bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
R&D Spending & Success: Key Trends, Issues & Solutions
Authors: Rao Sanjay Kumar
Published: August 2017

Debates about rising bio/pharmaceutical prices are often predicated on the presumption that higher product prices are necessary for continuing funding of innovation. Recent trends only partially bear this out. While total spending on bio/pharmaceutical R&D has largely remained constant, costs for clinical trials have consumed a rising proportion of R&D budgets. More spending on clinical trials, however, has not yielded higher trial success rates. Prior to product launch, clinical trials take up most of the financial resources attributed to a product in development, costing on average $75-$100M. While completing a full cycle of pre-clinical and clinical trials can take an average of 7.5 years, the probability of successful filing for marketing a drug after clinical trial testing has never exceeded 13-20%, despite advances in trial design and testing processes.This article discusses key trends in R&D spending and productivity. It then lays out issues that prevent clinical trials from achieving higher success, and presents operational and strategic solutions that can be implemented to improve the effectiveness of increases in R&D spending.
Successful Strategies for Diagnostic Method Patents
Authors: Miller Alan Douglas , Amos Brian
Published: August 2017

This article addresses strategies used to obtain patent protection for diagnostic method patents after the 2012 Mayo decision by the U.S. Supreme Court.
A Biotechnology Dilemma: Patent Your Inventions (if you can) or Keep Them Secret
Authors: Smith Craig Robert
Published: August 2017

Biotechnology companies rely on patents to protect their most valuable inventions.  Patent protection helps support billions of dollars in research and development of life-saving drugs and treatments.  Protecting biotechnology inventions has become more difficult in the last few years, however, because legal trends have created uncertainty regarding what subject matter is eligible for patent protection.  Specifically, courts have narrowed the scope of what is patentable and have increasingly invalidated patents because they claim abstract ideas or laws of nature.  As biotechnology companies wait for more clarity on the scope of patentable subject matter, they face a dilemma of whether to patent their inventions or keep them secret.  Keeping inventions secret offers some benefits to companies, but may not be sufficient to protect the significant investment made in research and development.  The biotechnology industry will continue to grapple with this dilemma until the courts, the Patent Office or new legislation clarifies the boundaries of what subject matter is patentable.
Depressive symptomatology, attachment style, job insecurity and burnout of civil servants in the Greek economic crisis
Authors: Grigoriadou Maria , Kleftaras George
Published: August 2017

The purpose of the present study was to investigate the depressive symptomatology of civil servants in contemporary Greek society undergoing severe turmoil because of the profound economic crisis. More specifically, the study aimed at evaluating the severity of depression in this population in relation to attachment style, job insecurity and the three dimensions of burnout. The sample of the present study consisted of 207 employees working in Municipalities or Civil Services. Self-report questionnaires on depressive symptomatology, attachment style, job insecurity and burnout were distributed. According to the results, 38.20% of the sample indicated mild or severe depressive symptomatology. The hypothesis of significant correlations among depressive symptomatology, job insecurity and the dimensions of burnout were confirmed. Results also indicated significant correlations between depressive symptomatology and attachment styles involving a negative self model. Implications for counseling are discussed.
From militant voices to militant irony: Examining identity, memory and conflict in the Basque country
Authors: Brescó de Luna Ignacio
Published: August 2017

Collective memory and identity so often go hand in hand with conflicts. Alongside the use of violence, conflicts unfold against the backdrop of different narratives about the past through which groups constantly remind themselves of the supposed origin of the conflict, and consequently, what position individuals are expected to take as members of the group. Narratives – as symbolic tools for interpreting the past and the present, as well as happenings that have yet to occur – simultaneously underpin, and are underpinned by, the position held by each warring faction. Drawing on previous works, this paper compares different versions of the 2016 truce period in the Basque Country stemming from three subjects identified, to varying degrees, with the main political actors involved in that conflict. These three cases have been selected from a total of 16 participants who were asked to define the Basque conflict and to provide an account of the 2006 truce period by using 23 documents taken from different Spanish newspapers. On the one hand, the results show two narratives reproducing the versions of two of the main political actors involved in the conflict, and on the other hand, a narrative characterized by a more personal and ironic appropriation of those versions. Results are discussed vis-à-vis the use of irony in history teaching in increasingly plural societies.
The effectiveness of a parent-training program for promoting cognitive performance in preschool children
Authors: Vahidi Elahe , Aminyazdi Amir , Kareshki Hossein
Published: August 2017

The study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a parent training program for promoting cognitive performance of young children through enriching the parent-child interactions among mothers of preschool-aged children in Mashhad, Iran. A total of 29 couples of mothers and their children were assigned to an experimental group (n = 16 couples) and a control group (n = 13 couples). Mothers in the experimental group participated in 12 weekly sessions and were trained how to enrich their daily parent-child interactions as such. Children’s cognitive performance was assessed by three subscales of the Wechsler Preschool and Primary Scale of Intelligence (WPPSI). The results of the analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) indicated a significant difference between the experimental and control group. The findings support the effectiveness of the parent training program for enhancing cognitive performance in preschoolers.
Measuring teacher job satisfaction: Assessing invariance in the Teacher Job Satisfaction Scale (TJSS) across six countries
Authors: Pepe Alessandro , Addimando Loredana , Veronese Guido
Published: August 2017

Work and organizational psychology has long been concerned with measuring job satisfaction in organizational contexts, and this has carried across to the field of education, leading to a research focus on the work-related satisfaction of teachers. Today, a myriad of organizations continue to assess employees’ job satisfaction on a routine basis (Liu, Borg, & Spector, 2004). Unfortunately, a sort of balkanization of the field has resulted in the production of dozens of specific measurement tools, making it difficult to cross-compare samples and contexts. The present paper tested the measurement invariance of the Teacher Job Satisfaction Scale (TJSS) in six international cohorts (Netherlands, United States, Russia China, Italy and Palestine) of in-service teachers (N = 2,819). Confirmatory factor analysis and multi-group invariance tests were applied. The TJSS-9 displayed robust psychometric proprieties and no substantial departures from measurement invariance (configural and metric). Future research is required to further test equivalence across additional countries, with view to developing a truly international tool for measuring job satisfaction in teaching.
Planning Improves Distribution System Event Response
Authors: Platten William E. , Boozarpour Manouchehr
Published: August 2017

A distribution system water quality event requires a utility to protect public health while determining what happened and how to fix the problem. Planning for potential events can save valuable time during an event with swift response that limits consequences to your utility's customers and system.
Master the Human Factor in Public Communications
Authors: Friedman Karen
Published: August 2017

For nearly two decades, our communications firm has been working closely with the Philadelphia Water Department on a host of complex public communication issues. Our work includes message development and delivery sessions with engineers and scientists on technical issues such as pharmaceuticals in water, cyanobacterial toxins, disinfection by‐products, and microplastics. As a former televesion news reporter, I can tell you these terms alone are too technical for most people to understand.
Actes à poser en contexte interculturel : quelle place pour l’intervention?
Authors: White Bob W. , Gratton Danielle , Agbobli Christian
Published: August 2017

Nous proposons un cadre théorique qui porte sur l’acte à poser en contexte pluriethnique, et ce, sous toutes ses formes : donner une information ou en obtenir une, donner un soin ou en recevoir un, enseigner ou se faire enseigner. Dans un sens plus large, l’agir s’imagine et se réalise selon le modèle de ses propres traditions ou selon celles de l’autre. Notre cadre invite à concevoir l’acte à poser dans les rencontres interculturelles d’un point de vue épistémologique, en nous forçant à tenir compte de la subtilité des pratiques qui s’inscrivent forcément dans un cadre institutionnel, méthodologique, organisationnel et déontologique. Ce collectif a ainsi pour thème les manifestations empiriques de l’interculturel, avec une attention particulière aux dynamiques d’interaction dans différents contextes d’intervention. On y analyse notamment les conditions de reproduction de la discrimination qui mène à l’exclusion des minorités ethniques et visibles en contexte d’immigration.
L’atelier de situations interculturelles : une méthodologie pour comprendre l’acte à poser en contexte pluriethnique
Authors: White Bob W. , Gratton Danielle
Published: August 2017

Depuis une dizaine d’années, une série d’évènements donnent l’impression que le Québec cherche à mieux définir son modèle d’intégration basé sur la notion d’interculturalisme. Mais comment définir l’approche interculturelle et comment savoir si elle favorise véritablement l’inclusion des nouveaux arrivants ? Dans le cadre du partenariat de recherche « Vers une ville interculturelle » nous avons organisé une série d’ateliers pratiques afin de faciliter la mise en commun de ce que les différents acteurs du milieu urbain voient comme situations interculturelles problématiques. Les « ateliers de situations interculturelles » ont donné des réponses préliminaires aux trois questions suivantes : 1) Quelles situations problématiques voyons-nous sur le terrain ? 2) Quels outils sont à notre portée pour répondre à ces situations ? 3) Sur quels cadres d’analyse nous appuyons-nous pour orienter nos actions ? Pendant cet atelier, qui a été organisé dans différents milieux professionnels et institutionnels, les participants ont travaillé en équipe afin d’identifier et d’analyser un nombre limité de situations qui proviennent de leurs milieux d’intervention respectifs. Les résultats préliminaires des ateliers démontrent la difficulté de distinguer entre les situations interculturelles et les préoccupations par rapport aux situations, mais aussi la difficulté de la centration sur les normes et les valeurs de la société d’accueil. L’analyse de plusieurs contextes d’intervention fait ressortir les différences individuelles et organisationnelles et démontre, entre autres, que les intervenants sont souvent pris entre les exigences contradictoires du multiculturalisme et de l’interculturalisme.
Réimaginer la rencontre : utilisation du concept de contre-transfert culturel au retour d’une expérience d’expatriation
Authors: Bruno Francesca , Kouassi Kouakou , Moro Marie-Rose , Bernard Dominique
Published: August 2017

Dans ce travail, l’intérêt du concept de contre-transfert culturel est mis en évidence à travers l’analyse d'une expérience d’expatriation en tant que psychologue dans une ONG locale au Cameroun. Pour cela, différents éléments du contre-transfert ont été distingués en fonction des types de rencontres : avec l’ONG d’une part, le groupe des destinataires de l’intervention d’autre part et avec chacun des participants rencontrés individuellement. L’analyse de la préparation de la mission, en matière de pré-contre-transfert, a permis d’apprécier le rôle important des motivations personnelles et d'autres éléments spécifiques. En outre, le vécu de cette expérience révèle des dynamiques transféro-contre-transférentielles liées aux mondes culturels, historiques et politiques de chacun pouvant modifier la rencontre. C’est par cette analyse approfondie que se révèle l’altérité, alors même qu’en situation d’expatriation les professionnels sont peu préparés à cette reconnaissance. En assemblant tous ces éléments, il est possible au professionnel, à son retour, d’intégrer l’intensité et la complexité d’une telle expérience dans son histoire personnelle et professionnelle et de les transmettre à tous ceux qui s’engagent dans un projet de solidarité internationale.
Dynamics of BMP signaling and distribution during zebrafish dorsal-ventral patterning
Authors: Pomreinke Autumn P , Soh Gary H , Rogers Katherine W , Bergmann Jennifer K , Bläßle Alexander J , Müller Patrick
Published: August 2017

During vertebrate embryogenesis, dorsal-ventral patterning is controlled by the BMP/Chordin activator/inhibitor system. BMP induces ventral fates, whereas Chordin inhibits BMP signaling on the dorsal side. Several theories can explain how the distributions of BMP and Chordin are regulated to achieve patterning, but the assumptions regarding activator/inhibitor diffusion and stability differ between models. Notably, ‘shuttling’ models in which the BMP distribution is modulated by a Chordin-mediated increase in BMP diffusivity have gained recent prominence. Here, we directly test five major models by measuring the biophysical properties of fluorescently tagged BMP2b and Chordin in zebrafish embryos. We found that BMP2b and Chordin diffuse and rapidly form extracellular protein gradients, Chordin does not modulate the diffusivity or distribution of BMP2b, and Chordin is not required to establish peak levels of BMP signaling. Our findings challenge current self-regulating reaction-diffusion and shuttling models and provide support for a graded source-sink mechanism underlying zebrafish dorsal-ventral patterning.
A quantitative theory of gamma synchronization in macaque V1
Authors: Lowet Eric , Roberts Mark J , Peter Alina , Gips Bart , De Weerd Peter
Published: August 2017

Gamma-band synchronization coordinates brief periods of excitability in oscillating neuronal populations to optimize information transmission during sensation and cognition. Commonly, a stable, shared frequency over time is considered a condition for functional neural synchronization. Here, we demonstrate the opposite: instantaneous frequency modulations are critical to regulate phase relations and synchronization. In monkey visual area V1, nearby local populations driven by different visual stimulation showed different gamma frequencies. When similar enough, these frequencies continually attracted and repulsed each other, which enabled preferred phase relations to be maintained in periods of minimized frequency difference. Crucially, the precise dynamics of frequencies and phases across a wide range of stimulus conditions was predicted from a physics theory that describes how weakly coupled oscillators influence each other’s phase relations. Hence, the fundamental mathematical principle of synchronization through instantaneous frequency modulations applies to gamma in V1 and is likely generalizable to other brain regions and rhythms.
Cation selectivity of the presequence translocase channel Tim23 is crucial for efficient protein import
Authors: Denkert Niels , Schendzielorz Alexander Benjamin , Barbot Mariam , Versemann Lennart , Richter Frank , Rehling Peter , Meinecke Michael
Published: August 2017

Virtually all mitochondrial matrix proteins and a considerable number of inner membrane proteins carry a positively charged, N-terminal presequence and are imported by the TIM23 complex (presequence translocase) located in the inner mitochondrial membrane. The voltage-regulated Tim23 channel constitutes the actual protein-import pore wide enough to allow the passage of polypeptides with a secondary structure. In this study, we identify amino acids important for the cation selectivity of Tim23. Structure based mutants show that selectivity is provided by highly conserved, pore-lining amino acids. Mutations of these amino acid residues lead to reduced selectivity properties, reduced protein import capacity and they render the Tim23 channel insensitive to substrates. We thus show that the cation selectivity of the Tim23 channel is a key feature for substrate recognition and efficient protein import.
Intraclutch eggshell colour variation in birds: are females able to identify their eggs individually?
Authors: Poláček Miroslav , Bartíková Michaela , Hoi Herbert
Published: August 2017

Background

One possibility suggested regarding female post-mating strategies is differential allocation into offspring investment. Female birds produce not only the largest, but also most colourful eggs of all oviparous taxa. Larger eggs provide space for bigger embryos, or more nutrition for their development, but the question why eggs are more colourful and why there is variation in eggshell colouration remains. In this context, the focus of interest has been to explain inter-clutch variation but in many bird species, eggshell colouration also varies within a clutch. Surprisingly, less attention has been paid to this phenomenon. Therefore, we propose the “female egg recognition” hypothesis, suggesting that mothers use colour characteristics to interpret egg attributes and allocate further investment into each egg accordingly. To evaluate the feasibility of the hypothesis, we tested several underlying predictions and examined their suitability using a dataset from our tree sparrow (Passer montanus) study. We predict (i) substantial within-clutch variation in eggshell colouration which, (ii) should be related to laying sequence, (iii) reflect egg quality and, (iv) should stimulate a female response.

Methods

Eggshell coloration data were obtained via digital photography under standardized conditions, taken after clutch completion. Lightness (L*), representing the achromatic properties of an egg has been chosen as the most important predictor in dark cavities and was related to egg quality and position in the nest.

Results

In our tree sparrows, first and mainly last eggs were less pigmented, providing information about laying order. Egg volume, which predicts chick quality, positively correlates with eggshell coloration. Finally, we could show that female tree sparrows placed darker, but not bigger, eggs into more central incubation positions.

Discussion

All basic prerequisites for the “female egg recognition” hypothesis are fulfilled. In this context practicability and feasibility of the hypothesis and alternative explanations are discussed. However future work is necessary to determine a direct effect on offspring condition.
Closing the Mental Health Gap: The Long and Winding Road?
Authors: Bartram Mary , Lurie Steve
Published: August 2017

With 5 billion dollars in new federal funding to improve access to mental health services set to roll out over the next 10 years, a window of opportunity has opened to begin to close the long-standing gap in mental health funding in Canada. Public spending on mental health in Canada is only 7% of public spending on health overall (Jacobs et al., 2010), well short of the 9% called for in the Changing Directions, Changing Lives: The Mental Health Strategy for Canada (MHCC, 2012). This percentage is also well short of the disease burden comprised by mental illnesses, which ranges from 13% globally (WHO, 2011) to 23% in the UK (OECD, 2014). By comparison, recent figures from the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD, 2014) indicate that some countries devote as much as 18% of their health spending to mental health, with the UK sitting at 13%. Even with new targeted federal funding, closing, or at least narrowing, this gap will require careful attention to lessons learned in the past. This article explores how the gap in mental health funding came about in Canada and provides a more detailed analysis of the size of the gap itself. While it is now clear that the federal government will introduce a transfer that is directly targeted to mental health, there are still many policy options to consider for moving forward with next steps, including provincial/territorial contributions, accountability mechanisms, outcome measures, the insurance/financing model, and how tightly eligible expenses are tied to specific initiatives, population groups, or levels of evidence.
Intentionally flawed manuscripts as means for teaching students to critically evaluate scientific papers
Authors: Ferenc Jaroslav , Červenák Filip , Birčák Erik , Juríková Katarína , Goffová Ivana , Gorilák Peter , Huraiová Barbora , Plavá Jana , Demecsová Loriana , Ďuríková Nikola , Galisová Veronika , Gazdarica Matej , Puškár Marek , Nagy Tibor , Nagyová Soňa , Mentelová Lucia , Slaninová Miroslava , Ševčovicová Andrea , Tomáška Ľubomír
Published: August 2017

As future scientists, university students need to learn how to avoid making errors in their own manuscripts, as well as how to identify flaws in papers published by their peers. Here we describe a novel approach on how to promote students' ability to critically evaluate scientific articles. The exercise is based on instructing teams of students to write intentionally flawed manuscripts describing the results of simple experiments. The teams are supervised by instructors advising the students during manuscript writing, choosing the ‘appropriate’ errors, monitoring the identification of errors made by the other team and evaluating the strength of their arguments in support of the identified errors. We have compared the effectiveness of the method with a journal club‐type seminar. Based on the results of our assessment we propose that the described seminar may effectively complement the existing approaches to teach critical scientific thinking. © 2017 by The International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, 46(1):22–30, 2018.
NCN‐Coordinating Ligands based on Pyrene Structure with Potential Application in Organic Electronics
Authors: Zych Dawid , Kurpanik Aneta , Slodek Aneta , Maroń Anna , Pająk Michał , Szafraniec‐Gorol Grażyna , Matussek Marek , Krompiec Stanisław , Schab‐Balcerzak Ewa , Kotowicz Sonia , Siwy Mariola , Smolarek Karolina , Maćkowski Sebastian , Danikiewicz Witold
Published: August 2017

Five novel derivatives of pyrene, substituted at positions 1,3,6,8 with 4‐(2,2‐dimethylpropyloxy)pyridine (P1), 4‐decyloxypyridine (P2), 4‐pentylpyridine (P3), 1‐decyl‐1,2,3‐triazole (P4), and 1‐benzyl‐1,2,3‐triazole (P5), are obtained through a Suzuki–Miyaura cross‐coupling reaction or CuI‐catalyzed 1,3‐dipolar cycloaddition reaction, respectively, and characterized thoroughly. TGA measurements reveal the high thermal stability of the compounds. Pyrene derivatives P1–P5 all show photoluminescence (PL) quantum yields (Φ) of approximately 75 % in solution. Solid‐state photo‐ and electroluminescence characteristics of selected compounds as organic light‐emitting diodes are tested. In the guest–host configuration, two matrixes, that is, poly(N‐vinylcarbazole) (PVK) and a binary matrix consisting of PVK and 2‐tert‐butylphenyl‐5‐biphenyl‐1,3,4‐oxadiazole (PBD) (50:50 wt %), are applied. The diodes show red, green, or blue electroluminescence, depending on both the compound chemical structure and the actual device architecture. In addition, theoretical studies (DFT and TD‐DFT) provide a deeper understanding of the experimental results.
Alkyl Triarylstannanecarbodithioates: Synthesis, Crystal Structures, and Efficiency in RAFT Polymerization
Authors: Kulai Ihor , Saffon‐Merceron Nathalie , Voitenko Zoia , Mazières Stéphane , Destarac Mathias
Published: August 2017

Eight alkyl triarylstannanecarbodithioates were synthesized starting from the corresponding triarylstannyl chlorides. They were fully characterized by IR and 1H, 13C, and 119Sn NMR spectroscopy and mass spectrometry. Their solid‐state structures and geometric parameters were determined and compared to those of other classes of thiocarbonylthio compounds. These new organotin derivatives are efficient reversible chain‐transfer agents for reversible addition–fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization of styrene (St) and n‐butyl acrylate (BA), with controlled number‐average molecular weights and narrow dispersities (Ð<1.3). In some cases, loss of control of the polymerization was evidenced and supported by the observation of side products by 119Sn NMR spectroscopy. This phenomenon was attributed to the thermal instability of the Sn‐RAFT terminal group.
Integrated Human Factors Views in the Unified Architecture Framework
Authors: Hause Matthew , Wilson Matthew
Published: August 2017

Human beings are integral to today's complex systems of systems. Human behaviour, interactions, abilities, complexity, and limitations will have a dramatic effect on the successful realization of system capabilities. Therefore the human factors considerations need to be evaluated in conjunction with the overall systems engineering. Systems engineers need to address them upfront and throughout the system life cycle resulting in effective Human Systems Integration (HSI). Systems engineers are increasingly using Model Based System Engineering (MBSE) techniques to define systems requirements, behaviour, structure, interactions, etc. Typical architecture notations are the Systems Modeling Language (SysML) for modelling systems and the Unified Modeling Language (UML) Profile for DoDAF and MODAF (UPDM). The metamodels defining these notations contain implicit, but not explicit elements for defining how the human fits into the architecture. The Unified Architecture Framework (UAF) has standardized a set of Human Views (called Personnel Views in UAF) into its system of systems framework, allowing the Human aspects to be considered in conjunctions with the rest of the architecture. The UAF Personnel views will not be standalone, but like SysML will allow users to interface with specialty to analyse human aspects in both quantitative and qualitative ways. It is only by taking this integrated approach that systems can be fit for purpose by including the human impact and contribution to overall system performance. This paper will describe these views and how they fit into the overall architecture as well as how they can interact with a spectrum of human factors and architecture tools.
Overview of an Emerging Standard on Architecture Evaluation – ISO/IEC 42030
Authors: Martin James N.
Published: August 2017

A new, emerging standard on architecture evaluation is under development to be published as ISO/IEC 42030. This paper provides an overview of the key concepts in this standard and the rationale for these ideas. The standard defines key elements used in an evaluation: evaluation objectives, criteria, and approach; value assessment objectives, criteria, and methods; and architecture analysis objectives, criteria, and methods. It is expected that these evaluation elements will be used when evaluating architectures and their implementation. This standard can be used as a foundation for organizational training and guidebooks on architecture evaluation methodologies and for related techniques and tools. It can also be used as a basis for implementation of architecture processes.
An Investigation of Functionalities of Future Tool‐chain for Aerospace Industry
Authors: Lu Jinzhi , Chen De‐Jiu , Gürdür Didem , Törngren Martin
Published: August 2017

Model‐based systems engineering (MBSE) is advocated as one important means to deal with increasing product complexity. In this paper, we investigate the increasing interest and use of MBSE in the aerospace domain. The growth of MBSE tools causes new challenges in the corresponding tool‐chain development including data and information management, tool's applicability identification, tool‐integration, etc. In this paper, a literature survey into trends and usages of large‐scale MBSE tool‐chains is presented. It is found that the key functionalities include functional roles, elements, abstraction levels and tool integration techniques. Additionally, we propose a methodology to provide guidance in optimizing future MBSE tool‐chain functionalities for the aero‐industry. In closing, we present a case study in order to illustrate the decision making process required to develop expected tool‐chains by the proposed methodology.
Reproductive characteristics of a coyote population before and during exploitation
Authors: Kilgo John C. , Shaw Christopher E. , Vukovich Mark , Conroy Michael J. , Ruth Charles
Published: August 2017

The eastward expansion of coyotes (Canis latrans) has brought the species into ecosystems and landscapes different from those it historically occupied, yet little is known about the reproductive biology of coyotes in the southeastern United States or the effects of exploitation on reproduction in coyotes. Our objective was to quantify litter size, pregnancy rate, and fecundity in an essentially unexploited coyote population in South Carolina, USA and to evaluate the effect of exploitation on these parameters. We examined reproductive tracts from 235 female coyotes trapped during 2010–2012. Placental scars from coyotes trapped during 2010 indicated that prior to trapping (2009), pregnancy rates were zero for juveniles, 0.25 for yearlings, and 0.389 for adults. Litter size for adults during 2009 averaged 5.4 pups/female, resulting in fecundity of 2.1 pups/female. The number of coyotes trapped was similar among years, indicating that the population recovered following trapping each year, but it shifted toward a younger age structure during trapping. However, although pregnancy rate, litter size, and fecundity of adults all tended to increase from pre‐trapping (2009) through the last trapping period (2011–2012), differences were not significant for this or any other age class. Fecundity of the population did not significantly increase during the first year of trapping (2010) but was lower during the last trapping period (2011–2012; 0.56 ± 0.15 [95% CL]) than prior to trapping (0.90 ± 0.15 [95% CL]). Thus, we observed only weak evidence for compensatory reproduction in response to trapping pressure and conclude that the increase in the juvenile component of the population was attributable primarily to immigration from neighboring areas rather thanin situreproduction. This increased representation of juveniles in the population, which rarely bred, coupled with a concurrent decrease in adults, which accounted for 59.2% of breeding, explains the reduction in population fecundity. High immigration rates as indicated herein render coyote populations extremely difficult to control. © 2017 The Wildlife Society.
A double echo ultra short echo time (UTE) acquisition for respiratory motion‐suppressed high resolution imaging of the lung
Authors: Delacoste Jean , Chaptinel Jerome , Beigelman‐Aubry Catherine , Piccini Davide , Sauty Alain , Stuber Matthias
Published: August 2017

Purpose

Magnetic resonance imaging is a promising alternative to computed tomography for lung imaging. However, organ motion and poor signal‐to‐noise ratio, arising from short
, impair image quality. To alleviate these issues, a new retrospective gating method was implemented and tested with an ultra‐short echo time sequence.

Methods

A 3D double‐echo ultra‐short echo time sequence was used to acquire data during free breathing in ten healthy adult subjects. A self‐gating method was used to reconstruct respiratory motion suppressed expiratory and inspiratory images. These images were objectively compared to uncorrected data sets using quantitative end‐points (pulmonary vessel sharpness, lung–liver interface definition, signal‐to‐noise ratio). The method was preliminarily tested in two cystic fibrosis patients who underwent computed tomography.

Results

Vessel sharpness in expiratory ultra‐short echo time data sets with second echo motion detection was significantly higher (13% relative increase) than in uncorrected images while the opposite was observed in inspiratory images. The method was successfully applied in patients and some findings (e.g., hypointense areas) were similar to those from computed tomography.

Conclusion

Free breathing ultra‐short echo time was successfully implemented, allowing flexible image reconstruction of two different respiratory states. Objective improvements in image quality were obtained with the new method and initial feasibility in a clinical setting was demonstrated. Magn Reson Med 79:2297–2305, 2018. © 2017 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.
Preparation, structure, and property of highly filled polyamide 11/BaTiO3 piezoelectric composites prepared through solid‐state mechanochemical method
Authors: Hua Zhengkun , Shi Xianrui , Chen Yinghong
Published: August 2017

In this article, a piezoelectric polymer composite consisting of polyamide 11 (PA11) and high loading of barium titanate (BT) particles was prepared through solid‐state shear milling method based on a pan‐type milling equipment. The structure and performance of the prepared PA11/BT composite were investigated by using scanning electronic microscopy (SEM), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA), piezoelectric test, and mechanical measurement. Experimental results showed that high loading of BT particles were homogeneously dispersed in PA11 matrix under the strong shear force field of pan‐milling. Besides, the addition of BT changed the crystallization behavior of PA11 matrix and increased its thermal stability also. The dielectric constant of the prepared PA11/BT composites dropped with increase of the frequency. However, it increased remarkably with increase of the BT volume fraction. In addition, a linear increase was found in piezoelectric strain coefficient d33 with increase of the BT volume fraction. For example, d33 could reach 1.1 pC/N and 6.6 pC/N at the BT loading of 5 and 50 vol%, respectively. The obtained composite still showed good mechanical properties even when the BT volume fraction increased to 20 vol%. POLYM. COMPOS., 40:E177–E185, 2019. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
The First Example of Bisindole‐Based Polyurethane Dendrimers: Synthesis and Performance in DSSC
Authors: Sathiyaraj Subramaniyan , Kumar Kaliamurthy Ashok , Jailani Shanavas Abdul Kadar , Sultan Nasar Abdul Salam
Published: August 2017

A new B3‐type blocked isocyanate core and AB2‐type building block molecules containing bis‐indole moiety were synthesized via a scalable synthetic routes. Starting with these molecules, amine‐ and blocked isocyanate‐terminated polyurethane dendrimers up to third generation were build‐up using (i) a simple urethane interchange reaction, (ii) deprotection of amine and (iii) efficient conversion of amine into blocked isocyanate groups. The structural integrity of the core, building block and their intermediates were verified using FT‐IR, 1H‐NMR, and 13C‐NMR spectroscopy and HR‐MS technique. The structure and molecular weight of blocked isocyanate‐terminated dendrimers were confirmed using 1H‐NMR spectra and size exclusion chromatography with multi angle laser light scattering detector (SEC‐MALLS) technique respectively whereas the structure of all other dendrimers were confirmed using FT‐IR, 1H‐NMR, and 13C‐NMR spectroscopy. Dye‐sensitized solar cells (DSSC) were fabricated using these dendrimers as electrolytes; the DSSC fabricated with G3 dendrimer yielded an overall energy conversion efficiency (η) of 6.32 % upon illumination with 1 sun visible light.
Dilithium and Magnesium Alkanediides and 1‐Oxaalkanediides
Authors: Fischer Reinald , Görls Helmar , Krieck Sven , Westerhausen Matthias
Published: August 2017

Dilithium and magnesium alkanediides of the types Li(CH2)nLi and [Mg(CH2)n]xrepresent substance classes with a long tradition, however, the interest in these compounds ceased in recent years. Numerous reasons account for the vanishing attention such as challenging synthetic procedures, poor to moderate yields, complex structures in solution and the solid state, and complex equilibria in solution. Degradation processes (ether degradation, β‐hydride elimination, indirect reduction reactions) increase the intricacy of these compounds because these degradation products take part in the solution equilibria. Thus, chloride and hydride ions are able to act as templates for lithium cages yielding e.g. [(Et2O)4Li]+[Li12(C4H8)6(@‐X)]–(X= H, Cl) with anX‐centered Li12icosahedron. Despite these challenges, the dilithium and magnesium alkanediides are a fascinating substance class with a rich chemistry by its own (such as Schlenk‐type equilibria) and as metalating and reducing reagents. The enormous sensitivity toward moisture (hydrolysis reactions) and air (oxidation processes) and reactivity toward ethereal media (ether degradation reactions) also interferes with the dianionic alkanes because alkoxide and oxide ions are strong Lewis bases and as such, are easily integrated in the structures as bridging anions or centers of metal cages. Thus, aerial oxidation leads to insertion of an oxygen atom into the metal–carbon bond yielding 1‐oxaalkanediides. Alternatively, magnesium 1‐oxaalkanediides can be prepared by a two‐step protocol from chloroalkanol, starting with deprotonation of the alcohol functionality with a Grignard reagent and a subsequent reduction of the C–Cl unit with magnesium turnings. This protocol leads to compounds of the type [{MgO(CH2)n}x(MgCl2)y] with additional ether bases saturating the coordination spheres of the magnesium atoms. All these reactions (increasing degradation processes and reactions with inadvertently introduced traces of oxygen and moisture) limit the durability of such solutions, subsumed as aging of these dilithium and magnesium dialkanediide stock solutions, which lead to a changing (decreasing) reactivity of such reagents.
Conclusion: Are Rising Powers Breaking the Peacebuilding Mold?
Authors: Call Charles T. , de Coning Cedric
Published: August 2017

The concluding chapter analyzes the peacebuilding concepts, policies, and practices of five key rising powers—Brazil, India, Indonesia, South Africa, and Turkey. It finds that these countries’ approaches share some key features but diverge in others. Rising powers have a broader concept of peacebuilding than most Western donor countries, but the extent to which they equate peacebuilding with development varies. They have a more holistic operational approach, a longer time horizon, and a strong emphasis on national ownership, but the latter is often narrowed down to governmental consent. They share a heightened sensitivity to sovereignty, but negotiate this in a variety of ways. It finds that the rising powers have influenced the discourse and practices of peacebuilding, especially at the United Nations (UN), but not transformed them. Several recent setbacks raise doubts about whether rising powers will sustain their new influential role in peacebuilding. This volume shows that rising powers have set forth a broadly coherent set of principles and rationales as the basis for their new approach to peacebuilding. These principles and practices are likely to influence how Western donors, the UN, regional organizations, and non-governmental organizations approach peacebuilding in important ways in the coming years.
A “Brazilian Way”? Brazil’s Approach to Peacebuilding
Authors: Abdenur Adriana Erthal , Call Charles T.
Published: August 2017

Since the early 2000s, Brazil has been a high-profile advocate of non-Western approaches to development cooperation, peace operations, and other initiatives related to peacebuilding. Brazil became more active in a variety of initiatives that can be considered to fall under the concept of peacebuilding. In UN debates, Brazil promoted peacebuilding as a complement and sometimes as an alternative to militarized approaches to peacekeeping, arguing that investing in political processes and socioeconomic development was essential to the promotion of peace. This chapter describes the scope of, and trends in, Brazil’s peacebuilding activities since the early 2000s. It analyzes the broader context, key principles, and main mechanisms of Brazilian peacebuilding; identifies major patterns and trends; and notes some of the most important challenges and contradictions. In particular, it examines whether there is a “Brazilian” approach to peacebuilding and what its elements might be, as well as how that approach differs from dominant or Western principles and practices. It finds that despite recent cutbacks and a lower profile on the global stage, Brazilian efforts abroad constitute a loose but emergent approach to promoting stability and development in partner countries.
Identification of a TBHQ‐Interfering Peak in Crude Canola Oil Using AOCS Official Method Ce 6‐86 and its Chromatographic Resolution
Authors: Blumhorst Michael R. , Mahan Travis , Stanley Kathryn , Griffith Aaron , Collison Mark W.
Published: August 2017

AOCS Official Method Ce 6‐86 “Antioxidants, Liquid Chromatographic Method” was originally developed to confirm the correct antioxidant was added at the specified concentration to refined oils. Today, this method is increasingly utilized to validate that antioxidants are absent from oil products. False positive results can have a significant impact on the ability to sell products in specific markets and can impart additional business expenditures for conclusive secondary analyses. In the current work, quantification of tert‐butylhydroquinone (TBHQ) in crude canola/rapeseed oil using liquid chromatography (LC) with ultraviolet (UV) detection was compromised by an interfering peak. Analyses using liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry (GC–MS) and high‐resolution accurate mass LC–MS identified the interferent as 2,6‐dimethoxy‐4‐vinylphenol (canolol), an endogenous compound present in crude canola/rapeseed oil. Resolution of canolol and TBHQ using LC‐UV can be achieved via minor modification of the chromatographic conditions.
Biochemical Analysis of Four Missense Mutations in the HSD17B3 Gene Associated with 46, XY Disorders of Sex Development in Egyptian Patients
Authors: Engeli Roger T. , Tsachaki Maria , Hassan Heba A. , Sager Christoph P. , Essawi Mona L. , Gad Yehia Z. , Kamel Alaa K. , Mazen Inas , Odermatt Alex
Published: August 2017

Background

Mutations in the HSD17B3 gene are associated with a 46,XY disorder of sexual development (46,XY DSD) as a result of low testosterone production during embryogenesis.

Aim

To elucidate the molecular basis of the disorder by chemically analyzing four missense mutations in HSD17B3 (T54A, M164T, L194P, G289S) from Egyptian patients with 46,XY DSD.

Methods

Expression plasmids for wild-type 17β-hydroxysteroid hydrogenase type 3 (17β-HSD3) and mutant enzymes generated by site-directed mutagenesis were transiently transfected into human HEK-293 cells. Protein expression was verified by western blotting and activity was determined by measuring the conversion of radiolabeled Δ4-androstene-3,17-dione to testosterone. Application of a homology model provided an explanation for the observed effects of the mutations.

Outcomes

Testosterone formation by wild-type and mutant 17β-HSD3 enzymes was compared.

Results

Mutations T54A and L194P, despite normal protein expression, completely abolished 17β-HSD3 activity, explaining their severe 46,XY DSD phenotype. Mutant M164T could still produce testosterone, albeit with significantly lower activity compared with wild-type 17β-HSD3, resulting in ambiguous genitalia or a microphallus at birth. The substitution G289S represented a polymorphism exhibiting comparable activity to wild-type 17β-HSD3. Sequencing of the SRD5A2 gene in three siblings bearing the HSD17B3 G289S polymorphism disclosed the homozygous Y91H mutation in the former gene, thus explaining the 46,XY DSD presentations. Molecular modeling analyses supported the biochemical observations and predicted a disruption of cofactor binding by mutations T54A and M164T and of substrate binding by L196P, resulting in the loss of enzyme activity. In contrast, the G289S substitution was predicted to disturb neither the three-dimensional structure nor enzyme activity.

Clinical Translation

Biochemical analysis of mutant 17β-HSD3 enzymes is necessary to understand genotype-phenotype relationships.

Strengths and Limitations

Biochemical analysis combined with molecular modeling provides insight into disease mechanism. However, the stability of mutant proteins in vivo cannot be predicted by this approach.

Conclusion

The 17β-HSD3 G289S substitution, previously reported in other patients with 46,XY DSD, is a polymorphism that does not cause the disorder; thus, further sequence analysis was required and disclosed a mutation in SRD5A2, explaining the cause of 46,XY DSD in these patients.
A 10-Year Interval Study About the Sexual Life and Attitudes of Korean Women: The Korean Internet Sexuality Survey (KISS) 2014, Part 2
Authors: Park Juhyun , Min Byunghun , Shin Hyojin , Oh Sohee , Song Won Hoon , Cho Sung Yong , Cho Min Chul , Jeong Hyeon , Son Hwancheol
Published: August 2017

Background

Many studies on sexual attitudes and behavior have been performed to improve sexual health.

Aim

To evaluate changing trends in Korean female sexual life and attitudes in an internet-based survey at 10-year intervals.

Methods

The survey was targeted toward 20- to 59-year-old women who were asked to complete the questionnaire only if they were sexually active. The survey contained 110 questions about demographic statistics, sexual life, and attitudes that were crafted based on the 2004 study.

Outcomes

Results of the 2004 study vs those of the 2014 study.

Results

In total, 516 women participated in the study; the questionnaire response rate was 16.0%. The mean frequency of intercourse (FOI) per month was 3.46 ± 2.56 in 2014 vs 5.34 ± 3.84 in 2004. Women in their 20s and 30s in 2014 reported a lower mean FOI than those in 2004. There was no significant difference in the mean FOI in 2004 vs 2014 for women who in their 40s. Risk factors for lower FOI were being older, being single, and having dyspareunia. Most Korean women had positive attitudes toward sex (3.2 ± 0.6 of 5) and considered it as important (3.3 ± 0.7 of 5) as those surveyed in 2004. However, women 20 to 39 years old had less positive attitudes toward sex than in the past decade. Women in their 40s were more active and had more conversations with their partners. Of women using contraceptives, 63.8% were found to use less effective methods, such as intercourse withdrawal and the fertility awareness method.

Clinical Implications

Assessment of changing trends in Korean female sexual life, attitudes, and contraceptive methods could help to establish proper national sexual education programs and campaigns.

Strengths and Limitations

This study was not a cohort study, because subjects in the 2014 were not identical to those in the 2004 study. Nevertheless, we applied the same inclusion and exclusion criteria for this internet survey, a suitable tool to evaluate the sex life of women, which is often considered a sensitive and private issue in Asian culture.

Conclusions

Compared with the 2004 survey, young Korean women had fewer sexual relationships and had a less positive attitude toward sex. In addition, many women used less effective methods of contraception.