bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The modulation of melanin‐like materials: methods, characterization and applications
Authors: Jin Zhaoxia , Fan Hailong
Published: June 2016

The growing interest in melanin‐like materials makes a strong request for fabrication strategies, modulation methods of their morphologies and properties, and profound knowledge of their structure–property relationship. In this review, we summarize the state‐of‐the‐art modulation methods of melanin‐like materials, with respect to both their chemical structures and morphologies. The change of chemical structures and morphologies of these materials manipulates their inherent properties, leading to broadening applications of melanin‐like materials. The methodology combining various characterization methods and theoretical calculations not only shows advantages for clearly identifying the molecular engineering of melanin‐like compounds but also sheds light on fully understanding their properties. This fundamental work provides researchers with great diversity and choices of fabrication and modulation methods based on the specific demands of emerging applications. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Caregiver distress and patient health‐related quality of life: psychosocial screening during pediatric cancer treatment
Authors: Pierce Lisa , Hocking Matthew C. , Schwartz Lisa A. , Alderfer Melissa A. , Kazak Anne E. , Barakat Lamia P.
Published: June 2016

Background

Reports of acceptability of psychosocial screening are limited, and the utility of screening in identifying risk factors for health‐related quality of life (HRQL) of children with cancer has not been established. This study aimed to assess acceptability of screening for parents and evaluate associations between family risk factors and patient HRQL in the first year post‐diagnosis.

Procedure

Sixty‐seven parents of children with cancer completed the Psychosocial Assessment Tool (family risk), Distress Thermometer (caregiver distress), Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Checklist‐Civilian 6 (caregiver traumatic stress), PedsQL 4.0 (parent‐proxy report of patient HRQL) and four acceptability questions via a tablet (iPad).

Results

Patients (Mage = 9.5 SD = 5.5 years) were equally distributed across major pediatric cancer diagnoses. The majority of parents endorsed electronic screening as acceptable (70%–97%). Patient gender, diagnosis, intensity of treatment and time since diagnosis were not significantly correlated with family risk, caregiver distress, traumatic stress, or patient HRQL. The full regression model predicting total HRQL was significant (R2 = .42, F(4,64) = 10.7, p = .000). Age (older) was a significant covariate, family risk and caregiver distress were significant independent predictors of poorer total HRQL. The full regression models for physical and psychosocial HRQL were significant; age and caregiver distress were independent predictors of physical HRQL, and age and family risk were independent predictors of psychosocial HRQL.

Conclusions

Screening is acceptable for families and important for identifying risk factors associated with poorer patient HRQL during childhood cancer treatment. Targeted interventions addressing family resource needs as well as parent distress identified through screening may be effective in promoting patient HRQL. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Amphiphilic Core–Shell Nanocomposite Particles for Enhanced Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Chen Lianghui , Niu Dechao , Lee Cheng Hao , Yao Yuan , Lui Ki , Ho Kin Man , Li Pei
Published: June 2016

A scalable synthesis of magnetic core–shell nanocomposite particles, acting as a novel class of magnetic resonance (MR) contrast agents, has been developed. Each nanocomposite particle consists of a biocompatible chitosan shell and a poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) core where multiple aggregated γ‐Fe2O3 nanoparticles are confined within the hydrophobic core. Properties of the nanocomposite particles including their chemical structure, particle size, size distribution, and morphology, as well as crystallinity of the magnetic nanoparticles and magnetic properties were systematically characterized. Their potential application as an MR contrast agent has been evaluated. Results show that the nanocomposite particles have good stability in biological media and very low cytotoxicity in both L929 mouse fibroblasts (normal cells) and HeLa cells (cervical cancer cells). They also exhibited excellent MR imaging performance with a T2 relaxivity of up to 364 mMFe−1 s−1. An in vivo MR test performed on a naked mouse bearing breast tumor indicates that the nanocomposite particles can localize in both normal liver and tumor tissues. These results suggest that the magnetic core–shell nanocomposite particles are an efficient, inexpensive and safe T2‐weighted MR contrast agent for both liver and tumor MR imaging in cancer therapy.
Behavioral effects of sublethal exposure to a combination of β‐cyfluthrin and imidacloprid in the bed bug, Cimex lectularius L.
Authors: Crawley Sydney E , Kowles Katelyn A , Gordon Jennifer R , Potter Michael F , Haynes Kenneth F
Published: June 2016

BACKGROUND

Bed bugs (Cimex lectularius) are blood‐feeding insect pests with public health relevance. Their rapid evolution of resistance to pyrethroids has prompted a shift to combination products that include both a pyrethroid and neonicotinoid insecticide. Insecticides have both a direct impact on mortality and an indirect effect on behavior. Thus, we assessed the sublethal effects of a widely used combination product containing β‐cyfluthrin (a pyrethroid) and imidacloprid (a neonicotinoid), as unexpected behavioral changes after exposure have been known to affect efficacy of insecticides.

RESULTS

We found that bed bugs exposed to sublethal doses of a combination product containing β‐cyfluthrin and imidacloprid did not feed as effectively as untreated bugs. Their locomotion behavior was also reduced. However, aggregation in response to the presence of conspecific harborages was not affected by sublethal exposure.

CONCLUSION

Bed bugs exhibit behavioral changes after sublethal exposure to a combination product that could affect pest management choices and outcomes. A reduction in host‐finding efficiency and feeding could complement the lethal effects of the insecticide. Alternatively, reduced locomotion following exposure could limit ongoing contact with insecticide deposits. However, an overall reduction in movement indicates that treatments are unlikely to cause dispersal of bugs to adjacent dwellings. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Modification of internal barrier in hydrogen‐terminated heavily phosphorus‐doped diamond for field emission
Authors: Masuzawa Tomoaki , Kudo Yuki , Mimura Hidenori , Neo Yoichiro , Okano Ken , Yamada Takatoshi
Published: June 2016

In this article, a field‐induced electron emission from hydrogen (H)‐terminated surface of heavily phosphorus (P)‐doped diamond is discussed based on the barrier lowering model. Ultraviolet photoelectron spectroscopy suggested that an upward band bending of 1.45 eV existed at the surface of the diamond. A field emission characteristic as a function of the distance between an anode and diamond was measured to evaluate an average electric field in the vacuum. The barrier lowering model was introduced to estimate the reduction of the internal barrier due to the electric field at the diamond surface. The barrier lowering effect was confirmed from energies of emitted electrons, measured by combined ultraviolet photoelectron spectroscopy/field‐induced electron spectroscopy (UPS/FES). As a result, it was shown that the electron emission from n‐type diamond having NEA surface could be modulated by controlling a local electric field.
Magnetoelastic auxetic‐like behavior in Galfenol: Experimental data and simulations
Authors: Raghunath Ganesh , Flatau Alison B. , Wang Hui , Wu Ruqian
Published: June 2016

Iron–gallium alloy (galfenol) is a body centered cubic (BCC) magnetostrictive alloy that, like many other BCC metals, is auxetic in the ⟨110⟩{100} directions. For compositions of 12–33 at.% gallium, Poisson ratio (ν) values as low as −0.7 are observed along these directions in response to a uniaxial elastic force (tensile tests, resonant ultrasound spectroscopy, etc.). In 2014, Raghunath and Flatau first reported that galfenol also exhibits positive strain in both these directions when the uniaxial force applied along the ⟨110⟩{100} directions is provided solely by a magnetic field, i.e., with no external mechanical/elastic force or stress being applied to the alloy [Raghunath and Flatau, IEEE Trans. Magn.50(11), 1–4 (2014)]. The observed response is a result of the intrinsic, atomic‐scale, bi‐directionally coupled magnetoelastic properties of these alloys. In this paper, we advance the understanding of the intrinsic atomic‐scale magnetoelastic coupling of the alloy that leads to the observed magnetoelastic auxetic‐like behavior by presenting simulations developed based on density functional theory, which we show match the experimental findings and energy‐based simulations. The elastic anisotropy and the electronic mechanisms that lead to magnetoelastic auxetic‐like behavior in galfenol are discussed.
Nucleation and solid–liquid interfacial energy of Li nanoparticles: A molecular dynamics study
Authors: Yang Jianyu , Hu Wangyu
Published: June 2016

The nucleation and growth processes of lithium nanoparticles are simulated by molecular dynamics and embedded atom method. A critical temperature dividing, shrinking, or growing of lithium nanoparticles is determined. The linear relationship between the depression of the melting point of the lithium nanoparticle and the reciprocal of the critical nuclei is determined when the critical nuclei are between 1.0 and 2.0 nm. Solid–liquid interfacial energies of lithium nanoparticles are estimated from the Gibbs–Thomson effect. These results are consistent with the experimental values of other metals.
Thermodynamic stability of mixed Pb:Sn methyl‐ammonium halide perovskites
Authors: Korshunova Ksenia , Winterfeld Lars , Beenken Wichard J. D. , Runge Erich
Published: June 2016

Using density functional theory, we investigate systematically mixed perovskites, where is , and is , , or . Ab initio calculations of the orthorhombic, tetragonal, and cubic perovskite phases show that the substitution of lead by tin has a much weaker influence on both structure and cohesive energies than the substitution of the halogen. The thermodynamic stability of the mixtures at finite, non‐zero temperatures is studied within the regular solution model. We predict that it will be possible to create mixtures at any temperature. Our results imply that mixing is unlikely for the low‐temperature phase of bromide and chloride compounds, where instead local clusters are more likely to form. We further predict that in the high‐temperature cubic phase, Pb and Sn compounds will mix for both and due to the entropy contribution to the Helmholtz free energy.
Determination of the high pressure phases of CaWO4 by CALYPSO and X‐ray diffraction studies
Authors: Wang Li , Ke Feng , Li Yuwei , Wang Qinglin , Liu Cailong , Yan Jiejuan , Li Hui , Han Yonghao , Ma Yanzhang , Gao Chunxiao
Published: June 2016

Theoretical and experimental methods have been conducted to study the high‐pressure structures of CaWO4, which have never been definitely determined during the past decades. By using the CALYPSO method, in addition to the previously known tetragonal scheelite structure (I41/a), monoclinic fergusonite structure (I2/a), and the orthorhombic structure (Cmca) predicted by previous works, we have found two other new phases of CaWO4 at higher pressure: monoclinic P21/c and P21/m structures. Although the P21/c structure has the lowest energy (above 26.0 GPa), synchrotron‐radiation‐based X‐ray diffraction measurements show that only the P21/m structure stably exists above 38.0 GPa. The kinetical hindrance of P21/c structure formation in the experiment has been attributed to its larger W‐O coordination number than that of the P21/m structure at high pressure.
Partial auxeticity induced by nanoslits in the Yukawa crystal
Authors: Pigłowski Paweł M. , Wojciechowski Krzysztof W. , Tretiakov Konstantin V.
Published: June 2016

Monte Carlo simulations in the isobaric–isothermal ensemble with variable shape of the periodic box were used to investigate Poisson's ratios of the hard‐core repulsive Yukawa crystals with periodically distributed nanoslits. Each nanoslit, oriented perpendicularly to the crystallographic direction [010], was filled by a monolayer of hard spheres. It is shown that presence of the nanoslits leads to negative Poisson's ratio, as low as –0.57(2), in the [100][001]‐direction. This direction is not auxetic in the pure Yukawa crystal, i.e. shows positive Poisson's ratio, equal to 0.43(1).
CoFe2O4–ZnO nanoparticles for rapid microwave‐assisted tryptic digestion of phosphoprotein and phosphopeptide analysis by matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry
Authors: Nawaz Mohd Imtiaz , Hasan Nazim , Wu Hui‐Fen
Published: June 2016

Rationale

Phosphorylation is a post‐translational modification of proteins that plays very important role in a large number of biological processes. However, despite recent advancements in phosphoproteome research, large‐scale detection and characterization of phosphopeptides by mass spectrometry (MS) is still a challenging task due to the low abundance of phosphopeptides and sub‐stoichiometric nature of phosphorylation sites. On‐particle microwave‐assisted trypsin digestion of phosphoproteins and enrichment of phosphopeptides is an effective method for identification/characterization of phosphopeptides. Magnetic nanoparticles typically can absorb microwave radiation and generate heat in order to resolve complex phosphproteins and to enhance the digestion rate and capture the phosphopeptides on their modified surfaces.

Methods

In this study, we used a cheap and efficient method for rapid microwave‐assisted tryptic digestion of phosphoproteins and simultaneous enrichment of phosphopeptides using CoFe2O4‐ZnO magnetic nanoparticles. Using this technique, the digestion time of phosphoproteins can be reduced and the phosphopeptides can be quickly analyzed by matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (MALDI‐TOFMS). For the first time, we have applied CoFe2O4‐ZnO magnetic nanoparticles for enrichment of phosphopeptides from standard phosphoproteins (β‐casein and ovalbumin), complex samples (human serum and egg white) and a protein mixture of β‐casein and BSA (1:100).

Results

Our results demonstrate that the capture efficiency of CoFe2O4‐ZnO nanoparticles for β‐casein and ovalbumin in MALDI‐TOFMS is very high (detection limits 0.2 fmol and 20 fmol, respectively). The CoFe2O4‐ZnO nanoparticles have high affinity for phosphopeptide enrichment for β‐casein in complex mixtures with BSA at 1:10 and 1:100 molar ratios in the microwave within 30 s.

Conclusions

Compared with other reported magnetic nanoparticles, the CoFe2O4‐ZnO nanoparticles are easy to prepare and handle, and can save time in the phosphopeptide enrichment procedure, making these nanoparticle a good choice for highly sensitive phosphopeptide enrichment. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Nitenpyram degradation in finished drinking water
Authors: Noestheden Matthew , Roberts Simon , Hao Chunyan
Published: June 2016

Rationale

Neonicotinoid pesticides and their metabolites have been indicated as contributing factors in the decline of honey bee colonies. A thorough understanding of neonicotinoid toxicity requires knowledge of their metabolites and environmental breakdown products. This work investigated the rapid degradation of the neonicotinoid nitenpyram in finished drinking water.

Methods

Nitenpyram reaction products were characterized using liquid chromatography/quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (LC/QTOFMS). A software algorithm that compared degraded and control samples was utilized to facilitate efficient data reduction. Fragmentation pathways for six reaction products and nitenpyram were proposed using predictive software and manual product ion analysis.

Results

This study showed that nitenpyram degradation in unpreserved finished drinking water was likely the result of oxidation, hydrolysis and reaction with Cl2. Structures for six nitenpyram reaction products were proposed that suggest the C9/C11 olefin as the key reactive site.

Conclusions

Similarities between the identified nitenpyram reaction products and imidacloprid metabolites highlight the importance of this study, as the toxicity of neonicotinoids to pollinators has been linked to their metabolites. Based on the proposed reaction mechanisms, the identified nitenpyram reaction products in finished drinking water could also be present in the environment and water treatment facilities. As such, identifying these degradation products will aid in evaluating the environmental impact of neonicotinoid pesticides. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The oxygen isotope composition of San Carlos olivine on the VSMOW2‐SLAP2 scale
Authors: Pack Andreas , Tanaka Ryoji , Hering Markus , Sengupta Sukanya , Peters Stefan , Nakamura Eizo
Published: June 2016

Rationale

The precise determination of Δ'17O values in terrestrial material is becoming increasingly important to understand the mass‐dependent fractionation processes that cause variations in oxygen isotope ratios. San Carlos olivine is widely used as the reference material for oxygen isotope measurements of terrestrial and extraterrestrial materials. We report new Δ'17O values for San Carlos olivine that were independently determined in two different laboratories (Geoscience Center [GZG], University of Göttingen) and Institute for Study of the Earth's Interior [ISEI], Okayama University, Misasa) in direct comparison with VSMOW2 and SLAP2 water standards.

Methods

The δ17O and δ18O values of VSMOW2, SLAP2, GISP, and San Carlos olivine were determined relative to reference gas. In both laboratories, water and San Carlos olivine samples were prepared by BrF5 fluorination. In both laboratories, the O2 released from water and olivine samples was passed through the same purification system and measured using the same mass spectrometer relative to the same reference gas.

Results

In both laboratories, the δ17OVSMOW2 and δ18OVSMOW2 scales were slightly compressed with respect to the recommended composition of VSMOW2 and SLAP2. The new Δ'17O0.528 value (calculated from the VSMOW2‐SLAP2 scaled δ values) of San Carlos olivine from GZG was −36 ± 9 ppm and, from ISEI, a value of −40 ± 7 ppm (1σ standard deviation) was determined. These values are ~50 ppm higher than previously reported from the same laboratories. Possible causes for the observed discrepancies are discussed.

Conclusions

The results of this study in comparison with previous data from the same laboratories demonstrated that for high accuracy determination of Δ'17O values: (i) calibration of the reference gas relative to O2 released from primary standards (VSMOW2, SLAP2) in the same laboratory is highly recommended, (ii) non‐linearity of the mass spectrometer may not only affect δ17O and δ18O values but also Δ'17O values, and (iii) the VSMOW2‐SLAP2 scaling should also be applied to analyses of rocks and minerals. Studies that are concerned with small differences in Δ'17O at similar δ18O values, however, are not affected by non‐linearity of the mass spectrometer. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A systematic analysis strategy for accurate detection of anthocyanin pigments in red wines
Authors: Li Si‐Yu , He Fei , Zhu Bao‐Qing , Xing Ran‐Ran , Reeves Malcolm J. , Duan Chang‐Qing
Published: June 2016

Rationale

To develop a reliable and accurate method for the identification of anthocyanins and their subsequent derivatives formed during red grape fermentation and wine maturation.

Methods

By using a Poroshell 120 EC‐C18 column in a high‐performance liquid chromatography/triple‐quadrupole tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC/QqQ‐MS/MS) system, combined with multiple reaction monitoring (MRM), it was possible to establish and validate a method for the determination of anthocyanin and a range of complex reaction products. A selected range of six 3‐O‐glucosidic anthocyanins were used as standards. A database was established from these results. Then various red wines were examined and quantified by this method.

Results

With the range of accuracy and precision being 86.97–111.39% and 0.09–4.32%, respectively, the HPLC/QqQ‐MS/MS method was found to be a reliable method for anthocyanin detection. By using this HPLC/QqQ‐MS/MS method combined with the inclusive database, accurate identification of 95 anthocyanin compounds of different families from various wine samples was systematically achieved in 29 min.

Conclusions

By combining this analytical system with an inclusive database, it was possible to determine a wide range of anthocyanins and related complex derivatives for the first time. We consider that it should be possible to extend this method further to include more complex anthocyanins, and to other complex compounds. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Ion trap mass spectrometry of surfactins produced by Bacillus subtilis SZMC 6179J reveals novel fragmentation features of cyclic lipopeptides
Authors: Bóka Bettina , Manczinger László , Kecskeméti Anita , Chandrasekaran Muthusamy , Kadaikunnan Shine , Alharbi Naiyf S. , Vágvölgyi Csaba , Szekeres András
Published: June 2016

Rationale

Surfactins are mixtures of cyclic lipopeptides consisting of variants of a heptapeptide and a linked β‐hydroxy fatty acid with various chain lengths of 13–15 carbon atoms. A lactone bridge between the β‐hydroxy functional group of the fatty acid and the carboxy terminal functional component of the peptide chain form their cyclic structures. Such lipopeptides, produced mainly by Bacillus species, possess several remarkable biological effects such as antitumor and antimicrobial activities, some of which are highly promising for utilization in plant disease biocontrol. The strain Bacillus subtilis SZMC 6179J was previously shown to exert significant antifungal properties against various phytopathogenic filamentous fungi; therefore, we characterized the structural features of the surfactins produced by this strain in order to explore the origin of the observed antagonistic effects of this potential biocontrol organism.

Methods

Bacillus subtilis SZMC 6179J was used to produce surfactins, which were characterized by high‐performance liquid chromatography/electrospray ionisation ion trap mass spectrometry (HPLC/ESI‐ITMS) techniques after precipitation and extraction steps.

Results

The 26 isoforms separated and identified represent three types of known surfactin variants and a fourth, previously unknown group characterised by the replacement of the leucine residue by valine in position 2. The relative amounts of this newly identified surfactin group were below 1%, and their cyclic structures were closed by C13–C15 hydroxy fatty acids. The structural assessment of the isoforms by MS2 measurements led to the characterisation and description of a new fragmentation mechanism of surfactins.

Conclusions

The detected new natural lipoheptapeptide compounds with modified structures have significant potential for biotechnological and biocontrol applications. The complementary ITMS2 data as well as the described internal fragmentation mechanism obtained from the sodiated surfactin molecules may further facilitate the structural elucidation of cyclic lipopeptides in the future. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
How long is enough: CO2‐H2O equilibration for δ18O analysis in saline formation waters?
Authors: Lu Feng H.
Published: June 2016

Rationale

The equilibration of H2‐H2O and CO2‐H2O is a commonly used method for δ2H and δ18O analyses in water. Problems with these analyses of formation water include the presence of petroleum contaminants and the slow exchange of oxygen isotopes between CO2 gas and the saline waters collected from petroleum exploration and production wells. Therefore, it is crucial to understand whether isotopic equilibrium between water and CO2 has been reached, how long it takes, and how to deal with contaminants. This study investigates how long it takes to reach isotopic equilibrium between gas and hypersaline brine, and how to deal with petroleum‐contaminated formation water, in order to produce good quality δ2H and δ18O data.

Methods

The δ2H and δ18O values of six natural waters with a variety of salinities were determined by isotope ratio mass spectrometry after different periods of H2 and CO2 equilibration with the samples. Hydrocarbon and non‐hydrocarbon gases present in formation brines were pre‐treated prior to the H2‐ and CO2‐H2O interaction to minimize their interference with the isotope analyses.

Results

Water samples with different salinities required different times for the oxygen isotopes to reach equilibrium. Salinity does not affect the equilibration of H2 with saline brines. Hydrocarbon gases present in formation waters can interfere with the isotope analysis, but this can be minimized with pre‐analysis treatment.

Conclusions

The described procedures should be applied for stable hydrogen and oxygen isotope analyses in waters with high salinities and petroleum contaminants. In particular, waters collected from petroleum exploration and production wells, and from evaporative environments, should go through these procedures. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of HCl pretreatment, drying, and storage on the stable isotope ratios of soil and sediment samples
Authors: Kim Min‐Seob , Lee Won‐Seok , Suresh Kumar K. , Shin Kyung‐Hoon , Robarge Wayne , Kim Minseok , Lee Sang Ryong
Published: June 2016

Rationale

Stable isotope (δ13C, δ15N, δ34S values) analysis has become increasingly important for tracing contaminant sources in environments. Pretreatment of environmental samples allows accurate analysis of stable isotope ratios. The pretreatment of a sample and its subsequent preservation could either contaminate or create experimental artifacts affecting the validity of the resulting C/N ratios and the elemental isotopic contents of a sample.

Methods

The effects of acid pretreatment (0.1, 0.5, 1, 2, 5, 13 M HCl) and exposure period (2, 6, 12, 24, and 48 h) on the stable isotopic ratios of marine sediment (MS), river sediment (RS) and terrestrial soil (TS) samples were evaluated. The effects of storage temperatures (–80, –20 and 2°C), storage duration (1 week, 1 to 12 months) and washing steps (1, 2, 3, 5, 7 or 12 times) on the stable isotopic ratios were also considered. The %C, %N and %S, as well as the δ13C, δ15N, and δ34S values, of each sample were measured using continuous flow Elemental Analyzer/Isotope Ratio Mass Spectrometry (EA/IRMS).

Results

The HCl treatment was applicable for δ13C analysis. However, the acid concentration and duration of exposure that brought about total removal of carbonate for the three sample types varied; e.g. the TS sample required stronger acid and a shorter exposure time. Storage time also had an effect: the δ13C values were lower and the δ15N and δ34S values higher after storage for 300 days.

Conclusions

HCl pretreatment effectively eliminates carbonates and thereby helps δ13C analysis of the organic fraction. HCl pretreatment is not recommended for δ15N and δ34S analysis. Freeze‐drying of samples is recommended rather than oven drying. A temperature‐dependent change in the isotopic ratios of long‐term stored samples was observed during this study; therefore, relatively short‐term storage (–80°C) of freeze‐dried samples is preferable. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Admittance Control for Robotic Loading: Design and Experiments with a 1‐Tonne Loader and a 14‐Tonne Load‐Haul‐Dump Machine
Authors: Dobson Andrew A. , Marshall Joshua A. , Larsson Johan
Published: June 2016

This paper describes the design, tuning, and extensive field testing of an admittance‐based autonomous loading controller (ALC) for robotic excavation. Several iterations of the ALC were tuned and tested in fragmented rock piles—similar to those found in operating mines—by using both a robotic 1‐tonne capacity Kubota R520S diesel‐hydraulic surface loader and a 14‐tonne capacity Atlas Copco ST14 underground load‐haul‐dump (LHD) machine. On the R520S loader, the ALC increased payload by 18% with greater consistency, although with more energy expended and longer dig times when compared with digging at maximum actuator velocity. On the ST14 LHD, the ALC took 61% less time to load 39% more payload when compared to a single manual operator. The manual operator made 28 dig attempts by using three different digging strategies, and had one failed dig. The tuned ALC made 26 dig attempts at 10 and 11 MN target force levels. All 10 11 MN digs succeeded while 6 of the 16 10 MN digs failed. The results presented in this paper suggest that the admittance‐based ALC is more productive and consistent than manual operators, but that care should be taken when detecting entry into the rock pile.
Religion, Sustainable Development and Policy: Principles to Practice
Authors: Narayanan Yamini
Published: June 2016

The nexus between religion and development is now well recognized in scholarship but the implications for development policies are relatively unexplored. The challenge with analysing religion as a policy construct is to ensure that its rich anthropological dimensions are not lost, but rather that these inform the conception and implementation of development planning, especially in diverse, multireligious societies. The aim of this special issue is to unpack the complex anthropological, sociological and even theological dimensions of religion that can enable development policymakers to identify the ways in which religion shapes the society, the environment and the economy. Therein also lie the opportunities to articulate policies that are truly responsive to serious structural issues of inequalities and oppressions. The authors address five foci that are central to sustainable development policymaking – urbanization and spatial equality; gender justice; environment and human/animal tensions; economic growth; and postsecularity and governance. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment.
Religion and Sustainable Urban Planning: ‘If you can't count it, or won't count it, it doesn't count’
Authors: Greed Clara
Published: June 2016

Sustainability objectives are central to modern urban planning. Originally, sustainability had three components, environmental sustainability, economic well‐being and social equality: planet, prosperity and people. However, the environmental aspects of sustainability have tended to predominate. This leaves little space for social issues and aspatial (non‐physical) factors such as belief and religion. It is argued, with reference to UK‐related research, that religion has major spatial planning implications for all aspects and levels of urban policy. Neglecting religion's existence results in an incomplete planning agenda, undermining equality and diversity objectives. The implications of this gap are discussed with reference to the environmental, economic and social components of sustainability policy. There is little recognition of the contribution of religion to cities: rather, a negative mentality predominates amongst planners. Ways of changing the planners’ understanding and mainstreaming religion into planning are discussed, drawing on methods used to integrate gender into planning. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment.
Sustainable Governance in a Postsecular Public Sphere: Re‐assessing the Role of Religion as a Cosmopolitan Policy Actor in a Diverse and Globalized Age
Authors: Baker Chris
Published: June 2016

This article nuances debates about the role and contribution of religion to sustainable forms of governance in respect of current policy and political debates. It lays out some of the definitional terms of reference around governance and sustainable development. It then locates these debates within a series of wider, interdisciplinary frameworks (primarily political philosophy, sociology, political geography and public theology), including concepts such as cosmopolitanism, the postsecular, progressive localism and spiritual and social capital. These concepts recognize the changing boundaries between the religious and secular in the public sphere. The article locates some of these theoretical discourses within two case studies of performative cosmopolitan religious governance and analyses their methodology and impact within the terms of governance and sustainable development. It concludes that performative spaces of religiously framed welfare provision and civic engagement potentially offer important pointers as to principles and structures of what sustainable governance looks like in complex, diverse and increasingly fragmented polities and localities. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment
A Simple Route to Reduced Graphene Oxide‐Draped Nanocomposites with Markedly Enhanced Visible‐Light Photocatalytic Performance
Authors: Liu Xueqin , Yang Jianbo , Zhao Wen , Wang Yang , Li Zhen , Lin Zhiqun
Published: June 2016

Nanocomposites (denoted RGO/ZnONRA) comprising reduced graphene oxide (RGO) draped over the surface of zinc oxide nanorod array (ZnONRA) were produced via a simple low‐temperature route, dispensing with the need for hydrothermal growth, electrochemical deposition or other complex treatments. The amount of deposited RGO can be readily tuned by controlling the concentration of graphene oxide (GO). Interestingly, the addition of Sn2+ not only enables the reduction of GO, but also functions as a bridge that connects the resulting RGO and ZnONRA. Remarkably, the incorporation of RGO improves the visible‐light absorption and reduces the bandgap of ZnO, thereby leading to the markedly improved visible‐light photocatalytic performance. Moreover, RGO/ZnONRA nanocomposites exhibit a superior stability as a result of the surface protection of ZnONRA by RGO. The mechanism on the improved photocatalytic performance based on the cophotosensitizations under the visible‐light irradiation has been proposed. This simple yet effective route to the RGO‐decorated semiconductor nanocomposites renders the better visible‐light utilization, which may offer great potential for use in photocatalytic degradation of organic pollutants, solar cells, and optoelectronic materials and devices.
Single‐Walled Carbon Nanotube Film Supported Nanofiltration Membrane with a Nearly 10 nm Thick Polyamide Selective Layer for High‐Flux and High‐Rejection Desalination
Authors: Zhu Yuzhang , Xie Wei , Gao Shoujian , Zhang Feng , Zhang Wenbin , Liu Zhaoyang , Jin Jian
Published: June 2016

Fabricating nanofiltration (NF) membranes with high permeating flux and simultaneous high rejection rate for desalination is rather significant and highly desired. A new avenue is reported in this work to design NF membrane by using polydopamine wrapped single‐walled carbon nanotube (PD/SWCNTs) ultrathin film as support layer instead of the use of traditional polymer‐based underlying layers. Thanks to the high porosity, smooth surface, and more importantly optimal hydrophilic surface of PD/SWCNTs film, a defect‐free polyamide selective layer for NF membrane with thickness of as thin as 12 nm is achieved. The obtained NF membrane exhibits an extremely high performance with a permeating flux of 32 L m−2 h−1 bar−1 and a rejection rate of 95.9% to divalent ions. This value is two to five times higher than the traditional NF membranes with similar rejection rate.
Sternal bone marrow derived equine multipotent mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs): investigations considering the sampling site and the use of different culture media
Authors: Eydt Carina , Geburek Florian , Schröck Carmen , Hambruch Nina , Rohn Karl , Pfarrer Christiane , Staszyk Carsten
Published: June 2016

Aspiration of equine sternal bone marrow is required for the cultivation of bone marrow‐derived multipotent mesenchymal stromal cells (BM‐MSCs) for regenerative therapies. For bone marrow aspiration as well as for MSC cultivation, there is a need to optimize techniques and protocols to enhance MSC harvest at minimized culture times. In a comparative study bone marrow aspirates from sternebra 4 and 5 were collected at two different positions within the sternebrae, either from 10 mm or from 30 mm dorsal from the ventral margin of the sternebrae. Accuracy of the puncture depth was confirmed by ultrasonography and computed tomography. Isolated MSCs were cultivated using media supplemented with three alternative sera, i.e. fetal calf serum, standardized horse serum and autologous serum. Due to morphological characteristics (spherical shape, only thin layer of hyaline cartilage at the ventral site, reliable bone marrow aspiration from only 10 mm intraosseous depth), sternebra 5 appeared most suitable for bone marrow aspiration. Cultivation and expansion of BM‐MSCs was most efficient using fetal calf serum.
Solvent‐Controlled Construction of Two 3D Manganese(II) Coordination Polymers Based on Flexible Tripodal Multicarboxylate Linker and Rod‐Shaped SBUs
Authors: Chen Min , Hu Min , Zhao Hui , Tian Jia‐Yue , Liu Chun‐Sen
Published: June 2016

To further explore the coordination possibilities of the flexible tripodal ligand, 4,4′,4′′‐(benzene‐1,3,5‐triyl‐tris(oxy))tribenzoic acid (H3BTTB), two solvent‐controlled three‐dimensional (3D) manganese(II) coordination polymers, [Mn3(BTTB)2(H2O)4](H2O)2 (1) and [Mn3(BTTB)2(DMF)2](DMF)2 (2), were synthesized and characterized. Single crystal X‐ray diffraction analysis indicates that in the MnII complexes the BTTB ligands exhibit two coordination modes, which have not been reported previously. Complexes 1 and 2 involve different one‐dimensional (1D) rod‐shaped metal–carboxylate secondary building units (SBUs). The 1D SBUs are further extended to afford two different three‐dimensional (3D) frameworks with similar flu topology via linkage of the BTTB ligands. The results demonstrate that the reaction solvent as well as conformation and coordination mode of BTTB ligands play key roles on the formation of the final framework structures. Additionally, their luminescent properties were investigated.
Subdifferential‐based implicit return‐mapping operators in computational plasticity
Authors: Sysala Stanislav , Cermak Martin , Koudelka Tomáš , Kruis Jaroslav , Zeman Jan , Blaheta Radim
Published: June 2016

In this paper we explore a numerical solution to elastoplastic constitutive initial value problems. An improved form of the implicit return‐mapping scheme for nonsmooth yield surfaces is proposed that systematically builds upon a subdifferential formulation of the flow rule. The main advantage of this approach is that the treatment of singular points – apices or edges at which the flow direction is multivalued – only involves a uniquely defined set of non‐linear equations, similarly to smooth yield surfaces. This paper focuses on isotropic models containing: a) yield surfaces with one or two apices (singular points) on the hydrostatic axis, b) plastic pseudo‐potentials that are independent of the Lode angle, and c) possibly nonlinear isotropic hardening. We show that for some models the improved integration scheme also enables us to a priori decide about a type of the return and to investigate the existence, uniqueness, and semismoothness of discretized constitutive operators. The semismooth Newton method is also introduced for solving the incremental boundary‐value problems. The paper contains numerical examples related to slope stability with publicly available Matlab implementations.
Optimization of Rhamnolipid Production by P. aeruginosa Isolate P6
Authors: El‐Housseiny Ghadir Saeed , Aboulwafa Mohammad Mabrouk , Aboshanab Khaled Anwer , Hassouna Nadia Abdel Haleim
Published: June 2016

Rhamnolipids are interesting microbial surfactants having great industrial importance. However, the main obstacles towards an economic production of rhamnolipids are low productivity and high raw‐material costs. Therefore, this study aimed at optimization of the culture media as well as culture conditions using response surface methodology for maximum rhamnolipid production by Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolate P6, a promising rhamnolipid‐producing isolate. The optimum medium for maximum rhamnolipid production was found to be a mineral salts medium with glycerol 2 % v/v as the carbon source. The optimum cultivation conditions using response surface methodology were found to be an incubation temperature of 30 °C, an agitation rate of 250 rpm, an inoculum size of 5 % v/v and unlike most studies, an initial pH of 7.5. The resulting model predicted data points that corresponded well to the experimental values. Optimization resulted in a threefold increase in rhamnolipid production reaching 7.54 g/L. The data are potentially useful for further industrial exploitation of rhamnolipid production by the studied isolate.
Multi-wavelength narrow linewidth fiber laser based on distributed feedback fiber lasers
Authors: Lv Jingsheng , Qi Haifeng , Song Zhiqiang , Guo Jian , Ni Jiasheng , Wang Chang , Peng Gangding
Published: June 2016

A narrow linewidth laser configuration based on distributed feedback fiber lasers (DFB-FL) with eight wavelengths in the international telecommunication union (ITU) grid is presented and realized. In this laser configuration, eight phase-shifted gratings in series are bidirectionally pumped by two 980-nm laser diodes (LDs). The final laser output with over 10-mW power for each wavelength can be obtained, and the maximum power difference within eight wavelengths is 1.2 dB. The laser configuration with multiple wavelengths and uniform power outputs can be very useful in large scaled optical fiber hydrophone fields.
Neighborhood income inequality, social capital and emotional distress among adolescents: A population‐based study
Authors: Vilhjalmsdottir Arndis , Gardarsdottir Ragna B. , Bernburg Jon Gunnar , Sigfusdottir Inga Dora
Published: June 2016

Theory holds that income inequality may harm adolescent mental health by reducing social capital within neighborhood communities. However, research on this topic has been very limited. We use multilevel data on 102 public schools and 5958 adolescents in Iceland (15 and 16 years old) to examine whether income inequality within neighborhoods is associated with emotional distress in adolescents. Moreover, we test whether indicators of social capital, including social trust and embeddedness in neighborhood social networks, mediate this contextual effect. The findings show that neighborhood income inequality positively influences emotional distress of individual adolescents, net of their personal household situations and social relations. However, although the indicators of social capital negatively influence emotional distress, they do not mediate the contextual effect of neighborhood income inequality. The study illustrates the role of economic disparities in adolescent mental health, but calls for more research on the underlying social and social‐psychological mechanisms.
Attentional Bias for Pain and Sex, and Automatic Appraisals of Sexual Penetration: Differential Patterns in Dyspareunia vs Vaginismus?
Authors: Melles Reinhilde J. , Dewitte Marieke D. , ter Kuile Moniek M. , Peters Madelon M.L. , de Jong Peter J.
Published: June 2016

Introduction

Current information processing models propose that heightened attention bias for sex-related threats (eg, pain) and lowered automatic incentive processes (“wanting”) may play an important role in the impairment of sexual arousal and the development of sexual dysfunctions such as genitopelvic pain/penetration disorder (GPPPD). Differential threat and incentive processing may also help explain the stronger persistence of coital avoidance in women with vaginismus compared to women with dyspareunia.

Aims

As the first aim, we tested if women with GPPPD show (1) heightened attention for pain and sex, and (2) heightened threat and lower incentive associations with sexual penetration. Second, we examined whether the stronger persistence of coital avoidance in vaginismus vs dyspareunia might be explained by a stronger attentional bias or more dysfunctional automatic threat/incentive associations.

Methods

Women with lifelong vaginismus (n = 37), dyspareunia (n = 29), and a no-symptoms comparison group (n = 51) completed a visual search task to assess attentional bias, and single target implicit-association tests to measure automatic sex-threat and sex-wanting associations.

Results

There were no group differences in attentional bias or automatic associations. Correlational analysis showed that slowed detection of sex stimuli and stronger automatic threat associations were related to lowered sexual arousal.

Conclusion

The findings do not corroborate the view that attentional bias for pain or sex contributes to coital pain, or that differences in coital avoidance may be explained by differences in attentional bias or automatic threat/incentive associations. However, the correlational findings are consistent with the view that automatic threat associations and impaired attention for sex stimuli may interfere with the generation of sexual arousal.
Study of EGNOS accuracy and integrity in eastern Poland
Authors: Grunwald G. , Bakuła M. , Ciećko A.
Published: June 2016

The ionosphere is one of the main factors affecting the accuracy and integrity of satellite-based augmentation system positioning systems. This paper presents the results of a 30-day study of the accuracy and integrity of the European Geostationary Navigation Overlay Service (EGNOS) conducted at the EPOD airport belonging to the Aeroclub of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, in northeastern Poland (the area until recently considered as the edge of EGNOS coverage). Analyses of the parameters characterising the accuracy and integrity of positioning were performed in three calculation variants/modes: with the original EGNOS ionospheric correction, with correction determined by means of Klobuchar algorithm, and finally with modified ionospheric coefficients developed by the CODE. Studies have shown clearly that the original EGNOS ionospheric model gives the best integrity and accuracy results allowing to use EGNOS for approach with vertical guidance procedures, while the Center for Orbit Determination in Europe and Klobuchar models could only be used for non-precision approach operations.
Respecting Human Rights in Conflict Regions: How to Avoid the ‘Conflict Spiral’
Authors: GRAF Andreas , IFF Andrea
Published: June 2016

This article introduces a novel way in which human rights due diligence can be ‘enhanced’ to respond to business and human rights challenges specific to conflict affected areas. It makes two key arguments. First, it claims that a crucial and often neglected factor for understanding human rights risks in conflict affected areas is that businesses face escalating and largely unpredictable human rights risks once they become involved in conflict. Second, the article shows how integrating aspects of the well-established method of conflict sensitive business practice into human rights due diligence can help companies address this challenge. For instance, companies should include a conflict analysis in human rights impact assessments and systematically identify and address their actual or potential impacts on conflict. This article provides support to a UN Working Group proposal for the integration of conflict sensitive business practices into human rights due diligence.