bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Northern pigtailed macaques rely on old growth plantations to offset low fruit availability in a degraded forest fragment
Authors: Gazagne Eva , José‐Domínguez Juan Manuel , Huynen Marie‐Claude , Hambuckers Alain , Poncin Pascal , Savini Tommaso , Brotcorne Fany
Published: February 2020

Space‐use and foraging strategies are important facets to consider in regard to the ecology and conservation of primates. For this study, we documented movement, ranging, and foraging patterns of northern pigtailed macaques (Macaca leonina) for 14 months in a degraded habitat with old growth Acacia and Eucalyptus plantations at the Sakaerat Biosphere Reserve in northeastern Thailand. We used hidden Markov models and characteristic hull polygons to analyze these patterns in regard to fruit availability. Macaques' home range (HR) was 599 ha and spanned through a natural dry‐evergreen forest (DEF), and plantation forest. Our results showed that active foraging increased with higher fruit availability in DEF. Macaques changed to a less continuous behavioral state during periods of lower fruit availability in DEF, repeatedly moving from foraging to transiting behavior, while extending their HR further into plantation forest and surrounding edge areas. Concomitantly, macaques shifted their diet from fleshy to dry fruit such as the introduced Acacia species. Our results showed that the diet and movement ecology adaptations of northern pigtailed macaques were largely dependent on availability of native fruits, and reflected a “high‐cost, high‐yield” foraging strategy when fresh food was scarce and dry fruit was available in plantation forest. Conversely, wild‐feeding northern pigtailed macaque populations inhabiting pristine habitat approached a “low‐cost, low‐yield” foraging strategy. Our results outline the effects of habitat degradation on foraging strategies and show how a flexible species can cope with its nutritional requirements.
Phenotyping Reveals Targets of a Pseudo‐Natural‐Product Autophagy Inhibitor
Authors: Foley Daniel J. , Zinken Sarah , Corkery Dale , Laraia Luca , Pahl Axel , Wu Yao‐Wen , Waldmann Herbert
Published: February 2020

Pseudo‐natural‐product (NP) design combines natural product fragments to provide unprecedented NP‐inspired compounds not accessible by biosynthesis, but endowed with biological relevance. Since the bioactivity of pseudo‐NPs may be unprecedented or unexpected, they are best evaluated in target agnostic cell‐based assays monitoring entire cellular programs or complex phenotypes. Here, the Cinchona alkaloid scaffold was merged with the indole ring system to synthesize indocinchona alkaloids by Pd‐catalyzed annulation. Exploration of indocinchona alkaloid bioactivities in phenotypic assays revealed a novel class of azaindole‐containing autophagy inhibitors, the azaquindoles. Subsequent characterization of the most potent compound, azaquindole‐1, in the morphological cell painting assay, guided target identification efforts. In contrast to the parent Cinchona alkaloids, azaquindoles selectively inhibit starvation‐ and rapamycin‐induced autophagy by targeting the lipid kinase VPS34.
Deoxyfluorination with CuF2: Enabled by Using a Lewis Base Activating Group
Authors: Sood D. Eilidh , Champion Sue , Dawson Daniel M. , Chabbra Sonia , Bode Bela E. , Sutherland Andrew , Watson Allan J. B.
Published: February 2020

Deoxyfluorination is a primary method for the formation of C−F bonds. Bespoke reagents are commonly used because of issues associated with the low reactivity of metal fluorides. Reported here is the development of a simple strategy for deoxyfluorination, using first‐row transition‐metal fluorides, and it overcomes these limitations. Using CuF2 as an exemplar, activation of an O‐alkylisourea adduct, formed in situ, allows effective nucleophilic fluoride transfer to a range of primary and secondary alcohols. Spectroscopic investigations have been used to probe the origin of the enhanced reactivity of CuF2. The utility of the process in enabling 18F‐radiolabeling is also presented.
Azahelicene‐Fused BODIPY Analogues Showing Circularly Polarized Luminescence
Authors: Maeda Chihiro , Nagahata Keiji , Shirakawa Takuma , Ema Tadashi
Published: February 2020

Helical carbazole‐based BODIPY analogues were readily synthesized via aza[7]helicenes. The structures of azahelicene‐incorporated BF2 dyes were elucidated by x‐ray diffraction analysis. DFT calculations revealed that the π‐conjugated system expanded from the helicene moiety to the BODIPY framework. The azahelicene‐fused boron complexes showed the Cotton effects and the circularly polarized luminescence (CPL) in the visible region. Furthermore, an axially chiral binaphthyl group was attached to the helically chiral dyes, which enhanced the chiroptical properties.
Thermo‐Responsive MOF/Polymer Composites for Temperature‐Mediated Water Capture and Release
Authors: Karmakar Avishek , Mileo Paulo G. M. , Bok Ivan , Peh Shing Bo , Zhang Jian , Yuan Hongye , Maurin Guillaume , Zhao Dan
Published: February 2020

We report an in situ polymerization strategy to incorporate a thermo‐responsive polymer, poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAM), with controlled loadings into the cavity of a mesoporous metal–organic framework (MOF), MIL‐101(Cr). The resulting MOF/polymer composites exhibit an unprecedented temperature‐triggered water capture and release behavior originating from the thermo‐responsive phase transition of the PNIPAM component. This result sheds light on the development of stimuli‐responsive porous adsorbent materials for water capture and heat transfer applications under relatively mild operating conditions.
Advances in Understanding Mechanisms of Perovskites and Pyrochlores as Electrocatalysts using In‐Situ X‐ray Absorption Spectroscopy
Authors: Park Joohyuk , Cho Jaephil
Published: February 2020

Metal oxides are some of the most promising candidates as electrocatalysts for electrical‐energy‐storage (EES) systems. Particularly, perovskite and pyrochlore oxides have been intensively investigated as bifunctional electrocatalysts because of their superior catalytic activities during the oxygen‐reduction and ‐evolution reactions. However, the origin of the outstanding catalytic activities and structural changes of the materials are not clear, in part due to the difficulty in identification during electrocatalysis. In this Minireview, we present a critical overview of recent progress in understanding catalytic mechanisms of perovskite and pyrochlore oxides, highlighting the innovative in‐situ X‐ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) analysis for electrochemical tests.
GxE Effects on Tocopherol Composition of Oils from Very Old and Genetically Diverse Olive Trees
Authors: Rodrigues Nuno , Casal Susana , Cruz Rebeca , Peres António M. , Baptista Paula , Pereira José A.
Published: February 2020

Tocopherols are compounds with high biological activity, beneficial for human health that can be found in vegetable oils like olive oil, contributing for its resistance to oxidation. In this work, the tocopherol contents of olive oils extracted from centenarian olive trees of six cultivars (cvs. Lentisca, Madural, Rebolã, Redondal, Verdeal, and Verdeal Transmontana) were evaluated during five consecutive crop seasons (2013–2017). Three tocopherol isoforms (α‐, β‐ and γ‐tocopherols) were detected in all analyzed olive oils, and their content varied significantly with the cultivar and year of production. The highest amounts were found in cv. Lentisca (456 ± 122 mg/kg olive oil), while the lowest were observed in cv. Verdeal (179 ± 45 mg/kg olive oil). Crop year was the most influential factor, with the highest contents observed in 2013 and lowest in 2014. Principal component analysis and hierarchical clustering analysis helped differentiate olive oils according to cultivar or production year. These data suggest that tocopherol composition may serve as a chemical marker to distinguish the subject cultivar olive oils from centenarian trees either by olive cultivar or by crop year, being some cultivars identified as potential candidates for guaranteeing the production of olive oils rich in these compounds.
Making vinyl ester resin greener: Succinic acid–glycerol‐derived reactive diluent as an alternative to styrene
Authors: Jahandideh Arash , Moini Nasrin , Bajgholi Sara , Zohuriaan‐Mehr Mohammad Jalal , Kabiri Koroush
Published: February 2020

A bio‐based reactive diluent (BRD) was synthesized from succinic acid and glycerol, and successfully copolymerized with epoxy acrylate (EA). Chemical structure of BRD was studied by nuclear magnetic resonance and Fourier transform infrared. The performance of vinyl ester resin compositions has been examined through differential scanning calorimetry, thermogravimetric analysis, and dynamic mechanical analysis, as well as tensile and flexural tests. Results demonstrated good compatibility between EA and the BRD. Compared to styrene, the BRD contribution of 50 wt% enhanced the elastic modulus (~40%). Samples copolymerized with BRD or styrene, have shown a similar thermal stability. Mechanical properties of cured blends, containing up to 25 wt% of BRD, found to be superior than styrene‐diluted compartments. Viscosities of EA–BRD blends were in range of 3.25–0.43 Pa/s at 30°C. Inexpensive bio‐based source, good thermomechanical and rheological properties, and great compatibility with EA are of advantages of these BRD‐containing formulations.
Population abundance and habitat preference of the Yangtze finless porpoise in the highest density section of the Yangtze River
Authors: Chen Minmin , Yu Daoping , Lian Yuxi , Liu Zhigang
Published: February 2020

Habitat loss and degradation together represent one of the five major factors contributing to the rapid decline of the Yangtze finless porpoise in the Yangtze River. Protecting key habitat patches and maintaining migration corridors between habitat patches are major conservation objectives to ensure the in situ viability of the Yangtze finless porpoise. Baseline information essential for addressing these two objectives includes that pertaining to distribution and habitat preference.

To investigate the distribution and habitat preferences of the Yangtze finless porpoise, five transect surveys were conducted in the Anqing section of the Yangtze River, which has the highest porpoise density among all sections of the river. Porpoise abundance estimates were calculated, and preferences for different habitat types were evaluated.

The calculated porpoise abundance in the Anqing section was 181 (95% CI 125–239) animals on average. The inter‐annual and inter‐seasonal differences in porpoise abundance estimates were not significant. The natural river banks and sandbar shores were the most preferred habitats, representing 46.3 and 29.8% of the porpoise observations, respectively. In contrast, 8.1% of the porpoises were observed in habitats along reinforced river banks, which account for 38.7% of the total coastline. In subsections with natural habitat patches, porpoises were observed in almost every survey, while porpoise occurrence became highly stochastic in subsections with long reinforced river banks. These results indicate a significant tendency of the Yangtze finless porpoise to prefer natural habitats with natural river bank or sandbars but to keep away from reinforced river‐bank habitats.

According to porpoise density in different subsections, free migration may be impeded or only one migration corridor remains in some subsections.

Although protecting finless porpoise habitats has become a primary conservation objective, this study highlights the need to protect frequently used habitat patches and migration corridors, particularly those near natural river banks and sandbars, and to restore ecological environments along reinforced river banks.
Implementation of a 23-h surgery model in a tertiary care hospital: a safe and feasible model with high patient satisfaction
Authors: Ruohoaho U-M , Toroi P , Hirvonen J , Aaltomaa S , Kokki H , Kokki M
Published: February 2020

Background

The 23-h surgery model consists of elective operative care with an overnight hospital stay for patients unsuitable for day case surgery. The aim of this study was to assess the success of the 23-h surgery model.

Methods

This was a prospective follow-up study of patients undergoing surgery with the planned 23-h model in a tertiary-care university hospital during a 12-month period 2 years after the model was implemented. Patients were interviewed 2 weeks after surgery, and the hospital operative database and patient records were searched. The primary outcome was the success of the process, defined as discharge before 10.00 hours on the first morning after surgery. Secondary outcomes were 30-day readmission and reoperation rates, adverse events, and patient satisfaction with the process.

Results

Between May 2017 and May 2018, 993 adult patients underwent surgery with the 23-h model, of whom 937 adhered to the model as planned (success rate 94·4 per cent). Gynaecological, gastrointestinal and orthopaedic surgery were the three most common surgical specialties. The surgical process was changed to an in-hospital model for 45 patients (4·5 per cent), and 11 (1·1 per cent) were discharged on the day of surgery. The readmission rate was 1·9 per cent (19 of 993), and five patients (0·5 per cent) had a reoperation within 30 days of surgery. Fifty-nine adverse events were noted in 53 patients (5·3 per cent), most commonly infection. Patient satisfaction was a median of 6–7 (maximum 7) points for various aspects of the model.

Conclusion

The success rate and patient satisfaction for the 23-h surgery model was high.
How an international ambidexterity strategy can address the paradox perspective on corporate sustainability: Evidence from Chinese emerging market multinationals
Authors: Ciasullo Maria Vincenza , Montera Raffaella , Cucari Nicola , Polese Francesco
Published: February 2020

Corporate sustainability (CS) is receiving considerable attention from emerging market multinational enterprises (EMNEs), playing an important role in the globalized market. However, theoretical and empirical knowledge about how EMNEs address CS is still scant, and the relationship between internationalization and CS has not been widely explored. This study aims to fill this gap, evaluating the relationship between an international ambidexterity strategy and CS in EMNEs, which highlighted the paradox perspective. Then we develop three hypotheses in which we argue how the dynamic capabilities underpinning international ambidexterity could be considered a driver of CS in EMNEs. We test the developed hypotheses against data from 300 Chinese EMNEs obtained by a survey. Our results contribute to shape ambidextrous international strategies and to consider CS as a springboard for the strategic intent to systematically and recursively outperform global competition. Testing a measurement scale of international ambidexterity, we suggest structural ambidexterity as a strategic option of internationalization that allows the achievement of economic, social, and environmental sustainability objectives.
Innovative development of membrane sparger for carbon dioxide supply in microalgae cultures
Authors: Moraes Luiza , da Rosa Gabriel M. , Santos Lucielen O. , Costa Jorge A. V.
Published: February 2020

The present study was aimed to develop a membrane sparger (MS) integrated into a tubular photobioreactor to promote the increase of the carbon dioxide (CO2) fixation by Spirulina sp. LEB 18 cultures. The use of MS for the CO2 supply in Spirulina cultures resulted not only in the increase of DIC concentrations but also in the highest accumulated DIC concentration in the liquid medium (127.4 mg L−1 d−1). The highest values of biomass concentration (1.98 g L−1), biomass productivity (131.8 mg L−1 d−1), carbon in biomass (47.9% w w−1), CO2 fixation rate (231.6 mg L−1 d−1), and CO2 use efficiency (80.5% w w−1) by Spirulina were verified with MS, compared to the culture with conventional sparger for CO2 supply. Spirulina biomass in both culture conditions had high protein contents varying from 64.9 to 69% (w w−1). MS can be considered an innovative system for the supply of carbon for the microalgae cultivation and biomass production. Moreover, the use of membrane system might contribute to increased process efficiency with a reduced cost of biomass production.
Integrated practice effect analysis of teaching design pattern on TPACK
Authors: Guo Ping
Published: February 2020

The paper analyzes the university curriculum, including analysis of context, pedagogical content knowledge, technology technological content knowledge, and technological pedagogical knowledge with the technological pedagogical and content knowledge (TPACK) framework. By integrating classroom teaching with the TPACK framework, through the analysis of the effect of the teaching practice of three stages in four semesters, the following conclusions are drawn: (a) Proper teaching methods and teaching techniques will greatly expand the content of the textbook; (b) integrating TPACK framework requires teachers to have more extensive knowledge and strong organization capacity; (c) through TPACK integration, all kinds of new teaching methods and teaching technologies have plenty of time to use in the classes, and the new idea of educational technology will cause the emergence of educational technologies.
Real‐world data of lapatinib and treatment after lapatinib in patients with previously treated HER2‐positive metastatic breast cancer: A multicenter, retrospective study
Authors: Xie Yizhao , Ge Rui , Sang Die , Luo Ting , Li Wei , Ji Xuening , Yuan Peng , Wang Biyun
Published: February 2020

Lapatinib is widely used in the later lines treatment of HER2 positive metastatic breast cancer (MBC). EGF104900 study suggested that among patients who experienced progression on prior trastuzumab‐containing regimens, lapatinib plus trastuzumab had better effects than trastuzumab alone. However, no evidence was discovered in terms of lapatinib plus capetabine compared with lapatinib plus trastuzumab plus chemotherapy, as well as a treatment after progression on lapatinib. We evaluated the medical records retrospectively of all MBC patients with HER2 positive disease who progressed on prior trastuzumab‐containing regimens (advanced setting) and a taxane (any setting) and received lapatinib‐based treatment from 2015 to 2018 in five institutions in China. A total of 242 patients were available for analysis. Among them, 164 (68%) patients received lapatinib plus capetabine (LX) and 78 (32%) patients received lapatinib plus trastuzumab and one chemotherapy (HLC). The median progression‐free survival (PFS) of the HLC group was significantly superior to the LX group (8.8 months vs 5.0 months, P < .0000001). No significant difference in grade 3 or worse adverse events was observed in two groups (P = .57). A total of 175 patients were available for the analysis of the postlapatinib treatment. Continuation of lapatinib showed superior mPFS results compared to the non‐anti‐HER2 treatment (4 months vs 2 months, P = .01) and similar results compared to switch to other anti‐HER2 treatments (4 months vs 4 months, P = .88). In patients who had progressed on prior trastuzumab‐base therapy, HLC provided a new dual‐targeting treatment option for the later lines therapy of patients with HER2 positive MBC. Moreover, evidence of cross‐line use of lapatinib was provided.
Management of a Large Artery During Maxillary Sinus Bone Grafting: A Case Report
Authors: Basma Hussein S. , Abou‐Arraj Ramzi V.
Published: February 2020

Introduction

Branches of the posterior superior artery (PSA) are often found within the lateral wall of the maxillary sinus. Most vessels are small and laceration of the blood vessel during sinus augmentation is not uncommon. Such lacerations can result in intra‐surgical bleeding complicating the augmentation procedure, otherwise they are typically non‐life threatening. The purpose of the present case report is to document a maxillary sinus floor augmentation procedure involving displacement of large artery from its bony canal using a piezoelectric device.

Case Presentation

A maxillary sinus floor augmentation procedure was performed in a 58‐year‐old healthy female planned for a future implant supported fixed prosthesis. The preoperative computed tomography scan revealed a bony canal within the lateral maxillary sinus wall of the alveolar ridge. The artery tracing obvious on the lateral wall was elevated along with the Schneiderian membrane without any complication or hemorrhage using a piezoelectric device system. The postoperative healing was uneventful.

Conclusion

Elevation of a large diameter PSA branch with the Schneiderian membrane significantly minimizes the risk of vessel laceration and hemorrhagic complications.
Electrochemically Mediated Aqueous Atom Transfer Radical Polymerization of N,N‐Dimethylacrylamide
Authors: De Bon Francesco , Marenzi Sofia , Isse Abdirisak A. , Durante Christian , Gennaro Armando
Published: February 2020

Electrochemically mediated atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) of N,N‐dimethylacrylamide (DMAA) catalyzed by copper complexes with polydentate amine ligands was studied systematically in water, investigating several reaction parameters such as applied potential, catalyst concentration, ligand structure, monomer and initiator concentrations. Electropolymerizations were successfully performed under both potentiostatic and galvanostatic conditions; in both eATRP modes, reactions were fast (monomer conversion >90 % in less than 1 h) and well‐controlled, providing polymers with narrow molecular weight distributions. Despite the low dispersity, chain extension attempts of the obtained polymer were not successful because of partial loss of C−Br chain‐end functionality, due to an intramolecular nucleophilic attack. This is an intrinsic drawback of ATRP of acrylamides and although the electrochemical approach allowed preparation of well‐defined polymers in a very short time (down to ca. 15 min), loss of chain‐end functionality was unavoidable.
Synthesis of thiazol‐2‐imines from the reduction of single enantiomer 2‐imino‐thiazolidin‐4‐ones followed by a spontaneous water elimination
Authors: Tuncel Senel Teke , Dogan Ilknur
Published: February 2020

Chiral hemiaminals (5‐8RR and 5‐8SS) have been synthesized from the corresponding 2‐iminothiazolidine‐4‐ones (1‐4RR and 1‐4SS) by LiAlH4 reductions stereoselectively and were then converted to single enantiomer thiazol‐2‐imines (9‐12RR and 9‐12SS) by a water elimination reaction. The kinetics of the dehydration reactions which occurred spontaneously both in the solid state and in the solution have been followed by time dependent 1H nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. The corresponding first order rate constants and free energies of activation values for the conversions have been reported.
Production of vitamin B1 microparticles by a spray drying process using different biopolymers as wall materials
Authors: Carlan Ioana C. , Estevinho Berta N. , Rocha Fernando
Published: February 2020

The aim of this work was to microencapsulate vitamin B1 by spray‐drying using different encapsulating agents (arabic gum, carrageenan, chitosan, maltodextrin, modified chitosan, modified starch, pectin, sodium alginate, and xanthan) and to characterize the microcapsules and study their release. Microcapsules with a 0.25% (w/w) content of vitamin B1 were produced. The product yield results ranged from 17%‐52% and the encapsulation efficiency from 66%‐100%. Three categories of morphology, regular spherical shape, irregular spherical shape with rough surface, and irregular shape, were identified. Their sizes, determined by laser granulometry, ranged from 0.11‐1.32 μm, in terms of number distribution, and from 3.76‐34.43 μm, in volume distribution. Controlled release studies were performed by spectrophotometric analysis, in deionized water (20°C) and simulated gastric fluid (37°C). Different release behaviours were observed from just 10 seconds (modified starch) up to more than 24 hours (xanthan). Kinetic models such as zero‐order, first‐order, Higuchi, Korsmeyer‐Peppas, and Weibull were applied. The Weibull model showed the best fitting with the experimental data. All release tests were repeated after 4 months and showed good stability over time. A mass loss of vitamin B1 lower than 20% was detected. This study demonstrates the possibility of encapsulating vitamin B1 using different encapsulating agents by a spray‐drying technique. Depending on the intended applications, for fast release, adequate results were obtained for maltodextrin, arabic gum, modified chitosan, and sodium alginate, and for slow release, adequate results were only obtained for chitosan and pectin.
Reasoning with words: A hedge algebra linguistic cognitive map approach
Authors: Van Han Nguyen , Cong Vinh Phan
Published: February 2020

In this article, we introduce a method for reasoning with words based on hedge algebra using linguistic cognitive map. Our model consists of set of vertices and edges with value to be linguistic variables which are constrained by linguistic lattice. We figure out relationship between numeric and linguistic domain for fuzzifying data. We also prove convergence theorem on learning method for linguistic cognitive
map.
Validating the NAAIC alfalfa grazing tolerance standard test and assessing physiological responses to grazing in a tropical environment
Authors: Pedreira Carlos G. S. , Silva Valdson J. , Ferragine Maria D. C. , Bouton Joseph H. , Tonato Felipe , Otani Lyssa , Basto Débora C.
Published: February 2020

The North American Alfalfa Improvement Conference (NAAIC) is the curator of a series of standard tests that allow validation of any alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) cultivar's pest resistance and agronomic attributes. One NAAIC test is for grazing tolerance, an important trait in the tropics. Our objectives were to validate the NAAIC grazing tolerance test and to describe physiological characteristics related to alfalfa grazing persistence in a tropical environment. Treatments were combinations of five cultivars (varying in fall dormancy and grazing tolerance) and two grazing methods, applied from March 2001 to January 2002 (330 d) in Piracicaba, Brazil. Plots were grazed every 7 d (mimicking continuous stocking) or every 28/42 d in spring–summer/autumn‐winter (graze‐rest scheme of rotational stocking), always to 7‐cm stubble. ‘Alfagraze’ (fall dormant, tolerant) and ‘ABT 805’ (fall nondormant, tolerant) had greater survival under both grazing environments compared with the nontolerant checks ‘Pioneer 5432’ (fall dormant, intolerant) and ‘CUF101’ (fall nondormant, intolerant). The widely used Brazilian cultivar ‘Crioula’ showed poor survival, suggesting that adaption did not affect the test, and Crioula is now described as grazing intolerant. Rotational stocking favored persistence of even the tolerant checks. This was related to maintenance of carbohydrate reserve pools, which declined by 80% in roots and by 85% in plant crowns when plots were grazed every 7 d, but only by 46 and 59%, respectively, under the 28/42 d grazing regime. The NAAIC standard test should be useful to screen cultivars for grazing tolerance in tropical or temperate environments. The use of rotational stocking is best for even grazing‐tolerant cultivars.
Increasing the efficacy of forest thinning for snow using high‐resolution modeling: A proof of concept in the Lake Tahoe Basin, California, USA
Authors: Harpold Adrian A. , Krogh Sebastian A. , Kohler Mackenzie , Eckberg Devon , Greenberg Jonathan , Sterle Gary , Broxton Patrick D.
Published: February 2020

Forest manipulation using forest thinning is one of the few means to manage water resources supplying downstream populations that are derived from snow‐covered montane forests. The challenges of simulating processes at the tree scale have precluded generalizable recommendations for removing tree canopy to maximize snow water resources. Here, we apply the high‐resolution Snow Physics and Lidar Mapping (SnowPALM) model to simulate snow mass and energy budgets at 1‐m scale over a 1,200 by 1,200 m domain on the west shore of Lake Tahoe, Sierra Nevada, USA. The SnowPALM model verifies well against observations of snow depth and snow temperature in open and under canopy locations. This supported the application of SnowPALM under “virtual thinning” experiments, where all trees <5, <10, <15, and <20 m height were removed during a 3‐year simulation. Increasing snowpack sublimation losses are smaller than reductions in canopy interception resulting in an overall increase in melt volume. Despite relatively modest melt volume increases of 4–8% across the entire domain, individual 30‐m stands could have >30% melt volume increases. On average, a 0.5 decrease in lidar‐derived leaf area resulted in an ~10.5% increase in melt volume, with shorter, denser 30‐m forest stands having greater melt volume sensitivity. These dense forest stands, where forest thinning was most effective, were found in valley bottoms and north‐facing slopes across the west shore region. This proof of concept supports large domain simulations using high‐resolution models to inform landscape‐scale restoration decisions.
Visible‐Light‐Promoted Efficient Aerobic Dehydrogenation of N‐Heterocycles by a Tiny Organic Semiconductor Under Ambient Conditions
Authors: Yu Kunyi , Zhang Hanjie , Su Chenliang , Zhu Yongfa
Published: February 2020

An efficient reusable catalytic system has been developed based on perylene diimide (PDI) organic semiconductor for the aerobic dehydrogenation of N‐heterocycles with visible light. This practical catalytic system without any additives proceeds under ambient conditions. The minute aggregates of PDI molecules on the surface of SiO2 nanospheres form tiny organic semiconductors, resulting in high‐efficiency photo‐oxidative activity. Notably, the robustness of this method is demonstrated by the synthesis of a wide range of N‐heteroarenes, gram‐scale experiments as well as reusability tests.
Synthesis of N‐Fused Seven‐Membered Indoline‐3‐ones via a Palladium‐Catalyzed One‐Pot Insertion Reaction from 2‐Alkynyl Arylazides and Cyclic β‐Diketones
Authors: Li Ping , Sheng Rong , Zhou Zhiqiang , Hu Guiwen , Zhang Xiaoxiang
Published: February 2020

A novel strategy to synthesize N‐fused seven‐membered multifunctional polycyclic indoline‐3‐one derivatives via insertion of cyclic C‐acylimines into cyclic β‐diketones has been described. The reaction proceeded well under mild reaction conditions via a one‐pot, three‐steps method, which has shown good tolerance of various functional groups.
Efficient evidence‐based decision fusion scheme for cooperative spectrum sensing in cognitive radio networks
Authors: Simpson Oluyomi , Sun Yichuang
Published: February 2020

In this article, an evidence based decision fusion cooperative spectrum sensing (CSS) schemes has been considered for overcoming the hidden terminal problem, improving reliability, and increasing SU agility. Under practical conditions, the combination of conflicting evidences with the classical Dempster‐Shafer theory (DS theory) rule may produce counter‐intuitive results when combining the secondary users (SUs) sensing data evidence leading to poor CSS performance. In order to overcome and minimize the effect of conflicting data, and to enhance performance of the CSS system, a novel efficient evidence‐based decision fusion scheme CSS is proposed. The approach is based on the credibility of evidence from the SUs sensing decision, which represents the similarity or the relation among the different SUs sensing data evidence, and a dissociability degree measure that indicates the quality or clarity of the SUs sensing data evidence. Furthermore, a weighted averaging factor determined by the credibility and dissociability of the SU sensing data evidence is proposed. Simulation results presented show that under practical conditions the proposed scheme enhances the performance of the CSS system when compared to traditional fusion rules that do not take into account the difference in local sensing reliability between the
SUs.
Coal permeability evolution characteristics: Analysis under different loading conditions
Authors: Guo Haijun , Cheng Zhixiang , Wang Kai , Qu Baolin , Yuan Liang , Xu Chao
Published: February 2020

The drainage and utilization of coalbed methane (CBM) resources can not only ensure the safe production of coal mines but also can reduce greenhouse gas emissions and protect the environment. Coal permeability is the key factor that affects the CBM drainage efficiency. To understand the coal permeability evolution characteristics, coal specimens reconstituted by coal powder with different particle sizes were prepared and their permeability under loading conditions was investigated. The results indicate that the coal permeability evolution laws measured by different gases are completely different under constant hydrostatic pressure conditions due to the influence of effective stress and the coal matrix sorption‐induced deformation. Under constant effective stress conditions, the helium permeability of coals is almost unchanged if the effects of the Biot's coefficient of coals are ignored, but the methane permeability of coals decreases with increasing gas pressure. In the complete stress–strain process, the variation of coal permeability as the axial strain increases at different stages is almost completely different and the coal permeability in the residual plastic flow stage increases by 2.4–71 times, 1.5–39 times, and 2.8–116 times that of the initial state under the different boundary conditions. Furthermore, it is also found that the coal permeability evolution laws are determined by the effective stress, the sorption‐induced deformation of coal matrices, and the malconformation of gas adsorption in coals. This study can help us better understand the seepage characteristics of gas in coals and guide the CBM development. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Hepatitis C Virus Infection in Populations With Liver‐Related Diseases in the Middle East and North Africa
Authors: Mahmud Sarwat , Chemaitelly Hiam , Al Kanaani Zaina , Kouyoumjian Silva P. , Abu‐Raddad Laith J.
Published: February 2020

We investigated hepatitis C virus (HCV) epidemiology in populations with liver‐related diseases (LRDs) in the Middle East and North Africa. The data source was standardized databases of HCV measures populated through systematic reviews. Random‐effects meta‐analyses and meta‐regressions were performed, and genotype diversity was assessed. Analyses were based on 252 HCV antibody prevalence measures, eight viremic rate measures, and 30 genotype measures on 132,358 subjects. Pooled mean prevalence in LRD populations was 58.8% (95% confidence interval [CI], 51.5%‐66.0%) in Egypt and 55.8% (95% CI, 49.1%‐62.4%) in Pakistan; these values were higher than in other countries, which had a pooled prevalence of only 15.6% (95% CI, 12.4%‐19.0%). Mean prevalence was highest in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma at 56.9% (95% CI, 50.2%‐63.5%) and those with cirrhosis at 50.4% (95% CI, 40.8%‐60.0%). Type of LRD population and country were the strongest predictors of prevalence, explaining 48.6% of the variation. No evidence for prevalence decline was found, but there was strong evidence for prevalence increase in Pakistan. A strong, positive association was identified between prevalence in the general population and that in LRD populations; the Pearson correlation coefficient ranged between 0.605 and 0.862. The pooled mean viremic rate was 75.5% (95% CI, 61.0%‐87.6%). Genotype 4 was most common (44.2%), followed by genotype 3 (34.5%), genotype 1 (17.0%), genotype 2 (3.5%), genotype 6 (0.5%), and genotype 5 (0.3%). Conclusion: HCV appears to play a dominant role in liver diseases in Egypt and Pakistan and has a growing role in Pakistan. Testing and treatment of LRD populations are essential to reduce disease burden and transmission and to reach HCV elimination by 2030.
Large monochromatic components in 3‐edge‐colored Steiner triple systems
Authors: DeBiasio Louis , Tait Michael
Published: February 2020

It is known that in anyr‐coloring of the edges of a completer‐uniform hypergraph, there exists a spanning monochromatic component. Given a Steiner triple system onnvertices, what is the largest monochromatic component one can guarantee in an arbitrary 3‐coloring of the edges? Gyárfás proved that is an absolute lower bound and that this lower bound is best possible for infinitely many . On the other hand, we prove that for almost all Steiner triple systems the lower bound is actually . We obtain this result as a consequence of a more general theorem which shows that the lower bound depends on the size of a largest 3‐partite hole(ie, disjoint sets with such that no edge intersects all of ) in the Steiner triple system (Gyárfás previously observed that the upper bound depends on this parameter). Furthermore, we show that this lower bound is tight unless the structure of the Steiner triple system and the coloring of its edges are restricted in a certain way. We also suggest a variety of other Ramsey problems in the setting of Steiner triple systems.
Collaborative Problem Solving reduces children's emotional and behavioral difficulties and parenting stress: Two key mechanisms
Authors: Heath Georgina H. , Fife‐Schaw Christopher , Wang Lu , Eddy Christopher J. , Hone Michael J. G. , Pollastri Alisha R.
Published: February 2020

Objectives

This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of the Collaborative Problem Solving (CPS) approach in home‐based family therapy and to explore two hypothesized mechanisms of change.

Method

Sixty‐seven families with children aged 3–12 years old completed a 12‐week home‐based CPS treatment program. Parent‐report measures were completed pre‐ and post‐intervention, including measures on parents’ fidelity of using CPS, parents’ empathy, children's executive functioning, children's behavioral difficulties, and parenting stress.

Results

There were significant reductions in children's behavioral difficulties and parenting stress, and significant improvements in children's executive functioning and parents’ empathy. These improvements were greatest for parents who had the greatest fidelity to CPS. Improvements in children's executive functioning and parents’ empathy mediated the relationship between parents’ CPS fidelity and outcomes.

Conclusions

These results provide evidence that home‐based family treatment with CPS may achieve positive child and family outcomes by building children's executive function skills and improving parents’ empathy.
The association between changes in muscle mass and quality of life in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer
Authors: Derksen Jeroen W.G. , Kurk Sophie A. , Peeters Petra H.M. , Dorresteijn Bram , Jourdan Marion , van der Velden Ankie M.T. , Nieboer Peter , de Jong Robert S. , Honkoop Aafke H. , Punt Cornelis J.A. , Koopman Miriam , May Anne M.
Published: February 2020

Background

Skeletal muscle mass (SMM) loss is common in metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) patients and associated with poor clinical outcomes, including increased treatment‐related toxicities and reduced survival. Muscle loss may contribute to reduced health‐related quality of life (HRQoL), including fatigue. Our aim was to study associations between changes in SMM and concomitant changes in patient‐reported HRQoL.

Methods

This was a secondary analysis of mCRC patients in the CAIRO3 randomized clinical trial who were—after initial treatment—randomized between maintenance treatment with capecitabine plus bevacizumab (CAP‐B) and observation until first disease progression (PD1). Included patients had computed tomography images for SMM quantification, together with HRQoL assessments available at randomization and PD1. Changes in SMM (categorized as >2% loss, stable, and >2% gain) and HRQoL were computed between randomization and PD1. Changes in HRQoL score >10 points were considered clinically relevant. Associations between SMM and HRQoL changes were studied by multiple linear regression models. We also investigated whether associations differed by treatment arm for global health and the 13 other HRQoL subscales.

Results

Of 221 patients included (mean age 63.5 ± 8.4 years), 24% lost, 27% remained stable, and 49% gained SMM. At randomization, mean global health status was 73.5 ± 15.9 in the CAP‐B arm and 75.1 ± 17.5 in the observation arm (P = 0.48). A stable or gain in SMM was significantly associated with a clinically relevant improvement in global health status (9.9 and 14.7 points, respectively), compared with patients who lost SMM. From the subscales that did not show significant differences between the two treatment arms, we found significant and clinically relevant associations for stable or gain in SMM with improved role functioning (12.0 and 17.9, respectively) and with less fatigue (−10.0 and −15.0, respectively) and pain (−16.3 for SMM gain). From the subscales that did show significantly different associations with SMM between the two treatment arms, we only found significant results in the observation arm. Here, associations were found for stable or gain in SMM with clinically relevant improved physical (12.4 for SMM gain), cognitive (10.7 and 9.7, respectively), and social functioning (15.5 and 15.6, respectively) as well as reduced appetite loss (−28.5 and −30.7, respectively).

Conclusions

In mCRC, SMM preservation during CAP‐B and observation treatment is associated with significant and clinically relevant improvements in global health status and multiple functional and symptom scales. Studies are warranted to investigate whether interventions targeting SMM lead to improved HRQoL, fewer symptoms, and better functioning.
Elevation of stromal cell‐derived factor 1 and C‐X‐C chemokine receptor type 4 in white matter damage treatment with recombinant human erythropoietin and human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells in a rat model of preterm birth
Authors: Yin Liping , Wang Shiyu , Zhang Ning , Bai Xiang , Xie Jiali , Wen Quan , Huang Li , Qian Lijuan , Jiang Li
Published: February 2020

Objectives

To investigate the role of stromal cell‐derived factor 1 (SDF‐1) and C‐X‐C chemokine receptor type 4 (CXCR‐4) in the premature brain with white matter damage (WMD) undergoing treatment with human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hUC‐MSCs) and recombinant human erythropoietin (rhEPO).

Experimental Design

Three‐day‐old Sprague‐Dawley (SD) rats were randomly divided into sham operation group, hypoxia‐ischemia (HI) group, rhEPO treated HI group, hUC‐MSCs treated HI group, and rhEPO + hUC‐MSCs treated HI group. WMD was established in all groups except the Sham group. SDF‐1 and CXCR‐4 levels in each group were detected at postnatal day (P) 5, P7, and P14. Pathological changes were assessed via HE staining at P14 and neuroethological tests were performed at P28.

Observations and Conclusions

The rhEPO and hUC‐MSCs intervention reduced injury area, increased body weight at P7, and improved neurobehavioral scores at P28. Furthermore, their combined use proved even more beneficial. SDF‐1 levels in the rhEPO group were higher than those in the other groups and highest in the hUC‐MSCs + rhEPO group (all p < .01). SDF‐1 levels in the hUC‐MSCs + rhEPO and rhEPO groups were increased at P5 and reached a peak at P7. CXCR‐4 levels in the hUC‐MSCs group were higher than those in the other groups and highest in the hUC‐MSCs + rhEPO group (all p < .01). CXCR‐4 levels were also increased at P5 and highest at P14.

Significance

hUC‐MSCs + rhEPO might reduce nerve cell damage and improve neurobehavioral development, in connection with increased SDF‐1 and CXCR‐4 expression, in premature rats with WMD due to hypoxic–ischemic injury.
Clinical characteristics of hospitalized patients with SARS‐CoV‐2 infection: A single arm meta‐analysis
Authors: Sun Pengfei , Qie Shuyan , Liu Zongjian , Ren Jizhen , Li Kun , Xi Jianing
Published: February 2020

Objective

We aim to summarize reliable evidence of evidence‐based medicine for the treatment and prevention of the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) by analyzing all the published studies on the clinical characteristics of patients with SARS‐CoV‐2.

Methods

PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, and other databases were searched. Several studies on the clinical characteristics of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection were collected for meta‐analysis.

Results

Ten studies were included in Meta‐analysis, including a total number of 50466 patients with SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. Meta‐analysis shows that, among these patients, the incidence of fever was 0.891 (95% CI: 0.818, 0.945), the incidence of cough was 0.722 (95% CI: 0.657, 0.782), and the incidence of muscle soreness or fatigue was 0.425 (95% CI: 0.213, 0.652). The incidence of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) was 0.148 (95% CI: 0.046, 0.296), the incidence of abnormal chest computer tomography (CT) was 0.966 (95% CI: 0.921, 0.993), the percentage of severe cases in all infected cases was 0.181 (95% CI: 0.127, 0.243), and the case fatality rate of patients with SARS‐CoV‐2 infection was 0.043 (95% CI: 0.027, 0.061).

Conclusion

Fever and cough are the most common symptoms in patients with SARS‐CoV‐2 infection, and most of these patients have abnormal chest CT examination. Several people have muscle soreness or fatigue as well as ARDS. Diarrhea, hemoptysis, headache, sore throat, shock, and other symptoms are rare. The case fatality rate of patients with SARS‐CoV‐2 infection is lower than that of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) and Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS). This meta‐analysis also has limitations, so the conclusions of this Meta‐analysis still need to be verified by more relevant studies with more careful design, more rigorous execution, and larger sample size.
The influence of habitat and sex on feral fallow deer meat lipid fraction
Authors: Mexia Inês Almeida , Quaresma Mário Alexandre Gonçalves , Coimbra Margarida Cyrne Pacheco , dos Santos Fábio Abade , Alves Susana Paula Almeida , Bessa Rui José Branquinho , Antunes Irene Cristina
Published: February 2020

BACKGROUND

The study tested the hypothesis that habitat and sex influence the composition of meat lipid fraction. Therefore, this study aims to characterize the effects of habitat and sex on feral fallow deer (Dama dama) tenderloin (psoas major muscle) intramuscular fat composition.

RESULTS

Fallow deer meat from the Atlantic forest presented higher total cholesterol and total monounsaturated fatty acids contents, while fallow deer meat from Montado presented significantly higher proportion of total branched chain fatty acids, n‐6 polyunsaturated fatty acids and dimethyl acetals. Regarding the sex influence on meat's fatty acid composition, it was observed that female fallow deer displayed higher contents of total saturated fatty acids than their male counterparts.

CONCLUSION

Independently of the habitat the feral fallow deer's meat can be classified as extra lean. However, the high peroxidability index and the low total vitamin E content suggests that it is prone to lipid peroxidation. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry