bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High density of white‐faced capuchins (Cebus capucinus) and habitat quality in the Taboga Forest of Costa Rica
Authors: Tinsley Johnson Elizabeth , Benítez Marcela E. , Fuentes Alexander , McLean Celia R. , Norford Ariek B. , Ordoñez Juan Carlos , Beehner Jacinta C. , Bergman Thore J.
Published: January 2020

Across the globe, primates are threatened by human activities. This is especially true for species found in tropical dry forests, which remain largely unprotected. Our ability to predict primate abundance in the face of human activity depends on different species' sensitivities as well as on the characteristics of the forest itself. We studied plant and primate distribution and abundance in the Taboga Forest, a 516‐ha tropical dry forest surrounded by agricultural fields in northwestern Costa Rica. We found that the density of white‐faced capuchins (Cebus capucinus) at Taboga is 2–6 times higher than reported for other long‐term white‐faced capuchin sites. Using plant transects, we also found relatively high species richness, diversity, and equitability compared with other tropical dry forests. Edge transects (i.e., within 100 m from the forest boundary) differed from interior transects in two ways: (a) tree species associated with dry forest succession were well‐established in the edge and (b) canopy cover in the edge was maintained year‐round, while the interior forest was deciduous. Sighting rates for capuchins were higher near water sources but did not vary between the edge and interior forest. For comparison, we also found the same to be true for the only other primate in the Taboga Forest, mantled howler monkeys (Alouatta palliata). Year‐round access to water might explain why some primate species can flourish even alongside anthropogenic disturbance. Forest fragments like Taboga may support high densities of some species because they provide a mosaic of habitats and key resources that buffer adverse ecological conditions.
Sex differences in leadership during group movement in mantled howler monkeys (Alouatta palliata)
Authors: Ceccarelli Enrico , Rangel Negrín Ariadna , Coyohua‐Fuentes Alejandro , Canales‐Espinosa Domingo , Dias Pedro Américo D.
Published: January 2020

Benefits of group life depend in large part on whether animals remain cohesive, which often requires collective decisions about where and when to move. During a group movement, the leader may be considered as the individual occupying the vanguard position of the group progression, when its movement evokes following by other group members. In nondespotic societies, individuals with greater incentives to move frequently are leaders. During 15 months of observations (1,712 contact hours), we investigated two mantled howler monkey (Alouatta palliata) groups at La Flor de Catemaco (Los Tuxtlas, Mexico) to examine whether sex and female reproductive state influenced leadership likelihood in two contexts: movements toward feeding trees; movements associated with loud calls, a group‐defense behavior used by males of this genus. Females led and occupied forward positions during group movements toward feeding trees more often than adult males. Adult females led these movements more frequently when they were gestating than when they were lactating or cycling. There were no differences between sexes in the leadership of group movements associated with loud calls. Leadership by gestating females is perhaps the result of their higher nutritional/energetic needs when compared with cycling females, and of their greater mobility when compared with lactating females carrying dependent offspring. Female leadership during movements toward feeding trees may be a mechanism to optimize access to food resources in mantled howler monkeys.
Ethnic and Socioeconomic Associations with Multiple Sclerosis Risk
Authors: Dobson Ruth , Jitlal Mark , Marshall Charles R. , Noyce Alastair J. , Robson John , Cuzick Jack , Giovannoni Gavin
Published: January 2020

Objective

Epidemiological research in multiple sclerosis (MS) has mainly been performed in socioeconomically and ethnically limited populations; influences on MS risk have not been studied in prospectively collected non‐White populations. We set out to study the influence of previously described MS risk factors in an ethnically diverse population.

Methods

A nested case–control study was created using primary care records of >1 million individuals, >50% of whom identify as Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic (BAME). MS cases were compared to an age‐ and sex‐matched control cohort (1:4), and to a large unmatched cohort. Odds ratios (ORs) of disease were determined according to exposure of interest, and a multivariate model including all exposures was created. Potential pairwise interactions were considered where both indicated a significant effect.

Results

A total of 1,344 confirmed MS cases were included. MS OR in blacks aged <40 years was 1.15 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.81–1.62) compared to whites. MS odds in BAME current (OR = 1.71, 95% CI = 1.24–2.31) and ex‐smokers (OR = 2.83, 95% CI = 2.14–3.72) were considerably higher than in Whites (OR = 1.09, 95% CI = 0.88–1.34; OR = 1.44, 95% CI = 1.19–1.74, respectively). Prior infectious mononucleosis was associated with increased odds of MS in Blacks (OR = 4.94, 95% CI = 1.23–17.89). An increase in MS odds was seen in the least‐deprived quintile (OR = 2.46, 95% CI = 1.40–4.24), but no effect across deprived quintiles was seen.

Interpretation

This cohort provides novel data on factors potentially driving MS susceptibility in a diverse population, one‐third of whom live in poverty. Environmental exposures have differential risk across ethnicity. ANN NEUROL 2020;87:599–608
Gemischte polyanionische Verbindungen als positive Elektroden für die kostengünstige elektrochemische Energiespeicherung
Authors: Lan Yuanqi , Yao Wenjiao , He Xiaolong , Song Tianyi , Tang Yongbing
Published: January 2020

Kostengünstige elektrochemische Energiespeichersysteme (EESS) sind dringend erforderlich, um die Anwendung erneuerbarer Energiequellen wie Wind, Sonne usw. voranzutreiben. Die Geschichte der Lithium‐Ionen‐Batterien hat gezeigt, dass die Kosten von EESSs hauptsächlich von Ladungsträger‐Ionen und Redoxzentren in den Elektroden abhängen und ihre Leistung durch positive Elektroden begrenzt wird. In diesem Szenario bewertet dieser Kurzaufsatz mehrere EESS‐Kandidaten und fasst die bekannten gemischten polyanionischen Verbindungen (MPVs) zusammen – eine Familie mit robusten Strukturen und großen Kanälen für die Ionenspeicherung und ‐migration. Nach einer umfassenden Analyse wird darauf hingewiesen, dass eine tiefere Erforschung der MPVs zu einer Reihe neuartiger kristallographisch interessanter Verbindungen und ausgezeichneten Kathodenmaterialien für kostengünstige Energiespeicheranwendungen führen kann.
Iridium‐Catalyzed Enantioselective Hydrogenation of Oxocarbenium Ions: A Case of Ionic Hydrogenation
Authors: Yang Tilong , Sun Yongjie , Wang Heng , Lin Zhenyang , Wen Jialin , Zhang Xumu
Published: January 2020

Ionic hydrogenation has not been extensively explored, but is advantageous for challenging substrates such as unsaturated intermediates. Reported here is an iridium‐catalyzed hydrogenation of oxocarbenium ions to afford chiral isochromans with high enantioselectivities. A variety of functionalities are compatible with this catalytic system. In the presence of a catalytic amount of the Brønsted acid HCl, an α‐chloroether is generated in situ and subsequentially reduced. Kinetic studies suggest first‐order kinetics in the substrate and half‐order kinetics in the catalyst. A positive nonlinear effect, together with the half kinetic order, revealed a dimerization of the catalyst. Possible reaction pathways based on the monomeric iridium catalyst were proposed and DFT computational studies revealed an ionic hydrogenation pathway. Chloride abstraction and the cleavage of dihydrogen occur in the same step.
Co/Cu bimetallic ZIF as New heterogeneous catalyst for reduction of nitroarenes and dyes
Authors: Gholinejad Mohammad , Naghshbandi Zhwan , Sansano José M.
Published: January 2020

Nowadays one of the great challenges is to design new bimetallic catalysts with enhanced catalytic activity, selectivity and recycling properties. In this work, the preparation of new Co/Cu bimetallic Zeolitic Imidazolate Framework (Co‐Cu/ZIF) as an efficient catalyst for the reduction of nitro compounds and organic dyes is described. Co‐Cu/ZIF was characterized with different techniques such as SEM, TEM, XRD, XPS, TGA, FT‐IR and UV–vis absorption indicating formation of entirely uniform cubic particles. Using this catalyst, structurally different aromatic nitro compounds were reduced efficiently to corresponding amines in excellent yields. Kinetic studies revealed that the reduction rates of nitrophenol isomers follow 3‐NP > 4‐NP > 2‐NP order. The catalytic activity of Co‐Cu/ZIF was further investigated in the reduction of organic dyes such as methyl orange (MO) and rhodamine B (RhB). This catalyst was recycled for at least ten runs in the reduction of 4‐nitrophenol without a noticeable decrease in activity and reused catalyst was characterized.
A theoretical study on the pure and doped ZnO nanoclusters as effective nanobiosensors for 5‐fluorouracil anticancer drug adsorption
Authors: Zhihong Y. , Ye Y. , Pejhan A. , Nasr A.H. , Nourbakhsh N. , Tayebee R.
Published: January 2020

The electronic sensitivity and effectiveness of the pristine, Fe,‐ Mg‐, Al‐ and Ga‐doped ZnO nanoclusters interacted with 5‐fluorouracil (5‐FU) anticancer drug are theoretically investigated in the gas phase using the B3LYP/wB97XD density functional theory calculations with LANL2DZ basis set. It is concluded that 5‐FU adsorption on the doped nanoclusters has relatively higher adsorption energy as compared with the pristine zinc oxide. A number of thermodynamic parameters, such as band gap energy (Eg), adsorption energy (Ead), molecular electrostatic potential, global hardness (η) and density of electronic states, are attained and compared. Also, calculated geometrical parameters and electronic properties for the studied systems indicate that Mg‐ and Ga‐doped Zn12O12 present higher sensitivity to 5‐FU compared with the pristine nanocluster. Theoretical results reveal that adsorption of 5‐FU on the doped nanoclusters is influenced by the electronic conductance of the nanocluster. Therefore, Mg‐ and Ga‐doped ZnO can be considered as promising nanobiosensors for detection of 5‐FU in medicine.
Effect of Feeding a Low Level of Encapsulated Fish Oil to Dairy Goats on Milk Yield, Composition, and Fatty Acid Profile
Authors: Núñez de González Maryuri , Attaie Rahmat , Woldesenbet Sela , Mora‐Gutierrez Adela , Kirven Jeneanne , Jung Yoonsung , Myers Deland
Published: January 2020

Contradictory results have been found in the response of dairy goats to the supplementation of fish oil in their diet to improve the n‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) in milk. The responses to the inclusion of fish oil in the diet of ruminants either induced milk fat depression, increased milk fat content, and/or negatively impacted milk yield. The objective of this study was to determine whether including a low dose of encapsulated fish oil in the diet of goats can modify yield, milk composition, and the fatty acid (FA) profile of milk. Ten Alpine goats were divided into two homogeneous subgroups and assigned to either the control or experimental diet. The control animals received the basal diet without supplementation of fish oil, whereas the experimental group was given the same basal diet supplemented with encapsulated fish oil (1.14 g /kg of concentrate) for 56 days. Milk samples were analyzed for chemical composition and FA profile. The inclusion of encapsulated fish oil in the goat diet did not affect the yield and composition of goat milk. The effect of diet was not significant on the FA profile of goat milk, except that 20:0 was lower (P < 0.05) in the milk of goats that received fish oil. The low dose of encapsulated fish oil supplement used in this study did not impact (P > 0.05) the PUFA content of goat milk or milk composition and yield; however, the atherogenicity index (AI), which is beneficial to heart health, was lower (P < 0.05) in the milk of goats that received fish oil as a supplement in their diet compared to the control.
Fatty Acid Estolides: A Review
Authors: Chen Yunzhi , Biresaw Girma , Cermak Steven C. , Isbell Terry A. , Ngo Helen L. , Chen Li , Durham Amber L.
Published: January 2020

Estolides are bio‐based oils synthesized from fatty acids or from the reaction of fatty acids with vegetable oils. Estolides have many advantages as lubricant base oils, including excellent biodegradability and cold flow properties. Promising applications for estolides include bio‐lubricant base oils and in cosmetics. In this review, the synthesis of estolides from fatty acids using four different types of catalysts, namely, mineral acids, solid acids, lipases, and ionic liquids, is summarized. The summary includes the yield of estolide obtained from varying synthetic conditions (time, temperature, catalyst). Also reviewed are studies comparing the physical properties of estolides synthesized from refined fatty acids against those synthesized from fatty acid mixtures obtained from vegetable oils such as coconut, castor, Physaria, etc. By varying the structure of the fatty acids, estolides with a wide range of pour point, cloud point, and viscosity are synthesized to meet a wide range of application requirements. Currently, estolide products are being commercialized for personal care and lubricant base oils for automotive, industrial, and marine applications. The application areas and the demand for estolides is expected to grow as the drive for switching from petroleum to bio‐based products keeps growing.
Microalgae as a promising and sustainable nutrition source for managed honey bees
Authors: Ricigliano Vincent A.
Published: January 2020

Managed honey bee colony losses are attributed to a number of interacting stressors, but many lines of evidence point to malnutrition as a primary factor. Commercial beekeepers have become increasingly reliant on artificial pollen substitute diets to nourish colonies during periods of forage scarcity and to bolster colony size before pollination services. These artificial diets may be deficient in essential macronutrients (proteins, lipids, prebiotic fibers), micronutrients (vitamins, minerals), and antioxidants. Therefore, improving the efficacy of pollen substitutes can be considered vital to modern beekeeping. Microalgae are prolific sources of plant‐based nutrition with many species exhibiting biochemical profiles that are comparable to natural pollen. This emerging feed source has been employed in a variety of organisms, including limited applications in honey bees. Herein, I introduce the nutritional value and functional properties of microalgae, extrapolating to central aspects of honey bee physiology and health. To conclude, I discuss the potential of microalgae‐based feeds to sustainably provision managed colonies on an agricultural scale.
Recent advances in optimization and game theoretic control for networked systems
Authors: Wu Yuhu , Cheng Daizhan , Ghosh Bijoy K. , Shen Tielong
Published: January 2020

The aim of this paper is to provide an overview, although unnecessarily complete, of recent advances in optimal control, optimization, and game theory for networked systems. First, the recent research results and progress in optimal control and game theory for logical domain networked systems are summarized. Then, the recent developments on networked optimization and game theory for continuous domain systems are presented afterward. Finally, after introducing some recent practical applications of optimal control and game theory on networked systems, we conclude the paper with a short discussion on future research perspectives.
Monthly variation and spatial distribution of quadrant tropical cyclone size in the Western North Pacific
Authors: Hong Wei , Zheng Yulan , Chen Bin , Su Tonghua , Ke Xiaoqing
Published: January 2020

With the tropical cyclone (TC) size parameter defined as the radius of 17‐m·s−1 oceanic surface wind, 225 TC cases were recorded in the western North Pacific during 2000–2009 based on the QuikSCAT near‐surface wind vector database and the best‐track dataset. In accordance with the symmetry index (the ratio of minimum and maximum quadrant sizes), the TCs were classified into symmetric and asymmetric structures. The asymmetric TCs were divided into four types: the northeast, southeast, southwest, and northwest. The spatio‐temporal characteristics of these TC types were further investigated. The monthly variation and the spatial distribution of maximum quadrant TC size exhibited significant differences among the four types. By contrast, the quadrant size of the symmetric TCs from June to November showed few changes (2.6°–2.7° latitude). It was found that the TC lifetime is an important factor affecting the quadrant TC size because of its close relationship with the activities of the western Pacific subtropical high. In addition, the climatological mean circulation also has a notable influence on the quadrant TC size through superposition of prominent background wind. Symmetric TCs are more likely to occur in the oceanic region where the background low‐level wind is the weakest.
Bottoms up: Delivering sustainable value in the base of the pyramid
Authors: Heuer Mark Alan , Khalid Usman , Seuring Stefan
Published: January 2020

Despite a wealth of expertise involving leading institutions over at least 15 years, a base of the pyramid (BoP) model resulting in scalability has yet to emerge. We posit that institutional gaps between BoP goals of developing human and social capital on one hand and a short‐term profit focus of business on the other contribute to the lack of scalability. We address this gap by proposing a social intermediary to link the BoP with firms involved in the BoP. The social intermediary will coordinate and interpret the informal market requirements of the BoP to the firm in a “bottoms up” approach. We illustrate the bottoms up approach through a case involving Deutsche Gesellschaft fur Internationale Zusammenarbeit, a German government agency, with the garment manufacturing industry in Pakistan. The case study involves implementation of labor standards and productivity in the Pakistan garment industry, resulting in improved productivity and labor standards enabling garment manufacturers to access global supply chains.
Theorising the emerging green prosumer culture and profiling green prosumers in the green commodities market
Authors: Perera Chamila R. , Hewege Chandana R. , Mai Cai V. C.
Published: January 2020

This paper explores the phenomenon of green prosumption with a view to theorising the phenomenon and highlighting the challenges and opportunities this particular subculture creates for marketers of green commodities. Narratives of young green prosumers were gathered from 18 phenomenological in‐depth interviews. Capturing green prosumer experiences and subjective meanings, three thematic categories of green prosumption practices, (a) contraction, (b) control, and (c) creation, are postulated in the study. It also highlights several unforeseen challenges as well as a vast array of opportunities emerging from the three green prosumer segments identified in the study: semi‐green prosumers, empowered green prosumers, and liberated green prosumers. This study provides green commodity marketers with a set of recommendations to exploit opportunities in these largely untapped market segments.
Strength exercise suppresses STZ‐induced spatial memory impairment and modulates BDNF/ERK‐CAMKII/CREB signalling pathway in the hippocampus of mice
Authors: Martini Franciele , Régis Leite Marlon , Gonçalves Rosa Suzan , Pregardier Klann Isabella , Wayne Nogueira Cristina
Published: January 2020

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that has generated scientific interest because of its prevalence in the population. Studies indicate that physical exercise promotes neuroplasticity and improves cognitive function in animal models and in human beings. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of strength exercise on the hippocampal protein contents and memory performance in mice subjected to a model of sporadic AD induced by streptozotocin (STZ). Swiss mice received two injections of STZ (3 mg/kg, intracerebroventricular). After 21 days, they began physical training using a ladde. Mice performed this protocol for 4 weeks. After the last exercise training session, mice performed the Morris Water Maze test. The samples of hippocampus were excised and used to determine protein contents of brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), extracellular signal‐regulated kinase‐Ca2+ (ERK), calmodulin‐dependent protein kinase (CAMKII) and cAMP‐response element‐binding protein (CREB) signalling pathway. Strength exercise was effective against the decrease in the time spent and distance travelled in the target quadrant by STZ‐injected mice. Strength exercise was also effective against the reduction of mature BDNF, tropomyosin receptor kinase B and neuronal nuclear antigen (NeuN) hippocampal protein levels in STZ mice. The decrease in the hippocampal ratio of pERK/ERK, pCAMKII/CAMKII and pCREB/CREB induced by STZ was reversed by strength exercise. Strength exercise decreased Bax/Bcl2 ratio in the hippocampus of STZ‐injected mice. The present study demonstrates that strength exercise modulated the hippocampal BDNF/ERK‐CAMKII/CREB signalling pathway and suppressed STZ‐induced spatial memory impairment in mice.
Impact of Al Activators on Structure and Catalytic Performance of Cr Catalysts in Homogeneous Ethylene Oligomerization – A Multitechnique in situ/operando Study
Authors: Grauke Reni , Schepper Rahel , Rabeah Jabor , Schoch Roland , Bentrup Ursula , Bauer Matthias , Brückner Angelika
Published: January 2020

The front cover artwork for Issue 04/2020 is a collaboration between Leibniz Institute for Catalysis (Germany) and University of Paderborn (Germany). The image illustrates that it's hard to stand just on one leg when investigating a very complex reaction. A proper bidentate coordination of a PNP ligand to a Cr complex catalyst is needed to ensure high performance in homogeneous ethylene tetramerization. The synergy between in situ EPR and XAS spectroscopy is essential to derive reliable information. See the Full Paper itself at https://doi.org/10.1002/cctc.201901441.
Exploring the latent variable space of PLS2 by post‐transformation of the score matrix (ptLV)
Authors: Stocchero Matteo
Published: January 2020

Projection to Latent Structures (PLS) regression is largely applied in chemometrics. The most used algorithm for performing PLS is probably PLS2. PLS2 solves the problem of redundancy and collinearity in complex data sets and produces a small set of latent variables that can be used to investigate complex phenomena. However, the presence of specific cluster structures or trends in the data can drive PLS2 towards wrong directions and a redundant number of latent variables is generated. To overcome this unexpected behaviour, OSC‐based methods were developed. The main idea was to use the concept of orthogonality to identified two different type of sources of structured variation which are modeled into two different subspaces: the non‐predictive subspace described by latent variables orthogonal to the Y‐response and the predictive subspace related to the Y‐response. OSC‐based methods work on the variable space producing suitable weight vectors to project the data. In this study, a new post‐transformation method, called post‐transformation of the Latent Variable space (ptLV), is introduced. The method generates a latent space isomorphic to that discovered by PLS2 where the non‐predictive data variation is separated from the predictive one. It works on the score space and can be applied also to kernel‐PLS2 (KPLS2). The relationships with post‐transformation of PLS2 (ptPLS2) are investigated and a real and two simulated data sets are used to illustrate how ptLV works in practice.
Fast method for GA‐PLS with simultaneous feature selection and identification of optimal preprocessing technique for datasets with many observations
Authors: Stefansson Petter , Liland Kristian H. , Thiis Thomas , Burud Ingunn
Published: January 2020

A fast and memory‐efficient new method for performing genetic algorithm partial least squares (GA‐PLS) on spectroscopic data preprocessed in multiple different ways is presented. The method, which is primarily intended for datasets containing many observations, involves preprocessing a spectral dataset with several different techniques and concatenating the different versions of the data horizontally into a design matrixXwhich is both tall and wide. The large matrix is then condensed into a substantially smaller covariance matrixXTXwhose resulting size is unrelated to the number of observations in the dataset, i.e. the height ofX. It is demonstrated that the smaller covariance matrix can be used to efficiently calibrate partial least squares (PLS) models containing feature selections from any of the involved preprocessing techniques. The method is incorporated into GA‐PLS and used to evolve variable selections for a set of different preprocessing techniques concurrently within a single algorithm. This allows a single instance of GA‐PLS to determine which preprocessing technique, within the set of considered methods, is best suited for the spectroscopic dataset. Additionally, the method allows feature selections to be evolved containing variables from a mixture of different preprocessing techniques. The benefits of the introduced GA‐PLS technique can be summarized as threefold: (1) for datasets with many observations, the proposed method is substantially faster compared to conventional GA‐PLS implementations based on NIPALS, SIMPLS, etc. (2) using a single GA‐PLS automatically reveals which of the considered preprocessing techniques results in the lowest model error. (3) it allows the exploration of highly complex solutions composed of features preprocessed using various techniques.
Corannulene‐Based Electron Acceptors: Combining Modular and Practical Synthesis with Electron Affinity and Solubility
Authors: Barát Viktor , Budanovic Maja , Tam Si Man , Huh June , Webster Richard D. , Stuparu Mihaiela C.
Published: January 2020

It is shown in this work that high electron affinity can be combined with high solubility and practical accessibility in corannulene‐based electron acceptors. The electron affinity originates from the presence of three different types of electron‐withdrawing groups (imide, sulfone, and trifluoromethyl) on the aromatic scaffold. The imide substituent further hosts a long alkyl chain (C18H37) to boast solubility in a wide range of organic solvents. The synthesis is modular and consists of three simple steps from a commonly available corannulene derivative with an overall isolated yield of 22–27 %.
Electrocautery ablation of anal high‐grade squamous intraepithelial lesions: Effectiveness and key factors associated with outcomes
Authors: Gaisa Michael M. , Liu Yuxin , Deshmukh Ashish A. , Stone Kimberly L. , Sigel Keith M.
Published: January 2020

Background

Electrocautery ablation (EA) is a common treatment modality for patients with anal high‐grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (HSILs), but to the authors' knowledge its effectiveness has been understudied. The objective of the current study was to determine ablation outcomes and to identify clinicopathological factors associated with postablation disease recurrence.

Methods

A total of 330 people living with HIV with de novo intra‐anal HSIL who were treated with EA from 2009 to 2016 were studied retrospectively. Using long‐term, surveillance high‐resolution anoscopy biopsy data, treatment failures were classified as local recurrence (HSIL noted at the treated site at the time of surveillance) or overall recurrence (HSIL noted at treated or untreated sites). The associations between these outcomes and clinical factors were analyzed using Cox proportional hazards models.

Results

Approximately 88% of participants were men who have sex with men. The median age of study  participants was 45.5 years (range, 35‐51 years) and approximately 49% had multiple index HSILs (range, 2‐6 index HSILs). At a median of 12.2 months postablation (range, 6.3‐20.9 months postablation), approximately 45% of participants had developed local recurrence whereas 60% had developed overall recurrence. Current cigarette smoking, HIV viremia (HIV‐1 RNA ≥100 copies/mL), and multiple index HSILs were found to be predictive of local recurrence. Overall recurrence was more common in current smokers and those with multiple index lesions. In multivariable models that included human papillomavirus (HPV) genotypes, baseline and persistent infections with HPV‐16 and/or HPV‐18 were found to be significantly associated with both local and overall recurrence.

Conclusions

EA is an effective treatment modality for anal HSIL in people living with HIV, but rates of disease recurrence are substantial. Multiple index HSILs, HIV viremia, current cigarette smoking, and both baseline and persistent infection with HPV‐16 and/or HPV‐18 appear to negatively impact treatment success. Ongoing surveillance is imperative to capture recurrence early and improve long‐term treatment outcomes.
Anal cancer prevention: Solving the puzzle piece by piece
Authors: Goldstone Stephen E.
Published: January 2020

Although the incidence of many cancers is decreasing in the United States, the incidence of anal squamous cell cancer is increasing, and mortality appears to be outpacing the increased incidence in the number of new cases. Furthermore, patients are presenting with more advanced disease.
The Effect of Orally Administered Dronabinol on Optic Nerve Head Blood Flow in Healthy Subjects—A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Hommer Nikolaus , Kallab Martin , Szegedi Stephan , Puchner Stefan , Stjepanek Kristina , Bauer Martin , Werkmeister René M. , Schmetterer Leopold , Abensperg‐Traun Marihan , Garhöfer Gerhard , Schmidl Doreen
Published: January 2020

It has been hypothesized that besides its intraocular pressure (IOP) lowering potential, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) may also improve ocular hemodynamics. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether single oral administration of dronabinol, a synthetic THC, alters optic nerve head blood flow (ONHBF) and its regulation in healthy subjects. The study was carried out in a randomized, placebo‐controlled, double‐masked, two‐way crossover design in 24 healthy subjects. For each study participant, 2 study days were scheduled, on which they either received capsules containing 5 mg dronabinol or placebo. ONHBF was measured with laser Doppler flowmetry at rest and while the study participants performed isometric exercise for 6 minutes to increase mean arterial blood pressure (MAP). This was repeated 1 hour after drug intake. Ocular perfusion pressure (OPP) was calculated as 2/3MAP–IOP. Dronabinol was well tolerated and no cannabinoid‐related psychoactive effects were reported. Neither administration of dronabinol nor placebo had an effect on IOP, MAP, or OPP. In contrast, dronabinol significantly increased ONHBF at rest by 9.5 ± 8.1%, whereas placebo did not show a change in ONHBF (0.3 ± 7.4% vs. baseline, P < 0.001 between study days). Dronabinol did not alter the autoregulatory response of ONHBF to isometric exercise. In conclusion, the present data indicate that low‐dose dronabinol increases ONHBF in healthy subjects without affecting IOP, OPP, or inducing psychoactive side effects. In addition, dronabinol does not alter the autoregulatory response of ONHBF to an experimental increase in OPP. Further studies are needed to investigate whether this effect can also be observed in patients with glaucoma.
Mid‐season county‐level corn yield forecast for US Corn Belt integrating satellite imagery and weather variables
Authors: Schwalbert Rai , Amado Telmo , Nieto Luciana , Corassa Geomar , Rice Charles , Peralta Nahuel , Schauberger Bernhard , Gornott Christoph , Ciampitti Ignacio
Published: January 2020

Yield estimations are of great interest to support interventions from governmental policies and to increase global food security. This study presents a novel model to perform in‐season corn yield predictions at the US‐county level, providing robust results under different weather and yield levels. The objectives of this study were to: (i) evaluate the performance of a random forest classification to identify corn fields using Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), Enhanced Vegetation Index (EVI) and weather variables (temperature, precipitation, and vapor pressure deficit, VPD); (ii) evaluate the contribution of weather variables when forecasting corn yield via remote sensing data, and perform a sensitivity analysis to explore the model performance in different dates; and (iii) develop a model pipeline for performing in‐season corn yield predictions at county‐scale. Main outcomes from this study were: (i) high accuracy (87% on average) for corn field classification achieved in late August, (ii) corn yield forecasts with a mean absolute error (MAE) of 0.89 Mg ha−1, (iii) weather variables (VPD and temperature) highly influenced the model performance, and (iv) model performance decreased when predictions were performed early in the season (mid‐July), with MAE increasing from 0.87–1.36 Mg ha−1 when forecast timing changed from day of year 232–192. This research portrays the benefits of integrating statistical techniques and remote sensing to field survey data in order to perform more reliable in‐season corn yield forecasts.
Understanding the influence of corporate social responsibility practices on impulse buying
Authors: Hayat Khizar , Jianjun Zhu , Zameer Hashim , Iqbal Shahid
Published: January 2020

This objective of this study is to explore the influence of corporate social responsibility (CSR) on consumer's impulse buying behavior and to examine the most dominant practices for CSR which enforce to impulse buying. To check the relationship of CSR practices (environmental well‐being, social well‐being, and economic well‐being) with impulse buying, a set of hypotheses developed. Using online survey method data has been collected. The valid replies (301 responses) were processed using, CFA and SEM methods. Results indicate that environmental well‐being has a constructive relationship for trust which further leads to impulse buying and economic well‐being has a positive significant association with impulse buying directly. However, the actions of social well‐being having no impact on consumer's impulse buying behavior. By taking gender as a moderator, the actions of environmental well‐being influence positively. No effect was found for social well‐being, whereas economic well‐being was partially supported. Further, theoretical and managerial implications were discussed.
Equalization and blind CFO estimation for performance enhancement of OFDM communication systems using discrete cosine transform
Authors: Ramadan Khaled , Dessouky Moawad I. , Abd El‐Samie Fathi E. , Fiky Ahmed S.
Published: January 2020

In wireless communication systems, equalization is one of the most important schemes to improve the system performance. This paper consists of two main parts. The first part presents a blind carrier frequency offset (CFO) estimation scheme based on discrete cosine transform (DCT). The second part presents a joint low‐complexity equalization, and CFO compensation in orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) systems. Moreover, in the second part, we present a joint low‐complexity regularized zero‐forcing (JLRZF) equalizer based on the proposed CFO estimation scheme. Simulation results show that the proposed configuration has the ability to perform blind CFO estimation and enhance the system performance in the presence of estimation errors.
Guidelines for the cytopathologic diagnosis of epithelioid and mixed‐type malignant mesothelioma: Complementary statement from the international mesothelioma interest group, also endorsed by the international academy of cytology and the papanicolaou society of cytopathology. A proposal to be applauded and promoted but which requires updating
Authors: Sheaff Michael
Published: January 2020

The guidelines for the cytopathologic diagnosis of epithelioid and mixed‐type malignant mesothelioma produced by the International Mesothelioma Interest Group and which are endorsed by the International Academy of Cytology and the Papanicolaou Society of Cytopathology are reviewed and discussed. This (predominantly) evidence‐based document provides a robust and useful framework for diagnosticians and guideline producers to emphasise and promote the value, power and role of cytology in mesothelioma diagnosis and management with comments and suggestions about how the guidelines can be updated and improved in the future.
Reclassification of urinary cytology regarding The Paris System for Reporting Urinary Cytology with cytohistological correlation demonstrates high sensitivity for high‐grade urothelial carcinoma
Authors: Anbardar Mohammad Hossein , Monjazeb Raha
Published: January 2020

Background

Recently, The Paris System for Reporting Urinary Cytology (TPS) has led to major changes in the approach to evaluate urine cytology and pattern of reporting. The aim of this study was to reclassify urine cytology reports with TPS in order to determine the frequency of abnormal results compared with the previous system; also, we performed cytohistological correlation in abnormal cytological results.

Methods

In this study, the voided urine specimens from the patients referred to Shiraz University of Medical Sciences affiliated laboratories were retrieved and analyzed using the laboratory's electronic records system; slides prepared from the samples were reviewed by single cytopathologist blindly according to the proposed criteria of TPS.

Results

Totally, 1842 urine cytology slides from 828 patients were blindly evaluated by TPS criteria and compared with routine urine cytology classification. Then, available cytohistological correlation was done on 99 abnormal urine cytological results from 58 patients. Among the 26 cytology slides with atypical urothelial cell (AUC) in the previous classification, eight (30.70%) slides were downgraded to negative results, and four (15.30%) were upgraded to higher groups. Therefore, through the reclassification of the slides with TPS, 46% of the AUC changed to other groups. Diagnostic accuracy of the TPS classified urine cytology was 78%, including 87.88% sensitivity, 27.27% specificity, 64.44% positive predictive value, and 60% negative predictive value.

Conclusion

The findings of the present study confirmed the importance and utility of TPS regarding the reclassification of AUC to other groups and its high sensitivity for detecting high‐grade urothelial carcinoma (HGUC).
Is there climate policy integration in European Union energy efficiency and renewable energy policies? Yes, no, maybe
Authors: Kettner Claudia , Kletzan‐Slamanig Daniela
Published: January 2020

The integration of climate policy concerns in other policy areas where decisions are taken that determine greenhouse gas emissions is a prerequisite for effectively mitigating climate change. There are particularly strong interlinkages between energy and climate policy as the major part of greenhouse gas emissions is related to energy supply and use. We compile a set of five output‐focused indicators for assessing climate policy integration (political commitment, functional overlap, policy instruments, weighting, and time perspective). We then apply the criteria for an appraisal of climate policy integration in European Union (EU) energy policy during the last decade; that is, we focus on climate policy integration from a horizontal perspective. The focus of our research lies on the comparison of the Renewable Energy and the Energy Efficiency Directives of the Energy Union Package with their predecessors. Our results show that climate change mitigation is a key objective in these documents. The energy policy objectives are generally synergetic with climate policy. The Energy Union Package makes progress in some areas like the more stringent EU targets for renewable energy and energy efficiency or the more stringent sustainability criteria for biofuels. However, some conflicting issues arise. The shift from national to an overall EU renewables target and the change towards more market‐oriented support schemes might together with the elimination of preferential grid access for renewable electricity entail negative impacts on renewable investment and on achieving emission reductions. It remains to be seen whether the adaptations in EU energy policy will lead to the required acceleration of the energy transition.
Carpal tunnel syndrome in cardiac amyloidosis: implications for early diagnosis and prognostic role across the spectrum of aetiologies
Authors: Milandri Agnese , Farioli Andrea , Gagliardi Christian , Longhi Simone , Salvi Fabrizio , Curti Stefania , Foffi Serena , Caponetti Angelo Giuseppe , Lorenzini Massimiliano , Ferlini Alessandra , Rimessi Paola , Mattioli Stefano , Violante Francesco Saverio , Rapezzi Claudio
Published: January 2020

Aims

We aimed to assess carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) prevalence in transthyretin (TTR)‐related and light‐chain amyloidosis (AL), comparing it to the general population, adjusted for age and gender. In TTR‐related amyloidosis (ATTR) we investigated (i) CTS prevalence in relation to genotype, cardiac amyloidosis (CA), age and gender; (ii) CTS role as an incremental risk factor for CA; (iii) temporal relationship between CTS and CA; and (iv) CTS prognostic role.

Methods and results

Data from 538 subjects (166 hereditary ATTR, 107 wild‐type ATTR, 196 AL amyloidosis, and 69 TTR mutation carriers; 64% male, median age 62.4 years), evaluated at our centre (Bologna, Italy), were analysed and compared to a published cohort of 14.9 million people, in which incidence rates of CTS had been estimated. CTS prevalence was highest in ATTR patients with CA (20.3% vs. 4.1% in the general population), while it was comparable to the general population when CA was absent and in AL patients. CTS standardized incidence rates were markedly elevated in ATTR males in the eighth decade of life (13.08 in hereditary ATTR, 15.5 in wild‐type ATTR). The risk of developing CA was greater in ATTR patients with CTS; the probability of having CTS was highest 5–9 years prior to CA diagnosis. CTS was an independent mortality risk factor in ATTR.

Conclusions

Compared to general population the adjusted prevalence of CTS is higher among elderly men with ATTR; CTS is a prognostic marker in ATTR, independently of cardiac involvement, and precedes CA diagnosis by 5–9 years. The awareness of this association and time delay offers the possibility of an early pre‐clinical ATTR‐CA diagnosis.
Enantioselective Synthesis of Monosaccharide Analogues by Two‐Step Sequential Enamine Catalysis: Benzoyloxylation and Aldol Reaction
Authors: Shimogaki Mio , Takeshima Aika , Kano Taichi , Maruoka Keiji
Published: January 2020

An efficient route to synthesize monosaccharide analogues in an enantio‐ and diastereoselective manner is described. Three contiguous stereocenters can be constructed via enantioselective benzoyloxylation of aldehydes using a chiral secondary amine catalyst and a subsequent aldol reaction of the resulting α‐benzoyloxyaldehydes with the protected dihydroxyacetones using chiral amino acid catalysts, and single diastereomers were obtained with excellent enantioselectivity.
Autoclave sterilization of tetra‐polyethylene glycol hydrogel biomaterials with β‐eliminative crosslinks
Authors: Henise Jeff , Yao Brian , Ashley Gary W. , Santi Daniel V.
Published: January 2020

Sterilization of degradable polymeric biomaterials intended for injection presents a formidable challenge. Often, either the polymer backbone or labile crosslinks controlling degradation are adversely affected by commonly used sterilization methods. The purpose of this work was to develop an approach to sterilize tetra‐polyethylene glycol hydrogel microspheres (MSs) with β‐eliminative crosslinks that are destined to be carriers for drug delivery. The approach taken was to acidify the medium to compensate for the base‐catalyzed cleavage of linkers at high temperatures. We determined that rates of linker cleavage at pH 4 or below were sufficiently slow as to allow autoclaving and showed that precursor amine‐derivatized MSs could withstand autoclaving at pH 4 for at least four cycles of 20 minutes each at 121°C. Thus, amine‐MSs need not be prepared aseptically, but instead can be prepared in a low bioburden environment, and then sterilized by autoclaving before drug attachment.
Effect of Porosity on Energy Harvesting Performance of 0.5Ba(Ca0.8Zr0.2)O3 − 0.5(Ba0.7Ca0.3)TiO3 Ceramics: A Numerical Study
Authors: Karmakar Saptarshi , Kiran Raj , Singh Chauhan Vishal , Vaish Rahul
Published: January 2020

Finite element analysis is conducted on a barium calcium zirconate titanate (BCZT) material to investigate its energy harvesting performance at different porosities. Porosities are gradually increased to 25% in steps of 5. BCZT piezoceramics attached to a host cantilever beam in unimorph configuration and subjected to base vibration are considered for the present study. Both and modes are considered. Power is harvested using a load resistance optimized with the structure's natural frequency of vibration. Up to a certain porosity level, an increase in voltage and power is observed in the system. An increment in voltage by ≈95% in mode and ≈119% in mode is observed at 10% porosity. Power increased by 50% in mode and by 53% in mode at 5% porosity compared with the nonporous material.
Calculation of the inner‐shell contribution to the correlation energy through DLPNO‐CEPA/1 and scaled same‐spin second‐order Møller–Plesset perturbation theory
Authors: Sánchez Hernán R.
Published: January 2020

The use of two low‐cost methods for the prediction of the inner‐shells contribution to the correlation energy is analyzed. The Spin‐Component‐Scaled second‐order Møller–Plesset perturbation theory (SCS‐MP2) was reparameterized for the prediction of such contributions. The best results are found when only the same spin term is considered (SSS‐MP2). The Coupled Electron Pair Approximation (CEPA) using the Domain‐based Local Pair Natural Orbital approximation (DLPNO) was also studied for the same purpose. The methods were tested for atomization energies on the W4‐11 test set using basis sets up to quadruple zeta quality. The SSS‐MP2 proved to be a marked improvement upon MP2 decreasing the root‐mean‐square‐error (RMSE) from 0.443 to 0.302 kcal mol−1. The RMSE of DLPNO‐CEPA/1 in the test set is only 0.147 kcal mol−1 and its computational cost is very low considering the intended applications. Furthermore, a linear combination of both methods decreased the RMSE to 0.118 kcal mol−1.