bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Self‐reported hearing loss is associated with faster cognitive and functional decline but not diagnostic conversion in the ADNI cohort
Authors: Miller Alyssa A. , Sharp Emily S. , Wang Selena , Zhao Yize , Mecca Adam P. , van Dyck Christopher H. , O'Dell Ryan S. ,   for the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI)
Published: September 2024

INTRODUCTION

Hearing loss is identified as one of the largest modifiable risk factors for cognitive impairment and dementia. Studies evaluating this relationship have yielded mixed results.

METHODS

We investigated the longitudinal relationship between self‐reported hearing loss and cognitive/functional performance in 695 cognitively normal (CN) and 941 participants with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) enrolled in the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative.

RESULTS

Within CN participants with hearing loss, there was a significantly greater rate of cognitive decline per modified preclinical Alzheimer's cognitive composite. Within both CN and MCI participants with hearing loss, there was a significantly greater rate of functional decline per the functional activities questionnaire (FAQ). In CN and MCI participants, hearing loss did not significantly contribute to the risk of progression to a more impaired diagnosis.

DISCUSSION

These results confirm previous studies demonstrating a significant longitudinal association between self‐reported hearing loss and cognition/function but do not demonstrate an increased risk of conversion to a more impaired diagnosis.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION INFORMATION

NCT00106899 (ADNI: Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative, clinicaltrials.gov), NCT01078636 (ADNI‐GO: Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative Grand Opportunity, clinicaltrials.gov), NCT01231971 (ADNI2: Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative 2, clinicaltrials.gov), NCT02854033 (ADNI3: Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative 3, clinicaltrials.gov).

Highlights

Hearing loss is a potential modifiable risk factor for dementia.

We assessed the effect of self‐reported hearing loss on cognition and function in the ADNI cohort.

Hearing loss contributes to significantly faster cognitive and functional decline.

Hearing loss was not associated with conversion to a more impaired diagnosis.
Current status of professional memory clinics, inpatient services, and health professionals in China
Authors: Gan Jinghuan , Xin Jiawei , Wang Gang , Pan Xiaoping , Ren Zhihong , Xu Yuming , Peng Guoping , Sun Li , Zhang Min , You Yong , Chen Xuhui , Li Xia , Ji Yong , Chen Xiaochun
Published: September 2024

INTRODUCTION

This study aims to explore the current status of dementia‐specific diagnosis and treatment in China.

METHODS

This national survey was conducted in mainland China from September 2022 to February 2023, with strong support from the Cognitive Disorders Group of the Chinese Society of Neurology, Chinese Medical Association.

RESULTS

Among 2721 hospitals surveyed, 244 (8.97%) have dementia‐specific clinics (DSCs) and 166 (6.10%) have dementia‐specific inpatient departments (DSIDs). Almost all hospitals have brain structural imaging capabilities and basic hematological examinations, but dementia‐specific medical staff (DSMS) equipped for DSCs or DSIDs are rare. The proportion of patients with cognitive impairment receiving care through a DSCs or DSIDs is low, and most patients present with advanced (moderate to severe) disease.

CONCLUSION

The survey shows that the proportion of DSCs and DSIDs is low, and the regional distribution varies significantly. Trained DSMS and specialized facilities for the diagnosis and treatment of dementia are inadequate.

Highlights

This study was a multi‐center national research to comprehensively investigate the distribution and features of dementia‐specific clinics and inpatient departments in mainland China, given that the limited literature was available regarding the dementia‐specific centers.

The study points to significant regional differences in the distribution of cognitive‐specific clinics and inpatient departments in mainland China. More centers in Eastern Regions compared to Western Regions, a greater presence in provincial capitals as opposed to other cities, and a predominance of tertiary hospitals over non‐tertiary ones. The aim is to provide data support for advancements in medical research within this field.

Domestic dementia patients have inadequate access to specialized medical resources and expert assistance, which significantly contrasts with the growing number of dementia cases in China.
Stereocontrolled Synthesis of Chiral Helicene‐Indenido ansa‐ and Half‐Sandwich Metal Complexes and Their Use in Catalysis
Authors: Edlová Tereza , Rybáček Jiří , Cattey Hélène , Vacek Jaroslav , Bednárová Lucie , Le Gendre Pierre , Normand Adrien T. , Stará Irena G. , Starý Ivo
Published: September 2024

Despite recent tremendous progress in the synthesis of nonplanar chiral aromatics, and helicenes in particular, their conversion to half‐sandwich or sandwich transition metal complexes still lags behind, although they represent an attractive family of modular and underexplored chiral architectures with a potential catalytic use. In this work, starting from various chiral helicene‐indene proligands, we prepared the enantio‐ and diastereopure oxa[6]‐ and oxa[7]helicene‐indenido half‐sandwich RhI and RhIII complexes and oxa[7]helicene‐bisindenido ansa‐metallocene FeII complex. To document their use, oxahelicene‐indenido half‐sandwich RhIII complexes were employed as chiral catalysts in enantioselective C−H arylation of benzo[h]quinolines with 1‐diazonaphthoquinones to afford a series of axially chiral biaryls in mostly good to high yields and in up to 96 : 4 er. Thus, we developed stereocontrolled synthesis of chiral helicene‐indenido ansa‐ and half‐sandwich metal complexes, successfully demonstrated the first use of such helicene Cp‐related metal complexes in enantioselective catalysis, and described an unusual sequence of efficient central‐to‐helical‐to‐planar‐to‐axial chirality transfer.
Anomalous Pressure‐Induced Blue‐Shifted Emission of Ionic Copper‐Iodine Clusters: The Competitive Effect between Cuprophilic Interactions and Through‐Space Interactions
Authors: Wang Shanshan , Yang Zhiqiang , Sun Xuening , Wu Min , Sheng Kaiyang , Zhang Long , Yang Bing , Wang Kai , Sui Yongming , Zou Bo
Published: September 2024

Developing ionic copper‐iodine clusters with multiple emitting is crucial for enriching lighting and display materials with various colors. However, the luminescent properties of traditional ionic copper‐iodine clusters are often closely associated with low‐energy cluster‐centered triplet emission, which will redshift further as the Cu⋅⋅⋅Cu bond length decreases. This article utilizes a pressure‐treated strategy to achieve an anomalous pressure‐induced blue‐shifted luminescence phenomenon in ionic Cu4I6(4‐dimethylamino‐1‐ethylpyridinium)2 crystals for the first time, which is based on dominant through‐space charge‐transfer (TSCT). Herein, we reveal that the more advantageous through‐space interactions in the competition between cuprophilic interactions and through‐space interactions can lead to a blue‐shifted luminescence. High‐pressure angle‐dispersive X‐ray diffraction and high‐pressure infrared experiments show that the enhanced through‐space interactions mainly originate from forming new intermolecular C−H⋅⋅⋅I hydrogen bonds and the enhancement of van der Waals interactions between organic cations and anionic clusters. Theoretical calculations and experimental studies of excited‐state dynamics confirm that the blue‐shifted emission is due to the increased energy gap between the excited triplet and ground states caused by the electron delocalization under stronger through‐space interactions. This work deepens previous understanding and provides a new avenue to design and synthetic ionic copper‐iodine clusters with high‐energy TSCT emission.
Fully Exposed Ru Clusters for the Efficient Multi‐Step Toluene Hydrogenation Reaction
Authors: Wang Yue , Yu Hancheng , He Yurong , Xiang Shengling , Qin Xuetao , Yang Lini , Chen Jiawei , Si Yang , Zhang Jingwang , Diao Jiangyong , Wang Ning , Peng Mi , Ma Ding , Liu Hongyang
Published: September 2024

Liquid organic hydrogen carriers (LOHCs) are attractive platform molecules that play an important role in hydrogen energy storage and utilization. The multi‐step hydrogenation of toluene (TOL) to methylcyclohexane (MCH) has been widely studied in the LOCHs systems, due to their relatively low toxicity and reasonable hydrogen storage capacity. Noble metal catalysts such as Ru has exhibited good performance in multi‐step hydrogenation reactions, while the application is still hindered by their high cost and low specific activity. Therefore, the primary challenge lies in the development of noble metal catalysts with both robust activity and efficient atomic utilization. In this study, a series of Ru species ranging from single atoms, fully exposed clusters to nanoparticles were fabricated to investigate their structural evolution in the TOL multi‐step hydrogenation reaction. The fully exposed and atomically dispersed Ru clusters, composed of an average of 3 Ru atoms, exhibit superior catalytic performance and recycle ability in TOL multi‐step hydrogenation. Moreover, it delivers a high turnover frequency of 9850.3 h−1 under the relatively mild reaction (100 °C, 1.5 MPa), compared with those of single atoms and nanoparticles, and shows a notable advantage over catalysts reported in previous studies. From density functional theory (DFT) calculations, the overall barrier of the TOL multi‐step hydrogenation reaction over the fully exposed Ru clusters is significantly lower than that of single atoms and nanoparticles, resulting in its higher activity. The present work provides an efficient strategy to regulate the reaction pathway of multi‐step complicated catalytic reactions by designing fully exposed metal cluster catalysts.
Single‐Molecule Mechanoresistivity by Intermetallic Bonding
Authors: Sil Amit , Spano Chiara E. , Chelli Yahia , Higgins Simon J. , Sangtarash Sara , Piccinini Gianluca , Graziano Mariagrazia , Nichols Richard J. , Sadeghi Hatef , Vezzoli Andrea
Published: September 2024

The metal‐electrode interface is key to unlocking emergent behaviour in all organic electrified systems, from battery technology to molecular electronics. In the latter, interfacial engineering has enabled efficient transport, higher device stability, and novel functionality. Mechanoresistivity – the change in electrical behaviour in response to a mechanical stimulus and a pathway to extremely sensitive force sensors – is amongst the most studied phenomena in molecular electronics, and the molecule‐electrode interface plays a pivotal role in its emergence, reproducibility, and magnitude. In this contribution, we show that organometallic molecular wires incorporating a Pt(II) cation show mechanoresistive behaviour of exceptional magnitude, with conductance modulations of more than three orders of magnitude upon compression by as little as 1 nm. We synthesised series of cyclometalated Pt(II) molecular wires, and used scanning tunnelling microscopy – break junction techniques to characterise their electromechanical behaviour. Mechanoresistivity arises from an interaction between the Pt(II) cation and the Au electrode triggered by mechanical compression of the single‐molecule device, and theoretical modelling confirms this hypothesis. Our study provides a new tool for the design of functional molecular wires by exploiting previously unreported ion‐metal interactions in single‐molecule devices, and develops a new framework for the development of mechanoresistive molecular junctions.
Fluorescence capturing behaviour of cyanobacterial resilience: Insights into UV‐exposed ecosystems and its environmental applications
Authors: R. Prathima , M Basalingappa Kanthesh , D. Sai Kavya , K. R. Arjun , K. Girish Kanavi , J. Suresh , Murugesan Karthikeyan , Radhakrishnan Anjuna , Kandaswamy Deepa , Roy Bedanta , Thangaswamy Selvankumar , Selvaraj Bharath , R Jaganathan , M Maghimaa
Published: September 2024

Cyanobacteria are resilient microorganisms and thrive in environments exposed to UV radiation, ranging from ocean surfaces to scorching hot springs and dry expanses. ‘Cyanobacterial Resilience’ refers to their ability to withstand UV radiation, revealing intricate genomic secrets and adaptive mechanisms ensuring survival. These mechanisms include metabolic adaptations, robust DNA repair systems and UV‐protective compounds such as Scytonemin and Mycosporine, vital for shielding against UV radiation survival. Cyanobacteria are crucial pioneers in UV‐exposed ecosystems, highlighting their resilience and adaptability. Some cyanobacteria exhibit luminescence, emitting blue‐green light due to phycobiliproteins, while bioluminescence in cyanobacteria, if it occurs, involves different compounds rather than luciferins and luciferase enzymes. This luminescence holds promise for various biotechnological applications, such as biosensors, imaging probes and carbon sequestration, for participating in photocatalytic processes for water purification and CO2 conversion, and contributes to solar simulation studies to advance photosynthesis and renewable energy technologies. The versatile applications of these materials highlight their ecological importance and potential in addressing global challenges. In conclusion, ‘Cyanobacterial Resilience’ highlights the remarkable adaptation strategies of cyanobacteria in UV‐exposed environments. It emphasises their role as pioneers and innovators in biological and technological domains, providing insights into their enduring impact on ecosystems and scientific advancement.
Investigation of red‐emitting CaMoO4: Eu3+ phosphor by partitioning of substitutional PO43− ions via solid‐state reaction method
Authors: Letswalo Machaba L. A. , Reddy Leelakrishna , Balakrishna Avula , Swart Hendrik C. , Ntwaeaborwa Odireleng M.
Published: September 2024

To investigate the impact of PO43− anionic groups, the trivalent europium ion‐doped calcium molybdate (CaMoO3‐PO4:xEu3+, where x = 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, and 2.5 mol%) phosphors were synthesized using the solid‐state reaction method. The detailed study of the phosphor materials was carried out by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE‐SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), optical diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS), and photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy. The XRD results indicate that the substitution of PO43− anion and Eu3+ dopant ion did not affect the crystal structures of the CaMoO4 phosphors. Ultraviolet–visible (UV–vis) absorption analysis revealed the change of absorption edge of both un‐doped and Eu3+‐doped CaMoO4‐PO4 phosphors. Under the 394 nm UV‐excitation, the recorded PL spectra showed an intense peak at 615 nm corresponding to the Eu3+: 5D0 → 7F2 transition. The results of the Commission Internationale de l'Eclairage (CIE) diagram reported that the color of the emissions lies in the red color zone and there is no change in the CIE coordinates of the overall emission for Eu3+‐doped CaMoO4‐PO4 as Eu concentration changes. Thus, these observations led to finding the best red components for white light‐emitting diode applications.
Nanocomposite Hydrogels from Nanodiamonds and a Self‐Assembling Tripeptide
Authors: Marin Davide , Kralj Slavko , Stehlik Stepan , Marchesan Silvia
Published: September 2024

We report the successful assembly of a tripeptide in the presence of nanodiamonds (NDs) into nanocomposite hydrogels. While the presence of NDs does not hinder peptide self‐assembly and gelation kinetics are not affected, NDs improve the viscoelastic properties and significantly increase the elastic moduli of the peptide hydrogels. Increased resistance of the gels against applied stress can also be attained depending on the amount of NDs loaded in the nanocomposite. Raman micro‐spectroscopy and TEM confirmed the presence of NDs on the surface, and not in the interior, of peptide nanofibers. Peptide‐ND non‐covalent interactions are also probed by Raman and Fourier‐transformed infrared spectroscopies. Overall, this work enables the embedding of NDs into nanocomposite hydrogels formed through the self‐assembly of a simple tripeptide at physiological pH, and it provides key insights to open the way for their future applications in biomaterials, for instance exploiting their luminescence and near‐infrared responsiveness.
Lenacapavir: Playing the Long Game in the New Era of Antiretrovirals
Authors: Neverette Noah C. , Dumond Julie B. , McMahon Deborah K. , Devanathan Aaron S.
Published: September 2024

The mainstay of antiretroviral therapy (ART) has been combination oral therapy. While oral ART is highly effective, nonadherence remains a chief concern. Addressing this concern in recent years is the emergence of long‐acting antiretrovirals for the treatment and prevention of HIV‐1 infection. The most recently approved long‐acting antiretroviral is the first‐in‐class capsid inhibitor lenacapavir (LEN) for heavily treatment‐experienced adults with multidrug‐resistant HIV‐1 infection. Due to its biannual subcutaneous dosing scheme to inhibit the HIV‐1 capsid, LEN exhibits unique pharmacokinetics and reinforces an evolving era of ART. In this review, we evaluate published and accepted research articles, conference proceedings, and clinical trial records to provide a comprehensive overview of LEN for treatment and preliminary data for the prevention of HIV‐1 infection. These data include clinical trials outcomes, in vitro and in vivo resistance profiles, and preclinical data supporting downstream indications. We also discuss the unique clinical pharmacology of LEN with the goal of serving as a resource toward subsequent physiologically based, population‐based, and other miscellaneous pharmacometric‐focused analyses. Given the dynamic nature of the HIV treatment and prevention research fields, we also discuss ongoing studies related to LEN for treatment‐naïve adults and for prevention. Lastly, we discuss important pharmacologic gaps in special populations, drug–drug interactions, and at the sites of action germane to HIV treatment and prevention. The information discussed in this review will provide knowledge and understanding of the unique pharmacologic properties of LEN to assist clinicians and researchers as they navigate the dynamic HIV research landscape.
Identifying institutional gaps: Implications for an early‐stage support framework for impact entrepreneurs
Authors: Bläse Richard , Filser Matthias , Weise Jana , Björck Albena , Puumalainen Kaisu
Published: September 2024

Impact entrepreneurship is a pivotal force in harmonizing environmental, social, and economic objectives, yet in the early stages of their ventures, entrepreneurs face complex challenges. Grounded in institutional theory, this study investigates the unique needs of impact entrepreneurs and uncovers shortcomings in the existing institutional support frameworks. An in‐depth qualitative analysis was conducted involving semi‐structured interviews with successful impact entrepreneurs and identifying key needs across four main categories: knowledge frameworks, entrepreneurial skill sets, resource dependencies, and sociocultural and personal elements. We deduced essential requirements for clear operational guidelines, financial and legal support systems, collaborative academic interactions, and access to a skilled workforce. Our findings challenge the efficiency and alignment of current support mechanisms with the unique demands of impact entrepreneurship. Finally, this investigation not only sheds light on the complex needs of impact entrepreneurs but also contributes significantly to the academic discourse by recommending improvements in institutional support structures, potentially reshaping the field of impact entrepreneurship.
In‐Situ HF Forming Agents for Sustainable Manufacturing of Iron‐Based Oxygen Reduction Reaction Electrocatalysis Synthesized Through Sacrificial Support Method
Authors: Mostoni Silvia , Mirizzi Lorenzo , Frigerio Alessandra , Zuccante Giovanni , Ferrara Chiara , Muhyuddin Mohsin , D'Arienzo Massimiliano , Fernanda Orsini Sara , Scotti Roberto , Cosenza Alessio , Atanassov Plamen , Santoro Carlo
Published: September 2024

Fe−Nx−Cs being suitable to replace scarce and overpriced platinum group metals (PGMs) for cathodic oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) are gaining significant importance in the fuel cell arena. Although the typical sacrificial support method (SSM) ensures the superior electrocatalytic activity of derived Fe−Nx−C, removing silica hard templates always remains a great challenge due to the hazardous use of highly toxic and not environmentally friendly hydrofluoric acid. Herein, strategic insight was given to modified SSM by exploiting the in‐situ formation of HF, deriving from the decomposition of NH4HF2 and NaF, to dissolve silica templates, thus avoiding the direct use of HF. First, the suitable molar ratio between the etching agent and the silica was analyzed, revealing that NH4HF2 efficiently dissolved silica even in a stoichiometric amount, whereas an excess of NaF was required. However, both etching agents exhibited conformal removal of silica while dispersed active moieties within the highly porous architecture of derived electrocatalysts were left behind. Moreover, NH4HF2‐washed counterparts demonstrated relatively higher performance both in acidic and alkaline media. Notably, with NH4HF2‐washed Fe−Nx−C electrocatalyst, a remarkable onset potential of 970 mV (vs RHE) was achieved with nearly tetra‐electronic ORR as the peroxide yield remained less than 10 % in the alkaline medium.
Rhodium/Trialkylamines Catalyzed Reductive Hydroformylation in Ionic Liquid/Heptane Medium: An Unexpected Concept for Catalyst Recycling in Batch and Continuous Flow Processes
Authors: El Mouat Abdelghani , Abdallah Walid , Ternel Jérémy , Ferreira Michel , Bricout Hervé , Vorholt Andreas J. , Stieber Hannah , Stoertte Sven , Monflier Eric , Lahcini Mohammed , Tilloy Sébastien
Published: September 2024

We report here the rhodium catalyzed reductive hydroformylation of methyl 10‐undecenoate. Our approach is based on an ionic liquid/heptane biphasic system associated with commercially available trialkylamines. The effects of various reaction parameters such as amine type, amine amount, temperature, syngas pressure and composition were studied in order to minimize the rhodium leaching and increase the production of primary alcohols. Although the amine is less soluble in the ionic liquid than in heptane, the catalytic system is efficiently maintained in the ionic liquid phase. For the optimized conditions, the catalytic ionic liquid layer can be recycled at least nine times by keeping an alcohol yield over 50 % and by limiting the rhodium leaching. As an extension of this system and to examine the long‐term stability, this batch system was transferred to a miniplant for a continuous flow process. A pilot plant was operated for 45 h of total reaction time, reaching a TTON of 232 for alcohol production.
Stable and Versatile Pd Precursors for the Preparation of Robust Pd Catalysts Under Continuous‐Flow
Authors: Sakurada Naoya , Kobayashi Kwihwan , Abe Yuka , Niwa Kosuke , Yokoyama Takashi , Yamada Tsuyoshi , Ikawa Takashi , Sajiki Hironao
Published: September 2024

To achieve global sustainability, the chemical and engineering communities require the development of versatile precursors that can be used to synthesize robust catalysts. To meet this demand, we developed a new Pd precursor for highly efficiently incorporating fine Pd‐metal into supports. An atmospherically stable Pd precursor (Pd‐80) was prepared by thermally promoting the aerobic oxidation of tetrakis(triphenylphosphine)palladium. The physical properties of Pd‐80 were investigated by NMR spectroscopy, SEM, XPS, solvent‐relaxation NMR spectroscopy, and dynamic light scattering (DLS) experiments. We also prepared a cordierite‐supported Pd catalyst (Pd/cordierite) by stirring Pd‐80 and cordierite powder in chloroform at room temperature. Pd/cordierite selectively catalyzed the hydrogenation of various reducible functional groups, including alkynes, azides, nitro groups, olefins, CO2Bn, N‐Cbz, O‐Bn, aromatic ketones, and styrene oxide, in continuous‐flow hydrogenation reactions. The Pd/cordierite‐catalyzed continuous‐flow hydrogenation of nitrobenzene derivatives afforded the corresponding anilines, with catalytic activities maintained for over 250 h of continuous operation with a turnover number (TON) of 61,090.
Negative Affect as a Mediator Between Exposure to Fitspiration and Thinspiration and Disordered Eating Behaviors: An Ecological Momentary Assessment Study
Authors: Christensen Pacella Kara A. , Forbush Kelsie T. , Chen Yiyang , Nation Maegan B. , Cushing Christopher C. , Swinburne Romine Rebecca E.
Published: September 2024

Objective

Although social media use, such as Instagram, has been associated with ED pathology, mechanisms connecting social media use to disordered eating behaviors (DEBs) remain largely unevaluated. Based on Dual Process, Tripartite, and Affect Regulation models of ED pathology, we proposed a moderated mediation model evaluating impacts of exposure to fitspiration/thinspiration on Instagram.

Method

We evaluated a hypothesized pathway from exposure to fitspiration/thinspiration (i.e., ED‐salient content) on Instagram to disordered eating mediated by negative affect and tested individual differences in weight bias internalization, trait self‐esteem, and trait self‐comparison as moderators. We recruited 173 undergraduate women who reported engaging in DEBs on average at least once per week over the past 3 months. Participants completed a seven‐day ecological momentary assessment protocol, during which they reported their ED‐salient content exposure on Instagram, affect, and engagement in DEBs.

Results

Multilevel modeling was used to assess moderated mediation. Negative affect partially mediated associations between viewing ED‐salient content and subsequent engagement in objective binge eating and restricting but did not mediate the pathway to purging or excessive exercise. Higher weight bias internalization intensified the association between viewing ED‐salient content and negative affect.

Discussion

The association between viewing ED‐salient content and engaging in objective binge eating and restricting may be a partial consequence of elevated negative affect; however, effects were small. Individuals with higher weight bias internalization may be more vulnerable to negative consequences from viewing ED‐salient content. Findings suggested that reducing negative affect responses (e.g., via emotion regulation) could reduce negative consequences of viewing ED‐salient content.
Seismic vulnerability assessment of a railway beam bridge considering brittle failure of the restrainer in a friction pendulum system
Authors: Yuan Quanchuang , Yin Weitao , Deng Kailai , Lu Hao , Pang Lin , Chen Xingchen
Published: September 2024

The restrainers in the friction pendulum system (FPS) may experience brittle failure during an earthquake. Strong nonlinear behavior should be considered to precisely assess the seismic performance of the railway beam bridge under an earthquake. A seismic vulnerability assessment was performed based on a typical simply supported railway beam bridge. Three different models of the FPS in fixed direction were considered: elastic restrainer model, brittle restrainer model, and nonrestrainer model. Through dynamic analysis, the responses of the railway beam bridge were obtained, including the force and displacement of the FPSs, the curvature ductility at the pier bottom, and transverse dislocation at the beam gap. The analysis results pointed out when the earthquake intensity exceeded the fundamental intensity, the brittle failure of the restrainers was very likely to happen. The sudden release of energy introduced a displacement pulse to the FPS. The elastic restrainer model overestimated the force demand and damage probability of the substructures but underestimated the FPS displacement and dislocation at the beam gap. The nonrestrainer model seriously underestimated the force demand of the substructure and the FPS displacement under strong earthquakes. The brittle restrainer model could reflect the nonuniform failure of the restrainers and provide a more accurate estimate of the transverse dislocation at the beam gap.
Roles of Divinylbenzene Co‐Cross‐Linker in a Threefold Cross‐Linked Polystyrene–Phosphine Hybrid Monolith: Impact of Cross‐linking Degree on Catalytic Performance
Authors: Matsumoto Hikaru , Hoshino Yu , Iwai Tomohiro , Sawamura Masaya , Miura Yoshiko
Published: September 2024

Continuous‐flow organic transformations using immobilized catalysts are crucial for green and sustainable chemistry. Cross‐linked polymer ligands offer high stability, ease of recovery through filtration, and thus enhance performance in continuous‐flow reactions via transition‐metal catalysis. Additionally, the cross‐linking structure of the polymer support creates a unique reaction platform that controls the coordination behavior of the supported ligands and stabilizes the metal catalysts. However, insights into the material‐based design for preparing highly active and durable immobilized metal catalysts are still limited. In this report, we propose a straightforward approach to boost both selective mono‐coordination and effective stabilization of metal complexes. We developed threefold cross‐linked polystyrene‐triphenylphosphine hybrid monoliths with cross‐linking structures adjusted by varying the content of divinylbenzene as co‐cross‐linker. The coordination behaviors and metal‐support interactions of these monoliths were evaluated, highlighting the importance of co‐cross‐linker content in site‐isolating phosphine units and stabilizing metal centers via arene‐metal interactions on the polystyrene network. By optimizing the cross‐linking structure, the monolith catalysts demonstrated exceptionally high catalytic activity and durability in Pd‐catalyzed C−Cl transformations, such as Suzuki–Miyaura cross‐couplings and Buchwald‐Hartwig aminations in continuous flow. This underscores the utility of our monolith system in challenging transition‐metal catalysis.
Geographical disparities in fibromyalgia severity: An Italian study
Authors: Di Carlo Marco , Farah Sonia , Atzeni Fabiola , Alciati Alessandra , Di Franco Manuela , Iannuccelli Cristina , Bazzichi Laura , Bianchi Gerolamo , Giovale Massimo , Tirri Rosella , Guiducci Serena , Guggino Giuliana , Franceschini Franco , Foti Rosario , Lo Gullo Alberto , Biasi Giovanni , Gremese Elisa , Dagna Lorenzo , Tirri Enrico , Giacomelli Roberto , Batticiotto Alberto , Cutolo Maurizio , Sarzi‐Puttini Piercarlo , Salaffi Fausto
Published: September 2024

Background

Geographic origin may represent a variable capable of influencing health status. This study aims to investigate the presence of differences of disease severity in Italian patients with fibromyalgia from different macro‐regions.

Methods

This retrospective, cross‐sectional study involved patients included in the Italian Fibromyalgia Registry. Three geographical macro‐regions were identified, comprising patients from Northern Italy, Central Italy and Southern Italy. Clinical differences (evaluated through PolySymptomatic Distress Scale [PSD], revised Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire [FIQR] and modified Fibromyalgia Assessment Status [FASmod]) among the geographical macro‐regions were studied using one‐way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and the Scheffé's test.

Results

A total of 6095 patients (5719 females and 376 males) were included, with 1957 from Northern Italy, 2979 from Central Italy and 1159 from Southern Italy. All studied clinical indices showed a trend indicative of greater disease severity in Southern Italy, followed by Northern Italy and then Central Italy (mean values for PSD: 19.97 ± 6.20 in Northern Italy, 18.61 ± 7.12 in Central Italy, 23.01 ± 5.66 in Souther Italy). These differences were statistically significant for the overall scores of all studied indices, evaluated with ANOVA (all p < 0.001) and in the head to head comparisons, evaluted with Scheffé's test.

Conclusions

Geographic background is significantly associated with variations in the severity of fibromyalgia in Italian patients.

Significance Statement

This is the first study to demonstrate geographical origin‐dependent intra‐national differences in the severity of fibromyalgia. The results confirm the necessity of considering fibromyalgia within the context of the biopsychosocial model and of implementing healthcare policies targeted towards the most underserved regions.
Bias correction of daily precipitation from climate models, using the Q‐GAM method
Authors: Lazoglou Georgia , Economou Theo , Anagnostopoulou Christina , Tzyrkalli Anna , Zittis George , Lelieveld Jos
Published: September 2024

Climate models are useful tools for analyzing historical and projecting future climate conditions. However, the model results tend to differ systematically from observations, particularly for parameters with complex spatial and temporal distributions such as precipitation. A combination of quantile mapping and generalized additive models (GAMs) is presented and proposed as a new method (Q‐GAM) for the bias correction of daily precipitation. Q‐GAM is demonstrated by using data from five European stations with different climate characteristics. For each station, the closest continental grid point of a EURO‐CORDEX climate model was selected for bias correction. A bootstrapping experiment is presented with over 1000 repetitions of randomly splitting the historical period 1981 to 2005 into a calibration and evaluation period. The results for all stations reveal that Q‐GAM is a straightforward, accurate and computationally efficient method for the bias correction of precipitation. In particular, the method improves the frequency of dry days and the total annual rainfall amount. This outcome is robust across stations with varying climate characteristics and also to the choice of calibration and evaluation periods. Similar results are also obtained for other precipitation characteristics such as the 0.9 and 0.95 quantiles.
Factors influencing community engagement approaches used in Aedes aegypti management in Cairns, Australia
Authors: Allen Tammy , Crouch Alan , Russell Tanya L. , Topp Stephanie M.
Published: September 2024

Issue Addressed

An important part of preventing and managing Aedes‐borne mosquito disease outbreak risk is engaging the community. Research shows that high‐income countries tend to use top‐down measures for Aedes mosquito management, favouring educational approaches to engage the community over participatory approaches that actively involve and empower the community in addressing disease risk. Little is known about the reasons behind the use of these approaches and how they could be strengthened. This research explores the community engagement approaches used in Aedes mosquito management in Cairns, Queensland, Australia and the factors influencing the choice of these approaches.

Methods

A case study design was used, drawing on two qualitative methods—key informant, semi‐structured interviews (n = 25), and a document review (n = 20). Thematic analysis was used to identify, analyse and attribute meaning from the data.

Results

Various approaches were used to engage the community, including direct interaction through door‐to‐door inspections, broad outreach via mass media campaigns, and community participation in a novel mosquito replacement strategy. Factors influencing the choice of these approaches included government legislative responsibilities, research‐related ethical obligations, work norms within local government and public health units, the perceived importance of gaining community trust, constraints on workforce capacity, time and funding.

Conclusions

There were multiple factors influencing the community engagement approaches used in this study. Resource constraints, institutional norms and prevailing attitudes and beliefs were identified as hindering the use of more empowering approaches to engaging the community. These barriers should be considered and addressed in the planning of Aedes mosquito management to better support community engagement in this setting.

So What?

Community engagement is an important aspect of managing the Aedes mosquito disease threat. With the global increase in Aedes mosquito‐borne disease risk, these findings can help other at‐risk settings understand potential organisational impediments to engaging the community. This is particularly important when advocating for the inclusion of bottom‐up approaches in policy, and to ensure sufficient resources are allocated to strengthen community engagement in Aedes mosquito management.
Multifunctional all‐nanofiber cloth integrating personal health monitoring and thermal regulation capabilities
Authors: Wang Peng , Sun Guifen , Hua Shuaichuang , Yu Wei , Meng Chuizhou , Han Qing , Kim Jeonghyun , Guo Shijie , Shen Guozhen , Li Yang
Published: September 2024

Frequent heat waves and cold spells pose threats to human survival. Herein, we develop a multifunctional all‐nanofiber cloth with physiological signal monitoring and personal thermal management capabilities through facile fiber electrospinning and ink printing techniques. The double‐sided fabric mat of a thick carbon nanotube network with high solar absorption on top of a thermoplastic polyurethane nanofiber substrate with high solar reflectivity and mid‐infrared emissivity offers a contrary thermal management effect of heating or cooling by opposite wearing mode. The integrated fabric strain and temperature sensors for health status evaluation through monitoring physiological signals of respiration and body temperature. By wearing a T‐shirt tailored by the developed electronic cloth, the wearer's skin temperature can be actively regulated with cooling by 5.4°C and warming by 3.0°C in hot and cold environments compared to normal clothing, respectively. This platform can inspire further studies in wearable multifunctional permeable electronics.

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Exploring the potential of the convergence between extracellular vesicles and CAR technology as a novel immunotherapy approach
Authors: Bar Ofir , Porgador Angel , Cooks Tomer
Published: September 2024

Cancer therapy is a dynamically evolving field, witnessing the emergence of innovative approaches that offer a promising outlook for patients grappling with persistent disease. Within the realm of therapeutic exploration, chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells as well as CAR NK cells, have surfaced as novel approaches, each possessing unique attributes and transformative potential. Immune cells engineered to express CARs recognizing tumour‐specific antigens, have shown remarkable promise in treating terminal cancers by combining the precision of antibody specificity with the potent cytotoxic function of T cells. However, their application in solid tumours is still in its nascent stages, presenting unique major challenges. On the same note, CAR NK cells offer a distinct immunotherapeutic approach, utilizing CARs on NK cells, providing advantages in safety, manufacturing simplicity, and a broader scope for cancer treatment. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) have emerged as promising therapeutic agents due to their ability to carry crucial biomarkers and biologically active molecules, serving as vital messengers in the intercellular communication network. In the context of cancer, the therapeutic potential of EVs lies in delivering tumour‐suppressing proteins, nucleic acid components, or targeting drugs with precision, thereby redefining the paradigm of precision medicine. The fusion of CAR technology with the capabilities of EVs has given rise to a new therapeutic frontier. CAR T EVs and CAR NK EVs, leveraging the power of EVs, have the potential to alleviate challenges associated with live‐cell therapies. EVs are suggested to reduce the side effects linked to CAR T cell therapy and hold the potential to revolutionize the penetrance in solid tumours. EVs act as carriers of pro‐apoptotic molecules and RNA components, enhancing immune responses and thereby expanding their therapeutic potential. In this review article, we navigate dynamic landscapes, with our objective being to evaluate comparative efficacy, safety profiles, manufacturing complexities, and clinical applicability.
Extrusion pre‐treatment of cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.) lignocellulosic sidestream to produce cellulose fibres
Authors: Masanabo Mondli Abednicko , Keränen Janne Tapani , Ray Suprakas Sinha , Emmambux M Naushad
Published: September 2024

BACKGROUND

Various agricultural sidestreams have been demonstrated as feedstock to produce cellulose. To the best of our knowledge, there is no research work on the potential of agricultural sidestream from cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.), a neglected and underutilised crop to produce cellulose fibres. Conventional methods to produce cellulose consume large amounts of chemicals (NaOH) and produce a high amount of effluent waste. Herein, we investigated extrusion pre‐treatment without and with an alkali followed by bleaching as an alternative method to conventional alkaline pre‐treatment followed by bleaching to produce cellulose fibres from cowpea sidestream.

RESULTS

Cellulose extracted by extrusion without and with mild alkali followed by bleaching consumed about 20 times less NaOH compared to the conventional method and produced less effluent waste. Extrusion with mild alkali followed by bleaching resulted in higher cellulose yield, purity, and crystallinity compared to extrusion without an alkali followed by bleaching. However, the conventional method resulted in higher cellulose yield, purity and crystallinity compared to extrusion pre‐treatment followed by bleaching. Scanning electron microscopy revealed that micro‐sized cellulose fibres with an average diameter of 10–15 μm were extracted using both methods. Notably, cellulose fibres extracted using extrusion pre‐treatment were shorter than those extracted using the conventional method.

CONCLUSION

Extrusion pre‐treatment is a promising continuous alternative to alkaline pre‐treatment to produce micro‐sized cellulose fibres from low‐value, underutilised cowpea lignocellulosic sidestream, for potential use as a filler in composite plastics. © 2024 The Author(s). Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Environmental Locus of Control in Island Travelers and Pro‐Environmental Behavior
Authors: Kim Jinkyung Jenny , Kang Heerae , Tan Hongjuan , Hwang Jinsoo
Published: September 2024

The present research aims to enhance the understanding of island travelers and their behavior through the lens of the environmental locus of control. This study incorporates the important factors of cognitive and affective stages that influence pro‐environmental behavior depending on the level of internal and external environmental locus of control. The research findings provide evidence about the level of environmental locus of control in regards to island travelers and the formation process of pro‐environmental behavior based on the cognition‐affection‐conation model. Last, this research shows how the internal and external environmental locus of control moderate the relationships among the core constructs that contribute in order to develop environmentally friendly behavior. The findings offer several academic and practical implications for sustainable island tourism.
Treatment Outcomes in Patients with Carcinoma In Situ of the Larynx
Authors: I Ghanem Ahmed , Gilbert Marissa , Lin Chun‐Hui , Keller Christian E , Gardner Glendon M , Mayerhoff Ross , Siddiqui Farzan
Published: September 2024

Objective

To compare survival endpoints in patients with laryngeal carcinoma in situ (L‐CIS) who received definitive radiotherapy (RT) versus other modalities as first‐line treatment and after disease recurrence.

Methods

This is a retrospective study of patients with L‐CIS treated between June 2001 and December 2021. Survival outcomes (recurrence‐free (RFS), invasion‐free (IFS), laryngectomy‐free (LFS), and overall survival (OS)) were compared between patients who had first‐line RT versus non‐RT modalities and for patients with recurrent disease who underwent second‐line RT.

Results

A total of 85 patients with L‐CIS were included (73 men [85.9%] and 12 [14.1%] women, median age of 65 [IQR: 55–74] years). Of these, 42 had first‐line RT (49.4%) and 43 (50.6%) had non‐RT treatment. After median follow‐up of 4.8 (IQR: 2.8–9) years, patients in the first‐line RT group had improved 2‐year (94.2% [95% confidence interval (CI): 86.7–100] versus 41.7% [CI: 29.3–59.5]) and 5‐year (90.6% [CI: 80.9–100] versus 27.5% [CI: 16.4–48.2]) RFS relative to non‐RT recipients (p < 0.001). OS and IFS were similar between groups. However, patients in the RT group had worse 2‐year (94% [CI: 87–100] versus 98% [CI: 93–100]) and 5‐year (82% [CI: 68–99] versus 98% [CI: 93–100]; p = 0.013) LFS. All 35 patients with recurrent L‐CIS were successfully cured with second‐line treatments (12 received RT [34.3%]), and no differences in any survival endpoints were seen in these patients based on first‐line and second‐line treatments.

Conclusion

Although first‐line RT for L‐CIS led to improved recurrence‐free survival compared with other modalities, second‐line RT may be a particularly valuable option for recurrent CIS.

Level of Evidence

3 Laryngoscope, 135:779–786, 2025
Sensorineural Hearing Loss in Patients With the m.1555A>G Mutation in the MTRNR1 Gene
Authors: Gallo‐Terán Jaime , Salomón‐Felechosa Cristina , González‐Aguado Rocío , Onecha Esther , Fontalba Ana , del Castillo Ignacio , Morales‐Angulo Carmelo
Published: September 2024

Objective

Mutations in the MTRNR1 gene of mitochondrial DNA are associated with non‐syndromic hearing loss and increased susceptibility to aminoglycoside ototoxicity. The aim of our study was to determine the clinical characteristics of sensorineural hearing loss caused by the m.1555A>G mutation in MTRNR1.

Methods

An observational retrospective study of the m.1555A>G mutation was conducted in patients with suspected hereditary bilateral sensorineural hearing loss in the Department of Otolaryngology of the Marqués de Valdecilla University Hospital (Cantabria, Spain) and in 100 controls with normal hearing.

Results

The m.1555A>G mutation was found in 82 individuals from 20 different families and in none of the controls. Variable degrees of hearing loss were observed, ranging from normal hearing to profound deafness. Patients with a history of streptomycin administration exhibited significantly more pronounced hearing loss. The onset of hearing loss occurred from childhood to adulthood, with progression or stability over the years. No associated vestibular alterations or other clinical manifestations outside the ear were found. Two cochlear implant recipients showed significant improvement in speech comprehension.

Conclusions

Patients with the m.1555A>G mutation in the MTRNR1 gene often develop bilateral, symmetric sensorineural hearing loss, predominantly affecting high frequencies, worsened by streptomycin administration. This mutation does not affect the vestibular function. The variability in the severity of hearing loss, the heterogeneity of phenotypic expression, and the presence of carrier individuals with normal hearing may indicate the existence of modifying factors, both environmental and genetic. Cochlear implantees showed a good response in terms of speech intelligibility. Genetic testing for this mutation is recommended in patients with a family history of hearing loss to prevent the use of aminoglycosides if the mutation is found.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 135:901–907, 2025