bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Extending ethnic humour theory: Genuine vs. functional ethnic jokе scripts
Authors: Takovski Aleksandar
Published: November 2018

Most ethnic humour that has been studied so far consists of jokes which use ethnically non-specific qualities such as stupidity or canniness in order to ridicule an ethnic group and thus to preserve and perpetuate ethnically based social hierarchies in western industrial societies. In light of this dominant logic in ethnic humour theory, the objective of this study is to problematize the relation of such non-ethnic qualities and the notion of ethnic identity, as well as their relation to a specific type of society, in an attempt to convincingly argue in favour of the need to differentiate between ‘ethnically-empty’ functional joke scripts and genuine ethnic joke scripts that are related to the ethnic identity of the target. In so doing, I extend ethnic humour theory by introducing and testing the notion of genuine ethnic joke scripts in order to motivate future research that will tackle other potential ethnic humour idiosyncrasies. Toward this end, I have collected and analysed joke material (N=369) coming from Macedonia, Bulgaria, Serbia, and Albania, societies with histories and relations very different that those in the western industrial societies. Additionally, the study incorporates two questionnaires with members of the two largest ethnicities in the Republic of Macedonia, Macedonians and Albanians, to ascertain the relation between the genuine ethnic humour and ethnic identity.
Lyrical lessons: The potential of informative comedy music as supplementary teaching material
Authors: McKeague Matthew
Published: November 2018

The comedic arts have provided opportunities for humourists to spread information to audiences, sometimes intentionally and other times as a side effect while trying to create laughter. Educators have also found success incorporating comedy into the classroom with humorous activities. While research regarding comedy as a tool to spread information or educate audiences has focused primarily on literature, broadcast media, and film, the area of informative comedy implemented through music remains relatively unexplored. In this paper, the researcher defines ‘informative comedy’ and takes a critical literacy approach analysing song samples of comedy musician “Weird Al” Yankovic—one of the notable comedic music artists in the 20th and 21st centuries—and discusses how his music could be used in a classroom setting. While comedy such as Yankovic’s is not designed to be an educational tool, the researcher suggests that his songs could be used as supplementary materials in the classroom to reinforce concepts specifically regarding cultural issues through commentary as well as lessons in science and grammar. A central aspect of this exploratory paper involves Yankovic’s mix of comedy andinformative content focused on culture in the United States, using the popular music genre to convey ideas in ways that may be more palatable for wider audiences and that could be used to assist classroom instruction.
Skin bacterial diversity is higher on lizards than sympatric frogs in tropical Australia
Authors: Weitzman Chava L. , Gibb Karen , Christian Keith
Published: November 2018

Animal skin acts as a barrier between the organism and its environment and provides the first line of defense against invading pathogens. Thus, skin surfaces harbor communities of microbes that are interacting with both the host and its environment. Amphibian skin bacteria form distinct communities closely tied to their host species, but few studies have compared bacterial communities between amphibians and other, non-amphibian sympatric animals. Notably, skin microbes on reptiles have gained little attention. We used next-generation sequencing technology to describe bacterial communities on the skin of three lizard species and compared them to bacteria on six cohabiting frog species in the Northern Territory of Australia. We found bacterial communities had higher richness and diversity on lizards than frogs, with different community composition between reptiles and amphibians and among species. Core bacteria on the three lizard species overlapped by over 100 operational taxonomic units. The bacterial communities were similar within species of frogs and lizards, but the communities tended to be more similar between lizard species than between frog species and when comparing lizards with frogs. The diverse bacteria found on lizards invites further questions on how and how well reptiles interact with microorganisms through their scaly skin.
Healthcare Facilities and Services: Correlates to the Clinical Nursing Care for Patients with Psycho-Behavioral Pathologies in Lanao Del Sur
Authors: Abdulbasit Omira , Hassim Anieraida H. , Gallego Randy Ian
Published: November 2018

Mental health, for some time has been a facet downplayed to be of lesser importance due to its very mystical nature causing it to be habitually ignored. Albeit the case, mental illness and its similar disturbances can become so significantly serious that it can encroach on and impair the day-to-day activities of its stricken victims. This study examined the extent of preliminary clinical care provided by nurses to clients with unique psychological needs. It used the descriptive-correlational design through a validated and reliability-tested instrument responded by 113 staff nurses from six hospitals around Lanao del Sur. It involved the statistical analysis of data using frequency, weighted mean, and Pearson correlation. In addition, a triangulation procedure was also employed to incorporate qualitative narrative comments of the respondents through follow-up informant interviews and journal writing.  The survey revealed that hospitals in the study locale do not have personnel with qualified specializations to attend to the needs of clients with psycho-behavioral manifestations. Moreover, the institutions did not have adequate physical facilities and equipment to aid in the appropriate diagnosis and management of mental conditions. It also showed that the availability of mental healthcare services, facilities, and personnel were significantly correlated to the extent of preliminary clinical nursing care. Hence, it can be regarded that these factors have a strong bearing and influence on the quality and extent of clinical care received by patients.
Structured Mentoring Strategies: Its Correlation to the Clinical, Leadership and Research Skills of Novice Nurses
Authors: Gallego Randy Ian
Published: November 2018

Mentoring activities in the clinical area by nurse supervisors are helping the entry-level nurses to the social milieu of the hospital to ensure that competencies are set, so that safe and competent patient care is delivered. Hence, this study examined the senior staff nurses’ mentoring activities and their relationship to the nursing skill development as perceived by the novice nurses in Lanao del Norte, Philippines. The study used descriptive-inferential research design involving 71 novice-nurse respondents. The data obtained were analyzed using the Pearson correlation. The findings revealed that while in general, mentoring activities given by the senior nurses indicate an increased competence in the nursing skills of the novice nurses as safe practitioners; it also showed partial impact regarding the competencies on leadership and research. The mentoring activities on conducting scientific inquiry further revealed a significant correlation with the nursing proficiency of the respondents as competent practitioners, managers, and researchers. Therefore, the study concludes that activities geared towards coaching and mentoring neophyte nurses in the clinical areas have a beneficial influence on the development of their needed core competencies in nursing practice. Formally structured preceptorship programs should be adapted to help novice nurses become more apposite, responsive and streamlined care practitioners.
Teacher-Made Comic Strip: A Strategic Intervention Material in Teaching Fundamental Operations on Integers
Authors: Uy Edison
Published: November 2018

A relatively large share of students often struggles in learning fundamental operations on integers because they express general dislike to its context for it has numerous rules that lead to confusion. In this perspective, the study proposed a teacher-made comic strip entitled Numerolandia: The Chosen One as an alternative way to increase and strengthen students’ knowledge and understanding of the fundamental operations on integers. It aimed to investigate its effectiveness to the identified bottom 20 students (based on the latest average in mathematics) of Grade Seven section Amethyst of Pangdan National High School, Catbalogan City during S.Y. 2017-2018. Quasi-experimental research design with one group pre-test post-test design was used. Thus, the comic strip was given to the student-participants for them to read and answer all the activities provided in it, and two questionnaires were served: one was about the assessment on fundamental operations on integers, and another was about the extent of acceptance on the comic strip. Thus, it was found out that the comic strip was an effective way of improving students’ knowledge and skills as it showed a notable positive 7.7 increase in their scores when they were exposed to this intervention and as to the degree of acceptance, based on the given indicators the student participants agreed to accept it strongly. Therefore, it is recommended that Mathematics teachers should innovate their teaching styles and strategies to fortify the students’ learning process like the use of a comic strip.
Personality Traits, Beliefs, Race or Ethnicity, Language, and Religion as Contributors to Job Discrimination Towards Meranaw Job Applicants
Authors: Maunting Raimah , Guimba Sonayah
Published: November 2018

In a highly competitive environment where job-seekers are vying against a pool of equally competent job applicants, the challenge to provide equal employment opportunity against ethnic and racial biases still overshadows the employers' principle of "merit and fitness." This study focused on the mechanisms of culture such as personality traits, beliefs, race or ethnicity, language, and religion that link to job discrimination among Meranaw job applicants and its implication to personnel management. It attempted to find out the correlation between the profile of the said minorities and the mechanisms of culture that link to job discrimination among them. In this study, the descriptive correlational design was utilized, and a survey was conducted to eighty-seven (87) respondents through the distribution of a researcher-structured questionnaire. By the data gathered, the findings revealed that respondents agreed that mechanisms of culture such as personality traits, beliefs, race or ethnicity, language, and religion contribute to job discrimination among Meranaw job applicants while profile has no significant relationship with most of the mechanisms identified. The study concludes that job discrimination based on culture towards Meranaws does exist, and the devices above of culture have a significant impact on the chance of Meranaw job applicants to be afforded with equal job opportunities in any workplace hierarchy.
Sighting the New Moon as the Methodology for Determining the Month of Ramadhan
Authors: Umpa Morad Sabdullah
Published: November 2018

Muslim communities are known to be united, but every year, towards the start of Ramadhan, some of them argue which started to be divided over the issue on the determination of the start of the blessed month. This study aimed to investigate the different options proposed for the determination of the month of Ramadhan including local and global sighting; Number of witnesses required; Size of Matla'; and Saudi Sighting Process and its implications. Data were gathered through an in-depth study using the descriptive method. The objectives were to determine the universally accepted legal opinion on sighting the New Moon in connection with the elimination of differences that frequently surface and for ensuring the celebration of 'Eid on a single day in one lunar unit. Based on the findings, it is revealed that sighting the new moon must be conducted in each locality because there are Multiple Horizons (the time at which the moon rises, varies from place to place). Muslims must show unity during the month of Ramadhan and at the occasions of 'Eid at least locally if not nationally or internationally. This would be of great value and importance to the whole Muslim nation by fostering the initial steps towards united observance of Ramadhan.
Uncertain Living: Challenges of Orphans in the Philippines
Authors: Vergara John Mark , Angeles Ladee Abigail , Pagkalinawan Ashley Angel , Villafranca Maurice
Published: November 2018

Orphan studies are scarce internationally and locally. However, the implications of these orphans are tantamount to the society's effort to advancement. One of the problems that the Philippines need to address is its status on the abandoned, neglected and orphaned children. The country has an abandoned children problem (Kaiman & De Leon, 2016). About 1.8 million children in the Philippines are under the status of abandoned or neglected. This phenomenological study focused on the experiences, aspirations, and fears of orphaned children living in and outside the orphanage. The study sought ethical clearance from the ethics committee to ensure that ethical standards were observed. Trustworthiness and rigor were ensured through member checking. Measures to protect participants' confidentiality and anonymity were followed. Five (5) participants were purposively chosen through criterion sampling and data were collected through semi-structured interview. Narratives were transcribed verbatim and reflectively analyzed using Collaizi's (1978) Procedural Steps. Analyzed narratives revealed three (3) dominant themes: (1) Nay, Tay, Bakit? Questions of Sufferings, (2) Paglaho ng Alaala: Standing Anchored in the Ground (3) Bakas ng Nakalipas: A Choice to Move Forward. The study revealed that the orphans underwent social, emotional, mental, spiritual and physical difficulties as an orphaned child. The study includes suggestions and recommendations for exploring the health and nutritional status and psychological well-being of an orphan.
O papel da mulher no turismo rural: um estudo no circuito Rajadinha de Planaltina - Distrito Federal
Authors: Duarte Donária Coelho , Pereira Ana Darc Jesus
Published: November 2018

Este estudo objetiva investigar a realidade das mulheres que trabalham no turismo rural da região de Planaltina-DF. Contribui, portanto, para a temática gênero e turismo, sobremaneira, relacionando ao turismo rural. Este, enquanto submodalidade do Turismo no Espaço Rural (TER), surge como segmento do campo e integra a gama de atividades não agrícolas que passaram a ser desenvolvidas no campo nos últimos anos como estratégia de manutenção e sobrevivência. Simultânea a essas mudanças funcionais do espaço rural, observam-se novas formas de organização da vida familiar, no qual a proximidade entre as tarefas realizadas no ambiente doméstico com a atividade turística no meio rural permite a reestruturação das funções e da divisão de trabalho entre gêneros. Dessa forma, este estudo foi realizado no Circuito Rajadinha, Projeto criado em 2014 na região de Planaltina-DF. Das 10 propriedades que compõem o Circuito, oito participaram do estudo e dessas 10 mulheres foram investigadas.  Este trabalho caracteriza-se como estudo de caso de cunho qualitativo. Aplicou-se um roteiro de entrevista semi-estruturado na busca de entender a realidade das mulheres que atuam diretamente no desenvolvimento do turismo rural no Circuito. Constatou-se que o turismo rural promovido estabelece uma relação positiva entre mulheres e homens envolvidos. Observou-se que no Circuito a mão de obra feminina não é vista apenas como atividade complementar, mas atua como elemento essencial para a manutenção do turismo rural nas propriedades investigadas e assume papel principal desse cenário rural.
O problema da política pública e o Plano da Secretaria de Economia Criativa
Authors: Querette Emanoel
Published: November 2018

A definição do problema da política pública, adequado às necessidades e interesses locais, é determinante no seu sucesso, especialmente na América Latina. A Economia Criativa, setor que articula cultura e desenvolvimento econômico e social, tem sido alvo de políticas em todo mundo. No entanto, observam-se problemas na delimitação do setor e uma diversidade de propósitos das políticas, em função de aspectos políticos e ideológicos. Este artigo analisa o Plano da Secretaria de Economia Criativa do MinC, proposição de política pública para o setor no Brasil, com especial atenção à enunciação do problema. A proposta brasileira se mostrou crítica e informada, mas não sanou completamente os problemas conceituais, e, assim como em outros países, refletia uma agenda particular do governo em exercício.
Políticas de interculturalidade na educação escolar indígena: o RCNEI e o ensino de artes visuais
Authors: Freire Luane Maciel , Ramon Paulo Caldas Ribeiro , Faustino Rosangela Célia
Published: November 2018

Neste texto analisamos as políticas educacionais da interculturalidade voltadas às populações indígenas, em especifico, investigamos o ensino de arte no Referencial Curricular Nacional para as Escolas Indígenas (RCNEI). Com uma abordagem crítica, realizamos a análise do RCNEI a partir de três perspectivas: a relacional, a funcional e a crítica. Nesta, constatamos a convergência da abordagem relacional e funcional, onde as diferenças culturais estão restritas ao intercâmbio entre culturas e a retórica da tolerância, visando à construção de uma política de inclusão dos povos historicamente excluídos, na agenda das reformas neoliberais. Assim, no ensino de arte são exaltadas as esferas simbólicas e culturais, deslocadas da realidade indígena, o que provoca o ocultamento das condições materiais destes povos.
Teatro carioca sob a crise do fomento: do empreendedorismo ao ativismo cultural
Authors: Guenzburger Gustavo
Published: November 2018

O presente artigo busca traçar um mapeamento preliminar de alguns desafios para a produção e a pesquisa do teatro carioca, no contexto de cortes dramáticos no fomento à cultura. É sugerido aqui que só a coletivização do impulso empreendedor dos agentes teatrais seria capaz de forjar uma justificativa pública para o fomento ao teatro, frente ao Estado e frente à sociedade. Para a pesquisa, uma nova historiografia teatral se faz necessária, capaz de incorporar os novos modos de produção, o associativismo e o ativismo, além das novas narrativas históricas surgidas de dentro dos próprios movimentos que lutam contra o desmantelamento das políticas culturais.
Música e ação política, Brasil 2003/2016
Authors: Machado Cacá
Published: November 2018

A partir da análise de documentos produzidos pelo Ministério da Cultura do Brasil entre 2003 e 2016, este ensaio propõe construir algumas perspectivas interpretativas sobre o tecido histórico que envolve as relações entre o setor musical e a política cultural. Sob o duplo ponto de vista do historiador da cultura e da experiência do gestor público, o autor se situa ao mesmo tempo com sujeito e objeto do tema.
Aspectos de uma Política Pública para Museus no Brasil
Authors: Vial Andréa Dias
Published: November 2018

O artigo discute aspectos fundamentais da operação de um museu que devem, necessariamente, ser considerados no momento da elaboração de políticas públicas e/ou planos setoriais de museus. Trata de alguns pontos a serem considerados, iniciando pela definição de museu, dos seus objetivos, qual a lógica da sua operação, as relações internas entre os setores do museu, buscando ostrar por meio das atividades cotidianas, a relação com os eixos apontados na Política Nacional de Museus, no Estatuto de Museus e no Plano Setorial Nacional de Museus.
Metals, Alloys, and Intermetallic Compounds
Authors: Krauth Helmut , Schlenga Klaus
Published: November 2018

The article contains sections titled:

Introduction

TypeIand TypeIISuperconductor Elements and High‐Field Alloys

Superconducting Intermetallic Compounds

Pinning in Hard TypeIISuperconductors

Design Principles of Technical Conductors

Wire Manufacturing Routes and Properties

Built‐Up and Cabled Conductors

Concluding Remarks

Acknowledgments
Cuprate High‐Temperature Superconductors
Authors: Hott Roland , Wolf Thomas
Published: November 2018

The article contains sections titled:

Introduction

Structural Aspects

Metallurgical Aspects

Structure and

T
c

Superconductive Coupling
Properties of Bulk Materials
Authors: Fuchs Günter , Krabbes Gernot , Canders Wolf‐Rüdiger
Published: November 2018

The most relevant properties of bulk melt‐textured high‐
T
c
superconductors for their application as trapped field magnets are considered. First of all, large portions of the
H
–
T
plane in bulk REBa
2
Cu
3
O
7‐x
(RE‐123, with RE = Y, Nd, Sm or Gd are dominated by thermal fluctuations and the liquid vortex phase at high temperatures and magnetic fields. Therefore, trapped fields in these compounds are limited by the irreversibility field
B
irr
instead of the upper critical field. The vortex matter phase diagram of bulk Y‐123 (YBCO) is presented in a large field range up to 40 T. The rather modest
B
irr
of ∼5T at 77 K increases for H∥
c
up to ∼ 40 T at 30 K. In contrast, high irreversibility fields of more than 12 T are achieved in bulk Gd‐123 already at 77 K. A central issue for any application of superconductors is to enhance critical currents by improved flux pinning. For bulk Gd‐123, the addition of ultra‐fine ballmilled Y‐211 powders was found to be very effective in improving flux pinning. Extremely high critical current densities up to 600 kA/cm
2
at 77 K were reported for bulk (Nd,Eu,Gd)‐123 by doping with tiny amounts of nanometer‐sized niobium particles. The trapped field in bulk RE‐123 is influenced by strong flux creep effects at 77 K which can be described in the frame of the collective creep model. A rather simple and very effective method is described in order to reduce the magnetic relaxation in bulk RE‐123. Furthermore, cracking is an important issue to be solved for superconducting permanent magnets, in which large forces arise by the interaction between magnetic fields and supercurrents. The typical microcracks in bulk RE‐123 are caused by the anisotropy of the thermal expansion of the RE‐123 lattice. Thus, mechanical and thermal properties are relevant for applications of bulk RE‐123. Selected mechanical and thermal properties of bulk YBCO are presented in the last paragraph.
YBCO
‐Coated Conductors
Authors: Parans Paranthaman Mariappan , Aytug Tolga , Stan Liliana , Jia Quanxi , Cantoni Claudia
Published: November 2018

The article contains sections titled:

Introduction

RABiTS
and
IBAD
Technology

Simplified
IBAD MgO
Template Based on Chemical Solution Processed

Al
2
O
3

Current Status of
2G HTS
Wires

Future Outlook

Acknowledgments
Transformers
Authors: Morandi Antonio
Published: November 2018

The article contains sections titled:

Introduction

Basic Aspects

Construction Issues and State of the Art of Superconducting Transformers

State‐of‐the‐Art Superconducting Transformers

Design and Economic Evaluation of a
HTS
Power Transformer
SmartGrids: Motivations, Stakes, and Perspectives/Opportunities for Superconductivity
Authors: Hadjsaid Nouredine , Tixador Pascal , Sabonnadiere Jean‐Claude , Gandioli Camille , Alvarez‐Hérault Marie‐Cécile
Published: November 2018

The article contains sections titled:

Introduction

TheEuropean Energy Prospective

Main Triggers of the Development of theSmartGrids

Definitions of theSmartGrids

Objectives Addressed by the TransmissionSmartGrids

Objectives Addressed by the DistributionSmartGrids

Examples of Development of Innovative Concepts

Scientific, Technological, Economical, and Sociological Challenges

Opportunities for Superconductivity

Conclusion
SQUIDs
in Laboratory Applications
Authors: Fagaly Robert L.
Published: November 2018

The article contains sections titled:

Introduction

Applications

Laboratory Applications
SQUIDsin Biomagnetism
Authors: Nowak Hannes
Published: November 2018

The article contains sections titled:

Biomagnetism

History

Biomagnetic Fields

Gradiometers

Shielding: Magnetically and Electrically Shielded Rooms

Dewar/Cryostat

Commercial Biomagnetic Measurement Devices

Special Biomagnetic Measurement Devices and Applications

High‐TcSQUIDsin Biomagnetism

Conclusion
ScanningSQUIDMicroscopy
Authors: Kirtley John
Published: November 2018

The article contains sections titled:

Introduction

Magnetic Microscopies

Brief History ofSQUIDMicroscopy

Basics

Scanning and Thermal Isolation

Imaging Modes

Applications
Solution‐Processed Metal Oxide Nanocrystals as Carrier Transport Layers in Organic and Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Ouyang Dan , Huang Zhanfeng , Choy Wallace C. H.
Published: November 2018

There has been rapid progress in solution‐processed organic solar cells (OSCs) and perovskite solar cells (PVSCs) toward low‐cost and high‐throughput photovoltaic technology. Carrier (electron and hole) transport layers (CTLs) play a critical role in boosting their efficiency and long‐time stability. Solution‐processed metal oxide nanocrystals (SMONCs) as a promising CTL candidate, featuring robust process conditions, low‐cost, tunable optoelectronic properties, and intrinsic stability, offer unique advantages for realizing cost‐effective, high‐performance, large‐area, and mechanically flexible photovoltaic devices. In this review, the recent development of SMONC‐based CTLs in OSCs and PVSCs is summarized. This paper starts with the discussion of synthesis approaches of SMONCs. Then, a broad range of SMONC‐based CTLs, including hole transport layers and electron transport layers, are reviewed, in which an emphasis is placed on the improvement of the efficiency and device stability. Finally, for the better understanding of the challenges and opportunities on SMONC‐based CTLs, several strategies and perspectives are outlined.
Conjugated Block Copolymers as Model Systems to Examine Mechanisms of Charge Generation in Donor–Acceptor Materials
Authors: Aplan Melissa P. , Grieco Christopher , Lee Youngmin , Munro Jason M. , Lee Wonho , Gray Jennifer L. , Seibers Zach D. , Kuei Brooke , Litofsky Joshua H. , Kilbey S. Michael , Wang Qing , Dabo Ismaila , Asbury John B. , Gomez Enrique D.
Published: November 2018

Fully conjugated donor–acceptor block copolymers are established as model systems to elucidate fundamental mechanisms of photocurrent generation in organic photovoltaics. Using analysis of steady‐state photoluminescence quenching, exciton dissociation to a charge transfer state within individual block copolymer chains is quantified. By making a small adjustment to the conjugated backbone, the electronic properties are altered enough to disrupt charge transfer almost entirely. Strong intermolecular coupling of the electron donor is introduced by synthesizing block copolymer nanoparticles. Transient absorption spectroscopy is used to monitor charge generation in block copolymer isolated chains and nanoparticles. While efficient charge transfer is observed in isolated chains, there is no indication of complete charge separation. In the nanoparticles, long‐lived polarons are observed as early as ≈15 ns. Thus, aggregation of electron donors can facilitate efficient charge generation.
Wood‐Inspired 3D‐Printed Helical Composites with Tunable and Enhanced Mechanical Performance
Authors: Zorzetto Laura , Ruffoni Davide
Published: November 2018

Helical fibers are versatile building blocks used by Nature to improve mechanical performance and to tune local behavior of load‐bearing materials. Helicoidal biocomposites are arranged in multiple layers with different fiber orientations. Such heterogeneity, not matched in synthetic materials, provides biological structures with superior properties. This is the case of the multilayer tube‐like structure of the wood cell wall, where each ply features a compliant matrix reinforced by stiff helicoidal microfibrils. Here, 3D polyjet printing and computer simulations are combined to investigate wood‐inspired helix‐reinforced cylinders. Composites with a main layer containing helicoidal fibers, bordered by inner and outer plies having thinner fibrils are considered. It is shown how the mechanical functionalities of the synthetic structures can be programmed by varying fibers/fibrils orientation and matrix compliance. It is demonstrated that failure resistance can be enhanced by enclosing the main helicoidal layer with a minimum amount of thin fibrils oriented perpendicular to the applied load, as observed in wood. Finite element simulations are used to highlight the critical role of the matrix in load‐transfer mechanisms among stiff elements. These structures have the potential to be assembled into larger systems, leading to graded composites with region‐specific properties optimized for multiple functionalities.
Tailoring Crystal Structure of FA0.83Cs0.17PbI3 Perovskite Through Guanidinium Doping for Enhanced Performance and Tunable Hysteresis of Planar Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Pham Ngoc Duy , Zhang Chunmei , Tiong Vincent Tiing , Zhang Shengli , Will Geoffrey , Bou Agustín , Bisquert Juan , Shaw Paul E. , Du Aijun , Wilson Gregory J , Wang Hongxia
Published: November 2018

Current–voltage hysteresis of perovskite solar cells (PSCs) has raised the concern of accurate performance measurement in practice. Although various theories have been proposed to elucidate this phenomenon, the origin of hysteresis is still an open question. Herein, the use of guanidinium cation (Gu+)‐dopant is demonstrated to tailor the crystal structure of mixed‐cation formamidinium‐cesium lead triiodide (FA0.83Cs0.17PbI3) perovskite, resulting in an improved energy conversion efficiency and tunable current–voltage hysteresis characteristic in planar solar cells. Particularly, when the concentration of Gu‐dopant for the perovskite film increases, the normal hysteresis initially observed in the pristine PSC is first suppressed with 2%‐Gu‐dopant, then changed to inverted hysteresis with a higher Gu‐dopant. The hysteresis tunability behavior is attributed to the interplay of charge/ion accumulation and recombination at interfaces in the PSC. Furthermore, compared to the cell without Gu+‐dopant, the optimal content of 2% Gu+‐dopant also increases the device efficiency by 14%, reaching over 17% under one sun illumination.
3D‐Printed MOF‐Derived Hierarchically Porous Frameworks for Practical High‐Energy Density Li–O2 Batteries
Authors: Lyu Zhiyang , Lim Gwendolyn J. H. , Guo Rui , Kou Zongkui , Wang Tingting , Guan Cao , Ding Jun , Chen Wei , Wang John
Published: November 2018

Aprotic Li–O2 batteries are promising candidates for next‐generation energy storage technologies owing to their high theoretical energy densities. However, their practically achievable specific energy is largely limited by the need for porous conducting matrices as cathode support and the passivation of cathode surface by the insulating Li2O2 product. Herein, a self‐standing and hierarchically porous carbon framework is reported with Co nanoparticles embedded within developed by 3D‐printing of cobalt‐based metal–organic framework (Co‐MOF) using an extrusion‐based printer, followed by appropriate annealing. The novel self‐standing framework possesses good conductivity and necessary mechanical stability, so that it can act as a porous conducting matrix. Moreover, the porous framework consists of abundant micrometer‐sized pores formed between Co‐MOF‐derived carbon flakes and meso‐ and micropores formed within the flakes, which together significantly benefit the efficient deposition of Li2O2 particles and facilitate their decomposition due to the confinement of insulating Li2O2 within the pores and the presence of Co electrocatalysts. Therefore, the self‐standing porous architecture significantly enhances the cell's practical specific energy, achieving a high value of 798 Wh kg−1cell. This study provides an effective approach to increase the practical specific energy for Li–O2 batteries by constructing 3D‐printed framework cathodes.
Facile Synthesis of Nanostructural High‐Performance Cu–Pb Electrocatalysts for CO2 Reduction
Authors: Wang Yutian , Hu Hanjun , Sun Yufan , Tang Yang , Dai Liming , Hu Qing , Fisher Adrian , Yang Xiao Jin
Published: November 2018

Nanostructure and crystallinity of transition metals play an important role in catalyzing carbon dioxide electroreduction (CO2ER) where Cu is a typical electrocatalyst with a wide variety of products and Pb has a high overpotential for H2 evolution and is selective toward formic acid. In this study, 3D hierarchical nanostructures of Cu–Pb catalyst are prepared by a two‐step electrodepositing–annealing–electroreduction approach (EAE). Cu nanowires (Cu NWs) of 200–400 nm diameter are built on the surface of commercial nickel foam substrates through an EAE step. Then, Pb nanoparticles with diameter of 5–10 nm are uniformly created on the surface of Cu NWs by a second EAE step. The nanostructural Cu–Pb electrodes catalyze CO2ER at a current density of −9.35 mA cm−2 (at −0.93 V vs reversible hydrogen electrode (RHE)). The H2 evolution is suppressed by 35.6% and CO and HCOOH are enhanced by 29.6% and 9.2%, respectively, as compared with Cu NWs. The protocol proposed in this study provides a simple and straightforward approach for preparing high‐performance, hierarchical nanostructures of Cu–Pb bimetal catalyst for CO2ER.
Catalytic Asymmetric Intermolecular Cyclopropanation of a Ketone Carbene Precursor by a Ruthenium(II)‐Pheox Complex
Authors: Chi Le Thi Loan , Suharto Agus , Da Ho Linh , Chanthamath Soda , Shibatomi Kazutaka , Iwasa Seiji
Published: November 2018

The diazo derivative of acetonyl acetate is a useful basic skeleton for the synthesis of cyclopropyl ketones. The intermolecular cyclopropanations of diazo acetoxy acetone with olefins are accomplished by using a novel p‐nitro‐Ru(II)‐diphenyl‐Pheox catalyst to give the corresponding optically active cyclopropane derivatives in good yields (up to 95%) with excellent diastereoselectivities (up to 99:1) and enantioselectivities (up to 98% ee).

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In Situ Polyphosphate Nanoparticle Formation in Hybrid Poly(vinyl alcohol)/Karaya Gum Hydrogels: A Porous Scaffold Inducing Infiltration of Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Tolba Emad , Wang Xiaohong , Ackermann Maximilian , Neufurth Meik , Muñoz‐Espí Rafael , Schröder Heinz C. , Müller Werner E. G.
Published: November 2018

The preparation and characterization of a porous hybrid cryogel based on the two organic polymers, poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) and karaya gum (KG), into which polyphosphate (polyP) nanoparticles have been incorporated, are described. The PVA/KG cryogel is prepared by intermolecular cross‐linking of PVA via freeze‐thawing and Ca2+‐mediated ionic gelation of KG to form stable salt bridges. The incorporation of polyP as amorphous nanoparticles with Ca2+ ions (Ca‐polyP‐NP) is achieved using an in situ approach. The polyP constituent does not significantly affect the viscoelastic properties of the PVA/KG cryogel that are comparable to natural soft tissue. The exposure of the Ca‐polyP‐NP within the cryogel to medium/serum allows the formation of a biologically active polyP coacervate/protein matrix that stimulates the growth of human mesenchymal stem cells in vitro and provides the cells a suitable matrix for infiltration superior to the polyP‐free cryogel. In vivo biocompatibility studies in rats reveal that already two to four weeks after implantation into muscle, the implant regions containing the polyP‐KG/PVA material become replaced by initial granulation tissue, whereas the controls are free of any cells. It is proposed that the polyP‐KG/PVA cryogel has the potential to become a promising implant material for soft tissue engineering/repair.
High Bipolar Conductivity and Robust In‐Plane Spontaneous Electric Polarization in Selenene
Authors: Wang Dan , Tang Li‐Ming , Jiang Xing‐Xing , Tan Jie‐Yao , He Meng‐Dong , Wang Xin‐Jun , Chen Ke‐Qiu
Published: November 2018

Selenene has been predicted as a new member of an atomically thin 2D crystalline material family as of last year. With first principle calculations, two different stable phases of selenene, one with the 1T‐MoS2‐like structure (α‐Se) and the other with alternating arrangement structure of deformed four‐membered and six‐membered rings (b‐Se) are identified. Further research indicates that monolayer α‐Se exhibits excellent bipolar conductivity, possessing rather high hole mobility close to that of graphene, and monolayer b‐Se shows a robust in‐plane spontaneous electric polarization of 13.46 mC cm−2 and a polarization reversing barrier of 422 meV per unit cell. The findings offer a promising material for high speed electronic devices and broaden the family of 2D ferroelectric materials, especially the family of elemental ferroelectric materials.
Epoxy‐Based Nanocomposites for High‐Voltage Insulation: A Review
Authors: Adnan Mohammed Mostafa , Tveten Erlend Grytli , Glaum Julia , Ese Marit‐Helen Glomm , Hvidsten Sverre , Glomm Wilhelm , Einarsrud Mari‐Ann
Published: November 2018

Epoxy nanocomposites, with inorganic oxide nanoparticles as filler, can exhibit novel property combinations, such as enhanced mechanical strength, higher thermal conductivity, increased dielectric breakdown strength, and reduced complex permittivity. Therefore, they have interesting applications in nanodielectrics, such as high‐voltage insulation materials or in microelectromechanical systems. The primary challenge in the processing of nanocomposites is achieving a homogeneous dispersion of the nanoparticles. The dispersion quality affects the interfaces between the organic and the inorganic components, which can determine the final properties of the nanocomposite. Here, the processing methods and the resulting dielectric, mechanical, and thermal properties of epoxy nanocomposites with inorganic oxide fillers are presented. Functionalization of the nanoparticle generally improves the dispersion of the particles in the polymer matrix. Different oxide fillers are observed to have similar effects on the properties of the nanocomposites. Epoxy‐based nanocomposites exhibit improved dielectric breakdown strength and lower complex permittivity with inorganic oxide nanoparticles at low filler contents, compared to conventional composites with micrometer‐sized particles. While there are some inconsistencies in the findings, which may be attributed to differences in the dispersion quality, an improved understanding of the nanoparticle–epoxy interfaces in nanocomposites will enable tailoring of the desired properties, opening new avenues for application.
ipso‐Arylative Ring‐Opening Polymerization as a Route to Electron‐Deficient Conjugated Polymers
Authors: Shih Feng‐Yang , Choi Deokkyu , Wu Qin , Nam Chang‐Yong , Grubbs Robert B.
Published: November 2018

ipso‐Arylative ring‐opening polymerization of 2‐bromo‐8‐aryl‐8H‐indeno[2,1‐b]thiophen‐8‐ol monomers proceeds to Mn up to 9 kg mol−1 with conversion of the monomer diarylcarbinol groups to pendent conjugated aroylphenyl side chains (2‐benzoylphenyl or 2‐(4‐hexylbenzoyl)phenyl), which influence the optical and electronic properties of the resulting polythiophenes. Poly(3‐(2‐(4‐hexylbenzoyl)phenyl)thiophene) was found to have lower frontier orbital energy levels (HOMO/LUMO=−5.9/−4.0 eV) than poly(3‐hexylthiophene) owing to the electron‐withdrawing ability of the aryl ketone side chains. The electron mobility (ca. 2×10−3 cm2 V−1 s−1) for poly(3‐(2‐(4‐hexylbenzoyl)phenyl)thiophene) was found to be significantly higher than the hole mobility (ca. 8×10−6 cm2 V−1 s−1), which suggests such polymers are candidates for n‐type organic semiconductors. Density functional theory calculations suggest that backbone distortion resulting from side‐chain steric interactions could be a key factor influencing charge mobilities.
Properties of mineral filled poly(lactic acid)/poly(methyl methacrylate) blend
Authors: Gonzalez‐Garzon Mauricio , Shahbikian Shant , Huneault Michel A.
Published: November 2018

This study examines the influence of three different minerals, that is, clay, calcium carbonate, and quartz on the physical, thermal, and mechanical properties of poly(lactic acid) (PLA)/poly(methyl methacrylate) blend. Rheological behavior and phase structure were initially studied by small‐amplitude oscillatory shear rheology. Clay‐ and quartz‐filled materials presented an increase in viscosity at low frequency associated with the presence of a yield stress. However, this behavior was not observed for calcium carbonate filled materials due to a matrix degradation effect. To elucidate this aspect, thermal stability and thermal properties were examined by thermogravimetric analysis and differential scanning calorimetry, showing that calcium carbonate promotes degradation of the PLA phase. No nucleating effect was observed in the presence of the minerals. Dynamical mechanical analysis and mechanical characterization revealed an increase of the overall softening temperature and, a reinforcing effect for clay‐ and quartz‐based composites. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 46927.
Comparing RNA‐Seq and microarray gene expression data in two zones of the Arabidopsis root apex relevant to spaceflight
Authors: Krishnamurthy Aparna , Ferl Robert J. , Paul Anna‐Lisa
Published: November 2018

Premise of the Study

The root apex is an important region involved in environmental sensing, but comprises a very small part of the root. Obtaining root apex transcriptomes is therefore challenging when the samples are limited. The feasibility of using tiny root sections for transcriptome analysis was examined, comparing RNA sequencing (RNA‐Seq) to microarrays in characterizing genes that are relevant to spaceflight.

Methods

Arabidopsis thaliana Columbia ecotype (Col‐0) roots were sectioned into Zone 1 (0.5 mm; root cap and meristematic zone) and Zone 2 (1.5 mm; transition, elongation, and growth‐terminating zone). Differential gene expression in each was compared.

Results

Both microarrays and RNA‐Seq proved applicable to the small samples. A total of 4180 genes were differentially expressed (with fold changes of 2 or greater) between Zone 1 and Zone 2. In addition, 771 unique genes and 19 novel transcriptionally active regions were identified by RNA‐Seq that were not detected in microarrays. However, microarrays detected spaceflight‐relevant genes that were missed in RNA‐Seq.

Discussion

Single root tip subsections can be used for transcriptome analysis using either RNA‐Seq or microarrays. Both RNA‐Seq and microarrays provided novel information. These data suggest that techniques for dealing with small, rare samples from spaceflight can be further enhanced, and that RNA‐Seq may miss some spaceflight‐relevant changes in gene expression.
Development of 17 novel microsatellite markers for Lycoris aurea and L. radiata (Amaryllidaceae) using next‐generation sequencing
Authors: Chen I‐Ju , Shii Chou‐Tou , Chang Tsu‐Liang , Hwu Kae‐Kang
Published: November 2018

Premise of the Study

Lycoris is an ornamental and medicinal plant. We developed microsatellite markers for L. aurea and L. radiata simultaneously by using a hybrid between these two species.

Methods and Results

Ion Torrent next‐generation sequencing produced 1,784,504 reads. Testing 64 primer sets allowed for the development of 17 novel microsatellite markers: 16 for L. aurea, 10 for L. radiata, and nine common markers. Lycoris aurea had one to 12 alleles per locus and observed and expected heterozygosity levels of 0–0.923 and 0.038–0.809, respectively. Lycoris radiata had three to 12 alleles per locus and observed and expected heterozygosity levels of 0–0.909 and 0.127–0.797, respectively. Ten markers were cross‐amplified for L. sprengeri.

Conclusions

Hybrid sequencing can facilitate the cost‐effective development of molecular markers for parental species. The markers developed here are useful for studying Lycoris population structure.
Evaluation of the Short‐, Mid‐, and Long‐Term Effects of Tofacitinib on Lymphocytes in Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: van Vollenhoven Ronald , Lee Eun Bong , Strengholt Sander , Mojcik Christopher , Valdez Hernan , Krishnaswami Sriram , Biswas Pinaki , Lazariciu Irina , Hazra Anasuya , Clark James D. , Hodge Jennifer , Wang Lisy , Choy Ernest
Published: November 2018

Objective

Tofacitinib is an oral JAK inhibitor for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Altered lymphocyte cell counts and a potential association with increased infection rates have been reported in RA patients treated with JAK inhibitors. This analysis was undertaken to evaluate the short‐, mid‐, and long‐term effects of tofacitinib on lymphocytes and infection rates in patients with RA.

Methods

In this post hoc analysis, absolute lymphocyte counts (ALCs) were obtained from phase III studies (12–24 months; n = 717–958) and phase I/II/III/long‐term extension studies of tofacitinib (≤117 months) (All RA population; n = 7,061); lymphocyte subset counts (LSCs) were from phase II studies (1.5–6 months’ exposure; n = 236–486), an ORAL Sequel vaccine substudy (~22 months; n = 198), and an ORAL Sequel lymphocyte substudy (~50 months; n = 55–1,035) of tofacitinib. The reversibility of ALC/LSC changes was evaluated. The relationship of ALC and LSC to infections was analyzed in the All RA population. The value of monitoring ALC alone was assessed by examining correlations between ALCs and LSCs.

Results

Tofacitinib treatment resulted in an initial increase in ALC versus pretreatment baseline, which gradually declined to steady state by ~48 months. CD4+ and CD8+ T cell counts decreased over long‐term treatment, and ALC and LSC changes were reversible upon treatment cessation. Patients with ALCs of <500 cells/mm3 had an increased risk of serious infections. There was no strong association between CD4+ T cell, CD8+ T cell, B cell, or natural killer cell counts and serious infection incidence rates. ALC and CD4+ or CD8+ T cell counts correlated well (R = 0.65–0.86).

Conclusion

Our findings indicate that monitoring of ALC alone appears to be adequate to assess infection risk in tofacitinib‐treated patients with RA.
Protein Arginine Methyltransferase 1‐Dependent Labeling and Isolation of Histone H4 through N‐Mustard Analogues of S‐Adenosyl‐l‐methionine
Authors: Hymbaugh Sarah J. , Pecor Lindsay M. , Tracy Christopher M. , Comstock Lindsay R.
Published: November 2018

Histones, the fundamental building blocks of nucleosomes, undergo post‐translational modifications and play a major role in the regulation of transcriptional processes. Although the significance of these modifications, including methylation, is widely recognized, little is known about the mechanisms connecting such events. To improve our understanding of how protein methylation is intricately linked, we have developed novel N‐mustard analogues of S‐adenosyl‐l‐methionine (SAM) functionalized with azides and alkynes to serve as probes of biological methylation. Here, we demonstrate their ability to serve as effective cofactor mimics of SAM and to be enzymatically transferred by protein arginine methyltransferase 1 (PRMT1) to histone H4 with high site selectively for its target Arg3 on the histone tail. Further incorporation of biotin through copper‐catalyzed click chemistry permitted visualization and isolation of the analogue‐modified histone H4 from a complex mixture. This work validates the future utility of N‐mustard analogues as probes of protein methylation events beyond PRMT1.