bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Molecular Engineering toward Pyrrolic N‐Rich M‐N4 (M = Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Cu) Single‐Atom Sites for Enhanced Heterogeneous Fenton‐Like Reaction
Authors: Chen Feng , Wu Xi‐Lin , Shi Chenyang , Lin Hongjun , Chen Jianrong , Shi Yanpeng , Wang Shaobin , Duan Xiaoguang
Published: January 2021

Heterogeneous Fenton‐like reactions (HFLR) are promising alternative strategies to address the inherent limitations of the classic Fenton systems. Herein, a facile and scale‐up approach for the synthesis of transition metal single‐atom sites (SA‐TM, TM = Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Cu) coordinated onto pyrrolic N‐rich g‐C3N4 (PN‐g‐C3N4) scaffold is developed. The regulated pyrrolic N‐rich SA‐TM catalytic sites exhibit excellent performances for HFLR. As a model of SA‐TM/PN‐g‐C3N4, SA‐Cr/PN‐g‐C3N4 is efficient for the catalytic oxidation of bisphenol A via HFLR under visible light with outstanding cyclic stability and wide effective pH range (3.0–11.0). The synergy of photocatalysis and single‐atom catalysis leads to accelerated production and separation of charge carriers as well as the cycling of Cr3+/Cr2+ couple, consequently boosting the performance in HFLR. Theoretical calculations indicate that the Cr(II)‐N4 sites with the metalloporphyrin‐like structure are more reactive than the doped Cr(II) sites in the g‐C3N4 matrix, which act as the peroxidase‐mimicking nanozyme for efficient and homolytic cleavage of peroxide OO in H2O2. This study expands the family of the iron‐free Fenton‐like systems and provides new strategies to the rational design and precise regulation of on‐demand multifunctional single‐atom catalysts for advanced water remediation.
Recent Progress in Electrocatalytic Methanation of CO2 at Ambient Conditions
Authors: Zhao Runbo , Ding Peng , Wei Peipei , Zhang Longcheng , Liu Qian , Luo Yonglan , Li Tingshuai , Lu Siyu , Shi Xifeng , Gao Shuyan , Asiri Abdullah M. , Wang Zhiming , Sun Xuping
Published: January 2021

Electrochemical CO2 reduction under ambient conditions is a promising pathway for conversion of CO2 into value‐added products. In recent years, great achievements have been obtained in the understanding the mechanism and development of efficient and selective catalysts for electrochemical CO2 reduction. However, the electrochemical CO2 reduction is still far from practical applications. Based on the gap between current research and practical applications, the state‐of‐the‐art of the theoretical and experiment investigations on different electrocatalysts for the electrocatalysis of CO2 to CH4 is systematically and constructively reviewed. First of all, strategies for enhancing the catalytic activity and selectivity of electrochemical reduction of CO2 to CH4 are also examined in this review. The modulated strategies mainly involve the following aspects: i) tuning the applied potentials, ii) morphology engineering, iii) crystallographic facets engineering, iv) defect engineering, v) alloying. Furthermore, the influence of the electrolyte on the activity and selectivity for electrocatalysis of CO2 to CH4 is also reviewed. This review will build a systematic understanding in the electrochemical CO2 reduction to CH4 and may help to provide new insight for designing and optimizing the catalysts and/or electrolyte.
Poly(2‐oxazoline)‐ and Poly(2‐oxazine)‐Based Self‐Assemblies, Polyplexes, and Drug Nanoformulations—An Update
Authors: Zahoranová Anna , Luxenhofer Robert
Published: January 2021

For many decades, poly(2‐oxazoline)s and poly(2‐oxazine)s, two closely related families of polymers, have led the life of a rather obscure research topic with only a few research groups world‐wide working with them. This has changed in the last five to ten years, presumably triggered significantly by very promising clinical trials of the first poly(2‐oxazoline)‐based drug conjugate. The huge chemical and structural toolbox poly(2‐oxazoline)s and poly(2‐oxazine)s has been extended very significantly in the last few years, but their potential still remains largely untapped. Here, specifically, the developments in macromolecular self‐assemblies and non‐covalent drug delivery systems such as polyplexes and drug nanoformulations based on poly(2‐oxazoline)s and poly(2‐oxazine)s are reviewed. This highly dynamic field benefits particularly from the extensive synthetic toolbox poly(2‐oxazoline)s and poly(2‐oxazine)s offer and also may have the largest potential for a further development. It is expected that the research dynamics will remain high in the next few years, particularly as more about the safety and therapeutic potential of poly(2‐oxazoline)s and poly(2‐oxazine)s is learned.
Particle Stiffness and Surface Topography Determine Macrophage‐Mediated Removal of Surface Adsorbed Particles
Authors: Lee Aaron , Septiadi Dedy , Taladriz‐Blanco Patricia , Almeida Mauro , Haeni Laetitia , Spuch‐Calvar Miguel , Abdussalam Wildan , Rothen‐Rutishauser Barbara , Petri‐Fink Alke
Published: January 2021

Cellular surface recognition and behavior are driven by a host of physical and chemical features which have been exploited to influence particle–cell interactions. Mechanical and topographical cues define the physical milieu which plays an important role in defining a range of cellular activities such as material recognition, adhesion, and migration through cytoskeletal organization and signaling. In order to elucidate the effect of local mechanical and topographical features generated by the adsorption of particles to an underlying surface on primary human monocyte‐derived macrophages (MDM), a series of poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) (pNIPAM) particles with differing rigidity are self‐assembled to form a defined particle‐decorated surface. Assembly of particle‐decorated surfaces is facilitated by modification of the underlying glass to possess a positive charge through functionalization using 3‐aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTES) or coating with poly(L‐lysine) (PLL). MDMs are noted to preferentially remove particles with higher degrees of crosslinking (stiffer) than those with lower degrees of crosslinking (softer). Alterations to the surface density of particles enabled a greater area of the particle‐decorated surface to be cleared. Uniquely, the impact of particle adsorption is evinced to have a direct impact on topographical recognition of the surface, suggesting a novel approach for controllably affecting cell‐surface recognition and response.
Challenges and Strategies toward Cathode Materials for Rechargeable Potassium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Liu Shude , Kang Ling , Jun Seong Chan
Published: January 2021

With increasing demand for grid‐scale energy storage, potassium‐ion batteries (PIBs) have emerged as promising complements or alternatives to commercial lithium‐ion batteries owing to the low cost, natural abundance of potassium resources, the low standard reduction potential of potassium, and fascinating K+ transport kinetics in the electrolyte. However, the low energy density and unstable cycle life of cathode materials hamper their practical application. Therefore, cathode materials with high capacities, high redox potentials, and good structural stability are required with the advancement toward next‐generation PIBs. To this end, understanding the structure‐dependent intercalation electrochemistry and recognizing the existing issues relating to cathode materials are indispensable prerequisites. This review summarizes the recent advances of PIB cathode materials, including metal hexacyanometalates, layered metal oxides, polyanionic frameworks, and organic compounds, with an emphasis on the structural advantages of the K+ intercalation reaction. Moreover, major current challenges with corresponding strategies for each category of cathode materials are highlighted. Finally, future research directions and perspectives are presented to accelerate the development of PIBs and facilitate commercial applications. It is believed that this review will provide practical guidance for researchers engaged in developing next‐generation advanced PIB cathode materials.
Controllable Capillary Assembly of Magnetic Ellipsoidal Janus Particles into Tunable Rings, Chains and Hexagonal Lattices
Authors: Xie Qingguang , Harting Jens
Published: January 2021

Colloidal assembly at fluid interfaces has a great potential for the bottom‐up fabrication of novel structured materials. However, challenges remain in realizing controllable and tunable assembly of particles into diverse structures. Herein, the capillary assembly of magnetic ellipsoidal Janus particles at a fluid–fluid interface is reported. Depending on their tilt angle, that is, the angle the particle main axis forms with the fluid interface, these particles deform the interface and generate capillary dipoles or hexapoles. Driven by capillary interactions, multiple particles thus assemble into chain‐, hexagonal‐lattice‐, and ring‐like structures, which can be actively controlled by applying an external magnetic field. A field‐strength phase diagram is predicted in which various structures are present as stable states. Owing to the diversity, controllability, and tunability of assembled structures, magnetic ellipsoidal Janus particles at fluid interfaces could therefore serve as versatile building blocks for novel materials.
Direct Distinguishing of Methanol over Ethanol with a Nanofilm‐Based Fluorescent Sensor
Authors: Han Tian , Yang Jinglun , Miao Rong , Liu Ke , Li Jing , Wang Dan , Liu Taihong , Fang Yu
Published: January 2021

Methanol is extremely toxic to humans if ingested or if vapors are inhaled. Facile and reliable detection of methanol is an efficient way to reduce the risk of methanol poisoning. A great challenge in methanol detection lies in distinguishing methanol under high ethanol background. In this work, a nanofilm‐based fluorescent sensor for direct distinguishing methanol from pure ethanol or liquor is presented, where no sample pretreatment or sensor array is needed. The flexible, uniform, and amorphous nanofilm is synthesized via dynamic covalent binding‐driven self‐assembly of BTN and CB‐CHO at air/DMSO interface. The nanofilm shows a large Stokes shift (≈175 nm) and excellent photostability. Different from sensing films based on drip‐permeance or drop cast of organic fluorophores, sensing performance of the nanofilm shows little dependence on substrate. With the film, an optical sensor for methanol vapor detection is built and it can distinguish methanol not only from the mixture of methanol and ethanol (with ethanol content up to 90%), but also from the liquor (45% vol). The sensor shows excellent reusability and high selectivity over many commonly used organic solvent vapors. Moreover, the sensor can be used to discriminate industrial alcohol from medical alcohol and detect methanol gas leak.
Graphdiyne Visible‐Light Photodetector with Ultrafast Detectivity
Authors: Li Yuan , Zhang Mingjia , Hu Xiuli , Li Xiaodong , Li Ru , Yu Lingmin , Fan Xinhui , Wang Naiyin , Huang Changshui , Li Yuliang
Published: January 2021

Two‐dimensional (2D) materials have captured a tremendous amount of attention worldwide due to their unique physical and chemical properties. Herein, a mesoscopic graphdiyne (GDY) film is prepared through a facile solution method and directly used to construct an ultra‐fast visible light detector. This GDY thin film‐based photodetector exhibits both stable and repeatable high‐performance photoelectric responses to the visible light with various wavelengths. Among the visible light range, the GDY thin film is discovered to be most sensitive to 640 nm laser, which can enable it to achieve the highest response value of up to 46300%, thus conferring GDY materials an undeniable superiority of application in photoelectric devices. Especially, such GDY‐based detectors demonstrate ultra‐fast response speeds with an ephemeral response/recovery time of only 5.15/19.83 µs, which is far better than most reported photosensitive materials, including inorganic materials, low‐dimensional composites, and heterojunctions. This study suggests that GDY thin films can be regarded as new promising candidates for application as rapid photoelectric sensors. More importantly, this paper reveals the vast potential of such sp‐hybridized carbon as novel carbon‐based semiconductors in future optoelectronic applications due to their unique structure and energy band.
Engineering of Mixed Eu3+/Tb3+ Metal‐Organic Frameworks Luminescent Thermometers with Tunable Sensitivity
Authors: Trannoy Virgile , Carneiro Neto Albano N. , Brites Carlos D. S. , Carlos Luís D. , Serier‐Brault Hélène
Published: January 2021

In the last decade, numerous Ln‐bearing metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs) have been reported for luminescence thermometry applications. Although the Ln3+ composition is always thoroughly determined, this parameter is never optimized to improve thermometric performances. Here, the optimization of thermometric performances of luminescent probes is tackled by reporting a series of mixed Eu3+–Tb3+ metal‐organic frameworks. The thermometric performances are accessed as a function of the Eu3+ content yielding a maximum relative sensitivity between 0.19 and 0.44% K−1 registered at temperatures between 340 and 240 K, respectively. A meticulous theoretical investigation of the Tb3+‐to‐Eu3+ energy transfer in the series of mixed Eu3+–Tb3+ MOFs is also performed to determine the predominant pathway of the energy transfer. For the first time, a clear evidence of the significant influence of the Eu/Tb ratio on the energy transfer between Ln3+ emitting centers is presented that definitively determines the operating temperature range and the maximum relative sensitivity of the luminescent thermal probes.
On‐Chip Optical Detection of Viruses: A Review
Authors: Shi Yuzhi , Li Zhenyu , Liu Patricia Yang , Nguyen Binh Thi Thanh , Wu Wenshuai , Zhao Qianbin , Chin Lip Ket , Wei Minggui , Yap Peng Huat , Zhou Xiaohong , Zhao Hongwei , Yu Dan , Tsai Din Ping , Liu Ai Qun
Published: January 2021

The current outbreak of the coronavirus disease‐19 (COVID‐19) pandemic worldwide has caused millions of fatalities and imposed a severe impact on our daily lives. Thus, the global healthcare system urgently calls for rapid, affordable, and reliable detection toolkits. Although the gold‐standard nucleic acid amplification tests have been widely accepted and utilized, they are time‐consuming and labor‐intensive, which exceedingly hinder the mass detection in low‐income populations, especially in developing countries. Recently, due to the blooming development of photonics, various optical chips have been developed to detect single viruses with the advantages of fast, label‐free, affordable, and point of care deployment. Herein, optical approaches especially in three perspectives, e.g., flow‐free optical methods, optofluidics, and surface‐modification‐assisted approaches, are summarized. The future development of on‐chip optical‐detection methods in the wave of emerging new ideas in nanophotonics is also briefly discussed.
Challenges and Opportunities in Simulations and Computer Experiments in Industrial Statistics: An Industry 4.0 Perspective
Authors: Kenett Ron S. , Vicario Grazia
Published: January 2021

This paper is a review of the growing role of simulations and computer experiments in industrial statistics, with an emphasis on Industry 4.0 applications. It maps the background, the current state, and the future directions of computer simulations in a wide range of process engineering, product design, and analytic disciplines.
Structural, Topological, and Superconducting Properties of Two‐Dimensional Tellurium Allotropes from Ab Initio Predictions
Authors: Zhao Chunxiang , Cai Xiaolin , Liu Liangliang , Liu Chengyan , Zeng Zaiping , Niu Chunyao , Xia Congxin , Jia Yu
Published: January 2021

The discovery of tellurene has effectively extended the realm of two‐dimensional (2D) elemental materials to group‐VI, which demonstrates promising potential in next‐generation electronic and optoelectronic device applications. Beyond the three prevailing structural phases of tellurene, it is further predicted 31 2D tellurium allotropes combining the particle‐swarm optimization (PSO) searches with density functional theory (DFT) calculations. The corresponding dynamic and thermal stability are examined by both phonon spectrum calculations and ab initio molecular dynamics (AIMD) simulations. Those 2D tellurium allotropes can be well categorized in terms of their intrinsic number of atomic layers, and cohesive energy. It is found that the allotropes with tri‐atomic layers are energetically most favorable, and mainly demonstrate semiconducting feature at larger cohesive energies. Four of the bi‐atomic‐layer allotropes with larger cohesive energies exhibit topological insulating feature, and two with slightly smaller cohesive energies are intrinsic superconductors with critical temperature Tc (≈8 K) competing with their bulk counterpart at high pressure. Interestingly, both topological and superconducting properties can co‐exist in one of those bi‐atomic‐layer allotropes, which is unique in the elemental 2D materials ever reported. The present study enriches the 2D tellurium allotropes and provides a viable platform for exploring novel functionalities for future device applications.
Ultralow Thermal Conductivity in Dual‐Doped n‐Type Bi2Te3 Material for Enhanced Thermoelectric Properties
Authors: Musah Jamal‐Deen , Guo Chen , Novitskii Andrei , Serhiienko Illia , Adesina Ayotunde Emmanuel , Khovaylo Vladimir , Wu Chi‐Man Lawrence , Zapien Juan Antonio , Roy Vellaisamy A. L.
Published: January 2021

Bismuth chalcogenides are promising materials for thermoelectric (TE) application due to their high power factor (product of the square of the Seebeck coefficient and electrical conductivity). However, their high thermal conductivity is an issue of concern. Single doping has proven to be useful in improving TE performance in recent years. Here, it is shown that dual isovalent doping shows the synergistic effect of thermal conductivity reduction and electron density control. The insertion of large atoms in the layered Bi2Te3 structure distorts the crystal lattice and contributes significantly to phonon scattering. The ultralow thermal conductivity (KT = 0.35 W m−1 K−1 at 473 K) compensates for the low power factor and thus enhances TE performance. The density functional theory electronic structure calculation results reveal deep defects states in the valence band, which influences the electronic transport properties of the system. Therefore, the dual dopants (indium and antimony) show a coupled effect of improvement in the density of state near the Fermi level and reduction in the conduction band minimum, thus enhancing electron density. Numerically, it is demonstrated that the dual doping favors acoustic phonon scattering and thus drastically reduces the thermal conductivity.
Characterization of Aerosol Deposited Cesium Lead Tribromide Perovskite Films on Interdigited ITO Electrodes
Authors: These Albert , Khansur Neamul H. , Almora Osbel , Luer Larry , Matt Gebhard J. , Eckstein Udo , Barabash Anastasia , Osvet Andres , Webber Kyle G. , Brabec Christoph J.
Published: January 2021

Aerosol deposition (AD) is a promising additive manufacturing method to fabricate low‐cost, scalable films at room temperature, but has not been considered for semiconductor processing, so far. The successful preparation of cesium lead tribromide (CsPbBr3) perovskite films on interdigitated indium tin oxide (ITO) electrodes by means of AD is reported here. The 20–35 µm thick layers are dense and have good adhesion to the substrate. The orthorhombic Pnma crystal structure of the precursor powder was retained during the deposition process with no signs of defect formation. The formation of electronic defects by photoluminescence spectroscopy is investigated and found slightly increased carrier recombination from defect sites for AD films compared to the powder. A nonuniform defect distribution across the layer, presumably induced by the impact of the semiconducting grains on the hard substrate surface, is revealed. The opto‐electronic properties of AD processed semiconducting films is further tested by electrical measurements and confirmed good semiconducting properties and high responsivity for the films. These results demonstrate that AD processing of metal halide perovskites is possible for opto‐electronic device manufacturing on 3D surfaces. It is believed that this work paves the way for the fabrication of previously unimaginable opto‐electronic devices by additive manufacturing.
Indoor Organic Photovoltaics: Optimal Cell Design Principles with Synergistic Parasitic Resistance and Optical Modulation Effect
Authors: Saeed Muhammad Ahsan , Kim Sang Hyeon , Kim Hyeok , Liang Jiaen , Woo Han Young , Kim Tae Geun , Yan He , Shim Jae Won
Published: January 2021

Recently, indoor organic photovoltaics (OPVs) has attracted substantial research attention, due to the emergence of self‐powered electronic devices for Internet‐of‐Things (IoT) applications. This progress report discusses recent developments in indoor OPVs, focusing on the strategic role of synergistic parasitic resistance in suppressing the leakage current to achieve high indoor efficiencies. Moreover, an underexplored area is presented, namely the impact of optical modulation on enhancing light absorption in indoor OPVs. First, the main advances in material design for indoor OPVs are briefly presented. This is followed by detailed discussions of the crucial strategies, including interfacial engineering, the effect of photoactive layer thickness, and the effectiveness of transparent conducting electrodes for improving the OPV performance. Overall, this review highlights that understanding the indispensable role of parasitic resistance under dim light conditions may provide new opportunities for developing efficient indoor OPVs for practical applications. Finally, after summarizing recent progress in indoor OPVs, a critical perspective is provided.
Engineering 2D Photocatalysts toward Carbon Dioxide Reduction
Authors: Zhou Yansong , Wang Zhitong , Huang Lei , Zaman Shahid , Lei Kai , Yue Ting , Li Zhong'an , You Bo , Xia Bao Yu
Published: January 2021

As a way to drive chemical reactions by renewable solar energy, photocatalytic technology is an appealing strategy for carbon recycle and value‐added CO2 utilization mimicking the natural photosynthetic system to remedy energy and environmental problems. During the recent decades of exploration, extensive research has been reported on 2D nanomaterials in photocatalytic CO2 reduction because of their unique structural properties. This review highlights the ongoing development of modification strategies for 2D nanomaterials from the viewpoints of defect engineering, surface modification, and hybrid construction, following the sequence of inside‐to‐outside design of the photocatalysts. These methodologies can expand the scope of light absorption, promote the separation of photogenerated charge carriers, and enhance the adsorption and activation of CO2, thus effectively improve the photocatalytic efficiency. The future challenges and opportunities for developing modified 2D photocatalysts are also discussed. It is hoped that this review can provide useful guidelines toward further research on 2D nanocatalysis for CO2 photocatalytic conversion.
Interfacial Oxide Formation Limits the Photovoltage of α‐SnWO4/NiOx Photoanodes Prepared by Pulsed Laser Deposition
Authors: Schnell Patrick , Kölbach Moritz , Schleuning Markus , Obata Keisuke , Irani Rowshanak , Ahmet Ibbi Y. , Harb Moussab , Starr David E. , van de Krol Roel , Abdi Fatwa F.
Published: January 2021

α‐SnWO4 is a promising metal oxide photoanode material for direct photoelectrochemical water splitting. With a band gap of 1.9 eV, it ideally matches the requirements as a top absorber in a tandem device theoretically capable of achieving solar‐to‐hydrogen (STH) efficiencies above 20%. It suffers from photoelectrochemical instability, but NiOx protection layers have been shown to help overcome this limitation. At the same time, however, such protection layers seem to reduce the photovoltage that can be generated at the solid/electrolyte junction. In this study, an extensive analysis of the α‐SnWO4/NiOx interface is performed by synchrotron‐based hard X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (HAXPES). NiOx deposition introduces a favorable upwards band bending, but also oxidizes Sn2+ to Sn4+ at the interface. By combining the HAXPES data with open circuit potential (OCP) analysis, density functional theory (DFT) calculations, and Monte Carlo‐based photoemission spectra simulation, the presence of a thin oxide layer at the α‐SnWO4/NiOx interface is suggested and shown to be responsible for the limited photovoltage. Based on this new‐found understanding, suitable mitigation strategies can be proposed. Overall, this study demonstrates the complex nature of solid‐state interfaces in multi‐layer photoelectrodes, which needs to be unraveled to design efficient heterostructured photoelectrodes for solar water splitting.
COVID‐19, Government Transfer Payments, and Investment Decisions in Farming Business: Evidence from Northern India
Authors: Varshney Deepak , Kumar Anjani , Mishra Ashok K. , Rashid Shahidur , Joshi Pramod K.
Published: January 2021

Although the COVID‐19 pandemic resulted in about a 24% decline in India's GDP during the April–June 2020 quarter, the nation's agricultural sector, somewhat surprisingly, seems to have done remarkably well. This paper examines whether the public transfer program Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana (PMGKY), announced immediately after the lockdown, benefited farmers in dealing with the COVID shock. Overall, 95% of the smallholders received support from at least one of PMGKY's four components. Direct cash transfers had significantly more impact than in‐kind transfer schemes. The result shows that farmers receiving cash transfers under PM‐KISAN, one component of PMGKY, were more likely to invest in buying seeds. In contrast, farmers receiving cash transfers under PM‐UY, another piece of PMGKY, were more likely to invest in fertilizer and pesticides. Finally, smallholders who received benefits from all four components of PMGKY were more likely to invest in purchasing seeds, fertilizer, and pesticides. Findings suggest the fungibility of public cash transfers from the recent PMGKY scheme is significant in alleviating credit constraints and increasing future investments in modern inputs.
Scheduling rice irrigation using soil moisture thresholds for furrow irrigation and intermittent flooding
Authors: Chlapecka Justin L. , Hardke Jarrod T. , Roberts Trenton L. , Mann Matthew G. , Ablao Ali
Published: January 2021

Alternative methods of rice (Oryza sativa L.) irrigation are gaining increasing popularity across the U.S. Mid‐South, but an allowable soil moisture deficit stress has not been defined. This study was conducted in 2018 and 2019 to determine the soil moisture threshold for furrow‐irrigated rice (FIR) and alternate wetting and drying (AWD) rice production systems to minimize irrigation water use while maximizing grain and milling yield. Soil moisture thresholds of −15, −30, and −45 kPa, as determined by Watermark sensors at a 10‐cm depth in the top third of the field, were compared with conventional flood rice (CFR) on a Calloway silt loam and a Sharkey clay in eastern Arkansas. Soil moisture threshold had no effect on grain or milling yield across irrigation thresholds; however, the bottom third of FIR, where a flood was held, consistently produced higher grain yield (10,652–10,965 kg ha−1) than the top third (9,442–9,722 kg ha−1). Significant differences in irrigation water use efficiency (IWUE) were achieved under AWD and FIR. The IWUE did not differ across AWD irrigation thresholds but was 58.1–103.8% greater than that of CFR. The −15 and −30 kPa FIR thresholds did not improve IWUE, but using a −45 kPa irrigation threshold resulted in a 42.7% greater IWUE than CFR and 66.0% greater than the −15 kPa threshold. Results suggest that using a −45 kPa irrigation threshold at the 10‐cm depth can potentially maintain grain and milling yield while increasing IWUE under AWD and FIR.
A semi‐commercial case study of willow biomass production in the northeastern United States
Authors: Montes Felipe , Fabio Eric S. , Smart Lawrence B. , Richard Tom L. , Añó Rodrigo Masip , Kemanian Armen R.
Published: January 2021

Shrub willow (Salix spp. and hybrids) is a biomass crop well adapted to the northeastern United States. We assessed the biomass productivity of six willow cultivars in a 14.5‐ha field in Pennsylvania through two rotation cycles of 3 yr each, comparing the realized and biophysical yield potential. We also evaluated the relationship of yield with plant density and the harvest efficiency. The realized yield of the best cultivars was about 8 Mg ha–1 yr–1, well below the calculated harvestable potential of 14 Mg ha–1 yr–1. Uniform stands of willow without planting gaps may maximize yield with 8 × 103 plants ha–1, but upright cultivars may benefit from higher densities. Harvest is relatively slow at 1 ha h–1 or 20 Mg h–1 in the longest rows with optimal ground conditions, which makes the harvest cost per hour high. Biotic stresses built up gradually during the 7 yr of the experiment affecting two cultivars severely. The cultivar S. miyabeana × S. viminalis ‘Preble’ was defoliated by a growing population of willow leaf beetle (Plagiodera versicolora), whereas the cultivar S. purpurea ‘Fish Creek’ was affected by two fungal diseases and suffered a major stand loss in the winter of 2019/2020. Both examples justify breeding for insects and diseases resistance. The moderate harvestable yield and high harvest cost imply that in the northeastern United States, the viability of willow for bioenergy with carbon capture and storage as a tool to reduce CO2 emissions may depend on the provision and monetization of additional ecosystem services.
Effects of latitude and conspecific plant density on insect leaf herbivory in oak saplings and seedlings
Authors: Moreira Xoaquín , Abdala‐Roberts Luis , De Frenne Pieter , Galmán Andrea , Gaytán Álvaro , Jaatinen Raimo , Lago‐Núñez Beatriz , Meeussen Camille , Pulkkinen Pertti , Rasmussen Pil U. , Ten Hoopen Jan P.J.G. , Timmermans Bart G.H. , Vázquez‐González Carla , Bos Nick , Castagneyrol Bastien , Tack Ayco J.M.
Published: January 2021

Premise

Abiotic factors and plant species traits have been shown to drive latitudinal gradients in herbivory, and yet, population‐level factors have been largely overlooked within this context. One such factor is plant density, which may influence the strength of herbivory and may vary with latitude.

Methods

We measured insect herbivory and conspecific plant density (CPD) of oak (Quercus robur) seedlings and saplings along a 17° latitudinal gradient (2700 km) to test whether herbivory exhibited a latitudinal gradient, whether herbivory was associated with CPD, and whether such an association changed with latitude.

Results

We found a positive but saturating association between latitude and leaf herbivory. Furthermore, we found no significant relationship between CPD and herbivory, and such lack of density effects remained consistent throughout the sampled latitudinal gradient.

Conclusions

Despite the apparently negligible influence of plant density on herbivory for Q. robur, further research with other plant taxa and in different types of plant communities are needed to investigate density‐dependent processes shaping geographical variation in plant–herbivore interactions.
Community Conversations on Relationship Violence: Town Variations in Prevention Perceptions through Concept Mapping
Authors: Ast Roxanna S. , Banyard Victoria L. , Burnham Jessica , Edwards Katie M.
Published: January 2021

To further develop domestic and sexual violence (DSV) prevention strategies at the community level requires an understanding of how community members in towns think about prevention. Using concept mapping, this study sought to better understand community members’ perspectives about what DSV prevention strategies would be most feasible, most effective, and generate the greatest community support within their town. Data were collected across four rural Northern England towns. Participants (>90% White) in each town (total sample size = 119) brainstormed, sorted, and rated between 67 and 90 statements per town (x̅ = 75). Based on the results, a 5‐cluster solution of school settings, conversations, individual direct action, community building, and community awareness was identified across all four towns as DSV prevention strategies with one town identifying an additional cluster solution of governance. Despite identifying similar prevention strategies, participants from each town rated these clusters of strategies differently on how feasible, effective, and supported they would be in their community. Overall, our results suggest that there were interesting consistencies across four towns in a similar geographic region in terms of how DSV prevention was described. However, individual communities differed in their views of the feasibility and acceptability of the different strategies. These results suggest that different strategies and higher‐level actions may be required to address and prevent DSV within different towns and communities and that community narratives can clarify which specific strategies may encounter fewer barriers to implementation.
41st Annual David W. Smith workshop on malformations and morphogenesis: Abstracts of the 2020 annual meeting
Authors: Gripp Karen W. , Jones Kenneth Lyons , Wenger Tara L. ,   Smith Workshop Abstract Authors, Adam Margaret P.
Published: January 2021

The 41st Annual David W. Smith Workshop on Malformation and Morphogenesis was scheduled to take place in Skamania, Washington, on September 11–16, 2020. Due to the COVID‐19 pandemic and the associated recommendations to avoid travel and congregation in large groups, this meeting took place differently from its original plan. Rather than bringing trainees, clinicians and researchers with an interest in congenital malformations and their underlying morphogenesis together for several days in a workshop with submitted presentations and research lectures, this meeting took place virtually. A 1 day online meeting was organized in order to allow trainees to present their work. This Conference Report includes the highest scoring abstracts submitted by trainees and presented at the 2020 virtual David W. Smith Workshop.
Intellectual disability associated with craniofacial dysmorphism, cleft palate, and congenital heart defect due to a de novo MEIS2 mutation: A clinical longitudinal study
Authors: Gangfuß Andrea , Yigit Gökhan , Altmüller Janine , Nürnberg Peter , Czeschik Johanna Christina , Wollnik Bernd , Bögershausen Nina , Burfeind Peter , Wieczorek Dagmar , Kaiser Frank , Roos Andreas , Kölbel Heike , Schara‐Schmidt Ulrike , Kuechler Alma
Published: January 2021

Intellectual disability (ID) has an estimated prevalence of 1.5%–2%. Whole exome sequencing (WES) studies have identified a multitude of novel causative gene defects and have shown that sporadic ID cases result from de novo mutations in genes associated with ID. Here, we report on a 10‐year‐old girl, who has been regularly presented in our neuropediatric and genetic outpatient clinic. A median cleft palate and a heart defect were surgically corrected in infancy. Apart from ID, she has behavioral anomalies, muscular hypotonia, scoliosis, and hypermobile joints. The facial phenotype is characterized by arched eyebrows, mildly upslanting long palpebral fissures, prominent nasal tip, and large, protruding ears. Trio WES revealed a de novo missense variant in MEIS2 (c.998G>A; p.Arg333Lys). Haploinsufficiency of MEIS2 had been discussed as the most likely mechanism of the microdeletion 5q14‐associated complex phenotype with ID, cleft palate, and heart defect. Recently, four studies including in total 17 individuals with intragenic MEIS2 variants were reported. Here we present the evolution of the clinical phenotype and compare with the data of known individuals.
Advances in Whole‐Cell Photobiological Hydrogen Production
Authors: Chen Jie , Li Qian , Wang Lihua , Fan Chunhai , Liu Huajie
Published: January 2021

Solar energy is the largest energy source on Earth. In contrast to the limited and greenhouse gases‐emitting fossil fuels, solar energy is inexhaustible, carbon neutral, and nonpolluting. The conversion of this most abundant but highly diffused source into hydrogen is increasingly attractive. In nature, photosynthetic microorganisms exploit solar energy to produce hydrogen via photosynthesis, which is also known as photobiological hydrogen production. More recently, various types of artificial materials have been developed to hybrid microorganisms for converting solar energy into hydrogen, namely, semiartificial photosynthesis hydrogen production. Herein, the strategies for converting solar energy into hydrogen with whole‐cell biocatalyst are summarized and their potentials for future social sustainable development are discussed.
Combined use of a videolaryngoscope and a flexible bronchoscope for awake tracheal intubation when front‐of‐neck airway is not an option*
Authors: Khan M. F. , Shamim F. , Slote M. U. , Salim B. , Abbas S. A.
Published: January 2021

We report a case of successful tracheal intubation with the combined use of a videolaryngoscope and flexible bronchoscope in a patient with difficult airway when both techniques had individually failed. A 35‐year‐old man presented with airway obstruction due to massive neck swelling causing hypoxia, stridor and respiratory distress. He had a history of oral cancer which had been resected with bilateral neck dissection and free flap reconstruction 2 months previously. Due to extensive anterior neck swelling, we judged that front‐of‐neck airway would not be a suitable approach. After unsuccessful attempts at awake tracheal intubation with videolaryngoscopy and flexible bronchoscopy separately, we combined both techniques with a successful outcome. By using a combined technique to address the specific problems presented by this case, a life‐threatening emergency was resolved. This case highlights why it is useful for anaesthetists to be familiar with multiple techniques to awake tracheal intubation, both individually and in combination.
Protein immobilization on polyvinylphenol via tyrosine oxidation of proteins catalyzed by horseradish peroxidase
Authors: Tonami Hiroyuki , Nishiuchi Hitachi
Published: January 2021

Surface functionalization of polymeric materials holds great potential in biological and medical fields with the aim toward realizing desired biological reactions (e.g., cell adhesion, and immune response), especially for proteins which have physiological functions. The objective was to examine characteristics of a unique and facile protein immobilization on a phenol‐containing polymeric material utilizing horseradish peroxidase (HRP) and tyrosine residues of target proteins as catalyst and substrates, respectively. Cy3‐labeled streptavidin exhibited the predicted immobilization behavior since the reaction effectively proceeded in the presence of HRP‐H2O2and on the surface of polyvinylphenol. This procedure was applicable to other representative proteins, that is, bovine serum albumin, immunoglobulin G (IgG), and HRP as substrates. However, IgG exhibited anomalous reaction behavior under the present reaction condition probably due to its rich tyrosine content. Undesired immobilization of HRP was minimized by addition of large amounts of a competitive substrate. The biotin‐binding affinity of streptavidin‐immobilized surface was confirmed to maintain activity even after the immobilization procedure.
Bayesian modelling suggests that the sterlet (Acipenser ruthenus, Linnaeus 1758) population is ageing in the middle Danube River
Authors: Kubala Maroš , Farský Martin , Krajč Tibor , Pekárik Ladislav
Published: January 2021

In the past, sturgeons played an important role in commercial and recreational fisheries in the Danube River and its tributaries. Human impacts in the Danube River Basin coupled with exploitation of sturgeon stocks led to all species being either locally extinct, critically endangered or of unknown status.

Sterlet (Acipenser ruthenus, Linnaeus 1758) is the last known sturgeon species occurring in the upper and middle Danube; however, the population of this species is considered unbalanced and decreasing since the beginning of the twenty‐first century.

The decline of sturgeon stocks has been noted before owing to their economic importance. With commercial fisheries being forbidden in the Slovak section of the Danube River, there is generally no information available about the status of what is considered a local population.

Databases containing recreational catch of sterlet (2003–2018) and historical records of commercial harvest (1961–1990) were used to describe the trend in the weight and number of sterlet caught over the following years.

Modelling indicated that the number of fish caught each year appears to be lower, while the average weight of each individual is increasing. This might suggest that the population is ageing.

Although older individuals can contribute a great deal more to spawning because they produce a greater number of eggs, several problems are apparent. The number of spawners might be decreasing as a result of bycatch or fishing, their ability to spawn might be obstructed, or annual recruitment may fail owing to unpredictable events.

Although restocking programmes are in place to help maintain the sterlet population in the Danube River, their efficiency seems to be drastically low. In fact, restocking could be of little value unless studies on the availability of key habitats are conducted and their protection and restoration are ensured.
Sandbar shark aggregation in the central Mediterranean Sea and potential effects of tourism
Authors: Cattano C. , Turco G. , Di Lorenzo M. , Gristina M. , Visconti G. , Milazzo M.
Published: January 2021

An aggregation of sandbar sharks Carcharhinus plumbeus occurs every summer around the remote uninhabited islet of Lampione (Pelagie Islands Marine Protected Area, south‐western Mediterranean Sea), attracting an increasing number of tourists for a shark watching experience.

Despite the ecological and socio‐economic importance of this rare occurrence in Mediterranean waters, there is a lack of scientific data and lack of information as to the potential impact of tourist activities on the presence and behaviour of this shark species.

Using baited underwater videos, this study provides the first assessment of this shark aggregation, as well as a preliminary evaluation of the potential effects that boating and diving activities may have on sandbar sharks during two different periods within the tourism season (July and September 2019).

Overall, 241 sandbar shark sightings (with up to five individuals together) were recorded in July, whereas there were only six sightings in September. The average MaxN was 1.18 hr−1 (±0.21 hr−1 SE) and 0.22 hr−1 (±0.10 hr−1 SE) individuals in July and September respectively. Higher frequentation levels of divers and boats significantly reduced the number of shark sightings at the aggregation site.

This study emphasizes the need for further investigations on Mediterranean shark aggregations and the implementation of specific conservation measures, such as an increase of protection level in Lampione and better enforcement, aside from strategies that promote sustainable tourism, including restrictions on the number of boats and divers’ visits per day. In the meantime, a precautionary approach aimed at regulating the interactions between tourists and sharks should be implemented through the application of a self‐regulatory code of conduct for divers when sharks aggregate around the island.
Post‐synthetic ‘Click’ Synthesis of RAFT Polymers with Pendant Self‐immolative Triazoles
Authors: Forder Timothy N. , Maschmeyer Peter G. , Zeng Haoxiang , Roberts Derrick A.
Published: January 2021

Self‐immolative linkers offer efficient mechanisms for deprotecting ‘caged’ functional groups in response to specific stimuli. Herein we describe a convenient ‘click’ chemistry method for introducing pendant self‐immolative linkers to a polymer backbone through post‐polymerization modification. The introduced triazole rings serve both to anchor the stimuli‐cleavable trigger groups to the polymer backbone, while also forming a functional part of the self‐immolation cascade. We investigate the polymerization kinetics, post‐synthetic modification, and self‐immolation mechanism of a model polymer system, and discuss avenues for future studies on poly‐pendant self‐immolative triazoles as a modular, stimuli‐responsive macromolecule platform.
Precise Design of Covalent Organic Frameworks for Electrocatalytic Hydrogen Peroxide Production
Authors: Guo Yu , Xu Qing , Yang Shuai , Jiang Zheng , Yu Chengbing , Zeng Gaofeng
Published: January 2021

Electrochemical synthesis of H2O2 with high productivity is a significant challenge in electrocatalysis. Herein, we develop Mg‐ion contained covalent organic frameworks (MgP‐DHTA‐COF), comprising stacked 2D layers, well‐defined skeletons, and well‐ordered monodispersed active sites, for the electrocatalytic production of H2O2 directly from O2 and H2O. The precise‐designed MgP‐DHTA‐COF achieves H2O2 selectivity up to 96%, high Faradaic efficiency of 91% and reliable stability for H2O2 synthesis in 0.10 mol L−1 KOH aqueous solution. Both experiments and simulations demonstrate that the pyrrolic‐N fixed Mg ions in the knots promote the reactivity of COF and enhance the adsorption ability of OOH*. This work provides a valuable example for the design of an efficient electrocatalyst based on COFs for H2O2 production.
Stadtbahnbrücke
Authors: Keil Andreas , Haspel Lorenz
Published: January 2021

Die Verlängerung der Stadtbahnlinie U6 von Fasanenhof/Schelmenwasen zum Flughafen und zur Messe Stuttgart überquert die BAB A 8 östlich der Anschlussstelle Stuttgart‐Degerloch (B 27). Das neue Brückenbauwerk befindet sich in exponierter Lage, in einem komplexen Umfeld eines großen Verkehrsknotens, und erschließt als Teil des schienengebundenen ÖPNV im Raum Stuttgart das Messegelände, den Flughafen und den geplanten Fernbahnhof am Flughafen für das südliche Stadtgebiet Stuttgarts. Neben Dauerhaftigkeit und Wirtschaftlichkeit besteht an das Brückenbauwerk auch ein gestalterischer Anspruch sowie die Anforderung, dass die Beeinträchtigungen des Verkehrs – sowohl während der Bauzeit als auch später – auf ein Minimum begrenzt werden sollte. Daher überspannt das Hauptfeld der Brücke die an dieser Stelle etwa 80 m breiten Verkehrsflächen mit insgesamt sechs Fahrspuren und vier Ein‐ und Ausfädelspuren stützenfrei. Zusammen mit den offen gestalteten Seitenfeldern ergeben sich, trotz der auf hohen Erddämmen angeordneten neuen Trasse, max. freie Sichtbeziehungen. Eine besondere Innovation stellen die geneigten, sich kreuzenden Hängerseile aus Carbon‐Zugelementen dar, die ein ästhetisches und gleichzeitig effizientes Tragwerk ermöglichen.
Electrochemical Performance of Mg Metal‐Quinone Battery in Chloride‐Free Electrolyte
Authors: Pavčnik Tjaša , Bitenc Jan , Pirnat Klemen , Dominko Robert
Published: January 2021

Mg batteries are a promising energy storage system due to the high capacity of the Mg metal anode. However, until recently Mg battery practical application seemed very distant due to corrosive nature of Mg electrolytes and the lack of suitable cathode materials. In this work, we bridge this gap by combining novel chloride‐free Mg electrolyte, Mg perfluorinated pinacolato borate (MgFPB), with quinone based organic cathode. ATR‐IR spectroscopy and complementary energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDS) of ex situ cathodes confirm reduction of carbonyl group during discharge an its preferred coordination with Mg2+ cations, although monovalent not fully dissociated MgFPB+cation pairs are detected as well. Mediocre capacity retention of PAQS/CNTs is improved through the use of phenanthrenequinone based polymer (PFQ/rGO). The study demonstrates the promising performance of organic compounds in chloride‐free electrolytes and points towards future steps on the path towards practical Mg metal organic batteries.