bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of Dental Care Seeking Behaviour and Attitude among Adults in a Metropolitan City in Southern India- An Observational Study
Authors: Appukuttan Devapriya , Tadepalli Anupama , Subramanian Sangeetha
Published: February 2022

Introduction: Understanding the factors that promote or impede dental visits is a prerequisite for devising healthcare changes because underuse of dental services is linked to an increased burden of oral disorders. Aim: The study aimed to comprehensively explore the factors that could have a positive or negative influence on oral health care seeking behaviour among adults in Chennai. Materials and Methods: The present descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted among patients visiting the outpatient Department, SRM Dental College, Ramapuram, Chennai, India from April 2019 to January 2020. A structured questionnaire was admistered via both printed and online Google forms to adult patients aged above 18 years. Google forms were shared via WhatsApp social media platform. A total of 503 completed responses were statistically analysed. The Chi-square test and logistic regression analysis was applied to assess the association and the strength of association between the various factors and dental visits. Results: A total of 503 subjects were surveyed of which 75.94% had visited a dentist previously, of which males were 216 and females were 287. The most frequently cited reasons for not visiting a dentist were lack of time (60.23%), high cost (56.06%) and not having dental problems (52.88%). Respondents who thought that dental problems were serious or life threatening (65.80%), thought they had poor oral health (2.18%), felt they needed dental treatment (53.87%) and had better awareness on the benefits of regular dental consultations (62.02%) visited the dentist more frequently in the past. A significant association was observed between dental visits and educational qualification, family structure, time constraints, absence of dental problems, religious beliefs and perceived need for treatment (p-value <0.05). Conclusion: Among Indian studies, the current study found the highest frequency of dental visits. Dental visits were hampered by the time constraints, high cost of dental treatment and a lack of dental problems. Awareness that regular dental visits enhance good oral health was comprehended and linked to a higher frequency of dental visits. The study highlights the importance of providing affordable, high quality dental care as well as promoting public awareness in order to overcome barriers to dental service utilisation.
Physicochemical Composition of Processed Velvet bean Mucuna pruriens Var Utilis Seed Flour and Consumer Acceptability of Bitter Leaf Soup Thickened using these Flours
Authors: Attaugwu R. N. , Anyadioha J. I. , Ogbuokiri C. R.
Published: February 2022

The study investigated the effect various processing treatments on the physicochemical composition of mucuna seed flour and consumer acceptability of bitter leaf soups thickened using these flours. Mucuna pruriens vas utilis seeds were processed by roasting, microwave toasting, steeping and boiling and/or a combination of these treatments followed by drying for 48 hours and milling into flour. The processed flours were used to thicken bitter leaf soup and consumer acceptability of the soups were evaluated by sensory evaluation and data generated were statistically analyzed. The results showed that the proximate composition of samples ranged from 10.71- 22.94 %; 14.25 to 17.95 %; 2.43 - 9 4.93%. 0.59-3.27%, 2.62-5.68%, 48.43% - 57.40% of crude protein, moisture; ash, fiber, fat and carbohydrate respectively, with the sample MB (boiled mucuna seed) having the highest protein content. The Overall acceptability score ranged from 6.00 to 8.06 with the sample MSB (steeped and boiled mucuna seed flours) having the highest score while the mean scores for taste, aroma and mouth feel ranges from 7.67– 8.00; 6.53 – 7.67; 6.13 – 7.93 respectively. Therefore, with an overall acceptability rating of 6-8 for all the soups, processed Mucuna seed could favorably compare with other soup thickeners especially the soaked and boiled Mucuna seed flour.
AVALIAÇÃO DAS PERDAS DE ÁGUA EM SISTEMA DE ABASTECIMENTO DE ÁGUA: ESTUDO NO SETOR PARQUE DAS NAÇÕES, PARNAMIRIM/RN
Authors: Pereira Sansara Félix , Tinôco Juliana Delgado
Published: February 2022

As perdas de água são refletidas em impactos negativos, seja à população, à companhia de abastecimento de água e mesmo ao meio ambiente. Em relação às perdas reais, o volume perdido ocorre nas etapas de produção e distribuição da água, enquanto que as perdas aparentes correspondem ao volume de água consumido que não gera faturamento à companhia, seja por ligações clandestinas, fraudes e, principalmente, por submedição nos hidrômetros. O presente artigo apresenta o estudo desenvolvido no setor Parque das Nações do sistema de abastecimento de água do município de  Parnamirim/RN, com o objetivo de diagnosticar as perdas de água existentes. Para tanto, dividiu-se a área de interesse  em quatro subsetores e, com base em banco de dados e estimativas, foi elaborada a matriz de balanço hídrico proposta pela International Water Association (IWA), ferramenta que permite a estratificação dos componentes de consumo e perdas de água ao longo de um sistema. De posse dos balanços hídricos finalizados para o setor Parque das Nações e respectivos subsetores, verificou-se que essas regiões exibiram cenário semelhante, no qual as perdas totalizaram mais da metade do volume de água fornecido ao sistema de abastecimento, como também as perdas reais foram maiores que as perdas aparentes.
DIAGNÓSTICO DA GESTÃO DE POLÍTICA PÚBLICA AMBIENTAL DO MUNICÍPIO DE CUBATÃO/SP ACERCA DOS RESÍDUOS ELETROELETRÔNICOS.
Authors: Moraes Maria de Lourdes Leite , Santos Paulo Roberto Pereira
Published: February 2022

Os Resíduos de Equipamentos Eletroeletrônicos (REEE) têm se apresentado como uma problemática contemporânea que exige distinta atenção dos setores públicos e privados. Apesar da Política Nacional de Resíduos Sólidos (PNRS) instituir a responsabilidade compartilhada sobre os REEE, os municípios brasileiros ainda não dispõem de políticas municipais e/ou ações para realizar o descarte e a logística reversa de maneira correta.  Considerando esta premissa, o objetivo deste trabalho foi diagnosticar a situação da gestão pública ambiental de REEE no município de Cubatão/SP. A metodologia consistiu no levantamento bibliográfico e análise documental da legislação nacional e municipal, de entrevista semiestruturada com o gestor da secretaria de Meio Ambiente da prefeitura local e da análise de conteúdo de informações obtidas junto ao Grupo de Atuação Especial de Defesa do Meio Ambiente (GAEMA/MPSP) e junto à Agência Metropolitana da Baixada Santista (AGEM). Foi feita também uma coleta de dados quantitativos junto às lojas varejistas do município. Estas informações permitiram avaliar a existência de diretrizes e inquéritos civis do município quanto aos REEEs, dos indicadores locais de coleta, tratamento e destinação dos materiais triados nas cooperativas e da comercialização de EEE num determinado período, a fim de projetar a geração de REEE. Os resultados evidenciaram a ausência de ações, projetos, campanhas, educação ambiental e leis, que em suma compreendem a seara das políticas públicas dos REEE no município, assim como a falta de ações junto ao comércio a fim de fomentar e instruir uma política reversa. Somado a isso, os REEE não são recebidos e/ou tratados pelas cooperativas municipais. Evidenciadas as vulnerabilidades, foi redigido e aprovado um projeto de lei junto à Câmara Municipal para que, utilizando do recurso disposto nas políticas públicas de comando e controle, o município pudesse legislar diretamente sobre o REEE e nortear o planejamento de novas ações.
Marx e o pensamento invertido: sobre a questão da contingência política
Authors: Coelho Henrique
Published: February 2022

O texto avança no alcance da tese da ontonegatividade da política, querendo enfatizar sua contigência histórica, isto é, práxis social assentada sobre classes e esfera irresolutiva para a emancipação humana, segundo Marx. Avança, sobretudo, em textos pouco tematizados nesse sentido, as obras de 1845-46: A Sagrada Família e A Ideologia Alemã. Embora, não se trate de um terreno a ser desprezado, dado que de sua disputa pode surgir o progresso social, o direito social, a conquista tático-defensiva, trata-se de repor a assertiva marxiana incisiva e refulgente de sua irresolubilidade e exigência inexorável da metapolítica.
A reprodução das relações de produção e a educação escolar capitalista
Authors: De Vasconcelos Paulo Henrique , Dos Santos Maria Cristina
Published: February 2022

As discussões sobre o papel da escola como instrumento de reprodução da sociedade capitalista emergem com vigor na década de 1960, são alastradas pela área da educação ao longo dos anos e, então, retomadas pela chamada nova sociologia da educação e impregnadas pelo pós-estruturalismo e posteriormente pelo pós-modernismo. O objetivo deste texto é dar vida nova à categoria da reprodução e sua relação com a educação escolar, situando-a (novamente) no âmbito do materialismo dialético. Foi realizada uma análise conceitual ancorada principalmente nos pressupostos legados por Henri Lefebvre e pela pedagogia histórico-crítica. No momento histórico atual a reprodução toma à frente e culmina em um processo de desumanização programada no interior da escola, marcada pela promoção de um desenvolvimento psicológico intencionalmente deficiente.
Os métodos de investigação e exposição em Marx e a pesquisa no campo educacional
Authors: Silva Hedgard Rodrigues , Hermida Jorge Fernando
Published: February 2022

Baseado no método de pesquisa marxista, o artigo aborda especificamente os métodos de investigação e exposição presentes na proposição do materialismo histórico-dialético, com o objetivo de apresentar suas contribuições para a pesquisa no campo educacional. Os esforços de reflexão e síntese teórica são resultado de pesquisa bibliográfica fundamentada na perspectiva dialética, no sentido de expor elementos centrais dos processos dos métodos de investigação e de exposição. Infere que, diante dos métodos de investigação e exposição de fundamentação marxista, as pesquisas no campo educacional podem contribuir para elucidar fenômenos educacionais que visem compreender e transformar as determinações políticas, ideológicas, históricas e sociais.
A luta em defesa da educação pública no Brasil (1980-1996): obstáculos, dilemas e lições à luz da História [Lucelma Braga]
Authors: Wisniewski Schaly Marcia Salete , Schlesener Anita Helena
Published: February 2022

A presente resenha busca elucidar os principais pontos do percurso traçado nessa obra sobre a história da educação pública no Brasil no período de 1980-1996, em seus entraves e luta pela redemocratização da educação. Essa investigação se referenciou nas principais contribuições de Florestan Fernandes à luz do materialismo histórico dialético. A autora também traz reflexões importantes para a educação pública brasileina nos dias atuais.
O intelectual e o trabalhador
Authors: González Prada Manuel , Nascimento Adriano
Published: February 2022

O texto é uma transcrição de discurso de Manuel González Prada em 1º de maio de 1905 na Federação dos Sindicatos dos Padeiros
Interfaces entre o PNAE, capital social e o fortalecimento da agricultura familiar no quilombo do Pacoval/Alenquer-Pará
Authors: Barbosa de Sousa Vander Luiz , Ribeiro Efrain da Silva , Souza Edilene da Silva , Azerêdo Raoni Fernandes
Published: February 2022

A aludida pesquisa teve como base a operacionalização do Programa Nacional de Alimentação Escolar (PNAE) na comunidade remanescente de quilombo do Pacoval em Alenquer/Pará. Analisou-se as interfaces do capital social, a agricultura familiar e a política pública, utilizando a metodologia qualitativa e quantitativa, com procedimentos de entrevistas semiestruturada com diversos atores. Concluímos que existe pouca eficiência na execução do programa, que perpassa pelo a) despreparo dos gestores públicos responsáveis; b) ausência de informações dos agricultores no tocante as exigências burocráticas e ausência de assistência técnica agronômica/gestão para os agricultores; e c) inadequação de um cardápio alimentar quilombola, associada a baixa participação dos agricultores familiares no programa. Em contraponto e buscando soluções, a estratégia interorganizacional puxada pela dianteira do capital social quilombola, vem possibilitando um curso de mudanças com a inserção dos agricultores familiares no PNAE de 2019, incrementando renda na economia local e garantindo alimentos de qualidade aos alunos das escolas do quilombo.
Crystal‐Field Engineering Control of an Ultraviolet–Visible‐Responsive Near‐Infrared‐Emitting Phosphor and Its Applications in Plant Growth, Night Vision, and NIR Spectroscopy Detection
Authors: Zhou Yunpeng , Li Cancan , Wang Yuhua
Published: February 2022

Broadband near‐infrared (NIR) phosphor‐converted light‐emitting diodes (pc‐LEDs) have many prospective applications in areas related to food inspection, health management, plant growth, and night vision, because NIR phosphors are critical components of the corresponding devices. Given the wide‐ranging applicability of the material, this study is designed to comprehensively evaluate a series of novel NIR phosphors: BaMgGaxAl10–xO17:Cr3+ (x = 0, 1, 2, 3). The ultra‐low‐temperature (4 K) fluorescence spectroscopy and decay curve results confirm that Cr3+ occupies the four lattice sites of Al3+ in the matrix. Additionally, the introduction of Ga3+ increases the full‐width at half‐maximum (FWHM) of the NIR spectrum from 100 to 300 nm without affecting the fluorescence efficiency; it also considerably increases spectral coverage. An experiment to evaluate the applicability of the novel NIR phosphors reveals that the sunlight‐converting film prepared by applying the material combination of BaMgGa3Al7O17:0.02Cr3+ is able to effectively promote the growth of Chlorella. In addition, the NIR pc‐LED with a BaMgGa3Al7O17:0.2Cr3+ basis and 395‐nm LED chip has been proven to be an excellent candidate for applications in NIR spectral detection and night‐vision technology.
Subsystem decomposition and distributed state estimation of nonlinear processes with implicit time‐scale multiplicity
Authors: Debnath Sarupa , Sahoo Soumya Ranjan , Decardi‐Nelson Benjamin , Liu Jinfeng
Published: February 2022

In this work, we propose a subsystem decomposition approach and a distributed estimation scheme for a class of implicit two‐time‐scale nonlinear systems. Taking the advantage of the time scale separation, these processes are decomposed into fast subsystem and slow subsystem according to the dynamics. In the proposed method, an approach that combines the approximate solutions obtained from both the fast and slow subsystems to form a composite solution of the original system is proposed. Also, based on the fast and slow subsystems, a distributed state estimation scheme is proposed to handle the implicit time‐scale multiplicity. In the proposed design, an extended Kalman filter (EKF) is designed for the fast subsystem and a moving horizon estimator (MHE) is designed for the slow subsystem. In the design, the slow subsystem is only required to send information to the fast subsystem one‐directionally. The fast subsystem estimator does not send out any information. The estimators use different sampling times, that is, fast sampling of the fast state variables is considered in the fast EKF and slow sampling of the slow state variables is considered in the slow MHE. Extensive simulations based on a chemical process are performed to illustrate the effectiveness and applicability of the proposed subsystem decomposition and composite estimation architecture.
Prenatal phenotypic spectrum of full trisomy 18 in an Indian cohort
Authors: Sandal Sapna , Mahay Sunita Bijarnia , Dimri Gupta Nandita , Saxena Renu , Lall Meena , Dua Puri Ratna
Published: February 2022

Trisomy 18 or Edward syndrome is a chromosomal disorder due to the presence of an extra chromosome 18. We describe the phenotype of five fetuses at different gestational ages, each highlighting a different aspect of trisomy 18. The clinical spectrum included increased nuchal translucency, fetal hydrops, congenital malformations of the central nervous system, congenital heart disease, radial ray defects, and characteristic facial gestalt. We made a comparison of prenatal ultrasonography and the autopsy findings. The fetal autopsy defined the craniofacial and digit anomalies better compared with sonography. The facial features of tall forehead, hypoplastic nares, microstomia, micrognathia, low set abnormal ears along with clenched hands, and short hallux are typical for trisomy 18 and help in planning the targeted cytogenetic or molecular tests. The diagnosis was established by either fluorescence in situ hybridization or quantitative fluorescent polymerase chain reaction or chromosomal microarray in the patients. This communication emphasizes the importance of detailed assessment for craniofacial and limb anomalies on prenatal ultrasonography which can prompt an early evaluation for trisomy 18.
Polygenic risk scores for neuropsychiatric, inflammatory, and cardio‐metabolic traits highlight possible genetic overlap with suicide attempt and treatment‐emergent suicidal ideation
Authors: Fanelli Giuseppe , Sokolowski Marcus , Wasserman Danuta ,   European College of Neuropsychopharmacology (ECNP) Network on Suicide Research and Prevention, Kasper Siegfried , Zohar Joseph , Souery Daniel , Montgomery Stuart , Albani Diego , Forloni Gianluigi , Ferentinos Panagiotis , Rujescu Dan , Mendlewicz Julien , De Ronchi Diana , Serretti Alessandro , Fabbri Chiara
Published: February 2022

Suicide is the second cause of death among youths. Genetics may contribute to suicidal phenotypes and their co‐occurrence in other neuropsychiatric and medical conditions. Our study aimed to investigate the association of polygenic risk scores (PRSs) for 24 neuropsychiatric, inflammatory, and cardio‐metabolic traits/diseases with suicide attempt (SA) or treatment‐worsening/emergent suicidal ideation (TWESI). PRSs were computed based on summary statistics of genome‐wide association studies. Regression analyses were performed between PRSs and SA or TWESI in four clinical cohorts. Results were then meta‐analyzed across samples, including a total of 688 patients with SA (Neff = 2,258) and 214 with TWESI (Neff = 785). Stratified genetic covariance analyses were performed to investigate functionally cross‐phenotype PRS associations. After Bonferroni correction, PRS for major depressive disorder (MDD) was associated with SA (OR = 1.24; 95% CI = 1.11–1.38; p = 1.73 × 10−4). Nominal associations were shown between PRSs for coronary artery disease (CAD) (p = 4.6 × 10−3), loneliness (p = .009), or chronic pain (p = .016) and SA, PRSs for MDD or CAD and TWESI (p = .043 and p = .032, respectively). Genetic covariance between MDD and SA was shown in 86 gene sets related to drugs having antisuicidal effects. A higher genetic liability for MDD may underlie a higher SA risk. Further, but milder, possible modulatory factors are genetic risk for loneliness and CAD.
Organoplatinum Compounds as Anion‐Tuneable Uphill Hydroxide Transporters
Authors: Chen Li‐Jun , Wu Xin , Gilchrist Alexander M. , Gale Philip A.
Published: February 2022

Active transport of ions uphill, creating a concentration gradient across a cell membrane, is essential for life. It remains a significant challenge to develop synthetic systems that allow active uphill transport. Here, a transport process fuelled by organometallic compounds is reported that creates a pH gradient. The hydrolysis reaction of PtII complexes results in the formation of aqua complexes that established rapid transmembrane movement (“flip‐flop”) of neutral Pt−OH species, leading to protonation of the OH group in the inner leaflet, generating OH− ions, and so increasing the pH in the intravesicular solution. The organoplatinum complex effectively transports bound hydroxide ions across the membrane in a neutral complex. The initial net flow of the PtII complex into the vesicles generates a positive electric potential that can further drive uphill transport because the electric potential is opposed to the chemical potential of OH−. The OH− ions equilibrate with this transmembrane electric potential but cannot remove it due to the relatively low permeability of the charged species. As a result, effective hydroxide transport against its concentration gradient can be achieved, and multiple additions can continuously drive the generation of OH− against its concentration gradient up to ΔpH>2. Moreover, the external addition of different anions can control the generation of OH− depending on their anion binding affinity. When anions displayed very high binding affinities towards PtII compounds, such as halides, the external anions could dissipate the pH gradient. In contrast, a further pH increase was observed for weak binding anions, such as sulfate, due to the increase of positive electric potential.
Synthesis and Screening of a DNA‐Encoded Library of Non‐Peptidic Macrocycles**
Authors: Koesema Eric , Roy Animesh , Paciaroni Nicholas G. , Coito Carlos , Tokmina‐Roszyk Michal , Kodadek Thomas
Published: February 2022

There is considerable interest in the development of libraries of non‐peptidic macrocycles as a source of ligands for difficult targets. We report here the solid‐phase synthesis of a DNA‐encoded library of several hundred thousand thioether‐linked macrocycles. The library was designed to be highly diverse with respect to backbone scaffold diversity and to minimize the number of amide N−H bonds, which compromise cell permeability. The utility of the library as a source of protein ligands is demonstrated through the isolation of compounds that bind Streptavidin, a model target, with high affinity.
Atom Swapping on Aromatic Rings: Conversion from Phosphinine Pincer Metal Complexes to Metallabenzenes Triggered by O2 Oxidation
Authors: Masada Koichiro , Kusumoto Shuhei , Nozaki Kyoko
Published: February 2022

Herein, we report a novel method for the synthesis of metallabenzenes by swapping the phosphorus atom in an aromatic phosphinine ring with transition metal fragments. The oxidation of a phosphine‐phosphinine‐phosphine pincer iridium complex by O2 triggered the replacement of the phosphorus atom of the phosphinine ring by an iridium fragment to afford iridabenzene. Dianionic rhodabenzene was also synthesized from a phosphinine rhodium complex by oxidation of the phosphorus atom, followed by subsequent reduction using metallic potassium. The aromaticity of the newly synthesized irida‐ and rhoda‐benzenes was evaluated both experimentally and theoretically.
Characterization of Multifunctional and Non‐stereoselective Oxidoreductase RubE7/IstO, Expanding the Functional Diversity of the Flavoenzyme Superfamily
Authors: Yan Yijun , Yu Zhiyin , Zhong Wei , Hou Xiaodong , Tao Qiaoqiao , Cao Minhang , Wang Li , Cai Xiaofeng , Rao Yijian , Huang Sheng‐Xiong
Published: February 2022

Flavin‐dependent enzymes enable a broad range of redox transformations and generally act as monofunctional and stereoselective catalysts. Herein, we report the investigation of a multifunctional and non‐stereoselective FMN‐dependent oxidoreductase RubE7 from the rubrolone biosynthetic pathway. Our study outlines a single RubE7‐catalysed sequential reduction of three spatially distinct bonds in a tropolone ring and a reversible double‐bond reduction and dehydrogenation. The crystal structure of IstO (a RubE7 homologue) with 2.0 Å resolution reveals the location of the active site at the interface of two monomers, and the size of active site is large enough to permit both flipping and free rotation of the substrate, resulting in multiple nonselective reduction reactions. Molecular docking and site mutation studies demonstrate that His106 is oriented towards the substrate and is important for the reverse dehydrogenation reaction.
Boosted Inner Surface Charge Transfer in Perovskite Nanodots@Mesoporous Titania Frameworks for Efficient and Selective Photocatalytic CO2 Reduction to Methane
Authors: Sun Qi‐Meng , Xu Jing‐Jing , Tao Fei‐Fei , Ye Wen , Zhou Chang , He Jing‐Hui , Lu Jian‐Mei
Published: February 2022

Exploring high‐efficiency and stable halide perovskite‐based photocatalysts for the selective reduction of CO2 to methane is a challenge because of the intrinsic photo‐ and chemical instability of halide perovskites. In this study, halide perovskites (Cs3Bi2Br9 and Cs2AgBiBr6) were grown in situ in mesoporous TiO2 frameworks for an efficient CO2 reduction. Benchmarked CH4 production rates of 32.9 and 24.2 μmol g−1 h−1 with selectivities of 88.7 % and 84.2 %, were achieved, respectively, which are better than most reported halide perovskite photocatalysts. Focused ion‐beam sliced‐imaging techniques were used to directly image the hyperdispersed perovskite nanodots confined in mesopores with tunable sizes ranging from 3.8 to 9.9 nm. In situ X‐ray photoelectronic spectroscopy and Kelvin probe force microscopy showed that the built‐in electric field between the perovskite nanodots and mesoporous titania channels efficiently promoted photo‐induced charge transfer. Density functional theory calculations indicate that the high methane selectivity was attributed to the Bi‐adsorption‐mediated hydrogenation of *CO to *HCO that dominates CO desorption.
Azulene‐Embedded [n]Helicenes (n=5, 6 and 7)
Authors: Duan Chao , Zhang Jianwei , Xiang Junjun , Yang Xiaodi , Gao Xike
Published: February 2022

Azulene is a non‐benzenoid aromatic building block with unique chemical structure and physicochemical properties. By using the “bottom‐up” synthetic strategy, we synthesized three azulene‐embedded [n]helicenes ([n]AzHs, n=5, 6 and 7), in which one terminal azulene subunit was fused with n‐2 benzene rings. P‐ and M‐enantiomers were observed in the packing diagrams of [5]‐, and [6]AzHs. However, P‐ and M‐[7]AzHs could be isolated by recrystallization of the racemic mixture. These [n]AzHs were endowed with new properties through the azulene moiety such as low‐lying first electric state (S1), small optical energy gap and anti‐Kasha emission. [6]‐, and [7]AzHs exhibit strong chiroptical responses with high absorption dissymmetry factor (gabs) maxima of about 0.02, which is among the highest |gabs| values of helicenes in the visible range. These azulene‐embedded [n]helicenes contribute to the non‐benzenoid helicene library and allow the structure–property relationships to be better understood.
Improved performance of poly(styrene‐co‐butadiene) using butadiene graphitic nanoplatelets
Authors: Lee Se Jung , Jeon In‐Yup
Published: February 2022

Graphene manufactured by the existing method (e.g., chemical oxidation) has limitations in application due to various disadvantages. Functionalized graphic nanoplates manufactured by mechanochemical reactions can solve physical and chemical defects. So, butadiene graphitic nanoplatelets (BDGNs) are first synthesized with solid graphite and butadiene gas by using a mechanochemical reaction. The product BDGNs have outstanding properties, including very good dispersion in common organic solvents (i.e., toluene), and can be used as a reinforcing filler for poly(styrene‐co‐butadiene) (PSB) because of their chemical affinity to butadiene units. BDGN/PSB_X (BDGN loading [X] = 0.2, 0.5, 1, or 2 wt.%) nanocomposites are readily prepared using a solution process. In result, the tensile strength and Young's modulus of the BDGN/PSB_0.5 nanocomposites increased by approximately 27.9% and 81.4%, respectively, compared with those of pure PSB. Because of the efficient load transfer from the PSB to the BDGNs through the good distribution and affinity of the BDGNs in the PSB, as well as the physical cross‐linking points of the BDGNs. Therefore, a mechanochemical reaction can form in situ a variety of graphitic nanoplatelets (GnPs) without additional reaction as a filler that has remarkable affinity with various polymers, including copolymers.
Chatbots in retail: How do they affect the continued use and purchase intentions of Chinese consumers?
Authors: Jiang Kan , Qin Meilian , Li Shurong
Published: February 2022

The application of artificial intelligence in the retail industry has exposed many innovation opportunities and significantly impacts consumer behavior. Based on the social presence, retailer innovativeness, and self‐determination theories, this study constructs an integrated and original framework for elucidating the influence mechanism of the social characteristics of anthropomorphic intelligent services (chatbots) on consumer behavioral intentions. An empirical study of Chinese consumers (n = 442) reveals the following: first, the social presence of chatbots exerts a direct and positive impact on retailer experience innovativeness and intimacy; second, retailer experiential innovativeness, intimacy, and sense of empowerment mediate the influence of the social presence of chatbots on consumers' behavioral intentions; third, the cute communication styles in the low‐level social presence are very conducive for promoting the relationships between social presence and experiential innovativeness. By improving the level of social presence, formal communication styles can play a key role in promoting relationships. Theoretically, this study contributes to the social presence theory by extending it to the interaction with retailer experiential innovativeness and exploring the chain‐like mediating role of experiential innovativeness, as well as the self‐determined satisfaction between the social presence and consumer behavior intentions. Furthermore, this study also examines how different chatbot communication styles moderate the influence of social presence on consumers' behavioral intentions, thereby revealing the differential effects and boundary conditions of chatbot social presence on consumer behaviors. These findings will offer retailers insights into consumers' psychological activities to practically design chatbots and conduct smart retail innovation activities.
Heterostructured Perylene Diimide (PDI) Supramolecular Nanorods with SnO2 Quantum Dots for Enhanced Visible‐Light Photocatalytic Activity and Stability
Authors: Liu Di , Li Yi , Zhang XinLing , Yang Li , Luo Xin
Published: February 2022

A novel SnO2 QDs (quantum dots)/PDI heterojunction photocatalyst was successfully constructed by a simple in‐situ compounded method and exhibited highly enhanced photocatalytic performance and long‐term stability under visible light irradiation. The results of ISI‐XPS and AFM‐KPFM revealed that the effective photo‐generated electrons transferred from PDI supramolecular nanorods to closely attached to SnO2 QDs, which was driven by a giant built‐in electric field across this hetero‐interface, thus highly improved the migration and separation of photo‐generated carriers. Importantly, we have proved for the first time that the formation of heterojunction can effectively hinder the generation of PDI anion radicals (PDI.−), thereby realized improved photocatalytic stability of PDI supramolecular aggregates by reducing the dissociation of PDI supramolecular caused by electrostatic repulsion interaction between PDI.− units. Furthermore, the established high structure and morphology stability also supported its excellent photocatalytic stability.
Unfolding the Role of Building Units of MOFs with Mechanistic Insight Towards Selective Metal Ions Detection in Water**
Authors: Fajal Sahel , Mandal Writakshi , Majumder Dipanjan , Shirolkar Mandar M. , More Yogeshwar D. , Ghosh Sujit K.
Published: February 2022

The potential emergence of fluorescence‐based techniques has propelled research towards developing probes that can sense trace metal ions specifically. Although luminescent metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs) are well suited for this application, the role of building blocks towards detection is not fully understood. In this work, a systematic screening by varying number of Lewis basic (pyridyl‐N atoms) sites is carried out in a series of isostructural, robust UiO‐67 MOFs, and targeting a model metal ion‐Fe3+. All the three fluorescent MOFs are seen to present quenching response towards Fe3+ ions in water. However, UiO‐67@N exhibits highly selective and sensitive response, whereas emission of both UiO‐67 and UiO‐67@NN is quenched by several metal ions. Detailed experimental and theoretical mechanistic investigation is carried out in addition to demonstration of UiO‐67@N being able to sense trace amount of Fe3+ ions in synthetic biological water sample. Further, UiO‐67@N based mixed‐matrix membrane (MMM) has been prepared and employed to mimic the real time Fe3+ ions detection in water.
Asymmetric Synthesis of Axially Chiral C−N Atropisomers
Authors: Rodríguez‐Salamanca Patricia , Fernández Rosario , Hornillos Valentín , Lassaletta José M.
Published: February 2022

Molecules with restricted rotation around a single bond or atropisomers are found in a wide number of natural products and bioactive molecules as well as in chiral ligands for asymmetric catalysis and smart materials. Although most of these compounds are biaryls and heterobiaryls displaying a C−C stereogenic axis, there is a growing interest in less common and more challenging axially chiral C−N atropisomers. This review offers an overview of the various methodologies available for their asymmetric synthesis. A brief introduction is initially given to contextualize these axially chiral skeletons, including a historical background and examples of natural products containing axially chiral C−N axes. The preparation of different families of C−N based atropisomers is then presented from anilides to chiral five‐ and six‐membered ring heterocycles. Special emphasis has been given to modern catalytic asymmetric strategies over the past decade for the synthesis of these chiral scaffolds. Applications of these methods to the preparation of natural products and biologically active molecules will be highlighted along the text.
Direct gem‐Difluoroalkenylation of X−H Bonds with Trifluoromethyl Ketone N‐Triftosylhydrazones for Synthesis of Tetrasubstituted Heteroatomic gem‐Difluoroalkenes
Authors: Zhang Xinyu , Li Linxuan , Zanoni Giuseppe , Han Xinyue , Bi Xihe
Published: February 2022

The direct gem‐difluoroalkenylation of X−H bonds represents the most straightforward approach to access heteroatomic gem‐difluoroalkenes that, as the isostere of the carbonyl group, have great potency in drug discovery. However, the construction of tetrasubstituted heteroatomic gem‐difluoroalkenes by this strategy is still an unsolved problem. Here, we report the first direct X−H bond gem‐difluoroalkenylation of amines and alcohols with trifluoromethyl ketone N‐triftosylhydrazones under silver (for (hetero)aryl hydrazones) or rhodium (for alkyl hydrazones), thereby providing a most powerful method for the synthesis of tetrasubstituted heteroatomic gem‐difluoroalkenes. This method features a broad substrate scope, high product yield, excellent functional group tolerance, and operational simplicity (open air conditions). Moreover, the site‐specific replacement of the carbonyl group with a gem‐difluorovinyl ether bioisostere in drug Trimebutine and the post‐modification of bioactive molecules demonstrates potential use in medicinal research. Finally, the reaction mechanism was investigated by combining experiments and DFT calculations, and disclosed that the key step of HF elimination occurred via five‐membered ring transition state, and the difference in the electrophilicity of Ag‐ and Rh‐carbenes as well as the multiple intermolecular interactions rendered the effectiveness of Rh catalyst selectively for alkyl hydrazones.
Expanding the Repertoire of Low‐Molecular‐Weight Pentafluorosulfanyl‐Substituted Scaffolds
Authors: Jose Arathy , Guest Daniel , LeGay Remi , Tizzard Graham J. , Coles Simon J. , Derveni Mariliza , Wright Edward , Marrison Lester , Lee Alpha A. , Morris Aaron , Robinson Matt , von Delft Frank , Fearon Daren , Koekemoer Lizbé , Matviuk Tetiana , Aimon Anthony , Schofield Christopher J. , Malla Tika R. , London Nir , Greenland Barnaby W. , Bagley Mark C. , Spencer John , The Covid Moonshot Consortium
Published: February 2022

The pentafluorosulfanyl (‐SF5) functional group is of increasing interest as a bioisostere in medicinal chemistry. A library of SF5‐containing compounds, including amide, isoxazole, and oxindole derivatives, was synthesised using a range of solution‐based and solventless methods, including microwave and ball‐mill techniques. The library was tested against targets including human dihydroorotate dehydrogenase (HDHODH). A subsequent focused approach led to synthesis of analogues of the clinically used disease modifying anti‐rheumatic drugs (DMARDs), Teriflunomide and Leflunomide, considered for potential COVID‐19 use, where SF5 bioisostere deployment led to improved inhibition of HDHODH compared with the parent drugs. The results demonstrate the utility of the SF5 group in medicinal chemistry.
Turnover and nestedness drive plant diversity benefits of organic farming from local to landscape scales
Authors: Carrié Romain , Ekroos Johan , Smith Henrik G.
Published: February 2022

Biodiversity‐benefits of organic farming have mostly been documented at the field scale. However, these benefits from organic farming to species diversity may not propagate to larger scales because variation in the management of different crop types and seminatural habitats in conventional farms might allow species to cope with intensive crop management. We studied flowering plant communities using a spatially replicated design in different habitats (cereal, ley and seminatural grasslands) in organic and conventional farms, distributed along a gradient in proportion of seminatural grasslands. We developed a novel method to compare the rates of species turnover within and between habitats, and between the total species pools in the two farming systems. We found that the intrahabitat species turnover did not differ between organic and conventional farms, but that organic farms had a significantly higher interhabitat turnover of flowering plant species compared with conventional ones. This was mainly driven by herbicide‐sensitive species in cereal fields in organic farms, as these contained 2.5 times more species exclusive to cereal fields compared with conventional farms. The farm‐scale species richness of flowering plants was higher in organic compared with conventional farms, but only in simple landscapes. At the interfarm level, we found that 36% of species were shared between the two farming systems, 37% were specific to organic farms whereas 27% were specific to conventional ones. Therefore, our results suggest that that both community nestedness and species turnover drive changes in species composition between the two farming systems. These large‐scale shifts in species composition were driven by both species‐specific herbicide and nitrogen sensitivity of plants. Our study demonstrates that organic farming should foster a diversity of flowering plant species from local to landscape scales, by promoting unique sets of arable‐adapted species that are scarce in conventional systems. In terms of biodiversity conservation, our results call for promoting organic farming over large spatial extents, especially in simple landscapes, where such transitions would benefit plant diversity most.
A global review of socioeconomic and environmental impacts of ants reveals new insights for risk assessment
Authors: Gruber Monica A. M. , Santoro Davide , Cooling Meghan , Lester Philip J. , Hoffmann Benjamin D. , Boser Christina , Lach Lori
Published: February 2022

Risk assessments are fundamental to invasive species management and are underpinned by comprehensive characterization of invasive species impacts. Our understanding of the impacts of invasive species is growing constantly, and several recently developed frameworks offer the opportunity to systematically categorize environmental and socioeconomic impacts of invasive species. Invasive ants are among the most widespread and damaging invaders. Although a handful of species receives most of the policy attention, nearly 200 species have established outside their native range. Here, we provide a global, comprehensive assessment of the impacts of ants and propose a priority list of risk species. We used the Socioeconomic Impact Classification for Alien Taxa (SEICAT), Environmental Impact Classification for Alien Taxa (EICAT) and Generic Impact Scoring System (GISS) to analyze 642 unique sources for 100 named species. Different methodologies provided generally consistent results. The most frequently identified socioeconomic impacts were to human health. Environmental impacts were primarily on animal and plant populations, with the most common mechanisms being predation and competition. Species recognized as harmful nearly 20 years ago featured prominently, including Wasmannia auropunctata (little fire ant, electric ant), Solenopsis invicta (red imported fire ant), Anoplolepis gracilipes (yellow crazy ant), and Pheidole megacephala (African big‐headed ant). All these species except W. auropunctata have been implicated in local extinctions of native species. Although our assessments affirmed that the most serious impacts have been driven by a small number of species, our results also highlighted a substantial number of less well publicized species that have had major environmental impacts and may currently be overlooked when prioritizing prevention efforts. Several of these species were ranked as high or higher than some of the previously recognized “usual suspects,” most notably Nylanderia fulva (tawny crazy ant). We compared and combined our assessments with trait‐based profiles and other lists to propose a consensus set of 31 priority species. Ever‐increasing global trade contributes to growing rates of species introductions. The integrated approaches we used can contribute to robust, holistic risk assessments for many taxa entrained in these pathways.
General‐purpose computation of two‐axis frequency characteristics of power converter circuit for stability analysis controlled in αβ frame
Authors: Kaneko Akinobu , Kato Toshiji , Inoue Kaoru
Published: February 2022

Frequency characteristics for a converter are necessary to design circuit and control parameters and they are utilized, for example, for stability analysis by the impedance method. This paper proposes an automatic formulation and analysis method, which are based on a general‐purpose simulation algorithm for the frequency analysis of an averaged power converter, based on node‐connection and model characteristic information of circuit and control elements. The general equation formulation method is extended to be able to include circuits controlled in αβ frame and characteristic expressions with αβ or dq frame. As the first application example, a three‐phase grid‐following inverter with a digital sinusoidal controller based on the complex vector theory in αβ frame is analyzed for the frequency characteristics of the output admittances. The characteristics are utilized for stability analysis by the impedance method and the inverter is assured to have passive characteristics and to be stable. As the second example, a three‐phase inverter is analyzed for its αβ and dq impedances. The proposed method is investigated for the computed results and it is validated.
Common mode noise suppression control for two‐motor drive systems
Authors: Hanioka Shota , Iezawa Masahiro , Ogasawara Satoshi , Takemoto Masatsugu , Orikawa Koji
Published: February 2022

This paper introduces a pulse‐width modulation (PWM) method for a two‐motor drive system that reduces the propagation of conduction noise to the power supply. This two‐motor drive system consists of two motors with two inverters, each of which is connected to a common DC bus. The proposed method suppresses the common mode voltage ideally to zero by shifting the rise and fall times of the output voltage of each inverter. Our experimental results show that the rise and fall times of the output voltage can be synchronized even when the two inverters are driven at different amplitudes and frequencies. We confirm that the proposed method suppresses the propagation of conduction noise to the power supply.
Matching algorithm for compact ride‐sharing in rural area using genetic algorithm
Authors: Takano Shina , Chida Shinya , Horita Yuukou
Published: February 2022

To solve the last mile problem in rural areas, we deal with compact ride‐sharing model. For reducing the computational cost, we use a simple GA method and compared the performance of the parameters. To simplify the problem, our algorithm use a simple linear distance and minimize the total traveling distance. A data set used for GA was based on the Inami area in Nanto City, Toyama Prefecture, that is a real case study region. The performance comparison experiment of the algorithm by changing parameters was carried out. Experimental results show that the algorithm is likely to give correct answers for up to four vehicles. It was also shown that the combination of population size and elite proportion for GA could reduce computational costs while ensuring accuracy. In addition, by ride‐sharing was actually carried out using the obtained experimental result, it was shown that it could be applied to the actual route even if the calculation was carried out in the linear distance.
Nondistractive extraction of intracellular molecules from yeast using PEF‐assisted autolysis
Authors: Okamoto Shuji , Murakami Yoji , Urabe Gen , Katsuki Sunao
Published: February 2022

This paper discusses the possibility of nondestructive extraction of intracellular proteins of yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) by means of pulsed electric fields (PEFs) combined with autolysis. First, the effects of PEFs (20 kV/cm, 600 ns) on yeast and the subsequent cell wall collapse phenomenon were studied by morphological observation of fluorescence staining. Morphological observation shows that the PEFs increase the permeability of the cell membrane and also disrupt the intracellular vacuoles, whereas the cell wall morphology remains unchanged. However, the cell wall was collapse during the postPEF incubation. Next, the amount of extracted protein was evaluated by using the BCA assay. The amount of extracted protein in the PEF treated suspension was only a little, whereas the additional incubation promotes the extraction. Lastly, the size of the extracted proteins was investigated by using both Native‐PAGE and SDS‐PAGE. The PEF‐treated and incubated suspension contains the large protein over 250 kDa.