bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A new green‐to‐transmissive polymer with electroactive poly(3,4‐ethylene dioxythiophene):poly(styrene sulfonate) as an interface layer for achieving high‐performance electrochromic device
Authors: Lv Xiaojing , Bi Qian , Tameev Alexey , Zhang Yujian , Qian Liang , Ouyang Mi , Zhang Cheng
Published: February 2020

A new neutral green electrochromic (EC) polymer, namely poly(5,8‐bis(2,3‐dihydro[3,4‐B][1,4]dioxin‐5‐yl)‐2,3‐dual(4‐(hexadecyloxy) phenyl) quinoxaline) (PBOPEQ) was designed and synthesized. PBOPEQ‐poly(3,4‐ethylene dioxythiophene):poly(styrene sulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) film was further prepared by electrochemical polymerization on the PEDOT:PSS modified indium tin oxide (ITO) electrode. Scanning electron microscopy images and ultrasonic experiment indicate that PBOPEQ‐PEDOT:PSS film shows better film‐forming ability and stronger interface adhesive with ITO electrode compared to that of PBOPEQ film. It is worth mentioning that PBOPEQ‐PEDOT:PSS film presents more reversible redox characteristic, better optical contrast (~40%) and coloration efficiency (~230 cm2 C−1) at 678 nm, excellent EC stability and memory property (36 hr), which should be ascribed to that the electroactive PEDOT:PSS layer facilitates the charge transfer process and enhances the ion doping/dedoping properties. EC device based on PBOPEQ‐PEDOT:PSS film exhibits superior integrated performance such as reversible color change from green to transmissive, optical contrast of 41.0% and switching time less than 1 s. Accordingly, PBOPEQ‐PEDOT:PSS is an excellent EC material when combined with electroactive PEDOT:PSS interface layer for achieving high performance device, which shows potential applications in displays, electronic papers, and tags.
Structure, function, and biosynthesis of nickel‐dependent enzymes
Authors: Alfano Marila , Cavazza Christine
Published: February 2020

Nickel enzymes, present in archaea, bacteria, plants, and primitive eukaryotes are divided into redox and nonredox enzymes and play key functions in diverse metabolic processes, such as energy metabolism and virulence. They catalyze various reactions by using active sites of diverse complexities, such as mononuclear nickel in Ni‐superoxide dismutase, glyoxylase I and acireductone dioxygenase, dinuclear nickel in urease, heteronuclear metalloclusters in [NiFe]‐carbon monoxide dehydrogenase, acetyl‐CoA decarbonylase/synthase and [NiFe]‐hydrogenase, and even more complex cofactors in methyl‐CoM reductase and lactate racemase. The presence of metalloenzymes in a cell necessitates a tight regulation of metal homeostasis, in order to maintain the appropriate intracellular concentration of nickel while avoiding its toxicity. As well, the biosynthesis and insertion of nickel active sites often require specific and elaborated maturation pathways, allowing the correct metal to be delivered and incorporated into the target enzyme. In this review, the phylogenetic distribution of nickel enzymes will be briefly described. Their tridimensional structures as well as the complexity of their active sites will be discussed. In view of the latest findings on these enzymes, a special focus will be put on the biosynthesis of their active sites and nickel activation of apo‐enzymes.
Parametrizing cloud geometry and its application in a subgrid cloud‐edge erosion scheme
Authors: Fielding Mark D. , Schäfer Sophia A. K. , Hogan Robin J. , Forbes Richard M.
Published: February 2020

To represent the effects of unresolved cloud processes in numerical weather prediction and climate models, parametrizations of the subgrid properties of clouds are required. In this paper, we describe a method for specifying the “cloud‐edge length” within a model grid‐box, which is an important parameter for approximating the subgrid mixing of air at cloud boundaries. We begin by proposing three conceptual models that predict the cloud‐edge length using the grid‐box cloud fraction and a length‐scale to be derived empirically. The conceptual models are then evaluated using a wide range of observations and cloud‐resolving models. Based on the finding that the “effective cloud spacing” approach fits both these data best, we parametrize the effective cloud spacing as a function of pressure and model resolution. An application of this parametrization to the cloud erosion scheme in the ECMWF forecast model is then demonstrated. The effective cloud spacing approach is compared to the “effective cloud scale” approach and is shown to increase cloud fraction in stratocumulus regions, while decreasing cloud fraction in cumulus regions. These cloud changes have the overall effect of decreasing the error of the modelled top‐of‐atmosphere net short‐wave irradiance when compared to CERES observations by around 3%. Additionally, the cloud‐edge length is an important parameter for approximating subgrid radiative transfer and it is hoped that this parametrization will be useful to quantify the effect of representing 3D cloud radiative transfer in global models.
Predictability of tropical rainfall and waves: Estimates from observational data
Authors: Li Ying , Stechmann Samuel N.
Published: February 2020

For tropical rainfall, there are several potential sources of predictability, including synoptic‐scale convectively coupled equatorial waves (CCEWs) and intraseasonal oscillations such as the Madden–Julian Oscillation (MJO). In prior work, predictability of these waves and rainfall has mainly been explored using forecast model data. Here, the goal is to estimate the intrinsic predictability using, instead, mainly observational data. To accomplish this, Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) data are decomposed into different wave types using spectral/Fourier filtering. The predictability of MJO rainfall is estimated to be 22–31 days, depending on longitude, as measured by the lead time when the pattern correlation skill drops below 0.5. The predictability of rainfall associated with convectively coupled equatorial Rossby waves, Kelvin waves, and a background spectrum or nonwave component is estimated to be 8–12, 2–3, and 0–3 days, respectively. Combining all wave types, the overall predictability of tropical rainfall is estimated to be 3–6 days over the Indian and Pacific Ocean regions and on equatorial synoptic and planetary length‐scales. For comparison, outgoing longwave radiation (OLR) was more predictable than rainfall by 5–10 days over these regions. Wave‐removal tests were also conducted to estimate the contribution of each wave type to the overall predictability of rainfall. In summary, no single wave type dominates the predictability of tropical rainfall; each of the types (MJO, CCEWs, and nonwave component) has an appreciable contribution, due to the variance contribution, length of decorrelation time, or a combination of these factors.
Primary squamous cell carcinoma of the pleura treated with nivolumab
Authors: Sigala Ioanna , Alevizopoulos Nektarios , Elefteriou Konstantinos , Gianniou Niki , Kalomenidis Ioannis
Published: February 2020

Malignant pleural effusions usually manifest in the course of metastatic cancer disease. Primary pleural tumours are rare with mesothelioma being by far the most common. Primary squamous cell carcinoma of the pleura (PSCCP) is extremely rare. It is usually asymptomatic, until it invades the pleura presenting pain as the first symptom. Our knowledge about its treatment or prognosis is limited due to its rarity. We present the case of a 48‐year‐old man who presented with persistent right‐sided thoracic pain with chest computed tomography (CT) scan demonstrating a right‐sided pleural effusion and pleural mass invading the ribs. Ultrasound‐guided biopsy revealed a PSCCP. Positron emission tomography staging demonstrated metastatic lung and lymph node involvement precluding surgical therapy. We provide information about treatment, including immunotherapy as well as extended follow‐up course. Immunotherapy with nivolumab resulted in prolongation of survival with good quality of life.
Pembrolizumab‐related pancreatitis with elevation of pancreatic tumour markers
Authors: Kakuwa Tamaki , Hashimoto Masao , Izumi Atsuko , Naka Go , Takeda Yuichiro , Sugiyama Haruhito
Published: February 2020

Lung cancer immunotherapy is an effective treatment option; however, it can be hampered by adverse events, including pancreatitis, associated with excessive immune activation. Here, we report the case of a 70‐year‐old patient who presented with recurrent lung squamous carcinoma and was started with pembrolizumab treatment (200 mg every three weeks). The patient developed pembrolizumab‐induced pancreatitis. After 14 months of pembrolizumab treatment, positron emission tomography–computed tomography showed a tumour‐shaped, highly integrated lesion at the pancreatic head and significantly elevated tumour markers, including carbohydrate antigen 19‐9 (149.3 U/mL), s‐pancreas antigen‐1 (44.7 U/mL), and duke pancreatic monoclonal antigen type 2 (412 U/mL). Pembrolizumab‐induced immune‐related pancreatitis was effectively treated with prednisolone 90 mg (1 mg/kg/day). Four months later, normal levels of the three specific tumour markers were detected, with improved pancreatic enzymes and radiographic findings. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of immune‐related pancreatitis with elevated pancreatic cancer‐specific markers.
Human impacts on suspended sediment and turbidity in the River Murray, South Eastern Australia: Multiple lines of evidence
Authors: Rutherfurd Ian D. , Kenyon Christine , Thoms Martin , Grove James , Turnbull Jodie , Davies Peter , Lawrence Susan
Published: February 2020

European settlement has led to increased loads of fine suspended sediment (SS) entering the River Murray, Australia's largest, and arguably, most important river. The River Murray's anthropogenic sediment history can be divided into four periods with varying source areas, sediment loads, and seasonal patterns. The Aboriginal period (before 1840) was characterized by clear water at summer low‐flows in the River Murray and its southern tributaries, with more sediment coming from the northern catchment than the southern, and the Darling River being turbid at all flows. There is little evidence that Aboriginal burning resulted in any measurable increase in SS. SS loads peaked in the 1870s and 1880s (the gold and gully period, 1850–1930) as valley floors were incised by gullies (mostly in northern tributaries), and gold sluicing flushed huge amounts of sludge into southern tributaries. Sedimentation in wetlands and on floodplains increased by 2–10 times in this period, and the biota in wetlands switched from clear water to turbid water communities. In the hiatus period (1930–1960) sediment supply from gullies and gold mining waned and low flow SS concentrations returned to low levels. Dam construction through the 1960s and 1970s (the regulation period, 1960 on) disconnected the River Murray from catchment derived sediment. Despite this, SS levels increased again: now largely derived from instream sources including bank erosion from long duration summer irrigation flows, the spread of bottom‐feeding carp (Cyprinus carpio), and wave erosion from boats. Erosion switched from winter to summer dominated. Significant investment in securing water for the environment in the Murray‐Darling Basin could be complemented by addressing in‐channel sediment sources in the River Murray itself to reduce turbidity. Overall, European era SS concentrations remain relatively low with small sediment delivery to the ocean (0.1 Mt per annum), despite high catchment erosion rates. This is due to poor sediment delivery efficiency through the low‐gradient landscape.
Trade‐offs among road–stream crossing upgrade prioritizations based on connectivity restoration and erosion risk control
Authors: Lin Hsien‐Yung , Robinson Kelly F. , Walter Lisa
Published: February 2020

Prioritizing projects to improve cost‐effectiveness has become a common practice in natural resources management, especially in selecting sites for river restoration work. Previous studies for prioritizing road–stream crossing upgrade projects focused on either restoring river connectivity or reducing sedimentation, even though crossings can affect connectivity and sedimentation simultaneously. In this study, we simulated site selection to maximize the improvement of connectivity restoration and sedimentation reduction of three prioritization schemes targeting (a) river connectivity, (b) erosion risk, or (c) both objectives concurrently and compared the results. Furthermore, we examined the relationships between the cost‐effectiveness of prioritizations and watershed characteristics. We found significant differences among the effectiveness of prioritization objectives; thus, trade‐offs should be taken into consideration when prioritizing crossings. The incorporation of spatial interdependency among crossings and weighting objectives could significantly change the cost‐effectiveness. We also found that splitting the budget and using a portion to individually prioritize each objective could be more cost‐effective than using the whole budget to achieve concurrent objectives. Watershed characteristics like size and connectivity‐ and sedimentation‐related factors could be used to help identify effective management for both connectivity restoration and sedimentation control.
Soil water and nitrogen dynamics from interaction of irrigation and fertilization management practices in a greenhouse vegetable rotation
Authors: Fan Yaqiong , Hao Xinmei , Ding Risheng , Kang Shaozhong
Published: February 2020

Quantifying the interactive effects of different irrigation and fertilization strategies on soil water and mineral N dynamics provides an important insight for developing more effective water and N use management practices. This experiment was carried out in a tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) (2016)–cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) (2016)–tomato (2017) rotation, with 12 treatments in total combining two irrigation methods (drip and furrow), two irrigation levels (high and low), and three fertilizer types (control [N0], organic N [N1], and inorganic N [N2]). Soil water content (SWC) and soil mineral N concentration were measured for soil depth of 0–80 cm. Relative to furrow irrigation, drip irrigation led to lower temporal variation and smaller differences between soil depths and treatments in SWC and soil NO3−–N concentration. A high irrigation level led to higher SWC and soil NO3−–N concentration for N1 and N2 treatments under drip irrigation, whereas furrow irrigation had the opposite results. About 42.8% mineral N (over soil depth of −20 to 80 cm) was stored at the ridge under furrow irrigation. Relative to the start of the experiment, N2 fertilizer application increased the soil mineral N content by about 450 kg ha−1, whereas N0 and N1 application decreased soil mineral N content by about 200 kg ha−1 by the end of the rotation. Yield for N1 was similar or higher than that of inorganic N treatments, with drip irrigation–high irrigation–organic N having the highest soil mineral N and the greatest yield, indicating that a combination of organic N fertilizer with appropriate irrigation practices can achieve the balance of high yield and low environmental risks.
Next generation sheltered instruction to support multilingual learners in secondary science classrooms
Authors: Buxton Cory A. , Caswell Linda
Published: February 2020

Using findings from a 4‐year research and development effort, we propose an updated model of sheltered instruction for science classrooms that leverages the opportunities provided by the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) to better support multilingual learners in middle and high school science. Using data from teacher implementation logs and interviews, we examine how secondary grades science teachers' participation in our professional learning framework and subsequent enactments of an initial set of project instructional practices led these teachers to articulate nuanced and strategic adaptations to the initial practices to better meet the needs of the multilingual learners in their classrooms. We found that teachers moved away from implementing sheltered instruction practices based on general principles or formal classifications, such as students' English language proficiency level, instead taking a more nuanced approach to adopting, adapting and rejecting practices based on perceived needs, assets, and personal knowledge about individual multilingual students in the specific disciplinary context of science. Based on this analysis, we conceptualize and refine what we now see as a new and exploratory set of Next Generation Sheltered Instruction practices for integrating science and language to support multilingual learners in secondary science classrooms in the age of the NGSS.
On the aggregation of published prognostic scores for causal inference in observational studies
Authors: Nguyen Tri‐Long , Collins Gary S. , Pellegrini Fabio , Moons Karel G.M. , Debray Thomas P.A.
Published: February 2020

As real world evidence on drug efficacy involves nonrandomized studies, statistical methods adjusting for confounding are needed. In this context, prognostic score (PGS) analysis has recently been proposed as a method for causal inference. It aims to restore balance across the different treatment groups by identifying subjects with a similar prognosis for a given reference exposure (“control”). This requires the development of a multivariable prognostic model in the control arm of the study sample, which is thenextrapolatedto the different treatment arms. Unfortunately, large cohorts for developing prognostic models are not always available. Prognostic models are therefore subject to a dilemma between overfitting and parsimony; the latter being prone to a violation of the assumption of no unmeasured confounders when important covariates are ignored. Although it is possible to limit overfitting by using penalization strategies, an alternative approach is to adopt evidence synthesis. Aggregating previously published prognostic models may improve the generalizability of PGS, while taking account of a large set of covariates—even when limited individual participant data are available. In this article, we extend a method for prediction model aggregation to PGS analysis in nonrandomized studies. We conduct extensive simulations to assess the validity of model aggregation, compared with other methods of PGS analysis for estimating marginal treatment effects. We show that aggregating existing PGS into a “meta‐score” is robust to misspecification, even when elementary scores wrongfully omit confounders or focus on different outcomes. We illustrate our methods in a setting of treatments for asthma.
The Effect of Preparation Conditions on Microbubble Flotation Process of Ultra Clean Coal Using Box Behnken Design Model
Authors: Hao Chengliang , Chu Mo , Wang Lingshuang , Zhou Lingmei
Published: February 2020

When coal is widely used as fuel, it also produces lower combustion efficiency and environmental pollution due to direct utilization of coal. The demineralization of coal to prepare ultra clean coal can improve utilization value and reduce pollutant emissions. Thus, Taixi anthracite is chosen to prepare ultra clean coal by microbubble flotation method. Box Behnken design (BBD), a response surface model is introduced as a factorial design of experiments setup and used to find those parameters, which affect the ash content and yield of ultra clean coal and to adjust these parameters in order to achieve the optimized effect. Especially, their interaction effect of different factors in flotation process could be explored by the mathematical model. To explore the mechanism of preparing ultra clean coal, X‐ray fluorescence (XRF), X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM‐EDS) results are analysed. Combining XRF with SEM‐EDS analysis, the concentrate is polluted by composite particles with particle size of less than 2 μm and organic matter accounting for more than 95 %. Through XRD and SEM‐EDS analysis, it can be shown that a small amount of fine clay minerals including kaolinite and illite agglomerate heterogeneously with coal particles during flotation and pollute concentrate. Further, the existence of composite particles and slime coatings were the main reason of limiting deep demineralization in microbubble flotation process.
A Synthetic Approach to PW2‐Like Compounds
Authors: Forastieri Pamela S. , Luna Liliana E. , Cravero Raquel M. , Labadie Guillermo R.
Published: February 2020

The 9H‐xanthene derivatives, like PW2, displayed a wide spectrum of bioactivities. Herein, we reported a rapid and simple synthetic route for compounds containing the xanthenic moiety in their structure and amides. The efficient preparation of novel 1,8‐dioxo‐2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9‐octahydro‐1‐xanthen‐9‐yl‐ acetic acid alkyl esters by multicomponent tandem Michael‐cyclization reactions starting from cyclohexanediones and alkynes is described. Iodine and cerium (IV) ammonium nitrate were used for the oxidative aromatization step proving a series of 1,8‐mono and dialkoxy‐alkyl‐xanthenyl‐9‐yl acetic acid esters in good yields. The proposed mechanism for the oxidative aromatization involves several organic transformations. The final step was the incorporation of an amide to mimic the PW2 structure that was prepared by hydrolysis of the esters, followed by the amide formation using N,N‐dimethyl‐1,3‐ propandiamine, and benzylamine.
Cyclodextrin‐Based Nanosponges for Improving Solubility and Sustainable Release of Curcumin
Authors: Gharakhloo Mosayeb , Sadjadi Samahe , Rezaeetabar Mahdi , Askari Fahimeh , Rahimi Azam
Published: February 2020

Considering the utility of cyclodextrin nanosponges for the encapsulation of drugs, in this study, the effect of drug loading method on the release property of the resulting complex is studied. To this purpose, curcumin as a model substrate was loaded into the cyclodextrin nanosponge via three different methods, including freeze drying, impregnation and physical mixing.All three complexes were characterized and the release profile of curcumin from them was investigated.
Sorbitol Cyclodehydration to Isosorbide Catalyzed by Acidic Carbon Obtained from Reaction By‐Product
Authors: Zhang Yi , Chen Tong , Zhang Gang , Wang Gongying , Zhang Hua
Published: February 2020

A carbonaceous solid acid catalyst obtained from by‐products of sorbitol dehydration process, was prepared via facile one‐step carbonization and sulfonation method. The results of various characterization technologies showed that as‐prepared acidic carbon bearing ‐SO3H, ‐COOH and ‐OH groups with Brønsted acid sites was effective for solvent‐free dehydration of sorbitol to produce isosorbide. Full complete sorbitol conversion with 72.1% isosorbide yield was achieved at 170 °C after 2 h reaction. Catalyst could be used for three cycles retaining the most of its initial catalytic activity. Importantly, the catalyst and reaction by‐products in this process could be easily recycled and facilely utilized, offering sustainable process in production of isosorbide from sorbitol.
Synthesis and Application of a Naphthol‐Based Fluorescent Probe for Mercury(II) Detection
Authors: Wu Xiaoming , Duan Ning , Yang Shaoxiang , Tian Hongyu , Sun Baoguo
Published: February 2020

A sensitive analytical method for detecting trace levels of mercury(II) in diverse samples is desperately needed owing to its notoriously toxic. In this study, we have developed a novel fluorescent probe 2,2′‐((6‐hydroxynaphthalen‐2‐yl) methylene) bis (sulfanediyl) diacetic acid (Probe 1) for the sensitive detection of Hg2+. Probe 1 could detect Hg2+ content in CH3CN/buffer (pH 6.0) solution. Probe 1 has a low detection limit (1.34 nM) and the detection range was 0–8 μM. The luminescent intensity of Probe 1 in a CH3CN/buffer (pH 6.0) solution increased with the concentration of Hg2+ over two minutes, as observed under a 254 nm UV lamp. Furthermore, this phenomenon was observed using test papers of Probe 1. Importantly, Probe 1 could detect Hg2+ in wheat, mineral water, rice, tap water, and kelp samples.
Material Design and Fabrication Strategies for Stretchable Metallic Nanocomposites
Authors: Joo Hyunwoo , Jung Dongjun , Sunwoo Sung‐Hyuk , Koo Ja Hoon , Kim Dae‐Hyeong
Published: February 2020

Stretchable conductive nanocomposites fabricated by integrating metallic nanomaterials with elastomers have become a vital component of human‐friendly electronics, such as wearable and implantable devices, due to their unconventional electrical and mechanical characteristics. Understanding the detailed material design and fabrication strategies to improve the conductivity and stretchability of the nanocomposites is therefore important. This Review discusses the recent technological advances toward high performance stretchable metallic nanocomposites. First, the effect of the filler material design on the conductivity is briefly discussed, followed by various nanocomposite fabrication techniques to achieve high conductivity. Methods for maintaining the initial conductivity over a long period of time are also summarized. Then, strategies on controlled percolation of nanomaterials are highlighted, followed by a discussion regarding the effects of the morphology of the nanocomposite and postfabricated 3D structures on achieving high stretchability. Finally, representative examples of applications of such nanocomposites in biointegrated electronics are provided. A brief outlook concludes this Review.
Synthesis Protocols of the Most Common Layered Carbide and Nitride MAX Phases
Authors: Haemers Joachim , Gusmão Rui , Sofer Zdeněk
Published: February 2020

MAX phases represent a large group of carbide‐ and nitride‐layered ternary compounds. Their general formula is Mn+1AXn, where n = 1–3, M is an early transition metal, A is an A‐group element, and X is either carbon or nitrogen. The MAX phases combine properties of metals (good electrical and thermal conductivity, machinability, low hardness, thermal shock resistance, and damage tolerance) with those of ceramics (high elastic moduli, temperature strength, and oxidation and corrosion resistance). Publications on MAX phases have increased considerably in recent years. A late development causing heightened interest in MAX phases is the possibility by which these can be selectively etched to MXenes by removal of the A‐group element. In view of optimizing properties for prospective applications, the synthesis protocols of some of the most common carbide and nitride MAX phases are reviewed. Characterization of their physical, mechanical, and corrosion/oxidation properties is also discussed. Recent developments have revealed the potential for further practical application and have led to accessible strategies to synthesize new MAX phases using the pressure‐less sintering, spark plasma sintering, or molten salt routes.
Introducing Oxygen Defects into Phosphate Ions Intercalated Manganese Dioxide/Vertical Multilayer Graphene Arrays to Boost Flexible Zinc Ion Storage
Authors: Zhang Yan , Deng Shengjue , Pan Guoxiang , Zhang Haozhe , Liu Bo , Wang Xun‐Li , Zheng Xusheng , Liu Qi , Wang Xiuli , Xia Xinhui , Tu Jiangping
Published: February 2020

Designed and fabricated flexible high‐performance MnO2 cathode materials are highly desirable for developing advanced rechargeable Zn–MnO2 batteries. In this work, a facile phosphorization process is reported for introducing oxygen defects into phosphate ions intercalated manganese dioxide/vertical multilayer graphene (VMG) arrays, forming an integrated P‐MnO2‐x@VMG cathode. The oxygen defects and phosphate ions intercalation are achieved simultaneously via phosphorization. The former can increase the electrical conductivity of MnO2, while the latter is able to expand its interlayer spacing accelerating ion transfer. Furthermore, flexible VMG conductive networks provide excellent peripheral charge transfer and endow the cathode with favorable mechanical strength. Benefiting from these virtues, the obtained P‐MnO2‐x@VMG cathode demonstrates high capacity (302.8 mAh g−1 at 0.5 A g−1) and long‐term cycling stability (>90% capacity retention after 1000 cycles at 2.0 A g−1) in aqueous electrolytes. More impressively, the P‐MnO2‐x@VMG cathode exhibits a high energy density of 369.5 Wh kg−1 in quasi‐solid‐state flexible devices (P‐MnO2‐x@VMG//Zn@VMG), and thereby shows great prospects for applications in wearable electronics. This work demonstrates a new synergistic way to construct high‐performance electrodes for energy storage toward divalent metal ions.
Accelerating the Hole Mobility of Graphitic Carbon Nitride for Photocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution via 2D/2D Heterojunction Structural Advantages and Ni(OH)2 Characteristic
Authors: Hao Quanguo , Song Yanhua , Mo Zhao , Deng Jiujun , Yi Jianjian , El-Alami Wiam , Xu Hui , Li Huaming
Published: February 2020

Although photocatalytic hydrogen evolution is significant for solar conversion and energy supply, the photocatalytic efficiency is hampered by the low photoinduced holes mobility. Herein, the 2D Ni(OH)2 as an operational cocatalyst is integrated with 2D graphitic carbon nitride (2D‐CN) ultrafine to form a 2D/2D heterojunction to improve the photocatalytic hydrogen evolution. Due to the high mobility attribute of the Ni(OH)2 holes and the unique 2D/2D heterojunction of Ni(OH)2/CN, the specific photocatalyst Ni(OH)2/2D‐CN accelerates the photocarrier separation/transport, thereby achieving the breakthrough of continuous photocatalytic hydrogen evolution without using Pt cocatalyst and sacrificial agent. Above all, the as‐obtained Ni(OH)2/2D‐CN exhibits a hydrogen evolution rate of 921.4 μmol h−1 g−1 with an external quantum efficiency of 5.21% at 400 nm using 10% triethanolamine as a sacrificial agent. The work provides a new research approach for the catalytic conversion of energy.
Deep‐Ultraviolet Photoactivation‐Assisted Contact Engineering Toward High‐Efficiency and Stable All‐Inorganic CsPbI2Br Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Zhou Long , Su Jie , Lin Zhenhua , Guo Xing , Ma Jing , Feng Liping , Zhang Jincheng , Wang Shen , Liu Shengzhong (Frank) , Chang Jingjing , Hao Yue
Published: February 2020

All‐inorganic perovskite CsPbI2Br have been regarded as a promising candidate to tackle the thermal instability issue of organic–inorganic perovskite solar cells. However, the serious interfacial charge recombination and large voltage potential loss in cells circumscribe their performance and commercialization. Herein, a facile approach is demonstrated in which the SnO2 electron transport layer is modified with short‐period deep‐ultraviolet (DUV) photoactivation process to decrease the work function and achieve better energy alignment with the conduction band of perovskites. Such modification triggers efficient charge transfer and reduces the charge recombination. Moreover, first‐principles calculation further demonstrates that DUV‐treated SnO2 can strengthen the interface interaction, reduce the interface stress caused by lattice mismatch, induce more ordered perovskite structure, enlarge transfer charge from 0.71 to 2.33 e, gain larger built‐in field (from 0.74 to 2.09 eV), lower work function, and smaller conduction band offset. Thus, all‐inorganic CsPbI2Br solar cells based on DUV‐treated SnO2 exhibit a significant enhancement in power conversion efficiency, and the champion cell achieves an elevated efficiency of 15.1% with a superior Voc of 1.22 V and better stability.
Bismuthiol‐Mediated Synthesis of Ordered Carbon Nitride Nanosheets with Enhanced Photocatalytic Performance
Authors: Karjule Neeta , Barrio Jesús , Tashakory Ayelet , Shalom Menny
Published: February 2020

The facile synthesis of ordered carbon nitride (CN) sheets with excellent photoactivity for hydrogen production and pollutant degradation is reported. To direct the synthesis of CN materials, sulfur‐based supramolecular assemblies composed of bismuthiol and melamine are utilized. Upon calcination at high temperature, CN materials with tunable morphology, porosity, and photophysical properties are obtained. The influence of several parameters including solvents, solubility, and monomer concentration are studied to determine their effect on the supramolecular assemblies and on the resulting CN properties and photoactivity. The best CN, prepared in dimethyl sulfoxide as the solvent, exhibits high specific surface area, beneficial electronic structure, and excellent photocatalytic activity for the hydrogen evolution reaction and the degradation of rhodamine B dye.
An Initial Report on the Structure–Property Relationships of a High‐Strength Low‐Alloy Steel Subjected to Advanced Thermomechanical Processing in Ferrite
Authors: Ledermueller Carina , Zhu Hongtao , Li Huijun , Primig Sophie
Published: February 2020

Advanced thermomechanical processing (aTMP) of high‐strength low‐alloy (HSLA) steels has been applied to achieve ultrafine ferrite grains decorated with nanoscale precipitates, clusters, and solute segregation, potentially leading to an increase in strength, toughness, and ductility. In our own previous research on a modern Mo–Ti–Nb HSLA steel processed in ferrite, this was only confirmed using hardness testing. Reports on the success of similar aTMP routes in achieving superior mechanical properties so far only provided results from subsize specimens or simpler steels under large strain conditions. Therefore, herein, an initial report on the mechanical properties of the previously studied Mo–Ti–Nb HSLA steel subjected to warm rolling and aging is provided. A reduction of 55% at 650 °C leads to an ultimate tensile strength (UTS) of 650 MPa, a yield to an ultimate tensile strength ratio of 0.95, and a total elongation of 14% in the as‐rolled condition, similar to mild steels deformed to larger strains. The low yield to UTS ratio is explained by precipitate coarsening. Delamination occurs in the low‐temperature region of Charpy impact testing in both longitudinal and transversal directions. Direct aging significantly increases the room temperature impact energy due to the onset of grain growth.
Debugging the Writing Process: Lessons From a Comparison of Students’ Coding and Writing Practices
Authors: Hassenfeld Ziva R. , Bers Marina Umaschi
Published: February 2020

Since the 1960s, a group of educators and researchers have championed the idea that learning coding and learning to read and write are, in some sense, part of the same skill set, but the grounds for asserting that similarity have continually shifted. Some have argued that as texts increasingly integrate digital components, expertise in coding will become a central part of reading in the 21st century. Others seem to use the wordliteracysimply to mean an important skill, without necessarily asserting a deeper similarity. In this study of novice writers and programmers in a second‐grade classroom, the authors explored a third hypothesis: that there is a fundamental relation between the activities involved in creating a written story and in creating a computer program. The findings of this research suggest that teachers can use a combination of coding and writing to reinforce students’ acquisition of the writing process.
First report of a canine morbillivirus infection in a giant anteater (Myrmecophaga tridactyla) in Brazil
Authors: Debesa Belizário Granjeiro Melissa , Lima Kavasaki Mayara , Morgado Thais O. , Avelino Dandolini Pavelegini Lucas , Alves de Barros Marisol , Fontana Carolina , de Assis Bianchini Mateus , de Oliveira Souza Aneliza , Gonçalves Lima Oliveira Santos Amanda R. , Lunardi Michele , Colodel Edson M. , de Aguiar Daniel M. , Jorge Mendonça Adriane
Published: February 2020

Canine morbillivirus, also known as canine distemper virus (CDV), induces a contagious multisystemic disease caused by an enveloped RNA virus belonging to the genus Morbillivirus within the family Paramyxoviridae. CDV replicates readily in epithelial, nerve and lymphoid tissues; it is excreted in urine, feces, saliva, oral and nasal discharge; and its major route of entry for infection is through the respiratory system. Although the virus was originally believed to infect domestic dogs, new studies have shown that it can also naturally or experimentally infect non‐domestic hosts. A recent blood test performed on a giant anteater (Myrmecophaga tridactyla) found Lentz inclusions in the animal's leucocytes. A rapid CDV test, an RT‐PCR assay and pathology findings confirmed this report of canine morbillivirus in this species, which corresponds to the second report of CDV infection in the order Pilosa, family Myrmecophagidae in central west Brazil.
Machine‐learning scoring functions for structure‐based drug lead optimization
Authors: Li Hongjian , Sze Kam‐Heung , Lu Gang , Ballester Pedro J.
Published: February 2020

Molecular docking can be used to predict how strongly small‐molecule binders and their chemical derivatives bind to a macromolecular target using its available three‐dimensional structures. Scoring functions (SFs) are employed to rank these molecules by their predicted binding affinity (potency). A classical SF assumes a predetermined theory‐inspired functional form for the relationship between the features characterizing the structure of the protein–ligand complex and its predicted binding affinity (this relationship is almost always assumed to be linear). Recent years have seen the prosperity of machine‐learning SFs, which are fast regression models built instead with contemporary supervised learning algorithms. In this review, we analyzed machine‐learning SFs for drug lead optimization in the 2015–2019 period. The performance gap between classical and machine‐learning SFs was large and has now broadened owing to methodological improvements and the availability of more training data. Against the expectations of many experts, SFs employing deep learning techniques were not always more predictive than those based on more established machine learning techniques and, when they were, the performance gain was small. More codes and webservers are available and ready to be applied to prospective structure‐based drug lead optimization studies. These have exhibited excellent predictive accuracy in compelling retrospective tests, outperforming in some cases much more computationally demanding molecular simulation‐based methods. A discussion of future work completes this review.

This article is categorized under:

Computer and Information Science > Chemoinformatics
Breeding biology of the endangered Yellow Cardinal Gubernatrix cristata in Brazil
Authors: Beier Christian , Fontana Carla Suertegaray
Published: February 2020

The Yellow Cardinal,Gubernatrix cristata, has a small geographic range in Brazil, Uruguay, and Argentina. We studied the natural history of the only known Brazilian population of this “Endangered” species (∼50 individuals), which is socially monogamous and may breed cooperatively. During two breeding seasons (October to February 2013–2015), we monitored nests and described the main breeding traits. The breeding season started from the first week of October, with a peak of active nests in mid-November and lasted until mid-February. We found 32 nests, of which 30 were monitored. Female built the open-cup nests in six days (n= 1). All nests were built onProsopistrees, on average at 2.4 m from the ground. Modal clutch size was three eggs (n= 19), and female incubated for 13 days on average (n= 7). Hatching rate was 76% and nestlings fledged after 16 days (n= 6). Nestling survival rate was 67% with mean productivity of 1.6 fledglings/successful nest. Shiny Cowbird,Molothrus bonariensis, parasitized nests of the Yellow Cardinal, with a frequency of 67% and intensity of 1.9 egg per parasitized nest (1–4 eggs;n= 13). Parasitism in nestlings by botfly larvae (Philornissp.) occurred in 33% of nests with nestlings. Nest predation was the main cause of nest losses (73%) and we recorded a Geoffroy’s Cat,Leopardus geoffroyi, preying on a nest with eggs. The probability of success using the Program MARK was 13%. Fledgling survival rate during the first month outside the nest was 62% (8/13 fledglings). We found a longer breeding season, occurrence of second broods, and higher rates but fewer nest losses due to brood parasitism in comparison to the Argentinian population. We highlight the importance of natural history studies for the conservation of different populations of the same species.
Observation of Audouin’s Gull Ichthyaetus audouinii in Suriname on South American mainland
Authors: Kasius Bert , Witkamp Cees , Ingels Johan
Published: February 2020

After a first-year Audouin’s Gull Ichthyaetus audouinii was spotted in Trinidad on 10 December 2016, a second-year individual was now seen and photographed on 22 March 2018 in the mouth of the Suriname River near Paramaribo in Suriname. This record is the first of this species for that country and for mainland South America.
Distinguishing females of capuchino seedeaters: call repertoires provide evidence for species-level diagnosis
Authors: Repenning Márcio , Fontana Carla Suertegaray
Published: February 2020

Reliable identification of cryptic Neotropical capuchino seedeater females remains as a recurrent and non-trivial issue in field ornithology. Even in the hand, capuchino females cannot be accurately diagnosed to the species level based solely on visual plumage examination, which may present a problem for future research on this group. During 10 years of field research on this group, we observed subtle vocal differences. We studied females of two parapatric species that may breed in syntopic upland grassland areas in southern Brazil: Tawny-bellied SeedeaterSporophila hypoxanthaand Black-bellied SeedeaterSporophila melanogaster. Our main aim was to measure dissimilarities between inter-specific and intersexual repertory calls. We found unequivocal inter-specific divergences in call type repertoires revealed by cluster analysis, and no intersexual differences in the co-specific repertoire calls. These combined results enhance the understanding about the role of repertoire calls on species-specific recognition and interbreeding isolation processes (assortative mating), and provide a way to overcome the problem of field identification of female capuchinos at the species level.
The avifauna of the Catimbau National Park, an important protected area in the Brazilian semiarid
Authors: Las-Casas Flor Maria Guedes , da Pereira Iolanda Maria Silva , dos Santos Lilia D’ark Nunes , Naka Luciano Nicolás
Published: February 2020

The Catimbau National Park is a protected area, located within the Caatinga Dry Forest, in the central region of the Brazilian state of Pernambuco. This protected area encompasses ~60,000 ha of an exceptional diversity of habitats, resulting in a high avian diversity, including several rare and endemic species. The park is considered an area of high biological importance and of conservation priority. Despite its relevance for conservation, human degradation due to chronic anthropogenic disturbances (hunting, birds trapping, selective logging, and livestock grazing) has modified the park’s natural environments. In 2014, we initiated avian inventories within the park, as part of a long-term ecological research (LTER). Although the avifauna of the park has been described before, our systematic surveys allowed us to have a better understating of the park’s avifauna and resulted in several additions to the species list. Here, we update and reevaluate the park’s avifauna, discuss the presence of resident and migratory species, and include comments on endemic and rare species that occur within the park’s boundaries. We sampled the avifauna through systematic surveys (point counts) and opportunistic observations between 2014 and 2017, including both dry and rainy seasons. We recorded a total of 192 species, including 25 species new to the park’s list. During our point counts, we detected 117 species in the dry season, whereas 34 were recorded exclusively during the rainy season. Nearly 10% of the park’s avifauna (19 species) is represented by migratory species, such as Elaenia chilensis and Turdus amaurochalinus. Catimbau National Park is important for the conservation of the Caatinga avifauna, since it harbors endemic, range-restricted, migratory, and globally threatened species. Therefore, we emphasize that environmental education and ecological restoration projects, allied to enforcing environmental laws are urgent for the maintenance of biodiversity and ecosystem services in the Catimbau National Park.
Habitat use and home range of a migratory bird, Myiodynastes maculatus solitarius, in an urban park in the Atlantic Forest, Brazil
Authors: Vitório Juliana Gomes , de Frenedozo Rita Cássia , de Barbosa Karlla Vanessa Camargo
Published: February 2020

Detailed studies on the home range size and habitat use of a species are important for the understanding of population dynamics and density. The Southern Streaked Flycatcher (Myiodynastes maculatus solitarius) is a common, widely distributed austral migrant in Brazil that inhabits open areas, forest edges and urban parks. Surprisingly, very little information exists on even basic aspects of its natural history, and details about its habitat use and home range are essentially unknown. We estimated home range size and habitat selection byM. m. solitariusduring the 2017–2018 breeding season at Parque Ecológico do Tietê, an urban park in São Paulo, Brazil. We mist-netted and banded three adult individuals, which were followed for a total of 91 h and 50 min to assess their habitat use and home range. Home range size was 5.40 ± 2.45 ha (95% kernel density) and 2.46 ± 1.70 ha (50% kernel density). We obtained 428 sight records of the three individuals, and the strata most frequently used were the canopy and mid-story, in some places with a relatively high percentage of tree cover. These individuals had a clear preference for forested areas (n= 408), as compared to isolated trees in open areas (n= 20). This study contributes to enhance our knowledge of the natural history of the species and offers important new data on various aspects related to the use of space. These results also suggest that urban green areas promote the occurrence of this species in cities, using urban parks to breed and as stopover sites during migration.
Beyond a feeding and thermoregulatory structure: toucan’s bill as a sword and pincer
Authors: de Guaraldo André Camargo , Antqueves Letícia Mara Ceolin , Manica Lilian Tonelli
Published: February 2020

Toucans (Ramphastidae) have always attracted researcher’s attention for their exuberant bill shape and size, which function has been often related to feeding strategies and thermal regulation. In this study, we discuss the importance and use of the bill by Ramphastidae species in intraspecific disputes. We present novel data and video recordings on agonistic encounters between females of the Spot-billed Toucan Selenidera maculirostris, along with a compilation of data from the Brazilian citizen science platform WikiAves and previous studies on six other Ramphastidae species. Until now, only a couple of species was known for using their bill in fights against conspecifics. Our study highlights the between-species behavioral similarities and the widespread occurrence of such behavior in the family, suggesting that this may be more common than previously thought and proposing hypotheses on the likely roles of such intraspecific contests.