bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Elaboration of a General Approach to the Asymmetric Synthesis of 1,4‐Substituted 1,2,3‐Triazole Containing Amino Acids via Ni(II) Complexes
Authors: Larionov Vladimir A. , Adonts Hovhannes V. , Gugkaeva Zalina T. , Smol'yakov Alexander F. , Saghyan Ashot S. , Miftakhov Mansur S. , Kuznetsova Svetlana A. , Maleev Victor I. , Belokon Yuri N.
Published: April 2018

Herein we report a general method of the asymmetric synthesis of 1,4‐substituted 1,2,3‐triazole containing amino acids via copper(I) iodide catalyzed “click reaction” between azides and chiral Ni(II) complexes of Schiff bases of (S)‐ or (R)‐BPB with alkyne side chain derivatised amino acids. The final Ni(II) complexes were decomposed with aqueous HCl and the 1,4‐substituted 1,2,3‐triazole containing amino acids isolated with excellent enantioselectivities (>99% ee). The chiral auxiliary ligand (BPB=N‐benzyl proline benzophenone) can be recycled and reused for the synthesis of starting Ni(II) complexes.
Adsorption and Decomposition of DMMP on Size‐Selected (WO3)3 Clusters
Authors: Tang Xin , Hicks Zachary , Ganteför Gerd , Eichhorn Bryan W. , Bowen Kit H.
Published: April 2018

The adsorption and decomposition behaviors of dimethyl methylphosphate (DMMP) on size‐selected (WO3)3 clusters were studied by a combination of X‐ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS) and Temperature Programmed Reaction (TPR). The fate of DMMP adsorbed on (WO3)3 clusters was found to be very similar to its fate on (MoO3)3. In contrast to DMMP on (MoO3)3, however, dimethyl ether was observed as a product in the reaction of DMMP with (WO3)3, in addition to methanol, due to the higher Lewis acidity of (WO3)3 clusters as compared to (MoO3)3.
Structural Related Effects of Natural Steroid Molecules on Cholesterol Crystallization in Model Bile and Ethanol
Authors: Jing Jie , Wei Tongxin , Su Wenqiang , Liu Yonghai , Yao Weiwei , Zhu Huaxu , Fu Tingming
Published: April 2018

The purpose of the present experiment is to study the different effects of natural steroid molecules (NSM) on the crystallization of cholesterol in model bile and ethanol. Three natural steroids (stigmasterol, β‐sitosterol, and ergosterol) were selected as model molecules. The supernatant and precipitated crystals collected from 95% ethanol and model bile were quantitatively analyzed by high‐performance liquid chromatography‐evaporative light scattering detection (HPLC‐ELSD), powder X‐ray diffraction, and differential scanning calorimetry, as well as scanning electron microscope, were conducted to understand the crystalline properties of a substance. Results show that Stigmasterol and β‐sitosterol can increase the solubility of cholesterol in specific mass ratios under 95% ethanol system, and lower the solubility of cholesterol in model bile. Ergosterol, on the other hand, has no significant effect on cholesterol crystallization. The reason for this phenomenon is that phytosterols are more similar in molecular structure to cholesterol and act as co‐precipitates with cholesterol in both systems.
A High‐Performance Flexible Supercapacitor Anode Based On Polyaniline/Fe3O4 Composite@Carbon Cloth
Authors: Kumar Meenu P. , Lathika Lekshmi M. , Mohanachandran Anjana P. , Rakhi Raghavan Baby
Published: April 2018

Herein, we report for the first time, the synthesis of a binder‐free flexible Polyaniline (PANI) and Iron Oxide (Fe3O4) nanocomposite (PANI/Fe3O4) electrode by the direct growth of active materials over carbon cloth. The carbon cloth substrate, with its three‐dimensional porous structure, provides more electrolyte accessibility and acts as an effective conductive pathway for efficient electrical transport between the active materials and the current collector. The PANI/Fe3O4 nanocomposite electrode exhibits a maximum specific capacitance of 365 F g−1 in a stable potential window ranging from −1 V to 0 V. Also it retains a cycling stability of 91% even after 4000 charge‐discharge cycles at a constant current density of 5 A g−1. These results indicate that PANI/Fe3O4 nanocomposite electrode has a significant potential as an inexpensive anode for future electrochemical energy storage systems.
Two New Compounds from Wedelia chinensis and Their Anti‐inflammatory Activities
Authors: Zhong Yuan‐Lin , Zhang Yu‐Bo , Luo Ding , Niu Qian‐Wen , Qin Juan , He Li‐Jun , Li Yao‐Lan , Wang Guo‐Cai
Published: April 2018

Two new compounds, 3α‐cinnamoyloxy‐15β,16β‐epoxy‐17‐hydroxy‐ent‐kauran‐19‐oic acid (1) and 4,5‐di‐O‐caffeoylquinic acid butyl ester (2), along with thirteen known compounds, 3α‐tigeloyloxy‐9β‐hydroxy‐ent‐kaura‐16‐en‐19‐oic aicd (3), 4,5‐di‐O‐caffeoylquinic acid methyl ester (4), 3,4‐di‐O‐caffeoylquinic acid me‐ thyl ester (5), 3,4‐di‐O‐caffeoylquinic acid butyl ester (6), 3‐O‐caffeoylquinic acid butyl ester (7), methyl caffeate (8), epifriedelanol (9), β‐D‐glucopyranosyl‐3‐O‐[β‐D‐xylopyranosyl‐(1→2)‐β‐D‐glucuro‐nopyranosyl] oleanolate (10), stigmasterol (11), stigmasterol‐3‐O‐β‐D‐glucopyranoside (12), kaempferol‐3‐O‐β‐D‐glucopyranoside (13), 7‐methoxyl‐kaempferol‐3‐O‐β‐D‐glucopyranoside (14), isoquercetin‐ 3‐O‐β‐D‐glucoside (15) were isolated from the whole plant of Wedelia chinensis (Compositae). Compounds 3–15 were isolated from this plant for the first time. Their structures were elucidated by extensive analyses of the spectroscopic data (IR, UV, HRESIMS, 1D and 2D NMR) and physicochemical properties. All of isolated compounds were evaluated for the anti‐inflammatory activity on LPS‐stimulated RAW264.7 cells. All tested compounds displayed inhibitory effects on LPS‐stimulated NO production, with IC50 values ranging from 6.45 ± 0.26 μM to 95.02 ± 2.54 μM.
Tween 20‐Assisted Synthesis of Uniform Mesoporous Silica Nanospheres with Wormhole Porosity for Efficient Intracellular Curcumin Delivery
Authors: Maqbool Qysar , Chanchal Abhishek , Srivastava Aasheesh
Published: April 2018

We report a green and straightforward protocol to prepare uniform mesoporous silica nanospheres (MSNs) as well as core/shell‐like spherical particles by utilizing small amounts of Tween 20, a biocompatible and biodegradable surfactant. Due to small amount of surfactant employed in the synthesis, these MSNs can be easily purified and readily dispersed in water. TEM analysis showed presence of wormhole‐like framework‐confined mesoporosity along with high surface area (upto 250 m2/g) in these MSNs. Size‐tunability of these nanospheres was achieved by simple variation of the ethanol:water ratio during the synthesis. Powder X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and low angle XRD, respectively, showed amorphous nature and similar pore ordering for all the samples prepared using this protocol. These MSNs showed effective, post‐synthetic uptake of model hydrophobic drug curcumin to yield stable aqueous dispersions. High biocompatibility and ready internalization by mammalian cells mainly through clathrin‐independent, caveolae‐ and lipid raft‐mediated endocytosis was observed for these MSNs. Efficient intracellular delivery of curcumin using these MSNs was achieved in MDA‐MB‐231 (Breast cancer) cells. Thus, this work offers facile protocol for synthesis of uniform and biocompatible MSNs with promising drug delivery capabilities.
Investigation of DNA Binding Activities of Peripherally 2,10,16,24‐Tetrakis Dimethyl 5‐(Phenoxy)‐Isophthalate‐Substituted Ni(II) Phthalocyanine Complex
Authors: Arslantas Ali , Agirtas Mehmet Salih
Published: April 2018

Peripherally 2, 10, 16, 24‐tetrakis dimethyl 5‐(phenoxy)‐isophthalate‐substituted Ni(II) phthalocyanine compound (Pc7) was previously synthesized and characterized. In this work, calf thymus DNA was used to specify DNA binding activities of Ni(II) phthalocyanine compound. DNA binding properties of Pc7 were studied using absorption titration, fluorescense spectroscopy, thermal melting temperature study, cyclic voltametry in a Tris‐HCl buffer solution. The results indicated that Pc7 can bind to CT‐DNA molecule through partial intercalation binding mechanisms. In addition to above methods, agarose gel electrophoresis and viscosity measurement were also conducted to confirm DNA binding activities activities of Pc7. The results of these methods indicated that Ni(II) phthalocyanine compound adheres to CT‐DNA partial intercalative binding mode. These results confirm that Ni(II) phthalocyanine compound may become potential therapeutic agent for cancerous cells due to its DNA binding features.
Hydrogen Degassing in a Vacuum Arc Degasser Using a Three‐Phase Eulerian Method and Discrete Population Balance Model
Authors: Karouni Faris , Wynne Bradley P , Talamantes‐Silva Jesus , Phillips Stephen
Published: April 2018

A three‐phase Eulerian model incorporating slag‐steel interactions to predict the rate of hydrogen removal from molten steel in a full‐scale industrial vacuum arc degasser (VAD) has been developed. The interfacial area for hydrogen transfer is calculated using a bubble population balance model. This accounts for bubble growth due to changes in hydrostatic pressure as well as coalescence and breakup. The predicted velocity field and bubble distribution are compared with experimental data in the literature. The bubble size predictions under atmospheric pressure conditions are sensitive to the initial bubble size, while under vacuum conditions they are relatively independent of the initial size. The omission of the slag layer from the model results in a 12% increase in the hydrogen removal rate. Variation in the slag eye diameter as a function of argon flowrate is simulated and compared with empirical correlations in the literature. Hydrogen measurements from a full‐scale VAD unit at Sheffield Forgemasters International Ltd. steelworks are compared to the model predictions for a series of melts of varying initial hydrogen content. Based on the initial hydrogen content of the liquid steel, the model predicts the amount of hydrogen removed to within ±20% of final experimental measurements obtained from the melt.
Properties of self‐compacting concrete containing copper slag aggregate after heating up to 400°C
Authors: Gong Wei , Ueda Takao
Published: April 2018

In this paper, the influence of heating up to 400°C on properties of the self‐compacting concrete containing recycled copper slag fine aggregate was investigated. The residual mechanical properties such as compressive strength, splitting tensile strength, elastic modulus, and stress–strain curve of the heated concrete were measured with the change in the porosity of concrete. Moreover, the resistance against the penetration of chloride ions (Cl−) into the concrete after the heating was also evaluated. For observing the micro‐structure around the fine aggregate in the concrete, scanning electron microscopy was employed. The experimental results showed that the compressive strength of the concrete decreased with the mixing of copper slag fine aggregate, although the residual compressive strength increased after heating up to 300°C with the rise in temperature. Mixing copper slag fine aggregate into concrete also reduced the residual elastic modulus and accelerated Cl− penetration into the self‐compacting concrete when the maximum temperature exceeded 200°C.
Validation of the Critical Shear Crack Theory for punching of slabs without transverse reinforcement by means of a refined mechanical model
Authors: Simões João T. , Fernández Ruiz Miguel , Muttoni Aurelio
Published: April 2018

Despite the intensive efforts dedicated in the last decades to better understanding punching shear failures, there is still no consensus on the mechanics governing this phenomenon and on how to implement it within a physical approach. In this paper, an analysis of recent detailed measurements on the kinematics and crack development associated with punching failures is presented. This allows classifying the observed cracks by their nature and to address their interaction and development on the eventual punching failure surface. On this basis, a complete mechanical model is formulated consistently with the principles of the critical shear crack theory (CSCT). This model generalizes previous approaches based on the CSCT by accounting for the various crack types and failure modes as well as for their associated kinematics. The generality of the model is verified by extensive comparisons to test data, showing accurate and consistent agreement. Its results are eventually used to investigate the role of the various potential shear‐transfer actions as well as the pertinence of the assumptions adopted to simplify the CSCT by describing its failure criterion with analytical expressions.
Structural selection and accuracy control of the large aperture fully steerable antenna
Authors: Liu Yan , Dai En‐bin
Published: April 2018

Taking the 110 m fully steerable antenna structure to be built in the future as the research platform, in order to improve the main reflector surface precision, traditional antenna structure performance and its influence mechanism on surface precision are systematically analyzed. Aiming at the disadvantages of traditional structure, a new scheme for fully steerable antenna structure with high efficiency is proposed. Based on the established overall structure scheme and investigation for several kinds of antenna optimization methods, the genetic algorithm is introduced and a series of its typical operators are improved for cross section optimization of back frame structure. Finally, after conceptual optimization for structure system and size optimization for cross section of back frame structure, the innovative scheme improves the main reflector surface precision significantly and its maximum could be reduced to 0.306 mm. Compared with the largest exiting antenna structure Green Bank Telescope in the USA, the innovative scheme for fully steerable antenna structure proposed realizes that reflector area increases 10%, main reflector surface precision improves 12.6%, the total structure weight decreases 40%, and its performance reaches the international advanced level. These achievements provide reference for structural design, construction, maintenance, and surface precision analysis of this kind of fully steerable antennae.
The Role of Mentoring, Coaching, and Advising in Developing Leadership Identity
Authors: Priest Kerry L. , Kliewer Brandon W. , Hornung Marcia , Youngblood R. J.
Published: April 2018

A changing world calls for leaders with the capacity for collaborative, socially responsible forms of leadership. The development of this capacity is connected to the growth of one's leadership identity. This chapter addresses how mentors, advisors, and coaches play a role in helping students formulate and grow in their leadership identity, and therefore their capacity for exercising leadership.
The Role of Mentoring in Leadership Development
Authors: Crisp Gloria , Alvarado‐Young Kelly
Published: April 2018

This chapter discusses the role of mentoring in facilitating leadership development for students throughout the educational pipeline. Related literature is summarized and practical guidance is provided for designing, implementing, and evaluating programs with a focus toward developing students as leaders.
The Role of Coaching in Leadership Development
Authors: Yarborough J. Preston
Published: April 2018

Leadership coaching can be productive in maximizing a leader's development. But to make leadership coaching work effectively for students, as opposed to executives, this chapter offers guidance on key concepts and practices from the Center for Creative Leadership's Coaching Framework.
The Role of Advising in Leadership Development
Authors: Chrystal‐Green Nancy E.
Published: April 2018

This chapter addresses the roles and responsibilities of advising; specifically, how advisors can cultivate both individual and group settings to be important teaching and learning environments and how to advise with leadership development in mind.
Perceived attachment security to parents and peer victimization: Does adolescent's aggressive behaviour make a difference?
Authors: Guedes Maryse , Santos António J. , Ribeiro Olívia , Freitas Miguel , Rubin Kenneth H. , Veríssimo Manuela
Published: April 2018

Peer victimization is one of the most prominent problems during adolescence. Research has distinguished aggressive and non‐aggressive victims; however, there are still significant drawbacks in understanding the social and family functioning of these different groups of victimized adolescents. This study aimed to compare social behavior and perceived attachment security to parents of Portuguese adolescents, classified as aggressive victims, non‐aggressive victims and non‐victims. The sample consisted of 222 adolescents (115 boys, 107 girls) who completed the Kerns Security Scale and the Extended Class Play, to assess perceived attachment security and social behavior, respectively. Controlling for age and sex, aggressive victims and non‐aggressive victims differed in anxious withdrawal but shared a similar profile in peer exclusion and prosocial behavior. Only aggressive victims reported lower attachment security to mother and father when compared to non‐victims. These findings underline that victimized adolescents constitute a heterogeneous group in terms of their social and family functioning.
Septic coxitis after an intramuscular injection in a young adult treated by two-steps total hip arthroplasty: a case report
Authors: Piolanti Nicola , Giuntoli Michele , Nucci Anna Maria , Bonicoli Enrico , Parchi Paolo Domenico , Scaglione Michelangelo
Published: April 2018

ABSTRACT

Introduction:

Septic arthritis of the hip is a rare condition in adults and its treatment depends on symptoms duration: early onset of infection can be treated with open or arthroscopic debridement, while more aggressive surgery is required when articular damage takes place such as articular resection or total hip replacement (THA).

Presentation of case:

We report a case of a 30 year old man affect by septic arthritis of the hip after an intramuscular injection of diclofenac successfully treated with a two-steps THA.

Discussion:

In literature there aren’t many cases of septic arthritis of the hip developed after intramuscular injections. Early onset of infection can be treated with an accurate articular debridement, while chronic conditions are traditionally treated by resection arthroplasty.

However resection arhtroplasty gives to the patients a significant leg length discrepancy and, especially in young adults, a two-steps surgery with the implant of THA can lead to good results, as reported in recent case series published.

Conclusion:

In our experience two-stage total hip arthroplasty proved to be a reliable solution for septic arthritis of the hip and may be used in patient with severe joint damage.

Furthermore we want underline importance of correct anamnesis to make quickly the right diagnosis and provide the right treatment of septic arthritis of the hip also in difficult clinical cases.

Highlights:
Toward a theory of supply chain fields – understanding the institutional process of supply chain localization
Authors: Wu Zhaohui , Jia Fu
Published: April 2018

When western multinational enterprises (MNEs) build end‐to‐end supply chains (SCs) to produce and distribute a product or deliver a service in emerging economies, the process is called supply chain localization. These companies encounter institutional environments with regulative, normative and cognitive characteristics very different from those in their home countries. SC localization uncovers and creates institutional voids; we argue that SC localization is a process of institutional change, requiring the MNE to build new institutional infrastructure. To the best of our knowledge, little is known about the institutional process of SC localization and its effects. We carry out a longitudinal case study to investigate SC localization of four MNEs in China. These MNEs are leaders of sustainable business practices in their industries, a distinction that highlights institutional voids in their SC settings. Based on the idea of fields in institutional theory, we build a mid‐range theory by introducing the notion of the supply chain field. Our study identifies and contextualizes the key elements of an SC field. It recognizes MNEs, government and semi‐government entities, and other participants as institutional actors who serve as architects and builders of the new SCs. We find that SC localization is an institutional process, taking place at both actor and field levels, where continuous ideation of new operations practices leads to structuring of the both the SC and SC field.
Unicompartmental knee replacement - An Underrated Alternative of Total Knee Replacement: A Matched Comparative Study Analysing Their Benefits and Risks in Local Population
Authors: Karson Tarn , Qun-Jid Lee , Yiu-Chung Wong
Published: April 2018

Introduction

The demand of knee arthroplasty is increasing worldwide with aging population. Even though unicompartmental knee replacement is associated with fewer complications namely stroke, myocardial infarction, thrombo-embolism, blood transfusion and mortality, it merely comprises 3–8% of knee arthroplasties. The aim of the study is to establish the role of unicompartmental knee replacement by evaluating the benefits and risks of unicompartmental knee replacement versus total knee replacement in Hong Kong population.

Methods

All unicompartmental knee replacement performed in our institute from 2011 to 2014 were reviewed. Comparative analyses were performed on pre-operative, operative and post-operative parameters. Primary total knee replacement performed in the same period was chosen as control group with 1:1 matching for age, sex, BMI and pre-operative range of motion.

Results

There were 46 unicompartmental knee replacement. It comprises 3.3% of all knee arthroplasties in our institute. The mean follow-up time was 12.8 months (4–38 months). There was no significant difference in all pre-operative parameters except WOMAC score. All operative parameters favored unicompartmental knee replacement significantly (operation time 76 vs 91 minutes; wound size 7.5 vs 12.4 cm; haemoglobin drop 0.75 vs 2.46g/dl, p < 0.05). Early post-operative parameters also favored unicompartmental knee replacement (Deep vein thrombosis rate 4.3 vs 23.9%; length of stay 5.4 vs 7.0 days, p < 0.05). There was no infection or mortality in both groups.

Conclusion

Because of less operative risk and faster rehabilitation, this study suggested that unicompartmental knee replacement is more cost effective and might be a better choice for patients with unicompartmental arthritis in local population.
Socio-Cultural Challenges of Family Planning Initiatives for Displaced Populations in Conflict Situations and Humanitarian Settings
Authors: Asgary Ramin , Price Joan T.
Published: April 2018

Provision of family planning services for refugee populations in conflict and humanitarian settings has been improving. Availability of services, however, does not translate into acceptability and uptake; understanding socio-cultural settings and barriers is critical to ensure utilization of services. Misconceptions and apprehensions surrounding family planning services are common. Populations may see limiting pregnancies as counterproductive in light of high child mortality or suspicious in the context of ethnic violence; larger family size has the perceived advantage of additional security for the community or ethnic group, assistance with family duties in a subsistence structure, and a social service investment for parents as they age; and there may be religious and moral objections to contraception. Any service planning and implementation must take into account community perceptions and address socio-cultural contextual subtleties. Ongoing community education via local initiatives from within the refugee community, region-wide structural strategies for service implementation and sustainability, and efforts to reconcile reproductive rights and family planning services within the religious and social context are crucial. (Disaster Med Public Health Preparedness. 2018;12:670-674)
A Scholar's Quest
Authors: March James G.
Published: April 2018

Modern portrayals of human action are overwhelmingly in a calculative and consequentialist tradition. Consequentialist reasoning is the basis for most of modern social and behavioral science and preeminently for economics. Action is seen as choice, and choice is seen as driven by anticipations, incentives, and desires. These ideas trace their roots at least to the Greeks, owe substantial parts of their modern manifestation to the formulations of Jeremy Bentham, and derive much of their contemporary power from the geniuses of L. J. Savage and John von Neumann.
Deliberating Life and Death: Paul's TragicDubitatioin Philippians 1:22–26
Authors: Holloway Paul A.
Published: April 2018

Dubitatiois a complex figure of speech in which a speaker explicitly weighs her or his options in the course of making a difficult decision.Dubitatiowas typically used to display a protagonist's character as revealed in her or his decision-making. In Philippians 1:22–26, Paul usesdubitatioto draw the readers into his deliberations whether to commit suicide in prison. In so doing, he not only reveals to them his own character but their character as well, in as much as it is their inordinate grief over his imprisonment that will ultimately determine Paul's decision.Dubitatiooccurs already in Homer, but it was made famous in Greek tragedy, where it largely defined the genre. The tragicdubitatiowas parodied in subsequent comedy and, by the Roman period, was beginning to appear in other genres, including political oratory, various poetic genres, history, and epistle. Paul's apt use ofdubitatioin Phil 1:22–26 shows an obvious familiarity with the figure. By attending to Paul's use ofdubitatioin Phil 1:22–26, we can arrive at a fresh and convincing interpretation of this challengingcrux interpretum.
Shamanism and efficacious exceptionalism
Authors: Blackwell Aaron D. , Purzycki Benjamin Grant
Published: April 2018

Shamans can have efficacy at healing through botanical remedies and in observational and advisory functions through cognitive strengths, while shamanic acts of strangeness are likely honest signals of these qualities. Given this potential for shamanic practices to have true efficacy and the capacity for honest signaling, we expect efficacy will influence the spread, persistence, and loss of shamanic practices.
Missing links: The psychology and epidemiology of shamanistic beliefs
Authors: Boyer Pascal
Published: April 2018

Singh provides the skeletal elements of a possible account of shamanism-like beliefs in many human societies. To be developed into a proper theory, this model needs to be supplemented at several crucial points, in terms of anthropological evidence, psychological processes, and cultural transmission.
Financial alchemists and financial shamans
Authors: Johnson Samuel G. B.
Published: April 2018

Professional money management appears to require little skill, yet its practitioners command astronomical salaries. Singh's theory of shamanism provides one possible explanation: Financial professionals are the shamans of the global economy. They cultivate the perception of superhuman traits, maintain grueling initiation rituals, and rely on esoteric divination rituals. An anthropological view of markets can usefully supplement economic and psychological approaches.
The social functions of shamanism
Authors: Watson-Jones Rachel E. , Legare Cristine H.
Published: April 2018

Cultural evolutionary accounts of shamanism must explain the cross-cultural recurrence and variation in associated practices. We suggest that Singh's account of shamanism would be strengthened by considering the social functions of shamanism in groups. Shamanism increases social group cohesion, making it distinct from other magico-religious practices.
Identifying the nature of shamanism
Authors: Winkelman Michael James
Published: April 2018

Singh conflates diverse religious statuses into a single category that includes practitioners with roles that differ significantly from empirical characteristics of shamans. The rejection of biological models of trance and conspicuous display models misses the evolutionary roots of shamanism involving the social functions of ritual in producing psychological and social integration and ritual healing.
BOUNDS ON EXTROPY WITH VARIATIONAL DISTANCE CONSTRAINT
Authors: Yang Jianping , Xia Wanwan , Hu Taizhong
Published: April 2018

The relation between extropy and variational distance is studied in this paper. We determine the distribution which attains the minimum or maximum extropy among these distributions within a given variation distance from any given probability distribution, obtain the tightest upper bound on the difference of extropies of any two probability distributions subject to the variational distance constraint, and establish an analytic formula for the confidence interval of an extropy. Such a study parallels to that of Ho and Yeung [3] concerning entropy. However, the proofs of the main results in this paper are different from those in Ho and Yeung [3]. In fact, our arguments can simplify several proofs in Ho and Yeung [3].
Moore's conjecture for polyhedral products
Authors: HAO YANLONG , SUN QIANWEN , THERIAULT STEPHEN
Published: April 2018

Moore's conjecture is shown to hold for generalised moment-angle complexes and a criterion is proved that determines when a polyhedral product is elliptic or hyperbolic.
Comparative evidence of the consumption from fast-food restaurants between normal-weight and obese Saudi schoolchildren
Authors: Alturki Hmidan A , Brookes Denise SK , Davies Peter SW
Published: April 2018

Objective

To provide an in-depth analysis of the relationship between obesity and fast-food consumption by comparing urban obese and normal-weight Saudi Arabian children.

Design

A multicentre cross-sectional study was conducted from December 2015 to March 2016. Participants were divided into two groups (normal weight and obese) and further stratified by sex. Groups were randomly selected using a multistage stratified cluster-sampling technique. A self-paced questionnaire was used to collect data relating to food consumption. Weight height and waist circumference were measured and bioelectrical impedance analysis was performed in all children.

Setting

Capital of Saudi Arabia, Riyadh.

Subjects

Children aged 9·00–11·99 years (n 1023).

Results

Compared with normal-weight groups, intake frequency of fast food/week was higher among the obese groups (P<0·001), irrespective of fast-food consumption outside (P<0·001) or inside (P<0·001) the home; and larger portion sizes were preferred in obese groups (P<0·001). Families eating fast-food meals together was a protective factor against obesity (OR; 95 % CI: 2·67; 1·44, 4·96, P<0·001), with similar results for families ordering from a ‘healthy meals menu’ for their children (1·90; 1·24, 2·90, P=0·002). Taste of fast foods (P=0·021), child-friendly menu (P=0·020) and meal cost (P<0·001) were identified as main reasons why parents took their children to fast-food restaurants; these data were replicated for parents with obese boys, but not girls.

Conclusions

Development of effective interventions to reduce fast-food consumption in Saudi Arabian schoolchildren requires greater research-based evidence of fast-food consumption habits and practices associated with increased childhood obesity.
“Thugs-for-Hire”: Subcontracting of State Coercion and State Capacity in China
Authors: Ong Lynette H.
Published: April 2018

Using violence or threat of violence, “thugs-for-hire” (TFH) is a form of privatized coercion that helps states subjugate a recalcitrant population. I lay out three scope conditions under which TFH is the preferred strategy: when state actions are illegal or policies are unpopular; when evasion of state responsibility is highly desirable; and when states are weak in their capacity or are less strong than their societies. Weak states relative to strong ones are more likely to deploy TFH, mostly for the purpose of bolstering their coercive capacity; strong states use TFH for evasion of responsibility. Yet the state-TFH relationship is functional only if the state is able to maintain the upper hand over the violent agents. Focusing on China, a seemingly paradoxical case due to its traditional perception of being a strong state, I examine how local states frequently deploy TFH to evict homeowners, enforce the one-child policy, collect exorbitant exactions, and deal with petitioners and protestors. However, the increasing prevalence of “local mafia states” suggests that some of the thuggish groups have grown to usurp local governments’ autonomy. This points to the cost of relying upon TFH as a repressive strategy.
ANOTHER ARITHMETIC OF THE EVEN AND THE ODD
Authors: SCHACHT CELIA
Published: April 2018

This article presents an axiom system for an arithmetic of the even and the odd, one that is stronger than those discussed in Pambuccian (2016) and Menn & Pambuccian (2016). It consists of universal sentences in a language extending the usual one with 0, 1, +, ·, <, – with the integer part of the half function$[{ \cdot \over 2}]$, and two unary operation symbols.
First Ionospheric Results From the MAVEN Radio Occultation Science Experiment (ROSE)
Authors: Withers Paul , Felici M. , Mendillo M. , Moore L. , Narvaez C. , Vogt M. F. , Jakosky B. M.
Published: April 2018

Radio occultation observations of the ionosphere of Mars can span the full vertical extent of the ionosphere, in contrast to in situ measurements that rarely sample the main region of the ionosphere. However, most existing radio occultation electron density profiles from Mars were acquired without clear context for the solar forcing or magnetospheric conditions, which presents challenges for the interpretation of these profiles. Here we present 48 ionospheric electron density profiles acquired by the Mars Atmosphere and Volatile EvolutioN mission (MAVEN) Radio Occultation Science Experiment (ROSE) from 5 July 2016 to 27 June 2017 at solar zenith angles of 54° to 101°. Latitude coverage is excellent, and comprehensive context for the interpretation of these profiles is provided by other MAVEN instruments. The profiles show a 9‐km increase in ionospheric peak altitude in January 2017 that is associated with a lower atmospheric dust storm, variations in electron densities in the M1 layer that cannot be explained by variations in the solar soft X‐ray flux, and topside electron densities that are larger in strongly magnetized regions than in weakly magnetized regions. MAVEN Radio Occultation Science Experiment electron density profiles are publicly available on the NASA Planetary Data System.
Direct observation of Ru-alkylidene forming into ethylene in ring-closing metathesis from hyperpolarized 1H NMR
Authors: Kim Yaewon , Chen Chia-Hsiu , Hilty Christian
Published: April 2018

With hyperpolarization and selective saturation, we identified an observable intermediate as Ru-alkylidene transferring its protons to ethylene in ring-closing metathesis.
Pd@TiO2/carbon nanohorn electrocatalysts: reversible CO2 hydrogenation to formic acid
Authors: Melchionna M. , Bracamonte M. V. , Giuliani A. , Nasi L. , Montini T. , Tavagnacco C. , Bonchio M. , Fornasiero P. , Prato M.
Published: April 2018

Direct conversion of carbon dioxide to formic acid at thermodynamic equilibrium is an advantage of enzymatic catalysis, hardly replicated by synthetic analogs, but of high priority for carbon-neutral energy schemes.
Effects of bovine lactoferrin onl-DOPA absorption and metabolism in mice
Authors: Ikeda Masayuki , Iijima Hiroshi , Shinoda Ichizo , Iwamoto Hiroshi , Takeda Yasuhiro
Published: April 2018

Bovine lactoferrin (bLF) inhibited catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) activity and enhanced concentrations of levodopa (l-DOPA) in mice by co-administration with carbidopa.
Exposure ofBacillus subtilisto silver inhibits activity of cytochromecoxidasein vivo viainteraction with SCO, the CuAassembly protein
Authors: Hussain Shina , Andrews Diann , Hill Bruce C.
Published: April 2018

Silver has long been used as an antimicrobial agent in general and medicinal use.
Ru(iii)–TMSO complexes containing azole-based ligands: synthesis and cytotoxicity study
Authors: Meiklejohn Victoria , Depan Dilip , Boudreaux Seth P. , Murru Siva , Perkins Richard S. , Fronczek Frank. R. , Srivastava Radhey S.
Published: April 2018

The reaction of mer-[RuCl3(S-TMSO)2(O-TMSO)] with azoles in dichloromethane produced the complexes mer-[RuCl3(S-TMSO)(pzH)2], mer-[RuCl3(S-TMSO)(O-TMSO)(pzH)], mer-[RuCl3(S-TMSO)(dmpzH)2], and mer-[RuCl3(S-TMSO)(O-TMSO)(dmpzH)].
A non-equilibrium Ti4+doping strategy for an efficient hematite electron transport layer in perovskite solar cells
Authors: Zhu Weidong , Zhang Qianni , Zhang Chunfu , Chen Dazheng , Zhou Long , Lin Zhenhua , Chang Jingjing , Zhang Jincheng , Hao Yue
Published: April 2018

Non-equilibrium Ti4+doping of the Fe2O3electron transporting layer can enable the dramatically improved efficiency of planar perovskite solar cells.
Solid-state-ligand-exchange free quantum dot ink-based solar cells with an efficiency of 10.9%
Authors: Aqoma Havid , Jang Sung-Yeon
Published: April 2018

Solid-state-ligand-exchange free high-efficiency colloidal quantum dot solar cells were developed by direct coating of n-type and p-type quantum dot inks.
Biofilm bacterial community transition under water supply quality changes in drinking water distribution systems
Authors: Ma Xu , Zhang Guangming , Li Guiwei , Wan Yunjie , Sun Huifang , Wang Haibo , Shi Baoyou
Published: April 2018

Water supply quality changes can cause significant biofilm bacterial community transformation in old iron drinking water distribution pipes.
Accelerating CALYPSO structure prediction by data-driven learning of a potential energy surface
Authors: Tong Qunchao , Xue Lantian , Lv Jian , Wang Yanchao , Ma Yanming
Published: April 2018

CALYPSO structure prediction is significantly accelerated by on-the-fly learning of a potential energy surface.
Structural characterization and antitumor activity of a novel Se-polysaccharide from selenium-enriched Cordyceps gunnii
Authors: Sun Huiqing , Zhu Zhenyuan , Tang Yali , Ren Yuanyuan , Song Qiaoying , Tang Yun , Zhang Yongmin
Published: April 2018

Selenium (Se) has been recognized as an essential element.
MALDI-TOF-MS characterization of N-linked glycoprotein derived from ginger with ACE inhibitory activity
Authors: Zhao Wenzhu , Chen Yuejiao , Xue Siyu , Yu Zhipeng , Yu Hanjie , Liu Jingbo , Li Jianrong , Chen Feng
Published: April 2018

Herein, the ability of ginger glycoproteins to inhibit the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) is characterized.
Production of functionalised chitins assisted by fungal lytic polysaccharide monooxygenase
Authors: Wang Damao , Li Jing , Salazar-Alvarez Germán , McKee Lauren S. , Srivastava Vaibhav , Sellberg Jonas A. , Bulone Vincent , Hsieh Yves S. Y.
Published: April 2018

The gene CCT67099 from Fusarium fujikuroi was shown to encode a novel enzyme from the Lytic Polysaccharide Monooxygenase (LPMO) Family AA11.
Microwave assisted one pot three component synthesis of propargylamine, tetra substituted propargylamine and pyrrolo[1,2-a]quinolines using CuNPs@ZnO–PTh as a heterogeneous catalyst
Authors: Shah Akshara P. , Sharma Anuj S. , Jain Shilpa , Shimpi Navinchandra G
Published: April 2018

A Cu@ZnO–PTh nanocomposite was synthesized and used as a heterogeneous catalyst for KA2 and A3 coupling, which is a highly efficient and green technique.
A pyridyl-benzimidazole based molecular luminescent turnstile
Authors: Godde Bérangère , Ritaine Dialia , Jouaiti Abdelaziz , Mauro Matteo , Hosseini Mir Wais
Published: April 2018

A molecular turnstile based on a luminescent pyridyl-benzimidazole stator and a rotor containing a pyridyl coordinating site may be reversibily switched between its open and closed states upon binding/unbinding of silver cations.
Deciphering the role of substrate stiffness in enhancing the internalization efficiency of plasmid DNA in stem cells using lipid-based nanocarriers
Authors: Modaresi Saman , Pacelli Settimio , Whitlow Jonathan , Paul Arghya
Published: April 2018

This study investigates the role of substrate stiffness in the non-viral transfection of human adipose-derived stem cells (hASCs) with the aim to maximize the hASC expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF).
A thioether-directed palladium-cleavable linker for targeted bioorthogonal drug decaging
Authors: Stenton Benjamin J. , Oliveira Bruno L. , Matos Maria J. , Sinatra Laura , Bernardes Gonçalo J. L.
Published: April 2018

We describe the development of a bifunctional linker that simultaneously allows site-specific protein modification and palladium-mediated bioorthogonal decaging.
Significant enhancement of the photovoltaic performance of organic small molecule acceptors via side-chain engineering
Authors: Su Wenyan , Fan Qunping , Guo Xia , Chen Juan , Wang Yan , Wang Xiaohui , Dai Ping , Ye Chennan , Bao Xiaoguang , Ma Wei , Zhang Maojie , Li Yongfang
Published: April 2018

The photovoltaic performance of PSC based on PTZ1 and IT-M is significantly improved by modulating side-chain architecture of IT-M from para-hexylphenyl to para-hexyloxylphenyl to meta-hexyloxylphenyl and a high PCE of 11.6% has been achieved.
Designing a reductive hybrid membrane to selectively capture noble metallic ions during oil/water emulsion separation with further function enhancement
Authors: Zhang Lei , Zha Xianhu , Zhang Gui , Gu Jincui , Zhang Wei , Huang Youju , Zhang Jiawei , Chen Tao
Published: April 2018

A reductive hybrid membrane successfully achieved preferential recovery of noble metal ions during oil/water emulsion separation with recyclability.
Structural insights into the nanomolar affinity of RING E3 ligase ZNRF1 for Ube2N and its functional implications
Authors: Behera Adaitya Prasad , Naskar Pritam , Agarwal Shubhangi , Banka Prerana Agarwal , Poddar Asim , Datta Ajit B.
Published: April 2018

RING (Really Interesting New Gene) domains in ubiquitin RING E3 ligases exclusively engage ubiquitin (Ub)-loaded E2s to facilitate ubiquitination of their substrates. Despite such specificity, all RINGs characterized till date bind unloaded E2s with dissociation constants (Kds) in the micromolar to the sub-millimolar range. Here, we show that the RING domain of E3 ligase ZNRF1, an essential E3 ligase implicated in diverse cellular pathways, binds Ube2N with a Kd of ∼50 nM. This high-affinity interaction is exclusive for Ube2N as ZNRF1 interacts with Ube2D2 with a Kd of ∼1 µM, alike few other E3s. The crystal structure of ZNRF1 C-terminal domain in complex with Ube2N coupled with mutational analyses reveals the molecular basis of this unusual affinity. We further demonstrate that the ubiquitination efficiency of ZNRF1 : E2 pairs correlates with their affinity. Intriguingly, as a consequence of its high E2 affinity, an excess of ZNRF1 inhibits Ube2N-mediated ubiquitination at concentrations ≥500 nM instead of showing enhanced ubiquitination. This suggests a novel mode of activity regulation of E3 ligases and emphasizes the importance of E3-E2 balance for the optimum activity. Based on our results, we propose that overexpression-based functional analyses on E3 ligases such as ZNRF1 must be approached with caution as enhanced cellular levels might result in aberrant modification activity.
A plasmid borne, functionally novel glycoside hydrolase family 30 subfamily 8 endoxylanase from solventogenic Clostridium
Authors: St John Franz J. , Dietrich Diane , Crooks Casey , Balogun Peter , de Serrano Vesna , Pozharski Edwin , Smith James Kennon , Bales Elizabeth , Hurlbert Jason
Published: April 2018

Glycoside hydrolase family 30 subfamily 8 (GH30-8) β-1,4-endoxylanases are known for their appendage-dependent function requiring recognition of an α-1,2-linked glucuronic acid (GlcA) common to glucuronoxylans for hydrolysis. Structural studies have indicated that the GlcA moiety of glucuronoxylans is coordinated through six hydrogen bonds and a salt bridge. These GlcA-dependent endoxylanases do not have significant activity on xylans that do not bear GlcA substitutions such as unsubstituted linear xylooligosaccharides or cereal bran arabinoxylans. In the present study, we present the structural and biochemical characteristics of xylanase 30A from Clostridium acetobutylicum (CaXyn30A) which was originally selected for study due to predicted structural differences within the GlcA coordination loops. Amino acid sequence comparisons indicated that this Gram-positive-derived GH30-8 more closely resembles Gram-negative derived forms of these endoxylanases: a hypothesis borne out in the developed crystallographic structure model of the CaXyn30A catalytic domain (CaXyn30A-CD). CaXyn30A-CD hydrolyzes xylans to linear and substituted oligoxylosides showing the greatest rate with the highly arabinofuranose (Araf)-substituted cereal arabinoxylans. CaXyn30A-CD hydrolyzes xylooligosaccharides larger than xylotriose and shows an increased relative rate of hydrolysis for xylooligosaccharides containing α-1,2-linked arabinofuranose substitutions. Biochemical analysis confirms that CaXyn30A benefits from five xylose-binding subsites which extend from the −3 subsite to the +2 subsite of the binding cleft. These studies indicate that CaXyn30A is a GlcA-independent endoxylanase that may have evolved for the preferential recognition of α-1,2-Araf substitutions on xylan chains.
Extracellular ATP activates hyaluronan synthase 2 (HAS2) in epidermal keratinocytes via P2Y2, Ca2+ signaling, and MAPK pathways
Authors: Rauhala Leena , Jokela Tiina , Kärnä Riikka , Bart Geneviève , Takabe Piia , Oikari Sanna , Tammi Markku I. , Pasonen-Seppänen Sanna , Tammi Raija H.
Published: April 2018

Extracellular nucleotides are used as signaling molecules by several cell types. In epidermis, their release is triggered by insults such as ultraviolet radiation, barrier disruption, and tissue wounding, and by specific nerve terminals firing. Increased synthesis of hyaluronan, a ubiquitous extracellular matrix glycosaminoglycan, also occurs in response to stress, leading to the attractive hypothesis that nucleotide signaling and hyaluronan synthesis could also be linked. In HaCaT keratinocytes, ATP caused a rapid and strong but transient activation of hyaluronan synthase 2 (HAS2) expression via protein kinase C-, Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II-, mitogen-activated protein kinase-, and calcium response element-binding protein-dependent pathways by activating the purinergic P2Y2 receptor. Smaller but more persistent up-regulation of HAS3 and CD44, and delayed up-regulation of HAS1 were also observed. Accumulation of peri- and extracellular hyaluronan followed 4–6 h after stimulation, an effect further enhanced by the hyaluronan precursor glucosamine. AMP and adenosine, the degradation products of ATP, markedly inhibited HAS2 expression and, despite concomitant up-regulation of HAS1 and HAS3, inhibited hyaluronan synthesis. Functionally, ATP moderately increased cell migration, whereas AMP and adenosine had no effect. Our data highlight the strong influence of adenosinergic signaling on hyaluronan metabolism in human keratinocytes. Epidermal insults are associated with extracellular ATP release, as well as rapid up-regulation of HAS2/3, CD44, and hyaluronan synthesis, and we show here that the two phenomena are linked. Furthermore, as ATP is rapidly degraded, the opposite effects of its less phosphorylated derivatives facilitate a rapid shut-off of the hyaluronan response, providing a feedback mechanism to prevent excessive reactions when more persistent signals are absent.