Search results for ""royal society of chemistry""

Liquid salt innovations can offer significant benefits for improving energy efficiency and reducing the environmental impact of the production of many materials and of processing technologies. Technological advancement relies heavily on a sound understanding of the underlying science of the huge number of liquid salts and their varying properties. This Faraday Discussion aims to bring together scientists and engineers from academia and industry to discuss and debate the state of the art in liquid salts to develop a better understanding of their fundamental properties and how their application can help in addressing some of the most important current global challenges. Topics covered include energy efficiency in process chemistry and engineering, improvements in energy conversion and storage and molten salt based reactors in nuclear energy processes.

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Anisotropy at the nanoscale is a critical factor in the mechanical, optical, electronic, and magnetic properties of nanoparticles. Many unusual properties of colloidal materials arise due to heterogeneous spatial confinement of electrons, plasmons and electric fields around the particles. As the field of nanoparticle synthesis and application matures, there is an increasing need for the design of novel and more complex nanosized objects. In particular, the incorporation of multiple functionalities, the directionality of such functions, and the incorporation of lower or higher dimensional order have great relevance and interest for biomolecule detection, diagnosis and therapeutic medical applications. This Faraday Discussion brings together chemists, physicists, theoreticians, engineers, and biomedical researchers to discuss the use of anisotropy as a tool to design, organize and provide special functions to nanoparticles. It explores the synthesis, formation mechanisms and novel characterization tools of anisotropic nanoparticles; the preparation and properties of particles with two or multiple domains; and biomedical applications.

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One of the key challenges in biophysics and chemical biology is gaining an understanding of the underlying physico-chemical basis of the highly complex structure and properties of biomembranes. It used to be thought that the lipid component played a mainly passive role, simply acting as a self-assembled bilayer matrix within which the active protein components functioned. However, it has now become clear that there is a intimate two-way interplay between the lipid and the protein components in determining membrane structure, organization and dynamics, and that lipids play many active roles in biological function. Concepts such as lateral segregation and domain formation, lateral pressure, curvature and curvature elasticity have attracted enormous interest in recent years, although their validity when applied to real biomembranes remains unclear or even obscure. This Faraday Discussion considered recent developments in the study of biomembrane structure, ordering and dynamics, with particular emphasis on the roles of lipids in these phenomena. As well as discussing new experimental and theoretical findings and novel methodologies, the meeting focused on exploring the relevance of concepts from amphiphile self-assembly and soft matter physics to understanding biomembranes.

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The hydration of ions and the interactions of ions with (bio)molecules play a key role in many natural and technological processes. These effects are usually framed in terms of the lyotropic or Hofmeister series which traditionally orders cations and anions according to their ability to salt-out proteins. Since its formulation more than one hundred years ago, the lyotropic series has been invoked in myriad effects including the crystallization of proteins, enzyme activities, the swelling of tissues, salt solubilities, ion exchange, surface tension of electrolytes, and bubble coalescence. Although it is now clear that the Hofmeister series is intimately connected with ion hydration in homogeneous and heterogeneous environments and with ion pairing, the molecular origin of these effects has been poorly understood. Biochemists and physical chemists have been typically using the term Hofmeister series to put a label on ion specific behaviour in various environments, rather than to reach a molecular level understanding and, consequently, an ability to predict a particular effect of a specific salt ion. This meeting (which took place at Queen's College Oxford in September 2012) aimed to respond to the emerging situation in which science has matured enough to be able to provide answers about the molecular nature of ion specific effects. It explored the most important issues in understanding the chemistry and biological effects of ions, with state of the art work being presented using advanced experimental and computational methods. Investigation of ion specific effects is truly interdisciplinary since it requires chemists, biochemists, and biophysicists to collaborate with each other, combining experimental and computational approaches. We invited researchers in these fields to take part in the Discussion and join the chosen speakers who are among the key scientists behind the recent renaissance of interest in ion specific effects. Themes covered included: Solvation of ions in the aqueous bulk and at interfaces Ion-ion interactions in water Interactions between ions and biomolecules (proteins, nucleic acids, membranes, etc.) in water. Specific Hofmeister effects of ions and osmolytes on protein association, precipitation, folding/unfolding, and activity

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Gas and liquid-phase unimolecular reactions are central to the complex chemistry of a large number of processes, from those occurring in the Earth’s atmosphere to those involved in transportation, power and manufacturing. Improving our understanding of the fundamental chemistry of these processes is critical to solving contemporary challenges such as climate change, as well as improving industrial efficiency. One hundred years have passed since the proposal of the Lindemann mechanism in 1922, and the current state of this field is as exciting and important as ever. The unique format of the Faraday Discussions allows for in-depth discussions across the full scope of the field, from new perspectives in kinetics and dynamics to application to current challenges such as atmospheric pollution, alternative fuels and industrial processes. This volume brings together global leaders to examine the current state of unimolecular reaction experiments as well as theory and applications to current challenges. In this volume the topics covered are organised into the following themes: Collisional energy transfer The reaction step The Master Equation Impact of Lindemann and related theories

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In recent years, mechanochemistry has become a mainstream technique for chemical synthesis, spanning supramolecular materials, inorganic (main group, coordination complexes, MOFs) and organic synthesis, pharmaceutical screening, materials development, sustainable chemistry and reaction discovery, as well as its more traditional applications in alloying etc. The current time is also exciting in terms of advances in the fundamental understanding of kinetics and some of the first reaction models specific to mechanochemistry are being discovered. Mechanochemistry is far broader than synthesis alone. It is also fundamental to understanding shear processes at the molecular level and is being harnessed to accomplish new chemistry through the controlled mechanical scission of polymers. As such, mechanochemistry brings many disciplines together in an effort to provide greater understanding of fundamental molecular processes for large scale, sustainable manufacturing as well as new science. This Faraday Discussion volume brings together internationally-leading researchers to explore and exchange ideas on the physical and chemical principles underlying mechanochemical phenomena. In this volume the topics covered are organised into the following themes: Advances in synthesis Shear processes and polymer mechanochemistry Kinetics and basic understanding Scale up and industrial implementation

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Nanoelectrochemistry is not only important for achieving ultra-sensitive applications in fields ranging from energy to bioanalysis, but also contributes to more fundamental understanding of processes on this scale. While electrochemical processes occur within confined geometries at the nanometre scale, electrochemistry endows us with an ever-increasing ability to measure and understand with unprecedented precision. This Faraday Discussions volume addresses the challenges in both fundamental and applied nanoelectrochemistry, where new concepts and new knowledge play key roles. This volume also encourages cross-disciplinary interactions for electrochemistry with biophysics, nanofabrication, informatics, electronics and beyond. It discusses new concepts and knowledge within the field of nanoelectrochemistry, including new methods and novel applications. These new methods for achieving highly precise electrochemical measurements at nanoscale make it possible to provide fundamental electrochemical techniques to integrate with advanced spectroscopy and informatics technology to achieve real-life applications. This Faraday Discussions volume will potentially both revolutionise understanding in nanoelectrochemistry and guide future developments in this exciting research area. It covers the following topics: Emerging electrochemical methods at the nanointerface State of the art energy conversion at the nanointerface Electrochemical data mining: from information to knowledge Advanced nanoelectrochemistry implementation: from concept to application

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The area of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) and related materials is arguably one of the hottest interdisciplinary subjects spanning chemistry, materials science, physics and engineering. A primary reason for this major interest is the possibility of tuning the chemical and structural flexibility of these materials using an enormous variety of combinations of metal ions, bridging ligands, counter-ions and formation of hybrids and composites. Given the recent developments in this area, including the emergence of MOFs whose applications and functional properties has led to their commercialisation, the unique format of the Faraday Discussions allows for in-depth discussions across the full scope of this interdisciplinary field, from pioneering synthesis and design to commercial viability in the marketplace. This volume brings together internationally leading researchers interested in the interdisciplinary field of MOFs to explore and exchange ideas on recent developments and future possibilities. In this volume the topics covered are organised into the following themes: Fundamental studies and design of MOFs Applications of MOFs Theory and modelling of MOFs Commercialisation of MOFs

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Photo-induced processes are of tremendous importance in the natural world and across science. Examples include ultrafast process in vision, energy-release by water-splitting in photosynthesis, chemical reactions in the atmosphere, photocatalysis, and technologies such as petahertz electronics, photovoltaics, and light-emitting diodes. Due to the intrinsic complexity of photo-induced processes, they remain the least understood type of physical and chemical processes. Strong and weak laser induced electron and nuclear dynamics on ultrafast time-scales, nonadiabatic dynamics, quantum effects and conical intersections are known to be important, but the full picture is still being unveiled and a cohesive understanding assembled. New experimental techniques, capable of monitoring photo-induced processes with unprecedented temporal and spatial resolution across the entire reaction path, play a key role in this. These developments are driven by the appearance of free-electron lasers, such as the XFEL in Europe, the LCLS (and soon LCLS-II) in the USA, SACLA in Japan, PAL in Korea and Swiss-FEL in Switzerland, new sources of pulsed electrons, table-top based attosecond laser sources, and advanced detection techniques. A large and important contribution is made by advances in theory and computational modelling, in particular in terms of (nonadiabatic) quantum dynamics simulations and theoretical models that improve the interpretation and analysis of experiments. In this volume the topics covered include: Time-resolved Diffraction Time-Resolved Ultrafast Spectroscopy Strong-Field Physics Ultrafast X-ray Science

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Very high levels of air pollution have been observed in many cities across the world, in both developing and developed economies, with varying degrees of regularity. Predicting urban air quality demands detailed knowledge of both the physical properties of the urban atmosphere and pollutants within it, and the chemical reactions of those pollutants, which have a major impact on measured levels. For emitted pollutants, concentrations are likely to be reduced proportionately with reductions in emissions, but in the case of secondary pollutants formed within the atmosphere, the relationship between precursor emissions and reaction products is often strongly non-linear. This discussion aims to improve understanding of the underlying processes responsible, which is essential for the development of high quality numerical models of urban air pollutants, which are required for the testing of mitigation strategies prior to implementation. The following topics are covered within this volume: Current status and trends in air quality in megacities Physico-chemical processes in the urban atmosphere (neighbourhood scale) Physico-chemical processes in the urban atmosphere (city scale) Effects, mitigation and policy

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It is vital to improve our understanding of how macromolecules such as peptides interact with membranes. These processes are involved in protein folding, cell signalling, biogenesis, morphogenesis, disease and medical therapy. Next-generation synthetic biology goals will require a clearer understanding of how to control reticulated membrane structures in order to fabricate the supramolecular structures necessary for advanced synthesis and behaviour. This volume will address several related aspects of peptide interactions with membranes. It will consider model theoretical and experimental systems in order to define the ‘reaction space’ that is possible and where appropriate with relevance to fundamental questions in cell biology, including how peptides and proteins behave within biological membranes. The topics covered include: Theoretical and experimental comparisons of simple peptide-membrane systems Theoretical and experimental studies of complex peptide-membrane systems Behaviour and interactions of proteins and peptides with and within membranes Peptide-membrane interactions and biotechnology

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Over the last 10 years, the field of plasmonic research has emerged as an extremely promising technology with several main fields of application: information technologies, energy, high-density data storage, photovoltaics, chemistry, biology, medicine and security. The main focus up to a few years ago was on the ability of plasmonic nanostructures to generate localized regions of highly concentrated electromagnetic fields, however more recently it has also been realized that the electron part of plasmonic excitations can also be exploited in the physical and chemical sciences. Fascinating proof-of-concept applications have over the last three years been demonstrated in areas such as surface-enhanced catalysis (water splitting), photodetectors without bandgaps (Schottky junctions), and nanoscale control over chemical reactions. These applications as well as the most recent breakthroughs and key challenges in this multidisciplinary and dynamic field are the focus of this Faraday Discussion, offering the perspectives of physicists, chemists and ab-initio theoreticians. In this volume the topics covered include: Dynamics of hot electron generation in metallic nanostructures Theory of hot electrons New materials for hot electron generation Applications in catalysis, photochemistry, and photodetection

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The prediction of crystal structures from first principles has been one of the grand challenges for computational methods in chemistry and materials science. The goal of being able to reliably predict crystal structures at an atomistic level of detail, given only the chemical composition as input, presents several challenges. A solution to the crystal structure prediction challenge requires advances in several areas of computational chemistry. Theoretical chemists have naturally been drawn to these challenges from an academic perspective, while the development of methods for solving the problem of crystal structure prediction has also been motivated by a growing range of applications where reliable structure prediction is sought and could guide experimentation. Crystal structure predictions have been used to study organic molecules such as polymorphism of pharmaceutical molecules, where changes in crystal form can lead to changes in important physical and chemical properties, which must be strictly controlled in a pharmaceutical product, or inorganic materials where the discovery and computational design of new materials with targeted properties, such as porosity, electronic or mechanical properties are necessary. However, the communities addressing methods and applications in organic and inorganic crystal structure prediction have largely remained separate, due to the different approaches that have been used in these two areas. The community as a whole will benefit from the cross-fertilisation of ideas and methods in this volume, as well as from bringing theoreticians together with interested experimentalists. The volume will appeal to researchers from computational chemistry, informatics, physics (applying solid state electronic structure methods) and materials science in the development of methods. Applications of the methods also cover several fields, including crystallography, crystal engineering, mineralogy and pharmaceutical materials. This volume gathers key researchers representing the full scientific scope of the topic, including the developers of methods and software, those developing the application of the methods and interested experimentalists who may benefit from advances in predictive computational methods. In this volume the topics covered include: Structure searching methods Crystal structure evaluation: calculating relative stabilities and other criteria Applications of crystal structure prediction – organic molecular structures Applications of crystal structure prediction – inorganic and network structures

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This volume brings together the work of both theoreticians and experimentalists on the synthesis of nanoparticles and their use in catalytic reactions. Heterogeneous catalysis is a core area of contemporary physical chemistry posing major fundamental and conceptual challenges, and nanoparticles are ubiquitous in many heterogeneous catalysts, therefore it is now opportune to focus a Faraday Discussion on key aspects of their synthesis, characterisation and use. This Faraday Discussion will explore the modern methods being used to design, synthesise and characterize nanoparticles and how these bridge across the disciplines of physical science and chemical engineering. The core aim of this discussion meeting is to develop a fundamental understanding of these crucial aspects of catalytic science, especially relating to nanoparticle synthesis and use in catalytic reactions, knowledge of which is essential for the design of new catalysts.

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Recent advances in nanofabrication and subwavelength optical characterisation have led to significant new advances in plasmonics. In addition to traditional top-down nanofabrication techniques, chemical-based fabrication has emerged as an inexpensive and viable alternative with electrochemical and self-organisation methods for fabrication of plasmonic nanoparticles and extended plasmonic structures. This volume aims to highlight the most recent breakthroughs in this multidisciplinary field and hear from the different perspectives of physicists, chemists and biologists. It connects the various subdisciplines in the field and defines the most challenging problems for the future. This volume is focused on areas where progress is expected to have a most significant impact on a whole area of nanoplasmonics and on commercial exploitation. In this volume the topics covered include: Plasmonic nanoparticles and metamaterials with designed optical properties Surface plasmon enhanced spectroscopies Quantum plasmonics, gain and spasers Biosensing and biomedical applications of plasmonics

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The development of renewable, low cost, high performance energy technologies is a key scientific challenge for the 21st century. Many of these energy applications involve numerous dynamic energy and mass transfer processes at the length scale of sub-nanometers to micrometers that require the collaborative participation of various functional material components. To create efficient, stable and reproducible energy systems, effective integration of material components from atomic, molecular, nano to meso-scale is crucial. However, the most challenging aspect is to integrate the required components together while optimising the performance of each component and even creating new synergetic effects. In the past decade, considerable research attention has been devoted to the fabrication of single-length scale / component materials for energy applications. This title will centre on discussing how individual functional components at different length scale can be effectively integrated into next-generation energy materials. Aimed at today’s experimentalists and theoreticians, chemists, physicists and materials scientists, this book will cross-boundaries and discuss energy-related information.

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The cell can be viewed as a 'collection of protein machines' and understanding these molecular machines requires sophisticated cooperation between cell biologists, geneticists, enzymologists, crystallographers, chemists and physicists. To observe these machines in action, researchers have developed entirely new methodologies for the detection and the nanomanipulation of single molecules. This book, written by expert scientists in the field, analyses how these diverse fields of research interact on a specific example - RNA polymerase. The book concentrates on RNA polymerases because they play a central role among all the other machines operating in the cell and are the target of a wide range of regulatory mechanisms. They have also been the subject of spectacular advances in their structural understanding in recent years, as testified by the attribution of the Nobel prize in chemistry in 2006 to Roger Kornberg. The book focuses on two aspects of the transcription cycle that have been more intensively studied thanks to this increased scientific cooperation - the recognition of the promoter by the enzyme, and the achievement of consecutive translocation steps during elongation of the RNA product. Each of these two topics is introduced by an overview, and is then presented by worldwide experts in the field, taking the viewpoint of their speciality. The overview chapters focus on the mechanism-structure interface and the structure-machine interface while the individual chapters within each section concentrate more specifically on particular processes-kinetic analysis, single-molecule spectroscopy, and termination of transcription, amongst others. Specific attention has been paid to the newcomers in the field, with careful descriptions of new emerging techniques and the constitution of an atlas of three-dimensional pictures of the enzymes involved. For more than thirty years, the study of RNA polymerases has benefited from intense cooperation between the scientific partners involved in the various fields listed above. It is hoped that a collection of essays from outstanding scientists on this subject will catalyse the convergence of scientific efforts in this field, as well as contribute to better teaching at advanced levels in Universities.

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This is the first book on the topic of optoelectronic polymers for researchers who are entering the field, highlighting the remarkable basic science and technological potential of this class of materials.

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An ideal companion for toxicologists and ecologists interested in risk assessment in the environments of ichthyic fauna, particularly those with an interest in the deleterious impact introduced by human activity.

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An in-depth overview of the current state-of-the-art application of multimodal and combined techniques used for imaging applications in chemical biology.

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The implementation of ionic liquids technologies in future biorefineries is challenging. Different approaches can be applied along the entire chain of biomass valorisation to achieve a specific target molecule, from biomass pre-treatment and fractionation processes to extraction, downstream separation and purification methodologies of high value added products and pivot chemicals. This book summarises recent achievements in the use of ionic liquids in biomass processing as an alternative to conventional processes, particularly in the context of green chemistry. It features real-world case studies where high value-added products have been obtained using ionic liquid processing, demonstrating the practical applications of these technologies. The book concludes by assessing the development of further biorefineries with ionic liquids. The book is an important reference for researchers and practising chemists, bringing readers up-to-date with current research in this field.

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The field of nanoscience continues to grow at an impressive rate, with over 10,000 new articles a year contributing to more than half a million citations. Such a vast landscape of material requires careful examination to uncover the most important discoveries. Nanoscience, edited by Professor Paul O’Brien (University of Manchester) and Dr John Thomas (Bangor University), presents a critical and comprehensive assessment of the last twelve months of research and discussion. With contributions from around the globe, this series ensures readers will be well-versed in the latest research and methodologies. Chapters cover a range of topics, including ‘Mesocrystals’, ‘Quantum dot synthesis’, ‘Nano and energy storage’ and ‘Beyond graphene’. Anyone practicing in a nano-allied field, or wishing to enter the nano-world, will benefit from the publication of this comprehensive resource annually.

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Toxicity testing is used to assess the safety or hazards presented by substances such as industrial chemicals, consumer products, and pharmaceuticals. At present, many methods involve laboratory animals. Alternative procedures, some involving human cell-based technologies, are now being developed which reduce, refine, or replace animal usage and minimize the pain and distress caused. These new tests must protect public health and the environment at least as well as currently accepted methods. This book describes the ever-expanding "toolbox" of methods available to assess toxicity. Such techniques often result from our growing understanding of the biochemical and cellular pathways that mediate toxicity mechanisms. This permits evaluations of information generated from several sources to generate a "weight of evidence". By combining in silico, in vitro, and ex vivo methods with technologies that rely on biochemical- and cell-based in vitro assays, toxicologists are developing mechanistically based alternatives to live animal experimentation. This text also explores the complexities associated with adequate validation, and the assessment of test reliability and relevance. It provides an essential reference source for postgraduates, academics and industrialists working in this rapidly changing area.

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Supramolecular chemistry provides a versatile approach for modifying the structure and function of surfaces, including the formation of clusters, monolayers and films. This can be used in a variety of applications from porous surface systems, to modifiers of interface energy and sensor-based systems. Supramolecular Chemistry at Surfaces covers different methods of preparing and studying self-assembled structures at surfaces and interfaces. The book starts with a general introduction concerning the nature of surfaces followed by specific sections discussing different techniques to characterise surface-based supramolecular systems. Each chapter then goes on to address different surface systems including the surface of water; physisorbed layers at interfaces; chemisorbed layers at interfaces; polyelectrolyte systems; thin films; dynamic systems; and patterning. Written by a leading expert in the field, this is the first book to give a multidisciplinary view of the supramolecular aspects of interfaces providing the reader with an objective summary of all the deposition methods and their characterisation. The book will appeal to students and researchers in supramolecular chemistry, nanoscience, polymer chemistry and physics, surface science and materials science.

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The pharmaceutical industry has become increasingly interested in biologics from animal venoms as a potential source for therapeutic agents in recent years, with a particularly emphasis on peptides. To date six drugs derived from venom peptides or proteins have been approved by the FDA, with nine further agents currently being investigated in clinical trials. In addition to these drugs in approved or advanced stages of development, many more peptides and proteins are being studied in varying stages of preclinical development. This unique book provides an up to date and comprehensive account of the potential of peptides and proteins from animal venoms as possible therapeutics. Topics covered include chemistry and structural biology of animal venoms, proteomic and transcriptomic approaches to drug discovery, bioassays, high-throughput screens and target identification, and reptile, scorpion, spider and cone snail venoms as a platform for drug development. Case studies are used to illustrate methods and successes and highlight issues surrounding administration and other important lessons that have been learnt from the development of approved therapeutics based on venoms. The first text to focus on this fascinating area and bridging an important gap, this book provides the reader with essential and current knowledge on this fast-developing area. Venoms to Drugs will find wide readership with researchers working in academia and industry working in all medicinal and pharmaceutical areas.

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Nanomedicines and nanopharmacology is a rapidly developing and evolving field with new techniques and applications under constant development. This book will provide an overview of the chemistry of nanocarrier design and the considerations that need to be made when developing a nanomedicine. Providing an understanding of the relationship of nanocarrier, drug and targetting moieties and physico-chemical properties, this title will provide an accurate and current representation of the field by addressing the promises, prospects and pitfalls of nanomedicine. Covering a wide range of areas in detail, this book will provide an excellent companion for medicinal chemists, pharmacologists and biochemists working in industry or academia.

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Glycopolymers are important for cell signalling, recognition pathways, and their role in the immune system. They are gaining attention for new applications in tissue engineering and drug delivery. Glycopolymer Code discusses the preparation, characterization and applications of glycopolymers providing a complete overview of the topic with examples from the latest research. Specific chapters cover both basic and advanced synthesis techniques to prepare glycopolymers, the analytical techniques used to investigate lectin receptor glycopolymer interactions, the properties and types of lectins that are widely used to understand the multivalent interactions and various applications of synthetic glycopolymers. With contributions from leading researchers in the field, the book is a unique source for graduates and academics new to the subject and already working in the area of glycopolymers.

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Functional organic and organometallic polymers and materials have gained much attention as versatile materials for energy interconversions and optoelectronic/photonic applications, including electrical energy generation in photovoltaic cells and light generation in organic light-emitting diodes, as they offer a low cost, light weight and simple option for device fabrication. Molecular Design and Applications of Photofunctional Polymers and Materials, presents a critical perspective of the current field, with emphasis on fundamental concepts and current applications in optoelectronics, electronics and nanotechnology. The book also covers photochemically degradable polymers, electrochromic and photochromic materials, biosensing and bioimaging materials, and low- and high-refractive index materials. With contributions from leading experts in the field, this timely book will provide a valuable contribution to the community enabling new synthetic methods to be developed to produce new materials with specific functional roles.

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Computational Quantum Chemistry presents computational electronic structure theory as practised in terms of ab initio waveform methods and density functional approaches. Getting a full grasp of the field can often prove difficult, since essential topics fall outside of the scope of conventional chemistry education. This professional reference book provides a comprehensive introduction to the field. Postgraduate students and experienced researchers alike will appreciate Joseph McDouall's engaging writing style. The book is divided into five chapters, each providing a major aspect of the field. Electronic structure methods, the computation of molecular properties, methods for analysing the output from computations and the importance of relativistic effects on molecular properties are also discussed. Links to the websites of widely used software packages are provided so that the reader can gain first hand experience of using the techniques described in the book.

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Many nanomaterials exhibit anti-microbial properties and demand for such materials grows as new applications are found in such areas as medicine, environmental science and specialised coatings. This book documents the most up to date research on the area of nanoparticles showing anti-microbial activity and discusses their preparation and characterisation. Further materials showing potential anti-microbial properties are also discussed. With its user-friendly approach to applications, this book is an excellent reference for practical use in the lab. Its emphasis on material characterisation will benefit both the analytical and materials scientist. Frequent references to the primary literature ensure that the book is a good source of information to newcomers and experienced practitioners alike. Chapters devoted to nanoparticles, microbial impacts on surfaces and molecular biology are essential reading, while chapters on characterisation ensure this book stands out in the field.

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Over the last 150 years, the Public Analyst profession has hidden its light under a bushel, with the notable exception of Fredrick Accum, one of the first Public Analysts who published the names and addresses of food adulterers, this group of chemists has quietly protected the public from food fraud and adulteration. Using their forensic skills to find traces of poison and other deleterious materials in our food and guiding the Courts and legal profession through complex scientific evidence, it has undersold itself to the public. It is time to tell their story with this collection of memoirs from many practising and retired Public Analysts. Their accounts of samples submitted to them, how they analysed them, and the tales that unfolded, make for a fascinating insight into the field. This is a timely publication, as funding for this area continues to fall, to the concern of many not just in the UK but throughout Europe. Yet, whilst food adulteration may not be as rife as it was 150 years ago, food fraud and adulteration is now on a global scale with improved communications, the fear of adulteration is probably larger than ever. This funding position does not sit well alongside levels of public interest that have never been higher in food, science in general, and forensic science. And yet research is still needed to find future strategies to maintain a vital service to protect the public and it is important to raise the profile of the role of the Public Analyst, now more than ever, This book, which is not intended as a text book but as a light read, will achieve this aim while simply telling the stories of a collection of Public Analysts, things they have found in food and other materials and their memoirs and anecdotes. It will appeal to those who watch programmes such as Crime Scene Investigates and anyone with an interest in forensic science and science in general.

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This complete and well-organized overview of chemiluminescence and bioluminescence is divided into two parts. The first covers historical developments and the fundamental principles of these phenomena before going on to review recent advances and instrumentation. The second part deals with the applications in a variety of research fields including life sciences, drug discovery, diagnostics, environment, agrofood, and forensics. The book is suitable not only for researchers currently employing detection techniques in their research activity, but also for those approaching the subject for the first time. Particular emphasis is placed on the use of chemiluminescence and bioluminescence for the development of a variety of (bio)analytical methods, such as flow-assisted methods, enzyme-, antibody- or gene probe-based assays also in multiplexed formats, miniaturized analytical devices, biosensors, BRET and protein complementation assays, whole-cell biosensors, and bioluminescence molecular imaging. Individual chapters are devoted to the most important and rapidly developing fields including: Instrumentation for Chemiluminescence and Bioluminescence; In vivo Molecular Imaging; Biotechnological Improvements of Bioluminescent Systems; Cell-based Bioluminescent Biosensors, and Miniaturized Analytical Devices Based on Chemiluminescence, Bioluminescence and Electrochemiluminescence. The book also includes a comprehensive collection of recent bibliographic references.

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Edited and authored by world experts, this book covers the newest areas of research into cheese manufacture and engineering, as well as the latest developments concerning properties and structure. Information dealing with cheese manufacture includes starter and adjunct cultures, nonstarter lactic acid bacteria, coagulants, novel processing techniques, and ripening. The chapters on cheese properties explain rheology, microscopy, flavours, and other topics. Comparisons of cheese made from milk of various mammals and of artisanal and large-scale cheese manufacturing including vegan cheeses are included. Providing a useful source of facts and information for scientists, cheesemakers, and students, the book covers the ever-expanding field of cheese production, technology, and analysis. Cheesemakers large and small must respond to changing consumer demands and interests. This book informs the knowledge base in cheese chemistry and scientific advances in these areas.

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There has been enormous progress in our understanding of molybdenum and tungsten enzymes and relevant inorganic complexes of molybdenum and tungsten over the past twenty years. This set of three books provides a timely and comprehensive overview of the field and documents the latest research. Building on the first volume that focussed on biochemistry aspects, the second volume in the set focusses on the inorganic complexes that model the structures and reactivity of the active sites of each major group of molybdenum and tungsten enzymes. Special attention is given to synthetic strategies, reaction mechanism and chemical kinetics of these systems. The introductory chapter provides a useful overview and places the topic of the book into a wider context. This text will be a valuable reference to workers both inside and outside the field, including graduate students and young investigators interested in developing new research programs in this area.

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Polymer-clay nanocomposites have flame-retardant, antimicrobial, anticorrosion and self-healing properties, they are biocompatible and environmentally benign. Multiple types of clay minerals may be exfoliated or individually dispersed and then used as natural nanoparticle additives of different size and shape for composite formation. Loading polymers with clays increases their strength, however, it is only recently that such composites were prepared with controlled nanoscale organization allowing for the enhancement of their mechanical properties and functionality. Edited by pioneers in the field, this book will explain the great potential of these materials and will bring together the combined physico-chemical, materials science and biological expertise to introduce the reader to the vibrant field of nanoclay materials. This book will provide an essential text for materials and polymers scientists in industry and academia.

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Research over the past decade has demonstrated that TGx methods of various types can be used to discriminate modes of mutagenesis as a function of dose. TGx can quickly inform safety evaluation regarding potential mechanisms of conventional outcomes and can provide essential dose-response information. This can then be used to ascertain the sequence of key events in a putative mode of action as may apply in quantitative cancer risk assessment. With the increasing complexity of research in mode of action investigations it is important to gain a better understand of approaches to data integration and health risk assessment. Furthermore, it is essential to consider how novel test systems and newer methods and approaches may be used in future to gain a better understanding of mechanisms. Toxicogenomics in Predictive Carcinogenicity describes toxicogenomics methods in predictive carcinogenicity testing, mode of action and safety evaluation, and cancer risk assessment. It illustrates these methods using case studies that have yielded significant new information on compounds and classes of compounds that have proven difficult to evaluate using conventional methods alone. This book additionally covers current and potential toxicogenomic research using stem cells as well as new bioinformatics methods for drug discovery and environmental toxicology. This publication is an indispensable tool for postgraduates, academics and industrialists working in biochemistry, genomics, carcinogenesis, pathology, pharmaceuticals, food technology, bioinformatics, risk assessment and environmental toxicology.

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Green Chemistry seeks to reduce or remove the use and generation of hazardous substances from chemical processes. This selection of titles is drawn from the RSC''s Green Chemistry book series, and presents a wealth of information for anyone wishing to implement a Green Chemistry approach to the synthesis of chemicals and materials.This set contains the following volumes:Eco-Friendly Synthesis of Fine Chemicals (ISBN 9781847559081) 312 pages, 2009Edited by Roberto BalliniThis book is devoted to the preparation of fine chemicals by new emerging approaches in the field of eco-friendly processes and procedures.Aqueous Microwave Assisted Chemistry (ISBN 9781849730389) 240 pages, 2010Edited by Vivek Polshettiwar and Rajender S VarmaProvides a comprehensive overview of the various processes developed using aqueous microwave chemistry, which is an environmentally, friendly green chemistry technique.Enatioselective Homogenous Supported Cataly

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Understanding pollution, its behaviour and impact is becoming increasingly important, as new technologies and legislation continually lower the tolerable levels of pollutants released into the environment. Introduction to Pollution Science draws upon sections of the authors' previous text (Understanding our Environment) and reflects the growing trend of a more sophisticated approach to teaching environmental science at university. This new revised book discusses the basics of environmental pollution drawing upon chemistry, physics and biological sciences. The book, written by leading experts in the field, covers topics including pollution in the atmosphere, the world's waters and soil and land contamination. Subsequent sections discuss methods of investigating the environment, the impact of pollution on human health and ecological systems and institutional mechanisms for pollution management. Each section includes worked examples and questions and is aimed at undergraduates studying environmental science, but will also prove of value to others seeking knowledge of the field.

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Quantum dots are nano-sized particles of semiconducting material, typically chalcogenides or phosphides of metals found across groups II to VI of the periodic table. Their small size causes them to exhibit unique optical and electrical properties which are now finding applications in electronics, optics and in the biological sciences. Synthesis of these materials began in the late 1980’s and this book gives a thorough background to the topic, referencing these early discoveries. Any rapidly-expanding field will contain vast amounts of publications, and this book presents a complete overview of the field, bringing together the most relevant and seminal aspects literature in an informed and succinct manner. The author has been an active participant in the field since its infancy in the mid 1990’s, and presents a unique handbook to the synthesis and application of this unique class of materials. Drawing on both his own experience and referencing the primary literature, Mark Green has prepared. Postgraduates and experienced researchers will benefit from the comprehensive nature of the book, as will manufacturers of quantum dots and those wishing to apply them.

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Encompassing an integrated approach to the various aspects of catalysis, covering heterogeneous, homogeneous, organo-, bio-, and computational catalysis, as well as reaction and reactor engineering on an advanced level, this textbook is ideal for graduate students with diverse backgrounds, including catalysis, engineering, and organic synthesis. The basic principles of the various fields of catalysis are introduced in a concise way, preparing the reader for the more advanced chapters. Organometallic chemistry, surface science, biochemistry, nanoscience, transport phenomena and kinetics, reactor and reaction engineering are presented, spanning from the underlying science to industrial applications. Several important case studies on industrial applications are given. It includes catalyst preparation and characterisation and explores recent developments in the understanding of catalytic mechanisms, exploring advanced techniques such as operando spectroscopy.

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The first book to cover this fast developing field, Masked Mycotoxins in Food will provide a full overview of the issues relating to the toxicology of masked mycotoxins present in food products. Mycotoxins are naturally occurring chemicals produced by moulds that can grow on crops and foodstuffs. Masked mycotoxins are modified mycotoxins, due to this modification many cannot be detected using standard analytical techniques, for example HPLC and ELISA, and further research is needed to understand the health risks and threats from these modified compounds.Masked mycotoxin research is an area of toxicological research that has gained significant interest and momentum in recent years. The aim of this book is to provide a full picture of the topic, from the masked mycotoxin formation in plants to their catabolic fate in humans. The book also provides new insights and will highlight possible gaps in the knowledge base of this relatively new area. Edited and written by World renowned experts working within the field, this book is of interest to toxicologists and biochemists, but also food scientists and agricultural researchers working in industry and academia.

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This expansive and practical textbook contains organic chemistry experiments for teaching in the laboratory at the undergraduate level covering a range of functional group transformations and key organic reactions.The editorial team have collected contributions from around the world and standardized them for publication. Each experiment will explore a modern chemistry scenario, such as: sustainable chemistry; application in the pharmaceutical industry; catalysis and material sciences, to name a few. All the experiments will be complemented with a set of questions to challenge the students and a section for the instructors, concerning the results obtained and advice on getting the best outcome from the experiment. A section covering practical aspects with tips and advice for the instructors, together with the results obtained in the laboratory by students, has been compiled for each experiment. Targeted at professors and lecturers in chemistry, this useful text will provide up to date experiments putting the science into context for the students.

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There is much interest in biodegradable polymers for different uses and polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) have potential applications in a broad range of areas from food packaging to biomedical applications. The book will provide a comprehensive overview of the recent accomplishments in the area of polyhydroxyalkanoates providing a resource that helps find solutions to both fundamental and applied problems. The book introduces polyhydroxyalkanoates including their biosynthesis, recovery and extraction followed by specific chapters on blends, composites and nanocomposites. The book finishes with the applications of the materials including additives in paints, adhesives, production of plastics as well as tissue engineering and drug delivery. The book provides a reference for students and researchers in chemistry, polymer science, materials science, biotechnology and life sciences working in the field of bio-based and biodegradable polymers and composites as well as those interested in its applications.

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Heme peroxidases are widely distributed in biological systems and are involved in a wide range of processes essential for life. This book provides a comprehensive single source of information on the various aspects of heme peroxidase structure, function and mechanism of action. Chapters written and edited by worldwide experts span a range of heme peroxidases from plants, yeast, bacteria and mammals. Discussed functions of peroxidases range from cell wall synthesis, synthesis of prostaglandins, role in drug suppression of tuberculosis, and antibacterial activity. Included is a discussion of peroxidases that also act as catalases and oxygenases. Heme Peroxidases serves as an essential text for those working in industry and academia in biochemistry and metallobiology.

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Following on from their previous volume on Chocolate as Medicine, Philip K. Wilson and W. Jeffrey Hurst edit this companion volume, Chocolate and Health, providing a comprehensive overview of the chemistry, nutrition and bioavailability of cacao and chocolate. The book begins with a brief historical introduction to the topic, outlining the current and historical medical uses of chocolate and chocolate derivatives. The remainder of the text is arranged into three sections, taking the reader through various aspects of the nutritional and health aspects of cacoa. The first section covers the cultivation, chemistry and genome analysis of cacao. The second section discusses the biochemistry and nutritional components of cacao in relation to health, covering bioavailabilty and the metabolism and metabolomics of cacao. The final section provides an overview of the potential use of chocolate in health and medical care. Each section is written and prepared by experts within each field, providing a global perspective of the current and ongoing research in this area. This text provides the reader with a complete overview of the field and is of interest to food and biomedical scientists, as well as nutritionists, medicinal chemists and anyone with an interest in chocolate.

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Finding alternatives to fossil feedstocks is increasing in importance with the challenges of global warming, increasing oil prices and depleting fossil fuel reserves that we currently face. Today, plant oils are important renewable raw materials for the chemical industry and are heavily used for surfactants, cosmetic products and lubricants. This book covers the green chemistry of products and intermediates synthesised from plant oils. Photo-initiated polymerisation and polymerization of vegetable oils in environmental media are covered as well as click reactions to chemically modify vegetable oils. Useful products from plant oils such as polymers, biomaterials, biofibres and lubricants, as well as their further applications, are described. This book is a valuable resource for researchers in academia and industry, biomass producers and suppliers and manufacturers of end-products.

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The book describes the new advances in the science and technology of hydrocolloids which are used in food and related systems. The focus is on the technofunctionality and the biofunctionality of hydrocolloids, giving an appropriate emphasis to the manipulative skills of the food scientist and recognising the special part hydrocolloids can play in supporting human health. Gums and Stabilisers for the Food Industry 17 captures the latest research findings of leading scientists which were presented at the Gums and Stabilisers for the Food Industry Conference. Covering a wide range of topics, including; functional properties of proteins, alternative protein surces, low moisture foods, value added co-products from biorefining and bioactive polysaccharides. This book is a useful information source to researchers and other professionals in industry and academia, particularly those involved with food science.

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