bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fatty Acids of Abyssal Echinodermata, the Sea Star Eremicaster vicinus and the Sea Urchin Kamptosoma abyssale: A New Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid Detected, 22:6(n‐2)
Authors: Svetashev Vasily I. , Kharlamenko Vladimir I.
Published: February 2020

Fatty acids (FA) of two species of abyssal Echinodermata—the sea star (Asteroidea) Eremicaster vicinus and the sea urchin (Echinoidea) Kamptosoma abyssale—from the Kuril–Kamchatka Trench, collected at depths of 5210 and 6183 m, were analyzed. Lipids of these deposit‐feeding animals showed similar FA compositions: 20.05–16.08% saturated, 42.20–39.50% monoenoic, and 37.75–44.42% polyunsaturated FA, respectively. The contents of odd‐ and branched‐chain FA were 17.35% and 8.80%, respectively. A significant part of FA was represented by uncommon FA such as 21:4(n‐7), 22:4(n‐8), 22:5(n‐5), and 23:4(n‐9), earlier discovered in deep‐sea foraminifera. Also, the newly found acid, related to the ω2 family, Δ5,8,11,14,17,20–22:6(n‐2), amounted 1.60% and 0.33% of total FA, respectively, for the two species. Such unusual FA composition of these abyssal species can be explained by the transfer and modification of FA from consumed foraminifera, which in turn, feed on bacteria.
Effects of Ga and Sn on the electrochemical behavior of Mg–6Al–1Zn as anode materials
Authors: Wan Xiaofeng , Chen Wei , Zhou Jingling , Zhang Hua , Zhang Fubao , Wei Kequan
Published: February 2020

The microstructure and electrochemical behavior of Mg–6Al–1Zn, Mg–6Al–1Zn–1Ga, Mg–6Al–1Zn–1Sn, and Mg–6Al–1Zn–0.5Sn–0.5Ga as anode materials in a 3.5 wt% NaCl solution are compared systematically. The results show that Sn alloying refines the second‐phases of Mg–6Zn–1Al by promoting tiny granular Mg17Al12 phases containing Sn, and inspires their disperse distribution. However, the Ga results in the formation of semicontinuous reticular Ga containing Mg17Al12 phases. The comparison of discharge tests indicates that Mg–6Al–1Zn–1Sn has the highest discharge activity, and Mg–6Al–1Zn–1Ga displays the largest hydrogen evolution corrosion resistance in 3.5 wt% NaCl solution at 298 K. The synergy of Ga and Sn can shorten discharge activation time and promote low discharge potential. In addition, the utilization efficiencies of the alloys decrease as follows: Mg–6Al–1Zn–1Ga > Mg–6Al–1Zn–0.5Sn–0.5Ga > Mg–6Al–1Zn–1Sn > Mg–6Zn–1Al. This study illustrates that the Mg–6Al–1Zn–0.5Sn–0.5Ga alloy has acceptable utilization efficiency and desirable electrochemical activity, which implies that doping Ga and Sn obtains a balance between discharge activity and utilization efficiencies.
Synergistic effect of iodide ions and bark resin of Schinus molle for the corrosion inhibition of API5L X70 pipeline steel in H2SO4
Authors: Djellab Mounir , Bentrah Hamza , Chala Abdelouahad , Taoui Hicham , Kherief Slimane , Bouamra Bouzid
Published: February 2020

The synergistic effect of bark resin of Schinus molle (BRSM) and iodide ions in 0.5 M sulfuric acid has been studied for the first time by potentiodynamic polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy measurements; also, the surface morphology has been analyzed by scanning electron microscopy–energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopic analysis in the present work. The results show that the BRSM and iodide ions have an evident synergistic inhibition effect in a 0.5‐M sulfuric acid solution. The adsorption of the BRSM/iodide ion system follows the Langmuir adsorption isotherm and acts as a mixed‐type inhibitor in sulfuric acid. The BRSM/iodide ion system is an effective inhibitor for API5L X70 pipeline steel in the 0.5‐M sulfuric acid solution. The maximum percentage inhibition efficiency is equal to 99% at 1 g/L BRSM + 2 mM KI.
Cellulose Regeneration and Chemical Recycling: Closing the “Cellulose Gap” Using Environmentally Benign Solvents
Authors: El Seoud Omar A. , Kostag Marc , Jedvert Kerstin , Malek Naved I.
Published: February 2020

Strategies to mitigate the expected “cellulose gap” include increased use of wood cellulose, fabric reuse, and recycling. Ionic liquids (ILs) are employed for cellulose physical dissolution and shaping in different forms. This review focuses on the regeneration of dissolved cellulose as nanoparticles, membranes, nonwoven materials, and fibers. The solvents employed in these applications include ILs and alkali solutions without and with additives. Cellulose fibers obtained via the carbonate and carbamate processes are included. Chemical recycling (CR) of polycotton (cellulose plus poly(ethylene terephthalate)) is addressed because depending on the recycling approach employed, this process is akin to regeneration. The strategies investigated in CR include preferential dissolution or depolymerization of one component of the blend, and separation of both components using ILs. It is hoped that this review focuses the attention on the potential applications of regenerated cellulose from its solutions and contributes to the important environmental issue of recycling of used materials.
Properties Prediction and Design of Tire Tread Composites Using Machine Learning
Authors: Pang Song , Luo Jinlian , Wu Youping
Published: February 2020

The present study focuses on exploring the relationship between various properties of tire tread composites and filler system using machine learning. Four different types of machine learning algorithms, such as multiple linear regression (MLR), artificial neural network (ANN), support vector machine regression (SVR), and classification and regression tree, are used for predicting 0 °C tanδ, 60 °C tanδ, tensile strength, and Shore A hardness of natural rubber nanocomposites from carbon nanotubes dosage, silica dosage, and total filler equivalent. The results showed that the introduction of interaction terms and square terms into the inputs evidently improved the prediction capability of MLR, ANN and SVR, and MLR possessed the smallest prediction errors (<5%). The established MLR models are further used to design tire tread composites with high 0 °C tanδ, low 60 °C tanδ, and appropriate Shore A hardness and tensile strength. The predicted values are in good agreement with the experimental results, indicating that the established MLR models can be used for properties prediction and design of tire tread composites effectively. Moreover, k‐fold cross‐validation is proved to be a reliable technique to evaluate the predictive capability of the MLR models.
Peripheral nerve repair throughout the body with processed nerve allografts: Results from a large multicenter study
Authors: Safa Bauback , Jain Sonu , Desai Mihir J. , Greenberg Jeffrey A. , Niacaris Timothy R. , Nydick Jason A. , Leversedge Fraser J. , Megee David M. , Zoldos Jozef , Rinker Brian D. , McKee Desirae M. , MacKay Brendan J. , Ingari John V. , Nesti Leon J. , Cho Mickey , Valerio Ian Lee , Kao Dennis S. , El‐Sheikh Yasser , Weber Renata V. , Shores Jaimie T. , Styron Joseph F. , Thayer Wesley P. , Przylecki Wojciech H. , Hoyen Harry A. , Buncke Gregory M.
Published: February 2020

Background

Peripheral nerve damage resulting in pain, loss of sensation, or motor function may necessitate a reconstruction with a bridging material. The RANGER® Registry was designed to evaluate outcomes following nerve repair with processed nerve allograft (Avance® Nerve Graft; Axogen; Alachua, FL). Here we report on the results from the largest peripheral nerve registry to‐date.

Methods

This multicenter IRB‐approved registry study collected data from patients repaired with processed nerve allograft (PNA). Sites followed their own standard of care for patient treatment and follow‐up. Data were assessed for meaningful recovery, defined as ≥S3/M3 to remain consistent with previously published results, and comparisons were made to reference literature.

Results

The study included 385 subjects and 624 nerve repairs. Overall, 82% meaningful recovery (MR) was achieved across sensory, mixed, and motor nerve repairs up to gaps of 70 mm. No related adverse events were reported. There were no significant differences in MR across the nerve type, age, time‐to‐repair, and smoking status subgroups in the upper extremity (p > .05). Significant differences were noted by the mechanism of injury subgroups between complex injures (74%) as compared to lacerations (85%) or neuroma resections (94%) (p = .03) and by gap length between the <15 mm and 50–70 mm gap subgroups, 91 and 69% MR, respectively (p = .01). Results were comparable to historical literature for nerve autograft and exceed that of conduit.

Conclusions

These findings provide clinical evidence to support the continued use of PNA up to 70 mm in sensory, mixed and motor nerve repair throughout the body and across a broad patient population.
Degree theory and existence of positive solutions to coupled system involving proportional delay with fractional integral boundary conditions
Authors: Ali Anwar , Sarwar Muhammad , Zada Mian Bahadur , Shah Kamal
Published: February 2020

The purpose of this paper is to obtain the existence of at least one solution to the following coupled system of nonlinear fractional order differential equations under the integral type boundary conditions by using topological degree theory

where
,
,
denotes the standard Caputo fractional derivative,
,
and
are continuous functions. For this intention, some results for the existence of at least one solution are constructed. For the validity of our results, an appropriate example is presented.
A Simulation Study to Evaluate Biases in Population Characteristics Estimation Associated with Varying Bin Numbers in Size-Based Age Subsampling
Authors: Hilling Corbin D. , Jiao Yan , Bunch Aaron J. , Phelps Quinton E.
Published: February 2020

In temperate waters, growth and mortality of bony fishes are frequently estimated from age information derived from the examination of annular rings on hard structures (e.g., otoliths). However, determining ages from hard structures can be time consuming, often requires sacrificing fish, and has associated costs for supplies and personnel time in processing or reading structures. Subsampling based on a target number of fish per length bin is commonly used to reduce time and costs but may introduce biases into the estimation of population characteristics. We wanted to understand how interactive effects of bin width, gear selectivity, and length-at-age variability influence the estimation of growth parameters, total instantaneous mortality (Z), and age frequency. We developed a simulation model to generate populations under the assumption that growth followed the von Bertalanffy growth model; we then sampled from those populations for age analysis based on no gear selectivity, dome-shaped selectivity, and logistic selectivity. Furthermore, we wanted to determine whether observed biases could be corrected by using a weighting procedure during growth model fitting. Fifteen subsampling schemes were evaluated, with five different length bin widths and three target subsample sizes for each bin (subsampling levels). Gear selectivity, variability in length at age, and estimation procedures had a greater and more predictable influence on growth parameters than bin widths for size-based subsampling. Dome-shaped gear selectivity was associated with biases in growth parameter and Z estimation. Weighted regression based on weighting factors calculated from the original sample's length frequency generally improved the consistency of growth parameter estimates among subsampling schemes but did not always improve accuracy. No bin widths or subsample sizes were clearly superior across modeled scenarios. Consequently, alteration of bin widths seems less useful in reducing biases than using alternative estimation methods for population characteristics of interest and considering other external factors.
Intraductal papillary neoplasms of the bile duct consist of two distinct types specifically associated with clinicopathological features and molecular phenotypes
Authors: Aoki Yasutaka , Mizuma Masamichi , Hata Tatsuo , Aoki Takeshi , Omori Yuko , Ono Yusuke , Mizukami Yusuke , Unno Michiaki , Furukawa Toru
Published: February 2020

Intraductal papillary neoplasm of the bile duct (IPNB) is a grossly visible papillary biliary neoplasm with morphological variations and occasional invasion. Recently a new classification of IPNB into type 1 and type 2 was proposed in which the type 1 IPNBs consist of fine papillary neoplastic glands and the type 2 IPNBs consist of complex branching glands, seldom with foci of solid‐tubular components. However, clinicopathological and molecular characteristics of these types of IPNBs are yet to be identified. We aimed to uncover clinicopathological and molecular characteristics of the types of IPNBs. Thirty‐six IPNBs were studied retrospectively. Clinicopathological features as well as molecular alterations of 31 genes were evaluated by means of targeted next‐generation sequencing and immunohistochemical examination of expression of mucin and cancer‐associated molecules. The 36 IPNBs were classified into 22 of type 1 and 14 of type 2. The type 1 IPNBs were associated with a non‐invasive phenotype, intestinal and oncocytic subtypes, development in the intrahepatic bile duct, overt mucin production, and a relatively good prognosis. The type 2 IPNBs were associated with an invasive phenotype, the pancreatobiliary subtype, development within the extrahepatic bile duct, and worse prognosis compared with the type 1 IPNBs. In the molecular analysis, recurrent mutations were found in TP53 (34.3%), KRAS (31.4%), STK11 (25.7%), CTNNB1 (17.1%), APC (14.3%), SMAD4 (14.3%), GNAS (11.4%), PBRM1 (11.4%), ELF3 (8.6%), KMT2C (8.6%), NF1 (8.6%), PIK3CA (8.6%), ARID1A (5.7%), ARID2 (5.7%), BAP1 (5.7%), BRAF (5.7%), EPHA6 (5.7%), ERBB2 (5.7%), ERBB3 (5.7%), KMT2D (5.7%), and RNF43 (5.7%). Mutations in KRAS and GNAS were enriched in the type 1 IPNBs, whereas mutations in TP53, SMAD4, and KMT2C were enriched in the type 2 IPNBs. These results indicate that IPNBs consist of two distinct types of neoplasms specifically associated with clinicopathological features and molecular phenotypes. © 2020 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Long non‐coding RNAs in development and disease: conservation to mechanisms
Authors: Tsagakis Ioannis , Douka Katerina , Birds Isabel , Aspden Julie L
Published: February 2020

Our genomes contain the blueprint of what makes us human and many indications as to why we develop disease. Until the last 10 years, most studies had focussed on protein‐coding genes, more specifically DNA sequences coding for proteins. However, this represents less than 5% of our genomes. The other 95% is referred to as the ‘dark matter’ of our genomes, our understanding of which is extremely limited. Part of this ‘dark matter’ includes regions that give rise to RNAs that do not code for proteins. A subset of these non‐coding RNAs are long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNAs), which in particular are beginning to be dissected and their importance to human health revealed. To improve our understanding and treatment of disease it is vital that we understand the molecular and cellular function of lncRNAs, and how their misregulation can contribute to disease. It is not yet clear what proportion of lncRNAs is actually functional; conservation during evolution is being used to understand the biological importance of lncRNA. Here, we present key themes within the field of lncRNAs, emphasising the importance of their roles in both the nucleus and the cytoplasm of cells, as well as patterns in their modes of action. We discuss their potential functions in development and disease using examples where we have the greatest understanding. Finally, we emphasise why lncRNAs can serve as biomarkers and discuss their emerging potential for therapy. © 2020 The Authors. The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
Pediatric rhabdomyosarcoma with bone marrow metastasis
Authors: Bailey Kayleen A. , Wexler Leonard H.
Published: February 2020

Background

Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) is the most common soft tissue sarcoma of adolescence and childhood. Although most patients with localized RMS are cured, outcome of those with metastatic disease remains unsatisfactory. RMS with bone marrow (BM) metastasis accounts for approximately 6% of all cases with RMS and has a 3‐year event‐free survival of 14%. Our study aims to describe our institution's experience of patients with metastatic RMS with BM involvement.

Methods

This was a single‐institution retrospective study from Memorial Sloan Kettering Kids, a tertiary pediatric oncology center. Patients with RMS who were diagnosed with BM metastasis between 1998 and 2018 were identified from pathology reports.

Results

For patients with RMS and BM positivity at diagnosis (N = 27), the median survival was 1.5 years. The 1‐, 2‐, and 3‐year overall survival (OS) were 81%, 32%, and 20%, respectively. There is one long‐term (defined as >4 year) survivor who is still alive 14.9 years after diagnosis despite two metastatic recurrences. An Oberlin status of 4 that included BM metastasis portended a 3‐year OS of 0%.

Conclusions

Although most patients will respond to initial therapy, BM metastasis at the time of diagnosis lends a near‐fatal diagnosis in pediatric patients with RMS. Novel therapies are desperately needed to consolidate their initial remission.
The development of a web‐based resource to provide information and psychosocial support to informal cancer carers in hospitals in Vietnam
Authors: Santin Olinda , Jenkins Chris , Nghiem Hoa L. P. , Prue Gillian , Reid Joanne , Lohfeld Lynne , Ho Hien T.
Published: February 2020

Objective

Vietnam, like many low/middle income countries, lacks the infrastructure to provide information and psychosocial support to cancer patients and their carers. We undertook a codesign process to develop a web resource to inform and support carers.

Methods

Cancer carers and health care professionals' perspectives regarding information and support needs and the content and delivery of web‐based supports, were explored via five focus groups (n = 39) and semistructured interviews (n = 4) in Vietnam in 2018. Focus groups and interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using thematic analysis. Resource components were verified at two joint stakeholder workshops attended by 40 participants.

Results

The development of a web‐based resource was identified as an urgent need. A web‐based resource was viewed as a suitable interface to provide support across regions in a sustainable way. The structure of the resource should include peer‐led videoed advice, signposting to services and include official endorsement. The potential resource components identified includes (a) cancer causes and consequences; (b) hospital administration, treatment processes, and prices; (c) daily living; (d) emotional and supportive information; (e) skills training; and (f) nutrition and traditional medicine.

Conclusion

The development of a web‐based resource to deliver information and psychosocial supports to cancer carers and by‐proxy patients is an urgent requirement in Vietnam. Next steps will include resource development and testing the resources ability to address the unmet needs of cancer carers and patients. A web‐based resource to support cancer carers has the potential for application to other developing countries.
Self‐compassion moderates the perceived stress and self‐care behaviors link in women with breast cancer
Authors: Abdollahi Abbas , Taheri Azadeh , Allen Kelly A.
Published: February 2020

Objective

Women with breast cancer are exposed to various stressors, and self‐care behaviors play an important role in their recovery. However, very few studies have investigated self‐care behaviors specifically for women with breast cancer. The current study examined the relationship between perceived stress and self‐care behaviors, and explored whether self‐compassion moderated this relationship.

Methods

A sample of 210 women with breast cancer aged 27 to 60 years old from three hospitals in Tehran, Iran completed online self‐report questionnaires of self‐care behaviors, self‐compassion, and perceived stress.

Results

Data analyses with structural equation modeling showed that perceived stress (β = −.37, P < .01) and self‐compassion (β = .38, P < .01) were significant predictors of self‐care behaviors. The interaction‐moderation analysis showed that self‐compassion acted as a moderator between perceived stress and self‐care behaviors.

Conclusions

The findings enhance our understanding about the protective role of self‐compassion in the relationship between perceived stress and self‐care behaviors in women with breast cancer.
Characterization of the Dynamic Response and Constitutive Behavior of PTFE/Al/W Reactive Materials
Authors: Zhang Hao , Wang Haifu , Ge Chao
Published: February 2020

In this study, the static and dynamic mechanical behaviors of four types of PTFE/Al/W reactive materials with different component mass ratios were studied. The mechanical properties of reactive materials at elevated strain rates and temperatures were tested by quasi‐static compression and Split Hopkinson Pressure Bar (SHPB). Parametric study on material properties was carried out, and the Johnson‐Cook constitutive constants were well determined. Based on the good agreement between the predicted and tested constitutive response, a systematic comparison of the static and dynamic behaviors, as well as the comprehensive stress‐strain relationships were conducted, regarding the strain rate and temperature effect. Microscopic fractographic analysis of the tested samples reveals the localized thermal softening effects and fiber network formation phenomenon of the matrix, which dominate the overall mechanical response of the four types of PTFE/Al/W reactive materials, and contribute to the elasto‐plastic property, strain hardening, strain rate strengthening and thermal softening effects.
Ignition and Combustion Behavior of Sintered‐B/MgB2 Combined with KNO3
Authors: Sun Yalun , Ren Hui , Jiao Qingjie , Li Yongnan , Xu Heming , Yu Xusheng , Zhang Wei , Lu Qingchuan
Published: February 2020

To further enhance the performance of B/KNO3 (BPN) igniter, sintered B/MgB2 (s‐B/MgB2) powder was proposed to be used as a boron substitute. The amount of heat release was tested by oxygen bomb and thermogravimetry/differential scanning calorimetry (TG/DSC). s‐B/MgB2/KNO3 (sBPN) igniter could not release as much heat as BPN igniter in the oxygen bomb due to the reduced calorific value of the s‐B/MgB2. However, calculations show that s‐B/MgB2 reached an over 90 % heat release efficiency in oxygen bomb, compared to that of 53.34 % for boron. At heating rate of 10 K min−1 in TG/DSC experiment, 19.5 % sBPN (sBPN with 19.5 wt. % s‐B/MgB2 powder) has a heat release of 1815 J g−1 and experienced an exothermic span of 2.10 min, whereas it took 24.5 % BPN (BPN with 24.5 wt. % boron powder) 3.45 min to release 1465 J g−1. The pressure‐time curve (P‐t curve), burning rate and combustion temperature were determined. The P‐t curve indicates that the combustion pressure was more readily established with the sBPN than with the BPN. The maximum pressure rise of sBPN was 362.0 Pa ms−1, whereas the figure for BPN is 77.2 Pa ms−1. Coupled with infrared radiation (IR) temperature thermometer, the distribution of the flame temperature field during combustion was obtained. It is shown that the combustion temperature of 19.5 % sBPN igniter is approximately 800 K higher than that of 24.5 % BPN. IR images of the combustion process show that the temperature difference of the 19.5 % sBPN flame is smaller than that of the 24.5 % BPN. 19.5 % sBPN also produces more hot residue, which contains KMgF3, resulting in a longer high‐temperature duration. The higher combustion pressure and temperature and more residue may enable the sBPN to readily ignite the following charge.
The effects of Ginkgo biloba on metabolic syndrome: A review
Authors: Eisvand Farhad , Razavi Bibi Marjan , Hosseinzadeh Hossein
Published: February 2020

The Ginkgo biloba (G. biloba), commonly known as ginkgo, brings considerable benefit to common medicine, including weight loss effects, as well as antidiabetic, antihypertensive, and antilipidemic properties that could be effective in the treatment of Metabolic syndrome (MetS) associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease events. Major compounds of G. biloba are terpene lactones (bilobalide and ginkgolides A, B, and C) and flavone glycosides (isorhamnetin, quercetin, and kaempferol). We evaluated the most relevant original articles to indicate the effects of G. biloba on different components of MetS, including obesity, high blood pressure, dyslipidemia, and hyperglycemia. Several electronic databases (Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science and Google Scholar) were searched and the articles that included Ginkgo's effect on one or more of the criteria for MetS were selected. This review indicated that G. biloba might be efficient in the improvement of MetS; however, more studies especially clinical trials are needed to evaluate safety and efficacy of G. biloba.
Equivalent clinical outcome after vitrified‐thawed blastocyst transfer using semi‐automated embryo vitrification system compared with manual vitrification method
Authors: Miwa Atsuko , Noguchi Yukiko , Hosoya Kayo , Mori Yuusuke , Sato Takuma , Kasahara Yuta , Hidaka Miwa , Hayashi Hiroshi
Published: February 2020

Purpose

This study compared Gavi®, an automated system for the equilibration and dehydration steps of vitrification, and a manual vitrification procedure in terms of effects on clinical outcomes.

Methods

The authors retrospectively compared survival rate, and clinical and perinatal outcomes after vitrified‐thawed single blastocyst transfer between Gavi® (G method) in 398 cases and Cryotop® (C method) in 208 cases.

Results

With C and G methods, survival rates were 98.6% (208/211) and 99.3% (398/401), total pregnancy rates were 34.3% (72/208) and 33.4% (133/398), and total miscarriage rates were 22.2% (16/72) and 24.8% (33/133), respectively. Among women <35 years old, pregnancy rates were 41.1% (30/73) and 40.5% (62/153) and miscarriage rates were 13.3% (4/30) and 16.1% (10/62) with C and G methods, respectively. Among women ≥35 years old, pregnancy rates were 31.1% (42/135) and 29.0% (71/245) and miscarriage rates were 28.6% (12/42) and 32.4% (23/71) with C and G methods, respectively. C and G methods showed no significant differences in any trials, including gestational age, cesarean section rate, or birthweight (P > .05 each).

Conclusions

Gavi® showed comparable clinical outcomes to the manual vitrification method and can be considered an alternative vitrification procedure in assisted reproductive technology.
Governing Artificial Intelligence to benefit the UN Sustainable Development Goals
Authors: Truby Jon
Published: February 2020

Big Tech's unregulated roll‐out out of experimental AI poses risks to the achievement of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with particular vulnerability for developing countries. The goal of financial inclusion is threatened by the imperfect and ungoverned design and implementation of AI decision‐making software making important financial decisions affecting customers. Automated decision‐making algorithms have displayed evidence of bias, lack ethical governance, and limit transparency in the basis for their decisions, causing unfair outcomes and amplify unequal access to finance. Poverty reduction and sustainable development targets are risked by Big Tech's potential exploitation of developing countries by using AI to harvest data and profits. Stakeholder progress toward preventing financial crime and corruption is further threatened by potential misuse of AI. In the light of such risks, Big Tech's unscrupulous history means it cannot be trusted to operate without regulatory oversight. The article proposes effective pre‐emptive regulatory options to minimize scenarios of AI damaging the SDGs. It explores internationally accepted principles of AI governance, and argues for their implementation as regulatory requirements governing AI developers and coders, with compliance verified through algorithmic auditing. Furthermore, it argues that AI governance frameworks must require a benefit to the SDGs. The article argues that proactively predicting such problems can enable continued AI innovation through well‐designed regulations adhering to international principles. It highlights risks of unregulated AI causing harm to human interests, where a public and regulatory backlash may result in over‐regulation that could damage the otherwise beneficial development of AI.
Two‐part hidden Markov models for semicontinuous longitudinal data with nonignorable missing covariates
Authors: Zhou Xiaoxiao , Kang Kai , Song Xinyuan
Published: February 2020

This study develops a two‐part hidden Markov model (HMM) for analyzing semicontinuous longitudinal data in the presence of missing covariates. The proposed model manages a semicontinuous variable by splitting it into two random variables: a binary indicator for determining the occurrence of excess zeros at all occasions and a continuous random variable for examining its actual level. For the continuous longitudinal response, an HMM is proposed to describe the relationship between the observation and unobservable finite‐state transition processes. The HMM consists of two major components. The first component is a transition model for investigating how potential covariates influence the probabilities of transitioning from one hidden state to another. The second component is a conditional regression model for examining the state‐specific effects of covariates on the response. A shared random effect is introduced to each part of the model to accommodate possible unobservable heterogeneity among observation processes and the nonignorability of missing covariates. A Bayesian adaptive least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (lasso) procedure is developed to conduct simultaneous variable selection and estimation. The proposed methodology is applied to a study on the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative dataset. New insights into the pathology of Alzheimer's disease and its potential risk factors are obtained.
High Molecular Weight Biosurfactants from Mild Chemical Reactions of Fermented Municipal Biowastes
Authors: Montoneri Enzo> , Fabbri Gloria , Quagliotto Pierluigi , Baglieri Andrea , Padoan Elio , Boero Valter , Negre Michèle
Published: February 2020

Two hydrolysates obtained from anaerobic digestate and compost of a municipal bio‐waste treatment plant have been ozonizated at room temperature. This reaction yields two main products: biopolymers (30 % yield) whith molecular weights ranging from 100 to over 750 kDa, exhibiting remarkable surfactant properties, and small molecules with molecular weight ≤0.2⊥⊥kDa. The ozonised biopolymers have significantly different molecular weight distribution and much better surfactant properties compared to the pristine biopolymers. Their potential market value is estimated from 1.5 to 150 € kg−1 by comparison with commercial products. The small molecules are the bio‐based counterpart of commercial chemicals obtained from fossil sources. Their market value ranges from 0.6 to 3 € kg−1. Perspectives are discussed for the development of a bio‐based chemical industry built on the integration of biochemical and mild chemical technologies to convert biomass to value added products, and compared to the current model based on biochemical technology coupled to lignin incineration or pyrolysis.
Palladium(0)‐Catalyzed Rearrangement of Allylic Esters
Authors: Jessen Bo M. , Ondozabal Jun Miyatake , Pedersen Christian Marcus , Sølvhøj Amanda , Taarning Esben , Madsen Robert
Published: February 2020

The palladium‐catalyzed transposition of allylic esters is usually performed with a rather high loading of a palladium(II) catalyst. In the present investigation, a palladium(0) catalyst is developed for rearranging methyl 2‐acyloxybut‐3‐enoates into the corresponding methyl 4‐acyloxycrotonates. The transformation is performed at room temperature with 2% of Pd(PPh3)4 and gives good yields with acetate, benzoate and propanoate esters. Methyl 2‐(methoxycarbonyloxy)but‐3‐enoate, on the other hand, is rearranged into methyl 4‐methoxycrotonate due to decarboxylation of the released methyl carbonate into methoxide. The mechanism for the transposition of methyl 2‐acetoxybut‐3‐enoate was investigated in two separate crossover experiments and shown to proceed by formation of the intermediate π‐allyl palladium(II) complex, which is then attacked by acetate in an intermolecular fashion.
Stable Sodium Metal Batteries via Manipulation of Electrolyte Solvation Structure
Authors: Wang Shiyang , Chen Yawei , Jie Yulin , Lang Shuangyan , Song Junhua , Lei Zhanwu , Wang Shuai , Ren Xiaodi , Wang Dong , Li Xiaolin , Cao Ruiguo , Zhang Genqiang , Jiao Shuhong
Published: February 2020

Sodium metal batteries have attracted rapidly rising attention due to their low cost and high energy densities. However, the instability and low efficiency of metallic sodium anodes pose significant concerns for their practical applications. Here a highly stable sodium metal anode enabled by an ether‐based electrolyte is reported, which exhibits a long‐term stable cycling up to 400 cycles and achieves an unprecedentedly average Coulombic efficiency of over ≈99.93%. It is revealed that the organic/inorganic hybrid structure containing B–O species and NaF in the ultrathin solid‐electrolyte interphase layer plays the key role for the outstanding electrochemical performances. Furthermore, a Na||Na3V2(PO4)3 full cell successfully achieves a stable cycling performance that paves the way for the development of sodium metal batteries.
cPLA2α reversibly regulates different subsets of cancer stem cells transformation in cervical cancer
Authors: He Yuchao , Xiao Manyu , Fu Hui , Chen Lu , Qi Lisha , Liu Dongming , Guo Piao , Chen Liwei , Luo Yi , Xiao Huiting , Zhang Ning , Guo Hua
Published: February 2020

Cervical cancer stem cells (CCSCs) are considered major causes of chemoresistance/radioresistance and metastasis. Although several cell surface antigens have been identified in CCSCs, these markers vary among tumors because of CSC heterogeneity. However, whether these markers specifically distinguish CCSCs with different functions is unclear. Here, we demonstrated that CCSCs exist in two biologically distinct phenotypes characterized by different levels of cytosolic phospholipase A2α (cPLA2α) expression. Overexpression of cPLA2α results in a CD44+CD24− phenotype associated with mesenchymal traits, including increased invasive and migration abilities, whereas CCSCs with cPLA2α downregulation express CD133 and show quiescent epithelial characteristics. In addition, cPLA2α regulates the reversible transition between mesenchymal and epithelial CCSC states through PKCζ, an atypical protein kinase C, which governs cancer cell state changes and the maintenance of various embryonic stem cell characteristics, further inhibiting β-catenin-E-cadherin interaction in membrane and promoting β-catenin translocation into the nucleus to affect the transcriptional regulation of stemness signals. We propose that reversible transitions between mesenchymal and epithelial CCSC states regulated by cPLA2α are necessary for cervical cancer metastasis and recurrence. Thus, cPLA2α might be an attractive therapeutic target for eradicating different states of CCSCs to eliminate tumors more effectively.
Differential effects of heat-inactivated, secretome-deficient MSC and metabolically active MSC in sepsis and allogenic heart transplantation
Authors: Weiss Andreas R. R. , Lee Olivia , Eggenhofer Elke , Geissler Elisabeth , Korevaar Sander S. , Soeder Yorick , Schlitt Hans J. , Geissler Edward K. , Hoogduijn Martin J. , Dahlke Marc H.
Published: February 2020

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are used in various clinical and preclinical models for immunomodulation. However, it remains unclear how the immunomodulatory effect of MSC is communicated. MSC-induced immunomodulation is known to be mediated through both MSC-secreted cytokines and direct cell-cell interactions. Recently, it has been demonstrated that metabolically inactive, heat-inactivated MSCs (HI-MSCs) have similar anti-inflammatory capacities in LPS-induced sepsis compared with viable MSC. To further investigate the immunomodulatory effects of MSC, we introduced MSC and HI-MSC in two animal models with different immunological causes. In the first model, allogeneic hearts were transplanted from C57BL/6 mice to BALB/c recipients. MSC in combination with mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) significantly improved graft survival compared with MMF alone, whereas the application of HI-MSC had no effect on graft survival. We revealed that control MSC dose-dependently inhibited CD3+ and CD8+ T-cell proliferation in vitro, whereas HI-MSC had no effect. In the second model, sepsis was induced in mice via cecal ligation and puncture. HI-MSC treatment significantly improved the overall survival, whereas control MSCs had no effect. in vitro studies demonstrated that HI-MSCs are more effectively phagocytosed by monocytes than control MSCs and induced cell death in particular of activated CD16+ monocytes, which may explain the immune protective effect of HI-MSC in the sepsis model. The results of our study demonstrate that MSC-mediated immunomodulation in sepsis is dependent on a passive recognition of MSC by monocytes, whereas fully functional MSCs are required for inhibition of T-cell-mediated allograft rejection.
Effect of reaction temperature and reaction time on the structure and properties of MoS2 synthesized by hydrothermal method
Authors: Xuan Tran Thanh , Long Le Ngoc , Van Khai Tran
Published: February 2020

In this study, molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) nanostructures were synthesized by a facile hydrothermal process, using ammonium heptamolybdate tetrahydrate ((NH4)6Mo7O24.4H2O) and thiourea (CH4N2S) as the reactants. The effects of experimental parameters including reaction temperatures and reaction times on the structure and morphology of MoS2 have primarily been investigated. The morphology, microstructure, chemical composition and optical properties of as‐synthesized MoS2 were characterized using field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDS), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Raman and Photoluminescence spectroscopy. The FESEM and TEM results indicate that depending on the reaction temperature, the three types of morphologies of MoS2 crystals could be obtained. Morphologies of MoS2 changed gradually from aggregated particles to flake‐like structure, then finally to nanosheet morphology with increasing reaction temperature from 160 to 220 oC. However, it was found that the reaction time contributed significantly to the restacking and refinement of MoS2 crystal structure, rather than affecting the morphology of the investigated samples. Both XRD and Raman investigations reveal that the as‐synthesized MoS2 has a hexagonal phase structure (2H‐MoS2). Interestingly, the as‐prepared MoS2 nanosheets exhibit photoluminescence in the visible range with the emitted photon energy of ~1.81 and ~1.95 eV, these properties make MoS2 a promising candidate as the material of choice for next‐generation optoelectronic and photonic devices.
Next generation 3D pharmacophore modeling
Authors: Schaller David , Šribar Dora , Noonan Theresa , Deng Lihua , Nguyen Trung Ngoc , Pach Szymon , Machalz David , Bermudez Marcel , Wolber Gerhard
Published: February 2020

3D pharmacophore models are three‐dimensional ensembles of chemically defined interactions of a ligand in its bioactive conformation. They represent an elegant way to decipher chemically encoded ligand information and have therefore become a valuable tool in drug design. In this review, we provide an overview on the basic concept of this method and summarize key studies for applying 3D pharmacophore models in virtual screening and mechanistic studies for protein functionality. Moreover, we discuss recent developments in the field. The combination of 3D pharmacophore models with molecular dynamics simulations could be a quantum leap forward since these approaches consider macromolecule–ligand interactions as dynamic and therefore show a physiologically relevant interaction pattern. Other trends include the efficient usage of 3D pharmacophore information in machine learning and artificial intelligence applications or freely accessible web servers for 3D pharmacophore modeling. The recent developments show that 3D pharmacophore modeling is a vibrant field with various applications in drug discovery and beyond.

This article is categorized under:

Computer and Information Science > Chemoinformatics

Computer and Information Science > Computer Algorithms and Programming

Molecular and Statistical Mechanics > Molecular Interactions
Introduction to the Conceptualisation of Environmental Citizenship for Twenty-First-Century Education
Authors: Hadjichambis Andreas Ch. , Reis Pedro
Published: February 2020

Environmental Citizenship has been an influential concept in many different arenas. Education and especially environmental discourses in science education have a lot to contribute in adopting and promoting Environmental Citizenship. Τhe roots of Environmental Citizenship derived from the political science arena are examined in this chapter. In addition, the conceptualisation of Environmental Citizenship in educational context is discussed. Furthermore, the relevance of Environmental Citizenship in types of education such as science education (SE), environmental education (EE), Education for Sustainability (EfS) and citizenship education (CE) is explored. Each type of education has something important to contribute to Environmental Citizenship through its specific approaches, dimensions and practices. In addition, the European Network for Environmental Citizenship (ENEC) as a community of practice is presented as well as the main definitions regarding Environmental Citizenship (EC), Education for Environmental Citizenship (EEC) and Environmental Citizen (ECn). Finally, the main focus of each part and chapter of the book will be summarised.
Light Dark Matter from Entropy Dilution
Authors: Evans Jared A. , Ghalsasi Akshay , Gori Stefania , Tammaro Michele , Zupan Jure
Published: February 2020

Abstract

We show that a thermal relic which decouples from the standard model (SM) plasma while relativistic can be a viable dark matter (DM) candidate, if the decoupling is followed by a period of entropy dilution that heats up the SM, but not the dark sector. Such diluted hot relics can be as light as few keV, while accounting for the entirety of the DM, and not conflicting with cosmological and astrophysical measurements. The requisite dilution can be achieved via decays of a heavy state that dominates the energy budget of the universe in the early matter dominated era. The heavy state decays into the SM particles, heats up the SM plasma, and dilutes the hidden sector. The interaction required to equilibrate the two sectors in the early universe places a bound on the maximum possible dilution as a function of the decoupling temperature. As an example of diluted hot relic DM we consider a light Dirac fermion with a heavy dark photon mediator. We present constraints on the model from terrestrial experiments (current and future), astrophysics, and cosmology.
Investigation of Complex ϕ4 Theory at Finite Density in Two Dimensions Using TRG
Authors: Kadoh Daisuke , Kuramashi Yoshinobu , Nakamura Yoshifumi , Sakai Ryo , Takeda Shinji , Yoshimura Yusuke
Published: February 2020

Abstract

We study the two-dimensional complex ϕ4 theory at finite chemical potential using the tensor renormalization group. This model exhibits the Silver Blaze phenomenon in which bulk observables are independent of the chemical potential below the critical point. Since it is expected to be a direct outcome of an imaginary part of the action, an approach free from the sign problem is needed. We study this model systematically changing the chemical potential in order to check the applicability of the tensor renormalization group to the model in which scalar fields are discretized by the Gaussian quadrature. The Silver Blaze phenomenon is successfully confirmed on the extremely large volume V = 10242 and the results are also ensured by another tensor network representation with a character expansion.
Spatial–Temporal Evolution of Drought Characteristics Over Hungary Between 1961 and 2010
Authors: Alsafadi K. , Mohammed S. A. , Ayugi B. , Sharaf M. , Harsányi E.
Published: February 2020

Historically, Hungary has witnessed numerous waves of drought episodes, causing significant agro-economic loss. Over the recent decades, the intensity, severity and frequency of drought occurrence have dramatically shifted, with undisputable upward tendencies across many areas. Thus, the main aim of this study was to characterize drought trends, intensity and duration over Hungary during 1961–2010. To attain the study goals, the present analyses utilized climate datasets obtained from Climate of the Carpathian region project-CARPATCLIM for 1045 gridded points covering entire Hungary. Meanwhile, a well-known drought index, namely; standardized precipitation index (SPI) and the standardized precipitation evapotranspiration index (SPEI) at 12-month timescales were employed for drought characterization. Furthermore, the sub-set regions of drought in Hungary were identified using S-mode of the principal component analysis. The Mann–Kendall trend test analysis showed a significant negative SPI-12 trend (P < 0.05) in 11.5% of the total points over the western part of Hungary. In comparison, 43.2% of the total numbers of the SPEI-12 time series gridded points showed a significant negative trend (P < 0.05) over the similar locale. However, both indices’ trends highlighted the fact that the northeastern region is less sensitive to drought despite experiencing the highest of total drought duration. Results also suggested that the SPI-12 indicates that no significant change can be detected from 1961 to 2010 over Hungary. In contrast, the SPEI-12 exhibits that the drought waves that hit Hungary were more pronounced, with a significant positive (P < 0.05) trend of + 1.4% per decade being detected for the area affected by very extreme drought. All in all, this study is one of the primary steps toward a better understanding of drought vulnerability assessment in Hungary.