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(1) Background: Green and open spaces are conducive to physical activity for the elderly. However, it is unclear how different landscape characteristics relate to the physical activity of the elderly. (2) Methods: following the PRISMA method, this study reviewed the existing literature on the landscape characteristics correlated with the elderly's physical activity (PA) from Web of Science, Scopus, and PubMed. We conducted a systematic full-text review of 25 eligible reports and studies related to the linkage between the characteristics of green and open spaces and the elderly's physical activity (PA); (3) Results: Nature/greenery, safety, road/path conditions, aesthetics, PA facilities, accessibility, amenity, water, and elderly accessibility facilities were found to be positively associated with elderly's PA. Pavement conditions (gravel), the presence of water, poor maintenance, neighborhood aesthetics, and GVI are negatively correlated with the elderly's PA; (4) Conclusions: We close the paper by making a few recommendations for future policy-making, practice, and research. It is suggested that the landscape characteristics be applied in evidence-based policy-making and design, and in tackling health inequality. Future research should be more specific about the impact of site-scale factors, include landscape characteristics specifically needed by the elderly to conduct PA, and involve a wider scope of green and open space on top of neighborhood green and open space and parks. Additionally, these studies should take into consideration different cultural settings and geographical scales to reveal the different effects of various aspects of green and open space. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Although social cognition is compromised in patients with neurodegenerative disorders such as behavioral variant frontotemporal dementia (bvFTD) and Alzheimer's disease (AD), research on moral emotions and their neural correlates in these populations is scarce. No previous study has explored the utility of moral emotions, compared to and in combination with classical general cognitive state tools, to discriminate bvFTD from AD patients. Objective: To examine self-conscious (guilt and embarrassment) and other-oriented (pity and indignation) moral emotions, their subjective experience, and their structural brain underpinnings in bvFTD (n = 31) and AD (n = 30) patients, compared to healthy controls (n = 37). We also explored the potential utility of moral emotions measures to discriminate bvFTD from AD. Methods: We used a modified version of the Moral Sentiment Task measuring the participants' accuracy scores and their emotional subjective experiences. Results: bvFTD patients exhibited greater impairments in self-conscious and other-oriented moral emotions as compared with AD patients and healthy controls. Moral emotions combined with general cognitive state tools emerged as useful measures to discriminate bvFTD from AD patients. In bvFTD patients, lower moral emotions scores were associated with lower gray matter volumes in caudate nucleus and inferior and middle temporal gyri. In AD, these scores were associated with lower gray matter volumes in superior and middle frontal gyri, middle temporal gyrus, inferior parietal lobule and supramarginal gyrus. Conclusion: These findings contribute to a better understanding of moral emotion deficits across neurodegenerative disorders, highlighting the potential benefits of integrating this domain into the clinical assessment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The capability to design and manufacture metal lattice structures is today one of the most promising targets of powder bed fusion technologies. Not only additively manufactured lattices offer great lightweighting possibilities but they also open the way to tailored and graded mechanical response. To best capitalize on this opportunity, research effort is first needed to assess the feasibility of reticular structures and to quantify the expected deviations from the nominal geometry, as a function of the cell topology and dimensions. Notwithstanding the inherent suitability of additive processes to complex shapes, this paper proposes a more exact definition of the technological boundaries for body‐centered cubic lattices, showing to what extent specific dimensional ratios, as well as a self‐supporting cell structure, can be favorable to minimize the deviation from the nominal reticulum in terms of dimensions, density, and presence of defects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The C−F bond activation of pentafluoropyridine and 2,3,5,6‐tetrafluoropyridine at [Ni(cod)2] (cod=1,5‐cyclooctadiene) in the presence of the phosphine PPh2(Ind) (Ind=3‐methyl‐2‐indolyl) led to the formation of the nickel(II) fluorido bis(phosphine) complexes trans‐[Ni(F)(2‐C5NF4){PPh2(Ind)}2] and trans‐[Ni(F)(2‐C5HNF3){PPh2(Ind)}2]. The complexes are characterized by the presence of intramolecular hydrogen bonds between the NH group of the phosphine ligands and the fluorido ligand. Stochiometric model reactions of nickel(II) fluorido complexes with PhB(OH)2 revealed that the former can be considered as intermediates in Suzuki–Miyaura cross coupling reactions. Catalytic experiments were attempted using 10 mol‐% of trans‐[Ni(F)(2‐C5NF4){PPh2(Ind)}2] as catalyst and the activities of the PPh2(Ind) complex were compared to the ones of an analogous nickel(II) fluorido complex, bearing PPh3 instead of PPh2(Ind) as ligands. The latter exhibited a somewhat lower catalytic activity suggesting a slight influence of the H‐bonds in the outer coordination sphere. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Physical effort is a primary component in models of economic behavior. However, applications that measure effort are historically scarce. This paper assesses the differences in physical activity between men and women through wearable accelerometers and uses these activity measures as a proxy for physical effort. Crucially, the accelerometer-generated data measures the level of physical activity associated with each activity or task recorded in the data. In this rural setting, women exert marginally higher levels of physical effort. However, differences in effort between men and women among married partners are strongly associated with differences in bargaining power, with larger husband-wife effort gaps alongside differences in age, individual land ownership, and an overall empowerment index. Physical activity can exhibit an unequal distribution between men and women suggesting that gender disadvantage, at least within couples, extends to the domain of physical effort. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work analyses damage formation within the bulk of basalt fiber-reinforced polymers (BFRP) by means of open-source Digital Volume Correlation (DVC). Volumetric image data were obtained from conventional in-situ X-Ray computed micro-tomography (µCT) of samples loaded in tension. The open-source image registration toolkit Elastix was employed to obtain full 3D displacement fields from the image data. We assessed the accuracy of the DVC results using the method of manufactured solution and showed that the approach followed here can detect deformation with a magnitude in the order of a fiber diameter which in the present case is 17 µm. The beneficial influence of regularization on DVC results is presented on the manufactured solution as well as on real in-situ tensile testing CT data of a BFRP sample. Results of the correlation showed that conventional µCT equipment in combination with DVC can be used to detect defects which could previously only be visualized using synchrotron facilities or destructive methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Faux Pas Recognition Test (FPRT) is one of the most commonly used tools to assess the theory of mind (ToM) and a valid and reliable screening of this social cognitive function in both clinical and research settings is essential. We aimed to evaluate the psychometric properties of the FPRT on a healthy Turkish sample and to develop a shorter form with adequate psychometric properties to provide an easier application for the tester by shortening the test's duration of administration. Four hundred sixteen healthy individuals completed the Turkish version of the FPRT. Addenbrooke's Cognitive Evaluation-Revised form (ACE-R) was given to the participants who were over 60 years of age in order to eliminate the adverse effects of a potential cognitive decline on FPRT performance. Effects of psychological symptoms on FPRT performance were controlled with Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) and Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI). Both the original and short versions of the test showed good psychometric properties: for the original version internal consistency reliability was 0.94 for faux-pas (FP) stories and 0.92 for control stories; for the short version it was 0.92 for FP stories and was 0.93 for control stories. For the original version of the FPRT; inter-rater reliability was 0.88 for FP stories and was 0.96 for control stories. Split-half reliability was 0.78 for FP stories and was 0.85 for control stories. Gender and age comparisons were carried out. Results revealed that women had significantly higher total scores than men in three measures of FPRT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Although exercise-induced feeling states may play a role in driving future behavior, their role in relation to older adults' participation in physical activity (PA) has seldom been considered. The objectives of this study were to describe changes in older adults' feeling states during exercise, and examine if levels of and changes in feeling states predicted their future participation in PA. Self-reported data on feeling states were collected from 82 older adults immediately before, during, and after a moderate-intensity exercise session, and on participation in PA 1 month later. Data were analyzed using latent growth modeling. Feelings of revitalization, positive engagement, and tranquility decreased during exercise, whereas feelings of physical exhaustion increased. Feelings of revitalization immediately before the exercise session predicted future participation in PA; changes in feeling states did not. This study does not provide empirical evidence that older adults' exercise-induced feeling states predict their future participation in PA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the development of additive manufacturing (AM), research interest is currently focused on lattice structures development due to their interesting mechanical properties. It implies the opportunity at the engineering level to be able to specify – beyond the shapes – mechanical properties distributed in the space to be manufactured. The article aims at introducing a design and optimization framework for AM, which highlights variable-density lattice structures. By processing both a topology optimization within a rough design space and a design of experiments driven parametric optimization, the development process of suitable and specific strength structures for AM becomes seamless and efficient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The synthesis and characterization of N-heterocyclic carbene (NHC) and cyclic (alkyl)(amino)carbene (cAAC) complexes of molybdenum(IV) and tungsten(IV) chloride is reported. Reaction of two equivalents of the NHCs IMes (1,3-bis(2,4,6-trimethylphenyl)imidazolin-2-ylidene), IDipp (1,3-bis(2,6-diisopropylphenyl)imidazolin-2-ylidene) and IiPrMe (1,3-diisopropyl-4,5-dimethylimidazolin-2-ylidene) with [MCl4(SEt)2] (M = Mo, W) in toluene afforded the bis-NHC complexes [MCl4(NHC)2] (M = Mo: NHC = IMes 1, NHC = IMes 2; M = W: NHC = IMes 3, NHC = IDipp 4, NHC = IiPrMe5). Mono-carbene complexes [MCl4(NHC)(SEt2)] 6–9 (M = Mo: NHC = IMes 6, NHC = IMes 7; M = W: NHC = IMes 8, NHC = IDipp 9) are available via ligand dismutation of 1–4 with [MCl4(SEt)2]. Complexes 1–9 were characterized by using elemental analysis, IR- and multinuclear NMR spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction for 1–8. The reactivity of the mono-NHC complexes 6–9 towards the cyclic (alkyl)(amino)carbene cAACMe as well as the two electron donor ligands trimethylphosphine, triphenylphosphine, pyridine (py) and N,N-dimethylpyridin-4-amine (DMAP) was studied, which led to the synthesis of the mixed substituted complexes [MCl4(NHC)(cAACMe)] (M = Mo: NHC = IMes 10, NHC = IDipp 11; M = W: NHC = IMes 12, NHC = IDipp 13), [MCl4(NHC)(PR3)] (M = W: NHC = IMes, R = Me 14, NHC = IMes, R = Ph 15, NHC = IDipp, R = Me 16, NHC = IDipp, R = Ph 17), [MCl4(NHC)(py)] (M = Mo: NHC = IMes 18, NHC = IDipp 20; M = W: NHC = IMes 22, NHC = IDipp 24) and [MCl4(NHC)(DMAP)] (M = Mo: NHC = IMes 19, NHC = IDipp 21; M = W: NHC = IMes 23, NHC = IDipp 25). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: There is limited evidence for emergency physicians and emergency trauma surgeons regarding the determinants of early and rapid assessment of older adult in-hospital mortality due to earthquakes. This study explored factors related to the early and rapid assessment of the mortality among older adult earthquake trauma patients (OAETPs) and created a screening model. METHODS: Data on 7,308 OAETPs from the West China Earthquake Patients Database were analyzed retrospectively. The 35 variables that can be obtained rapidly on arrival at the hospital were collected. Least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression analysis was performed. Then, the nomogram for assessing the mortality of OAETPs was constructed. RESULTS: We identified 10 independent mortality-related factors that contributed to the inhospital mortality of OAETPs. The 10 factors included age (odds ratio [OR]=1.061, 95% confidence interval [CI]:1.031–1.090), dementia (OR=5.146, 95%CI: 1.169–17.856), coronary heart disease (CHD; OR=23.441, 95%CI: 4.799–83.927), malignant tumor (OR=8.497, 95%CI: 3.583–17.967), deep vein thrombosis (DVT; OR=7.110, 95%CI: 1.369–27.168), chronic kidney disease(CKD; OR=11.783, 95%CI: 5.419–24.407), pulse rate (PR; OR=1.036, 95%CI: 1.022–1.048), mean artery pressure (MAP; OR=0.960, 95%CI: 0.945–0.975), Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS; OR=0.864, 95%CI: 0.760–0.972), and Triage Revised Trauma Score (T-RTS, OR=0.485, 95%CI: 0.351–0.696). CONCLUSION: The 10 mortality-related factors could be quickly obtained on hospital arrival and should be the focal point of future earthquake response strategies regarding hospitalized older adults with trauma. A nomogram was constructed based on the factors for screening OAETPs with a higher risk of in-hospital mortality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic tendon ruptures are common disorders in orthopedics. The conventional surgical methods used to treat them often require the support of implants. Due to the non-availability of suitable materials, 3D-printed polycaprolactone (PCL) scaffolds were designed from two different starting materials as suitable candidates for tendon-implant applications. For the characterization, mechanical testing was performed. To increase their biocompatibility, the PCL-scaffolds were plasma-treated and coated with fibronectin and collagen I. Cytocompatibility testing was performed using L929 mouse fibroblasts and human-bone-marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells. The mechanical testing showed that the design adaptions enhanced the mechanical stability. Cell attachment was increased in the plasma-treated specimens compared to the control specimens, although not significantly, in the viability tests. Coating with fibronectin significantly increased the cellular viability compared to the untreated controls. Collagen I treatment showed an increasing trend. The desired cell alignment and spread between the pores of the construct was most prominent on the collagen-I-coated specimens. In conclusion, 3D-printed scaffolds are possible candidates for the development of tendon implants. Enhanced cytocompatibility was achieved through surface modifications. Although adaptions in mechanical strength still require alterations in order to be applied to human-tendon ruptures, we are optimistic that a suitable implant can be designed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polycaprolactone (PCL) scaffold is a common biological material for tissue engineering, owing to its good biocompatibility, biodegradability and plasticity. However, it is not suitable for osteoblast adhesion and regeneration of bone tissue due to its non-biological activity, poor mechanical strength, slow degradation speed, smooth surface and strong hydrophobicity. To improve the mechanical properties and biocompatibility of PCL scaffold, the PCL/nHA scaffolds were prepared by melting and blending different proportions of nano-hydroxyapatite (nHA) with PCL by the near-field direct-writing melt electrospinning technology in this study. The morphology, porosity, mechanical properties and in vitro biocompatibility of the PCL/nHA scaffolds were studied. The results showed that when the proportion of nHA was less than or equal to 25%, PCL/nHA composite scaffolds were easily formed in which bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells proliferated successfully. When the proportion of nHA was 15%, the PCL/nHA composite scaffolds had excellent structural regularity, good fiber uniformity, outstanding mechanical stability and superior biocompatibility. The PCL/nHA composite scaffolds were ideal scaffold materials, which would broaden their applications for bone tissue engineering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An efficient pathway to a new family of fluorinated polyheteroaromatic D‐A molecules has been developed. The method is based on the Rh(III)‐catalyzed regioselective [4+2]‐annulation of N‐(pivaloyloxy)‐benzamides with 4‐ethynyl‐5,6‐difluoro‐7‐(p‐methoxyphenyl)‐2,1,3‐benzothiadiazole as a key step followed by the aromatization/Suzuki coupling sequence to furnish the target D‐A systems with modifiable acceptor block. The discovered difference in reactivity between ArB(OH)2 and ArBPin allows performing a divergent modification of BTD acceptor block by the manipulation of aryl boronic reagents in the ortho‐selective C−F activation of the fluorinated BTD moiety under Suzuki reaction conditions to furnish new D1‐π‐A‐D2 systems in good yields. Such step‐by‐step modification of the acceptor block has been achieved by Pd‐catalyzed C−F bond activation under isoquinoline ring assistance for the first time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of five new homoleptic, linear nickel d9‐complexes of the type [NiI(NHC)2]+ is reported. Starting from the literature known Ni(0) complexes [Ni(Mes2Im)2] 1, [Ni(Mes2ImH2)2] 2, [Ni(Dipp2Im)2] 3, [Ni(Dipp2ImH2)2] 4 and [Ni(cAACMe)2] 5 (Mes2Im=1,3‐bis(2,4,6‐trimethylphenyl)‐imidazolin‐2‐ylidene, Mes2ImH2=1,3‐bis(2,4,6‐trimethylphenyl)‐imidazolidin‐2‐ylidene, Dipp2Im=1,3‐bis(2,6‐diisopropylphenyl)‐imidazolin‐2‐ylidene, Dipp2ImH2=1,3‐bis(2,6‐diisopropylphenyl)‐imidazolidin‐2‐ylidene, cAACMe=1‐(2,6‐diisopropylphenyl)‐3,3,5,5‐tetramethylpyrrolidin‐2‐yliden), their oxidized Ni(I) analogues [NiI(Mes2Im)2][BPh4] 1+, [NiI(Mes2ImH2)2][BPh4] 2+, [NiI(Dipp2Im)2][BPh4] 3+, [NiI(Dipp2ImH2)2][BPh4] 4+ and [NiI(cAACMe)2][BPh4] 5+ were synthesized by one‐electron oxidation with ferrocenium tetraphenyl‐borate. The complexes 1+–5+ were fully characterized including X‐ray structure analysis. The complex cations reveal linear geometries in the solid state and NMR spectra with extremely broad, paramagnetically shifted resonances. DFT calculations predicted an orbitally degenerate ground state leading to large magnetic anisotropy, which was verified by EPR measurements in solution and on solid samples. The magnetic anisotropy of the complexes is highly dependent from the steric protection of the metal atom, which results in a noticeable decrease of the g‐tensor anisotropy for the N‐Mes substituted complexes 1+ and 2+ in solution due to the formation of T‐shaped THF adducts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lattice structures are known for their superior performance in weight reduction, stiffness, and increased manufacturability, but when materials need to be adaptive, multifunctional, and with tunable properties, functionally graded lattice structures (FGLS) play a crucial role in innovative solutions. Recent digital manufacturing technologies offer ideal conditions for creating lattice structures with high geometrical complexity and functional gradients. However, the design and development of these inherently complex structures often require the use of specialized methods and software tools. As researchers venture from diverse areas into the research of FGLS in search of novel applications, it is important to choose adequate design tools. Herein, an overview of methods and software for the design of FGLS is presented, identifying geometrical parameters of common lattice topologies and ways to manipulate them to create functional gradients. Fifty software applications or methods are listed, dedicated to the design of single material lattices produced by additive manufacturing processes. Typical applications of the reviewed software are identified, and FGLS design methods are compared. Generative Design seems more suited as an explorative process, Topology Optimization is an established efficiency‐focused design process, and Machine Learning is considered a promising data‐driven approach for the design of innovative FGLS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We use europium doped single crystalline NaYF4 nanorods for probing the electric and magnetic contributions to the local density of optical states (LDOS). Reciprocically, we determine intrinsic properties of the emitters (oscillator strength, quantum yield) by comparing their measured and simulated optical responses in front of a mirror. We first experimentally determine the specifications of the nanoprobe (orientation and oscillator strength of the electric and magnetic dipoles moments) and show significant orientation sensitivity of the branching ratios associated with electric and magnetic transitions. In a second part, we measure the modification of the LDOS in front of a gold mirror in a Drexhage’s experiment. We discuss the role of the electric and magnetic LDOS on the basis of numerical simulations, taking into account the orientation of the dipolar emitters. We demonstrate that they behave like degenerated dipoles sensitive to polarized partial LDOS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The numerical techniques required to prove the single‐photon emission from any type of quantum emitter (QE) after being coupled to any nanostructure are presented in this paper. The Purcell effect modifies the emission characteristics of QEs, such as color centers in nanodiamonds, for example, nitrogen‐vacancy (NV) centers, silicon vacancy (SiV) centers, and so forth, or semiconductor quantum dots. Our numerical approach is based on the unique QEs' experimental photophysics parameters and numerical analysis software, which are MATLAB and Quantum Toolbox in Python (QuTiP). Our results show a comparable g(2) (τ) behavior between our proposed numerical model and the other two experimental results for the QE before and after coupling to a plasmonic waveguide with subwavelength dimensions. Our proposed method is essential to prove the single‐photon emission of modeled single‐photon source (SPS) in an on‐chip polarization‐dependent quantum key distribution system (QKD). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explored the associations between the perceived walkability of neighborhood environment, walking time, and functional mobility by community-dwelling older adults in Hong Kong SAR, China. Seventy community-dwelling older adults (Mean age = 78.00 ± 7.40 years) participated in this study. Their perceived walkability of neighborhood environment was evaluated by the Chinese abbreviated version of Neighborhood Environment Walkability Survey (NEWS-A) and their walking time within a week was self-reported. The 10-Meter Walk Test and Tinetti Performance-Oriented Mobility Assessment (POMA) were used to assess the functional mobility of the participants, regarding their gait speed, balance, and gait performance, respectively. Results suggest that the perceived walkability of neighborhood environment (Aesthetics subscale) positively associated with the gait speed (rs =.35, p =.003), scores of the POMA-Balance (rs =.389, p =.001) and POMA-Gait (rs =.343, p =.004). This exploratory analysis augmented our contemporary understanding that older adults who could walk faster and with better balance and gait performance are associated with more positive perceived walkability of their neighborhood environment. It provides useful insight that could inform future high-impact investigations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In the context of the ageing of the French population, physical activity becomes a principal means for maintaining good health. International organisations are thus giving increasing importance to physical activity in programmes of disease-prevention. In parallel with these concerns, studies have shown the impact of sedentary activities (in particularly as a result of the seated position and screen time) on health. Objective: To show the links between physical activity, sedentarism and health indicators and to identify the socio-demographic variables by which they are influenced (particularly gender). Study design: This is a transversal epidemiological study conducted among the French population between 2014 and 2016 by Santé publique France, the national public health agency. Methods: The RPAQ (Recent Physical Activity Questionnaire) was used to measure the physical activity and sedentary lifestyle of individuals. The analyses focus on the behaviours among the population of older adults (55–74 years old, n = 1155). Results: A third of French older adults does not meet the WHO recommended physical activity levels, particularly so among women. The results of this survey point to significant links between health indicators (especially overweight and obesity) and the physical activity level and sedentarity of older adults. From the age of 60, energy expenditure linked to physical activity increases before decreasing from the age of 65. Older adults spend almost 6 hours per day in sedentary activities. The combinations between physical activity and sedentarism highlight four profiles of older adults. The most active profile is the one with the best health indicators. Conclusion: The links between health, sedentarity and physical activity are unequivocal: people who achieve the WHO recommendations for physical activity and spend less than 7 hours each day in sedentary activities are those who also have the best health indicators. These results vary with sociographic characteristics and reveal significant links with health indicators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, near-field direct-writing melt electrospinning technology was employed to fabricate a polycaprolactone/nano-hydroxyapatite (PCL/nHA) scaffold for future applications in tissue engineering. The influences of different fabrication parameters on the structural characteristics, mechanical properties, and thermal stability of the scaffolds were discussed. It was found that the moving speed of the receiving plate had the most significant effect on the scaffold performance, followed by the receiving distance and spinning voltage. The results also showed that these process parameters affected the fiber diameter, corresponding coefficient of variation, porosity of the composite scaffolds, and mechanical properties of the samples, including the tensile strength and fiber peeling strength. Moreover, the process parameters could influence the thermal degradation performance and melting process. Although the mass loss of the composite scaffolds was not obvious after degradation, the mechanical performance degraded severely. It was concluded that the more appropriate process parameters for preparing PCL/nHA scaffolds were a spinning voltage of −4 kV, receiving distance of 4 mm, moving speed of receiving plate of 5 mm/s, and melt temperature of 130 °C. This study proved that near-field direct-writing melt electrospinning technology is a good method to obtain PCL/nHA composite scaffolds with an excellent mechanical properties and desired morphology for future tissue engineering applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The low toxicity and high adsorption capacities of clay minerals make them attractive for controlled delivery applications. However, the number of controlled-release studies in the literature using clay minerals is still scarce. In this work, three different clays from the smectite group (Kunipia F, montmorillonite; Sumecton SA, saponite; and Sumecton SWN, hectorite) were successfully loaded with rhodamine B dye and functionalized with oleic acid as a gatekeeper to produce organonanoclays for active and controlled payload-release. Moreover, hematin and cyanocobalamin have also been encapsulated in hectorite gated clay. These organonanoclays were able to confine the entrapped cargos in an aqueous environment, and effectively release them in the presence of surfactants (as bile salts). A controlled delivery of 49 ± 6 μg hematin/mg solid and 32.7 ± 1.5 μg cyanocobalamin/mg solid was reached. The cargo release profiles of all of the organonanoclays were adjusted to three different release-kinetic models, demonstrating the Korsmeyer–Peppas model with release dependence on (i) the organic–inorganic hybrid system, and (ii) the nature of loaded molecules and their interaction with the support. Furthermore, in vitro cell viability assays were carried out with Caco-2 cells, demonstrating that the organonanoclays are well tolerated by cells at particle concentrations of ca. 50 μg/mL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the emerging technologies of the recent times harboring nanotechnology to fabricate nanofibers for various biomedical and environmental applications are electrospinning (nanofiber technology). Their relative ease in use, simplicity, functionality and diversity has surpassed the pitfalls encountered with the conventional method of generating fibers. This review aims to provide an overview of electrospinning, principle, methods, feed materials, and applications toward tissue engineering. To begin with, evolution of electrospinning and its typical apparatus have been briefed. Simultaneously, discussion on the production of nanofibers with diversified feed materials such as polymers, small molecules, colloids, and nanoparticles and its transformation into a powerful technology has been dealt with. Further, highlights on the application of nanofibers in tissue engineering and the commercialized products developed using nanofiber technology have been summed up. With this rapidly emerging technology, there would be a great demand pertaining to scalability and environmental challenge toward tissue engineering applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

National governments are increasingly exploring how the routine collection of subjective well-being data can be a valuable tool for improving public policy. In particular, health satisfaction is an indicator of subjective well-being which can be helpful in evaluating and improving of health policy. This study aimed to examine patterns and determinants of health satisfaction across provinces, considering how its measurement can help governments to deliver more effective health policy. We used secondary data using Happiness Level Assessment Survey conducted by the Central Statistics Agency of Indonesia involved respondents aged 18 to 98 with response rate in 2014 was 94.2%, while in 2017 was 96.4%. To this end, an analysis was performed on 45,881 responses to the 2014 and 2017 Happiness Level Assessment Survey performed by the Central Agency of Statistics. The results showed that there was a significant difference in health satisfaction in 2017 compared with 2014, with health satisfaction in 2017 is higher than that in 2014. Overall, 12 out of 34 provinces experienced a substantial rise in health satisfaction. Subsequently, multi-level modeling was used to explore the extent to which health satisfaction was associated with different individual-level and provincial-level explanatory variables. Here, the analyses showed that health satisfaction among Indonesians is associated with whether individuals live in urban or rural areas, demographic factors, health-related factors, social capital, and leisure time. Overall, the study helps to illuminate the status of health satisfaction across Indonesia, leading to numerous suggestions for improving health policy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Musculoskeletal disorders are a significant burden on the global economy and public health. Hydrogels have significant potential for enhancing the repair of damaged and injured musculoskeletal tissues as cell or drug delivery systems. Hydrogels have unique physicochemical properties which make them promising platforms for controlling cell functions. Gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA) hydrogel in particular has been extensively investigated as a promising biomaterial due to its tuneable and beneficial properties and has been widely used in different biomedical applications. In this review, a detailed overview of GelMA synthesis, hydrogel design and applications in regenerative medicine is provided. After summarising recent progress in hydrogels more broadly, we highlight recent advances of GelMA hydrogels in the emerging fields of musculoskeletal drug delivery, involving therapeutic drugs (e.g., growth factors, antimicrobial molecules, immunomodulatory drugs and cells), delivery approaches (e.g., single-, dual-release system), and material design (e.g., addition of organic or inorganic materials, 3D printing). The review concludes with future perspectives and associated challenges for developing local drug delivery for musculoskeletal applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Physical activity is one of the most efficacious pathways to promoting mental and physical health, preventing disease, and, most important during the COVID-19 pandemic, bolstering a stronger immune system. Efforts to "flatten the curve" have resulted in the temporary closure of exercise facilities and gyms, suspension of sport activities, and advisories to avoid public recreational spaces. All of these changes have made traditional opportunities to be physically active difficult to access. These changes have also exacerbated existing disparities in access to social and environmental supports for physical activity, potentially contributing to a widening gap in physical activity participation among those at greatest risk for COVID-19. Physical activity can play a special role in reducing the inequitable consequences of COVID-19; however, expansion and better targeting of evidence-informed interventions are needed that address the unique barriers present in communities that have been economically and socially marginalized to achieve health equity in COVID-19 outcomes. This review highlights effective and feasible strategies that provide more equitable access to physical activity programs and spaces across the United States. With a renewed investment in physical activity, this behavior can play a crucial role in improving population health and reducing disparities during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: It is important to sustain mobility in order to maintain functionality and physical independence in the elderly. The aim was to evaluate the perception of exercise in the elderly in terms of the benefits of and barriers to exercise and determine the related factors. Materials and Method: 138 elderly people aged 65 and over were included in the study. Demographics, ambulation status and duration, history of falls, spontaneous/low-energy fractures, exercise/walking activities were recorded. Depression states, benefits and barriers of exercise, risk of falling, balance and Daily activities were evaluated. Results: The average age of the patients was 71.59±6.21 years and 52.2% were female. Only a quarter (24.6%) reported regular exercise, 50.7% had history of falling, and 18.8% had a fracture history. Only 24.6% of the patients walked for exercise purposes and 44.2% did exercise. The perception of exercise benefit was significantly higher in those with a history of falling (p=0.012) and significantly lower in those who walked for exercise purposes and did exercise (p<0.001 and p<0.001). Perception of exercise benefit was positively correlated with depression, negatively correlated with Lawton-Brody, and perception of obstacle was negatively correlated with balance (r=0.333, r=-0.375, r=-0.383, respectively). Depression level, perceived benefit of exercise, risk of falling were higher in women whereas balance disorder was higher in men (p<0.001, p=0.049, p=0.004, respectively). Conclusion: In the elderly, exercise is associated with the perception of benefit/obstacle, depression, risk of falling/fracture, balance and functional dependence. Active life should be supported by strengthening the perception of benefit and reducing the perception of obstacles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Older adults are the least active population in the U.S. Low-income communities have fewer physical activity (PA) resources, contributing to less PA and increased chronic disease risk. This study assessed the effect of the multilevel, peer-led, Peer Empowerment Program 4 Physical Activity (PEP4PA) on moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA) and health outcomes, over 2 years of follow up. Methods: In a cluster-randomized controlled trial, 12 senior or community centers serving low-income older adults were assigned to a PA intervention (n = 6) or usual programming (n = 6) condition. PEP4PA included self-monitoring, health coaching, group walks, social support, and community advocacy to improve walking conditions. The primary outcome was daily minutes of MVPA (7-day accelerometer). Secondary outcomes included Perceived Quality of Life (PQoL), 6-Minute Walk Test (6-MWT), blood pressure (BP), and depressive symptoms at baseline, 6, 12, 18 and 24 months. Mixed effects regression models estimated the effects on outcomes between groups over time and included random effects for repeated measures and center clustering. Effect modification by sex and income status was assessed. We calculated the incremental cost per daily minute of MVPA gained in the intervention group relative to the control group to assess cost effectiveness. Results: We enrolled 476 older adults (50 + years). Participants were on average 71 years old, 76% female, 60% low income, and 38% identified as racial or ethnic minorities. Compared to the control group, intervention participants sustained roughly a 10 min/day increase in MVPA from baseline at all time points and increased mean PQoL scores from unsatisfied at baseline to satisfied at 12, 18 and 24 months. Males and higher-income groups had greater improvements in MVPA. No significant effects were observed for 6-MWT or depressive symptoms, and BP results were mixed. The incremental cost per minute MVPA gained per person was $0.25, $0.09, $0.06, and $0.05 at 6, 12, 18 and 24 months, respectively. Conclusions: PEP4PA achieved increases in MVPA and PQoL in low-income older adults, over 2 years of follow up. The peer-led, community-based intervention provides a sustainable and cost-effective model to improve health behaviors in underserved, aging populations. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT02405325) March 20, 2015. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Much of current artificial intelligence (AI) and the drive toward artificial general intelligence (AGI) focuses on developing machines for functional tasks that humans accomplish. These may be narrowly specified tasks as in AI, or more general tasks as in AGI – but typically these tasks do not target higher-level human cognitive abilities, such as consciousness or morality; these are left to the realm of so-called "strong AI" or "artificial consciousness." In this paper, we focus on how a machine can augment humans rather than do what they do, and we extend this beyond AGI-style tasks to augmenting peculiarly personal human capacities, such as wellbeing and morality. We base this proposal on associating such capacities with the "self," which we define as the "environment-agent nexus"; namely, a fine-tuned interaction of brain with environment in all its relevant variables. We consider richly adaptive architectures that have the potential to implement this interaction by taking lessons from the brain. In particular, we suggest conjoining the free energy principle (FEP) with the dynamic temporo-spatial (TSD) view of neuro-mental processes. Our proposed integration of FEP and TSD – in the implementation of artificial agents – offers a novel, expressive, and explainable way for artificial agents to adapt to different environmental contexts. The targeted applications are broad: from adaptive intelligence augmenting agents (IA's) that assist psychiatric self-regulation to environmental disaster prediction and personal assistants. This reflects the central role of the mind and moral decision-making in most of what we do as humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vimentin, a type III intermediate filament protein, is found in most cells along with microfilaments and microtubules. It has been shown that the head domain folds back to associate with the rod domain and this association is essential for filament assembly. The N-terminally tagged vimentin has been widely used to label the cytoskeleton in live cell imaging. Although there is previous evidence that EGFP tagged vimentin fails to form filaments but is able to integrate into a pre-existing network, no study has systematically investigated or established a molecular basis for this observation. To determine whether a tag would affect de novo filament assembly, we used vimentin fused at the N-terminus with two different sized tags, AcGFP (239 residues, 27 kDa) and 3 × FLAG (22 residues; 2.4 kDa) to assemble into filaments in two vimentin-deficient epithelial cells, MCF-7 and A431. We showed that regardless of tag size, N-terminally tagged vimentin aggregated into globules with a significant proportion co-aligning with β-catenin at cell–cell junctions. However, the tagged vimentin aggregates could form filaments upon adding untagged vimentin at a ratio of 1:1 or when introduced into cells containing pre-existing filaments. The resultant filament network containing a mixture of tagged and untagged vimentin was less stable compared to that formed by only untagged vimentin. The data suggest that placing a tag at the N-terminus may create steric hinderance in case of a large tag (AcGFP) or electrostatic repulsion in case of highly charged tag (3 × FLAG) perhaps inducing a conformational change, which deleteriously affects the association between head and rod domains. Taken together our results shows that a free N-terminus is essential for filament assembly as N-terminally tagged vimentin is not only incapable of forming filaments, but it also destabilises when integrated into a pre-existing network. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The family of room temperature atomic scale magnetometers is currently limited to nitrogen-vacancy centers in diamond. However, nitrogen-vacancy centers are insensitive to strong off-axis magnetic fields. In this work, we show that the well-known TR12 radiative defect in diamond, exhibits strong optically detected magnetic resonance (ODMR) signal under optical saturation. We also demonstrate that the spin system responsible for the magnetic resonance is an excited triplet state that can be coherently controlled at room temperature on a single defect level. The high optically detected magnetic resonance contrast, which is maintained even for strong off-axis magnetic fields, suggests that TR12 centers can be used for vector magnetometry even at high field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to examine the effect of built environment (BE) elements on older people's (OP) leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) and leisure-time walking (LTW) level in the city of Ningbo. Older participants numbering 312 were randomly recruited using cross-sectional survey in 2019. International Physical Activity Questionnaire-short version (IPAQ-S) and Neighborhood Environment Walkability Scale—abbreviated (NEWS-A)—were used to gather LTPA data and the perceive scores of BE, respectively. Liner regression analysis was performed to investigate the association relationship between the perceived scores of BE and OP's LTW and LTPA. The study's results showed that, when not considering different sex groups, OP's LTW was significantly related with the perceived scores of access to services (AE, p = 0.045), walking/cycling facilities (W/CF, p = 0.007), aesthetics, and land use mix diversity (LUMD, p = 0.04). OP's LTPA was significantly related with AE (p = 0.04) and aesthetics (p < 0.001). The association relationships of BE with LTW and LTPA varied in different sex groups. Three elements (AE, W/CF, and LUMD) and one element (pedestrian/traffic safety and P/TS) of BE were found be related with older male and older female's LTW, respectively. One element (aesthetics) and two elements (aesthetics, LUMD) of BE were found be related with older male and older female's LTPA, respectively. The results indicated that the effects of BE on OP's LTW and the effects of BE on OP's LTPA were different. The effect also varied in different sex groups. More studies are needed to confirm the effect of BE on OP's LTW and LTPA in different sex groups to globally enrich the scientific data base. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Atomic force microscopy (AFM) nanoxerography was successfully used to direct the assembly of colloidal nanodiamonds (NDs) containing nitrogen-vacancy (NV) centres on electrostatically patterned surfaces. This study reveals that the number of deposited NDs can be controlled by tuning the surface potentials of positively charged dots on a negatively charged background written by AFM in a thin PMMA electret film, yielding assemblies down to a unique single-photon emitter with very good selectivity. The mechanisms of the ND directed assembly are attested by numerical simulations. This robust deterministic nano-positioning of quantum emitters thus offers great opportunities for ultimate applications in nanophotonics for quantum technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Systemic environmental disadvantage relates to a host of health and functional outcomes. Specific structural factors have seldom been linked to neural structure, however, clouding understanding of putative mechanisms. Examining relations during childhood/preadolescence, a dynamic period of neurodevelopment, could aid bridge this gap. A total of 10,213 youth were recruited from the Adolescent Brain and Cognitive Development study. Self‐report and objective measures (Census and Federal bureau of investigation metrics extracted using geocoding) of environmental exposures were used, including stimulation indexing lack of safety and high attentional demands, discrepancy indexing social exclusion/lack of belonging, and deprivation indexing lack of environmental enrichment. Environmental measures were related to cortical thickness, surface area, and subcortical volume regions, controlling for other environmental exposures and accounting for other brain regions. Self‐report (|β| =.04–.09) and objective (|β| =.02–.06) environmental domains related to area/thickness in overlapping (e.g., insula, caudal anterior cingulate), and unique regions (e.g., for discrepancy, rostral anterior and isthmus cingulate, implicated in socioemotional functions; for stimulation, precuneus, critical for cue reactivity and integration of environmental cues; and for deprivation, superior frontal, integral to executive functioning). For stimulation and discrepancy exposures, self‐report and objective measures showed similarities in correlate regions, while deprivation exposures evidenced distinct correlates for self‐report and objective measures. Results represent a necessary step toward broader work aimed at establishing mechanisms and correlates of structural disadvantage, highlighting the relevance of going beyond aggregate models by considering types of environmental factors, and the need to incorporate both subjective and objective measurements in these efforts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Further information is needed on how community exercise facilities can be effectively utilised to engage people living with chronic health conditions in exercise. The aim of this study was to identify the exercise barriers, facilitators and needs of patients with chronic disease in the community; and to provide recommendations to support the transition from hospital‐based to community‐based exercise. Using a qualitative approach, four focus groups were conducted with patients who had completed hospital‐based exercise programmes (n = 11) and fitness instructors (n = 10). Data were audio recorded, member checked and transcribed verbatim for thematic analysis using NVivo. The side effects of chronic health conditions, the gym environment and a need for support when joining/attending a gym were perceived as barriers to exercising in the community. In contrast, the presence of supportive staff was perceived by patients as a facilitator to engaging in exercise in the community. A total of three themes emerged from participants views on exercise needs in the community; the referral and induction process in community gyms, fitness instructor training and experience and creating a supportive exercise environment. Themes informed eight key recommendations to support patients to exercise in the community, including supportive gym referral and induction processes for patients with chronic conditions, increased professional training for fitness instructors in the area of chronic disease management and exercise prescription, and exercise support at regular intervals for those with chronic conditions attending community gyms. This study found that there is potential for community gyms to play a key role in promoting health among people with chronic conditions. However, more can be done to foster an inclusive atmosphere in this space. Patients living with chronic conditions need information and advice on exercising in their communities. Community gyms require further support to ensure that facilities meet the exercise needs of people with chronic conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The activation and functionalization of C−F bonds in various fluoroorganics were found to be a daunting task owing to their innate inertness. Harnessing the C−F bonds will alleviate the toxicity and environmental issues posed by them, and provide new pathways to access value‐added products. Although several strategies have been employed such as metal complexes, Brønsted acids, Lewis acids, and photocatalyst to activate the C−F bonds, however, the use of NHC or Metal‐NHC is relatively scarce. NHCs based catalytic C−F activation stands out owing to its easy accessibility, stability, and facile reactivity. Metal‐NHCs were exploited in hydrodefluorination, C−C, and C−B coupling reactions. Additionally, R−M(F)(NHC), an oxidative‐addition intermediate that was conveniently isolated allows to decode catalytic C−F functionalization pathways. This minireview provides the prominence of NHC and metal‐NHC in the area of catalytic C−F bond functionalization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The endothelium plays an important role in the transcytosis of lipoproteins. According to one of the theories, endothelial injury is a triggering factor for the development of atherosclerosis, and intracellular structures, including components of the endotheliocyte cytoskeleton (microtubules, actin, and intermediate filaments), are involved in its development. In contrast to the proteins of tubulin-based microtubules and actin microfilaments, intermediate filaments are comprised of various tissue-specific protein members. Vimentin, the main protein of endothelial intermediate filaments, is one of the most well-studied of these and belongs to type-III intermediate filaments, commonly found in cells of mesenchymal origin. Vimentin filaments are linked mechanically or by signaling molecules to microfilaments and microtubules by which coordinated cell polarisation and migration are carried out, as well as control over several endotheliocyte functions. Moreover, the soluble vimentin acts as an indicator of the state of the cardiovascular system, and the involvement of vimentin in the development and course of atherosclerosis has been demonstrated. Here we discuss current concepts of the participation of vimentin filaments in the vital activity and functioning of endothelial cells, as well as the role of vimentin in the development of inflammatory processes and atherosclerosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Older adult women are at risk for negative health outcomes that engaging in sustained physical activity can help prevent. However, promoting long-term maintenance of physical activity in this population has proven to be a challenge. Increasing autonomous motivations (ie, intrinsic, integrated, and identified regulations) for physical activity may facilitate enduring behavior change. Digitally delivered games for health that take a celebratory technology approach, that is, using technology to create new ways to experience valued behaviors and express valued beliefs, may be a useful way to target autonomous motivations for physical activity. Formative research with the target population is needed to design compelling intervention content. Objective: The objective of this study is to investigate older adult women’s reactions to and thoughts about a photography-based, social media walking game targeting autonomous motivations for physical activity. Methods: During an individual semistructured interview, a moderator solicited feedback from 20 older adult women (age range 65-74 years) as part of formative research to develop a social media game featuring weekly walking challenges. The challenges were designed to target autonomous motivations for physical activity. Interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Two reviewers conducted thematic content analysis on interview transcripts. Results: We identified 3 overarching themes in qualitative data analysis. These reflected the playful experiences, value, and acceptability associated with the intervention challenges. Generally, participants understood what the challenges were asking them to do, proffered appropriate example responses, and indicated that the challenges would be enjoyable. Participants reported that the intervention content afforded many and varied playful experiences (eg, competition, discovery, exploration, expression, fellowship, humor, nurture, sensation). Further, participants indicated that the intervention increased their motivation for physical activity, occasioned meaningful shifts in perspective, increased their knowledge of various topics of interest, provided an opportunity to create valued connection with others, and provided health-related benefits. Participants suggested the intervention emphasize local history, nature, and cultural events. Conclusions: The photography-based, social media walking game with relatively simple game mechanics was well received and judged to be apt to bring about a wide variety of emotive experiences. A clear, geographically specific identity emerged as a key driver of interest for intervention content. Taking a celebratory technology approach holds promise for targeting autonomous motivations for physical activity in older adult women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Résumé: L'activité physique et sa réalisation chez le sujet âgé demeurent une problématique importante. De nombreuses études ont permis de montrer des bénéfices physiques et psychiques sur la qualité de vie et sur la mortalité. Le maintien d'une activité physique régulière est déterminant pour conserver les capacités fonctionnelles nécessaires aux activités de la vie quotidienne et préserver la qualité de vie des sujets âgés. Physical activity and its performance in the elderly remain a major problem. Numerous studies have shown physical and psychological benefits on quality of life and mortality. Maintaining regular physical activity is a key to maintain the functional abilities necessary for activities of daily living and preserve the quality of life of the elderly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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