bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
THE USE OF THE UAV IMAGES FOR THE BUILDING 3D MODEL GENERATION
Authors: Vacca G. , Furfaro G. , Dessì A.
Published: July 2018

Abstract. The growing interest in recent years in Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) by the scientific community, software developers, and geomatics professionals, has led these systems to be used more and more widely, in different fields of engineering and architecture. This is thanks, above all, to their flexibility of use and low cost compared to traditional photogrammetric flights using expensive metric digital cameras or LiDAR sensors. In recent years, UAVs have also been used in the field of monitoring and inspection of public or private buildings that are remarkable in terms of size and architecture. This is mainly due to the focus a sustainability and resource efficiency in the building and infrastructure sector, which aims to extend their lifetimes. Through the use of remote checking using UAVs, the monitoring and inspection of buildings can be brought to a new level of quality and saving. This paper focuses on the processing and study of 3D models obtained from images captured by an UAV. In particular, the authors wanted to study the accuracy gains achieved in the building 3D model obtained with both nadir and oblique UAV flights. The images from the flights were processed using Structure-for Motion-based approach for point cloud generation using dense image-matching algorithms implemented in an open source software. We used the open source software VisualSfM, developed by Chanchang Wu in collaboration with the University of Washington and Google. The dense matching plug-in integrated in its interface, PMVS/CMVS, made by Yasutaka Furukawa, was employed to generate the dense cloud. The achieved results were compare with those gained by Photoscan software by Agisoft and with 3D model from the Terrestrial Laser Scanner (TLS) survey.
OVERCOMING DATA SCARCITY FOR ENERGY ACCESS PLANNING WITH OPEN DATA – THE EXAMPLE OF TANZANIA
Authors: Cader C. , Pelz S. , Radu A. , Blechinger P.
Published: July 2018

Abstract. The achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is heavily influenced by access to data: Data is necessary to assess the current status quo as well as to measure progress and to find opportune contextualized solutions for development challenges. Specifically, the lack of energy access (as defined in SDG7) is an immense bottleneck for development in Tanzania and considering spatial planning plays a crucial role in locating the most appropriate electrification solution for each site; taking into account not only its inherent characteristics, such as local demand for electricity and economic activities, but also external factors such as the distance to existing energy transmission and distribution infrastructure. Data in Tanzania is scarce, and this paper is an attempt to analyze the potential of open data sources to increase data availability to eventually provide improved foundation for decision making and investment flows for electrification planning. Results show that data quality of the given sources is sufficient for providing a novel level of disaggregated spatial information which can serve as an additional information stream for all involved stakeholders.From both perspectives, with national planning on the one hand and bottom-up initiatives on the other hand, it is important to understand the spatial aspects of any planning scheme to guarantee that a successful implementation phase will follow the planning stage.
INFACTORY: A RESTFUL API SERVER FOR EASILY CREATING INDOORGML
Authors: Jeong H. , Ryoo H. , Li K.-J.
Published: July 2018

Abstract. Recently, services and systems that deal with indoor spatial information are increasing. Each service or system adopts a data model that can store necessary indoor space data according to its purpose. However, since the content of indoor spatial information that can be expressed by each data model is differ and limited, it is necessary to exchange information between the systems in order to use rich indoor spatial data. OGC has published IndoorGML as the standard for exchange of indoor spatial information data between systems. To use IndoorGML as an exchange format, the software which supports IndoorGML construction is fundamental. But there are several limitations in the previous IndoorGML data editing tools. There is no editing tool that can generate all the features which are defined by IndoorGML. If users want to generate IndoorGML data, they need to consider the requirements of the IndoorGML. In this study, we implemented InFactory, which is a IndoorGML generation tool based on RESTful API supporting users to easily construct IndoorGML data. Users can easily create IndoorGML without knowledge on the schema and requirements of IndoorGML using InFactory. In addition, developers on IndoorGML data construction tools such as GUI editors do not have to implement duplicated IndoorGML generation program for their systems. Using Java API that supports CRUD on IndoorGML data, users can also deal with IndoorGML data in their applications.
Towards the unravelling of the slug A. ater–A. rufus complex (Gastropoda Arionidae): new genetic approaches
Authors: Peláez María L. , Valdecasas Antonio G. , Martinez Daniel , Horreo Jose L.
Published: July 2018

Abstract. The genus Arion includes several slug species, some of which are
considered to be a pest to both cultivated and wild flora. Within this genus,
the Arion ater complex comprises two different morphological forms:
Arion rufus and A. ater, but there is no consensus about
their species status. Their phylogenetic relationships have been recently
solved, both of them belonging to different phylogenetic clades, but their
species status is still unclear (as different clades are not always different
species). For this reason, the aim of this study was to precisely identify these species
status by employing the up-to-date multi-rate Poisson tree processes (mPTP)
methodology as well as the classic methodology of genetic distances, both of
which have three different mitochondrial genes. Results confirmed that both
A. ater and A. rufus are independent evolutionary clades,
and the high genetic distances between them (K2P distances ranged between 9.1
and 16.4 %, depending on genes) together with mPTP analyses, supported
the idea that the clades correspond to different species. Results will be
useful for the classification of these specific species as well as for
developing proper pest control methodologies and conservation policies in
both cultivated and wild plants.
Analyzing the temporal location of employment centers relative to residential areas in Cape Town: A spatial metrics approach
Authors: Tamuka Moyo Hazvinei Tsitsi , Zuidgeest Mark
Published: July 2018

The marginalization of low-income earners, in regard to access to economic activities, is a topical issue in South Africa. The location of residential areas relative to locations of employment plays a large role in determining how accessible employment opportunities are to individuals. This has led to several studies that look at the polarization of growth in places of economic activities in more affluent suburbs within the discourse of social exclusion and transformation. Since South African independence, several policies were drafted to address issues of segregation and social exclusion, among other issues. However, the question remains whether there has been progress in addressing these issues. This research applies landscape metrics to understand the growth trends in the spatial location of residential areas, relative to centers of economic activities, from 1995 (start of democracy) to 2013. The analyses reveal that high- and middle-income residential areas are typically located near commercial land uses. This explains the mixed land-use patterns that are found in middle-income residential areas. On the other hand, low-income residential areas were observed to be, dominantly, in large homogeneous and continuous patches.
Archaeological investigations of the Early Bronze Age burial site QA1 at Wadi al-Fajj in northern Oman: Results of the 2016 season
Authors: Rutkowski Łukasz
Published: July 2018

The first excavation season of a joint project of the PCMA and Department of Archaeology and Excavations, Ministry of Heritage and Culture, Oman, was carried out in the microregion of Qumayrah in the fall of 2016. A single tomb was investigated at an Umm an-Nar period burial site in the area of the village of Al-Ayn. A complete ground-plan was traced, identifying the tomb as an example of a well-known type with interior divided into four burial chambers by crosswalls. The excavated quadrant yielded commingled skeletal remains and mortuary gifts: numerous beads, a number of pottery sherds and a single complete vessel, a few metal objects and a score of stone vessel fragments.
Isaiah Berlin on Positive Freedom
Authors: Tutor Andrés ,   Philosophy Documentation Center
Published: July 2018

The aim of this article is to provide a critical examination of Berlin’s treatment of positive freedom by offering a review of his standard arguments against this concept. Throughout his essays and particularly in “Two Concepts of Liberty” Berlin connects the idea of positive freedom with such notions as monism, rationalism, and determinism. Each of these connections will be discussed separately. I will argue that most of Berlin’s arguments against positive liberty are somehow flawed. Although Berlin valued positive freedom as one of the ultimate ends of life, his critical view of the concept should be tempered and contextualized since it was mostly based not on logical or conceptual grounds but on historical and interpretative considerations.
Development and optimization of fast ablative pyrolysis technology in Ukraine
Authors: Zubenko Vitalii , Epik Alex , Antonenko Viacheslav
Published: July 2018

The article contains the aggregated results of the development and optimization of laboratory installation for ablative fast pyrolysis performance with productivity 1–4 kg/hour on final products. The experimental data on a series of experiments (>60) with analysis of the influence of a certain range of input parameters on the bio-oil yield and qualitative parameters of output products is presented. The optimization of installation regimes and input parameters for bio-oil yield maximization for different biomass types is performed. It was found that the ratio of three output products is not always optimal maximizing bio-oil yield with respect to energy yield in the products. The maximum achieved bio-oil yield is 51%, with the average level of 44% (by mass rated to the input products). It is revealed that the final bio-oil yield depends mainly on temperature in the reactor, time of biomass particles existence in the reactor, and biomass fraction. The mass distribution for pyrolysis by-products (pyrogas and biochar) is dependent on the initial moisture content of biomass and organization of the condensation process of bio-oil. The energy balance of installation demonstrates the average efficiency of the pyrolysis process on the level of 65% (with maximum 98%) and could be increased to 90% average with a simple reconstruction of installation. On the basis of obtained laboratory data, the scaling of the installation was performed with the development of a commercial prototype with the productivity of 50 kg/hour. On the basis of obtained technical data, the assessment of economic indicators of bio-oil and biochar production with large sized mobile installation has been performed demonstrating a good commercial feasibility of the installation performance.
Numerical prediction of mechanical properties of zirconium alloy with hydrides using finite element method
Authors: Janulionis Remigijus , Dundulis Gintautas , Kriūkienė Rita , Grybėnas Albertas
Published: July 2018

During nuclear power plant (NPP) operation, degradation effects like ageing, corrosion, fatigue, and others may significantly impact component integrity. One of the degradation mechanisms is hydrogen absorption. High levels of hydrogen in zirconium alloys can lead to the formation of zirconium hydrides and that can influence material properties. Therefore, determination of material properties under different levels of hydrogen concentration in zirconium alloys is important. It is not always possible to conduct an experimental testing. Therefore, there is a need for alternative methods for determination of material properties. This article presents the numerical prediction of material properties of zirconium 2.5% niobium alloy with hydrides.
According to the objective of the work, numerical prediction was performed using the finite element (FE) method. This was done by creating a finite element model of zirconium hydride embedded in zirconium alloy. The geometry and size of hydride were measured from a real specimen. The size of zirconium alloy surrounding the hydride was selected in such a way that hydride volume part in the model would match experimental measurements. The prognosis results were compared with the experimental data.
Akustinio kraštovaizdžio samprata ir jo tyrimų ypatumai
Authors: Skorupskas Ričardas , Jaruševičius Saulius
Published: July 2018

Straipsnyje nagrinėjama kraštovaizdžio garsinės aplinkos struktūra ir identifikuojamos akustinio kraštovaizdžio tyrimų kryptys. Pirmiausia nagrinėjami termino sampratos ypatumai, ypatingas dėmesys skiriamas akustinį kraštovaizdį formuojantiems veiksniams, analizuojama jo erdvinė struktūra, savybės ir garso raiška laiko aspektu. Taip pat identifikuojama ir analizuojama kraštovaizdžio garsų raiškos struktūra skirtingose geografinėse platumose bei vertikalaus zoniškumo srityse.
Be to, straipsnyje akcentuojami probleminiai klausimai, susiję su vienodas akustines savybes turinčių teritorinių vienetų – sonotopų – išskyrimu, pristatomos galimos kraštovaizdžio akustinės aplinkos tyrimų kryptys.
RHEOLOGICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF NANOCOMPOSITES BASED ON CLINOPTILOLITE AND LINEAR POLYETHYLENE OF LOW DENSITY
Authors: Kakhramanov Najaf T. , Koseva Neli S. , Kurbanova Rena V. , Bayramova Ilaha V. , Arzumanova Nushaba B. , Ismayilzade Arif D.
Published: July 2018

In the paper the results of the study of the influence of clinoptilolite concentration, shear stress and temperature on the effective viscosity, shear rate and activation energy of the viscous flow of nanocomposites based on linear low-density polyethylene were presented. It was shown that the in the composition of the natural mineral contains kaolinite or nanoclay. During the diffusion of macro chains into the interlayer space of nanoclays, the latter decays and the surfactant, exchanged cations or anions, stearates present there, as a result migrate into the polymer matrix and then, as lubricants, improve the flowability of the melt of the nanocomposite. For the first time it was shown that natural minerals of Azerbaijan belong to the number of bifunctional fillers, which contribute to the enhancement of polymer composites and, at the same time, improve the flowability of their melt. Rheological studies were carried out on the MELT FLOW TESTER, CEAST MF50 (INSTRON, Italy) capillary rheometer in the temperature range of 190-250 °C and the load of 2.16 -21.6 kg. The size of the nanoparticles of the composites was determined using the device model of STA PT1600 Linseiz, Germany, which varied from 14 to 110 nm. The nanoparticles of clinoptilolite were obtained in the analytical mill A-11 at the maximum rotor speed of 28,000 rpm. Flow curves of nanocomposites based on linear low density polyethylene and clinoptilolite were determined. It was established that introduction of 5% wt. clinoptilolite promotes an increase in shear rate 2.62 times. The results of the study of the influence of clinoptilolite concentration on the rheological and physico-mechanical characteristics of nanocomposites were presented. It was shown that when the concentration of clinoptilolite in the polymer matrix increases from 5 to 15 wt% the shear rate is somewhat reduced, but remains higher than that of the initial polyolefin.For citation:Kakhramanov N.T., Koseva N.S., Kurbanova R.V., Bayramova I.V., Arzumanova N.B., Ismailzade A.C. Rheological characteristics of nanocomposites based on clinoptilolite and linear polyethylene of low density. Izv. Vyssh. Uchebn. Zaved. Khim. Khim. Tekhnol. 2018. V. 61. N 7. P. 105-112
3D skeletal muscle fascicle engineering is improved with TGF-β1 treatment of myogenic cells and their co-culture with myofibroblasts
Authors: Krieger Jessica , Park Byung-Wook , Lambert Christopher R. , Malcuit Christopher
Published: July 2018

Background

Skeletal muscle wound healing is dependent on complex interactions between fibroblasts, myofibroblasts, myogenic cells, and cytokines, such as TGF-β1. This study sought to clarify the impact of TGF-β1 signaling on skeletal muscle cells and discern between the individual contributions of fibroblasts and myofibroblasts to myogenesis when in co-culture with myogenic cells. 3D tissue-engineered models were compared to equivalent 2D culture conditions to assess the efficacy of each culture model to predictively recapitulate thein vivomuscle environment.

Methods

TGF-β1 treatment and mono-/co-cultures containing human dermal fibroblasts or myofibroblasts and C2C12 mouse myoblasts were assessed in 2D and 3D environments. Three culture systems were compared: cell monolayers grown on 2D dishes and 3D tissues prepared via a self-assembly method or collagen 1-based hydrogel biofabrication. qPCR identified gene expression changes during fibroblast to myofibroblast and myoblast differentiation between culture conditions. Changes to cell phenotype and tissue morphology were characterized via immunostaining for myosin heavy chain, procollagen, and α-smooth muscle actin. Tissue elastic moduli were measured with parallel plate compression and atomic force microscopy systems, and a slack test was employed to quantify differences in tissue architecture and integrity.

Results

TGF-β1 treatment improved myogenesis in 3D mono- and co-cultures containing muscle cells, but not in 2D. The 3D TGF-β1-treated co-culture containing myoblasts and myofibroblasts expressed the highest levels of myogenin and collagen 1, demonstrating a greater capacity to drive myogenesis than fibroblasts or TGF-β1-treatment in monocultures containing only myoblasts. These constructs possessed the greatest tissue stability, integrity, and muscle fiber organization, as demonstrated by their rapid and sustained shortening velocity during slack tests, and the highest Young’s modulus of 6.55 kPA, approximate half the stiffness ofin situmuscle. Both self-assembled and hydrogel-based tissues yielded the most multinucleated, elongated, and aligned muscle fiber histology. In contrast, the equivalent 2D co-culture model treated with TGF-β1 completely lacked myotube formation through suppression of myogenin gene expression.

Discussion

These results show skeletal muscle regeneration can be promoted by treating myogenic cells with TGF-β1, and myofibroblasts are superior enhancers of myogenesis than fibroblasts. Critically, both TGF-β1 treatment and co-culturing skeletal muscle cells with myofibroblasts can serve as myogenesis accelerators across multiple tissue engineering platforms. Equivalent 2D culture systems cannot replicate these affects, however, highlighting a need to continually improvein vitromodels for skeletal muscle development, discovery of therapeutics for muscle regeneration, and research and development ofin vitromeat products.
Experimental and molecular approximation to microbial niche: trophic interactions between oribatid mites and microfungi in an oligotrophic freshwater system
Authors: Velez Patricia , Ojeda Margarita , Espinosa-Asuar Laura , Pérez Tila M. , Eguiarte Luis E. , Souza Valeria
Published: July 2018

Mite-fungal interactions play a key role in structuring core ecosystem processes such as nutrient dynamics. Despite their ecological relevance, these cross-kingdom interactions remain poorly understood particularly in extreme environments. Herein, we investigated feeding preferences of a novel genetic lineage of aquatic oribatids obtained from an oligotrophic freshwater system in the Cuatro Ciénegas Basin (CCB) within the Chihuahuan Desert, Mexico. During in vitro diet preference bioassays, transient aquatic microfungi (Aspergillus niger,Talaromycessp., andPleosporalessp.) recovered from the same mesocosm samples were offered individually and simultaneously to mites. Gut content was analyzed using classic plating and culture-independent direct PCR (focusing on the fungal barcoding region) methods. Our results indicated that oribatids fed on all tested fungal isolates, yet the profusely developingA. nigerwas preferentially consumed with all fungal components being digested. This feeding habit is particularly interesting sinceA. nigerhas been reported as an unsuitable dietary element for population growth, being consistently avoided by mites in previous laboratory experiments. It is possible that our mites from the CCB have adapted to exploit available resources within this oligotrophic site. This work confirms the trophic relationship between microfungi and mites, two rarely investigated major components of the microbial community, shedding light on the niche dynamics under low-nutrient conditions.
Regulation of synaptic release‐site Ca2+ channel coupling as a mechanism to control release probability and short‐term plasticity
Authors: Böhme Mathias A. , Grasskamp Andreas T. , Walter Alexander M.
Published: July 2018

Synaptic transmission relies on the rapid fusion of neurotransmitter‐containing synaptic vesicles (SVs), which happens in response to action potential (AP)‐induced Ca2+ influx at active zones (AZs). A highly conserved molecular machinery cooperates at SV‐release sites to mediate SV plasma membrane attachment and maturation, Ca2+ sensing, and membrane fusion. Despite this high degree of conservation, synapses – even within the same organism, organ or neuron – are highly diverse regarding the probability of APs to trigger SV fusion. Additionally, repetitive activation can lead to either strengthening or weakening of transmission. In this review, we discuss mechanisms controlling release probability and this short‐term plasticity. We argue that an important layer of control is exerted by evolutionarily conserved AZ scaffolding proteins, which determine the coupling distance between SV fusion sites and voltage‐gated Ca2+ channels (VGCC) and, thereby, shape synapse‐specific input/output behaviors. We propose that AZ‐scaffold modifications may occur to adapt the coupling distance during synapse maturation and plastic regulation of synapse strength.
Halophiles as Chassis for Bioproduction
Authors: Zhang Xu , Lin Yina , Chen Guo‐Qiang
Published: July 2018

Industrial biotechnology aims to solve the challenges of petroleum‐based production using microorganisms as catalysts. However, current industrial biotechnology suffers from high energy and fresh water consumption as well as difficult downstream purification. In addition, most industrial microorganisms are not resistant to other microbial contaminations, and this seriously compromises process effectiveness and the economy. The recently proposed “next‐generation industrial biotechnology” employs contamination resistant microorganisms, including alkaliphilic, acidophilic, thermophilic or halophilic bacteria, etc., for bioproduction. The most successful example is the use of halophilic bacteria as chassis for the production of chemicals, proteins, and biopolymers. This review summarizes some of the most recent studies to engineer the halophilic chassis Halomonas spp. for the production of chemicals, proteins, and several biopolyesters such as poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate), copolymers of 3‐hydroxybutyrate and 3‐hydroxyvalerate, and copolymers of 3‐hydroxybutyrate and 4‐hydroxybutyrate. The Halomonas chassis is also successfully engineered to change its morphology from short bars to long fibers and large spheres for convenient gravity separation. This simplifies the bioprocessing.
Stimuli‐Responsive Donor–Acceptor and DNA‐Crosslinked Hydrogels: Application as Shape‐Memory and Self‐Healing Materials
Authors: Wang Chen , Fadeev Michael , Vázquez‐González Margarita , Willner Itamar
Published: July 2018

Carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) chains are functionalized with self‐complementary nucleic acid tethers and electron donor or electron acceptor functionalities. The polymer chains crosslinked by the self‐complementary duplex nucleic acids and the donor–acceptor complexes as bridging units, yield a stiff stimuli‐responsive hydrogel. Upon the oxidation of the electron donor units, the donor–acceptor bridging units are separated, leading to a hydrogel of lower stiffness. By the cyclic oxidation and reduction of the donor units, the hydrogel is reversibly transformed across low and high stiffness states. The controlled stiffness properties of the hydrogel are used to develop shape‐memory hydrogels. In addition, CMC hydrogels crosslinked by donor–acceptor complexes and K+‐stabilized G‐quadruplexes reveal stimuli‐responsive properties that exhibit dually triggered stiffness functions. While the hydrogel bridged by the two crosslinking motifs reveals high stiffness, the redox‐stimulated separation of the donor–acceptor complexes or the crown‐ether‐stimulated separation of the G‐quadruplex bridges yields two alternative hydrogels exhibiting low stiffness states. The control over the stiffness properties of the dually triggered hydrogel is used to develop shape‐memory hydrogels, where the donor–acceptor units or G‐quadruplex bridges act as “memories”, and to develop triggered self‐healing process of the hydrogel.
Photocatalytic Neophyl Rearrangement and Reduction of Distal Carbon Radicals by Iminyl Radical‐Mediated C−C Bond Cleavage
Authors: Yu Xiao‐Ye , Wang Peng‐Zi , Yan Dong‐Mei , Lu Bin , Chen Jia‐Rong , Xiao Wen‐Jing
Published: July 2018

The control of selectivity in the reactions of the highly reactive open‐shell carbon radicals is an attractive but often challenging task. Building on the strategy of photoinduced iminyl radical‐mediated C−C bond cleavage, we have developed photocatalytic neophyl rearrangement and reduction of distal carbon radicals under visible light irradiation of O‐acyl oximes. This mild protocol tolerates a wide range of readily available O‐acyl oximes, enabling facile synthesis of diversely substituted α,β‐unsaturated nitriles and β‐functionalized saturated nitriles in a highly selective manner.

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3D Ferroconcrete‐Like Aminated Carbon Nanotubes Network Anchoring Sulfur for Advanced Lithium–Sulfur Battery
Authors: Yan Min , Chen Hao , Yu Yong , Zhao Heng , Li Chao‐Fan , Hu Zhi‐Yi , Wu Pan , Chen Lihua , Wang Hongen , Peng Dongliang , Gao Huanxin , Hasan Tawfique , Li Yu , Su Bao‐Lian
Published: July 2018

To address the serious capacity fading in lithium–sulfur batteries, a 3D ferroconcrete‐like aminated carbon nanotubes network with polyaniline coating as an effective sulfur host to contain polysulfide dissolution is presented here. In this composite, the cross‐linked aminated carbon nanotubes framework provides a fast charge transport pathway and enhancement in the reaction kinetics of the active material to greatly improve the rate capability and sulfur utilization. The ethylenediamine moieties provide strong adhesion of polar discharge products to nonpolar carbon surfaces and thus efficiently prevent polysulfide dissolution to improve the cycle stability, confirmed by density functional theory calculations. The outside polyaniline layers structurally restrain polysulfides to prevent the shuttle effect and active material loss. Benefiting from these advantages, the synthesized composite exhibits a high initial capacity of 1215 mAh g−1 and a capacity of 975 mAh g−1 after 200 cycles at 0.2 C. Even after 200 cycles at 0.5 C, a capacity of 735 mAh g−1 can be maintained, among the best performance reported. The strategy in this work can shed some light on modifying nonpolar carbon surfaces via the amination process to chemically attach sulfur species for high‐performance lithium–sulfur batteries.
Turbulent flow field in a stirred vessel agitated by an Impeller with flexible blades
Authors: Liang Yangyang , Shi Daien , Xu Bohang , Cai Ziqi , Gao Zhengming
Published: July 2018

In order to reveal the effect of the blades normal vibration on flow turbulence in the stirred vessel, we designed three kinds of blades: the flexible, flat‐rigid and curved‐rigid blades. The flow fields produced by the impellers with these three kinds of blades were measured by two‐dimensional particle image velocimetry. The results showed that the calculated turbulent kinetic energy (TKE) based on the pseudo‐isotropic assumption is slightly higher than that by the three fluctuating velocities for the flexible and curved‐rigid impellers, and the difference between above two calculations is smaller for the former impeller. For the flexible blades, the trailing vortices slightly move outwards in radial direction than those for the curved‐rigid blades, enhancing TKE transport from the blade to the bulk region of the vessel. For the flexible impeller, the phase‐averaged TKE differs slightly from that for the flat‐rigid impeller, but is higher than that for the curved‐rigid impeller. © 2018 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 64: 4148–4161, 2018
Surface Immobilization of Redox‐Labile Fluorescent Probes: Enabling Single‐Cell Co‐Profiling of Aerobic Glycolysis and Oncogenic Protein Signaling Activities
Authors: Li Zhonghan , Cheng Hanjun , Shao Shiqun , Lu Xiang , Mo Li , Tsang Jonathan , Zeng Pu , Guo Zhili , Wang Siwen , Nathanson David A. , Heath James R. , Wei Wei , Xue Min
Published: July 2018

An analytical method is described for profiling lactate production in single cells via the use of coupled enzyme reactions on surface‐grafted resazurin molecules. The immobilization of the redox‐labile probes was achieved through chemical modifications on resazurin, followed by bio‐orthogonal click reactions. The lactate detection was demonstrated to be sensitive and specific. The method was incorporated into a single‐cell barcode chip for simultaneous quantification of aerobic glycolysis activities and oncogenic signaling phosphoproteins in cancer. The interplay between glycolysis and oncogenic signaling activities was interrogated on a glioblastoma cell line. Results revealed a drug‐induced oncogenic signaling reliance accompanying shifted metabolic paradigms. A drug combination that exploits this induced reliance exhibited synergistic effects in growth inhibition.
Fluorescence Blinking Beyond Nanoconfinement: Spatially Synchronous Intermittency of Entire Perovskite Microcrystals
Authors: Pathoor Nithin , Halder Ansuman , Mukherjee Amitrajit , Mahato Jaladhar , Sarkar Shaibal K. , Chowdhury Arindam
Published: July 2018

Abrupt fluorescence intermittency or blinking is long recognized to be characteristic of single nano‐emitters. Extended quantum‐confined nanostructures also undergo spatially heterogeneous blinking; however, there is no such precedent in dimensionally unconfined (bulk) materials. Herein, we report multi‐level blinking of entire individual organo–lead bromide perovskite microcrystals (volume=0.1–3 μm3) under ambient conditions. Extremely high spatiotemporal correlation (>0.9) in intracrystal emission intensity fluctuations signifies effective communication amongst photogenerated carriers at distal locations (up to ca. 4 μm) within each crystal. Fused polycrystalline grains also exhibit this intriguing phenomenon, which is rationalized by correlated and efficient migration of carriers to a few transient nonradiative traps, the nature and population of which determine blinking propensity. Observation of spatiotemporally correlated emission intermittency in bulk semiconductor crystals opens the possibility of designing novel devices involving long‐range (mesoscopic) electronic communication.
Associations between socio‐economic status (including school‐ and pupil‐level interactions) and student perceptions of school environment and health in English secondary schools
Authors: Shackleton Nichola , Allen Elizabeth , Bevilacqua Leonardo , Viner Russell , Bonell Chris
Published: July 2018

This article examines interactions between school‐level and pupil‐level measures of socio‐economic status for pupil reports of the school environment and a range of risk behaviours and health outcomes. The baseline survey for the INCLUSIVE trial provided data on pupil affluence and pupil reports of the school environment, smoking, drinking, anti‐social behaviour at school, quality of life and psychological wellbeing for over 6,000 pupils (aged 11–12 years) in 40 schools within a 1‐hour train journey from central London. The level of socio‐economic disadvantage of the school was measured using the percentage of pupils eligible for free school meals. Multilevel regression models examined the association between pupil affluence, the socio‐economic composition of the school and the interaction between these with the school environment, risk behaviours and health outcomes. Our findings provide some evidence for interactions, suggesting that less affluent pupils reported lower psychological wellbeing and quality of life in schools with more socio‐economically advantaged intakes. There appears to be a complex relationship for anti‐social behaviour. Where pupil affluence and school socio‐economic composition were discordant, pupils reported a higher number of anti‐social behaviours. This article provides further evidence that less affluent pupils are more likely to engage in a variety of risk behaviours and experience worse health outcomes when they attend schools with more socio‐economically advantaged intakes, supporting some of the mechanisms described in the theory of human functioning and school organisation.
Best-practice care pathway for improving management of mastitis and breast abscess
Authors: Patani N , MacAskill F , Eshelby S , Omar A , Kaura A , Contractor K , Thiruchelvam P , Curtis S , Main J , Cunningham D , Hogben K , Al-Mufti R , Hadjiminas D J , Leff D R
Published: July 2018

Background

Surgical subspecialization has resulted in mastitis and breast abscesses being managed with unnecessary admission to hospital, prolonged inpatient stay, variable antibiotic prescribing, incision and drainage rather than percutaneous aspiration, and loss to specialist follow-up. The objective was to evaluate a best-practice algorithm with the aim of improving management of mastitis and breast abscesses across a multisite NHS Trust. The focus was on uniformity of antibiotic prescribing, ultrasound assessment, admission rates, length of hospital stay, intervention by aspiration or incision and drainage, and specialist follow-up.

Methods

Management was initially evaluated in a retrospective cohort (phase I) and subsequently compared with that in two prospective cohorts after introduction of a breast abscess and mastitis pathway. One prospective cohort was analysed immediately after introduction of the pathway (phase II), and the second was used to assess the sustainability of the quality improvements (phase III). The overall impact of the pathway was assessed by comparing data from phase I with combined data from phases II and III; results from phases II and III were compared to judge sustainability.

Results

Fifty-three patients were included in phase I, 61 in phase II and 80 in phase III. The management pathway and referral pro forma improved compliance with antibiotic guidelines from 34 per cent to 58·2 per cent overall (phases II and III) after implementation (P = 0·003). The improvement was maintained between phases II and III (54 and 61 per cent respectively; P = 0·684). Ultrasound assessment increased from 38 to 77·3 per cent overall (P < 0·001), in a sustained manner (75 and 79 per cent in phases II and III respectively; P = 0·894). Reductions in rates of incision and drainage (from 8 to 0·7 per cent overall; P = 0·007) were maintained (0 per cent in phase II versus 1 per cent in phase III; P = 0·381). Specialist follow-up improved consistently from 43 to 95·7 per cent overall (P < 0·001), 92 per cent in phase II and 99 per cent in phase III (P = 0·120). Rates of hospital admission and median length of stay were not significantly reduced after implementation of the pathway.

Conclusion

A standardized approach to mastitis and breast abscess reduced undesirable practice variation, with sustained improvements in process and patient outcomes.
The moral responsibility of corporate sustainability as perceived by fashion retail employees: a USA‐China cross‐cultural comparison study
Authors: Lee Stacy H.N. , Ha‐Brookshire Jung , Chow Pui‐Sze
Published: July 2018

Despite fashion consumers' desire to protect the environment and behave in a socially responsible manner, the reality of the environment within the fashion retail industry is far from sustainable, as evidenced by several infamous scandals that continue to afflict fashion businesses. Though corporate sustainability is gaining traction with both consumers and businesses, the USA and China may exist in different institutional contexts in regard to corporate sustainability. Consequently, this study was designed to understand the differences in employees' perceptions toward corporate sustainability, and how employees in fashion retail businesses engage in organizational citizenship behaviour in the USA and China. By using a sample of 615 fashion retail employees from the USA and China, this study conducted Multivariate Analysis of Variance and multiple linear regression analyses to determine the differences between these two countries and their demographic characteristics. The study found that employees in China revealed a greater preference for transparency in production and operation than did US employees. The importance of corporate sustainability yielded quite opposite results according to age and gender differences. Overall, this study found that both US and Chinese employees perceived sustainability to be highly important for corporations to achieve, but only US employees were engaged in organizational citizenship behaviour with the influence of their MRCS. Hence, this study's findings provide better insight for global fashion retail businesses in that they may have to exercise different strategies to achieve corporate sustainability in different countries, as the employees might have different levels of moral expectations based on their country of employment.
Mechanism of BRAF Activation through Biochemical Characterization of the Recombinant Full‐Length Protein
Authors: Cope Nicholas , Candelora Christine , Wong Kenneth , Kumar Sujeet , Nan Haihan , Grasso Michael , Novak Borna , Li Yana , Marmorstein Ronen , Wang Zhihong
Published: July 2018

BRAF kinase plays an important role in mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling and harbors activating mutations in about half of melanomas and in a smaller percentage in many other cancers. Despite its importance, few in vitro studies have been performed to characterize the biochemical properties of full‐length BRAF. Herein, a strategy to generate an active, intact form of BRAF protein suitable for in vitro enzyme kinetics is described. It is shown that purified, intact BRAF protein autophosphorylates the kinase activation loop and this can be enhanced by binding the MEK protein substrate through an allosteric mechanism. These studies provide in vitro evidence that BRAF selectively binds to active RAS and that the BRAF/CRAF heterodimer is the most active form, relative to their respective homodimers. Full‐length BRAF analysis with small‐molecule BRAF inhibitors shows that two drugs, dabrafenib and vemurafenib, can modestly enhance kinase activity of BRAF at low concentration. Taken together, this characterization of intact BRAF contributes to a framework for understanding its role in cell signaling.
Manganese N‐Heterocyclic Carbene Complexes for Catalytic Reduction of Ketones with Silanes
Authors: Pinto Mara , Friães Sofia , Franco Federico , Lloret‐Fillol Julio , Royo Beatriz
Published: July 2018

The front cover artwork for issue 13/2018 is provided by the group of Beatriz Royo in ITQB (Portugal). The image shows a Portuguese caravel representing the Special Issue dedicated to the Portuguese Conference on Catalysis. The manganese‐based catalyst for the reduction of ketones to alcohols is represented by a black swan. See the Full Paper itself at https://doi.org/10.1002/cctc.201800241.
Facilitated Utilization of Active Sites with Core‐Shell PdPt@Pt/RGO Nanocluster Structures for Improved Electrocatalytic Ethylene Glycol Oxidation
Authors: Ren Guohong , Liu Yajun , Wang Weigang , Wang Mingqian , Zhou Yang , Wu Shishan , Shen Jian
Published: July 2018

In direct alcohol fuel cells (DAFCs), ethylene glycol (EG) as an advanced power source has attracted intensive interests. However, the electrocatalysis performance and durability of Pt‐based nanocatalysts for EG oxidation are usually unsatisfactory, due to the low utilization of their active sites in the electrocatalytic reaction. Herein, the core‐shell PdPt@Pt nanoclusters (NCs) supported on functionalized reduced graphene oxide (RGO) are reported to facilitate the use of active sites for enhancing the electrocatalytic activity of EG oxidation. The special core‐shell NCs and synergistic effects of Pd and Pt provide numerous active sites which are beneficial to electrocatalysis. The prepared catalysts display remarkable electrocatalytic performance toward EG oxidation, and the peak current density (128.96 mA cm−2) and mass activity (4388.23 mA mg−1metal) are much larger compared to the commercial Pt/C catalysts (7.91 mA cm−2, 897.51 mA mg−1metal). This work could offer an effective strategy to facilitate the utilization of active sites for improving the electrocatalytic activity of Pt‐based nanocatalysts in the DAFCs.
Helicenes Grafted with 1,1,4,4‐Tetracyanobutadiene Moieties: π‐Helical Push–Pull Systems with Strong Electronic Circular Dichroism and Two‐Photon Absorption
Authors: Bouvier Romain , Durand Raphaël , Favereau Ludovic , Srebro‐Hooper Monika , Dorcet Vincent , Roisnel Thierry , Vanthuyne Nicolas , Vesga Yuly , Donnelly Julie , Hernandez Florencio , Autschbach Jochen , Trolez Yann , Crassous Jeanne
Published: July 2018

Enantiopure P‐ and M‐carbo[6]helicenes substituted with one or two tetracyanobutadiene moieties at positions 2 and 15 have been prepared. Grafting of these electron‐accepting groups onto the π‐helical core resulted in strong charge‐transfer effects, which greatly affected the UV/Vis, electronic circular dichroism (ECD), and two‐photon absorption (TPA) responses. The ECD signal was found to be reversibly switched by applying a redox stimulus.
Quo Vadis, MOF?
Authors: Caro Jürgen
Published: July 2018

Metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs) show world records in BET surface and specific pore volume. An impressive number of different MOF structures has been developed in the last 15 years. In numerous reviews, MOFs are predicted to substitute zeolites and other molecular sieves in big adsorption, permeation and heterogeneous catalysis applications. This short review critically highlights some prominent MOF properties like pore volume and BET surface. It is predicted, that commercialization of MOFs will takes place first in small niche applications, and – if successful – the big processes will follow.
Unveiling the Photophysical Properties of Boron Heptaaryldipyrromethene Derivatives
Authors: Liu Chunyu , Zhang Xue , Pan Xiumei , Yang Guochun
Published: July 2018

Increased interest has been devoted to the discovery of multifunctional materials with desirable properties, as continuous performance enhancement of various devices mainly depends on high‐performance materials. Now, density functional theory has become a powerful tool to design new materials and rationalize experimental observations. In this work, we explored the photophysical properties origin of chiral boron heptaaryldipyrromethene (heptaaryl‐BODIPY), which has charming optoelectronic properties. At the same time, we designed the other five compounds on the basis of heptaaryl‐BODIPY. The simulated electronic absorption and emission spectra of heptaaryl‐BODIPY are in agreement with experimental ones, allowing us to reliably assign its electronic transition property. The designed compound 6 shows remarkably large first hyperpolarizability value up to 82.78×10−30 esu. For this kind of compounds, their NLO response values associate with not only position but also electronic nature of substituent groups. Moreover, electron reorganization energies of compounds 1–4 are comparable to tris(8‐hydroxyquinolinato)aluminium(III) which is a typical electron transport material. Intriguingly, the studied compounds are the excellent fluorescent probe materials from the standpoint of large Stokes shift and high emission efficiency. Our work enables an opportunity for understanding the relationship between microelectronic structure and macroscopic performance of BODIPY derivatives.
Reestablishing a host–affiliate relationship: migratory fish reintroduction increases native mussel recruitment
Authors: Galbraith Heather S. , Devers Julie L. , Blakeslee Carrie J. , Cole Jeffrey C. , St. John White Barbara , Minkkinen Steve , Lellis William A.
Published: July 2018

Co‐extirpation among host–affiliate species is thought to be a leading cause of biodiversity loss worldwide. Freshwater mussels (Unionida) are at risk globally and face many threats to survival, including limited access to viable host fish required to complete their life history. We examine the relationship between the common eastern elliptio mussel (Elliptio complanata) and its migratory host fish the American eel (Anguilla rostrata), whose distribution in the Chesapeake Bay watershed is limited, in part, by dams. We examined population demographics of E. complanata across locations in the Chesapeake Bay watershed, primarily in the Susquehanna River in the absence of American eels, and conducted experimental restocking of eels to assess potential impacts on mussel recruitment. Compared to surveys completed ~20 yr prior, E. complanata could be experiencing declines at several historically abundant sites. These sites also had extremely limited evidence of recruitment. Restoration of host fish improved recruitment, but results were not equivalent between stocking sites, indicating that host reintroduction alone may not be fully effective in reestablishing mussel populations. One site where eels were introduced (Pine Creek, Tioga County, Pennsylvania, USA) experienced an increase from 0 juveniles found during quantitative surveys prior to eel stocking to 151 (21% of individuals collected during quantitative surveys) E. complanata juveniles found four years after stocking. A second site (Buffalo Creek, Union County, Pennsylvania) experienced a more moderate increase from 2 to 7 juveniles found during 2010 and 2014 quantitative surveys, respectively. Continued examination of other potential interacting factors affecting recruitment, including water quality or habitat conditions, is necessary to target favorable sites for successful restoration.
Structural Knowledge for Molecular Optimization: The Cases of Metal‐Mediated Protein–Protein Interactions and Structural Vaccinology
Authors: Cantini Francesca , Banci Lucia
Published: July 2018

The knowledge of the structural properties of molecules and of their recognition and interaction patterns with partners is a key feature for understanding their functional properties. This is particularly true for the comprehension of complex cellular processes in which several interacting proteins are involved. The structural characterization of all the molecules involved in a process allows the understanding of the malfunctioning of such process and eventually the design of biomolecules able to counterbalance it. The examples reported in this Microreview demonstrate that the characterization of the factors determining protein–protein recognition patterns is an essential step for understanding processes at the basis of metal homeostasis and for the molecular optimization of antigens as potent vaccine candidate, and in general for developing molecules able to affect or promote cellular pathways based on protein–protein interaction networks.