bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Peach extract induces systemic and local immune responses in an experimental food allergy model
Authors: Steigerwald H. , Krause M. , Gonzalez-Menendez I. , Quintanilla-Martinez L. , Vieths S. , Scheurer S. , Albrecht M. , Blanco-Pérez F.
Published: February 2023

Peach allergy is among the most frequent food allergies in the Mediterranean area, often eliciting severe anaphylactic reactions in patients. Due to the risk of severe symptoms, studies in humans are limited, leading to a lack of therapeutic options. This study aimed to develop a peach allergy mouse model as a tool to better understand the pathomechanism and to allow preclinical investigations on the development of optimized strategies for immunotherapy. CBA/J mice were sensitized intraperitoneally with peach extract or PBS, using alum as adjuvant. Afterwards, extract was administered intragastrically to involve the intestinal tract. Allergen provocation was performed via intraperitoneal injection of extract, measuring drop of body temperature as main read out of anaphylaxis. The model induced allergy-related symptoms in mice, including decrease of body temperature. Antibody levels in serum and intestinal homogenates revealed a Th2 response with increased levels of mMCPT-1, peach- and Pru p 3-specific IgE, IgG1 and IgG2a as well as increased levels of IL-4 and IL-13. FACS analysis of small intestine lamina propria revealed increased amounts of T cells, neutrophils and DCs in peach allergic mice. These data suggest the successful establishment of a peach allergy mouse model, inducing systemic as well as local gastrointestinal reactions.
MAPkinases regulate secondary metabolism, sexual development and light dependent cellulase regulation in Trichoderma reesei
Authors: Schalamun Miriam , Beier Sabrina , Hinterdobler Wolfgang , Wanko Nicole , Schinnerl Johann , Brecker Lothar , Engl Dorothea Elisa , Schmoll Monika
Published: February 2023

The filamentous fungus Trichoderma reesei is a prolific producer of plant cell wall degrading enzymes, which are regulated in response to diverse environmental signals for optimal adaptation, but also produces a wide array of secondary metabolites. Available carbon source and light are the strongest cues currently known to impact secreted enzyme levels and an interplay with regulation of secondary metabolism became increasingly obvious in recent years. While cellulase regulation is already known to be modulated by different mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways, the relevance of the light signal, which is transmitted by this pathway in other fungi as well, is still unknown in T. reesei as are interconnections to secondary metabolism and chemical communication under mating conditions. Here we show that MAPkinases differentially influence cellulase regulation in light and darkness and that the Hog1 homologue TMK3, but not TMK1 or TMK2 are required for the chemotropic response to glucose in T. reesei. Additionally, MAPkinases regulate production of specific secondary metabolites including trichodimerol and bisorbibutenolid, a bioactive compound with cytostatic effect on cancer cells and deterrent effect on larvae, under conditions facilitating mating, which reflects a defect in chemical communication. Strains lacking either of the MAPkinases become female sterile, indicating the conservation of the role of MAPkinases in sexual fertility also in T. reesei. In summary, our findings substantiate the previously detected interconnection of cellulase regulation with regulation of secondary metabolism as well as the involvement of MAPkinases in light dependent gene regulation of cellulase and secondary metabolite genes in fungi.
Circulating microRNA expression signatures accurately discriminate myalgic encephalomyelitis from fibromyalgia and comorbid conditions
Authors: Nepotchatykh Evguenia , Caraus Iurie , Elremaly Wesam , Leveau Corinne , Elbakry Mohamed , Godbout Christian , Rostami-Afshari Bita , Petre Diana , Khatami Nasrin , Franco Anita , Moreau Alain
Published: February 2023

Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS), and fibromyalgia (FM) are two chronic complex diseases with overlapping symptoms affecting multiple systems and organs over time. Due to the absence of validated biomarkers and similarity in symptoms, both disorders are misdiagnosed, and the comorbidity of the two is often unrecognized. Our study aimed to investigate the expression profiles of 11 circulating miRNAs previously associated with ME/CFS pathogenesis in FM patients and individuals with a comorbid diagnosis of FM associated with ME/CFS (ME/CFS + FM), and matched sedentary healthy controls. Whether these 11 circulating miRNAs expression can differentiate between the two disorders was also examined. Our results highlight differential circulating miRNAs expression signatures between ME/CFS, FM and ME/CFS + FM, which also correlate to symptom severity between ME/CFS and ME/CFS + FM groups. We provided a prediction model, by using a machine-learning approach based on 11 circulating miRNAs levels, which can be used to discriminate between patients suffering from ME/CFS, FM and ME/CFS + FM. These 11 miRNAs are proposed as potential biomarkers for discriminating ME/CFS from FM. The results of this study demonstrate that ME/CFS and FM are two distinct illnesses, and we highlight the comorbidity between the two conditions. Proper diagnosis of patients suffering from ME/CFS, FM or ME/CFS + FM is crucial to elucidate the pathophysiology of both diseases, determine preventive measures, and establish more effective treatments.
Novel green flexible rice straw nanofibers/zinc oxide nanoparticles films with electrical properties
Authors: El-Wahab Rasha M. Abd , Fadel Shaimaa M. , Abdel-karim Amal M. , Eloui Sherif M. , Hassan Mohammad L.
Published: February 2023

In the current work, rice straw nanofibers (RSNF) with the width of elementary fibrils (~ 4–5 nm) were isolated from rice straw. The isolated nanofibers were used with zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) to prepare flexible nanopaper films. Tensile strength and electrical properties of the prepared RSNF/ZnONPs nanopaper were investigated. The addition of ZnONPs to RSNF nanopaper did not deteriorate its mechanical properties and showed a slight improvement in tensile strength and Young's modulus of about 14% and 10%, respectively, upon the addition of 5% of ZnONPs. Microscopy investigation using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) showed the inclusion of the ZnONPs within the RSNF. Electrical conductivity and dielectric properties as a function of frequency at different temperatures were studied. The ac‐electrical conductivity increased with frequency and fitted with the power law equation. The dc‐ electrical conductivity of the samples verified the Arrhenius equation and the activation energies varied in the range from 0.9 to 0.42 eV. The dielectric constant decreased with increasing frequency and increased with increasing temperature, probably due to the free movement of dipole molecular chains within the RSNF nanopaper. The high values of the dielectric constant and conductivity of the prepared nanopaper films support their use in electronic components.
Subduction thermal regime, petrological metamorphism and seismicity under the Mariana arc
Authors: Qu Rui , Zhu Weiling , Ji Yingfeng , Xie Chaodi , Zeng Deng , Zhang Fan
Published: February 2023

Because of the steep subduction of a highly concave slab, researchers have characterized megathrusts under the Marianas as among the coldest and curviest plate coupling interfaces in various circum-Pacific subduction zones. Seismic tomography indicates that the heterogeneous underlying plate varies markedly in its subduction angle, velocity, and flexure along the strike and dip, while their effects on the thermal structure and intraslab earthquake occurrence remain enigmatic. By incorporating the 3-D MORVEL velocity and state-of-the-art slab geometry into thermomechanical modeling, we estimated the 3-D subduction thermal state and hydrothermal regime below the Marianas. We find that (1) the concave slab geometry and the complexity of the intraslab velocity variation in the Marianas are associated with a heterogeneous along-strike thermal regime and a cold mantle wedge beneath the central Marianas; (2) amphibolitization and eclogitization of subducted oceanic crust cause variations in fluid pressure and fluid release from the subduction interface, which may influence the distribution of interface seismicity in the Mariana system; (3) the concentration of active hydrothermal vents in the trench > 8 km deep is accompanied by a large temperature gradient and subsequent remarkable slab dehydration in the southern Marianas; and (4) slab dehydration (> 0.02 wt%/km) from 30 to 80 km indicates notable fluid release and potential fluid migration in subduction channels, which may correspond to the large water flux at depth beneath the Marianas.
Trapping and manipulating skyrmions in two-dimensional films by surface acoustic waves
Authors: Miyazaki Yu , Yokouchi Tomoyuki , Shiomi Yuki
Published: February 2023

Skyrmions, topologically stable spin structures with particle-like properties, are promising for spintronics applications such as skyrmion racetrack memory. Though reliable control of skyrmion motion is essential for the operation of spintronics devices, the straight motion of skyrmions along the driving force is in general difficult due to an inevitable transverse force originating from their topology. Here, we propose a method of precise manipulation of skyrmions based on surface acoustic waves (SAWs) propagating in two dimensions. Using two standing SAWs, saddle-shape local potentials like quadrupole ion traps are created to trap skyrmions robustly. Furthermore, by tuning the frequencies of the SAWs, we show that trapped skyrmions not only move in straight lines but also move precisely in any direction in a two-dimensional thin film. These results could be helpful for the future design of spintronics devices based on skyrmions.
Robust, practical and comprehensive analysis of soft compression image coding algorithms for big data
Authors: Xin Gangtao , Fan Pingyi
Published: February 2023

With the advancement of intelligent vision algorithms and devices, image reprocessing and secondary propagation are becoming increasingly prevalent. A large number of similar images are being produced rapidly and widely, resulting in the homogeneity and similarity of images. Moreover, it brings new challenges to compression systems, which need to exploit the potential of deep features and side information of images. However, traditional methods are incompetent for this issue. Soft compression is a novel data-driven image coding algorithm with superior performance. Compared with existing paradigms, it has distinctive characteristics: from hard to soft, from pixels to shapes, and from fixed to random. Soft compression may hold promise for human-centric/data-centric intelligent systems, making them efficient and reliable and finding potential in the metaverse and digital twins, etc. In this paper, we present a comprehensive and practical analysis of soft compression, revealing the functional role of each component in the system.
Efficacy and aesthetic outcomes for quilting sutures in the prevention of seroma after mastectomy
Authors: Foulon Arthur , Mancaux Albine , Theret Pierrick , Naepels Philippe , Mychaluk Johanna , Merviel Philippe , Abboud Pascal , Fauvet Raffaele
Published: February 2023

Worldwide, mastectomy for breast cancer is one of the most frequently performed surgical procedures. As one of the main complications of mastectomy, seroma is associated with pain, infections and a prolonged hospital stay. We performed a prospective multicenter randomized trial to assess the efficacy and esthetic outcomes associated with quilting the skin flap. Eighty-seven patients were included. The proportion of patients with seroma on postoperative day 15 was significantly lower in the quilting group (12 out of 39 (30.8%)) than in a control group with conventional wound closure (21 out of 40 (52.5%); P = 0.05). The mean breast seroma volume was significantly lower in the quilting group (130.2 mL) than in the control group (236.8 mL; P = 0.02). There were no differences in the esthetic outcomes. The pain level on day 1 was similar in the quilting and control groups (mean visual analog scale score: 2.5 vs. 2.1, respectively; P = 0.3). Quilting the skin flap was associated with a lower prevalence of seroma and a lower seroma volume, and did not worsen the esthetic outcomes or pain levels. This technique is technically straightforward and should be offered to all patients scheduled for mastectomy.
Long-term survival and second malignant tumor prediction in pediatric, adolescent, and young adult cancer survivors using Random Survival Forests: a SEER analysis
Authors: Zhang Ivy Y. , Hart Gregory R. , Qin Bo , Deng Jun
Published: February 2023

Survival and second malignancy prediction models can aid clinical decision making. Most commonly, survival analysis studies are performed using traditional proportional hazards models, which require strong assumptions and can lead to biased estimates if violated. Therefore, this study aims to implement an alternative, machine learning (ML) model for survival analysis: Random Survival Forest (RSF). In this study, RSFs were built using the U.S. Surveillance Epidemiology and End Results to (1) predict 30-year survival in pediatric, adolescent, and young adult cancer survivors; and (2) predict risk and site of a second tumor within 30 years of the first tumor diagnosis in these age groups. The final RSF model for pediatric, adolescent, and young adult survival has an average Concordance index (C-index) of 92.9%, 94.2%, and 94.4% and average time-dependent area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) at 30-years since first diagnosis of 90.8%, 93.6%, 96.1% respectively. The final RSF model for pediatric, adolescent, and young adult second malignancy has an average C-index of 86.8%, 85.2%, and 88.6% and average time-dependent AUC at 30-years since first diagnosis of 76.5%, 88.1%, and 99.0% respectively. This study suggests the robustness and potential clinical value of ML models to alleviate physician burden by quickly identifying highest risk individuals.
Atomistic-geometric simulations to investigate the mechanical stability of monocrystalline sI methane hydrates under pressure
Authors: Zhu Xiaodan , Guerra André , Servio Phillip , Rey Alejandro D.
Published: February 2023

Gas hydrate mechanical stability under pressure is critically important in energy supply, global warming, and carbon-neutral technologies. The stability of these polyhedral guest–host crystals under increasing pressure is affected by host cage type and face connectivity as well as guest gas occupancy. The geometry-imposed cage connectivity generates crystal lattices that include inclusion-matrix material composite structures. In this paper, we integrate Density Functional Theory simulations with a polyhedral-inspired composite material model that quantifies stability limits, failure modes, and the impact of the type of cage occupancy. DFT reveals the existence of two failure mechanisms under increasing pressure: (i) a multistep lattice breakdown under total occupancy and under only large cage occupancy and (ii) a single-step breakdown under zero occupancy as well as with only small cage occupancy. The DFT-composite model predicts optimal occupancy pathways to generate strength and critical occupancy pathways to promote decomposition.
Soil moisture-constrained East Asian Monsoon meridional patterns over China from observations
Authors: Ullah Waheed , Zhu Chenxia , Wang Guojie , Hagan Daniel Fiifi Tawia , Lou Dan , Wei Jiangfeng , Karim Aisha , Li Shijie , Su Buda , Jiang Tong
Published: February 2023

As an internal forcing of the earth climate system, soil moisture (SM) significantly influences the water and energy cycle by controlling evapotranspiration and terrestrial solar energy. The current study used observed precipitation, remotely sensed SM, and reanalysis of atmosphere and land parameters to assess the East Asian Monsoon (EAM) precipitation variability due to meridional SM oscillations across China. A generalized linear method, namely coupled manifold technique (CMT) for assessing the reciprocal forcing between two climate fields and numerical simulations are applied to SM and EAM precipitation. We find that the EAM precipitation interannual variability between north and south China significantly correlates with SM meridional oscillation. The CMT results further showed that SM forcing has a significant (99% confidence) influence on the EAM precipitation explaining about 0.40 of the variance ratio in north and south China. The EAM and SM composite analysis show that the wetter (drier) north (south) oscillates the EAM precipitation over the north (south) of China and vice versa due to SM thermal controls. We then used control and sensitivity simulations with SM observations to further validate the findings implying that SM can potentially improve the interannual EAM forecast skills. The model results show that a wetter (drier) north (south) results in negative (positive) sensible heat (latent heat) anomalies that impact the boundary layer and propagate to change the meridional atmospheric heating profile. When positive (negative) SM anomalies exist over northern (southern) China, the zonal easterlies and extratropical westerlies move to north China causing above-normal precipitation that descends into southern China, suppressing subtropical westerlies and precipitation in southern China. On the contrary, a dry (wet) north (south) favors intensified subtropical westerlies and precipitation in southern China. The findings have dire implications for the water and energy cycle of the region in the projected wetting and drying patterns of the north (south).
Integrative multi-omics networks identify PKCδ and DNA-PK as master kinases of glioblastoma subtypes and guide targeted cancer therapy
Authors: Migliozzi Simona , Oh Young Taek , Hasanain Mohammad , Garofano Luciano , D’Angelo Fulvio , Najac Ryan D. , Picca Alberto , Bielle Franck , Di Stefano Anna Luisa , Lerond Julie , Sarkaria Jann N. , Ceccarelli Michele , Sanson Marc , Lasorella Anna , Iavarone Antonio
Published: February 2023

Despite producing a panoply of potential cancer-specific targets, the proteogenomic characterization of human tumors has yet to demonstrate value for precision cancer medicine. Integrative multi-omics using a machine-learning network identified master kinases responsible for effecting phenotypic hallmarks of functional glioblastoma subtypes. In subtype-matched patient-derived models, we validated PKCδ and DNA-PK as master kinases of glycolytic/plurimetabolic and proliferative/progenitor subtypes, respectively, and qualified the kinases as potent and actionable glioblastoma subtype-specific therapeutic targets. Glioblastoma subtypes were associated with clinical and radiomics features, orthogonally validated by proteomics, phospho-proteomics, metabolomics, lipidomics and acetylomics analyses, and recapitulated in pediatric glioma, breast and lung squamous cell carcinoma, including subtype specificity of PKCδ and DNA-PK activity. We developed a probabilistic classification tool that performs optimally with RNA from frozen and paraffin-embedded tissues, which can be used to evaluate the association of therapeutic response with glioblastoma subtypes and to inform patient selection in prospective clinical trials.
Systemic GDF11 attenuates depression-like phenotype in aged mice via stimulation of neuronal autophagy
Authors: Moigneu Carine , Abdellaoui Soumia , Ramos-Brossier Mariana , Pfaffenseller Bianca , Wollenhaupt-Aguiar Bianca , de Azevedo Cardoso Taiane , Camus Claire , Chiche Aurélie , Kuperwasser Nicolas , Azevedo da Silva Ricardo , Pedrotti Moreira Fernanda , Li Han , Oury Franck , Kapczinski Flávio , Lledo Pierre-Marie , Katsimpardi Lida
Published: February 2023

Cognitive decline and mood disorders increase in frequency with age. Many efforts are focused on the identification of molecules and pathways to treat these conditions. Here, we demonstrate that systemic administration of growth differentiation factor 11 (GDF11) in aged mice improves memory and alleviates senescence and depression-like symptoms in a neurogenesis-independent manner. Mechanistically, GDF11 acts directly on hippocampal neurons to enhance neuronal activity via stimulation of autophagy. Transcriptomic and biochemical analyses of these neurons reveal that GDF11 reduces the activity of mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), a master regulator of autophagy. Using a murine model of corticosterone-induced depression-like phenotype, we also show that GDF11 attenuates the depressive-like behavior of young mice. Analysis of sera from young adults with major depressive disorder (MDD) reveals reduced GDF11 levels. These findings identify mechanistic pathways related to GDF11 action in the brain and uncover an unknown role for GDF11 as an antidepressant candidate and biomarker.
Lectures On Spin Dynamics: The Theoretical Minimum
Authors: Pileio Giuseppe
Published: February 2023

This book consists of a series of lectures introducing what the author believes to be the theoretical minimum for the understanding of nuclear spin dynamics, the branch of physics underpinning magnetic resonance techniques such as NMR and MRI. Spin dynamics ultimately concern the study of the state and time evolution of systems made by a large collection of particles possessing spin, one of the most subtle and indeed fascinating concepts in relativistic quantum mechanics and whose understanding requires a mix of quantum mechanics, Hamiltonian dynamics and advanced mathematics.

Written in the concise and direct style appropriate for university lectures, this book is addressed to both undergraduate and postgraduate students who are approaching magnetic resonance studies and want to reach the theoretical minimum required to understand the wider topic and its main applications. The book is suitable for researchers who work in the field of magnetic resonance and want to know more about its theoretical fundamentals. Finally, built as a complete set of 12 lectures and 4 workshops, the book can act as a solid reference to lecturers of magnetic resonance university modules.

Trained in a world-leading research laboratory internationally recognised for its contributions to the NMR field, the author has a track record in theoretical and methodological developments of nuclear spin dynamics. In this book, he tries to merge his passion for the understanding of physics through its mathematical rendering with his personal quest for the elegance of a clean, clear and satisfactory explanation.
Introduction to Stereochemistry
Authors: Clark Andrew , Kitson Russ , Mistry Nimesh , Taylor Paul , Taylor Matthew , Lloyd Michael , Akamune Caroline
Published: February 2023

CHEMISTRY STUDENT GUIDES. GUIDED BY STUDENTS

Why did the drug thalidomide cause birth defects? What is the chemical difference between sucrose and lactose in your food? Stereochemistry holds the answer and is essential to the understanding of the chemistry of life.

Stereochemistry is an important concept that often causes confusion amongst students when they learn it for the first time. Unlike most other areas of chemistry, it requires the chemist to visualise molecules in 3D, which can be difficult. In this book we deal with tricky concepts like conformation and configuration, how to represent them accurately and how to use the correct terms to describe them in both organic and inorganic chemistry. We involved students in the writing process to ensure we deal with areas that you find difficult, in an understandable language. With problems designed to focus on common errors and misconceptions, real life examples, and practical hands-on exercises coupled with visualisation tips, our intention is to give you the tools to become confident in stererochemistry.

Complementing mainstream organic textbooks, or self-study, this book is for anyone who has struggled with describing alkenes as E or Z, assigning R and S absolute configurations, drawing Newman projections or chair representations of cyclohexanes, axial chirality, understanding the stereochemistry of octahedral metal complexes and indeed explaining complexities observed in NMR spectra.

Chemistry Student Guides are written with current students involved at every stage, guiding the books towards the most challenging aspects of the topic. Student co-authors for Introduction to Stereochemistry are Caroline Akamune, Michael Lloyd and Matthew Taylor.
Introduction to Contextual Maths in Chemistry
Authors: Dickinson Fiona , McKinley Andrew
Published: February 2023

CHEMISTRY STUDENT GUIDES. GUIDED BY STUDENTS

For any student who has ever struggled with a mathematical understanding of chemistry, this book is for you.

Mathematics is the essential tool for physical scientists. We know that confidence in using mathematics early on in a chemistry degree builds a solid foundation for further study. However, applying the abstract mathematics taught in schools to chemical phenomena is one of the biggest challenges that chemistry students face.

In this book, we take a ‘chemistry-first’ approach. We link the mathematics to recognisable chemical concepts, building on high school chemistry, to facilitate deeper understanding. We cover the practical mathematical skills, including representation of data as tables and graphs, and give an overview of error handling in the physical sciences. More advanced mathematical concepts are introduced, using calculus to determine kinetic rate laws, intermolecular forces and in quantifying energetic change in thermodynamics. We also introduce the concept of the complex number and its role in considering quantum wave functions, widely used in computational chemistry.

There are worked examples and problem sets to provide plenty of practise material to build proficiency. We also include insights from real students, which identify common problem areas and provide the prompts that helped them to overcome these.

Chemistry Student Guides are written with current students involved at every stage, guiding the books towards the most challenging aspects of the topic.
Around the World in 18 Elements
Authors: Scott David
Published: February 2023

Written with both students and educators in mind, this book presents a tour of the elements found in the British "A" level syllabus. Each chapter presents a key concept of chemistry in the context of the element, instilling a wider background in chemistry to the reader, which can then be tested by questions in the text. Students of chemistry will enjoy this informative approach to revision, while educators will gain inspiration for planning lessons and discussing concepts. International baccalaureate and foundation-year students will also benefit from the topics presented in this accessible textbook. Find out more, including resources, at http://www.rsc.org/learn-chemistry/resource/res00001996/around-the-world-in-18-elements-book.
Chemistry at Home: Exploring the Ingredients in Everyday Products
Authors: Emsley John
Published: February 2023

Hand cream, detergent, shower gel, toothpaste, toilet cleaner, air freshener, lipstick, perfume, low-fat spread, painkiller, diet drink, insect repellent… hundreds of everyday products that make our lives so much better than those of our forebears. And yet most of us know little about the ingredients they contain and why they deliver the benefits we enjoy.

Some people find it worrying when they examine the list of ingredients on a packaging label, because all they read may be unintelligible names or E numbers. It appears to be just chemicals, chemicals, chemicals. The aim of this book is to examine the ingredients more closely and explain the reasons for their being used.

Start reading and stop worrying.

Chemistry at Home has been written by award-winning popular science writer and chemist, John Emsley, using non-technical language. The book has 12 chapters, each devoted to the kinds of products we are likely to find around the home, including in the garage and the garden shed. Chemistry at Home also includes a glossary which gives more technical information about the molecules mentioned in the book.
The Science of Chocolate
Authors: Beckett Stephen T
Published: February 2023

The Science of Chocolate leads the reader to an understanding of the complete chocolate making process and includes the ways in which basic science plays a vital role in its manufacture, testing and consumption. Originally based upon a talk to encourage school children to study science, the book is now widely used within industry and academia.

The third edition of this international best seller has been fully revised and updated. The author has now included methods of sensory evaluation, designing and modifying chocolate flavour to suit the product and the history and manufacture of some well-known confectionery products. Fat, calorie and sugar reduction are also covered including a review of patents in this area. In addition, the section on why chocolate might be good for you has been updated to include some more recent research results. Three new experiments have been added, so there are now twenty of them, which use simple materials and apparatus to demonstrate the scientific and mathematical principles found in the rest of the book. Most are easily adapted to suit different student abilities.

This book will appeal to those with a fascination for chocolate and will be of specialist interest to those studying food sciences and working in the confectionery industry.

Extracts from reviews of 2nd Edition:

"...I found this to be an interesting read, and I think the book would be useful to graduates thinking of a career in the food industry (and not just the chocolate industry specifically), to schoolteachers looking for some interesting experiments, and to lecturers (Chemistry, Biochemistry, Botany, Food science) looking for interesting facts to enliven their lectures."

Bioscience Education, Volume 12, 2008, E J Wood.

"...very well written and complete book for everyone who wants to learn more about chocolate and its production process."

Crystallography Reviews, Volume 15, 2009 – Issue 4, pages 275-277, Henk Schenk.

"The easy reading style of the book makes it valuable not only to school and university students, but also to those who are new to working with chocolate or those needing a good summary of chocolate science."

Chemistry World, for the Christmas Books
The Chemistry of Human Nature
Authors: Husband Tom
Published: February 2023

Why does chocolate taste so good? Why do we seek 'the one'? How do traits such as intelligence, creativity and violence arise and what purpose do they serve? This book links these characteristics to the origins of life, showing that the conditions necessary to bring life into existence echo through our modern day behaviour.

The chemistry of the body is not only fascinating but also highly relevant to everyone, since we are all concerned with maximising our health and enjoyment of life. Currently, there are not many popular science books concerned with biochemistry. One reason for this might be the particularly complex nature of the science involved. This book starts with the fundamentals and then works towards a deeper understanding of the chemistry of human nature. Essential reading for anyone with an interest in this science and written at a level accessible to experts and non-experts alike.
The Chemistry of Explosives
Authors: Akhavan Jacqueline
Published: February 2023

This concise, easy-to-read book outlines the basic principles needed to understand the chemical mechanisms of explosion. Written for students with no previous knowledge of explosives but some understanding of chemical reactions in mind, it takes the reader through the history of explosives and introduces the concepts of high explosives, propellants and pyrotechnics.

Covering combustion, deflagration, and detonation; ignition, initiation, and thermal decomposition; thermochemistry, thermodynamics and kinetics, the text includes detailed formulations and reactions presented with thermochemical calculations to aid understanding. This edition includes environmental legislation and its impact on explosives, together with a section on safety hazard tests. It also contains the latest developments in synthesis and manufacturing of explosives.

Covering all aspects of the properties of explosives, The Chemistry of Explosives is a unique text which introduces difficult subjects in a readable manner. Ideal for A-level students and new graduates with no previous knowledge of explosive materials, it will also be useful to anyone needing succinct information on the subject, such as the more experienced chemist in the explosives sector.
Green Chemistry: An Introductory Text
Authors: Lancaster Mike
Published: February 2023

Sustainable development, the circular economy and environmental issues are at the forefront of public and Government concern. The field of green chemistry aims to provide environmentally benign products from sustainable resources, using processes that do not harm people or the environment at the same time as helping solve key societal problems such as climate change. Updated throughout, this third edition features an expanded section on legislation, a revised chapter on measurement, and a completely re-written chapter on renewable resources, bringing readers the latest developments in this quickly-growing area. Case studies now include more recent examples of real-world applications from industry to demonstrate how the techniques of green chemistry work in practice. This fascinating textbook is suitable for undergraduate and postgraduate courses covering green chemistry, and it encourages new ways of thinking about how products and processes are developed.
The Organic Chemistry of Isotopic Labelling
Authors: Hanson James R
Published: February 2023

The chemical synthesis of isotopically labelled compounds is a pre-requisite for many chemical, biochemical and medicinal investigations. The constraints imposed by the requirements for regiospecific labelling and, in some instances, the time-scale of the synthesis often lead to quite different synthetic strategies to those that are used for the unlabelled material. Whilst there are many specialist papers, reviews and long books devoted to particular isotopes, there is no currently available short introductory book devoted to the organic chemistry of isotopic labelling. The aim of this book is to introduce research workers to a variety of methods that have been used to achieve these synthetic labelling objectives before exploring a particular method in detail. It covers a number of different isotopes and the methods that have been used to introduce them into organic compounds. Labelling methods also provide useful undergraduate teaching examples of modern synthetic reactions and their stereochemical consequences using relatively simple substrates. The book will therefore have a wider appeal than just those involved in using isotopes in research such as environmental and pharmaceutical chemists as well as organic chemists.
A First Course in Electrode Processes
Authors: Pletcher Derek
Published: February 2023

This user friendly introduction highlights the importance of electrochemistry and its applications to the modern world and the future. In contrast to other texts currently available, it emphasises understanding and avoids using many pages of complex equations. It also describes the diverse applications of electrochemistry rather than focusing on analytical chemistry alone. Although the book follows a similar structure to the first edition, the earlier chapters have been extensively up-dated and the later chapters are entirely new. The text is supported by a large number of figures which illustrate key points. The book starts by describing the essential electrochemical techniques before moving on to cover experimental problems and applications. To reflect the present interest in fuel cells and the environment, these have become the focus of the final chapters. A useful appendix contains problems with fully worked answers to test the reader's understanding.
A Practical Guide to Quasi-elastic Neutron Scattering
Authors: Telling Mark T F
Published: February 2023

The technique of Quasi-Elastic Neutron Scattering (QENS) is a powerful experimental tool for extracting temporal and spatial information at the nanoscale from both soft and hard condensed matter systems. However, while seemingly simple, the method is beset with sensitivities that, if ill considered, can hinder data interpretation and possibly publication. By highlighting key theoretical and data evaluation aspects of the technique, this specialised ‘primer style’ training resource encourages research success by guiding new researchers through a typical QENS experiment; from planning and sample preparation considerations to data reduction and subsequent analysis. Research examples are referenced throughout to illustrate the concepts addressed, with the book being written in such a way that it remains accessible to chemists, biologists, physicists, and materials scientists.
Research Project Success: The Essential Guide for Science and Engineering Students
Authors: McCormac Cliodhna , Davis James , Papakonstantinou Pagona , Ward Neil I
Published: February 2023

The undergraduate research project is almost universally treated as the culmination of all previous lecture, lab and tutorial work. The project allows for the development of individuality and confers ownership of a challenge possessing an originality that goes far beyond the communal legacy presented by age old lab scenarios. Central to this is the magical transition of the student from a consumer of knowledge to a producer, yet the journey is often both daunting and perplexing when considering where to start and how to reach the destination using the resources provided and in the allotted time. There are numerous books within the social sciences which provide students with guidance on how to conduct a "successful" project but few can be found in relation to the physical sciences. This can be ascribed to the fact that the former has a very similar structure and procedural methodology whereas the latter can possess a near fractal differentiation into a myriad of sub disciplines and specialisms thereby preventing the provision of a single, expansive catchall text. This book adapts some of the components and ethos of the Projects in Controlled Environments (PRinCE2) project management approach to physical science projects. This is the industry and government standard and was introduced to address the common causes of project failure ie. not delivering projects on time, within budget, within scope or to the right quality. It has rapidly emerged as an international standard and most graduates will doubtless encounter it upon moving outside academia and into the wider world. It is a concise, multilevel resource that provides guidance on the core components common to almost every project within the physical, engineering and life sciences (problem assessment and contextualisation, literature review practices, sources and citation, data presentation, reporting styles, data analysis and error etc). It standardises the delivery of the material but, more importantly, links the components together by outlining a coherent procedural road map that can highlight to the student "what to do", "when to do it" and "how to solve it" procedures. The content of the book is presented through case studies so as to enhance the relevance of the processes, presents examples of good practice and, in keeping with the toolbox approach, can be readily adapted and applied by the students. The book is an accessible reference guide for students, written in a light style, suitable for dipping in and out of as required and the "how to/when to/what if" examples are presented in an often humorous light. It includes flow charts to emphasize the project planning, dissertation components etc and charts to highlight presentation of data, analysis, interpretation and error.
Inorganic Electrochemistry Theory, Practice and Application
Authors: Zanello Piero , Nervi Carlo , Fabrizi de Biani Fabrizia
Published: February 2023

In order to understand the basic aspects of an electrochemical investigation on inorganic molecules (in its widest meaning, of any molecule which contains at least one metal centre) it must be taken into account that in these molecules the metal-ligand bonds are of the prevailingly covalent type. Since electrochemical techniques allow you to add or remove electrons in a controlled manner, it is conceivable that the addition or removal of electrons inside these molecules can lead to the formation of new bonds or to the breakage of existing bonds. The main aim of this book is to study the effects of such electron addition and removal processes on the molecular frames. The second edition of this classic book has been fully revised and updated and is a straightforward, logical introduction to electrochemical investigations for inorganic chemists. All chapters have been rewritten with new material including: - the addition of reactivity with nitric oxide to the chapter on the reactivity of metal complexes with small molecules - thiolate-protected gold nanoclusters has been added to the chapter on metal-sulfur and metal-carbonyl clusters - a new chapter on the digital simulation of electrochemical responses - a new chapter on the theoretical calculations to explain the nature of the electrochemical activity of metal complexes - new chapters on spectroelectrochemistry and electrochemiluminescence. The book covers every aspect of inorganic electrochemistry - the introduction is followed by chapters on the basic aspects of electrochemistry followed by practical and applicative aspects and ends with full appendices. It is probably the only publication with a simple approach to electrochemical aspects of the topics in inorganic chemistry. Bridging the gap between undergraduate and research-level electrochemistry books, this publication will be a welcome addition to the literature of inorganic chemists. It will also be particularly useful to final year students in chemistry and as background reading for graduates and researchers without adequate electrochemical knowledge to become active in the discipline or who want to collaborate with electrochemists.
Brewing
Authors: Hornsey Ian
Published: February 2023

It is believed that beer has been produced, in some form, for thousands of years - the ancient Egyptians being one civilization with a knowledge of the fermentation process. Beer production has seen many changes over the centuries, and Brewing, Second Edition brings the reader right up to date with the advances in the last decade. Covering the various stages of beer production, reference is also made to microbiology within the brewery and some pointers to research on the topic are given. Written by a recently retired brewer, this book will appeal to all beer-lovers, but particularly those within the industry who wish to understand the processes, and will be relevant to students of food or biological sciences.
Fabrication of high-performance cell-imprinted polymers based on AuNPs/MXene composites via metal-free visible light-induced ATRP
Authors: Cui Ailu , Meng Peiran , Hu Jing , Yang Huimin , Yang Zuan , Li Hongchao , Sun Yue
Published: February 2023

Cell-imprinted polymers for yeasts were fabricated via metal-free visible-light-induced atom transfer radical polymerization on the surface of a glassy carbon electrode which had been modified with gold nanoparticles/MXene (Ti3C2Tx) composites.
Controlling DNA nanodevices with light-switchable buffers
Authors: Périllat Valentin Jean , Del Grosso Erica , Berton Cesare , Ricci Francesco , Pezzato Cristian
Published: February 2023

DNA-based nanodevices can be actuated using solely visible light in photo-switchable aqueous buffer solutions in a reversible and highly programmable manner.
Carbon encapsulated hybrid Fe-based nanostructure with durable lithium storage
Authors: Chen Xiaoyun , Shi Xiaomeng , Cheng Mingren , Zhang Mengzhen , Ma Jiamin , Liang Zhong , Zhai Xinyun , Du Yaping
Published: February 2023

N-doped carbon coated Fe3O4was synthesized from MIL-53(Fe) coated PDA as a precursor and used as an anode material for LIBs.
Molecular dynamics simulation of the impact of the surface topology of carbon black on the mechanical properties of elastomer nanocomposites
Authors: Zhang Ziyi , Fang Yue , Chen Qionghai , Duan Pengwei , Wu Xiaohui , Zhang Liqun , Wu Wenjie , Liu Jun
Published: February 2023

A coarse-grained molecular dynamics simulation was employed to examine the relationship between the morphology of carbon black particles and the mechanical properties of elastomer nanocomposites.
Stable multifunctional aluminum phosphides at high pressures
Authors: Su Yuan , Wang Haiyan , Li Simin , Sun Weiguo , Li Dan , Peng Feng
Published: February 2023

Phosphides have been used in a wide range of applications due to their excellent optical, mechanical, and catalytic properties.
Resistance to a tyrosine kinase inhibitor mediated by changes to the conformation space of the kinase
Authors: Freire Thales Souza , Caracelli Ignez , Zukerman-Schpector Julio , Friedman Ran
Published: February 2023

Gilteritinib is an effective inhibitor of the FLT3/ITD mutated protein, and is used in treating acute myeloid leukaemia (AML), but resistance due to mutations in the protein is a problem. We studied how resistance is mediated using advanced simulation methods.
Grape bunches of novel conjugated chain bonded fullerene oligomers: design of a potential electron trap carbonaceous molecular material
Authors: Yuan Kun , Lv Lingling , Xu Yan , Liu Yanzhi , Li Mengyang , Zhao Yaoxiao , Zhao Xiang
Published: February 2023

A series of novel conjugated chain bonded fullerene C60 oligomers (CBFOs) with a well-defined nano-architecture and excellent electron-accepting ability are designed based on fullerene carbenes by means of theoretical calculations.
Giant kinks in the entropy change temperature dependence of the magnetocaloric effect in layered phase-separated metals
Authors: Igoshev P. A. , Gramateeva L. N. , Lukoyanov A. V.
Published: February 2023

The temperature and electron filling dependencies of the entropy change in phase separation regions for the case of the Hubbard model on the square lattice are investigated in detail.
Stimuli-responsive mechanically interlocked molecules constructed from cucurbit[n]uril homologues and derivatives
Authors: Liu Jing-Xin , Chen Kai , Redshaw Carl
Published: February 2023

This review covers the important advances in the field of cucurbit[n]uril-based mechanically interlocked molecules over the past two decades.
Thiamine carbene liganded gold(i) chloride catalyzes an efficient aldehyde–alkyne–amine coupling reaction in water
Authors: Narra Rajashekar Reddy , Unnithan Vignesh Gopalakrishnan , Wong Ting Hei , Guo Zhihong
Published: February 2023

Thiamine (vitamin B1) carbene liganded gold(i) chloride efficiently catalyses an aldehyde–alkyne–amine (A3) coupling reaction in open air under solvent-free conditions or in water.
Highly efficient mRNA delivery with nonlinear microfluidic cell stretching for cellular engineering
Authors: Kwon Chan , Chung Aram J.
Published: February 2023

We present a novel nonlinear microfluidic cell stretching (μ-cell stretcher) platform that leverages viscoelastic fluids, i.e., methylcellulose (MC) solutions, and cell mechanoporation for highly efficient and robust intracellular mRNA delivery.
A versatile platform for graphene nanoribbon synthesis, electronic decoupling, and spin polarized measurements
Authors: Cahlík Aleš , Liu Danyang , Zengin Berk , Taskin Mert , Schwenk Johannes , Natterer Fabian Donat
Published: February 2023

Decoupling oxide layers, magnetic cobalt islands, and on-surface synthesis of nano-graphenes, paired with easy spin-polarization.
Designing ordered mesoporous confined Pt/Ti0.1AlOy catalysts for the catalytic combustion of propane
Authors: Liu Liqiong , Han Weiliang , Dong Fang , Feng Hua , Tang Zhicheng
Published: February 2023

The framework-confined Pt/Ti0.1AlOy-EISA catalyst shows better activity and thermal stability, while Pt/Ti0.1AlOy-VI has better water and sulfur resistance.