bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Influence of Farmers' Gender on Factors Affecting Maize Production among Small Scale Farmers in the Agricultural Reform Era: The Case of Western Region of Kenya
Authors: Ali-Olubandwa Adijah M.
Published: September 2019

The introduction of Structural Adjustment Programmes (SAPs) and trade liberalisation resulted in agricultural reforms in Kenya and other developing countries. Hence the Kenya government no longer gives incentives to small scale farmers. Therefore, the small scale farmers, extension service and the government at large have to look for all ways to increase maize production in the country, hence the study. Men and women both make significant contributions in maize-based farming systems and livelihoods, although gender roles in maize cultivation vary greatly across and within regions. Their contribution to agricultural work varies even more widely, depending on the specific crop and activity. The purpose of the study was to determine the influence of Farmers' Gender on Factors Affecting Maize production among Small Scale Farmers in the Agricultural Reform Era: The Case of Western Region of Kenya. This is because maize is the main staple for most of the Kenyan population and Western Region is the food basket.  The study used Ex-post facto research design via cross sectional survey. Busia, Bungoma, Mt. Elgon and Lugari Counties were purposively selected to represent the Western Region of Kenya. Two sub-counties from each of the four Counties were selected by simple random sampling. For uniformity purposes 200 small scale farmers were selected from focal areas through systematic random sampling hence ensuring that they all had been exposed to extension staff. Four key informants were sampled purposefully based on their positions of authority. In addition, 52 extension staffs were sampled through systematic random sampling. The small scale farmers were interviewed with the help of interview schedule containing open and closed ended questions. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. The results of the multiple regression illustrated that there was a statistically significant relationship between factors affecting maize production among small scale farmers (adoption of improved agricultural practices, attitude towards maize farming attitude towards farmer organizations and attitude towards opinion leaders) and farmers’ gender. The results showed that the adjusted R2=0.090, F=3.830 at p <0.01 and df=8. The study recommended that the Kenya government, extension service and researchers should pay more attention to the women small scale farmers, who form a large percentage of the small scale farmers in the western region, yet produce less bags of maize in order for Kenya to be food secure. There was therefore need for further research to find ways of motivating women small scale farmers to increase maize production in the Western Region of Kenya.
Biochemical characterization of Plasmodium falciparum parasite specific helicase 1 (PfPSH1)
Authors: Chauhan Manish , Sourabh Suman , Yasmin Rahena , Pahuja Isha , Tuteja Renu
Published: August 2019

Malaria, a disease caused by infection with parasites of the genus Plasmodium, causes millions of deaths worldwide annually. Of the five Plasmodium species that can infect humans, Plasmodium falciparum causes the most serious parasitic infection. The emergence of drug resistance and the ineffectiveness of old therapeutic regimes against malaria mean there is an urgent need to better understand the basic biology of the malaria parasite. Previously, we have reported the presence of parasite‐specific helicases identified through genome‐wide analysis of the P. falciparum (3D7) strain. Helicases are involved in various biological pathways in addition to nucleic acid metabolism, making them an important target of study. Here, we report the detailed biochemical characterization of P. falciparum parasite‐specific helicase 1 (PfPSH1) and the effect of phosphorylation on its biochemical activities. The C‐terminal of PfPSH1 (PfPSH1C) containing all conserved domains was used for biochemical characterization. PfPSH1C exhibits DNA‐ or ribonucleic acid (RNA)‐stimulated ATPase activity, and it can unwind DNA and RNA duplex substrates. It shows bipolar directionality because it can translocate in both (3′–5′ and 5′–3′) directions. PfPSH1 is mainly localized to the cytoplasm during early stages (including ring and trophozoite stages of intraerythrocytic development), but at late stages, it is partially located in the cytoplasm. The biochemical activities of PfPSH1 are upregulated after phosphorylation with PKC. The detailed biochemical characterization of PfPSH1 will help us understand its functional role in the parasite and pave the way for future studies.
Endosperm Development
Authors: Tonosaki Kaoru , Kinoshita Tetsu
Published: August 2019

Endosperm is a tissue in the seeds of many plants and supports embryonic and seedling growth by providing nutrients stored in its cells. As the stored products, starches, proteins and oils are valuable to humans for nutrition and as industrial materials, endosperm development has been well documented, particularly in cereal plants such as maize, barley and rice. Molecular genetics and genomics analyses have also been widely applied to the model plant
Arabidopsis thaliana
. Although the structures and amounts of endosperm within mature seeds vary considerably among plant species, most of the developmental events, such as genetic and epigenetic controls, are conserved.

Key Concepts

The programme of endosperm development varies among plant species.

In most angiosperm species, seeds have three genetically distinct tissues: maternal diploid seed coat, fertilised diploid embryo and triploid endosperm.

Endosperm consists of differentiated tissues that have distinct roles.

Roles of parental genomes in the endosperm (2 maternal and 1 paternal) are not equivalent owing to asymmetric epigenetic modifications, similar to those in the mammalian placenta.

Hybridisation barrier can be seen in the endosperm.
Sulfur Metabolism in Plants
Authors: Jobe Timothy O , Kopriva Stanislav
Published: August 2019

Sulfur is an essential element found in plants in a variety of compounds with many different functions. The sulfur‐containing amino acids cysteine and methionine are essential components of proteins. Sulfur is the active component of many coenzymes, such as iron–sulfur centres, lipoic acid or coenzyme A, and metabolites important for plant defence against biotic and abiotic stress, for example glutathione or glucosinolates. In addition, the sulfur‐containing natural compounds glucosinolates and alliins are important for human food and health. Sulfur is taken up as inorganic sulfate from the soil, reduced to sulfide and incorporated into amino acid cysteine, which serves as a donor of reduced sulfur for other metabolites. Sulfate uptake and assimilation are highly regulated by sulfur supply and demand. Research into plant sulfur nutrition has been boosted by the growing appearance of sulfur‐deficiency syndromes in crops, which lowers grain quality and increases disease susceptibility, caused by a reduction in atmospheric sulfur dioxide emissions.

Key Concepts

Sulfur is an essential nutrient for all organisms, and a large portion of sulfur in nature exists in bioorganic compounds.

Sulfur is a very mobile element moving between oceans, atmosphere and terrestrial ecosystems often undergoing transformations of its chemical state in the biosphere.

In the sulfate assimilation pathway, sulfate taken up by sulfate transporters, is reduced to sulfide and incorporated into bioorganic compounds, forming the amino acid cysteine.

The sulfate assimilation pathway is present in bacteria, fungi, plants and algae but not in metazoans or in most parasitic microorganisms.

Sulfate assimilation is a highly regulated process requiring coordination with carbon and nitrogen metabolism across a range of tissues and in multiple subcellular organelles.

Sulfate assimilation is regulated in a demand‐driven manner through a robust transcriptional network, but also includes post‐transcriptional and post‐translational regulation.

In Arabidopsis, Sulfur LIMitation 1 (SLIM1) is a transcriptional activator of many sulfate transporters and genes involved in the sulfur starvation response.

The sulfur‐containing tripeptide glutathione is important as redox buffer, acts as a storage and transport form of reduced sulfur and regulates the cell cycle and protein translation.

Sulfur‐containing natural compounds glucosinolates and alliins are responsible for the smell and taste of cruciferous and allium family vegetables and for the benefits of these vegetables for human health.
Improvement of Wear and Corrosion Resistance of Austenitic Stainless Steel by Combined Treatment Using Electron Beam Cladding and Subsequent Gas Nitrocarburizing
Authors: Hegelmann Eugen , Hengst Philipp , Hollmann Paul , Thronicke Jens , Buchwalder Anja , Schimpf Christian , Hunger Ralph , Zenker Rolf
Published: August 2019

The high passivation capacity of austenitic stainless steels results in excellent corrosion resistance in a wide variety of corrosion media. However, the tribological properties of these steels are insufficient due to their low hardness and high susceptibility to adhesive wear. To improve the wear behavior of austenitic steels while maintaining corrosion resistance, thermochemical processes such as nitriding or nitrocarburizing can be used. Such processes can be carried out as single procedures or in combination with coating techniques. Herein, the results of a new combination treatment consisting of the electron beam cladding (EBC) of a Co‐based alloy with subsequent gas nitrocarburizing (GNC) are presented. The effects of the beam deflection technique on the microstructure and phase formation of the cladded wear protection layer, the resulting hardness as well as the dilution ratio and the bonding of this layer to the base material are demonstrated. The subsequent gas nitrocaburizing leads to the formation of an ≈10 μm‐thick surface layer enriched with nitrogen and carbon. The significant improvement in wear resistance compared with the untreated base material is demonstrated by abrasive and adhesive‐abrasive wear tests. Corrosion resistance is investigated by recording current density—potential curves and long‐term tests in corrosive media.
Influence of the Manufacturing Technique on the Macro‐ and Microstructure of Reticulated Carbon‐Bonded Alumina Foams
Authors: Schramm Alina , Voigt Claudia , Hubálková Jana , Scharf Christiane , Aneziris Christos G.
Published: August 2019

Carbon‐bonded alumina foams, prepared by means of the replica technique, are typically used as metal melt filters for the filtration of steel due to their low wettability and their good resistance towards thermal shock and corrosion. According to literature, there are different process routes for the preparation of carbon‐bonded alumina foams, for example, dipping/rolling, spray‐ and dip/centrifugation coating. The influence of such process variations on macro‐ and microstructure and mechanical properties of carbon‐bonded ceramic foams has not been analyzed fully yet. Herein, carbon‐bonded alumina foams are manufactured by applying varying process routes regarding slurry preparation and coating steps. The macrostructure of the foams is analyzed by computer tomography, and for evaluating the microstructure, mercury intrusion porosimetry, optical microscopy, and scanning electron microscopy are applied. The determination of the cold‐crushing strength of the carbon‐bonded alumina foams allows the correlation of the structure and mechanical properties.
Direct Laser Annealing of Surface‐Enhanced Raman Scattering Substrates
Authors: Cao Bolun , Mu Yunyun , Zhang Xinping
Published: August 2019

A laser‐annealing technique for the fabrication of surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) substrates consisting of closely packed gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) with high densities and small separation distances is reported. Laser annealing enables strongly localized interaction between the laser spot and the colloidal AuNPs within the irradiation area. Multiple stages of the alternative spin‐coating of colloidal AuNPs and laser‐annealing processes enable filling of the gaps between the AuNPs by newly produced ones in the subsequent stages. Thus, both the fill factor and the distribution density of the AuNPs are increased largely with increasing the number of fabrication stages, which favors the improvement of the SERS performance. In contrast, the conventional furnace or hot‐plate annealing heats the substrate and the colloidal film simultaneously, and the melted AuNPs tend to aggregate to form larger ones with large separation distance. Thus, compared with the SERS effective by furnace‐annealed substrates, laser‐annealed substrates supply a further enhancement factor larger than 3.7. Thus, laser annealing is proved as a more effective approach for the fabrication of SERS substrates through annealing colloidal AuNPs.
Low‐Temperature Synthesis of Oxides in Ionic Liquids: Ozone‐Mediated Formation of Co3O4 Nanoparticles Monitored by In Situ Infrared Spectroscopy
Authors: Bauer Tanja , Agel Friederike , Blaumeiser Dominik , Maisel Sven , Görling Andreas , Wasserscheid Peter , Libuda Jörg
Published: August 2019

For most functional oxides, structure‐selective synthesis is the key for the task‐specific production of nanomaterials. Herein, the low‐temperature synthesis in ionic liquids (ILs) is an attractive strategy to produce nanomaterials which are not accessible otherwise is described. In this study, a bench‐scale synthesis route toward Co3O4 by applying O3 on the molecular precursor Co2(CO)8 in IL medium is reported. The Co3O4 nanoparticles (NPs) are characterized by infrared (IR) spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction (XRD), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). This protocol yields Co3O4 with good crystallinity and narrow size distribution. In addition to conventional materials characterization, a new experimental approach is described in which the material synthesis in situ by IR reflection absorption spectroscopy (IRAS) (in situ IRAS) is followed. The in situ approach provides additional information on the growth mechanisms and kinetics and confirms that O3 treatment of Co2(CO)8 in IL exclusively yields pure Co3O4 without the formation of byproducts or intermediates.
Conductive Copper Niobate: Superior Li+‐Storage Capability and Novel Li+‐Transport Mechanism
Authors: Yang Liting , Zhu Xiangzhen , Li Xiaohui , Zhao Xuebing , Pei Ke , You Wenbin , Li Xiao , Chen Yongjun , Lin Chunfu , Che Renchao
Published: September 2019

Niobates with shear ReO3 crystal structures are remarkably promising anode materials for Li+ batteries due to their large capacities, inherent safety, and high cycling stability. However, they generally suffer from limited rate capabilities rooted in their insufficient electronic and Li+ conductivities. Here, micrometer‐sized copper niobate (Cu2Nb34O87) bulk as a new anode material having a high electronic conductivity of 2.1 × 10−5 S cm−1 and an impressive average Li+ diffusion coefficient of ≈3.5 × 10−13 cm2 s−1 is exploited, which synergistically leads to an excellent rate capability (184 mAh g−1 at 10 C) while remaining a large reversible capacity and superior cycling stability. Moreover, the fast Li+ transport pathways of grain boundary (micrometer scale) → lattice deformation area (nanometer scale) → (010) crystallographic plane (angstrom scale) are demonstrated in Cu2Nb34O87. Therefore, these results could pave the way for practical application of Cu2Nb34O87 in high‐performance Li+ batteries.
Concurrent Optimization of Organic Donor–Acceptor Pairs through Machine Learning
Authors: Padula Daniele , Troisi Alessandro
Published: September 2019

In this work an instance of the general problem occurring when optimizing multicomponent materials is treated: can components be optimized separately or the optimization should occur simultaneously? This problem is investigated from a computational perspective in the domain of donor–acceptor pairs for organic photovoltaics, since most experimental research reports optimization of each component separately. A collection of organic donors and acceptors recently analyzed is used to train nonlinear machine learning models of different families to predict the power conversion efficiency of donor–acceptor pairs, considering computed electronic and structural parameters of both components. The trained models are then used to predict photovoltaic performance for donor–acceptor combinations for which experimental data are not available in the data set. Data structure, and the usefulness of the trained models are critically assessed by predicting some donor–acceptor pairs that recently appeared in the literature, and the best combinations are proposed as worth investigating experimentally.
Efficient capture of CO2from flue gas at high temperature by tunable polyamine‐based hybrid ionic liquids
Authors: Shi Guiling , Zhao Hongqin , Chen Kaihong , Lin Wenjun , Li Haoran , Wang Congmin
Published: August 2019

For an ideal absorbent for CO2capture from flue gas, there are some key features including easy preparation, high stability, low absorption enthalpy, high capacity at high temperature and excellent reversibility. Herein, several polyamine‐functionalized ionic liquids (ILs) were easily prepared from cheap polyamines and lithium salts, which exhibited significantly improved stability due to the presence of multisite coordinating interactions. The viscosity was reduced by introducing polyalcohol‐based ILs, leading to polyamine‐based hybrid ILs. Interestingly, these polyamine‐based hybrid ILs exhibited high CO2capacity (4.09 mmol/g, 0.1 bar) at high temperature (80°C) and excellent reversibility in the presence of H2O and O2, which is superior to many other good absorbents. Moreover, these ILs also showed good performance for CO2capture from stimulated air (2.10 mmol/g, 380 ppm). We believe that this method with easy preparation, low cost, high efficiency and excellent reversibility has a great potential in the industrial capture of CO2from flue gas.
The biology of human hair: A multidisciplinary review
Authors: Koch Sandra L. , Tridico Silvana R. , Bernard Bruno A. , Shriver Mark D. , Jablonski Nina G.
Published: September 2019

In the last century, human scalp hair morphology has been studied from multiple, and sometimes mutually exclusive, perspectives by anthropologists, biologists, geneticists, forensic scientists, and cosmetic scientists. Here, we review and synthesize historical and current research on hair to better understand the scientific basis and biological implications of hair microstructure and morphology. We revisit the origins of existing nomenclature regarding hair morphology and classifications, discuss the currently recognized limitations to hair analysis within the varied scientific disciplines studying hair, point out aspects of hair biology that remain unknown, and the great potential for integrating these diverse perspectives and expertise in future scientific investigations, while highlighting the benefits of combining nondestructive microscopical analysis with chemical and genomic analyses for explicating hair biology. Further, we propose consensus terminology for root growth stages through descriptions and images that will aid in the morphological and microscopical analysis of human scalp hair, thereby reducing confusion and the promulgation of inaccurate information that is presently in the literature.
Applications of Bifunctional Organocatalysts on ortho‐Quinone Methides
Authors: Mukhopadhyay Soumendranath , Gharui Chandan , Pan Subhas Chandra
Published: August 2019

ortho‐Quinone methides are important structures, having a cyclohexadiene core bearing an exocyclic alkylidiene and carbonyl functionality at the ortho‐position, and are widely used as essential intermediates in organic synthesis. These reactive intermediates are also used as important building blocks for the construction of a variety of heterocycles by hetero Diels‐Alder, electrocyclization reactions. Moreover, ortho‐quinone methides are a class of electrophiles, serving as Michael acceptors leading to conjugate additions with various nucleophiles. In general, ortho‐Quinone methides have transient existence and are highly reactive in nature. ortho‐Quinone methides have been generated in situ from stable precursors using either Brønsted acids or Brønsted bases. In the last few years, ortho‐quinone methides have been explored as imperative class of substrates in various bifunctional organocatalysts mediated asymmetric conjugate additions, cycloannulation, acyl‐transfer reaction, thiolation and hydrophosphination reactions. This review illustrates recent advancements of asymmetric transformations of ortho‐quinone methides with bifunctional H‐bonding organocatalysts.
Early‐onset twin–twin transfusion syndrome: Case series and systematic review
Authors: Mylrea‐Foley Bronacha , Shaw Caroline J. , Harikumar Nirupama , Legg Sophie , Meher Shireen , Lees Christoph C.
Published: August 2019

Introduction

Data on the outcomes of early‐onset twin–twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS), diagnosed before 18 weeks gestational age (GA), are sparse. We aimed to review the diagnosis, management and outcomes of early‐onset TTTS.

Material and methods

Pregnancy records at a single referral unit 2010‐6 were reviewed. In early‐onset TTTS cases, data for pregnancy characteristics, interventions and outcomes were collected. PubMed and Scopus databases were searched for studies including pregnant women with early‐onset TTTS. The primary outcome measure was livebirths.

Results

Case series: 58 cases of early‐onset TTTS 2010‐6, with full outcome data in 44. Diagnostic criteria were variable. Median GA at intervention was 17+4 (range 15+0‐28+1); 67% of patients had laser therapy (39/58). Overall survival: 60% (53/88). At least one livebirth: 86% (38/44), Two livebirths: 34% (15/44); No survivors: 14% (6/44). GA at delivery was 32+1.5 (range 16+2‐37+4). Systematic review: 16 studies included (n = 171 pregnancies). Diagnostic criteria varied widely: 79% of studies used Quintero staging. Most offered laser (89%) at median 17+0 weeks (range 16+0‐21+6). GA at delivery was 23+0‐39+5 weeks. Overall survival: 69% (129/186). At least one livebirth: 74% (127/171). Two livebirths: 59% (55/93). No survivors: 26% (44/171).

Conclusions

In comparison with the commonly accepted overall survival for TTTS treated after 18 weeks of 60–90%, outcomes in early‐onset TTTS were at the lower bound of this range. Gestational age at intervention is similar to that of later onset TTTS, indicating a lack of therapeutic options when a diagnosis is made before 18 weeks.
2D Titania–Carbon Superlattices Vertically Encapsulated in 3D Hollow Carbon Nanospheres Embedded with 0D TiO2 Quantum Dots for Exceptional Sodium‐Ion Storage
Authors: Xia Qingbing , Lin Zeheng , Lai Weihong , Wang Yongfei , Ma Cheng , Yan Zichao , Gu Qinfen , Wei Weifeng , Wang Jia‐Zhao , Zhang Zhiqiang , Liu Hua Kun , Dou Shi Xue , Chou Shu‐Lei
Published: August 2019

Two‐dimensional (2D) superlattices offer promising technological opportunities in tuning the intercalation chemistry of metal ions. Now, well‐ordered 2D superlattices of monolayer titania and carbon with tunable interlayer‐spacing are synthesized by a molecularly mediated thermally induced approach. The 2D superlattices are vertically encapsulated in hollow carbon nanospheres, which are embedded with TiO2 quantum dots, forming a 0D‐2D‐3D multi‐dimensional architecture. The multi‐dimensional architecture with the 2D superlattices encapsulated inside exhibits a near zero‐strain characteristic and enriched electrochemical reactivity, achieving a highly efficient Na+ storage performance with exceptional rate capability and superior long‐term cyclability.
Synthesis of Indomorphan Pseudo‐Natural Product Inhibitors of Glucose Transporters GLUT‐1 and ‐3
Authors: Ceballos Javier , Schwalfenberg Melanie , Karageorgis George , Reckzeh Elena S. , Sievers Sonja , Ostermann Claude , Pahl Axel , Sellstedt Magnus , Nowacki Jessica , Carnero Corrales Marjorie A. , Wilke Julian , Laraia Luca , Tschapalda Kirsten , Metz Malte , Sehr Dominik A. , Brand Silke , Winklhofer Konstanze , Janning Petra , Ziegler Slava , Waldmann Herbert
Published: August 2019

Bioactive compound design based on natural product (NP) structure may be limited because of partial coverage of NP‐like chemical space and biological target space. These limitations can be overcome by combining NP‐centered strategies with fragment‐based compound design through combination of NP‐derived fragments to afford structurally unprecedented “pseudo‐natural products” (pseudo‐NPs). The design, synthesis, and biological evaluation of a collection of indomorphan pseudo‐NPs that combine biosynthetically unrelated indole‐ and morphan‐alkaloid fragments are described. Indomorphane derivative Glupin was identified as a potent inhibitor of glucose uptake by selectively targeting and upregulating glucose transporters GLUT‐1 and GLUT‐3. Glupin suppresses glycolysis, reduces the levels of glucose‐derived metabolites, and attenuates the growth of various cancer cell lines. Our findings underscore the importance of dual GLUT‐1 and GLUT‐3 inhibition to efficiently suppress tumor cell growth and the cellular rescue mechanism, which counteracts glucose scarcity.
A Nontrigonal Tricoordinate Phosphorus Ligand Exhibiting Reversible “Nonspectator” L/X‐Switching
Authors: Cleveland Gregory T. , Radosevich Alexander T.
Published: August 2019

We report here a “nonspectator” behavior for an unsupportedL‐function σ3‐P ligand (i.e. P{N[o‐NMe‐C6H4]2},1a) in complex with the cyclopentadienyliron dicarbonyl cation (Fp+). Treatment of1a⋅Fp+with [(Me2N)3S][Me3SiF2] results in fluoride addition to theP‐center, giving the isolable crystalline fluorometallophosphorane1aF⋅Fp that allows a crystallographic assessment of the variance in the Fe−P bond as a function of P‐coordination number. The nonspectator reactivity of1a⋅Fp+is rationalized on the basis of electronic structure arguments and by comparison to trigonal analogue (Me2N)3P⋅Fp+(i.e.1b⋅Fp+), which is inert to fluoride addition. These observations establish a nonspectator L/X‐switching in (σ3‐P)–M complexes by reversible access to higher‐coordinate phosphorus ligand fragments.
Enantioselective Rhodium‐Catalyzed Addition of Arylboroxines to N‐Unprotected Ketimines: Efficient Synthesis of Cipargamin
Authors: Zhu Jinbin , Huang Linwei , Dong Wei , Li Naikai , Yu Xingxin , Deng Wei‐Ping , Tang Wenjun
Published: August 2019

Highly enantioselective rhodium‐catalyzed addition of arylboroxines to N‐unprotected ketimines is realized for the first time by employing chiral BIBOP‐type ligands with a Rh loading as low as 1 mol %. A range of chiral α‐trifluoromethyl‐α,α‐diaryl α‐tertiary amines or 3‐amino‐3‐aryloxindoles were formed with excellent ee values and yields by employing either WingPhos or PFBO‐BIBOP as the ligand. The method has enabled an efficient enantioselective synthesis of cipargamin.
An Ultrastable Metal Azolate Framework with Binding Pockets for Optimal Carbon Dioxide Capture
Authors: Wang Zhi‐Shuo , Li Mian , Peng Yun‐Lei , Zhang Zhenjie , Chen Wei , Huang Xiao‐Chun
Published: August 2019

In the evolution of metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) for carbon capture, a lasting challenge is to strike a balance between high uptake capacity/selectivity and low energy cost for regeneration. Meanwhile, these man‐made materials have to survive from practical demands such as stability under harsh conditions and feasibility of scale‐up synthesis. Reported here is a new MOF, Zn(imPim) (aka. MAF‐stu‐1), with an imidazole derivative ligand, featuring binding pockets that can accommodate CO2 molecules in a fit‐like‐a‐glove manner. Such a high degree of shape complementarity allows direct observation of the loaded CO2 in the pockets, and warrants its optimal carbon capture performances exceeding the best‐performing MOFs nowadays. Coupled with the record thermal (up to 680 °C) and chemical stability, as well as rapid large‐scale production, both encoded in the material design, Zn(imPim) represents a most competitive candidate to tackle the immediate problems of carbon dioxide capture.
Towards deep‐blue phosphorescence: molecular design and property prediction of iridium complexes with pyridinylphosphinate ancillary ligand
Authors: Song Chongping , Li Jiaqi , Wang Zhixiang , Chen Yanan , Zhao Fei , Li Ping , Zhang Houyu
Published: August 2019

A series of iridium complexes (1–5), which consist of two 2‐(2,4‐difluorophenyl)pyridine (dfppy)‐based primary ligands and one pyridinylphosphinate ancillary ligand, have been investigated theoretically for screening highly efficient deep‐blue light‐emitting materials. Compared with the reported dfppy‐based emitter 1, the designed iridium complexes 3–5 with the introduction of a stronger electron‐withdrawing (–CN, –CF3, or o‐carborane) group and a bulky electron‐donating (tert‐butyl) group in dfppy ligands can be achieved to display the emission peaks at 443, 442, and 447 nm, respectively. The electronic structures, absorption and emission properties, radiative and nonradiative processes of their excited states, and charge injection and transport properties of the iridium complexes are analyzed in detail. The calculated results show that designed iridium complexes have comparable radiative and nonradiative rate constants with 1, and are expected to have similar quantum efficiency with 1. Meanwhile, these designed complexes keep the advantages of the charge transport properties of 1, indicating that they are potential iridium complexes for efficient deep‐blue phosphorescence. This work provides more in‐depth understanding the structure–property relationship of dfppy‐based iridium complexes, and shed lights on molecular design for deep‐blue phosphorescent metal complexes.
Bifunctional coordination polymers as efficient catalysts for carbon dioxide conversion
Authors: Arunachalam Rajendran , Chinnaraja Eswaran , Valkonen Arto , Rissanen Kari , Subramanian Palani S.
Published: August 2019

The multidentate ligand H2L upon complexation with Zn (II) and Cd (II) provide a one‐dimensional polymeric networks. These coordination polymers (CPs) CP‐1 and CP‐2 containing Zn (II) and Cd (II) metals respectively are well characterized. The single crystal structural analysis confirms the formation of one‐dimensional coordination polymer with zigzag fashion in CP‐1 and ladder chain CP‐2. Both the CPs are applied as catalysts to synthesize various cyclic carbonates from epoxides and carbon dioxide. The catalysts are giving better conversion under solvent‐free and additive‐free condition using 10 bar CO2 and 100 °C as optimized pressure and temperature. The detailed kinetic experiments suggesting the first order kinetics, the energy of activation (Ea) is calculated for this catalytic conversion.
Effects of Dehulling Sacha Inchi (Plukenetia volubilis L.) Seeds on the Physicochemical and Sensory Properties of Oils Extracted by Means of Cold Pressing
Authors: Gutiérrez Luis‐Felipe , Sanchez‐Reinoso Zain , Quiñones‐Segura Yolanda
Published: August 2019

Sacha Inchi (Plukenetia volubilis L.) is a plant native to the Peruvian Amazon, with great expansion because of the high industrialization potential of its seeds (SIS). The Sacha Inchi oil (SIO) is commonly obtained by pressing the SIS, and it is of high commercial value because of its excellent nutritional properties. In this study, we investigated the effects of the dehulling of SIS on the physicochemical and sensory properties of the SIO extracted by means of cold pressing. The fatty acid composition, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra, density, refractive index (RI), acid value (AV), peroxide value (PV), p‐anisidine index (p‐An), oxidative stability index (OSI), color, and sensory profiles of the SIO samples were evaluated. The oils obtained from whole SIS showed similar fatty acid profiles, physicochemical properties, and sensory profiles to those extracted from dehulled SIS. After 60 days of storage, the total oxidation values of both SIO samples significantly increased, but there were no significant differences between oils from whole and dehulled SIS. Thus, the dehulling process could be avoided without affecting significantly the quality of the obtained oils.
Facile Synthesis of Small Gold Nanoparticles Stabilized by Carbon Nanospheres for Selective Hydrogenation of 4‐Nitrobenzaldehyde
Authors: Liu Minghui , Wang Jiasheng , Liu Yingcen , Lu Rongwen , Zhang Shufen
Published: August 2019

We report the facile synthesis of small gold nanoparticles stabilized by carbon nanospheres (Au@C) for highly active and selective hydrogenation of 4‐nitrobenzaldehyde. The formation of such a Au@C unique structure can be attributed to the high distribution of Au(III) species in the melamine‐formaldehyde resin nanospheres, which were formed via the coordination of Au(III) with the abundant imino groups of melamine‐formaldehyde pre‐polymer. After the subsequent condensation and confined in situ reduction, small gold nanoparticles, and carbon nanospheres were formed simultaneously. Under the reaction conditions of 80 °C and 1.6 MPa, 99.3% conversion and >99% selectivity were achieved for the hydrogenation of 4‐nitrobenzaldehyde to 4‐aminobenzaldehyde.
The effect of greenwashing on online consumer engagement: A comparative study in France, Germany, Turkey, and the United Kingdom
Authors: Topal İbrahim , Nart Sima , Akar Cüneyt , Erkollar Alptekin
Published: August 2019

The effect of the Volkswagen emission crisis in 2015, the biggest greenwashing event in recent years, on the online consumer engagement of Facebook brand pages was investigated in France, Germany, Turkey, and the United Kingdom. These countries have been selected for the reason that Volkswagen sales and diesel‐engine cars and the use of social media are quite common. For 6 years in these four countries, the likes, comments, and shares made by consumers on the Facebook brand page of Volkswagen have been examined. The monthly dataset covers January 2012 to December 2017. The obtained data were analyzed with autoregressive–moving average models. Despite a globally positive approach to green products, countries' attitudes toward greenwashing have been significantly different. The findings showed that online consumer engagement was negative in the United Kingdom and Turkey and in a positive direction in Germany, whereas there was no change in France in the fourth quarter of 2015.
Production and characterization of β‐glucosidase from Aspergillus niger fermentation: Application for organic fraction of municipal solid waste hydrolysis and methane enhancement
Authors: Mlaik Najoua , Sayadi Sami , Hamza Manel , Khoufi Sonia
Published: August 2019

The anaerobic digestion of the organic fraction of municipal solid waste (OFMSW) is currently an attractive treatment process with energy production in the form of biogas. Hydrolysis is the rate‐limiting step for the anaerobic digestion of solid wastes. Thus, in the present study fungal enzymatic pretreatment of OFMSW was applied to enhance biogas production. Two enzyme cocktails rich on β‐glucosidase were produced from submerged fermentation of Aspergillus niger on basal medium using OFMSW as carbon source and urea (Urea cocktail) and Ulva rigida as nitrogen source (Ulva cocktail). Ulva cocktail displayed an important effect on OFMSW solubilization. Therefore, an increase of reducing sugar concentration about 60% was obtained which was in correlation with chemical oxygen demand (COD) increase. The performance of enzymatic pretreatment on anaerobic digestion of OFMSW was studied by conducting biochemical methane potential tests. Results showed that the enzymatic pretreatment improved methane yield of OFMSW even at high solid concentration. High methane yield about 500 ml/g total volatile solid was obtained, which corresponds up to 68% enhancement over the control.
Orthodontic Management of a Migrated Maxillary Central Incisor With a Secondary Occlusal Trauma
Authors: Thierens Laurent A.M. , Van de Velde Tommie , De Pauw Guy A.M.
Published: August 2019

Introduction

Normal or excessive occlusal forces exerted on teeth with a reduced periodontal support might result in a secondary occlusal trauma. This type of injury is diagnosed based on histological changes in the periodontium. Multiple clinical and radiographic indicators are, therefore, required as surrogates to assist the presumptive diagnosis of a (secondary) occlusal trauma.

Case Presentation

In this case report, the diagnosis, management, and the 1‐year follow‐up of a secondary occlusal trauma of a maxillary central incisor are described. The occlusal relationship was rehabilitated with fixed orthodontic appliances and was further stabilized with both fixed and removable retainers.

Conclusions

A combined periodontal‐orthodontic approach for a secondary occlusal trauma allows the rehabilitation of periodontal, occlusal, and esthetic parameters. Twelve months after the end of the active orthodontic treatment, a combination of fixed and removable retainers showed to be effective in retaining the treatment outcome.
Distinct molecular mechanisms control levels of synaptic F‐actin
Authors: Glebov Oleg O.
Published: September 2019

Polymerization of filamentous (F)‐actin at the neuronal synapse plays an important role in neuronal function. However, the regulatory mechanisms controlling the levels of synaptic actin remain incompletely understood. Here, I used established pharmacological blockers to acutely disrupt the function of actin polymerization machinery, then quantified their effect on synaptic F‐actin levels. Synaptic F‐actin was modestly decreased by inhibition of Arp2/3‐dependent actin branching. Blockade of formin‐dependent actin elongation resulted in an Arp2/3‐dependent increase in synaptic actin that could be mimicked by limited actin depolymerization. Limited actin depolymerization was also sufficient to reverse a decrease in synaptic F‐actin caused by prolonged blockade of synaptic NMDA‐type glutamate receptors. These results suggest that interplay between different actin polymerization pathways may regulate synaptic actin dynamics.
Mental health in the criminal justice system: A pathways approach to service and research design
Authors: Forrester Andrew , Hopkin Gareth
Published: September 2019

Background

Care pathwayapproaches were introduced into health care in the 1980s and have become standard international practice. They are now being introduced more specifically for health care in the criminal justice system. Care pathway delivery has the theoretical advantage of encouraging a whole‐systems approach for health and social care within the criminal justice system, but how well is it supported by empirical evidence?

Aims

The aim of this study is to review the nature and extent of evidence streams supporting health care delivery within interagency pathway developments since 2000.

Method

We used an exploratory narrative method to review the nature and extent of evidence streams supporting health care delivery within interagency pathway developments since 2000. The available literature was reviewed using a keyword search approach with three databases: PubMed, Medline, and Google Scholar.

Findings

Research in this field has covered police custody, courts, prisons, and the wider community, but there is little that follows the entire career through all these elements of offender placement. Main themes in the research to date, regardless of where the research was conducted, have been counting the disorder or the need, development and evaluation of screening tools, and evaluation of clinical intervention styles. Most evidence to date is simply observational, although the possibility of conducting randomised controlled trials of interventions within parts of the criminal justice system, especially prisons, is now well established.

Conclusions

Access to health care while passing through the criminal justice system is essential because of the disproportionately high rates of mental disorder among offenders, and the concept of structured pathways to ensure this theoretically satisfying, but as yet empirically unsupported. Further, substantial cuts in services, generally following government economies, are largely unresearched. Considerable investment in new possibilities, driven by both pressure groups and government, tend to be informed by good will and theory rather than hard evidence and are often not evaluated even after introduction. This must change.
Effect of pH and defatting on the functional attributes of safflower, sunflower, canola, and hemp protein concentrates
Authors: Galves Cassia , Stone Andrea K. , Szarko James , Liu Shuanghui , Shafer Kent , Hargreaves Jason , Siarkowski Michael , Nickerson Michael T.
Published: August 2019

Background and objectives

The effect of defatting four oilseed protein concentrates (safflower, sunflower, canola, and hemp) on the surface and functional properties of the proteins was investigated as a function of pH (pH 3, 5, 7). The functionality of commercial protein concentrates (soy, faba bean, lentil, pea, northern great bean, whey) already in the marketplace was also tested for comparative purposes.

Findings

Defatting with hexane increased the protein content from 77.3% to 92.9% for safflower, 67.5 to 75.5% for sunflower, 58.0–66.0% for canola, and 71.0–83.2% for hemp. The approximate isoelectric point (pI) of safflower increased with defatting (5.4–5.8), whereas for canola the pI decreased with defatting (4.7–4.3), and sunflower and hemp protein concentrates had similar pI for defatted or full fat. Certain functional properties were improved with defatting, whereas others showed the opposite trend; this was highly dependent on protein type and pH.

Conclusions

The oilseed concentrates were comparable to the concentrates in the marketplace with canola and sunflower proteins having the greatest oil‐holding capacity and defatted safflower having the highest foaming capacity of all the proteins tested.

Significance and novelty

Based on their functionality, the oilseed protein concentrates have potential to be used by the food ingredient industry.
Life Balance and Work Addiction Among NCAA Administrators and Coaches
Authors: Hancock Meg G. , Balkin Richard S. , Reiner Summer M. , Williams Sarah , Hunter Quentin , Powell Brent , Juhnke Gerald A.
Published: September 2019

Intercollegiate athletics represent an industry prone to challenges of work addiction and life balance. Work addiction and life balance domains in male and female intercollegiate athletic coaches and administrators (N = 245) were examined using multiple regression analysis. Higher levels of stress/anxiety, sleep disturbance, and career satisfaction and lower levels of quality of relationships and friendships were the strongest predictors of work addiction. Counseling focused on reducing the negative aspects of work addiction, while maintaining job performance, may benefit this population.
Cobalt‐Embedded N‐Doped Carbon Arrays Derived In Situ as Trifunctional Catalyst Toward Hydrogen and Oxygen Evolution, and Oxygen Reduction
Authors: Huang Niu , Yang Liu , Zhang Mingyi , Yan Shufang , Ding Yuyue , Sun Panpan , Sun Xiaohua
Published: August 2019

The carbons containing metals coordinated with nitrogen are emerging as the most promising catalysts toward various heterogeneous catalyses. In this paper, such a carbon catalyst is prepared through a chemical vapor deposition (CVD)‐supported precursor pyrolysis. Compared with the direct pyrolysis of polypyrrole@cobalt salt precursor, the incorporation of dicyanodiamide as the CVD source facilitates the diversification and hierarchization of carbon morphology, the reduction of Co particle size, and the increase of the proportion of interfacial Co−N−C and pyridinic‐N. The catalyst is composed of in‐situ‐grown multiple‐morphology carbons (MMCs) with metallic Co particles embedded, where the MMCs are a combination of nano‐particles, ‐rods, and ‐wires, all comprised by small N‐doped carbon nanoflakes. Owing to the combined modulation on morphology configurations and defect states, the Co/MMCs catalyst demonstrates excellent activities toward hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), oxygen evolution reaction (OER), and oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). A half‐wave potential of 0.84 V and low overpotentials of 86 and 180 mV at 10 mA cm−2 current density for HER and OER are achieved, respectively. Additionally, the catalyst also demonstrates favorable prospects for large‐scale applications in overall water splitting and Zn‐air battery.
Extending Surface‐Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy to Liquids Using Shell‐Isolated Plasmonic Superstructures
Authors: Wondergem Caterina S. , van Swieten Thomas P. , Geitenbeek Robin G. , Erné Ben H. , Weckhuysen Bert M.
Published: September 2019

Plasmonic superstructures (PS) based on Au/SiO2 were prepared for Shell‐Isolated Nanoparticle‐Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (SHINERS) in liquid phase applications. These superstructures are composed of functionalized SiO2 spheres with plasmonic Au nanoparticles (NPs) on their surface. Functionalization was performed with (3‐aminopropyl)trimethoxysilane, (3‐mercaptopropyl)trimethoxysilane and poly(ethylene‐imine) (PEI). Of these three, PEI‐functionalized spheres showed the highest adsorption density of Au NPs in TEM, UV/Vis and dynamic light scattering (DLS) experiments. Upon decreasing the Au NP/SiO2 sphere size ratio, an increase in adsorption density was also observed. To optimize plasmonic activity, 61 nm Au NPs were adsorbed onto 900 nm SiO2‐PEI spheres and these PS were coated with an ultrathin layer (1–2 nm) of SiO2 to obtain Shell‐Isolated Plasmonic Superstructures (SHIPS), preventing direct contact between Au NPs and the liquid medium. Zeta potential measurements, TEM and SHINERS showed that SiO2 coating was successful. The detection limit for SHINERS using SHIPS and a 638 nm laser was around 10−12 m of Rhodamine (10−15 m for uncoated PS), all with acquisition settings suitable for catalysis applications.
Tailoring Heterometallic Cluster Functional Building Blocks: Synthesis, Separation, Structural and DFT Studies of [Re6−xMoxSe8(CN)6]n−
Authors: Muravieva Viktoria K. , Gayfulin Yakov M. , Prestipino Carmelo , Lemoine Pierric , Ryzhikov Maxim R. , Yanshole Vadim V. , Cordier Stéphane , Naumov Nikolay G.
Published: August 2019

Influence of the metal core composition and geometry on the structure, spectroscopic properties and redox potentials was investigated for the first time for heterometallic (Re/Mo)6 octahedral clusters. The discrete anionic clusters [Re6‐xMoxSe8(CN)6]n− (x=2, 3; n=4, 5) were obtained as individual salts. Their isomeric composition and bond‐length distribution were inspected using a combination of single‐crystal X‐ray structure analysis, NMR, EXAFS, and DFT calculations.
Tailored Transition‐Metal Coordination Environments in Imidazole‐Modified DNA G‐Quadruplexes
Authors: Punt Philip M. , Clever Guido H.
Published: August 2019

Two types of imidazole ligands were introduced both at the end of tetramolecular and into the loop region of unimolecular DNA G‐quadruplexes. The modified oligonucleotides were shown to complex a range of different transition‐metal cations including NiII, CuII, ZnII and CoII, as indicated by UV/Vis absorption spectroscopy and ion mobility mass spectrometry. Molecular dynamics simulations were performed to obtain structural insight into the investigated systems. Variation of ligand number and position in the loop region of unimolecular sequences derived from the human telomer region (htel) allows for a controlled design of distinct coordination environments with fine‐tuned metal affinities. It is shown that CuII, which is typically square‐planar coordinated, has a higher affinity for systems offering four ligands, whereas NiII prefers G‐quadruplexes with six ligands. Likewise, the positioning of ligands in a square‐planar versus tetrahedral fashion affects binding affinities of CuII and ZnII cations, respectively. Gaining control over ligand arrangement patterns will spur the rational development of transition‐metal‐modified DNAzymes. Furthermore, this method is suited to combine different types of ligands, for example, those typically found in metalloenzymes, inside a single DNA architecture.