at home and is discussed in terms of links between relationships with family members, as well as informal learning of conflict behaviors.

Highlights

Conflicts involving three or more family members occurs quite often at home.

Alliances are a common role that family members assume in conflict, as they try to achieve a favourable outcome for their side.

Children's involvement both as initiators and additional parties highlight their learning of various complex conflict behaviours in childhood.
Transposon mutagenesis identifies candidate genes that cooperate with loss of transforming growth factor‐beta signaling in mouse intestinal neoplasms
Authors: Morris Shelli M. , Davison Jerry , Carter Kelly T. , O'Leary Rachele M. , Trobridge Patty , Knoblaugh Sue E. , Myeroff Lois L. , Markowitz Sanford D. , Brett Benjamin T. , Scheetz Todd E. , Dupuy Adam J. , Starr Timothy K. , Grady William M.
Published: November 2016

Colorectal cancer (CRC) results from the accumulation of gene mutations and epigenetic alterations in colon epithelial cells, which promotes CRC formation through deregulating signaling pathways. One of the most commonly deregulated signaling pathways in CRC is the transforming growth factor β (TGF‐β) pathway. Importantly, the effects of TGF‐β signaling inactivation in CRC are modified by concurrent mutations in the tumor cell, and these concurrent mutations determine the ultimate biological effects of impaired TGF‐β signaling in the tumor. However, many of the mutations that cooperate with the deregulated TGF‐β signaling pathway in CRC remain unknown. Therefore, we sought to identify candidate driver genes that promote the formation of CRC in the setting of TGF‐β signaling inactivation. We performed a forward genetic screen in mice carrying conditionally inactivated alleles of the TGF‐β receptor, type II (Tgfbr2) using Sleeping Beauty (SB) transposon mediated mutagenesis. We used TAPDANCE and Gene‐centric statistical methods to identify common insertion sites (CIS) and, thus, candidate tumor suppressor genes and oncogenes within the tumor genome. CIS analysis of multiple neoplasms from these mice identified many candidate Tgfbr2 cooperating genes and the Wnt/β‐catenin, Hippo and MAPK pathways as the most commonly affected pathways. Importantly, the majority of candidate genes were also found to be mutated in human CRC. The SB transposon system provides an unbiased method to identify Tgfbr2 cooperating genes in mouse CRC that are functionally relevant and that may provide further insight into the pathogenesis of human CRC.
Strategy Evolution in the Total Synthesis of (−)‐Leiodermatolide
Authors: Paterson Ian , Williams Simon
Published: November 2016

This review highlights the various challenges overcome during our recent synthetic campaign towards (−)‐leiodermatolide, a potent cytotoxic and antimitotic macrolide isolated from the marine sponge Leiodermatium sp. This structurally unprecedented macrocyclic chemotype represents a promising lead for anticancer drug discovery, provided a sustainable supply can be realised by an efficient chemical synthesis. Faced with the stereochemical ambiguities arising from our structural assignment work, a flexible and modular synthetic strategy was adopted for the construction of various key fragments, as a prelude to the controlled assembly of the two diene moieties. Installation of the nine stereocentres was achieved by the strategic use of boron‐mediated aldol reactions of chiral ketone building blocks. Following the exploratory construction of the macrocyclic core, we revised our strategy to circumvent some problematic steps, enabling a highly convergent total synthesis of (−)‐leiodermatolide.
Preparation of fluoride‐loaded microcapsules for anticariogenic bacterial growth using a coaxial ultrasonic atomizer
Authors: Choi Hae‐Won , Um Seung‐Hoon , Rhee Sang‐Hoon
Published: November 2016

A new method to deliver fluoride using biodegradable poly(lactic‐co‐glycolic acid) microcapsules to suppress cariogenic bacterial growth during orthodontic treatment was investigated. A coaxial ultrasonic atomizer was used to encapsulate KF solution into microcapsules. The orthodontic adhesive resin disk containing fluoride loaded microcapsules (DFLM) was prepared by LED light curing. The microstructure of microcapsules, successful loading of KF, fracture strength, and shear bonding strength were assessed by FE‐SEM, confocal laser scanning microscope, and general purpose testing machine, respectively. Fluoride release from the DFLM in phosphate buffered saline and pH changes were measured after different periods of soaking time. Antibacterial activity of the DFLM was assessed in tryptic soy broth containing mutant streptococci. The starting inoculum and the orthodontic resin disk containing microcapsules not loaded with KF were used as negative and positive controls, respectively. As results, the cumulative amount of KF after 49 days was about 85% of the initial amount of fluoride contained in the microcapsules. The fracture and shear bonding strengths of the orthodontic resin disks with and without the microcapsules were similar to each other. The DFLM showed lower bacterial growth than the control groups, whereas no statistically significant differences were found between the negative and positive controls. It can be concluded that the microcapsules loaded with fluoride prepared by a coaxial ultrasonic atomizer have good potential for application as an antibacterial agent due to their excellent cariogenic antibacterial activity when incorporated into orthodontic adhesive resin. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 106B: 31–39, 2018.
The combined effect of thermal and chemotherapy on HeLa cells using magnetically actuated smart textured fibrous system
Authors: Tiwari Pranav , Agarwal Sakshi , Srivastava Sachchidanand , Jain Shilpee
Published: November 2016

Thermal therapy combined with chemotherapy is one of the advanced and efficient methods to eradicate cancer. In this work, we fabricated magnetically actuated smart textured (MAST) fibrous systems and studied their candidacy for cancer treatment. The polycaprolactone‐Fe3O4 based MAST fibers were fabricated using electrospinning technique. These MAST fibrous systems contained carbogenic quantum dots as a tracking agent and doxorubicin hydrochloride anticancer drug. Additionally, as fabricated MAST fibrous systems were able to deliver anticancer drug and heat energy simultaneously to kill HeLa cells in a 10 min period in vitro. After treatment, the metabolic activity and morphology of HeLa cells were analyzed. In addition, the mechanism of cell death was studied using flow cytometry. Interestingly, the navigation of these systems in the fluid can be controlled with the application of gradient magnetic field. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 106B: 40–51, 2018.
BRINGING THINGS TOGETHER: DEVELOPING THE SAMPLE SURVEY AS PRACTICE IN THE LATE NINETEENTH CENTURY
Authors: GUNDELACH PETER
Published: November 2016

The first sample surveys in the latter parts of the 19th century were an intellectual social movement. They were motivated by the intention to improve the economic and political conditions of workers. The quantitative survey was considered an ideal because it would present data about the workers as facts, i.e. establish a scientific authoritative truth. In a case study from Denmark, the paper shows how the first survey – a study of seamstresses – was carried out by bringing several cognitive and organizational elements together: a network of researchers, a method for sampling, the construction of a questionnaire, a procedure for coding, and analyzing the data. It was a trial and error process where the researchers lacked relevant concepts and methods but relied on their intuition and on inspiration from abroad.
Shape sensitivity analysis of metallic nano particles
Authors: Sargheini Sahar , Paganini Alberto , Hiptmair Ralf , Hafner Christian
Published: November 2016

Shape sensitivity measures the impact of small perturbations of geometric features of a problem on certain quantities of interest. The shape sensitivity of PDE (partial differential equation) constrained output functionals is derived with the help of shape gradients. In electromagnetic scattering problems, the standard procedure of the Lagrangian approach cannot be applied because of solution of the state problem is complex valued. We derive a closed‐form formula of the shape gradient of a generic output functional constrained by Maxwell's equations. We employ cubic B‐splines to model local deformations of the geometry and derive sensitivity probings over the surface of the scatterer. We also define a sensitivity representative function over the surface of the scatterer on the basis of local sensitivity measurements. Several numerical experiments are conducted to investigate the shape sensitivity of different output functionals for different geometric settings.
Fast optimization of quasi‐periodic slow‐wave structures with applications to broadband microwave coupler miniaturization
Authors: Kurgan Piotr , Koziel Slawomir
Published: November 2016

This work discusses design optimization of quasi‐periodic slow‐wave structures in the context of wideband branch‐line coupler miniaturization. Size reduction is achieved by using slow‐wave structures as substitutes for conventional transmission lines of the reference circuit. Selection of a specific cell realization as well as determination of a repetition factor of the quasi‐periodic slow‐wave structure is accomplished by optimization‐based theoretical studies. The principal design procedure involves cell optimization using electromagnetic simulations, local response surface approximation modeling of the single cell, and surrogate‐based optimization of the slow‐wave structure composed of cascaded cell approximation models. Surrogate‐assisted design closure is subsequently applied to account for T‐junction effects neglected in the preceding stages of the design process. The final coupler exhibits high‐performance operation over a 31% bandwidth and occupies only one third of the reference circuit area. The component obtained in this work illustrates the highest bandwidth‐to‐size ratio as compared to state‐of‐the‐art structures reported in the literature. In addition, the feasibility of the approach is confirmed by experimental data.
Sex differences in social cognition: The case of face processing
Authors: Proverbio Alice Mado
Published: November 2016

Several studies have demonstrated that women show a greater interest for social information and empathic attitude than men. This article reviews studies on sex differences in the brain, with particular reference to how males and females process faces and facial expressions, social interactions, pain of others, infant faces, faces in things (pareidolia phenomenon), opposite‐sex faces, humans vs. landscapes, incongruent behavior, motor actions, biological motion, erotic pictures, and emotional information. Sex differences in oxytocin‐based attachment response and emotional memory are also mentioned. In addition, we investigated how 400 different human faces were evaluated for arousal and valence dimensions by a group of healthy male and female University students. Stimuli were carefully balanced for sensory and perceptual characteristics, age, facial expression, and sex. As a whole, women judged all human faces as more positive and more arousing than men. Furthermore, they showed a preference for the faces of children and the elderly in the arousal evaluation. Regardless of face aesthetics, age, or facial expression, women rated human faces higher than men. The preference for opposite‐ vs. same‐sex faces strongly interacted with facial age. Overall, both women and men exhibited differences in facial processing that could be interpreted in the light of evolutionary psychobiology. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Sex differences in the adolescent brain and body: Findings from the saguenay youth study
Authors: Paus Tomáš , Wong Angelita Pui‐Yee , Syme Catriona , Pausova Zdenka
Published: November 2016

This Mini‐Review describes sex differences in 66 quantitative characteristics of the brain and body measured in a community‐based sample of 1,024 adolescents 12–18 years of age, members of the Saguenay Youth Study. Using an extensive phenotyping protocol, we have obtained measures in a number of domains, including brain structure, cognition, mental health, substance use, body composition, metabolism, cardiovascular reactivity, and life style. For each measure, we provide estimates of effect size (Cohen's d) and sex‐specific correlations with age (Pearson R). In total 59 of the 66 characteristics showed sex differences (at a nominal P < 0.05), with small (32), medium‐sized (13), and large (11) effects. Some, but not all, of these sex differences increase during adolescence; this appears to be the case mostly for anatomical and physiological measures. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Sex‐dependent effects of nicotine on the developing brain
Authors: Cross Sarah J. , Linker Kay E. , Leslie Frances M.
Published: November 2016

The use of tobacco products represents a major public health concern, especially among women. Epidemiological data have consistently demonstrated that women have less success quitting tobacco use and a higher risk for developing tobacco‐related diseases. The deleterious effects of nicotine are not restricted to adulthood, as nicotinic acetylcholine receptors regulate critical aspects of neural development. However, the exact mechanisms underlying the particular sensitivity of women to develop tobacco dependence have not been well elucidated. In this mini‐review, we show that gonadal hormone‐mediated sexual differentiation of the brain may be an important determinant of sex differences in the effects of nicotine. We highlight direct interactions between sex steroid hormones and ligand‐gated ion channels critical for brain maturation, and discuss the extended and profound sexual differentiation of the brain. We emphasize that nicotine exposure during the perinatal and adolescent periods interferes with normal sexual differentiation and can induce long‐lasting, sex‐dependent alterations in neuronal structure, cognitive and executive function, learning and memory, and reward processing. We stress important age and sex differences in nicotine's effects and emphasize the importance of including these factors in preclinical research that models tobacco dependence. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Sex differences in brain‐derived neurotrophic factor signaling: Functions and implications
Authors: Wei Yi‐Chao , Wang Shao‐Ran , Xu Xiao‐Hong
Published: November 2016

Brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) regulates diverse processes such as neuronal survival, differentiation, and plasticity. Accumulating evidence suggests that molecular events that direct sexual differentiation of the brain interact with BDNF signaling pathways. This Mini‐Review first examines potential hormonal and epigenetic mechanisms through which sex influences BDNF signaling. We then examine how sex‐specific regulation of BDNF signaling supports the development and function of sexually dimorphic neural circuits that underlie male‐specific genital reflexes in rats and song production in birds. Finally, we discuss the implications of sex differences in BDNF signaling for gender‐biased presentation of neurological and psychiatric diseases such as Alzheimer's disease. Although this Mini‐Review focuses on BDNF, we try to convey the general message that sex influences brain functions in complex ways and underscore the requirement for and challenge of expanding research on sex differences in neuroscience. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The importance of studying sex differences in disease: The example of multiple sclerosis
Authors: Golden Lisa C. , Voskuhl Rhonda
Published: November 2016

To date, scientific research has often focused on one sex, with assumptions that study of the other sex would yield similar results. However, many diseases affect males and females differently. The sex of a patient can affect the risk for both disease susceptibility and progression. Such differences can be brought to the laboratory bench to be investigated, potentially bringing new treatments back to the clinic. This method of research, known as a “bedside to bench to bedside” approach, has been applied to studying sex differences in multiple sclerosis (MS). Females have greater susceptibly to MS, while males have worse disease progression. These two characteristics of the disease are influenced by the immune system and the nervous system, respectively. Thus, sex differences in each system must be studied. Personalized medicine has been at the forefront of research recently, and studying sex differences in disease fits with this initiative. This review will discuss the known sex differences in MS and highlight how investigating them can lead to new insights and potential treatments for both men and women. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Sex‐specific effects of the Huntington gene on normal neurodevelopment
Authors: Lee Jessica K. , Ding Yue , Conrad Amy L. , Cattaneo Elena , Epping Eric , Mathews Kathy , Gonzalez‐Alegre Pedro , Cahill Larry , Magnotta Vincent , Schlaggar Bradley L. , Perlmutter Joel S. , Kim Regina E.Y. , Dawson Jeffrey D. , Nopoulos Peg
Published: November 2016

Huntington disease is a neurodegenerative disorder caused by a gene (HTT) with a unique feature of trinucleotide repeats ranging from 10 to 35 in healthy people; when expanded beyond 39 repeats, Huntington disease develops. Animal models demonstrate that HTT is vital to brain development; however, this has not been studied in humans. Moreover, evidence suggests that triplet repeat genes may have been vital in evolution of the human brain.

Here we evaluate brain structure using magnetic resonance imaging and brain function using cognitive tests in a sample of school‐aged children ages 6 to 18 years old. DNA samples were processed to quantify the number of CAG repeats within HTT. We find that the number of repeats in HTT, below disease threshold, confers advantageous changes in brain structure and general intelligence (IQ): the higher the number of repeats, the greater the change in brain structure, and the higher the IQ. The pattern of structural brain changes associated with HTT is strikingly different between males and females.

HTT may confer an advantage or a disadvantage depending on the repeat length, playing a key role in either the evolution of a superior human brain or development of a uniquely human brain disease. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Implications of future climate on water availability in the western Canadian river basins
Authors: Dibike Yonas , Prowse Terry , Bonsal Barrie , O'Neil Hayley
Published: November 2016

Precipitation, temperature, and evaporative demand are the most dominant factors affecting water availability in a region. This study examines projected changes in these hydro‐climatic variables over western Canada under two greenhouse gas emissions scenarios using statistically downscaled, high resolution climate data generated by six Global Climate Models (GCMs) from the latest Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP5). Potential changes in the spatial and seasonal distributions of water availability over nine major western Canadian river basins are examined by computing the 3‐ and 12‐month standardized precipitation and evapotranspiration indices (SPEI‐3 and SPEI‐12). While individual GCM projections vary on the rate and seasonality of changes, they all indicate similar spatial and temporal patterns. The highest projected increases in precipitation and temperature are primarily in the northern basins, with some decreases in summer precipitation in the southern basins. The evolution of the SPEI‐12 values for the southern basins such as Columbia, Saskatchewan, Fraser and Athabasca indicate a gradual increase in the magnitude and duration of water deficit, while the reverse was found for most of the northern basins such as Peel/Lower Mackenzie, Liard, and Northern Pacific that show a gradual increase in water surplus on an annual basis. The SPEI‐3, however, shows that almost all river basins in western Canada, with the exception of Peel/Lower Mackenzie that are located in the extreme north of the study region, are projected to experience decreasing water availability in summer. In general, the study highlights the potential changes in the spatial and seasonal distribution of western Canadian water resources and sets the stage for a more detailed and process based hydro‐climate modelling study to be conducted in the region.
Land‐use related changes to sedimentary organic matter in tidal creeks of the northern Gulf of Mexico
Authors: Darrow Elizabeth S. , Carmichael Ruth H. , Calci Kevin R. , Burkhardt William
Published: November 2016

Effects of land use on hydrology, organic matter sources, and processing may be proportionately greater in tidal creeks than large estuaries, yet tidal creek systems have been undervalued in assessments of emerging effects of anthropogenic land use. Through sampling of dated sediment cores, we identified indicators of historical land use change (past 150 yr) in a microtidal northern Gulf of Mexico tidal creek system in the early stages of urbanization. We found that tidal creeks differed from open water sites, and urbanized sites differed from less altered sites, primarily due to changes in carbon sources indicated by differences in sediment stable carbon isotope (δ13C) values, and concentrations of fecal indicator bacterium Clostridium perfringens. Total organic carbon (%TOC) and carbon : nitrogen (C : N) increased twofold in tidal creeks during upstream urbanization in the early 20th century, which led to elevated mid‐century sediment TOC accumulation rates (5–10 mg C cm−2 yr−1), followed by decreases in TOC accumulation in tidal creeks and open waters since the 1960s (0.4–1.8 mg C cm−2 yr−1). C. perfringens and nitrogen stable isotope values (δ15N) were, respectively, 1.8 and 1.5 times higher at wastewater‐influenced sites than at other sites, increasing through time or remaining high at wastewater‐influenced sites from approximately the 1950s‐present, when human populations quadrupled. Hence, urbanization altered estuarine inputs from upland C sources and increased inputs from human‐derived N and microbes. These findings suggest that tidal creeks are more sensitive archives of land‐use change than open water systems due to their proximity and greater connectivity to the watershed.
Dissolved methane in the Beaufort Sea and the Arctic Ocean, 1992–2009; sources and atmospheric flux
Authors: Lorenson Thomas D. , Greinert Jens , Coffin Richard B.
Published: November 2016

Methane concentration and isotopic composition was measured in ice‐covered and ice‐free waters of the Arctic Ocean during 11 surveys spanning the years of 1992–1995 and 2009. During ice‐free periods, methane flux from the Beaufort shelf varies from 0.14 mg CH4 m−2 d−1 to 0.43 mg CH4 m−2 d−1. Maximum fluxes from localized areas of high methane concentration are up to 1.52 mg CH4 m−2 d−1. Seasonal buildup of methane under ice can produce short‐term fluxes of methane from the Beaufort shelf that varies from 0.28 mg CH4 m−2 d−1 to 1.01 mg CH4 m−2 d−1. Scaled‐up estimates of minimum methane flux from the Beaufort Sea and pan‐Arctic shelf for both ice‐free and ice‐covered periods range from 0.02 Tg CH4 yr−1 and 0.30 Tg CH4 yr−1, respectively to maximum fluxes of 0.18 Tg CH4 yr−1 and 2.2 Tg CH4 yr−1, respectively. A methane flux of 0.36 Tg CH4 yr−1 from the deep Arctic Ocean was estimated using data from 1993 to 1994. The flux can be as much as 2.35 Tg CH4 yr−1 estimated from maximum methane concentrations and wind speeds of 12 m/s, representing only 0.42% of the annual atmospheric methane budget of ∼ 560 Tg CH4 yr−1. There were no significant changes in methane fluxes during the time period of this study. Microbial methane sources predominate with minor influxes from thermogenic methane offshore Prudhoe Bay and the Mackenzie River delta and may include methane from gas hydrate. Methane oxidation is locally important on the shelf and is a methane sink in the deep Arctic Ocean.
Thioether‐Bearing Hyperbranched Polyether Polyols with Methionine‐Like Side‐Chains: A Versatile Platform for Orthogonal Functionalization
Authors: Seiwert Jan , Herzberger Jana , Leibig Daniel , Frey Holger
Published: November 2016

The synthesis of thioether‐bearing hyperbranched polyether polyols based on an AB/AB2 type copolymerization (cyclic latent monomers) is introduced. The polymers are prepared by anionic ring‐opening multibranching copolymerization of glycidol and 2‐(methylthio)ethyl glycidyl ether (MTEGE), which is conveniently accessible in a single etherification step. Slow monomer addition provides control over molecular weights. Moderate dispersities (Đ = 1.48–1.85) are obtained, given the hyperbranched structure. In situ 1H NMR copolymerization kinetics reveal reactivity ratios of rG = 3.7 and rMTEGE = 0.27. Using slow monomer addition, copolymer composition can be systematically varied, allowing for the adjustment of the hydroxyl/thioether ratio, the degree of branching (DB = 0.36–0.48), thermal properties, and cloud point temperatures in aqueous solution in the range of 29–75 °C. Thioether oxidation to sulfoxides enables to tailor the copolymers' solubility profile. Use of these copolymers as a versatile, multifunctional platform for orthogonal modification is highlighted. The methyl sulfide groups can be selectively alkoxylated, using propylene oxide, allyl glycidyl ether, or furfuryl glycidyl ether, resulting in functional hyperbranched polyelectrolytes. Reaction of the alcohol groups with benzyl isocyanate demonstrates successful orthogonal functionalization.

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