bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Determinantes sociais e biológicos da mortalidade infantil no Recôncavo da Bahia
Authors: Nascimento dos Anjos Caroline , Santos Mello Carolina , Da Mota Santana Jerusa
Published: September 2021

Introdução: o Recôncavo é um território de identidade da Bahia propenso a sofrer mais iniquidades sociais, o que pode gerar repercussões negativas nas condições de vida e saúde das crianças e, assim, impactar no Coeficiente de Mortalidade Infantil (CMI). Objetivo: analisar a associação entre os determinantes sociais e biológicos da saúde e a mortalidade infantil nos municípios do Recôncavo da Bahia, no período de 2010 a 2019. Metodologia: estudo ecológico, com dados de Sistemas de Informações em Saúde. Dados de CMI por 1000 nascidos vivos (NV) foram avaliados temporalmente no Recôncavo da Bahia, do ano de 2010 a 2019. Regressão Quantílica foi utilizada para análise do desfecho (CMI) e variáveis de exposição (determinantes). Resultados: o CMI no Recôncavo da Bahia apresentou importantes variações no período avaliado, passando de 9,7/1.000NV em 2010, para 13,1/1.000NV em 2019. Identificou-se associação positiva do CMI com Índice de Gini e uma associação inversa entre o CMI e Índice de Desenvolvimento Humano Municipal (IDHM). Conclusão: no período de 2010 a 2019 houve um aumento de 35% no CMI, no Recôncavo da Bahia. A mortalidade infantil no Recôncavo da Bahia é determinada socialmente pelo Índice de Gini e IDHM. As condições de saúde das crianças podem sofrer consequências em um contexto de aumento da vulnerabilidade social e políticas de subfinanciamento da saúde.
Desvios da peça-conferência Como se tornar estúpido em 60 minutos
Authors: Sanches João
Published: September 2021

O artigo discute estratégias de criação da peça-conferência Como se tornar estúpido em 60 minutos, encenada em Salvador nos anos de 2018 e 2019. São abordados aspectos recorrentes no teatro contemporâneo como a enunciação direta para a plateia, o discurso monodramático e as tentativas de emersão do real em cena. A perspectiva teórica do trabalho baseia-se em noções ampliadas de dramaturgia, como a proposta pelo teórico José Sanchez, assim como nas noções de crise do drama e desvio, formuladas respectivamente por Peter Szondi e por Jean-Pierre Sarrazac. O estudo ainda dialoga com o trabalho de outros artistas e teóricos como Fernando Kinas, Patrice Pavis e Erika Fischer-Lichte.
Apresentação: Dramaturgia em seu Campo Expandido
Authors: Scialom Melina
Published: September 2021

O panorama contemporâneo de práticas artísticas vem permitindo que conceitos seculares sejam revisados perante o fazer cênico de hoje. Este é o caso do conceito de Dramaturgia. De acordo com José Sánchez e Magda Romanska a dramaturgia enquanto substantivo e enquanto verbo vem sendo desenvolvida para além do fazer teatral textual para ser vista como um espaço de mediação que traz questionamentos ao fazer cênico, antecedendo ou estando para além do texto teatral. Considerando a produção cada vez maior de atividades e processos artísticos que dialogam e trazem nova práxis para o conceito de dramaturgia, esse dossiê - Dramaturgias em seu Campo Expandido - da revista Repertório busca revelar os trabalhos de artistas e pesquisadores brasileiros que vêm trazendo perspectivas inovadoras para o conceito e prática para além dos paradigmas tradicionais. Estes trabalhos estabelecem diálogos com o  conceito de dramaturgia que vai além da identificação do termo relacionado a ideia de drama ou composição de textos/literatura teatral ou mesmo da figura do dramaturgo como sendo autor da obra, se aproximando de uma prática onde dramaturgia opera como uma atenção, uma sensibilidade, um recurso no e do processo criativo ou até para além dos limites da cena. O conjunto de artigos revela a dramaturgia em seu campo expandido evidenciando a rede de tensões entre tradição e contemporaneidade do e no fazer cênico através de experiências artísticas diversas.
Enhancing the Energy Storage Capabilities of Ti3C2Tx MXene Electrodes by Atomic Surface Reduction
Authors: Saha Arka , Shpigel Netanel , Rosy  , Leifer Nicole , Taragin Sarah , Sharabani Tali , Aviv Hagit , Perelshtein Ilana , Nessim Gilbert Daniel , Noked Malachi , Gogotsi Yury
Published: September 2021

MXenes are a large class of 2D materials that consist of few‐atoms‐thick layers of transition metal carbides, nitrides, or carbonitrides. The surface functionalization of MXenes has immense implications for their physical, chemical, and electronic properties. However, solution‐phase surface functionalization often leads to structural degradation of the MXene electrodes. Here, a non‐conventional, single‐step atomic surface reduction (ASR) technique is adopted for the surface functionalization of MXene (Ti3C2Tx) in an atomic layer deposition reactor using trimethyl aluminum as a volatile reducing precursor. The chemical nature of the modified surface is characterized by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy and nuclear magnetic resonance techniques. The electrochemical properties of the surface‐modified MXene are evaluated in acidic and neutral aqueous electrolyte solutions, as well as in conventional Li‐ion and Na‐ion organic electrolytes. A considerable improvement in electrochemical performance is obtained for the treated electrodes in all the examined electrolyte solutions, expressed in superior rate capability and cycling stability compared to those of the non‐treated MXene films. This improved electrochemical performance is attributed to the increased interlayer spacing and modified surface terminations after the ASR process.
Compensated Ferrimagnet Based Artificial Synapse and Neuron for Ultrafast Neuromorphic Computing
Authors: Liu Jiahao , Xu Teng , Feng Hongmei , Zhao Le , Tang Jianshi , Fang Liang , Jiang Wanjun
Published: September 2021

Spintronic devices are considered a possible solution for the hardware implementation of artificial synapses and neurons, as a result of their non‐volatility, high scalability, complementary metal‐oxide‐semiconductor transistor compatibility, and low power consumption. As compared to ferromagnets, ferrimagnet‐based spintronics exhibits equivalently fascinating properties that have been witnessed in ultrafast spin dynamics, together with efficient electrical or optical manipulation. Their applications in neuromorphic computing, however, have still not been revealed, which motivates the present experimental study. Here, by using compensated ferrimagnets containing Co0.80Gd0.20 with perpendicular magnetic anisotropy, it is demonstrated that the behavior of spin‐orbit torque switching in compensated ferrimagnets could be used to mimic biological synapses and neurons. In particular, by using the anomalous Hall effect and magneto‐optical Kerr effect imaging measurements, the ultrafast stimulation of artificial synapses and neurons is illustrated, with a time scale down to 10 ns. Using experimentally derived device parameters, a three‐layer fully connected neural network for handwritten digits recognition is further simulated, based on which, an accuracy of more than 93% could be achieved. The results identify compensated ferrimagnets as an intriguing candidate for the ultrafast neuromorphic spintronics.
Tuning the Volume Phase Transition Temperature of Microgels by Light
Authors: Jelken Joachim , Jung Se‐Hyeong , Lomadze Nino , Gordievskaya Yulia D. , Kramarenko Elena Yu. , Pich Andrij , Santer Svetlana
Published: September 2021

Temperature‐responsive microgels find widespread applications as soft materials for designing actuators in microfluidic systems, as carriers for drug delivery or catalysts, as functional coatings, and as adaptable sensors. The key property is their volume phase transition temperature, which allows for thermally induced reversible swelling/deswelling. It is determined by the gel's chemical structure as well as network topology and cannot be varied easily within one system. Here a paradigm change of this notion by facilitating a light‐triggered reversible switching of the microgel volume in the range between 32 and 82 °C is suggested. Photo‐sensitivity is introduced by photosensitive azobenzene containing surfactant, which forms a complex with microgels consisting of poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide‐co‐acrylic acid) (PNIPAM‐AAc) chains when assuming a hydrophobic trans‐state, and prefers to leave the gel matrix in its cis‐state. Using a similar strategy, it is demonstrated that at a fixed temperature, for example, 37 °C, one can reversibly change the microgel radius by a factor of 3 (7–21 µm) by irradiating either with UV (collapsed state) or green light (swollen state). It is envisaged that the possibility to deploy a swift external means of adapting the swelling behavior of microgels may impact and redefine the latter's application across all fields.
Ultrathin 2D Titanium Carbide MXene (Ti3C2Tx) Nanoflakes Activate WNT/HIF‐1α‐Mediated Metabolism Reprogramming for Periodontal Regeneration
Authors: Cui Di , Kong Na , Ding Liang , Guo Yachong , Yang Wenrong , Yan Fuhua
Published: September 2021

Periodontal defect regeneration in severe periodontitis relies on the differentiation and proliferation of periodontal ligament cells (PDLCs). Recently, an emerging 2D nanomaterial, MXene (Ti3C2Tx), has gained more and more attention due to the extensive antibacterial and anticancer activity, while its potential biomedical application on tissue regeneration remains unclear. Through a combination of experimental and multiscale simulation schemes, Ti3C2Tx has exhibited satisfactory biocompatibility and induced distinguish osteogenic differentiation of human PDLCs (hPDLCs), with upregulated osteogenesis‐related genes. Ti3C2Tx manages to activate the Wnt/β‐catenin signaling pathway by enhancing the Wnt‐Frizzled complex binding, thus stabilizing HIF‐1α and altering metabolic reprogramming into glycolysis. In vivo, hPDLCs pretreated by Ti3C2Tx display excellent performance in new bone formation and osteoclast inhibition with enhanced RUNX2, HIF‐1α, and β‐catenin in an experimental rat model of periodontal fenestration defects, indicating that this material has high efficiency of periodontal regeneration promotion. It is demonstrated in this work that Ti3C2Tx has highly efficient therapeutic effects in osteogenic differentiation and periodontal defect repairment.
Hedonic property prices and coastal beach width
Authors: Landry Craig E. , Turner Dylan , Allen Tom
Published: September 2021

Previous research suggests that coastal housing values capitalize the quality of nearby beaches but note potential problems related to measurement errors and reverse causation due to beach replenishment. We offer the first hedonic analysis of communities not engaged in beach replenishment, obviating concern over reverse causation. Statistical evidence supports hedonic specifications that account for proximity to the shoreline, though marginal willingness to pay (WTP) varies with the specification. Using an instrumental variables approach, we find significant downward bias in ordinary least squares estimates of marginal WTP derived from the sale of vacant lots compared to two‐stage least squares estimates on the same vacant lots. Notably, we do not find evidence of the same downward bias in WTP derived from the sale of existing homes.
Implementation of holistic review into emergency medicine residency application screening to improve recruitment of underrepresented in medicine applicants
Authors: Sungar W. Gannon , Angerhofer Christy , McCormick Taylor , Zimmer Shanta , Druck Jeff , Kaplan Bonnie , Ward‐Gaines Jacqueline
Published: September 2021

Introduction

Increasing the diversity of the emergency medicine (EM) workforce is imperative, with more diverse teams showing improved patient care and increased innovation. Holistic review, adapted from the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC), focuses on screening applicants with a balanced method, valuing their experiences, attributes, and academic metrics equally. A core tenet to holistic review is that diversity is essential to excellence.

Objective

Implementation of holistic review into the residency application screening process is effective at improving exposure to underrepresented in medicine (URiM) applicants.

Methods

After adjustment of our residency application screening rubric, improving our balance across the experience, attributes, and metrics domains, we conducted a retrospective cohort study comparing the representation of URiM applicants invited to interview, interviewed, and ranked by composite score compared to our previous primarily metric‐based process.

Results

A total of 8,343 applicants were included in the study. Following implementation of holistic review, we saw an increase in the absolute percent of URiM applicants invited to interview (+11%, 95% confidence interview [CI] = 6.9% to 15.4%, p < 0.01), interviewed (+7.9%, 95% CI = 3.6% to 12.2%, p < 0.01), and represented in the top 75 through top 200 cutpoints based on composite score rank. The mean composite score for URiM applicants increased significantly compared to non‐URiM applicants (+9.7, 95% CI = 8.2 to 11.2, p < 0.01 vs. +4.7, 95% CI = 3.5 to 5.9, p < 0.01).

Conclusion

Holistic review can be used as a systematic and equitable tool to increase the exposure and recruitment of URiM applicants in EM training programs.
Helping the learner to deal with microaggressions in the workplace: Individual, programmatic, and institutional‐level responses
Authors: Miller Danielle T. , Chen Esther H.
Published: September 2021

Microaggressions are frequently experienced by learners in the workplace and can create a hostile learning environment. Many faculty educators lack formal training in supporting their learners after incidents of microaggressions. Supervising faculty should be able to recognize and respond to microaggressions against trainees in the clinical environment. In this commentary, we will briefly review the definition of microaggressions, summarize the impact of microaggressions on trainees, provide a framework for managing microaggressions on an individual level when the patient offends the learner, and highlight strategies to mitigate microaggressions on a programmatic and institutional level.
Planning for diverse, equitable, inclusive research in health professions education: An integral thread in the ARMED MedEd research course
Authors: Coates Wendy C. , Yarris Lalena M. , Smith Teresa Y. ,   the Emergency Medicine Health Professions Education Research Consortium (EMPERC)
Published: September 2021

Racism in medicine affects patients, trainees, and practitioners and contributes to health care inequities. An effective strategy to actively oppose the structural racism ingrained in the fabric of medicine is to intentionally and systematically address diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in medical education and research. As part of ARMED MedEd, a new longitudinal cohort course in advanced research methods in medical education, sponsored by the Society for Academic Emergency Medicine, the leadership team deliberately included a nested DEI curriculum. The goal of the DEI curriculum is to reduce bias in development, recruitment, and implementation of education research studies to promote equity and inclusion in medical education, research, and ultimately, patient care. A team of medical educators with expertise in DEI developed curricular elements focusing on DEI in education research. The two major components are a didactic curriculum (including implicit bias training) to teach researchers to consider equity as they design studies and a consultative service to refine research protocols to address lingering unintended bias. A dedicated focus on DEI can be incorporated into an advanced education research methodology course to raise awareness and provide tools to avoid bias in research design and implementation of interventions. Over time, the network of education researchers who are trained in DEI awareness will grow and provide equitable offerings to their learners to mitigate health inequities.
The predictive utility of the 22‐item sino‐nasal outcome test (SNOT‐22): A scoping review
Authors: Liu Matthew , Liu Jeremy , Weitzel Erik K. , Chen Philip G.
Published: September 2021

Background

The 22‐item sino‐nasal outcome test (SNOT‐22) is a widely used and powerful patient‐reported outcomes measure for chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). More recently; however, the SNOT‐22 has been evaluated as a predictive tool for multiple conditions. The objective of this scoping review is to investigate the extent to which SNOT‐22 is used in this manner and present this information in a way useful for clinicians.

Methods

A systematic search of PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science was performed. Studies that evaluated SNOT‐22s predictive utility were considered for eligibility in this scoping review.

Results

A total of 39 studies met eligibility. The SNOT‐22 was found to be used as a predictive tool in three broad categories: (1) to predict a diagnosis, (2) to predict an outcome of an intervention, and (3) to predict a patient treatment preference. Thirteen studies were included in the diagnosis category, which made up ten different individual predictions. Twenty‐four studies were included in the outcomes category and investigated 17 different individual predictions. Finally, two studies were included in the patient preferences category, which together made one prediction.

Conclusions

The SNOT‐22 is a versatile tool that has the potential to be used in predicting various diagnoses, outcomes, and patient preferences. However, care must be taken in applying these predictions to clinical practice, as further research must be done in validating these predictions based on SNOT‐22 responses.
The use of LiDAR in reconstructing the pre‐World War II landscapes of abandoned mountain villages in southern Poland
Authors: Affek Andrzej N. , Wolski Jacek , Latocha Agnieszka , Zachwatowicz Maria , Wieczorek Małgorzata
Published: September 2021

The cessation of most human activities resulting from post‐World War II expulsions and forced displacements in Central Europe triggered massive land cover transformation in mountainous areas. However, many pre‐War traces of past landscapes have survived—imprinted in microtopography—in permanently abandoned villages. Currently, they constitute unique cultural heritage of communities no longer in existence. Our main goal was therefore to reconstruct a lost cultural landscape of mountain villages abandoned after World War II (WWII). The case study area comprised three such villages located in southern Poland, two in the Carpathians and one in the Sudetes. We used the national airborne light detection and ranging (LiDAR) dataset combined with archival cadastral maps and field survey to detect man‐made microtopographic features related to past boundaries, road network, agriculture and buildings and to interpret them in the landscape context. We demonstrated that the pre‐War human footprint left in relief was shaped largely by past landownership divisions, land use and environmental constraints (related to lithology, soils and topography). Our secondary goal was to assess the value and application opportunities of LiDAR in reconstructing past landscapes. We showed that 38–70% of non‐natural parcel boundaries and 65–79% of roads marked on mid‐19th‐century cadastral maps are still detectable using LiDAR. Therefore, we argue that the past landscape pattern, originating in late Middle Ages and subsequently transformed prior to WWII, remains well preserved in the relief and that LiDAR is an effective tool to reconstruct a past landscape of mountain villages abandoned after WWII. We also confirmed that customized LiDAR visualizations are more informative than ready‐to‐use shaded digital elevation models (DEMs), in particular when integrated with cadastral and field‐based data. We conclude that the greatest advantage of LiDAR is the capacity to provide a landscape context for isolated traces of past human activity, allowing for the reconstruction of entire spatial patterns and interrelationships developed by past societies.
Anti‐swing control and trajectory planning of quadrotor suspended payload system with variable length cable
Authors: Yang Yunxiao , Zhang Dong , Xi Houyin , Zhang Guoqing
Published: September 2021

Different from the quadrotor suspended payload system with fixed length cable, the system with variable length cable can load and unload cargoes more efficiently under many conditions. This paper presents a method of modeling, control, and trajectory planning for a quadrotor suspended payload system with variable length cable. In order to effectively reduce the swing of the slung payload under the quadrotor, a coupled dynamic model and an integral backstepping control scheme for the system are designed, and a basic trajectory planning is carried out. The presented coupled dynamic model is composed of two parts, one is the dynamic equation of the quadrotor with payload pull, and the other is the dynamic model of the payload pendulum angles with variable length cable related with quadrotor flight acceleration. Meanwhile, the interaction forces between them are calculated. Based on the coupled dynamic model of the system, a cascade control scheme with trajectory planning is designed. The attitude and position control loop of the system adopt the integral backstepping algorithm to solve the reliable flight of quadrotor with slung payload. At the same time, the flight trajectories are generated by trajectory planning as the reference input of the control system, which can further reduce the payload swing. Simulation results show that the proposed scheme can realize stable and reliable flight of the quadrotor and limit the pendulum angles within the desired range to reduce the payload swing.
Equalizing bias in eliciting attribute weights in multiattribute decision‐making: experimental research
Authors: Rezaei Jafar , Arab Alireza , Mehregan Mohammadreza
Published: September 2021

One of the most important steps in formulating and solving a multiattribute decision‐making (MADM) problem is weighting the attributes. Most existing weighting methods are based on judgments by experts/decision‐makers, which are prone to several cognitive biases, making it necessary to examine these biases in MADM weighting methods and develop debiasing strategies. This study uses experimental analysis to look at equalizing bias—one of the main cognitive biases, where decision‐makers tend to assign the same weight to different attributes—in MADM methods. More specifically, we look at AHP (analytic hierarchy process), BWM (best‐worst method), PA (point allocation), SMART (simple multiattribute rating technique), and Swing methods under two structuring formats, hierarchical and non‐hierarchical. To empirically examine the existence of equalizing bias in these methods, we formulate several hypotheses, which are tested using a public transportation mode selection problem among 146 university students. The results indicate that AHP and BWM have less equalizing bias than SMART, Swing, and PA, and that the hierarchical problem structuring leads to a reduction in the equalizing bias in all five methods and that such a reduction significantly varies among the methods. Our findings prove some debiasing strategies suggested in existing literature, which could be used by real decision‐makers (when selecting a method) as well as researchers (when developing new methods).
Penalized joint generalized estimating equations for longitudinal binary data
Authors: Huang Youjun , Pan Jianxin
Published: September 2021

In statistical research, variable selection and feature extraction are a typical issue. Variable selection in linear models has been fully developed, while it has received relatively little attention for longitudinal data. Since a longitudinal study involves within‐subject correlations, the likelihood function of discrete longitudinal responses generally cannot be expressed in analytically closed form, and standard variable selection methods cannot be directly applied. As an alternative, the penalized generalized estimating equation (PGEE) is helpful but very likely results in incorrect variable selection if the working correlation matrix is misspecified. In many circumstances, the within‐subject correlations are of interest and need to be modeled together with the mean. For longitudinal binary data, it becomes more challenging because the within‐subject correlation coefficients have the so‐called Fréchet–Hoeffding upper bound. In this paper, we proposed smoothly clipped absolute deviation (SCAD)‐based and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO)‐based penalized joint generalized estimating equation (PJGEE) methods to simultaneously model the mean and correlations for longitudinal binary data, together with variable selection in the mean model. The estimated correlation coefficients satisfy the upper bound constraints. Simulation studies under different scenarios are made to assess the performance of the proposed method. Compared to existing PGEE methods that specify a working correlation matrix for longitudinal binary data, the proposed PJGEE method works much better in terms of variable selection consistency and parameter estimation accuracy. A real data set on Clinical Global Impression is analyzed for illustration.
A comparative analysis of recombinant Fab and full‐length antibody production in Chinese hamster ovary cells
Authors: Hussain Hirra , Patel Tulshi , Ozanne Angelica M. S. , Vito Davide , Ellis Mark , Hinchliffe Matthew , Humphreys David P. , Stephens Paul E. , Sweeney Bernie , White James , Dickson Alan J. , Smales Christopher M.
Published: September 2021

Monoclonal antibodies are the leading class of biopharmaceuticals in terms of numbers approved for therapeutic purposes. Antigen‐binding fragments (Fab) are also used as biotherapeutics and used widely in research applications. The dominant expression systems for full‐length antibodies are mammalian cell‐based, whereas for Fab molecules the preference has been an expression in bacterial systems. However, advances in CHO and downstream technologies make mammalian systems an equally viable option for small‐ and large‐scale Fab production. Using a panel of full‐length IgG antibodies and their corresponding Fab pair with different antigen specificities, we investigated the impact of the IgG and Fab molecule format on production from Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells and assessed the cellular capability to process and produce these formats. The full‐length antibody format resulted in the recovery of fewer mini‐pools posttransfection when compared to the corresponding Fab fragment format that could be interpreted as indicative of a greater overall burden on cells. Antibody‐producing cell pools that did recover were subsequently able to achieve higher volumetric protein yields (mg/L) and specific productivity than the corresponding Fab pools. Importantly, when the actual molecules produced per cell of a given format was considered (as opposed to mass), CHO cells produced a greater number of Fab molecules per cell than obtained with the corresponding IgG, suggesting that cells were more efficient at making the smaller Fab molecule. Analysis of cell pools showed that gene copy number was not correlated to the subsequent protein production. The amount of mRNA correlated with secreted Fab production but not IgG, whereby posttranscriptional processes act to limit antibody production. In summary, we provide the first comparative description of how full‐length IgG and Fab antibody formats impact on the outcomes of a cell line construction process and identify potential limitations in their production that could be targeted for engineering increases in the efficiency in the manufacture of these recombinant antibody formats.
A comprehensive review of the “supracondylar process” with translation of Adachi
Authors: Jenkins Skyler , Iwanaga Joe , Loukas Marios , Dumont Aaron S. , Tubbs R. Shane
Published: September 2021

The supracondylar process is a nonpathological projection from the distal humerus that in some patients, can result in compression of regional neurovascular structures, for example, median nerve. Since the first description of the supracondylar process in 1818, it has also been a focus of anthropological study because of its possible relevance to human origins and relationships to other species. Although its overall incidence is low, it is more common in races of European descent. It is particularly interesting for anatomists and anthropologists, but knowledge of its anatomical relationships and effect on pathological processes helps in the diagnosis and treatment of supracondylar process syndrome. One of the most detailed descriptions of this variant process stems from the work of Buntaro Adachi. Herein, a translation of his findings is provided and a review of the supracondylar process and its potential pathological presentations presented.
Chemical Constituents and Biological Properties of Genus Doronicum (Asteraceae)
Authors: Badalamenti Natale , Modica Aurora , Ilardi Vincenzo , Bruno Maurizio
Published: September 2021

The genus Doronicum, belonging to tribe Senecioneae (Fam. Asteraceae), is found mainly in the Asia, Europe and North Africa. This genus of plant has always been used in traditional medicinal treatments due to the many biological properties shown such as killing parasitic worms and for relieving constipation, as well as to improve heart health, to alleviate pain and inflammation, to treat insect bites, etc. According to the World Flora the genus Doronicum contains 39 subordinate taxa.[1–3] The purpose of this article, which covers data published from 1970 to 2021 with more than 110 articles, aims to carry out a complete and critical review of the Doronicum genus, examining traditional uses and reporting the antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti‐inflammatory and antitumor activity shown from crude extracts or essential oils, and from single isolated compounds. Furthermore, critical considerations of the published data have been highlighted by comparing them with the results obtained from species of other genus belonging to the Asteraceae family.
One Scaffold, Different Organelle Sensors: pH‐Activable Fluorescent Probes for Targeting Live Microglial Cell Organelles**
Authors: Jethava Krupal P. , Prakash Priya , Manchanda Palak , Arora Harshit , Chopra Gaurav
Published: September 2021

Targeting live cell organelles is essential for imaging, understanding, and controlling specific biochemical processes. Typically, fluorescent probes with distinct structural scaffolds are used to target specific cell organelles. Here, we have designed a modular one‐step synthetic strategy using a common reaction intermediate to develop new lysosomal, mitochondrial, and nucleus‐targeting pH‐activable fluorescent probes that are all based on a single boron dipyrromethane scaffold. The divergent cell organelle targeting was achieved by synthesizing probes with specific functional group changes to the central scaffold resulting in differential fluorescence and pKa. Specifically, we show that the functional group transformation of the same scaffold influences cellular localization and specificity of pH‐activable fluorescent probes in live primary microglial cells with pKa values ranging from ∼3.2–6.0. We introduce a structure‐organelle‐relationship (SOR) framework to target nuclei (NucShine), lysosomes (LysoShine), and mitochondria (MitoShine) in live microglia. This work will result in future applications of SOR beyond imaging to target and control organelle‐specific biochemical processes in disease‐specific models.
Alkali Depolymerization of Poly(ethylene terephthalate) in a Quasi‐solid‐solid Kneading Reaction
Authors: Biermann Lars , Quast David , Brepohl Esther , Eichert Carsten , Scholl Stephan
Published: September 2021

The alkaline depolymerization reaction of poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) under quasi‐solvent‐free conditions was investigated. This is a new approach for recycling PET waste to its monomer building blocks: terephthalic acid and ethylene glycol. The influence of base particle size, reaction temperature, and rotational speed of the employed laboratory kneader on terephthalic acid yield in the quasi‐solid‐solid reaction was investigated. PET is depolymerized almost quantitatively in a reaction time of 5 min at moderate reaction temperatures, with intense mixing affecting the yield of terephthalic acid. The quality of the terephthalic acid monomer, assessed by color index measurements, indicated that the reaction temperature primarily influences the color index of the monomer. By balancing terephthalic acid yield versus color index, optimum reaction conditions were proposed.
Togni‐II Reagent Mediated Selective Hydrotrifluoromethylation and Hydrothiolation of Alkenes†
Authors: Teng Shuang , Meng Lingkui , Xu Bingbing , Tu Guangsheng , Wu Peng , Liao Zhiwen , Tan Yulin , Guo Jian , Zeng Jing , Wan Qian
Published: September 2021

Main observation and conclusion

Based on the redox reactions of Togni‐II reagent and thiols, a thiol‐tuned selective functionalization of unactivated olefins was disclosed. In combination with aryl thiols, stoichiometric amount of Togni‐II reagent prompted a hydrotrifluoromethylation of alkenes, in which, aryl thiols played as reductant and hydrogen source; while by utilization of alkyl thiols, catalytic amount of Togni‐II reagent initiated thiol‐ene and thiol‐yne reactions. The reported applications are characterized by their operational simplicity and wide functional group tolerance.
Peptide or Protein‐Protected Metal Nanoclusters for Therapeutic Application
Authors: Chen Xiaolei , Ren Xiaojun , Gao Xueyun
Published: September 2021

Comprehensive Summary

Metal nanoclusters have attracted much attention due to their ultra‐small size and unique properties. The integration of protein or peptide can bring a synergistic effect on the physicochemical and physiological properties of metal clusters. Metal nanoclusters protected by peptides or proteins exhibit excellent biocompatibility and better disease therapeutic effects. We focus on developing new metal nanoclusters and exploring their therapeutic mechanism, including inhibiting enzyme activity, mitochondrial dysfunction, DNA strand break, and block of the signal pathway.

What is the most favorite and original chemistry developed in your research group?

The most favorite and original work we have done is the development of gold nanoclusters for diagnostic and therapeutic application.

How do you get into this specific field? Could you please share some experiences with our readers?

I have a great passion for research on bioanalytical imaging and the biomedical effects of nanomaterials, which may contribute to early diagnosis and treatment of diseases. My research is focused on exploring the mechanism of protein or peptide‐protected metal nanoclusters in disease diagnosis and treatment with the expectation of leading to superior therapeutic outcomes.

What is the most important personality for scientific research?

In my opinion, respect for originality, bold imagination, and innovation

are the most important qualities of scientific research.

What is your favorite journal(s)?

My favorite journal is Nature Nanotechnology, where we can see the top and latest research progress on nanomaterials and learn about the superiority of nanomaterials and their potential for development.

What are your hobbies?

I love classical culture, poetry, the beauty of the mood. I also like history, and enjoy visiting historical places to appreciate the local customs.

If you have anything else to tell our readers, please feel free to do so.

I hope that people who have just started independent research work will not rush for quick success, plan your own direction systematically from the long‐term development. Never go flat, but keep "climbing".
Coupling Interrupted Fischer and Multicomponent Joullié‐Ugi to Chase Chemical Diversity: from Batch to Sustainable Flow Synthesis of Peptidomimetics
Authors: Alfano Antonella Ilenia , Buommino Elisabetta , Ferraro Maria Grazia , Irace Carlo , Zampella Angela , Lange Heiko , Brindisi Margherita
Published: September 2021

The generation of peptidomimetic substructures for medicinal chemistry purposes requires effective and divergent synthetic methods. We present in this work an efficient flow process that allows quick modulation of reagents for Joullié‐Ugi multicomponent reaction, using spiroindolenines as core motifs. This sterically hindered imine equivalent could successfully be diversified using various isocyanides and amino acids in generally good space‐time yields. A telescoped flow process combining interrupted Fischer reaction for spiroindolenine synthesis and subsequent Joullié‐Ugi‐type modification resulted in product formation in very good overall yield in less than 2 hours compared to 48 hours required in batch mode. The developed protocol can be seen as a general tool for rapid and facile generation of peptidomimetic compounds. We also showcase preliminary biological assessments for the prepared compounds.
Energy‐saving H2 Generation Coupled with Oxidative Alcohol Refining over Bimetallic Phosphide Ni2P−CoP Junction Bifunctional Electrocatalysts
Authors: Wu Dan , Hao Jie , Wang Weilin , Yu Yan , Fu Xian‐Zhu , Luo Jing‐Li
Published: September 2021

The realization of large‐scale H2 production from electrocatalytic water splitting is severely impeded by the kinetically sluggish and economically less viable anodic oxygen evolution reaction. Here, an efficient strategy was established for the concurrent H2 production and oxidative alcohols refining into value‐added formate by utilizing self‐supported Ni2P−CoP bifunctional electrocatalysts. Benefiting from high intrinsic activity, abundant active sites, and synergistic promoting effects of bimetallic phosphides, the constructed two‐electrode electrolyzer required a cell voltage of around 1.3 V to achieve 10 mA cm−2, which is more than 200 mV lower than that of pure water splitting. Moreover, simultaneous productions of H2 with near‐unity conversion efficiency and formate at high faradaic efficiencies of 99.8 and 89.6 % oxidatively produced from methanol and glycerol, respectively, were achieved with excellent durability. This work presents a general and economic approach toward the fabrication of cost‐effective electrocatalysts for energy‐efficient and profitable large‐scale renewable energy integration.
Time in range in relation to amputation and all‐cause mortality in hospitalised patients with diabetic foot ulcers
Authors: Xie Puguang , Deng Bo , Zhang Xi , Li Yuyao , Du Chenzhen , Rui Shunli , Deng Wu , Boey Johnson , Armstrong David G. , Ma Yu , Deng Wuquan
Published: September 2021

Aims

The aim of this study was to evaluate the association of time in range (TIR) with amputation and all‐cause mortality in hospitalised patients with diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs).

Materials and Methods

A retrospective analysis was performed on 303 hospitalised patients with DFUs. During hospitalisation, TIR, mean blood glucose (MBG), coefficient of variation (CV), time above range (TAR) and time below range (TBR) of patients were determined from seven‐point blood glucose profiles. Participants were grouped based on their clinical outcomes (i.e., amputation and death). Logistic regression was employed to analyse the association of TIR with amputation and all‐cause mortality of inpatients with DFUs.

Results

Among the 303 enrolled patients, 50 (16.5%) had undergone amputation whereas seven (2.3%) were deceased. Blood glucose was determined in 41,012 samples obtained from all participants. Patients who underwent amputation had significantly lower TIR and higher MBG, CV, level 2 TAR and level 1 TBR whereas deceased patients had significantly lower TIR and higher MBG and level 2 TAR. Both amputation and all‐cause mortality rate declined with an increase in TIR quartiles. Logistic regression showed association of TIR with amputation (p = 0.034) and all‐cause mortality (p = 0.013) after controlling for 15 confounders. This association was similarly significant in all‐cause mortality after further adjustment for CV (p = 0.022) and level 1 TBR (p = 0.021), respectively.

Conclusions

TIR is inversely associated with amputation and all‐cause mortality of hospitalised patients with DFUs. Further prospective studies are warranted to establish a causal relationship between TIR and clinical outcomes in patients with DFUs.
NT‐proBNP/BNP ratio for prognostication in European Caucasian patients enrolled in a heart failure prevention programme
Authors: Sweeney Claire , Pharithi Rebabonye B. , Kerr Brian , Ryan Cristin , Ryan Fiona , Collins Líbhan , Halley Carmel , Barrett Matt , Watson Chris J. , McDonald Kenneth , Ledwidge Mark
Published: September 2021

Aims

Guidelines support the role of B‐type natriuretic peptide (BNP) and amino‐terminal pro‐BNP (NT‐proBNP) for risk stratification of patients in programmes to prevent heart failure (HF). Although biologically formed in a 1:1 ratio, the ratio of NT‐proBNP to BNP exhibits wide inter‐individual variability. A report on an Asian population suggests that molar NT‐proBNP/BNP ratio is associated with incident HF. This study aims to determine whether routine, simultaneous evaluation of both BNP and NT‐proBNP is warranted in a European, Caucasian population.

Methods and Results

We determined BNP and NT‐proBNP levels for 782 Stage A/B HF patients in the STOP‐HF programme. The clinical, echocardiographic, and biochemical associates of molar NT‐proBNP/BNP ratio were analysed. The primary endpoint was the adjusted association of baseline molar NT‐proBNP/BNP ratio with new‐onset HF and/or progression of left ventricular dysfunction (LVD). We estimated the C‐statistic, integrated discrimination improvement, and the category‐free net reclassification improvement metric for the addition of molar NT‐proBNP/BNP ratio to adjusted models. The median age was 66.6 years [interquartile range (IQR) 59.5–73.1], 371 (47.4%) were female, and median molar NT‐proBNP/BNP ratio was 1.91 (IQR 1.37–2.93). Estimated glomerular filtration rate, systolic blood pressure, left ventricular mass index, and heart rate were associated with NT‐proBNP/BNP ratio in a linear regression model (all P < 0.05). Over a median follow‐up period of 5 years (IQR 3.4–6.8), 247 (31.5%) patients developed HF or progression of LVD. Log‐transformed NT‐proBNP/BNP ratio is inversely associated with HF and LVD risk when adjusted for age, gender, diabetes, hypertension, vascular disease, obesity, heart rate, number of years of follow‐up, estimated glomerular filtration rate, and baseline NT‐proBNP (odds ratio 0.71, 95% confidence interval 0.55–0.91; P = 0.008). However, molar NT‐proBNP/BNP ratio did not increase the C‐statistic (Δ −0.01) and net reclassification improvement (0.0035) for prediction of HF and LVD compared with NT‐proBNP or BNP alone. Substitution of NT‐proBNP for BNP in the multivariable model eliminated the association with HF and LVD risk.

Conclusions

This study characterized, for the first time in a Caucasian Stage A/B HF population, the relationship between NT‐proBNP/BNP ratio and biological factors and demonstrated an inverse relationship with the future development of HF and LVD. However, this study does not support routine simultaneous BNP and NT‐proBNP measurement in HF prevention programmes amongst European, Caucasian patients.
Estimation of lithium‐ion battery state of charge for electric vehicles using a nonlinear state observer
Authors: Sakile Rajakumar , Sinha Umesh Kumar
Published: September 2021

The state of charge (SOC) estimation of lithium‐ion batteries is complex due to the various nonlinear uncertainties present in the battery. However, in this paper, a new nonlinear state observer (NSO) is proposed to be designed for the estimation of accurate and robust SOC. This proposed observer is suitable for both continuous and discrete‐time nonlinear systems. To design the nonlinear observer, two‐RC equivalent circuit model state equations are simulated for the dynamic behavior of the lithium‐ion battery. The seventh‐order polynomial fitting approach is assumed for the nonlinear relationship between open‐circuit voltage (OCV) and SOC, and the exponential fitting method is used to estimate the battery's offline parameters. Lyapunov's stability criterion achieves the stability and convergence capability of the proposed method. An urban dynamometer driving schedule (UDDS) cycle was adopted to estimate the performance of the proposed observer by comparing it with the well‐established methods like unscented Kalman filter (UKF) and sliding mode observer (SMO) algorithms, and it was found that the proposed observer achieved better performance like accurate SOC, high convergence capability, and less SOC error.
Exploring the design and introduction of the Ophelia (Optimising Health Literacy and Access) process in the Philippines: A qualitative case study
Authors: Stubbs Thomas
Published: September 2021

Issue addressed

The Ophelia (Optimising Health Literacy and Access) process is a systematic approach for improving access to health information and services through health literacy interventions. However, there is limited understanding of how this process can be adapted in low‐ and‐ middle‐income countries.

Methods

A qualitative case study was used to describe how an Ophelia project was designed and introduced in a community setting in the Philippines and to explore the experiences of stakeholders involved in this process. Two qualitative methods were used: document analysis (n = 12) and semi‐structured interviews (n = 12).

Results

Data showed that the project stakeholders had embedded the eight Ophelia principles in the design of the project, introduced the Ophelia process in one target community, and conducted a health literacy needs assessment. Project stakeholders faced challenges engaging with local authorities and community members in this location, but overcame these issues through building relationships and understanding their needs. Local authorities and stakeholders provided access to resources and knowledge of this target community.

Conclusions

The Ophelia process can be adapted for a community setting in the Philippines. Understanding local communities is crucial for introducing and engaging participation in this process.

So what?

The Ophelia process may have implications for increasing access to health information and services for vulnerable populations in the Philippines and the Asia Pacific.
Metal‐Organic Frameworks as a New Platform for Enantioselective Separations
Authors: Verma Gaurav , Mehta Ruhi , Kumar Sanjay , Ma Shengqian
Published: September 2021

The enantioselective separation of racemic mixtures is highly important in the pharmaceutical, food and agrochemical sector. Metal‐organic frameworks, as a class of highly porous materials are emerging as highly efficient and selective platforms for chiral recognition and separation owing to their ultrahigh porosities, functionalized pore walls, controllable pore chemistry and presence of highly ordered chiral recognition sites. In this review, we summarize the progress made in the synthesis of chiral MOFs via direct and indirect methods, followed by their applications in some important chiral separations of alcohols, drugs, amino acids, biologically relevant molecules and important chiral organic mixtures. The developments in chiral MOF membranes as thin films for practical industrial use are also explored. Finally, the outlook for the MOFs as emerging platforms for enantioseparation and the future directions are discussed.