bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ubiquitin Pathway
Authors: Peschiaroli Angelo , Lam Y Amy , Pickart Cecile M , Barlev Nickolai A , Melino Gerry , Bernassola Francesca
Published: May 2017

Ubiquitination is an enzymatic process that involves the covalent attachment of the conserved protein ubiquitin to a substrate. Protein ubiquitination is carried out by the sequential and coordinate actions of three enzymes and can be removed by deubiquitinases. Modification of proteins by addition of ubiquitin exerts both proteolytic‐dependent and proteolytic‐independent functions. Polyubiquitin chains act as a signal for 26S proteasome‐mediated degradation. Ubiquitination plays a central regulatory role in a number of cellular processes such as receptor endocytosis, cell cycle control, transcription, DNA repair, gene silencing and stress response. The ubiquitin proteasome system (UPS) is critical for the proper turnover of both oncoproteins and tumour suppressor molecules. As a result, it is not surprising that aberrations within the UPS often result in a neoplastic phenotype.

Key Concepts

Ubiquitination is an ATP‐dependent and reversible process through which ubiquitin is covalently attached to a polypeptide.

The topology of the polyubiquitin chains dictates the fate of the modified protein.

Deubiquitinating enzymes (DUBs) are proteases that reversely modify proteins by removing ubiquitin.

The RING finger type E3 ligases crucially control cell cycle entry and progression.

The proteasome is a proteolytic ‘machinery’ that digests proteins into short polypeptides.

The ubiquitin proteasome system (UPS) degrades 80–90% of all intracellular proteins.

The UPS regulates the timing and extent of protein turnover.
Immunoassay
Authors: Wu Alan
Published: May 2017

Immunoassays are analytical techniques that are widely used to detect and quantitate the concentration of a protein, metabolite, or drug in a biological sample. They are performed in essentially every clinical laboratory in the world today. Results are used by doctors to screen and diagnose diseases, monitor the progress of therapy, and predict those who will develop medical problems in the future. Immunoassays are also the mainstays in research, for example, understanding the pathophysiology of medical disorders in order to develop novel drugs. In order to meet specific testing needs, immunoassays have been developed in a variety of formats. Most of them depend on the unique features of the reaction between an antigen and its complementary antibody to achieve specificity for the analyte of interest. However, other antigen‐binding materials are increasingly being used.

Key Concepts

Antibodies are raised in non‐human species targeted to specific epitope of the intended target (antigen).

Some assays are subjected to interferences due to the presence of unusual antibodies in the sample (heterophile and human anti‐animal antibodies).

The use of chimeric and humanised antibodies improves the performance of immunoassays over those antibodies that are 100% animal.

Heterogeneous immunoassays require a physical separation between antibody‐bound and free analytes.

Homogeneous immunoassays do not require a physical separation step.

Antigens present in excess concentrations can produce falsely low results in both immunoprecipitation (prozone) and immunometric (hook effect) assays.

Point‐of‐care devices make use of immunochromatographic assays.

There are a variety of detectors used in immunoassays such as enzymes, fluorophores, luminescent tags, electrochemical reactions and immunosensors.

Multiplexing immunoassays can be accomplished through microbead or microchip arrays.
Allele Spectrum of Human Genetic Disease
Authors: Weiss Kenneth M
Published: May 2017

The allelic spectrum of a disease refers to the number of places in the genome in which DNA sequence variation affects a specified disease, and the relative frequencies of these individual alleles in a population or sample. Most variants will be relatively rare compared with other alleles at their respective location and most typically will have individually weak effects on the risk of the disease. Because variation arises locally by mutation, and spreads only slowly, and because most variants are due to recent mutation, the predominant part of the spectrum consists of many rare variants. However, for all but the simplest of diseases, the effect of a variant, and hence its presence in the disease's allelic spectrum, is dependent on the individual genomic and environmental contexts in which it is found.

Key Concepts

Mutation and recombination produce variation.

The amount of variation varies over time and among populations.

Allelic variation contributing to disease is often spread across many sites within a gene or many genes.

The frequency of most variants is small, as are their typical effects.

The effects of an allele typically depend on its genomic and environmental context in the individual.
Pattern Recognition Receptors
Authors: Childs KS , Goodbourn S
Published: May 2017

Multicellular organisms continually come into contact with microbes in the environment, and protecting themselves from infection is vital to their survival. The innate immune system has a critically important role in acting as a first line of defence against this threat, by rapidly detecting and destroying any foreign invaders. Recognition of pathogens by the innate immune system is achieved through the actions of a large collection of pattern recognition receptors that bind to unique features of pathogens called pathogen‐associated molecular patterns that are not normally found in the host. Recognition is followed by the production of cytokines and chemokines and activation of innate immune responses that restrict, destroy and dispose of the pathogen and promote the subsequent activation of an adaptive immune response.

Key Concepts

Pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) detect foreign molecules associated with pathogens, termed pathogen‐associated molecular patterns (PAMPs).

PAMPs are specific to groups of pathogens and are not normally found in the host.

PRRs are found in different tissues and in different subcellular compartments according to the types of pathogen that they recognise.

Activation of PRRs leads to innate immune responses that destroy the pathogen.
D
arwinian Evolution of Tumours
Authors: He Xionglei , Chen Han
Published: May 2017

Tumours as a human disease have been studied mostly from a mechanistic perspective in the past decades. It is now increasingly clear that tumourigenesis as an evolving process can be fully understood only in the light of evolution. Recent studies highlight the necessity of connecting the microevolution of a tumour with the macroevolution from unicellular life to metazoan multicellularity, which occurred ∼600 million years ago. With this background in mind, we discuss here the diverse, sometimes conflicting, views with regard to the driving forces of tumour evolution. Specifically, we show how mutation, selection, drift, migration, gain of function versus loss of function, genetic factors versus non‐genetic factors and deterministic forces versus stochasticity may affect the trajectory of a tumour evolution as well as our understanding.

Key Concepts

Tumourigenesis is a by‐product of the macroevolutionary event from unicellular life to metazoan multicellularity that occurred ∼600 million years ago.

Tumour progression is a microevolutionary process of the asexual tumour cell population, driven in part by forces typical to organismal evolution.

Unlike long‐term organismal evolution, which is driven exclusively by genetic forces, the short‐term tumour evolution can be affected heavily by epigenetic alterations. As a result, the decoupling between genetic divergence and expression divergence is expected.

Tumour evolution represents a reversal of the macroevolution from unicellularity to multicellularity, by erasing the constraints evolved for the maintenance of multicellularity. As a result, loss of function plays a more important role than gain of function.

Regardless of the external tissue environments, nearly all tumours evolve towards a predetermined cellular destination with properties typical to unicellular life.

Tumour evolution is driven by both deterministic factors and stochastic factors. Recognition of this helps reconcile development and evolution, two distinct languages in the cancer research community, with the former spoken mostly by cell biologists who advocate fixed cellular programmes as driving forces and the latter spoken by geneticists who appreciate the apparent stochasticity of driver gene mutations.
Health Assessment of Children Being Adopted: Practice, Challenges and Dilemmas
Authors: Sampeys Carolyn , Barnes Peter
Published: May 2017

The medical adviser in adoption is a statutory role, usually undertaken by an experienced community paediatrician. A key task of the medical adviser is the provision of a comprehensive preadoption health report on a child for whom the local authority plan is adoption. The vast majority of children being placed for adoption come from the care system and are likely to have adverse childhood experiences. The medical adviser collates information about the birth family health history, the child's prenatal and birth information, early development and health, alongside early life experiences and advises on the relevance of this information. Close working links between the medical adviser in adoption and other key professionals are important in order to achieve the best outcomes for this special group of children, including the provision of post‐adoption support. Dilemmas and challenges are commonly encountered by those who undertake this role.

Key Concepts

The medical adviser in adoption has a key role in collating all available health information and sharing this with the adoption agency and prospective adoptive parents.

A quality preadoption health assessment and report are essential for matching a child with prospective adoptive parents.

A preadoption health report should include information about the health of the child's birth family, the child's birth and identified antenatal factors, early health and development and life experiences with guidance provided around the potential future implications of these factors.

Adoption is a lifelong journey and new/additional health information in the birth family may come to light at any point. Mechanisms are required to ensure that this is shared and discussed appropriately.

Close working relationships between the medical adviser in adoption and adoption agency staff/local authority social workers are crucial.

Dilemmas and challenges are commonly encountered by those who undertake this role.

The needs of the child are paramount in the process of adoption.
Legume Nitrogen Fixation and Soil Abiotic Stress: From Physiology to Genomics and Beyond
Authors: Valentine Alex J. , Benedito Vagner A. , Kang Yun
Published: May 2017

Legumes are important components of the nitrogen cycle on land. Agricultural systems have traditionally relied much on legumes for nitrogen input because many species are able to establish symbioses with diazotrophic bacteria (rhizobia) and thus trade metabolites and reduced compounds. Photosynthates produced in the leaves are allocated to the root nodule to supply the bacteroids with carbon, in exchange for reduced nitrogen (ammonia) produced by the rhizobia from atmospheric nitrogen. Despite its major significance to plant breeding and sustainable agriculture, the impact of abiotic stresses on nodule development and stability and on symbiotic nitrogen fixation remains poorly understood, particularly at the molecular level. However, the study of model legume species and the development of a plethora of resources, particularly the elucidation of the genome sequences of three legume species, are now revealing many traits of agricultural importance in legumes as well as other aspects that are not easily studied in other plant models, such asArabidopsisor rice. In this chapter, we will discuss the effects of abiotic stresses, such as drought, phosphate deficiency and aluminium toxicity, on symbiotic nitrogen fixation and provide perspectives on molecular approaches to the analysis of stress responses in legumes.
Mitochondrial Redox State, Nitrogen Metabolism and Signalling
Authors: Foyer Christine H.
Published: May 2017

Nitrogen is often a limiting factor for plant growth and development, and therefore there is considerable interest and potential agronomic benefit not only in understanding the mechanisms that determine nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) but also in identifying new targets for NUE improvement. Much attention in recent years has focused on the core pathways and enzymes involved in primary nitrogen assimilation as well as the processes of N uptake and transport. However, recent studies on mitochondrial Complex I mutants indicate that enzymes involved in energy metabolism in the mitochondria could also be useful targets for improving NUE. TheNicotiana sylvestriscytoplasmic male sterile II (CMSII) mutant lacks respiratory Complex I, but high rates of respiration are sustained because of the presence of alternative NADH dehydrogenases. The CMSII mutation has striking effects on leaf amino acids, which are the focal point around which primary N assimilation and associated carbon metabolism and photorespiration and export occur, and on pyridine nucleotides, which are essential for metabolism and signalling. The absence of major mitochondrial NADH dehydrogenase (Complex I) in the CMSII mutant results in an N‐rich phenotype and altered N signalling. Adjustments in the abundance of Complex I relative to the alternative NADH dehydrogenases could therefore provide a mechanism for improved NUE.
Adaptive dynamic programming for tracking design of uncertain nonlinear systems with disturbances and input constraints
Authors: Cui Xiaohong , Zhang Huaguang , Luo Yanhong , Jiang He
Published: May 2017

In this paper, the
tracking controller is designed for uncertain nonlinear systems with external disturbances and input constraints. A discounted nonquadratic function is introduced, which encodes the constrained input into the
performance. The key difficulty for
tracking control is the requirement of solving the tracking Hamilton‐Jacobi‐Isaacs equation, which is a partial differential equation. It is impossible or extremely difficult to solve analytically even in simple cases. To overcome the difficulty, an online model‐free integral reinforcement learning (IRL) algorithm is proposed to learn online in real time the solution to the tracking Hamilton‐Jacobi‐Isaacs equation without requiring any knowledge of system dynamics. To implement it, critic‐actor‐disturbance neural networks (NNs) are built, and the 3 NNs are updated simultaneously. Stability and convergence analyses are shown by the Lyapunov method. In addition, a robust term is added to the controller to attenuate the effect of NN approximation errors, which leads to the asymptotic stability of the closed‐loop systems. Finally, 2 simulation examples show the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm.
A Ferroelectric Ceramic/Polymer Composite‐Based Capacitive Electrode Array for In Vivo Recordings
Authors: Chen Changyong , Xue Miaomiao , Wen Yige , Yao Guang , Cui Yan , Liao Feiyi , Yan Zhuocheng , Huang Long , Khan Saeed Ahmed , Gao Min , Pan Taisong , Zhang Hulin , Jing Wei , Guo Daqing , Zhang Sanfeng , Yao Hailiang , Zhou Xiong , Li Qiang , Xia Yang , Lin Yuan
Published: May 2017

A new implantable capacitive electrode array for electrocorticography signal recording is developed with ferroelectric ceramic/polymer composite. This ultrathin and electrically safe capacitive electrode array is capable of attaching to the biological tissue conformably. The barium titanate/polyimide (BaTiO3/PI) nanocomposite with high dielectric constant is successfully synthesized and employed as the ultrathin dielectric layer of the capacitive BaTiO3/PI electrode array. The performance of the capacitive BaTiO3/PI electrode array is evaluated by electrical characterization and 3D finite‐element modeling. In vivo, neural experiments on the visual cortex of rats show the reliability of the capacitive BaTiO3/PI electrode array. This work shows the potentials of capacitive BaTiO3/PI electrode array in the field of brain/computer interfaces.
Optical, Thermal, and Mechanical Characterization of Ga2Se3‐Added GLS Glass
Authors: Ravagli Andrea , Craig Christopher , Alzaidy Ghada A. , Bastock Paul , Hewak Daniel W.
Published: May 2017

Gallium lanthanum sulfide glass (GLS) has been widely studied in the last 40 years for middle‐infrared applications. In this work, the results of the substitution of selenium for sulphur in GLS glass are described. The samples are prepared via melt‐quench method in an argon‐purged atmosphere. A wide range of compositional substitutions are studied to define the glass‐forming region of the modified material. The complete substitution of Ga2S3 by Ga2Se3 is achieved by involving new higher quenching rate techniques compared to those containing only sulfides. The samples exhibiting glassy characteristics are further characterized. In particular, the optical and thermal properties of the sample are investigated in order to understand the role of selenium in the formation of the glass. The addition of selenium to GLS glass generally results in a lower glass transition temperature and an extended transmission window. Particularly, the IR edge is found to be extended from about 9 µm for GLS glass to about 15 µm for Se‐added GLS glass defined by the 50% transmission point. Furthermore, the addition of selenium does not affect the UV edge dramatically. The role of selenium is hypothesized in the glass formation to explain these changes.
Vertically Aligned Niobium Nanowire Arrays for Fast‐Charging Micro‐Supercapacitors
Authors: Mirvakili Seyed M. , Hunter Ian W.
Published: May 2017

Planar micro‐supercapacitors are attractive for system on chip technologies and surface mount devices due to their large areal capacitance and energy/power density compared to the traditional oxide‐based capacitors. In the present work, a novel material, niobium nanowires, in form of vertically aligned electrodes for application in high performance planar micro‐supercapacitors is introduced. Specific capacitance of up to 1 kF m−2 (100 mF cm−2) with peak energy and power density of 2 kJ m−2 (6.2 MJ m−3 or 1.7 mWh cm−3) and 150 kW m−2 (480 MW m−3 or 480 W cm−3), respectively, is achieved. This remarkable power density, originating from the extremely low equivalent series resistance value of 0.27 Ω (2.49 µΩ m2 or 24.9 mΩ cm2) and large specific capacitance, is among the highest for planar micro‐supercapacitors electrodes made of nanomaterials.
A Synaptic Transistor based on Quasi‐2D Molybdenum Oxide
Authors: Yang Chuan Sen , Shang Da Shan , Liu Nan , Shi Gang , Shen Xi , Yu Ri Cheng , Li Yong Qing , Sun Young
Published: May 2017

Biological synapses store and process information simultaneously by tuning the connection between two neighboring neurons. Such functionality inspires the task of hardware implementation of neuromorphic computing systems. Ionic/electronic hybrid three‐terminal memristive devices, in which the channel conductance can be modulated according to the history of applied voltage and current, provide a more promising way of emulating synapses by a substantial reduction in complexity and energy consumption. 2D van der Waals materials with single or few layers of crystal unit cells have been a widespread innovation in three‐terminal electronic devices. However, less attention has been paid to 2D transition‐metal oxides, which have good stability and technique compatibility. Here, nanoscale three‐terminal memristive transistors based on quasi‐2D α‐phase molybdenum oxide (α‐MoO3) to emulate biological synapses are presented. The essential synaptic behaviors, such as excitatory postsynaptic current, depression and potentiation of synaptic weight, and paired‐pulse facilitation, as well as the transition of short‐term plasticity to long‐term potentiation, are demonstrated in the three‐terminal devices. These results provide an insight into the potential application of 2D transition‐metal oxides for synaptic devices with high scaling ability, low energy consumption, and high processing efficiency.
Ultralarge All‐Inorganic Perovskite Bulk Single Crystal for High‐Performance Visible–Infrared Dual‐Modal Photodetectors
Authors: Song Jizhong , Cui Qingzhi , Li Jianhai , Xu Jiayue , Wang Yue , Xu Leimeng , Xue Jie , Dong Yuhui , Tian Tian , Sun Handong , Zeng Haibo
Published: May 2017

Visible‐infrared dual‐modal light harvesting is crucial for various optoelectronic devices, particularly for solar cells and photodetectors. For the first time, this study reports on large 25 cm3‐volume all‐inorganic perovskite CsPbBr3 single crystal (SC) with an emphasis on the observed visible‐infrared dual‐modal light harvesting and sensing as demonstrated by the high‐performance visible‐infrared dual‐modal photodetectors. First, ultralarge 25 cm3‐volume CsPbBr3 SC ingots with trapping state density as low as of 1 × 109 cm−3 have been achieved by a modified Bridgman growth method. The volume reported here is the largest CsPbX3 (X = Cl, Br, I) all‐inorganic perovskite system up to now, and the SC can be facilely cut into SC wafers with a diameter of 25 mm for various optoelectronic devices. Furthermore, these CsPbBr3 SCs exhibit a visible absorbance coefficient, a near‐infrared (IR) two‐phonon absorption coefficient, a carrier diffusion length, and a mobility as high as of 105 cm−1, 3.7 cm per Goeppert‐Mayer (GM), 10 µm and 2000 cm2 V−1 s−1, respectively. These merits match well to the requirements of high‐performance Vis‐IR dual‐modal light harvesting optoelectronic devices, which has been demonstrated by the CsPbBr3 SC photodetectors operated under the irradiation of both visible and IR light sources with light on/off ratio higher than 103. These results demonstrate the CsPbBr3 SCs with high visible‐infrared dual‐modal light harvesting capability and excellent electrical transporting properties have a huge potential in various optoelectronic devices, such as solar cells, photodetectors, and lasers.
Acyl Radical Addition onto Aza‐Baylis–Hillman Adducts: A Stereocontrolled Access to 2,3,5‐Trisubstituted Pyrrolidines
Authors: Grélaud Simon , Lusseau Jonathan , Massip Stéphane , Landais Yannick
Published: May 2017

Free‐radical addition of acyl radicals to chiral aza‐Baylis–Hillman adducts was shown to afford the corresponding 1,4‐amino ketones in good yields and good 1,2‐stereocontrol. These ketones were then elaborated further using conditions varying as a function of the nature of the N‐protecting group. Robust N–Ts protection thus allowed the formation, under acidic conditions, of a cyclic iminium which was reduced using bulky (Me3Si)3SiH into the corresponding 2,3,5‐pyrrolidine exhibiting a trans‐trans relative configuration. In contrast, under these conditions, the N‐Boc protecting group was removed, leading to the formation of stable dihydropyrroles, which were then hydrogenated with PtO2, leading to 2,3,5‐pyrrolidines having a trans‐cis relative configuration. When additional ketone or ester groups were present on the pyrrolidine skeleton, further cyclization led to indolizidinones and pyrrolizidines in good overall yield in 4 steps and two‐pot operations.

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High‐Performance All‐Solid‐State Lithium–Sulfur Batteries Enabled by Amorphous Sulfur‐Coated Reduced Graphene Oxide Cathodes
Authors: Yao Xiayin , Huang Ning , Han Fudong , Zhang Qiang , Wan Hongli , Mwizerwa Jean Pierre , Wang Chunsheng , Xu Xiaoxiong
Published: May 2017

Safety and the polysulfide shuttle reaction are two major challenges for liquid electrolyte lithium–sulfur (Li–S) batteries. Although use of solid‐state electrolytes can overcome these two challenges, it also brings new challenges by increasing the interface resistance and stress/strain. In this work, the interface resistance and stress/strain of sulfur cathodes are significantly reduced by conformal coating ≈2 nm sulfur (S) onto reduced graphene oxide (rGO). An Li–S full cell consisting of an rGO@S‐Li10GeP2S12‐acetylene black (AB) composite cathode is evaluated. At 60 °C, the all‐solid‐state Li–S cell demonstrates a similar electrochemical performance as in liquid organic electrolyte, with high rate capacities of 1525.6, 1384.5, 1336.3, 903.2, 502.6, and 204.7 mA h g−1 at 0.05, 0.1, 0.5, 1.0, 2.0, and 5.0 C, respectively. It can maintain a high and reversible capacity of 830 mA h g−1 at 1.0 C for 750 cycles. The uniform distribution of the rGO@S nanocomposite in the Li10GeP2S12‐AB matrix generates uniform volume changes during lithiation/delithiation, significantly reducing the stress/strain, thus extending the cycle life. Minimization of the stress/strain of solid cells is the key for a long cycle life of all‐solid‐state Li–S batteries.
From Binary to Ternary: Improving the External Quantum Efficiency of Small‐Molecule Acceptor‐Based Polymer Solar Cells with a Minute Amount of Fullerene Sensitization
Authors: Chen Yu , Qin Yunpeng , Wu Yang , Li Cheng , Yao Huifeng , Liang Ningning , Wang Xiaochen , Li Weiwei , Ma Wei , Hou Jianhui
Published: May 2017

Ternary blend is proved to be a potential contender for achieving high efficiency in organic photovoltaics, which can apparently strengthen the absorption of active layer so as to better harvest light irradiation. Much of the previous work in ternary polymer solar cells focuses on broadening the absorption spectrum; however, a new insight is brought to study the third component, which in tiny amounts influents the small‐molecule acceptor‐based device performance. Without contributing to complementing the absorption, a minute amount of fullerene derivative, Bis‐PC70BM, can effectively play an impressive role as sensitizer in enhancing the external quantum efficiency of the host binary blend, especially for polymeric donor. Detailed investigations reveal that the minute addition of Bis‐PC70BM can realize morphology modification as well as facilitate electron transfer from polymeric donor to small molecule acceptor via cascade energy level modulation, and therefore lead to an improvement in device efficiency.
Modeling and process simulation of hollow fiber membrane reactor systems for propane dehydrogenation
Authors: Choi Seung‐Won , Sholl David S. , Nair Sankar , Moore Jason S. , Liu Yujun , Dixit Ravindra S. , Pendergast John G.
Published: May 2017

We report a detailed modeling analysis of membrane reactor systems for propane dehydrogenation (PDH), by integrating a two‐dimensional (2‐D) nonisothermal model of a packed bed membrane reactor (PBMR) with ASPEN process simulations for the overall PDH plant including downstream separations processes. PBMRs based on ceramic hollow fiber membranes—with catalyst placement on the shell side—are found to be a viable route, whereas conventional tubular membranes are prohibitively expensive. The overall impact of the PBMR on the PDH plant (e.g., required dimensions, catalyst amount, overall energy use in reaction and downstream separation) is determined. Large savings in overall energy use and catalyst amounts can be achieved with an appropriate configuration of PBMR stages and optimal sweep/feed ratio. Overall, this work determines a viable design of a membrane reactor‐based PDH plant and shows the potential for miniaturized hollow‐fiber membrane reactors to achieve substantial savings. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 63: 4519–4531, 2017
A cobalt metal‐organic framework with small pore size for adsorptive separation of CO2 over N2 and CH4
Authors: Shan Bohan , Yu Jiuhao , Armstrong Mitchell R. , Wang Dingke , Mu Bin , Cheng Zhenfei , Liu Jichang
Published: May 2017

In this study, a new cobalt‐based metal‐organic framework (MOF), [
(μ3‐OH)2(ipa)5(C3O2)(DMF)2] (CoIPA) was synthesized. The crystal structure analysis shows that CoIPA is constructed by Co6(μ3‐OH)2 units linked by isophthalic acid forming a sxb topology and it possesses a small pore size of about 4 Å. The new MOF has been characterized using multiple experimental methods. Monte Carlo and Molecular Dynamic simulations were employed to investigate adsorption equilibrium and kinetics in terms of capacity and diffusivity of CO2, N2, and CH4 on CoIPA. The gas adsorption isotherms collected experimentally were used to verify the simulation results. The activated CoIPA sample exhibits great gas separation ability at ambient conditions for CO2/N2 and CO2/CH4 with selectivity of around 61.4 and 11.7, respectively. The calculated self‐diffusion coefficients show a strong direction dependent diffusion behavior of target molecules. This high adsorption selectivity for both CO2/N2 and CO2/CH4 makes CoIPA a potential candidate for adsorptive CO2 separation. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 63: 4532–4540, 2017
Associations between safety climate and safety management practices in the construction industry
Authors: Marín Luz S. , Lipscomb Hester , Cifuentes Manuel , Punnett Laura
Published: May 2017

Background

Safety climate, a group‐level measure of workers’ perceptions regarding management's safety priorities, has been suggested as a key predictor of safety outcomes. However, its relationship with actual injury rates is inconsistent. We posit that safety climate may instead be a parallel outcome of workplace safety practices, rather than a determinant of workers’ safety behaviors or outcomes.

Methods

Using a sample of 25 commercial construction companies in Colombia, selected by injury rate stratum (high, medium, low), we examined the relationship between workers’ safety climate perceptions and safety management practices (SMPs) reported by safety officers.

Results

Workers’ perceptions of safety climate were independent of their own company's implementation of SMPs, as measured here, and its injury rates. However, injury rates were negatively related to the implementation of SMPs.

Conclusions

Safety management practices may be more important than workers’ perceptions of safety climate as direct predictors of injury rates.
Posterior interosseous nerve syndrome after pneumatic hammer use: An uncommon condition
Authors: Nunes Bernardo , Serdoura Francisco , Vital Luísa , Seara Manuel , Pinto Rui
Published: May 2017

This case report presents a 27 year‐old manual worker with right wrist extension deficit after pneumatic hammer handling. MRI and electromyographic studies revealed partial compromise of the posterior interosseous nerve (PIN) proximal to the branch for the extensor digitorum communis. The patient enrolled a 6‐week rehabilitation period and recovered without remaing symptoms. PIN syndrome has mostly been associated with compressive neuropathies of the upper limb, but has seldom been reported in labor contexts. This case exemplifies an unusual presentation of PIN compression without a definite imaging diagnosis, where clinical presentation and electrodiagnostic studies are paramount for an accurate approach and understanding of the underlying condition.
A Highly Stereoselective Synthesis of Tetrahydrofurans
Authors: Appun Johannes , Boomhoff Michael , Hoffmeyer Patrick , Kallweit Isa , Pahl Maik , Belder Detlev , Schneider Christoph
Published: May 2017

The development of a direct and highly stereoselective synthesis of 2,3,5‐substituted tetrahydrofurans has been accomplished through a combination of batch‐ and microchip‐MS‐experiments. This sequential transformation comprises a Lewis acid‐mediated reaction of bis(silyl) dienediolate 1 and a broad range of aldehydes, furnishing products with three new σ‐bonds and three stereogenic centers in a one‐pot process with typically good yields and excellent stereoselectivity. Key steps which have been elucidated primarily with microchip‐MS‐experiments include a vinylogous aldol reaction and a Prins‐type cyclization. Furthermore, a titanium BINOL complex is a powerful chiral catalyst for this process. The products were further converted into bi‐ and tricylic products by carbonyl–ene reactions, proceeding with excellent yields and diastereoselectivity.
Reversible Stabilization of Vesicles: Redox‐Responsive Polymer Nanocontainers for Intracellular Delivery
Authors: de Vries Wilke C. , Grill David , Tesch Matthias , Ricker Andrea , Nüsse Harald , Klingauf Jürgen , Studer Armido , Gerke Volker , Ravoo Bart Jan
Published: May 2017

We present the self‐assembly of redox‐responsive polymer nanocontainers comprising a cyclodextrin vesicle core and a thin reductively cleavable polymer shell anchored via host–guest recognition on the vesicle surface. The nanocontainers are of uniform size, show high stability, and selectively respond to a mild reductive trigger as revealed by dynamic light scattering, transmission electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, a quantitative thiol assay, and fluorescence spectroscopy. Live cell imaging experiments demonstrate a specific redox‐responsive release and cytoplasmic delivery of encapsulated hydrophilic payloads, such as the pH‐probe pyranine, and the fungal toxin phalloidin. Our results show the high potential of these stimulus‐responsive nanocontainers for cell biological applications requiring a controlled delivery.
Chemically Controlled Spatiotemporal Oscillations of Colloidal Assemblies
Authors: Altemose Alicia , Sánchez‐Farrán María Antonieta , Duan Wentao , Schulz Steve , Borhan Ali , Crespi Vincent H. , Sen Ayusman
Published: May 2017

We report an autonomous oscillatory micromotor system in which active colloidal particles form clusters, the size of which changes periodically. The system consists of an aqueous suspension of silver orthophosphate microparticles under UV illumination, in the presence of varying concentrations of hydrogen peroxide. The colloid particles first attract each other to form clusters. After a short delay, these clusters abruptly disperse and oscillation begins, alternating between clustering and dispersion of particles. After a cluster oscillation initiates, the oscillatory wave propagates to nearby clusters and eventually all the clusters oscillate in phase‐shifted synchrony. The oscillatory behavior is governed by an electrolytic self‐diffusiophoretic mechanism which involves alternating electric fields generated by the competing reduction and oxidation of silver. The oscillation frequency is tuned by changing the concentration of hydrogen peroxide. The addition of inert silica particles to the system results in hierarchical sorting and packing of clusters. Densely packed Ag3PO4 particles form a non‐oscillating core with an oscillating shell composed largely of silica microparticles.
Substituent Effects in Parallel‐Displaced π–π Stacking Interactions: Distance Matters
Authors: Riwar Leslie‐Joana , Trapp Nils , Kuhn Bernd , Diederich François
Published: May 2017

Host–guest systems with Rebek imide type receptors and a 2,6‐di(isobutyramido)pyridine ligand were employed to investigate substituent effects in parallel‐displaced π–π stacking interactions. Changing the intermolecular distance between the para substituent on the aromatic platform of the receptor and the pyridine ring of the guest results in a strongly different substituent effect. With a short ethyne‐1,2‐diyl spacer between the Rebek imide and the aromatic platform, partial overlap of substituent and guest stabilizes the π–π stacking interactions independent of the electronic nature of the substituent (Wheeler–Houk model). When the substituent is shifted further away by using a buta‐1,3‐diyne‐1,4‐diyl spacer, direct, through‐space interactions between substituent and guest are prevented. A linear correlation between logKa (Ka=association constant) and the Hammett substituent constant σpara is observed, confirming predictions by the Hunter–Sanders model experimentally.
Carboxylate ion dependency in the Cu(II) catalysed asymmetric Henry reaction: Structural characterisation of a tridentate Schiff base complex containing a coordinated carboxylic acid
Authors: Akıncı Arzu , Celepci Duygu Barut , Karadeniz Leman , Korkmaz Neslihan , Aygün Muhittin , Astley Stephen T.
Published: May 2017

Six tridentate Schiff base ligands containing tertiary butyl or benzyl substituents were prepared from chiral amino alcohols and salicylaldehyde derivatives. The ligands were employed as catalysts for the Cu(II) catalysed asymmetric Henry reaction. It was discovered that when different carboxylate salts were used instead of copper acetate as the Cu(II) salt, significant changes in the enantioselectivity of the reactions were observed. Addition of Cu(OAc)2 to the ligand prepared from salicylaldehyde and α,α‐diphenyl‐tert‐leucinol resulted in the formation of dark green crystals. X‐ray structural analysis of these crystals showed that a square planar monomeric complex had been formed rather than the expected dimer. In the structure, the copper(II) centre is bonded to the tridentate ONO ligand and an acetate ion. There is a strong hydrogen bond between the protonated alcoholic oxygen of the Schiff base ligand and the uncoordinated acetate oxygen atom. These results, taken together, indicate that the carboxylate anion may be an important part of the active intermediate when this type of copper complex is used as a catalyst in the asymmetric Henry reaction.
Sulfonic acid supported on magnetic nanoparticle as an eco‐friendly, durable and robust catalyst for the synthesis of β‐amino carbonyl compounds through solvent free Mannich reaction
Authors: Kabiri Esfahani Farhad , Zareyee Daryoush , Shokuhi Rad Ali , Taher‐Bahrami Sima
Published: May 2017

A simple, efficient and environmentally benign solid acid catalyst was prepared by anchoring a propyl sulfonic acid on the surface of silica‐coated magnetic nanoparticles by low cost precursors. The catalyst has been then engaged in the efficient β‐amino carbonyl compounds production via three component Mannich reaction under solvent free reaction condition at room temperature. After the completing the reaction, the catalyst was readily separated by external magnet and reused for 10 successive rounds of reaction, without any significant loss in catalytic efficiency. The solid acidic system presented reusable strategy for the efficient synthesis of β‐amino carbonyl compounds, simplicity in operation, and green aspects by avoiding toxic conventional catalysts under solvent‐free condition.
Evaluation on H2O2‐aided ultrasonic pretreatment for cell disruption of Chlorella pyrenoidosa
Authors: Duan Zhipeng , Tan Xiao , Dai Kaiwen , Gu Huihui , Yang Hanpei
Published: May 2017

In this work, Chlorella pyrenoidosa was chosen as model microalgae, and several pretreatments, including hydroxyl‐peroxide‐aided ultrasonic pretreatments and mono‐ultrasonication (US), were used to rupture the microalgal cells for extracting cellular inclusion. The disruption efficiency and the energy consumption of each technique were estimated through measuring the amount of released protein from cells and the microscopic images after pretreatment. Results showed that the combined pretreatments obtained a much higher lysis efficiency than did the US (over twofold). However, the concentration of H2O2 used (ranging from 0.1 to 5 mM) failed to influence the lysis efficiency significantly (P < 0.05). Additionally, the acoustic energy efficiency was increased with the initial cell concentration treated, but the coefficient of utilization of algal biomass was decreased significantly. Therefore, an ideal initial cell concentration (13.4 × 107 cells/mL) was gained in terms of the higher coefficient of utilization of algal biomass. This research suggested that a synergistic technique could be an effective pretreatment for microalgal cell disruption and downstream comprehensive utilization. © 2017 Curtin University of Technology and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Hydrophobic associated copolymer as a wide temperature range synthetic cement retarder and its effect on cement hydration
Authors: Xia Xiujian , Guo Jintang , Chen Di , Feng Yakai , Yu Yongjin , Jin Jianzhou , Liu Shuoqiong
Published: May 2017

Hexadecyldimethylpropylmethacrylamide ammonium bromide was well prepared, allowed to copolymerize with other functional monomers to develop a hydrophobic associated polymer (PIADH) as a wide temperature range cement retarder. The synthetic copolymer was testified by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy,1H‐nuclear magnetic resonance, thermo gravimetric analysis, and differential scanning calorimetry. Its temperature induced adaptability was verified via fluorescence probe and NaOH titration techniques, indicating that the retarding groups were increasing at elevated temperature. The applied performance of PIADH modified cement slurries was also evaluated. The results manifested that PIADH not only had excellent retarding property, but also was insensitive to its concentration and temperature variations. Meanwhile, it exhibited less impact on the compressive strength of set cement in large temperature difference. Besides, the inclusion of PIADH improved the microstructure of hardened cement, which was conducive to its mechanical property. The effect of PIADH on cement hydration was also investigated by the isothermal heat flow calorimetry and X‐ray diffraction, showing that the retardation of PIADH was achieved through prolonging the induction period and inhibiting the nucleation of portlandite and ettringite crystals. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci.2017,134, 45242.
Facile Construction of Quinoline‐2‐carboxylate Esters through Aerobic Oxidation of Alkyl 4‐Anilinocrotonates Induced by a Radical Cation Salt
Authors: Jia Xiaodong , Li Pengfei , Shao Yu , Yuan Yu , Hou Wentao , Liu Xiaofei , Zhang Xuewen , Ji Honghe
Published: May 2017

A facile construction of quinoline‐2‐carboxylate esters through an aerobic oxidation of alkyl 4‐anilinocrotonates is described. In the presence of dioxygen, sp3 C−H bonds in 4‐anilinocrotonates can easily be oxidized by using a catalytic amount of a radical cation salt, providing a radical intermediate. After further oxidation and domino cyclization, the desired quinoline derivatives were afforded in high yields. This reaction provides a new way to construct the pharmaceutically relevant quinoline skeleton, avoiding harsh reaction conditions and tedious starting material synthesis.
Fast and parallel determination of PCB 77 and PCB 180 in plasma using ultra performance liquid chromatography with diode array detection: A pharmacokinetic study in Swiss albino mouse
Authors: Ramanujam N. , Sivaselvakumar M. , Ramalingam S.
Published: May 2017

A simple, sensitive and reproducible ultra‐performance liquid chromatography (UPLC) method has been developed and validated for simultaneous estimation of polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) 77 and PCB 180 in mouse plasma. The sample preparation was performed by simple liquid–liquid extraction technique. The analytes were chromatographed on a Waters Acquity H class UPLC system using isocratic mobile phase conditions at a flow rate of 0.3 mL/min and Acquity UPLC BEH shield RP18 column maintained at 35°C. Quantification was performed on a photodiode array detector set at 215 nm and PCB 101 was used as internal standard (IS). PCB 77, PCB 180, and IS retention times were 2.6, 4.7 and 2.8 min, respectively, and the total run time was 6 min. The method was validated for specificity, selectivity, recovery, linearity, accuracy, precision and sample stability. The calibration curve was linear over the concentration range 10–3000 ng/mL for PCB 77 and PCB 180. Intra‐ and inter‐day precisions for PCBs 77 and 180 were found to be good with CV <4.64%, and the accuracy ranged from 98.90 to 102.33% in mouse plasma. The validated UPLC method was successfully applied to the pharmacokinetic study of PCBs 77 and 180 in mouse plasma.
Development and validation of a sensitive UHPLC–MS/MS method for quantitative analysis of farrerol in rat plasma: Application to pharmacokinetic and bioavailability studies
Authors: Piao Li , Zang Mingcui , Gu Yue , Liu Baohua
Published: May 2017

Farrerol is a 2,3‐dihydro‐flavonoid isolated from rhododendron. In this study, a sensitive and selective ultra‐high performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC–MS/MS) method was developed for the determination of farrerol in rat plasma. Liquid–liquid extraction by ethyl ether was used for sample preparation. Chromatographic separation was achieved on an Agilent UHPLC XDB‐C18 column (2.1 × 100 mm, 1.8 μm) with water and methanol (30:70, v/v) as the mobile phase. An electrospray source was applied and operated in negative ion mode; selection reaction monitoring was used for quantification using target fragment ions m/z 299 → 179 for farrerol and m/z 267 → 252 for internal standard. Calibration plots were linear in the range of 2.88–1440 ng/mL for farrerol in rat plasma. Intra‐ and inter‐day precisions were <11.6%, and the accuracy ranged from −13.9 to 11.9%. The UHPLC–MS/MS method was successfully applied in pharmacokinetics and bioavailability studies of farrerol in rats.
Sustainable Retailing – Influencing Consumer Behaviour on Food Waste
Authors: Young C. William , Russell Sally V. , Robinson Cheryl A. , Chintakayala Phani Kumar
Published: May 2017

The aim of this research was to examine the influence of a UK national retailer on its customers' food waste behaviour. Using six communication channels (in‐store magazine, e‐newsletter, Facebook site, product stickers and in‐store demonstrations), Asda presented standard food waste reduction messages to its customers during two time limited periods in 2014 and 2015. Six national surveys over 21 months tracked customers' self‐reported food waste. Our results showed that the combined communication channels and repeated messages over time had a significant effect on reducing food waste of customers. Surprisingly, customers who said they did not recall seeing the messages also reduced their food waste, showing the wider influence of interventions. Those who saw a food waste reduction message saved an estimated £81 annually from reducing food waste. The main conclusion of this paper is that retailers can influence the pro‐environmental behaviour of customers using conventional communication channels; however, repeat messages are needed in order to have a long‐term impact. © 2017 The Authors. Business Strategy and the Environment published by ERP Environment and John Wiley & Sons Ltd
Fibrillar collagen genes are not coordinately upregulated with TGF β1 expression in finasteride‐treated prostate
Authors: Delella Flávia Karina , de Almeida Fernanda Losi Alves , Nunes Helga Caputo , Rinaldi Jaqueline Carvalho , Felisbino Sérgio Luis
Published: May 2017

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is the most common cause of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) in older men. In this regard, recent studies have attempted to define the relationships between prostatic fibrosis, LUTS, and increased expression of transforming growth factor β1 (TGF β1) in BHP. Therapeutic approaches for BPH such as 5‐α‐reductase inhibitors and alpha‐adrenergic blocking agents increase TGF β1 expression in the prostatic tissue. Here, we investigated the effects of the 5‐α‐reductase inhibitor—finasteride—on rat ventral prostate tissue, especially with regard to the tissue distribution and gene expression of fibrillar collagens. Adult Wistar rats (n = 15) were treated with finasteride (25 mg/kg/day) by subcutaneous injection for 7 and 30 days. Age‐matched, vehicle‐treated (n = 15) adult Wistar rats were used as control. Finasteride treatment reduced prostate size and increased the area of types I and III collagen fibers in the prostatic stroma. As expected, TGF β1 mRNA expression was upregulated by finasteride treatment. However, COL1A1 and COL3A1 mRNA expressions decreased after both 7 and 30 days of finasteride treatment, suggesting that finasteride treatment promotes prostate parenchyma and stroma changes, which lead to the observed types I and III collagen remodeling without de novo collagen synthesis. The upregulation of TGF β1 mRNA and protein associated with the 5‐α‐reductase inhibitor is more closely related to epithelial and stromal cell death pathways than to prostatic fibrosis.