bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High‐performance low bandgap thin film solar cells for tandem applications
Authors: Elanzeery Hossam , Babbe Finn , Melchiorre Michele , Werner Florian , Siebentritt Susanne
Published: May 2018

Thin film tandem solar cells provide a promising approach to achieve high efficiencies. These tandem cells require at least a bottom low bandgap and an upper high bandgap solar cell. In this contribution, 2 high‐performance Cu(In,Ga)Se2 cells with bandgaps as low as 1.04 and 1.07 eV are presented. These cells have shown certified efficiencies of 15.7% and 16.6% respectively. Measuring these cells under a 780‐nm longpass filter, corresponding to the bandgap of a typical top cell in tandem applications (1.57 eV), they achieved efficiencies of 7.9% and 8.3%. Admittance measurements showed no recombination active deep defects. One additional high‐performance CuInSe2 thin film solar cell with bandgap of 0.95 eV and efficiency of 14.1% is presented. All 3 cells have the potential to be integrated as bottom low bandgap cells in thin film tandem applications achieving efficiencies around 24% stacked with an efficient high bandgap top cell.
Dynamic and Reversible Accumulation of Plasmonic Core‐Satellite Nanostructures in a Light‐Induced Temperature Gradient for In Situ SERS Detection
Authors: Kang Chia‐Yu , Li Jr‐Jie , Wu Li‐An , Wu Chia‐Cheng , Chen Yih‐Fan
Published: May 2018

A surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) detection method that allows dynamic on‐demand generation of SERS substrates at locations of interest for in situ molecular sensing is demonstrated. Thermal convection and thermophoresis, which are both generated in a laser‐induced temperature gradient, are used to accumulate suspended plasmonic nanostructures to form 3D SERS substrate. Raman signals of melamine, which is used as a model analyte, increase to ≈117‐fold within 2 min of laser irradiation because of the accumulation. In addition, it is demonstrated that the accumulation of the nanostructures is reversible, and that reproducible SERS effects can be obtained during a repeated heating and cooling process. Because of the capability of on‐demand generation of a high density of SERS hot spots at different locations in solution, this particle manipulation and SERS detection method is applicable to monitor temporal and spatial variations of the concentrations of molecules. The complexity of the detection system remains the same when using this method since all the measurements are performed with a conventional Raman system and simple fluid channels. The required temperature gradient is generated by the laser used to excite Raman signals, and no nanofabricated substrates and complicated microfluidic or optical components are needed.
Ionothermal Synthesis of Hollow Aluminophosphate Molecular Sieves
Authors: Feng Jie , Wang Jianfeng , Wang Zheng , Lu Tianliang , Wang Baishun , Xu Jun , Zhan Yuzhong , Han Li
Published: May 2018

Hollow AlPO4‐5 spheres (E‐AP and B‐AP) are synthesized ionothermally in tri‐substituted imidazolium bromide ionic liquids (ILs), that is, 1‐ethyl‐2,3‐dimethylimidazolium bromide and 1‐butyl‐2,3‐dimethylimidazolium bromide, respectively. Moreover, the morphologies of the hollow AlPO4‐5 particles vary with the type of ILs and the amounts of ILs, phosphoric acid, amine, and hydrofluoric acid. The thicknesses of the shells of the hollow spheres are substantially affected by the length of the alkyl chain on the imidazole ring of the ILs. The shell thicknesses significantly increase from 300–500 nm to 4–5 µm as the alkyl chain length increases, and solid AlPO4‐5 spheres (H‐AP) are generated in 1‐hexyl‐2,3‐dimethylimidazolium bromide IL. Furthermore, the experimental results suggest that the formation of hollow AlPO4‐5 spheres in an IL is consistent with Ostwald ripening theory. In addition, compared with ordinary solid AlPO4‐5 (S‐AP) prepared by hydrothermal methods, the hollow E‐AP particles are small and spherical. Moreover, the Co‐loaded hollow AlPO4‐5 (Co/E‐AP) catalyst exhibits excellent catalytic activities in the selective oxidation of tetralin. The reaction conversions are 73.5 and 5.7% over the Co/E‐AP catalyst and Co‐loaded solid AlPO4‐5 (Co/S‐AP) catalyst, respectively, which means that the hollow structure facilitates the mass transfer of the reactants and products in the catalytic reaction.
Airway function in infancy is linked to airflow measurements and respiratory symptoms from childhood into adulthood
Authors: Owens Louisa , Laing Ingrid A. , Zhang Guicheng , Turner Steve , Le Souëf Peter N.
Published: May 2018

Introduction

Increasing evidence suggests that poor lung function in adulthood is determined very early in life. Our study aims were: (1) identify factors associated with early infant lung function; (2) quantify the link between early infant lung function and early adult lung function; and (3) identify environmental and inherited factors which predict lung function throughout the post‐natal growth period.

Methods

In this longitudinal study, 253 individuals were recruited antenatally. Lung function and allergy testing occurred at 1, 6, 12 months, 6, 11, 18, and 24 years of age. The relationship between lung function at 1 month (V'maxFRC) and spirometry variables at each follow‐up was evaluated. Early life predictors of spirometry were assessed longitudinally using linear mixed models.

Results

V'maxFRC correlated positively with FEF25‐75% at every assessment from 6 to 24 years and FEV1/FVC at 11 and 24 years and inversely with airway responsiveness at 6 and 18 years. Maternal asthma and smoking in pregnancy were associated with lower FEV1 from 6 to 24 years (−99 mL, P = 0.03; −77 mL, P = 0.045 respectively). Lower V'maxFRC at 1 month was associated with asthma and wheeze through to 24 years.

Conclusion

Lung airflow measurements track from birth into early adulthood, suggesting a permanent and stable airway framework is laid down in the antenatal period. Lower infant airway function is associated with respiratory symptoms into adulthood, indicating the link is clinically important. Antenatal and early life exposures must be addressed in order to maximize airway growth and reduce lifelong respiratory compromise.
Investigation of SiO2/TiO2 Index Matching Layer Applied to MTO/Ag/MTO Structured Film Deposited on PET Substrate
Authors: Yoon Sangmoo , Kim Taekeun , Jang Guneik
Published: May 2018

For the commercial application of transparent conductive oxide (TCO) materials in touch screens, the incident light should be reflected at the interfaces between the stacked TCO layers having different refractive indices. To reduce optical loss, the presence of an index‐matching (IM) passivation layer between the conductive layer and substrate is necessary. The objective of the present study is to evaluate and compare the effects of an IM layer (SiO2/TiO2) on the optical spectra and color variation in the case of MTO/Ag/MTO films with and without the SiO2/TiO2 layers. The optical properties are systematically investigated using an ultraviolet (UV)‐visible (Vis) spectrophotometer. The optical transmittance of all fabricated films is higher than 85% at the wavelength of 550 nm. The optimal thickness of the SiO2/TiO2 layer is SiO2 (90, 100 nm)/TiO2 (10 nm). A low reflectance difference (ΔR550nm) of 1.5 and 1.3%, and the color difference representing the blue‐yellow color (Δb*) of 0.6 and 3.1 are achieved with the optimal thickness of SiO2 (90 and 100 nm)/TiO2 (10 nm), respectively.
Structural and Electronic Properties of Inorganic Mixed Halide Perovskites
Authors: Chen Xuejiao , Han Dong , Su Ying , Zeng Qinghui , Liu Lei , Shen Dezhen
Published: May 2018

In this work, we investigate the structural and electronic variations of all‐inorganic mixed halide perovskites CsPb(Cl1−xBrx)3 and CsPb(Br1−xIx)3 upon their halide composition, by the first‐principles calculation with the spin–orbit interaction. We find that these perovskites always keep their direct‐bandgap nature, even though structurally their PbX6 octahedra are more or less distorted with different halide ratios (Cl/Br or Br/I). Their optical bowing parameters show no dependence on such composition ratios, which means their bandgaps can be linearly tuned. Moreover, these perovskites also exhibit rather good bipolar transport character, as both electrons and holes have the effective masses of less than 0.2m0. Therefore, we propose that by properly tuning the halide composition ratio, these mixed halide perovskites can be fabricated into light‐emitting devices with selected frequency in a broad frequency range.
Inhibitory and inductive effects of Corydalis saxicola Bunting total alkaloids (CSBTA) on cytochrome P450s in rats
Authors: Yu Jiaojiao , Liu Qiuyan , Lu Xiaoyu , Li Xiaonan , Li Ning , Liu Baolin , Huang Fang , Qiu Zhixia
Published: May 2018

Corydalis saxicola Bunting, a well‐known traditional Chinese medicine in south China, has been widely used for the treatment of various hepatic diseases. Its active ingredients are Corydalis saxicola Bunting total alkaloids (CSBTA), which primarily include dehydrocavidine, palmatine, and berberine. These representative alkaloids could be metabolized by hepatic CYP450s. Hence, it is necessary to investigate the potential influences of CSBTA on CYP450s to explore the possibility of herb–drug interactions. In present study, in vitro inhibition and in vivo induction studies were performed to evaluate the potential effects of CSBTA extract on CYP450s in rats. Inhibition assay illustrated that CSBTA exerted inhibitory effects on CYP1A2 (IC50, 38.08 μg/ml; Ki, 14.3 μg/ml), CYP2D1 (IC50, 20.89 μg/ml; Ki, 9.34 μg/ml), CYP2C6/11 (IC50 for diclofenac and S‐mephenytoin, 56.98 and 31.59 μg/ml; Ki, 39.0 and 23.8 μg/ml), and CYP2B1 (IC50, 48.49 μg/ml; Ki, 36.3 μg/ml) in a noncompetitive manner. Induction study showed CSBTA had obvious inhibitory rather than inductive effects on CYP1A2 and CYP2C6/11. Interestingly, neither inhibition nor induction on CYP3A was observed for CSBTA. In conclusion, CSBTA–drug interactions might occur through CYP450s inhibition, particularly CYP1A and CYP2D. Further studies are still needed to elucidate the underlying mechanisms of inhibition.
Targeting lateral connectivity and morphodynamics in a large river‐floodplain system: The upper Rhine River
Authors: Díaz‐Redondo M. , Egger G. , Marchamalo M. , Damm C. , de Oliveira R.P. , Schmitt L.
Published: May 2018

As a consequence of historical damming and channelization, most large rivers are disconnected from their floodplains, which therefore endure severe deficits in fluvial dynamics. Regaining some degree of lateral connectivity can lead to improved geomorphological and biological interactions. Yet, it is necessary to take into account limitations posed by current uses and legislation. This study presents a methodological approach to the selection of a realistic restoration target for a heavily modified large river segment, the free‐flowing Upper Rhine River downstream of Iffezheim dam (France–Germany border), based on the analysis of the existing biogeomorphic deficits, constraints set by human uses, and previous restoration experiences. To achieve the selected restoration target, proposed scenarios include embankment removal, bank lowerings, and side channel widenings with the aim of increasing lateral hydrological connectivity and promoting morphodynamics (bank erosion in lateral channels) that allow for the renewal of floodplain habitats. Results from 2‐D hydraulic simulations allow for a sensitivity analysis, comparing the current situation with the proposed scenarios, through parameters such as shore length of side channels actively connected at both ends to the main channel (eupotamon), and shear stress as a proxy for initiation of gravel erosion. Outcomes indicate that the two proposed restoration scenarios would succeed in reconnecting side channels and in increasing areas prone to substrate erosion, while maintaining flood protection and the heaviest navigation use among European rivers. The presented approach aids in the assessment of potential large river restoration scenarios and, thus, in the discussion of water management strategies.
Use of the Richardson extrapolation in optics of inhomogeneous layers: Application to optical characterization
Authors: Vohánka Jiří , Ohlídal Ivan , Ženíšek Jaroslav , Vašina Petr , Čermák Martin , Franta Daniel
Published: May 2018

A new approach to calculation of optical quantities of inhomogeneous layers is presented. In this approach, the Richardson extrapolation is used to improve the accuracy of the method, in which the inhomogeneous layer is approximated by a stack of thin homogeneous layers. The results presented in this paper are based on the assumption that the media are isotropic and the inhomogeneity is along the axis normal to the boundary. The results obtained by the new method are compared with those obtained without the Richardson extrapolation. The Richardson extrapolation brings significant improvement in accuracy, especially if the number of approximating layers is large. Moreover, the method using the Richardson extrapolation proceeds in steps with an error estimate available in each step; thus, the calculation can be stopped when the desired accuracy is reached. The use of the method is illustrated by means of the optical characterization of strongly inhomogeneous film of non‐stoichiometric silicon nitride.
Microfluidics for Cancer Nanomedicine: From Fabrication to Evaluation
Authors: Zhang Hao , Zhu Yifeng , Shen Youqing
Published: May 2018

Self‐assembled drug delivery systems (sDDSs), made from nanocarriers and drugs, are one of the major types of nanomedicines, many of which are in clinical use, under preclinical investigation, or in clinical trials. One of the hurdles of this type of nanomedicine in real applications is the inherent complexity of their fabrication processes, which generally lack precise control over the sDDS structures and the batch‐to‐batch reproducibility. Furthermore, the classic 2D in vitro cell model, monolayer cell culture, has been used to evaluate sDDSs. However, 2D cell culture cannot adequately replicate in vivo tissue‐level structures and their highly complex dynamic 3D environments, nor can it simulate their functions. Thus, evaluations using 2D cell culture often cannot correctly correlate with sDDS behaviors and effects in humans. Microfluidic technology offers novel solutions to overcome these problems and facilitates studying the structure–performance relationships for sDDS developments. In this Review, recent advances in microfluidics for 1) fabrication of sDDSs with well‐defined physicochemical properties, such as size, shape, rigidity, and drug‐loading efficiency, and 2) fabrication of 3D‐cell cultures as “tissue/organ‐on‐a‐chip” platforms for evaluations of sDDS biological performance are in focus.
Graphene Caging Silicon Particles for High‐Performance Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Nie Ping , Le Zaiyuan , Chen Gen , Liu Dan , Liu Xiaoyan , Wu Hao Bin , Xu Pengcheng , Li Xinru , Liu Fang , Chang Limin , Zhang Xiaogang , Lu Yunfeng
Published: May 2018

Silicon holds great promise as an anode material for lithium‐ion batteries with higher energy density; its implication, however, is limited by rapid capacity fading. A catalytic growth of graphene cages on composite particles of magnesium oxide and silicon, which are made by magnesiothermic reduction reaction of silica particles, is reported herein. Catalyzed by the magnesium oxide, graphene cages can be conformally grown onto the composite particles, leading to the formation of hollow graphene‐encapsulated Si particles. Such materials exhibit excellent lithium storage properties in terms of high specific capacity, remarkable rate capability (890 mAh g−1 at 5 A g−1), and good cycling retention over 200 cycles with consistently high coulombic efficiency at a current density of 1 A g−1. A full battery test using LiCoO2 as the cathode demonstrates a high energy density of 329 Wh kg−1.
Ganoderma‐Like MoS2/NiS2 with Single Platinum Atoms Doping as an Efficient and Stable Hydrogen Evolution Reaction Catalyst
Authors: Guan Yongxin , Feng Yangyang , Wan Jing , Yang Xiaohui , Fang Ling , Gu Xiao , Liu Ruirui , Huang Zhengyong , Li Jian , Luo Jun , Li Changming , Wang Yu
Published: May 2018

Herein, a unique ganoderma‐like MoS2/NiS2 hetero‐nanostructure with isolated Pt atoms anchored is reported. This novel ganoderma‐like heterostructure can not only efficiently disperse and confine the few‐layer MoS2 nanosheets to fully expose the edge sites of MoS2, and provide more opportunity to capture the Pt atoms, but also tune the electronic structure to modify the catalytic activity. Because of the favorable dispersibility and exposed large specific surface area, single Pt atoms can be easily anchored on MoS2 nanosheets with ultrahigh loading of 1.8 at% (the highest is 1.3 at% to date). Owing to the ganoderma‐like structure and platinum atoms doping, this catalyst shows Pt‐like catalytic activity for the hydrogen evolution reaction with an ultralow overpotential of 34 mV and excellent durability of only 2% increase in overpotential for 72 h under the constant current density of 10 mA cm−2.
Label‐Free Optofluidic Nanobiosensor Enables Real‐Time Analysis of Single‐Cell Cytokine Secretion
Authors: Li Xiaokang , Soler Maria , Szydzik Crispin , Khoshmanesh Khashayar , Schmidt Julien , Coukos George , Mitchell Arnan , Altug Hatice
Published: May 2018

Single‐cell analysis of cytokine secretion is essential to understand the heterogeneity of cellular functionalities and develop novel therapies for multiple diseases. Unraveling the dynamic secretion process at single‐cell resolution reveals the real‐time functional status of individual cells. Fluorescent and colorimetric‐based methodologies require tedious molecular labeling that brings inevitable interferences with cell integrity and compromises the temporal resolution. An innovative label‐free optofluidic nanoplasmonic biosensor is introduced for single‐cell analysis in real time. The nanobiosensor incorporates a novel design of a multifunctional microfluidic system with small volume microchamber and regulation channels for reliable monitoring of cytokine secretion from individual cells for hours. Different interleukin‐2 secretion profiles are detected and distinguished from single lymphoma cells. The sensor configuration combined with optical spectroscopic imaging further allows us to determine the spatial single‐cell secretion fingerprints in real time. This new biosensor system is anticipated to be a powerful tool to characterize single‐cell signaling for basic and clinical research.
Fabrication of Micropatterned Dipeptide Hydrogels by Acoustic Trapping of Stimulus‐Responsive Coacervate Droplets
Authors: Nichols Madeleine K. , Kumar Ravinash Krishna , Bassindale Philip G. , Tian Liangfei , Barnes Adrian C. , Drinkwater Bruce W. , Patil Avinash J. , Mann Stephen
Published: May 2018

Acoustic standing waves offer an excellent opportunity to trap and spatially manipulate colloidal objects. This noncontact technique is used for the in situ formation and patterning in aqueous solution of 1D or 2D arrays of pH‐responsive coacervate microdroplets comprising poly(diallyldimethylammonium) chloride and the dipeptide N‐fluorenyl‐9‐methoxy‐carbonyl‐D‐alanine‐D‐alanine. Decreasing the pH of the preformed droplet arrays results in dipeptide nanofilament self‐assembly and subsequent formation of a micropatterned supramolecular hydrogel that can be removed as a self‐supporting monolith. Guest molecules such as molecular dyes, proteins, and oligonucleotides are sequestered specifically within the coacervate droplets during acoustic processing to produce micropatterned hydrogels containing spatially organized functional components. Using this strategy, the site‐specific isolation of multiple enzymes to drive a catalytic cascade within the micropatterned hydrogel films is exploited.
Charge‐Storage Aromatic Amino Compounds for Nonvolatile Organic Transistor Memory Devices
Authors: Zheng Chaoyue , Tong Tong , Hu Yueming , Gu Yuming , Wu Huarui , Wu Dequn , Meng Hong , Yi Mingdong , Ma Jing , Gao Deqing , Huang Wei
Published: May 2018

Here, charge‐storage nonvolatile organic field‐effect transistor (OFET) memory devices based on interfacial self‐assembled molecules are proposed. The functional molecules contain various aromatic amino moieties (N‐phenyl‐N‐pyridyl amino‐ (PyPN), N‐phenyl amino‐ (PN), and N,N‐diphenyl amino‐ (DPN)) which are linked by a propyl chain to a triethoxysilyl anchor group and act as the interface modifiers and the charge‐storage elements. The PyPN‐containing pentacene‐based memory device (denoted as PyPN device) presents the memory window of 48.43 V, while PN and DPN devices show the memory windows of 24.88 and 8.34 V, respectively. The memory characteristic of the PyPN device can remain stable along with 150 continuous write‐read‐erase‐read cycles. The morphology analysis confirms that three interfacial layers show aggregation due to the N atomic self‐catalysis and hydrogen bonding effects. The large aggregate‐covered PyPN layer has the full contact area with the pentacene molecules, leading to the high memory performance. In addition, the energy level matching between PyPN molecules and pentacene creates the smallest tunneling barrier and facilitates the injection of the hole carriers from pentacene to the PyPN layer. The experimental memory characteristics are well in agreement with the computational calculation.
NiSe‐Ni0.85Se Heterostructure Nanoflake Arrays on Carbon Paper as Efficient Electrocatalysts for Overall Water Splitting
Authors: Chen Yajie , Ren Zhiyu , Fu Huiying , Zhang Xin , Tian Guohui , Fu Honggang
Published: May 2018

Fabricating cost‐effective, bifunctional electrocatalysts for both the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER) in basic media is critical for renewable energy generation. Here, NiSe/CP, Ni0.85Se/CP, and NiSe‐Ni0.85Se/CP heterostructure catalysts with different phase constitutions are successfully prepared through in situ selenylation of a NiO nanoflake array oriented on carbon paper (CP) by tuning the original Ni/Se molar ratio of the raw materials. The relationship between the crystal phase component and electrocatalytic activity is systematically studied. Benefiting from the synergetic effect of the intrinsic metallic state, facile charge transport, abundant catalytic active sites, and multiple electrolyte transmission paths, the optimized NiSe‐Ni0.85Se/CP exhibits a remarkably higher catalytic activity for both the HER and OER than single‐phase NiSe/CP and Ni0.85Se/CP. A current density of 10 mA cm−2 at 1.62 V and a high stability can be obtained by using NiSe‐Ni0.85Se/CP as both the cathode and anode for overall water splitting under alkaline conditions. Density functional theory calculations confirm that H and OH− can be more easily adsorbed on NiSe‐Ni0.85Se than on NiSe and Ni0.85Se. This study paves the way for enhancing the overall water splitting performance of nickel selenides by fabricating heterophase junctions using nickel selenides with different phases.
Ranking of elements in system reliability modeling: The least influence method
Authors: Rothstein Alexander , Dreyfuss Michael
Published: May 2018

In this paper, we propose a new method of elements ranking in system reliability design using the theory of fuzzy relations. The problem is formulated as an automatic classification based on the transitive closure of the fuzzy similarity relations. This allows splitting the set of system elements into disjoint classes, which are similar in importance. To define the fuzzy relations of similarity we present the parameters of each element as a vector of influences. To measure the similarity of elements, we use the distance between the two vectors and for the degree of influence evaluation, we present a special algorithm using the expert knowledge about the least impact of an element and about the comparisons to the other influences using the 9‐point Saaty scale. The proposed method relaxes the assumption about the independence and the binary state (up/down) of elements. The possible fields of application are systems with ill‐defined structures and multifunctional elements such as organizational, ergatic, military, political, and other complex systems.
A blueprint to build women chief executive officers globally
Authors: Rao M.S.
Published: May 2018

The purpose of this article is to offer a blueprint to build women chief executive officers (CEOs) globally. It outlines essential qualities for women CEOs. It explains CEO acumen and offers tools and techniques for women to excel as CEOs. It draws a blueprint for global organizations to build women CEOs. It differentiates between women and men leaders. It emphasizes women can make better leaders than men. It illustrates with inspiring examples of women leaders including Melinda Gates, Michelle Obama, Hillary Clinton, Angela Merkel, Indra Nooyi, Ursula Burns, Meg Whitman, and Sheryl Sandberg. It implores women to seize the opportunities to break the glass ceiling to excel as CEOs. It enlightens the society cannot grow when one sex is denied with opportunities. It calls upon men to empathize with women and extend their hands with a big heart to groom them as CEOs. It advocates gender equality globally. It concludes women leaders must express their ambition in the early stage of their careers and work hard consistently and relentlessly with a focus and vision to excel as CEOs globally.
MA‐XRF study of 15th–17th century icons from the collection of the National Museum in Krakow, Poland
Authors: Walczak Małgorzata , Tarsińska‐Petruk Dominika , Płotek Michał , Goryl Maria , Kruk Mirosław P.
Published: May 2018

In 2015, the National Museum in Krakow, Poland, started a grant from the National Programme for the Development of Humanities, its goal to investigate an important collection of old Orthodox painting, including more than 50 15th to 17th century icons originating from the territory of the historical Orthodox Diocese of Przemyśl within the borders of the Polish Kingdom.

The aim of researching the iconography, provenance, and technology of the artworks was to describe their specific features and destination, in detail, and to characterise their artistic milieu. Many different techniques were used during research, such as X‐ray fluorescence (XRF), X‐ray diffraction, reflectography, radiography, ultraviolet–visible imaging, Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy with energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy of prepared paint layer cross sections, and dendro‐chronological analysis. This paper focuses on highlighting the advantages and disadvantages of the spatially resolved macro‐XRF scanning (MA‐XRF) technique.

Most interesting results concluded from elemental distribution maps obtained through the use of Bruker, M6 Jetstream MA‐XRF scanner include the following: characterisation of the type of gold and silver foil used in the icons; determination of main pigments, including the use of lead tin yellow unusual in iconography; and the noting of an interesting distribution of blue pigments as well as the presence of orpiment. Surprisingly, a considerable amount of zinc with azurite addition was observed in brown layers. The results obtained primarily highlight all the typical features of local Carpathian icon craft.
Reducing external costs of nitrogen pollution by relocation of pig production between regions in the European Union
Authors: van Grinsven Hans J. M. , van Dam Jan D. , Lesschen Jan Peter , Timmers Marloes H. G. , Velthof Gerard L. , Lassaletta Luis
Published: May 2018

This paper tests the hypothesis that relocation of pig production within the EU27 can reduce the external costs of nitrogen (N) pollution. The external cost of pollution by ammonia and nitrate from agriculture in the European Union (EU27) in 2008 was estimated at 61–215 billion € (0.5 to 1.8% of the GDP). Per capita it ranged from more than 1000 € in north-west EU27 to 50 € in Romania. The average contribution of pig production was 15%. Using provincial data (224 NUTS2 regions in EU27), the potential reduction of external N cost by relocation of pig production was estimated at 14 billion € (10% of the total). Regions most eligible for decreasing the pig stock were in western Germany, Flemish region, Denmark, the Netherlands and Bretagne, while Romania is most eligible for increasing pig production. Relocating 20 million pigs (13% of the total EU stock) decreased average external costs per capita from 900 to 785 € in the 13 NUTS2 regions where pigs were removed and increased from 69 to 107 € in 11 regions receiving pigs. A second alternative configuration of pig production was targeted at reducing exceedance of critical N deposition and closing regional nutrient cycles. This configuration relocates pigs within Germany and France, for example from Bretagne to Northern France and from Weser-Ems to Oberbayern. However, total external cost increases due to an increase of health impacts, unless when combined with implementation of best N management practices. Relocation of the pig industry in the EU27 will meet many socio-economic barriers and realisation requires new policy incentives.
Metabolomic and proteomic analysis of d-lactate-producing Lactobacillus delbrueckii under various fermentation conditions
Authors: Liang Shaoxiong , Gao Dacheng , Liu Huanhuan , Wang Cheng , Wen Jianping
Published: May 2018

As an important feedstock monomer for the production of biodegradable stereo-complex poly-lactic acid polymer, d-lactate has attracted much attention. To improve d-lactate production by microorganisms such as Lactobacillus delbrueckii, various fermentation conditions were performed, such as the employment of anaerobic fermentation, the utilization of more suitable neutralizing agents, and exploitation of alternative nitrogen sources. The highest d-lactate titer could reach 133 g/L under the optimally combined fermentation condition, increased by 70.5% compared with the control. To decipher the potential mechanisms of d-lactate overproduction, the time-series response of intracellular metabolism to different fermentation conditions was investigated by GC–MS and LC–MS/MS-based metabolomic analysis. Then the metabolomic datasets were subjected to weighted correlation network analysis (WGCNA), and nine distinct metabolic modules and eight hub metabolites were identified to be specifically associated with d-lactate production. Moreover, a quantitative iTRAQ–LC–MS/MS proteomic approach was employed to further analyze the change of intracellular metabolism under the combined fermentation condition, identifying 97 up-regulated and 42 down-regulated proteins compared with the control. The in-depth analysis elucidated how the key factors exerted influence on d-lactate biosynthesis. The results revealed that glycolysis and pentose phosphate pathways, transport of glucose, amino acids and peptides, amino acid metabolism, peptide hydrolysis, synthesis of nucleotides and proteins, and cell division were all strengthened, while ATP consumption for exporting proton, cell damage, metabolic burden caused by stress response, and bypass of pyruvate were decreased under the combined condition. These might be the main reasons for significantly improved d-lactate production. These findings provide the first omics view of cell growth and d-lactate overproduction in L. delbrueckii, which can be a theoretical basis for further improving the production of d-lactate.
Ontogenetic changes in anti‐herbivore defensive traits in leaves of four Mediterranean co‐occurring Quercus species
Authors: Mediavilla Sonia , Babiano Josefa , Martínez‐Ortega Montserrat , Escudero Alfonso
Published: May 2018

Investment in anti‐herbivore defence in tree species has been one of the priority research topics in plant terrestrial ecology during the last decades. However, despite considerable experimental effort, interspecific differences in the ontogenetic trends in the investment in defence are still a matter of debate, as to date experimental evidence is contradictory. In the present work, insect herbivory levels were measured in seedlings and mature trees of four co‐occurring Mediterranean Quercus species with differing leaf life spans, as well as several leaf characteristics that can determine herbivore preference. The measured leaf traits included nitrogen (N), fibre (cellulose, hemicellulose and lignin), total phenolic contents, leaf mass per unit area (LMA) and leaf thickness. The leaves of seedlings had a lower LMA and leaf thickness and lower concentrations of N and cellulose, but higher concentrations of lignin and phenols than those of mature trees. However, the loss of leaf area tended to be more severe for seedlings than for mature trees, although the differences were only significant for deciduous species. This constitutes a confirmation of the strong effects of physical traits on herbivore preferences. The greater resource limitations for defensive mechanisms in seedlings with respect to mature trees would explain that at intraspecific level we do observe a compromise between chemical and physical defences. As a result, seedlings rely on chemical rather than on physical defences.
An Introduction to European Law
Authors: Schütze Robert
Published: May 2018

Written with exceptional clarity, simplicity and precision, this short textbook provides a classic introduction to European law. Using a clear structural framework, it guides students through the subject's core elements and key issues, from the creation and enforcement of European law to the workings of the internal market. Chapters are enriched with figures and tables to clarify difficult topics and illustrate relationships and processes, ensuring that students understand even the most complex of concepts. The second edition has been updated throughout and includes an entirely new chapter on the internal market for goods. Two new practical appendices offer suggestions for further reading and guide readers through the process of finding and reading EU Court judgments. A companion website features full 'Lisbonised' versions of the cases cited in the text, links to EU legislation, downloadable figures and textbook updates.
European Constitutional Law
Authors: Schütze Robert
Published: May 2018

Written with exceptional clarity and fully updated from the first edition, the second edition of European Constitutional Law constitutes a classic textbook for students and practitioners of European law. Using a clear structural framework, the text guides readers through all of the core constitutional topics of EU law. Extracts from classic case law are complemented with extensive and critical discussion of the theoretical and practical aspects of the European Union and its law, leading students to a deep understanding of the subject. Chapters are enriched with more than fifty colour figures and tables, which clarify complex topics and illustrate relationships and processes. New suggestions for further reading direct students to significant pieces of academic literature for deeper self-study, and a companion website with full 'Lisbonised' versions of the cases cited in the text completes the learning package.
A survey of mental disorder in the long-term, rough sleeping, homeless population of inner Dublin
Authors: Hynes F. , Kilbride K. , Fenton J.
Published: May 2018

Objectives

Homelessness causes huge distress to a vulnerable population and great concern to wider society. The aim of this study was to reflect the prevalence of mental disorder within a subset of the homeless population in Dublin.

Method

Long-term rough sleepers in Dublin were identified by the relevant non-statutory agency (Dublin Simon Community’s Rough Sleepers Team). The authors attempted to assess all the identified individuals employing traditional clinical methods.

Results

We managed to assess 16 of the 22 identified individuals. We detected no formal disorder in ~30%, severe mental illness in ~30% and either alcohol or substance misuse in another ~30%. We detected dual diagnosis (co-occurrence of severe mental illness and alcohol or substance misuse) in 10%.

Conclusion

Most but not all long-term rough sleepers in Dublin had a formal mental disorder identified. Just under one-third had a severe mental illness. This suggests that individualised patient centred health and social care will be required on a case by case basis in the long-term rough sleeping population.
Happiness at work: Developing a shorter measure
Authors: Salas-Vallina Andrés , Alegre Joaquín
Published: May 2018

The notion of happiness at work is becoming increasingly important for human resource management research. Despite the widespread existence of different constructs that capture positive attitudes, a comprehensive measure of individual-level happiness is necessary. Starting from Fisher’s conceptualisation of happiness at work, Salas-Vallina, Alegre, and Fernández developed a 31-item scale to measure happiness at work. This scale accurately captures the different dimensions of happiness in the workplace context. However, it is a long scale. Shorter scales provide major improvements in efficiency and efficacy. Our study, conducted with two diversified samples, conceptualises and measures happiness at work. Following the steps suggested by Stanton, Sinar, Balzer, and Smith and Kacmar, Crawford, Carlson, Ferguson, and Whitten, we provide a shortened version of the happiness at work scale, while maintaining its psychometric properties. We argue that this new measurement scale presents a high statistical potential to widely capture positive attitudes at work and opens undeveloped research possibilities.
Diversity and preserved shell coloration patterns of Miocene Conidae (Neogastropoda) from an exposure of the Gatun Formation, Colón Province, Panama
Authors: Hendricks Jonathan R.
Published: May 2018

Extant members of the neogastropod family Conidae (cone snails) are renowned for their often dazzling shell coloration patterns and venomous feeding habits. Many cone snail species have also been described from the fossil record, but to date have been little used to understand the evolutionary history of extant clades. The cone snail fauna of the Miocene Gatun Formation of Colón Province, Panama is especially important for understanding the temporal and biogeographic history of tropical American Conidae. Intensive, focused collecting from an exposure of the lower Gatun Formation (deposited ca. 11–10 Ma) resulted in the discovery of nearly 900 specimens of Conidae. Remarkably, many of these well-preserved specimens exhibit revealed coloration patterns when exposed to ultraviolet light. The fluorescing coloration patterns were used in conjunction with other features of shell morphology to differentiate species and, in most cases, evaluate their potential relationships to members of the extant tropical American fauna. Nine species are fully described from this locality, one of which is recognized as new:Conus(Stephanoconus)woodringin. sp. At least one, and perhaps more, additional Conidae species are also present at the study locality. The diversity of this Conidae fauna is considered moderate relative to other recently analyzed tropical American fossil assemblages. The phylogenetic diversity of the assemblage, however, is noteworthy: six of the ten species can be confidently assigned to six different clades of extant Conidae, providing potentially useful calibration points for future phylogenetic studies.

http://zoobank.org/8fe00c31-8f3f-4514-85af-29068e468cd3
Convergence on dental simplification in the evolution of whales
Authors: Peredo Carlos Mauricio , Peredo Julio S. , Pyenson Nicholas D.
Published: May 2018

The fossil record of mammal dentition provides crucial insight into key ecological and functional transitions throughout mammalian evolutionary history. For cetaceans, both extant clades differ markedly from their stem ancestors; neither retains the differentiated dentition or the tribosphenic molars characteristic of Mammalia. We used quantitative measures of dental complexity across fossil and living cetaceans to identify a trend toward dental simplicity through the Neogene. Both extant cetacean clades depart from the ancestral mammalian condition and concurrently converge upon a reduced and simplified dentition; modern mysticetes all have become entirely edentulous (at birth), and living odontocetes possess teeth as single-rooted, conical pegs. These two parallel trends accompany major shifts in feeding strategy (i.e., filter feeding in mysticetes and echolocation in odontocetes), suggesting that these evolutionary innovations for prey acquisition are enabling factors for the loss of prey processing and subsequent convergence on dental simplification.
Functional Connectome of the Five-Factor Model of Personality
Authors: Toschi Nicola , Riccelli Roberta , Indovina Iole , Terracciano Antonio , Passamonti Luca
Published: May 2018

A key objective of the emerging field of personality neuroscience is to link the great variety of the enduring dispositions of human behaviour with reliable markers of brain function. This can be achieved by analysing big data-sets with methods that model whole-brain connectivity patterns. To meet these expectations, we exploited a large repository of personality and neuroimaging measures made publicly available via the Human Connectome Project. Using connectomic analyses based on graph theory, we computed global and local indices of functional connectivity (e.g., nodal strength, efficiency, clustering, betweenness centrality) and related these metrics to the five-factor model (FFM) personality traits (i.e., neuroticism, extraversion, openness, agreeableness, and conscientiousness). The maximal information coefficient was used to assess for linear and nonlinear statistical dependencies across the graph “nodes”, which were defined as distinct large-scale brain circuits identified via independent component analysis. Multivariate regression models and “train/test” approaches were used to examine the associations between FFM traits and connectomic indices as well as to assess the generalizability of the main findings, while accounting for age and sex variability. Conscientiousness was the sole FFM trait linked to measures of higher functional connectivity in the fronto-parietal and default mode networks. This offers a mechanistic explanation of the behavioural observation that conscientious people are reliable and efficient in goal-setting or planning. Our study provides new inputs to understanding the neurological basis of personality and contributes to the development of more realistic models of the brain dynamics that mediate personality differences.
Relations of Parent-Child Interaction to Chinese Young Children's Emotion Understanding
Authors: Zhang Heyi
Published: May 2018

The present study examined the relationship between parent-child interaction and children's emotion understanding ability. The participants were 56 three-year-old children and their mothers from Beijing, China. Mothers and children took part in three dyadic interaction tasks and were video recorded for coding of both mothers’ and children's behaviours. Each child completed three individually administered tests of emotion understanding, including the facial expression recognition task, emotion perspective-taking task, and emotion reason understanding task. Results demonstrated that both mothers’ and children's interaction behaviours were related to children's emotion understanding. Gender differences were found in the relationships between interaction behaviours and children's emotion understanding. Girls’ emotion understanding was associated with children's positive behaviours. In contrast, boys’ emotion understanding was not associated with children's positive behaviours, but related to mothers’ negative behaviours.
Pliocene–Pleistocene sedimentary development of the syntectonic Polis graben, NW Cyprus: evidence from facies analysis, nannofossil biochronology and strontium isotope dating
Authors: BALMER ELIZABETH M. , ROBERTSON ALASTAIR H. F. , RAFFI ISABELLA , KROON DICK
Published: May 2018

The recently uplifted and exposed Pliocene and Pleistocene sedimentary infill of the neotectonic Polis graben provides an excellent opportunity to understand extensional basin development in a marine setting. Fieldwork, facies analysis and dating using nannofossils and strontium isotopes reveal how the sedimentary conditions evolved during infill of the Polis graben during Pliocene and Pleistocene time, and allow a composite succession for the depocentre to be determined for the first time. Six lithofacies are recognized in the northern Polis graben, allowing evolving palaeoenvironments to be inferred. By the end of Miocene time (Messinian) a majorc.N–S-trending graben was established; extensional faulting continued during the Pliocene–Pleistocene until recent time. Post-Messinian salinity crisis deposition began with deposition of hemipelagic muds (c.5.08–2.76 Ma), equivalent to the Nicosia Formation. This was followed by upwards incoming of repeated normal-graded bioclastic carbonates (couplets) (c.2.76–1.6 Ma), which are interpreted as age-equivalents of the Athalassa Formation elsewhere in Cyprus. The upwards sudden facies change is explained by tectonically controlled shallowing which enabled neritic carbonate production on the basin margins. The appearance of basement-derived material (e.g. ophiolitic extrusive detritus) in the highest stratigraphic levels of the basin fill in the north (c.1.7–1.6 Ma) reflects onset of rapid surface uplift focused on the Troodos ophiolitic massif. Overall, the syntectonic basin infill appears to document a two-stage, pulsed uplift related to early-stage collision of the African and Eurasian plates in the easternmost Mediterranean region.
The first occurrence of the earliest species of Acadoparadoxides outside West Gondwana (Cambrian; Holy Cross Mountains, Poland)
Authors: NOWICKI JAKUB , ŻYLIŃSKA ANNA
Published: May 2018

Two hundred and eighty specimens of paradoxidids from two localities in the Holy Cross Mountains (Poland) have been reanalysed using morphometric techniques. Revision of the dataset provided evidence for the presence of two endemic taxa: Acadoparadoxides kozlowskii (Orłowski, 1959) and Acadoparadoxides samsonowiczi (Orłowski, 1959), both belonging to the earliest group of Acadoparadoxides, initially considered to be present only in Gondwanan successions. Thus, this is the first description of the members of this group outside West Gondwana. The taxonomic revision, and the presence of representatives of the earliest acadoparadoxidines coupled with the absence of taxa typical of Scandinavia that were previously described from this locality have resulted in the modification of the biostratigraphic scheme hitherto used in the Holy Cross Mountains. The newly established A. samsonowiczi – A. kozlowskii Assemblage Zone is correlated with the Morocconus notabilis Zone of Morocco, and thus represents the Cambrian Series 2 and 3 boundary interval. Links with West Gondwana challenge the existing palaeogeographic interpretations for the southern part of the Holy Cross Mountains and point to an urgent need to revise the position of the Małopolska Block during the middle Cambrian.