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As the number of elderly persons in our country increases, more attention is being given to geriatric healthcare needs and successful ageing is becoming an important topic in medical literature. Concept of successful ageing is in first line on a preventive approach of care for older people. Promotion of regular physical activity is one of the main non-pharmaceutical measures proposed to older subjects as low rate of physical activity is frequently noticed in this age group. Moderate but regular physical activity is associated with a reduction in total mortality among older people, a positive effect on primary prevention of coronary heart disease and a significant benefit on the lipid profile. Improving body composition with a reduction in fat mass, reducing blood pressure and prevention of stroke, as well as type 2 diabetes, are also well established. Prevention of some cancers (especially that of breast and colon), increasing bone density and prevention of falls are also reported. Moreover, some longitudinal studies suggest that physical activity is linked to a reduced risk of developing dementia and Alzheimer’s disease in particular. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Range verification of particle beams in real time is considered a key for tapping the full potential of radio-oncological particle therapies. The novel technique of prompt gamma-ray timing (PGT), recently proposed and explored in first proof-of-principle experiments, promises range assessment at reasonable expense but challenges detectors, electronics, and data acquisition. Energy-selected time distributions have to be measured at very high throughput rates to obtain the statistics necessary for range verification with single pencil beam spots. Clinically applicable systems should provide a time resolution of about 200 ps, to be obtained with large (about 2” diameter) scintillators, detector loads in the few-Mcps range, and data acquisition rates around 1 Mcps, if possible with compact and inexpensive systems. Such requirements can be met best with CeBr3 scintillators read out with conventional photomultiplier tubes, coupled to commercial but customized electronics featuring high-resolution pulse digitization and fast digital signal processing. The paper deduces design parameters from the constraints given by typical treatment conditions, and presents first results obtained with prototype detectors and electronics developed in accordance with the derived specifications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Copyright of Lettre de Medecine Physique et de Readaptation is the property of Springer Nature and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background: Ageing is known to be associated with a decrease in peak oxygen consumption (VO2peak) and maximal tolerated power (MTP). Regular physical exercise is the most appropriate to improve aerobic capacity, but its effect still remained discussed in old people. Design: The aim of this study was to determine whether a short interval training session would be associated with improvements in exercise efficiency in aged subjects in both genders. Methods: In all, 19 women and 16 men (65.4 ± 4.9 years) performed a cycle incremental exercise test before and after a 9-week period of aerobic interval training (twice a week, 30 min session where 6 × 4-min at the first ventilatory threshold alternated with 1-min at the second ventilatory threshold) with cycle ergometer. Minute ventilation (MV), O2 uptake (VO2) and CO2 output (VCO2) were measured breath-by-breath and by an open-circuit metabolic cart. Results: Before training, maximal values of MV (MMV), VO2peak, heart rate, systolic blood pressure, MTP, blood lactate at MTP recovery and the power at the first (pVT1) and second ventilatory thresholds (pVT2) were higher in men compared with women. Nine weeks of interval training induced a significant increase in MMV, VO2peak, MTP, pVT1 and pVT2 and decrease in systolic blood pressure in the same way in men than in women, without any significant effect on their maximal heart rate values. Conclusions: These findings suggest that the age-related declines in aerobic index are attenuated by a short exercise interval training sessions in women and men. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While masters sport aligns with the holistic concept of active aging, related research has focused predominantly on the physical domain, and less is known about the psychological, cognitive, and social benefits of older adults' participation. This study examined, in combination, the perceived psychological, social, cognitive, and physical benefits of training and competing as a masters athlete, while considering age and gender differences. Forty masters athletes residing in Canada were interviewed (21 men and 19 women; 15 who were 50–64 years and 25 who were 65–79 years), representing 15 different sports. Interviews were coded both deductively and inductively, revealing several subthemes of benefits for the broader perceived psychological, social, cognitive, and physical benefits, with few but notable differences between women and men, and those younger than 65 years and those 65+ years. Our findings provide new insights into the positive experiences of active aging associated with high levels of physical activity among older adults, such as greater self-confidence, especially for women, comradery, and feeling mentally sharper, especially for the older age group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cardiovascular diseases have been the leading cause of global mortality and disability. In addition to traditional drug and surgical treatment, more and more studies investigate tissue engineering therapeutic strategies in cardiovascular medicine. Collagen interweaves in the form of trimeric chains to form the physiological network framework of the extracellular matrix of cardiac and vascular cells, possessing excellent biological properties (such as low immunogenicity and good biocompatibility) and adjustable mechanical properties, which renders it a vital tissue engineering biomaterial for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases. In recent years, promising advances have been made in the application of collagen materials in blood vessel prostheses, injectable cardiac hydrogels, cardiac patches, and hemostatic materials, although their clinical translation still faces some obstacles. Thus, we reviewed these findings and systematically summarizes the application progress as well as problems of clinical translation of collagen biomaterials in the cardiovascular field. The present review contributes to a comprehensive understanding of the application of collagen biomaterials in cardiovascular medicine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Additive Manufacturing (AM) has revolutionized the production industry by offering design freedom with shorter lead times and reduced material wastage. However, the damage tolerance (DT) of AM parts is a significant concern due to their microstructural and geometric complexities, which affect their mechanical performance. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the manufacturing parameters affecting the components produced by AM specifically selective laser melting (SLM). Detailed discussions are presented on the effects of manufacturing attributes on the microstructure, defects, and mechanical characteristics of AM parts. Depending on these aspects, basic concepts are studied and critically explained specifically for AM materials. The basic criterion for damage‐tolerant component design, the criterion for fatigue and fracture properties, and the effect of the defects on fatigue life are critically presented. In addition, the effect of different types of gradation on the crack growth behavior of samples processed by SLM is also investigated in depth. There is currently a lack of a specific review study in the literature that establishes a connection between process attributes and metallographic properties, and their impact on the damage behavior of additively manufactured parts. This gap in research highlights the need for a comprehensive review to bridge this knowledge deficit and provide valuable insights for understanding the relationships between manufacturing processes, material characteristics, and the structural integrity of additively manufactured components. This review concludes by addressing the challenges and opportunities in designing and qualifying AM parts for damage tolerance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Chinese Journal of Tissue Engineering Research / Zhongguo Zuzhi Gongcheng Yanjiu is the property of Chinese Journal of Tissue Engineering Research and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a prevalent neurodegenerative disease in which treatment often includes an exercise regimen. Exercise is neuroprotective in animal models of PD, and, more recently, human clinical studies have verified exercise's disease-modifying effect. Aerobic exercise and resistance training improve many of PD's motor and non-motor symptoms, while neuromotor therapy and stretching/flexibility exercises positively contribute to the quality of life in people with PD. Therefore, understanding the role of exercise in managing this complex disorder is crucial. Exerkines are bioactive substances that are synthesized and released during exercise and have been implicated in several positive health outcomes, including neuroprotection. Exerkines protect neuronal cells in vitro and rodent PD models in vivo. Aerobic exercise and resistance training both increase exerkine levels in the blood, suggesting a role for exerkines in the neuroprotective theory. Many exerkines demonstrate the potential for protecting the brain against pathological missteps caused by PD. Every person (people) with Parkinson's (PwP) needs a comprehensive exercise plan tailored to their unique needs and abilities. Here, we provide an exercise template to help PwP understand the importance of exercise for treating PD, describe barriers confronting many PwP in their attempt to exercise, provide suggestions for overcoming these barriers, and explore the role of exerkines in managing PD. In conclusion, exercise and exerkines together create a powerful neuroprotective system that should contribute to slowing the chronic progression of PD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Les Cahiers de l'Année Gérontologique is the property of Lavoisier and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Encapsulating antiepileptic drugs (AEDs), including ethosuximide (Etho), into nanoparticles shows promise in treating epilepsy. Nanomedicine may be the most significant contributor to addressing this issue. It presents several advantages compared to traditional drug delivery methods and is currently a prominent area of focus in cancer research. Incorporating Etho into bismuth ferrite (BFO) nanoparticles within diverse controlled drug delivery systems is explored to enhance drug efficacy. This approach is primarily desired to aid in targeted drug delivery to the brain's deepest regions while limiting transplacental permeability, reducing fetal exposure, and mitigating associated adverse effects. In this investigation, we explored Etho, an antiepileptic drug commonly employed for treating absence seizures, as the active ingredient in BFO nanoparticles at varying concentrations (10 and 15 mg). Characterization of the drug-containing BFO nanoparticles involved scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and elemental analysis. The thermal properties of the drug-containing BFO nanoparticles were evaluated via differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) analysis. Cytotoxicity evaluations using the MTT assay were conducted on all nanoparticles, and human neuroblastoma cell line cultures (SH-SY5Y) were treated with each particle over multiple time intervals. Cell viability remained at 135% after 7 days when exposed to 15 mg of Etho in BFO nanoparticles. Additionally, in vitro drug release kinetics for Etho revealed sustained release lasting up to 5 hours with a drug concentration of 15 mg. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hypertension is a significant chronic disease globally, and lifestyle modifications are crucial for the prevention of this disease. We conducted a longitudinal analysis of the associations between lifestyle factors and the incidence of hypertension, stratified by sociodemographic characteristics. Methods: We analyzed 113,022 adults (65,315 men), aged 20 years or older from the Korean National Health Insurance Service-National Sample Cohort 2.0 who participated in health screening between 2002 and 2003. Lifestyle factors (smoking, drinking, physical activity) were assessed at baseline using self reports, and incident hypertension was defined based on physician diagnoses. Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to assess associations. Results: During an 11.6-year follow-up, 26,812 new cases of hypertension were identified. The risk of hypertension was high among men and women who smoked over 20 cigarettes daily (men: hazard ratio [HR]: 1.15; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.08–1.21; women: HR: 1.62; 95% CI 1.17–2.25) and those who drank over 1.5 bottles of alcohol daily (men, HR: 1.18; 95% CI, 1.12–1.24; women, HR: 1.23; 95% CI 1.02–1.47). These associations tended to be high in high-income men (HR: 1.09; 95% CI, 1.04–1.14), low-income women (HR: 1.19; 95% CI, 1.05–1.35) and non-obese women (HR: 1.13; 95% CI, 1.01–1.27) who currently smoked. Physical activity was inversely associated with incident hypertension in men (HR: 0.96; 95% CI, 0.93–0.99). Conclusions: Unhealthy lifestyle factors, such as heavy smoking and drinking, was associated with an increased risk of hypertension, with variations by income, BMI, and sex. These findings underscore the importance of tailored, population-specific prevention strategies to address hypertension disparities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Training helps to maintain and improve sufficient muscle function, body control, and body coordination. These are important to reduce the risk of fracture incidents caused by falls, especially for the elderly or people recovering from injury. Virtual reality training can offer a cost-effective and individualized training experience. We present an application for the HoloLens 2 to enable musculoskeletal training for elderly and impaired persons to allow for autonomous training and automatic progress evaluation. We designed a virtual downhill skiing scenario that is controlled by body movement to stimulate balance and body control. By adapting the parameters of the ski slope, we can tailor the intensity of the training to individual users. In this work, we evaluate whether the movement data of the HoloLens 2 alone is sufficient to control and predict body movement and joint angles during musculoskeletal training.We record the movements of 10 healthy volunteers with external tracking cameras and track a set of body and joint angles of the participant during training. We estimate correlation coefficients and systematically analyze whether whole body movement can be derived from the movement data of the HoloLens 2. No participant reports movement sickness effects and all were able to quickly interact and control their movement during skiing. Our results show a high correlation between HoloLens 2 movement data and the external tracking of the upper body movement and joint angles of the lower limbs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We aimed to assess work-related factors and their association with long-term care workers' self-efficacy for encouraging and engaging residents in physical activity. Baseline data from a worksite wellness study with 98 workers were used. We used a linear regression model, to assess if job satisfaction, work ability, and social support for staff health behaviors from coworkers and supervisors were associated with staffs' self-efficacy for Function-Focused Care (FFC) and Staffs' Outcome Expectations for FFC. Staffs' social support for healthy behaviors from coworkers was the only factor that was significantly associated with Staffs' Outcome Expectations for FFC and staffs' self-efficacy-FFC, respectively explaining 19% and 14% of the variance. Our findings show that staffs' social support from coworkers is associated with higher self-efficacy for encouraging and engaging residents in physical activity suggests future worksite wellness studies with long-term care workers may wish to consider assessing program impacts on residents' physical activity levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Currently, an increasing number of Chinese urban citizens are participating in daily physical exercise. Existing research has shown that physical exercise can increase life satisfaction. However, some studies also suggest that the relationship between the two is unstable. The purposes of this study are to examine physical exercise and to test its correlation with life satisfaction of urban residents in China. Data are obtained from the 2018 China Family Panel Studies, and we focus on urban residents. Our overall sample size is 7423 people, including 3641 females (49.05%) and 3782 males (50.95%), with an average age of 49.55 years old. Because the dependent variables are continuous variables, the multiple linear regression model is used for data analysis. We find that the life satisfaction of Chinese urban residents is on the high side. Our core discovery is that there is a significant positive relationship between the frequency and duration of physical exercise and life satisfaction. Our further discovery is that the frequency of physical exercise affects life satisfaction by influencing popularity and positive emotions. Similarly, the duration of physical exercise affects life satisfaction by influencing popularity and positive emotions. Whether it is the frequency or the duration of physical exercise, it can reflect the residents' attention to physical exercise. Physical exercise habits not only promote physical health by strengthening physical fitness but also promote mental health by alleviating depression and promote social communication by increasing social activities in the Chinese context. All of these can improve people's life satisfaction. Our research suggests that the improvement in life satisfaction not only needs the abundance of external material conditions but also needs the individual to improve their physical and mental health through physical exercise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Physical activity (PA) and exercise (EX) participation rates have not been increasing among older adults, with many not meeting recommended guidelines. This qualitative descriptive study examined factors influencing engagement in PA within and outside an older adult fitness club context, using self-determination theory (SDT). Methods: Thirty-seven community-dwelling adults 65 years and older participated in focus groups or telephone interviews. Two researchers independently coded and analyzed transcript data inductively and deductively using SDT. Results: Two broad themes, The Spectrum of Motivating Factors and Facilitators and Barriers, and nine sub-themes, Physical Activity and Exercise Brings Me Joy; Meaningful Personal Impetuses; I Get Active with a Little Help from my Spouse and Others; I See Changes and Improvements (Theme 1); I Can Do This; Connections and Sense of Belonging; I Cannot Do This; Setting, Environment, and People Supports; and Pragmatics (Theme 2), emerged from the data. All participants discussed several motivating factors: enjoyment, managing health conditions, being held 'to account' by others, opportunities for socialization, and seeing improvements in health and well-being. A lack of supportive environments, knowledgeable staff and suitable settings and programs were cited as barriers by participants who were not older adult fitness club members. Discussion: Factors along the extrinsic to intrinsic regulation continuum facilitated or hindered community-dwelling older adults to engage in and sustain PA within and outside an older adult fitness club context. The findings underscore the need for programs, settings, environments, and related components to be expressly older-adult-tailored to enhance motivation through competence, autonomy, and relatedness support for maximal engagement and participation in PA or EX. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aging is a process who leads to various diseases. The number of elderly people in the world is increasing. The rapid ageing of the population represents a significant public health burden. It predicts that the number of adults aged ≥ 65 will double to ~1. 5 billion in 2050. Functional independence and independent lifestyles are challenging in older individuals. Aging and comorbidities worsen the effectiveness of the balance system in the elderly, leading to weakening of stability and to falls and injuries. These, in turn, lead to reduced mobility, increased risk of disease and mortality. Lack of physical activity is a global health problem not only in geriatric patients. It is ranked as the fourth leading behavioral risk factor for mortality. The World Health Organization recommends that adults have 150 minutes of moderate or 75 minutes of intense physical activity per week, minimizing time spent in a sedentary lifestyle. Physical activity can reduce the risk of many chronic diseases: coronary heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, certain cancers, obesity, depression and dementia. Physical activity promotes well-being and quality of life, positively affects mental health. The aim of this study is to present the benefit of physical activity in adult patients. Conclusion: Physical activity in elderly patients may help preserve functional independence and improve quality of life. The use of kinesitherapy reduces the fear of walking, climbing stairs and falling and is a good method of prevention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigated the quadriceps muscle size and quantitative characteristics in older tennis players. Thirty-eight senior tennis players (70.8 ± 5.3 years) and 38 controls (71.6 ± 5.1 years) were included. To measure the muscle size and quality, we measured muscle thickness in the rectus femoris (RF), vastus lateralis, and vastus intermedius, and muscle echo intensity in the RF and vastus lateralis using B-mode transverse ultrasound, respectively. We measured knee extension peak torque for muscle function. Muscle thickness in the RF, vastus lateralis, and vastus intermedius were significantly larger in tennis players than in controls. Tennis players had a lower echo intensity in RF and a higher knee extension peak torque compared to controls. Stepwise multiple linear regression analysis implied that echo intensity and muscle thickness were predictors of knee extension peak torque. Higher muscle quality contributes to a higher knee extension peak torque in tennis players. Playing tennis may prevent age-related muscle atrophy and maintain muscle quality in older individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Covering: up to the end of 2022 In recent years rare Actinobacteria have become increasingly recognised as a rich source of novel bioactive metabolites. Actinomadura are Gram-positive bacteria that occupy a wide range of ecological niches. This review highlights about 230 secondary metabolites produced by Actinomadura spp., reported until the end of 2022, including their bioactivities and selected biosynthetic pathways. Notably, the bioactive compounds produced by Actinomadura spp. demonstrate a wide range of activities, including antimicrobial, antitumor and anticoccidial effects, highlighting their potential in various fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To validate range shifts in proton therapy, we investigated the potential of using the temporal information of prompt gamma rays as an indicator. We simulated the proton transport process using Monte Carlo simulations and used a geometric scorer to obtain the location and timing of prompt gamma ray production. By using a homogeneous target material in the simulation model, we established a fitted relationship between the range of 90-210 MeV protons and the corresponding temporal spectral width. Additionally, by introducing air cavities of 2-20 mm in simulations of inhomogeneous target materials, we observed significant correlations between the range offsets and the temporal spectral widths. These correlations were fitted to derive a functional relationship between the two variables. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, the incidence of chronic pancreatitis has increased significantly. Pancreatic calculi obstruct the pancreatic duct and induce abdominal pain in the patients. Pancreatic duct stenting is the major treatment option for chronic pancreatitis with calculi. In this study, a new kind of drug-eluting stent, a pancreatic stent coated by methacrylated gelatin (GelMA) hydrogel loaded with citric acid (CA), was designed for the interventional treatment of pancreatic duct calculi. The CA loading capacity reached up to 0.7 g CA/g hydrogel-coated stent. The GelMA hydrogel coating has higher mechanical strength and lower swelling performance after loading with CA. The in vitro experiments of stents exhibited good performance in CA sustained release and the calculi can be dissolved in almost 3 days. The stents also showed good blood compatibility and cell compatibility. This research has important clinical value in the treatment of chronic pancreatitis with pancreatic calculi. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Population aging is a global trend, and the number of older adults living alone is increasing. Tai chi, a traditional Chinese exercise, has been shown to improve the physical and mental health of older adults. Aim: To investigate the effects of tai chi on death anxiety in older adults living alone and the role of social support and psychological capital in this relationship. Method: A cross-sectional study of 493 older adults living alone in four cities in southwestern China. Participants were assessed using questionnaires on tai chi practice, social support, psychological capital, and death anxiety. Results: Tai chi practice significantly reduced death anxiety in older adults living alone. It also positively correlated with social support and psychological capital, both of which negatively correlated with death anxiety. Social support and psychological capital mediated the relationship between tai chi practice and death anxiety, suggesting that tai chi may reduce death anxiety through these factors. These findings encourage older adults living alone to practice tai chi, as it may improve their mental and physical health and reduce their risk of death anxiety. Conclusion: Tai chi practice may reduce death anxiety in older adults living alone through the chain-mediated effects of social support and psychological capital. This suggests that tai chi may be a beneficial intervention for older adults living alone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The COVID-19 pandemic negatively influenced individuals' physical activity levels (PALs) and particularly the PAL of the elderly. However, few studies have examined the correlates of PALs in this population during the pandemic. This study aimed to evaluate the residence-specific correlates of PALs in elderly people from Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina during the COVID-19 pandemic. The participants were 211 persons older than 65 years (101 females), of whom 111 were community-dwelling residents, and 110 were nursing home residents (71.11 ± 3.11 and 72.22 ± 4.01 years of age, respectively; t-test = 0.91, p < 0.05). The variables included health status, residential status sociodemographic factors, anthropometrics (body mass, height, and body mass index), and PAL. PAL was evaluated using a translated version of the Physical Activity Scale for the Elderly (PASE), and was validated in this study. PASE showed good test–retest reliability (51% of the common variance) and validity (57% of the common variance, with the step count measured using pedometers). Apart from participants' health status and age, PAL was positively correlated with (i) community-dwelling residence (OR = 1.93, 95% CI: 1.60–2.23), and (ii) a lower BMI (OR = 0.85, 95% CI = 0.71–0.98). The pre-pandemic physical activity was positively correlated with the PAL of the nursing home residents (OR = 1.2, 95% CI: 1.02–1.45). A higher education level was positively correlated with the PAL of community-dwelling residents (OR = 1.31, 95% CI: 1.04–1.66). This study evidenced the residence-specific correlates of PALs, and enabled the identification of specific groups that are at risk of having low PALs during the pandemic. Future studies examining this problem during a non-pandemic period are warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A phytochorological and ecobiological study of the nine species, two subspecies and two varieties of the genera Aeonium and Greenovia in La Gomera is carried out, with special attention to F1 hybridization in nature. To the ten hybrids already described on the island, seven new hybrids were discovered, which are the subject of a separate publication. In all the known hybrids I determined whether the parents were sympatric or allopatric. The geographical coincidence of the parents was a sine qua non requirement for hybridization to occur in all the hybrids known so far, since pollen transfer by biotic and abiotic agents does not function between disjunct areas. The two prezygotic reproductive barriers that currently prevent interspecific hybridization in Aeonium or intergeneric hybridization between Aeonium and Greenovia are the geographic separation of populations and the different flowering times. The ability to survive and reproduce successfully of F1 hybrids in Aeonium and Greenovia is usually lower than that of the parent species and they generally disappear from the environment in the first filial generation without leaving offspring. The fundamental principles that govern F1 hybridization in La Gomera are extracted, and after verifying that they were also fulfilled in the other mountainous islands, they were synthesized in eight principles, which provide an updated vision of hybridization in the genus Aeonium. Citation: Arango O. 2024: Principles governing F1 hybridization in the genera Aeonium and Greenovia in La Gomera, Canary Islands. – Willdenowia 53: 257–268 Version of record first published online on 23 January 2024. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The synthesis of the first terminal mono‐boryl complexes of nickel, which are not stabilized by a pincer ligand, is reported. The reaction of the nickel bis‐boryl complex cis‐[Ni(iPr2ImMe)2(Bcat)2] 1 (cat=1,2‐O2C6H4) with the small donor ligand PMe3 led to a complete ligand exchange at nickel with reductive elimination of B2cat2 and formation of the bis‐NHC adduct [B2cat2 ⋅ (iPr2ImMe)2] 3 and [Ni(PMe3)4] 2 as the metal‐containing species. Electrophilic attack of MeI on complex 1 or ligand dismutation of 1 with trans‐[Ni(iPr2ImMe)2Br2] led to loss of only one boryl ligand of 1 and afforded the nickel mono‐boryl complexes trans‐[Ni(iPr2ImMe)2(Bcat)Br] 4 a and trans‐[Ni(iPr2ImMe)2(Bcat)I] 4 b. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The synthesis and characterization of a series of Cr(II) N-Heterocyclic Carbene (NHC) complexes of the type [{Cr(NHC)Cl(μ-Cl)}2] and [(Cyp)Cr(NHC)X] (Cyp = η5-C5H5, cyclopentadienyl; η5-C5Me5, pentamethylcyclopentadienyl; X = Cl, η3-C3H5; NHC = IMeMe, IiPrMe, IMes, IDipp) as well as the cyclic (alkyl)(amino)carbene cAACMe ligated complexes [(η5-C5H5)Cr(cAACMe)X] (X = Cl, NPh2), [(η5-C9H7)Cr(cAACMe)Cl] (C9H7 = Ind, indenyl) and [(η5-C13H9)Cr(cAACMe)Cl] (C13H9 = Fl, fluorenyl) are reported. The reduction of [(η5-C5Me5)Cr(IMeMe)Cl] with KC8 in the presence of CO afforded the NHC ligated Cr(I) metallo-radical [(η5-C5Me5)Cr(IMeMe)(CO)2]. Quantum chemical calculations performed on [(η5-C5Me5)Cr(IMeMe)(CO)2] confirm for this complex a predominantly chromium centered radical. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The orientation of internal metagrain boundary shows an important influence on shearing behaviors and mechanical performance of architected polycrystal lattice. This study designs four types of architected polycrystal lattices equipped with single boundary, multiple parallel boundaries, or multiple intersecting boundaries, with boundary orientations of 0°, 26.55°, 45°, 63.45°, or 90°. The compressive responses of these architected polycrystal lattices are investigated to reveal the effects of the boundary orientations. Especially the relations between the shearing deformation and the boundary orientation are clarified, and the underlying shearing mechanisms are discussed to provide a basis for predicting and explaining the energy absorbing capacity in the architected polycrystal lattice. For the architected polycrystal lattice consisting of +30° and −30° orientated metagrains with intrinsic shear bands of 60° and 75°, the 75° rather than 60° shear band is more likely to occur when the angle of the architected polycrystal boundary increases from 0° to 90°. Most importantly, the higher energy absorption prefers the shear band more horizontal and shorter, which can be realized by increasing the angle and the number of grain boundaries. This contributes to resisting catastrophic failure for lattice structures. These findings provide guidance for developing novel lattice structures with well‐controlled mechanical characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Angewandte Chemie is the property of Wiley-Blackwell and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The bimetallic, decanuclear Ni3Ga7‐cluster of the formula [Ni3(GaTMP)3(μ2‐GaTMP)3(μ3‐GaTMP)] (1, TMP=2,2,6,6‐tetramethylpiperidinyl) reacts reversibly with dihydrogen under the formation of a series of (poly‐)hydride clusters 2. Low‐temperature 2D NMR experiments at −80 °C show that 2 consist of a mixture of a di‐ (2Di), tetra‐ (2Tetra) and hexahydride species (2Hexa). The structures of 2Di and 2Tetra are assessed by a combination of 2D NMR spectroscopy and DFT calculations. The cooperation of both metals is essential for the high hydrogen uptake of the cluster. Polyhydrides 2 are catalytically active in the semihydrogenation of 4‐octyne to 4‐octene with good selectivity. The example is the first of its kind and conceptually relates properties of molecular, atom‐precise transition metal/main group metal clusters to the respective solid‐state phase in catalysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to examine the associations of social support factors with leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) of older people in Fuwen village. A cross-sectional study included 523 randomly selected elderly people (60+ years) whose LTPA levels were determined using the shortened version of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ-S). A modified version of the Physical Activity Social Support Scale (PASSS) was operated to gather perceived scores of the social support factors. A multivariate linear regression was performed to locate associations of perceived scores of social supports with leisure-time walking (LTW) and moderate and vigorous physical activity (MVPA). The results indicated that social support from family was positively and significantly related to LTW and MVPA in both models. The community factor was positively and significantly correlated with MVPA in both models. The sport club factor was related to LTW and MVPA to some extent. The results suggest that social support from family is the most important motivator for older people's LTW and MVPA in the village of Fuwen. Social support from the community is the motivator for older people's MVPA. The sport club factor has some effects on older people's LTW and MVPA as well. More future studies are needed to extend the database of the relationship between social support and rural older people's physical activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This retrospective observational study describes the results of an ad-hoc designated prevention protocol aimed at containing the spread of the scabies infestation among healthcare workers (HCWs) of a large University Hospital in Italy. The outbreak started on October 2022 and a preventive protocol was set up thanks to a multidisciplinary approach. HCWs at high scabies risk were defined as subjects working in Operative Units with a scabies prevalence higher than 2%, close contacts of a confirmed case of scabies, or HCWs with signs and symptoms of the disease. All cases at high scabies risk underwent a dermatological examination, and the infested HCWs were suspended from work until definitive healing. Mass drug administration was established for all HCWs working in Operative Units with a scabies prevalence higher than 2%. Until March 2023, out of 183 screening dermatological examinations, 21 (11.5%) were diagnostic for scabies. Between 11 October 2022 (date of the first diagnosed scabies case) and 6 March 2023 (the end of incubation period related to the last case detected), the frequency of scabies was 0.35% (21 scabies cases/6000 HCWs). The duration of the outbreak in our hospital was 14.7 weeks. Statistical analysis shows a significant association between scabies and being a nurse and having an allergy to dust mites. We obtained a low frequency of scabies infection, limiting the duration of the outbreak and the related economic burden. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We theoretically investigate a circular dichroism (CD) spectrum enhancement in a silver disk-chiral TDBCs-silver disk structure in the strong coupling regime. Chiral TDBCs are sandwiched between two Ag disks. Absorption and scattering spectra are obtained by the finite difference time domain method. Both absorption and scattering CD spectra are also used to describe the chirality of our proposed structure. Chirality of TDBCs is amplified by localized surface plasmons (LSPs) excited in two Ag disk structure. Our results show that the chirality of TDBCs is amplified by the LSPs as 300 times for the absorption spectrum (150 times for the scattering spectrum) as the one of only TDBCs in the strong coupling regime. In the strong coupling regime, there is an optimal suit of parameters to make maximum of CD spectrum largest enhancement in the absorption spectrum. The enhancement factor of CD spectrum in the strong coupling regime is much larger than the one in the weak coupling regime. It is because that the stacking disk structure provides a strong confinement of the electric field to coupling with chiral TDBCs near the resonant wavelengths of TDBCs. Due to the large amplification of CD spectrum, our proposed structure provides a new method to detect the chirality of TDBCs in experiment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two competing theories explain the other‐'race' effect (ORE) either by greater perceptual expertise to same‐'race' (SR) faces or by social categorization of other‐'race' (OR) faces at the expense of individuation. To assess expertise and categorization contributions to the ORE, a promising—yet overlooked—approach is comparing activations for different other‐'races'. We present a label‐based systematic review of neuroimaging studies reporting increased activity in response to OR faces (African, Caucasian, or Asian) when compared with the SR of participants. Hypothetically, while common activations would reflect general aspects of OR perception, 'race'‐preferential ones would represent effects of 'race'‐specific visual appearance. We find that several studies report activation of occipito‐temporal and midcingulate areas in response to faces across different other‐'races', presumably due to high demand on the visual system and category processing. Another area reported in response to all OR faces, the caudate nucleus, suggests the involvement of socio‐affective processes and behavioural regulation. Overall, our results support hybrid models—both expertise and social categorization contribute to the ORE, but they provide little evidence for reduced motivation to process OR faces. Additionally, we identify areas preferentially responding to specific OR faces, reflecting effects of visual appearance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In melt electrospinning, accurate control of jet evolution and Taylor cone process parameters helps to control the final fiber properties. High-speed photography was employed to observe the jet’s formation process and the Taylor cone’s morphology. A multi-physics model of nonisothermal heat transfer was used to predict the fluid flow direction and velocity change. In addition, we investigated the relationships between the process parameters of the Taylor cone and the diameter of melt electrospun fiber. The results show an excellent linear relationship between the process parameters (cone angle, curvature, and Taylor cone height) and fiber diameter. According to the simulation results, the axial fluid flow keeps the maximum and accelerates continuously until the collector captures it. In addition, with the increase of voltage, the fiber strength is lower, and the crystallinity is improved. This work analyzes diameter and process parameters and offers a fresh perspective on electrostatic-fluid interaction and a method to forecast fiber diameter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]