bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Retos para la producción vitivinícola en la región norte de Baja California: Una Caracterización hidrológica del valle de Guadalupe
Authors: Manzanares José Luis
Published: July 2020

Se analiza la intensidad de uso en los recursos hídricos subterráneos para el principal valle productor de vino en Baja California considerando un enfoque teórico de seguridad hídrica. La metodología empleada se basa en información oficial para estimar indicadores con la perspectiva de sustentabilidad como el índice del volumen concesionado de agua subterránea en conjunto con la representación de la densidad de concesiones para extracción por km2. Así mismo, para aportar elementos en la gestión integral de los recursos hídricos en la zona de estudio, la investigación propone el uso de herramientas de percepción remota con imágenes multiespectrales del proyecto Sentinel2 para identificar condiciones de estrés hídrico mediante el cálculo del índice diferencial normalizado de recursos hídricos (NDWI) una alternativa al convencional NDVI en la zona productiva. Los resultados sugieren que los factores antropogénicos representan la principal amenaza para el avance de la producción sustentable hacia el largo plazo de esta emblemática actividad en el norte de Baja California.
Spatio-temporal analysis of land use/land cover change through overlay technique in Kinnaur district of Himachal pradesh, Western Himalaya
Authors: Maurya Rajan , Negi V. S. , Pandey B. W.
Published: July 2020

In the modern era of globalisation demand of natural resources is very high for the well-being of human; high demand results in the degradation of natural resources, uneven pattern of development and changes in naturally available resources. Changes in land use land cover (LULC) is a dynamic process, which varies with time and space. It is the main component in the planning and management of natural resources, and analysing the changes in the environment. There are many remote sensing and GIS-based model used by the researcher in the world to identify the land use pattern. Here, Digital change detection model is used to determine the changes in Land use and Land cover with geo-referenced multi-temporal remote sensing data. This present study is an attempt to identify the spatial-temporal variation of LULC in the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh, based on the secondary data. Landsat imageries are collected from the United States Geological Survey (USGS) for a different period like Landsat TM, Landsat ETM +, and Landsat OLI. Kinnaur district has witnessed many hydro-electric power projects, dam, tunnel and road construction, which has changed the pattern of land use in a few decades. It is indispensable to have a sustainable development mechanism for the fragile ecosystem. It includes the initiative of local government and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), government agencies and global partners to improve the degraded land condition.Keywords: Natural Resources, Land Use/ Land Cover, Kinnaur, Hydro-electric Power Projects.
ENSINO DE GEOGRAFIA PARA SURDOS: REFLEXÕES MULTICULTURAIS
Authors: Oliveira Thabata Fonseca de , Kelman Celeste Azulay , Ivenicki Ana
Published: July 2020

A questão cultural apresenta-se em evidência em diversos âmbitos da sociedade. A presença dos alunos surdos nos espaços de ensino pode ser entendida como traços da diversidade cultural no cotidiano escolar, exigindo mudanças nos currículos e práticas pedagógicas. Posto isso, este ensaio objetiva articular as discussões acerca do paradigma multicultural à educação de surdos, bem como ao ensino de Geografia para esse alunado. Iniciamos com um debate que aponta as distintas concepções de multiculturalismo existentes e as implicações de tais visões no âmbito educacional. Em seguida, refletimos como a surdez pode ser compreendida por meio de um viés multicultural. Por último, discutimos as possibilidades de um ensino de Geografia multicultural para alunos surdos.
The Impact of Industrial Sector on the Application of the Six Capitals Model in Integrated Reporting: A Case Study of Zimbabwe
Authors: Muzira Dumisani Rumbidzai
Published: July 2020

The introduction of the six capitals models in integrated reporting brought about more disclosure in corporate reports for the benefit of the stakeholders. As an extension of the study done on the application of these capitals by the companies listed on the Zimbabwean stock exchange, this study is an investigation into the impact of industrial sector on the application of the six capitals model in integrated reporting. The study is a qualitative study that uses content analysis. The study is intended to benefit the preparers of financial reports, investors, and other stakeholders. The results showed that, the 13 sectors represented by the 20 companies reported on financial and manufactured capital. Financial, manufactured, and human capitals were the most reported capitals respectively while the lowly reported capitals were social and relationship, natural, and intellectual capital. Further analysis of data revealed that industrial sector did not only have an influence on the application of the six capitals, but had an influence on the kind of capital the sector reported the most. Recommendations are then made for the six capitals to be promoted across all industrial sectors through seminars.
The Impact of COVID-19 on Education in Ghana
Authors: Upoalkpajor Joshua-Luther Ndoye , Upoalkpajor Cornelius Bawa
Published: July 2020

This study was intended to examine the effect of COVID-19 on education in Ghana. This study was guided by the following objectives; to evaluate the awareness of COVID-19 virus among students in Ghana, to examine the impact of COVID-19 on education in Ghana and to evaluate the after effect of COVID-19 epidemic on education system in Ghana. The study employed the descriptive and explanatory design; questionnaires in addition to library research were applied in order to collect data. Primary and secondary data sources were used and data was analyzed using the chi square statistical tool at 5% level of significance which was presented in frequency tables and percentages. The respondents under the study were 100 teachers and students of selected Senior High Schools (SHS) in Tamale metropolitan area of northern region of Ghana. The study findings revealed that COVID-19 pandemic has significant impact on education in Ghana; based on the findings from the study, schools want resources to reconstruct the loss in education through the epidemic.
Influence of Packaging Materials on Storage Quality of Supplementary Food Mix
Authors: Arokiamary S. , Senthilkumar R. , Kanchana S.
Published: July 2020

Pearl millet based supplementary food mix was prepared with 5.0 per cent incorporation of carrot and araikeerai (Amaranthus dubius) powder. The food mix was packed in polyethylene bags (P1), Metallized Polyethylene Pouches (P2) and Polyethylene terephthalate jars (P3) and stored at room temperature. The initial free fatty acid content of supplementary food mix was 0.231 per cent of oleic acid which had changed to 0.274, 0.257 and 0.248 per cent of oleic acid in P1, P2 and P3, respectively after 180 days of storage. The freshly prepared supplementary food mix contained 1.2 mEq / kg of peroxide value. The corresponding values at the end of the storage were 3.9 (P1), 2.8 (P2) and 2.4 (P3) mEq / kg of peroxide value. Initially the supplementary food mix had 8,048 mg of b-carotene per 100 g and after 180 days of storage period, the b-carotene reduced to 6,586 in P1, 7,236 in P2 and 7,215 mg / 100 g in P3.  The freshly prepared supplementary food mix contained 2.85 mg of ascorbic acid, which had reduced to 2.17 (P1), 2.36 (P2) and 2.51 mg / 100 g (P3) at the end of storage period. The study revealed that the supplementary food mix packed in Polyethylene terephthalate jars had undergone minimum changes in physico-chemical characteristics. Hence, it is concluded that the storage of supplementary mix in Polyethylene terephthalate jars extent the shelf life of the product and reduce the nutrient losses during storage.
Assessment of Heavy Metals’ Contamination of Soils and Vegetable from Farmlands on Selected Floodplains in Akure and Environs, Nigeria
Authors: Aiyesanmi Ademola , Chukwunenye Precious , Odukoya Johnson
Published: July 2020

Aim: Among other absorption pathways, heavy metals affect human health via their introduction into the diet through the soil-food chain. This study was carried out to determine the concentration of heavy metals in soils and plant’s part of Amaranthus hybridus from five farmlands on floodplains in Akure and environs.

Study Design: Soil and A. hybridus samples were obtained from five farmlands for the assessment of their heavy metals’ content and pollution levels.

Place and Duration of Study: The study (six months’ duration) was conducted at the Department of Chemistry, The Federal University of Technology, Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria.

Methodology: The assessment involved the use of standard methods of analyses and an atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Mathematical expressions were employed for estimating the bioconcentration factor, geoaccumulation index, contamination factor and pollution load index. Statistical difference of the results was evaluated using One-Way Analysis of Variance.

Results: The experimental results revealed that the farmlands’ soils belong to four textural classes in which their heavy metals’ contents are all below the maximum allowable concentrations provided in the considered regulatory guidelines for soil. Evaluation of the geoaccumulation index showed that concentration of all heavy metals in the soils are not enriched above the baseline  concentration as most of the soils belong to Class 0 (uncontaminated category). Pollution load index estimated from the contamination factors also indicated no overall pollution of the farmlands. Uptake of the studied heavy metals by A. hybridus was at varied levels while vegetable samples from Ogbese farmland had the highest bioconcentration factor for copper, nickel and chromium.

Conclusion: Although most of the farmland soils have satisfactory physicochemical properties and present safe level of the studied heavy metals, the research revealed the need for cultivation of vegetables which are extremely poor bioaccumulators of heavy metals in these farmlands.
The Perception of the Indoor Environment Quality (IEQ) of Private Hostels in Ifite-Awka, Nigeria
Authors: Ezeokoli F. O. , Omenyi C. A. , Okonkwo C. B. N. Bert- , Iheama N. B.
Published: July 2020

This study aimed at evaluating the indoor environment conditions of the private hostels in Ifite Awka Anambra state with a view to establishing its quality and impacts on students dwelling on these hostels in the study area. Being a survey research, the study was affected by the use of questionnaire, literature searches and direct observations. Accordingly, a total of 311 questionnaires were administered while 258 questionnaires which represent 83% were returned and found useful. The study found that IEQ parameters of hostels in study area are: Indoor air quality was poor due to inadequate ventilation of rooms; thermal comfort of rooms was found to be warm; indoor light quality was found good and the acoustics comfort and noise slightly good and to some extent poor. Therefore, the study recommended that during the design and construction of buildings, IEQ parameters should be considered, so as to obtain a quality indoor environment.
Diagonais acadêmicas do intercâmbio cultural
Authors: Abreu Martha
Published: July 2020

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A FUNDAÇÃO DIREITO ANIMAL, ÉTICA E CIÊNCIAS (LFDA) E A ÉTICA EM FAVOR DO ANIMAL NA FRANÇA
Authors: Chapouthier Georges , Van Der Kemp Thierry Auffret , Nouët Jean-Claude
Published: July 2020

A Fundação Direito animal, ética e ciências (LFDA), fruto da Liga francesa dos direitos do animal, ocupou, durante quarenta anos no cenário francês da proteção dos animais, uma posição particularmente original. Criada e animada por um grupo de intelectuais e universitários, ela abordou a questão do respeito do animal sob um novo critério ético firmemente apoiado sobre as mais recentes descobertas da etologia e fundada sobre os princípios do direito.
SEXUALITY, DIVERSITY AND LAW: THE LEGAL PROTECTION OF SEXUAL EXPRESSIONS
Authors: Silva Galdino Valéria , Costa Cazelatto Caio Eduardo
Published: July 2020

The social and juridical contours attributed to the values and expressions of human sexuality are the constant target scientific discussions, especially when this attention is focused on sexual diversity. As a result of this, the present research had bibliographical and narrative reviews in order to investigate the legal protection of sexuality, above all, that related to the experience of sexual minorities. For that, the historical, conceptual and classificatory aspects about the theme were explored as well as sexuality, discussed as a fundamental right and personality, since its exercise is immanent to the human condition.
O CASO FAZENDA BRASIL VERDE E O CUMPRIMENTO DA DECISÃO DA CORTE INTERAMERICANA DE DIREITOS HUMANOS
Authors: Casali Bahia Saulo José
Published: July 2020

O artigo investiga o cumprimento pelo Estado brasileiro da decisão produzida pela Corte Interamericana de Direitos Humanos (CorteIDH) no caso da Fazenda Brasil Verde, julgado em 20 de outubro de 2016. A CorteIDH estabeleceu que o não reconhecimento, no ordenamento interno brasileiro, do trabalho escravo enquanto crime imprescritível constituía um obstáculo relevante para a garantia da proteção judicial, seguindo o seu entendimento jurisprudencial de que graves violações de direitos humanos não prescrevem na esfera internacional. No cumprimento da decisão, no ano de 2018, ocorreu impetração de Habeas Corpus junto ao TRF da 1a Região, e o artigo analisa o acórdão produzido, que afastou as alegações de incompetência da CorteIDH e de violação ao contraditório, ampla defesa e presunção de inocência, além da prescrição que se pretendia ver reconhecida. Metodologicamente, o estudo de caso, assim, é utilizado para a realização das inferências que podem ser vislumbradas sobre o problema.
O SIGILO DE DADOS BANCÁRIOS NO BRASIL, ONTEM E HOJE: ENTRE O DIREITO À INTIMIDADE E O DEVER DE COMPARTILHAMENTO
Authors: Freire de Carvalho Calabrich Bruno , Coutinho Barreto Pablo
Published: July 2020

O estudo aborda o sigilo bancário, sua conceituação, sua extensão e, especialmente, sua evolução nos planos positivo-normativo e jurisprudencial brasileiros, até o momento atual. Para tanto, ampara-se em pesquisa bibliográfica e documental, com destaque para o tratamento constitucional e legal do sigilo bancário ao longo dos anos e as principais decisões do Supremo Tribunal Federal sobre o tema. A problematização proposta tem como foco a controvérsia, ainda não superada, a respeito da prescindibilidade de prévia autorização judicial para acesso aos dados bancários por autoridades do Estado.
Use of Physical Therapy in Patients With Osteoarthritis in Germany: An Analysis of a Linkage of Claims and Survey Data
Authors: Jacobs Hannes , Callhoff Johanna , Albrecht Katinka , Postler Anne , Saam Joachim , Lange Toni , Goronzy Jens , Günther Klaus-Peter , Hoffmann Falk
Published: July 2020

Objective

To examine the utilization of physical therapy (PT) and predictors for its use in individuals with osteoarthritis (OA) while focusing on sociodemographic and disease‐related factors.

Methods

For this cross‐sectional study, 657,807 patients (age 30–79 years) diagnosed with hip, knee, or polyarticular OA were identified in claims data. In 2016, a questionnaire including information on disease status, demography, and socioeconomics was sent to a random sample of 8,995 patients stratified by sex, age, and type of diagnosis. Claims data from 2016 included the utilization and type of PT, as well as the prescribing medical specialist, and were linked to questionnaire data. Multivariable logistic regression was conducted to determine variables associated with the use of PT.

Results

In total, 3,564 (40%) patients completed the questionnaire and agreed to linking questionnaire and claims data (69% female, mean age 66.5 years). In 2016, 50% of the study population received PT at least once, and women received it more frequently than men (53% versus 43%). Most PT was prescribed by orthopedists (45%) and general practitioners (32%). Multivariable logistic regression showed that women, higher household income, having both hip and knee OA, lower functional status, higher disease activity, and individuals living in the eastern, southern, and western states of Germany were associated with an increased utilization of PT.

Conclusion

Considering current guideline recommendations and that more than one‐third of OA patients with high functional impairment and/or pain did not receive PT in the last 12 months, there is considerable potential for improvement. This is especially true for men and individuals with a low income.
Elucidating the Coordination of Diethyl Sulfide Molecules in Copper(I) Thiocyanate (CuSCN) Thin Films and Improving Hole Transport by Antisolvent Treatment
Authors: Worakajit Pimpisut , Hamada Fumiya , Sahu Debashis , Kidkhunthod Pinit , Sudyoadsuk Taweesak , Promarak Vinich , Harding David J. , Packwood Daniel M. , Saeki Akinori , Pattanasattayavong Pichaya
Published: July 2020

Copper(I) thiocyanate (CuSCN) is rising to prominence as a hole‐transporting semiconductor in various opto/electronic applications. Its unique combination of good hole mobility, high optical transparency, and solution‐processability renders it a promising hole‐transport layer for solar cells and p‐type channel in thin‐film transistors. CuSCN is typically deposited from sulfide‐based solutions with diethyl sulfide (DES) being the most widely used. However, little is known regarding the effects of DES on CuSCN films despite the fact that DES can coordinate with Cu(I) and result in a different coordination polymer having a distinct crystal structure when fully coordinated. Herein, the coordination of DES in CuSCN films is thoroughly investigated with a suite of characterization techniques as well as density functional theory. This study reveals that DES directly affects the microstructure of CuSCN by stabilizing the polar crystalline surfaces via the formation of strong coordination bonds. Furthermore, a simple antisolvent treatment is demonstrated to be effective at modifying the microstructure and morphology of CuSCN films. The treatment with tetrahydrofuran or acetone leads to uniform films consisting of CuSCN crystallites with high crystallinity and their surfaces passivated by DES molecules, resulting in an increase in the hole mobility from 0.01 to 0.05 cm2 V−1 s−1.
Multifunctional 3D‐Printed Patches for Long‐Term Drug Release Therapies after Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Ajdary Rubina , Ezazi Nazanin Zanjanizadeh , Correia Alexandra , Kemell Marianna , Huan Siqi , Ruskoaho Heikki J. , Hirvonen Jouni , Santos Hélder A. , Rojas Orlando J.
Published: July 2020

A biomaterial system incorporating nanocellulose, poly(glycerol sebacate), and polypyrrole is introduced for the treatment of myocardial infarction. Direct ink writing of the multicomponent aqueous suspensions allows multifunctional lattice structures that not only feature elasticity and electrical conductivity but enable cell growth. They are proposed as cardiac patches given their biocompatibility with H9c2 cardiomyoblasts, which attach extensively at the microstructural level, and induce their proliferation for 28 days. Two model drugs (3i‐1000 and curcumin) are investigated for their integration in the patches, either by loading in the precursor suspension used for extrusion or by direct impregnation of the as‐obtained, dry lattice. In studies of drug release conducted for five months, a slow in vitro degradation of the cardiac patches is observed, which prevents drug burst release and indicates their suitability for long‐term therapy. The combination of biocompatibility, biodegradability, mechanical strength, flexibility, and electrical conductivity fulfills the requirement of the highly dynamic and functional electroresponsive cardiac tissue. Overall, the proposed cardiac patches are viable alternatives for the regeneration of myocardium after infarction through the effective integration of cardiac cells with the biomaterial.
A Self‐Powered Angle Sensor at Nanoradian‐Resolution for Robotic Arms and Personalized Medicare
Authors: Wang Ziming , An Jie , Nie Jinhui , Luo Jianjun , Shao Jiajia , Jiang Tao , Chen Baodong , Tang Wei , Wang Zhong Lin
Published: July 2020

As the dominant component for precise motion measurement, angle sensors play a vital role in robotics, machine control, and personalized rehabilitation. Various forms of angle sensors have been developed and optimized over the past decades, but none of them would function without an electric power. Here, a highly sensitive triboelectric self‐powered angle sensor (SPAS) exhibiting the highest resolution (2.03 nano‐radian) after a comprehensive optimization is reported. In addition, the SPAS holds merits of light weight and thin thickness, which enables its extensive integrated applications with minimized energy consumption: a palletizing robotic arm equipped with the SPAS can precisely reproduce traditional Chinese calligraphy via angular data it collects. In addition, the SPAS can be assembled in a medicare brace to record the flexion/extension of joints, which may benefit personalized orthopedic recuperation. The SPAS paves a new approach for applications in the emerging fields of robotics, sensing, personalized medicare, and artificial intelligence.
Polarized Light‐Emitting Diodes Based on Anisotropic Excitons in Few‐Layer ReS2
Authors: Wang Junyong , Zhou Yong Justin , Xiang Du , Ng Shiuan Jun , Watanabe Kenji , Taniguchi Takashi , Eda Goki
Published: July 2020

An on‐chip polarized light source is desirable in signal processing, optical communication, and display applications. Layered semiconductors with reduced in‐plane symmetry have inherent anisotropic excitons that are attractive candidates as polarized dipole emitters. Herein, the demonstration of polarized light‐emitting diode based on anisotropic excitons in few‐layer ReS2, a 2D semiconductor with excitonic transition energy of 1.5–1.6 eV, is reported. The light‐emitting device is based on minority carrier (hole) injection into n‐type ReS2 through a hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) tunnel barrier in a metal–insulator–semiconductor (MIS) van der Waals heterostack. Two distinct emission peaks from excitons are observed at near‐infrared wavelength regime from few‐layer ReS2. The emissions exhibit a degree of polarization of 80% reflecting the nearly 1D nature of excitons in ReS2.
High Resolution Soft and Stretchable Circuits with PVA/Liquid‐Metal Mediated Printing
Authors: Silva André F. , Paisana Hugo , Fernandes Tânia , Góis Joana , Serra Arménio , Coelho Jorge F. J. , de Almeida Aníbal T. , Majidi Carmel , Tavakoli Mahmoud
Published: July 2020

A novel technique that permits, for the first time, fabrication of stretchable traces with linewidths as low as 20 µm and line‐spacing of 30 µm, based on simple coating and printing techniques, performed entirely at ambient condition, is demonstrated. By relying on existing inkjet printing technique, the proposed sinter‐free method is a step toward scalable fabrication of high‐resolution stretchable circuits, with application in logic gates, transparent conductors, and solar panels. This is accomplished by coating a layer of poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) over an elastic substrate, inkjet printing a circuit with silver nanoparticle (AgNP) ink, and then coating the printed circuit with a thin film of eutectic gallium‐indium‐tin (Galinstan) alloy. The Galinstan coating selectively wets to the printed AgNPs, resulting in highly conductive (6.65 × 106 S m−1) circuits that can withstand over 100% of strain with a modest gauge factor of ≈2.7. The process does not need thermal sintering, thanks to the Galinstan fusion with AgNPs, thus being compatible with heat‐sensitive substrates. The PVA coating has a critical role as a hydrophilic surface that absorbs the water‐based ink but resists wetting of the Galinstan. This method is demonstrated over a variety of substrates, including ultrasoft polyurethanes, ultra‐stretchable styrene–ethylene/butylynestyrene, and polyimide.
Leveraging Monostable and Bistable Pre‐Curved Bilayer Actuators for High‐Performance Multitask Soft Robots
Authors: Chi Yinding , Tang Yichao , Liu Haijun , Yin Jie
Published: July 2020

Soft actuators are typically designed to be inherently stress‐free and stable. Relaxing such a design constraint allows exploration of harnessing mechanical prestress and elastic instability to achieve potential high‐performance soft robots. Here, the strategy of prestrain relaxation is leveraged to design pre‐curved soft actuators in 2D and 3D with tunable monostability and bistability that can be implemented for multifunctional soft robotics. By bonding stress‐free active layer with embedded pneumatic channels to a uniaxially or biaxially pre‐stretched elastomeric strip or disk, pre‐curved 2D beam‐like bending actuators and 3D doming actuators are generated after prestrain release, respectively. Such pre‐curved soft actuators exhibit tunable monostable and bistable behavior under actuation by simply manipulating the prestrain and the biased bilayer thickness ratio. Their implications in multifunctional soft robotics are demonstrated in achieving high performance in manipulation and locomotion, including energy‐efficient soft gripper to holding objects through prestress, fast‐speed larva‐like jumping soft crawler with average locomotion speed of 0.65 body‐length s−1 (51.4 mm s−1), and fast swimming bistable jellyfish‐like soft robot with an average speed of 53.3 mm s−1.
Hydrodeoxygenation of Lignin‐Derived Monomers and Dimers over a Ru Supported Solid Super Acid Catalyst for Cycloalkane Production
Authors: Zhang Xing , Yan Hui , Zhu Lingjun , Li Tian , Wang Shurong
Published: July 2020

The monomers and dimers produced via lignin depolymerization are a promising alternative to transportation fuels after hydrodeoxygenation (HDO). However, these compounds contain numerous oxygen‐containing functional groups that are strongly bonded to aromatic rings. Therefore, the conventional HDO of lignin‐derived compounds faces serious problems of catalyst deactivation due to coke deposition and low hydrocarbon yields. A metal–solid super acid catalyst, i.e., Ru(SO42−)/ZrO2–CeO2, is synthesized, characterized, and evaluated for the HDO of various lignin‐derived monomers and dimers in a biphasic n‐dodecane/H2O system. A high cyclohexane yield of 98.5% is obtained by the HDO of phenol performed at 200 °C and 5 MPa. The “hydrated” configuration can be formed between the hydrogenation intermediates and H2O on the Ru sites. In addition, the anionic vacancies of ZrO2–CeO2 can be occupied by H− derived from the heterolytic cleavage of H2, leading to the formation of metal hydrides. The strong acidity of SO42−/ZrO2–CeO2 is beneficial for the subsequent deoxygenation of the hydrotreated products. In addition, the biphasic system can minimize the side reactions induced by the strong acidity of the catalyst. The catalytic system also exhibits a good catalytic performance for the HDO of other lignin‐derived monomers and dimers to produce cycloalkanes.
Achieving 17.4% Efficiency of Ternary Organic Photovoltaics with Two Well‐Compatible Nonfullerene Acceptors for Minimizing Energy Loss
Authors: Ma Xiaoling , Wang Jian , Gao Jinhua , Hu Zhenghao , Xu Chunyu , Zhang Xiaoli , Zhang Fujun
Published: July 2020

A power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 16.2% is achieved in PM6:BTP‐4F‐12 based organic photovoltaics (OPVs). On the basis of efficient binary OPVs, a series of ternary OPVs are constructed by incorporating MeIC as the third component. The open circuit voltages (VOCs) of ternary OPVs can be gradually increased along with the incorporation of MeIC, suggesting the formation of an alloy state between BTP‐4F‐12 and MeIC with good compatibility. The energy loss (Eloss) of ternary OPVs can be decreased compared with that of two binary OPVs, contributing to the VOC improvement of ternary OPVs. The short circuit current density (JSC) and fill factor (FF) of ternary OPVs can also be simultaneously enhanced with MeIC content up to 10 wt% in acceptors, leading to 17.4% PCE of the optimized ternary OPVs. The JSC and FF improvement of ternary OPVs is thought to result from the optimized ternary active layers with more efficient photon harvesting, exciton dissociation and charge transport. The 17.4% PCE and 79.2% FF is among the top values of ternary OPVs. This work indicates that a ternary strategy is an emerging method to simultaneously minimize Eloss and optimize photon harvesting as well as improve the morphology of active layers for realizing performance improvement for OPVs.
Dealing with Lead in Hybrid Perovskite: A Challenge to Tackle for a Bright Future of This Technology?
Authors: Dedecker Kevin , Grancini Giulia
Published: July 2020

Hybrid Perovskite (HP) semiconductors have been skyrocketing the field of new generation photovoltaics and expanding into advanced optoelectronics. Perovskite photovoltaics (PV) can give a tremendous push to the green energy transition, which calls for efficient, low cost, but also environmentally friendly solutions. Halide perovskites present a serious drawback related to the presence of toxic materials, i.e., lead, with its associated health and environment concerns. These concerns severely hamper their commercialization. So far, only a few viable alternatives to Pb have been found, which lag behind in terms of power conversion efficiency. Here, a forward‐looking perspective is developed presenting different potential strategies to overcome the environmental and health issues related to the use and release of lead for operative HP solar cells. The possible lead‐leakage paths and related “remediation” tools are reviewed, and possible strategies are collated with a view to beginning a new era of lead containing HP devices. Finally, through a comparison with existing lead‐based technology, a comparative study is presented to provide the tools that are essential for a real evaluation of the impact of lead content on HP commercialization.
Iron Catalyzed [3+2] Cycloaddition of Tetrahydroisoquinoline: Synthesis of Dihydropyrrolo[2,1‐a]isoquinolines
Authors: Liu Si‐Wei , Ma Dan‐Dan , Zhu Xin‐Xin , Luo Cheng‐Dan , Tan Hui‐Lin , Ju Xiao‐Li , Tan Xue , Tang Xiao‐Hui , Huang Jie , Wang Jia , Wang Xian‐Xun , Cui Hai‐Lei
Published: July 2020

We have developed an iron(III) chloride hexahydrate catalyzed formal [3+2] cycloaddition of tetrahydroisoquinolines with amide group‐bearing Morita‐Baylis‐Hillman (MBH) carbonates. A range of highly functionalized dihydropyrrolo[2,1‐a]isoquinolines could be prepared through SN2’/oxidation/electrocyclization/aromatization cascade (32–62% yield).
Excitonic Effects in Polymeric Photocatalysts
Authors: Wang Hui , Jin Sen , Zhang Xiaodong , Xie Yi
Published: July 2020

Owing to the intrinsically low dielectric properties, robust Coulomb interactions between photoinduced electrons and holes lead to dramatically strong exciton effects in polymeric photocatalysts. Such effects endow polymeric matrixes with nontrivial photoexcitation processes determining photocatalytic energy utilization. In this Minireview, we describe recent progress in the investigation of the excitonic effect in polymeric photocatalysts. On the basis of the understanding of excitonic effects in polymeric systems, we outline the relationships between excitonic behaviors and photocatalytic performance. Advances in optimizing the excitonic effect for gaining high‐efficiency polymer‐based photocatalysis are summarized. We also discuss the challenges in the field and forecast the directions for future research.
Fast and Long‐Lasting Iron(III) Reduction by Boron Toward Green and Accelerated Fenton Chemistry
Authors: Zhou Peng , Ren Wei , Nie Gang , Li Xiaojie , Duan Xiaoguang , Zhang Yongli , Wang Shaobin
Published: July 2020

Generation of hydroxyl radicals in the Fenton system (FeII/H2O2) is seriously limited by the sluggish kinetics of FeIII reduction and fast FeIII precipitation. Here, boron crystals (C‐Boron) remarkably accelerate the FeIII/FeII circulation in Fenton‐like systems (C‐Boron/FeIII/H2O2) to produce a myriad of hydroxyl radicals with excellent efficiencies in oxidative degradation of various pollutants. The surface B−B bonds and interfacial suboxide boron in the surface B12 icosahedra are the active sites to donate electrons to promote fast FeIII reduction to FeII and further enhance hydroxyl radical production via Fenton chemistry. The C‐Boron/FeIII/H2O2 system outperforms the benchmark Fenton (FeII/H2O2) and FeIII‐based sulfate radical systems. The reactivity and stability of crystalline boron is much higher than the popular molecular reducing agents, nanocarbons, and other metal/metal‐free nanomaterials.
A Planar, Conjugated N4‐Macrocyclic Cobalt Complex for Heterogeneous Electrocatalytic CO2 Reduction with High Activity
Authors: Sun Libo , Huang Zhenfeng , Reddu Vikas , Su Tan , Fisher Adrian C. , Wang Xin
Published: July 2020

Metal complexes have been widely investigated as promising electrocatalysts for CO2 reduction. Most of the current research efforts focus mainly on ligands based on pyrrole subunits, and the reported activities are still far from satisfactory. A novel planar and conjugated N4‐macrocyclic cobalt complex (Co(II)CPY) derived from phenanthroline subunits is prepared herein, and it delivers high activity for heterogeneous CO2 electrocatalysis to CO in aqueous media, and outperforms most of the metal complexes reported so far. At a molar loading of 5.93×10−8 mol cm−2, it exhibits a Faradaic efficiency of 96 % and a turnover frequency of 9.59 s−1 towards CO at −0.70 V vs. RHE. The unraveling of electronic structural features suggests that a synergistic effect between the ligand and cobalt in Co(II)CPY plays a critical role in boosting its activity. As a result, the free energy difference for the formation of *COOH is lower than that with cobalt porphyrin, thus leading to enhanced CO production.
Can an Elusive Platinum(III) Oxidation State be Exposed in an Isolated Complex?
Authors: Corinti Davide , Frison Gilles , Chiavarino Barbara , Gabano Elisabetta , Osella Domenico , Crestoni Maria Elisa , Fornarini Simonetta
Published: July 2020

Platinum(IV) complexes are extensively studied for their activity against cancer cells as potential substitutes for the widely used platinum(II) drugs. PtIV complexes are kinetically inert and need to be reduced to PtII species to play their pharmacological action, thus acting as prodrugs. The mechanism of the reduction step inside the cell is however still largely unknown. Gas‐phase activation of deprotonated platinum(IV) prodrugs was found to generate products in which platinum has a formal +3 oxidation state. IR multiple photon dissociation spectroscopy is thus used to obtain structural information helping to define the nature of both the platinum atom and the ligands. In particular, comparison of calculations at DFT, MP2 and CCSD levels with experimental results demonstrates that the localization of the radical is about equally shared between the dxz orbital of platinum and the pz of nitrogen on the amino group, the latter acting as a non‐innocent ligand.
PST‐24: A Zeolite with Varying Intracrystalline Channel Dimensionality
Authors: Jo Donghui , Zhao Jingjing , Cho Jung , Lee Jeong Hwan , Liu Yang , Liu Chang‐jun , Zou Xiaodong , Hong Suk Bong
Published: July 2020

Herein we report the synthesis, structure solution, and catalytic properties of PST‐24, a novel channel‐based medium‐pore zeolite. This zeolite was synthesized via the excess fluoride approach. Electron diffraction shows that its structure is built by composite cas‐zigzag (cas‐zz) building chains, which are connected by double 5‐ring (d5r) columns. While the cas‐zz building chains are ordered in the PST‐24 framework, the d5r columns adopt one of two possible arrangements; the two adjacent d5r columns are either at the same height or at different heights, denoted arrangements S and D, which can be regarded as open and closed valves that connect the channels, respectively. A framework with arrangement D only has a 2D 10‐ring channel system, whereas that with arrangement S only contains 3D channels. In actual PST‐24 crystals, the open and closed valves are almost randomly dispersed to yield a zeolite framework where the channel dimensionality varies locally from 2D to 3D.
Templated‐Assembly of CsPbBr3 Perovskite Nanocrystals into 2D Photonic Supercrystals with Amplified Spontaneous Emission
Authors: Vila‐Liarte David , Feil Maximilian W. , Manzi Aurora , Garcia‐Pomar Juan Luis , Huang He , Döblinger Markus , Liz‐Marzán Luis M , Feldmann Jochen , Polavarapu Lakshminarayana , Mihi Agustín
Published: July 2020

Perovskite nanocrystals (NCs) have revolutionized optoelectronic devices because of their versatile optical properties. However, controlling and extending these functionalities often requires a light‐management strategy involving additional processing steps. Herein, we introduce a simple approach to shape perovskite nanocrystals (NC) into photonic architectures that provide light management by directly shaping the active material. Pre‐patterned polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) templates are used for the template‐induced self‐assembly of 10 nm CsPbBr3 perovskite NC colloids into large area (1 cm2) 2D photonic crystals with tunable lattice spacing, ranging from 400 nm up to several microns. The photonic crystal arrangement facilitates efficient light coupling to the nanocrystal layer, thereby increasing the electric field intensity within the perovskite film. As a result, CsPbBr3 2D photonic crystals show amplified spontaneous emission (ASE) under lower optical excitation fluences in the near‐IR, in contrast to equivalent flat NC films prepared using the same colloidal ink. This improvement is attributed to the enhanced multi‐photon absorption caused by light trapping in the photonic crystal.
Rabies Virus‐Inspired Metal–Organic Frameworks (MOFs) for Targeted Imaging and Chemotherapy of Glioma
Authors: Qiao Chaoqiang , Zhang Ruili , Wang Yongdong , Jia Qian , Wang Xiaofei , Yang Zuo , Xue Tengfei , Ji Renchuan , Cui Xiufang , Wang Zhongliang
Published: July 2020

The blood–brain barrier (BBB) restricts access to the brain of more than 98 % of therapeutic agents and is largely responsible for treatment failure of glioblastoma multiforme (GBM). Therefore, it is of great importance to develop a safe and efficient strategy for more effective drug delivery across the BBB into the brain. Inspired by the extraordinary capability of rabies virus (RABV) to enter the central nervous system, we report the development and evaluation of the metal–organic framework‐based nanocarrier MILB@LR, which closely mimicked both the bullet‐shape structure and surface functions of natural RABV. MILB@LR benefited from a more comprehensive RABV‐mimic strategy than mimicking individual features of RABV and exhibited significantly enhanced BBB penetration and brain tumor targeting. MILB@LR also displayed superior inhibition of tumor growth when loaded with oxaliplatin. The results demonstrated that MILB@LR may be valuable for GBM targeting and treatment.
Synthesis of new nanocomposite based on nanoceramic and mono substituted polyoxometalate, PMo11Cd@MnFe2O4, with superior catalytic activity for oxidative desulfurization of real fuel
Authors: Rezvani Mohammad Ali , Hadi Majid , Mirsadri Seyed Amirhosein
Published: July 2020

In this manuscript, a novel nanocomposite PMo11CdO39@MnFe2O4 (PMo11Cd@MnFe2O4) based on ceramic (MnFe2O4) and mono substitute polyoxometalate (PMo11Cd) was synthesized successfully via sol–gel method in extremely mild conditions. PMo11Cd@MnFe2O4 has been proposed as a new heterogeneous inorganic nanocatalyst for highly efficient deep desulfurization of model fuel/real gasoline. The successful synthesis of as‐prepared compounds was proved by FT‐IR, XRD, SEM, and EDX techniques. The catalytic oxidative desulfurization (CODS) was performed under mild conditions in the presence of 50 ml of model fuel/real gasoline, 3 ml of oxidant with 2:1 H2O2/CH3COOH volume ratio. The efficiency was further detailed by pursuing different effective properties on the CODS process like dosage effects, different oxidation system and different catalyst effects. The best results of PMo11Cd@MnFe2O4 nanocatalyst attained via 0.1 g of dosage and H2O2/CH3COOH as oxidation system. The process obeyed the pseudo‐first‐order kinetics as the correlation factor was close to unity. In the end, the PMo11Cd@MnFe2O4 demonstrated good reusability after 5 runs.
Robust decentralized proportional–integral controller design for an activated sludge process
Authors: Anchan Sanjith S. , Rao Chinta Sankar
Published: July 2020

This paper presents the design of a decentralized proportional–integral (PI) controller for a wastewater treatment plant (WWTP). The aeration rate and the return recycle sludge rate are manipulated inputs to the WWTP process, while substrate and biomass concentration are considered as the output variables. The study is divided into two segments: A decentralized controller is designed based on the best pairing in the first segment, and in the second segment, a decoupler is developed to reduce the interactions. Decouplers are generally used to create independent loops in the multivariable control loops. Each decoupled subsystem is converted to first order plus time delay (FOPTD) model using a system identification toolbox to design independent diagonal controllers. The numerical simulations have been performed to evaluate the effectiveness of the presented methods. Furthermore, a robustness study has also been carried out by taking into account multiplicative input and output uncertainties, and it is found that the controller designed based on minimizing the integral of absolute error (IAE) criteria shows more robust.
Preparation of graded microporous layers for enhanced water management in fuel cells
Authors: Lin Guangyi , Liu Shouyi , Yu Boquan , Wang Hong , Yu Kaiben , Hu Yafei
Published: July 2020

The newly prepared gas diffusion layer (GDL) was studied in this article. The new GDL mainly includes a carbon paper layer and two microporous layers (MPLs) on the same side of carbon paper. The two MPLs were fabricated by using conductive carbon blacks of two different carbon morphology, Vulcan XC‐72, and acetylene black carbon, respectively. From the results of the water contact angle and conductivity, it was found that the GDL prepared by spraying has not only good hydrophobicity but also low resistivity. Polarization curve and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy indicated that the spraying sequence of two different carbon black pastes seriously affects the fuel cell performance, and the mercury intrusion test proved that the change in the fuel cell performance is due to the change in the pore‐size distribution of the newly prepared GDL. By comparing with commercial GDL29BC, the GDL first sprayed with a layer of acetylene black carbon and then a layer of Vulcan XC‐72 has more pore size of 7–20 μm and 20–100 μm to improve the water and gas management capability of proton exchange membrane fuel cells. When the humidity is 60%, the maximum power density is increased by 25%, and when the humidity is 100%, it is increased by 12%.
Applying machine learning to investigate long‐term insect–plant interactions preserved on digitized herbarium specimens
Authors: Meineke Emily K. , Tomasi Carlo , Yuan Song , Pryer Kathleen M.
Published: July 2020

Premise

Despite the economic significance of insect damage to plants (i.e., herbivory), long‐term data documenting changes in herbivory are limited. Millions of pressed plant specimens are now available online and can be used to collect big data on plant–insect interactions during the Anthropocene.

Methods

We initiated development of machine learning methods to automate extraction of herbivory data from herbarium specimens by training an insect damage detector and a damage type classifier on two distantly related plant species (Quercus bicolor and Onoclea sensibilis). We experimented with (1) classifying six types of herbivory and two control categories of undamaged leaf, and (2) detecting two of the damage categories for which several hundred annotations were available.

Results

Damage detection results were mixed, with a mean average precision of 45% in the simultaneous detection and classification of two types of damage. However, damage classification on hand‐drawn boxes identified the correct type of herbivory 81.5% of the time in eight categories. The damage classifier was accurate for categories with 100 or more test samples.

Discussion

These tools are a promising first step for the automation of herbivory data collection. We describe ongoing efforts to increase the accuracy of these models, allowing researchers to extract similar data and apply them to biological hypotheses.
Effects of freshwater limitation on distribution patterns and habitat use of the West Indian manatee, Trichechus manatus, in the northern Brazilian coast
Authors: Favero Iana Tavares , Favero Gabriel Eduardo , Choi‐Lima Katherine Fiedler , dos Santos Heleno Francisco , Souza‐Alves João Pedro , de Souza e Silva Josenildo , Feitosa João Lucas Leão
Published: July 2020

The West Indian manatee (Trichechus manatus) is a Vulnerable species threatened by habitat loss in the coast of north‐eastern Brazil. This study investigates how the distribution and habitat use of the West Indian manatee is influenced by resource availability in a scenario of freshwater limitation.

Land‐based and boat surveys were conducted to record manatee sightings and habitat use, in a total of 206 hours of observation.

Manatee abundance was significantly influenced by freshwater availability, with greater abundances occurring close to freshwater sources. Food availability and the variation in freshwater availability between seasons were also important to determine their distribution. For the 47 manatees sighted, 39 were recorded during the rainy season and eight during the dry season.

Habitat use was influenced by freshwater sources and manatees spent more time (average coefficient of area use = 24.96%) in areas with greater availability of fresh water. Under conditions of freshwater limitation, manatees were more abundant and spent more time closer to fresh water than to food sources; as a result, animals' distribution varied between seasons.

The results found here can help to determine conservation strategies for the region with the highest population density and genetic variability of West Indian manatees in Brazil.
Poly(siloxane imide) Binder for Silicon‐Based Lithium‐Ion Battery Anodes via Rigidness/Softness Coupling
Authors: Ma Liujia , Meng Jian‐Qiang , Cheng Ya‐Jun , Ji Qing , Zuo Xiuxia , Wang Xiaoyan , Zhu Jin , Xia Yonggao
Published: July 2020

Binders play a crucial role in maintaining mechanical integrity of electrodes in lithium‐ion batteries. However, the conventional binders lack proper elasticity, and they are not suitable for high‐performance silicon anodes featuring huge volume change during cycling. Herein, a poly(siloxane imide) copolymer (PSI) has been designed, synthesized, and utilized as a binder for silicon‐based anodes. A rigidness/softness coupling mechanism is demonstrated by the PSI binder, which can accommodate volume expansion of the silicon anode upon lithiation. The electrochemical performance in terms of cyclic stability and rate capability can be effectively improved with the PSI binder as demonstrated by a silicon nanoparticle anode.