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BACKGROUND: Physical inactivity is associated with adverse health outcomes among Asian Americans, who exhibit the least adherence to physical activity guidelines compared with other racial and ethnic groups. Mobile app-based interventions are a promising approach to promote healthy behaviors. However, there is a lack of app-based interventions focused on improving physical activity among Asian Americans whose primary language is not English. OBJECTIVE: This pilot study aimed to assess the feasibility and acceptability of a 5-week intervention using a culturally and linguistically adapted, evidence-based mobile phone app with an accelerometer program, to promote physical activity among Chinese-, Tagalog-, or Vietnamese-speaking Americans. METHODS: Participants were recruited through collaborations with community-based organizations. The intervention was adapted from a 12-month physical activity randomized controlled trial involving the app and accelerometer for English-speaking adults. Sociodemographic characteristics, lifestyle factors, and physical measurements were collected at the baseline visit. A 7-day run-in period was conducted to screen for the participants who could wear a Fitbit One (Fitbit LLC) accelerometer and complete the apps daily step diary. During the 4-week intervention period, participants wore the accelerometer and reported their daily steps in the app. Participants also received daily messages to reinforce key contents taught during an in-person educational session, remind them to input steps, and provide tailored feedback. Feasibility measures were the percentage of eligible participants completing the run-in period and the percentage of participants who used the app diary for at least 5 out of 7 days during the intervention period. We conducted poststudy participant interviews to explore overall intervention acceptability. RESULTS: A total of 19 participants were enrolled at the beginning of the study with a mean age of 47 (SD 13.3; range 29-70) years, and 58% (n=11) of them were female. Of the participants, 26% (n=5) were Chinese, 32% (n=6) were Vietnamese, and 42% (n=8) were Filipino. All participants met the run-in criteria to proceed with the intervention. Adherence to the app diary ranged from 74% (n=14) in week 2 to 95% (n=18) in week 4. The daily average steps per week from accelerometers increased each week from 8451 (SD 3378) steps during the run-in period to 10,930 (SD 4213) steps in week 4. Participants reported positive experiences including an increased motivation to walk and the enjoyment of being able to monitor their physical activity. CONCLUSIONS: This is the first pilot study of a multicomponent intervention and evidence-based mobile phone app to promote physical activity among Asian Americans who use apps in traditional Chinese, Tagalog, or Vietnamese, which demonstrated high feasibility and acceptability. Future work focused on multilingual mobile apps to address disparities in physical inactivity among Asian Americans should be considered.

Binary transition metal dichalcogenides (BTMDs) have attracted a lot of researchers to exploit their unique properties for different applications in various fields, mainly in energy and environment. Surprisingly, there are no attempts of utilizing BTMDs materials particularly nickel molybdenum selenide (NiMoSe2) as a catalyst support for organic transformations. Reusable catalysts are better alternatives to the transition metal‐free protocols for the synthesis of heterocyclic compounds. Herein, we report a NiMoSe2 BTMD catalyst with Lewis acidic (transition metal) and strongly basic (selenide) sites for the regioselective synthesis of 2,3,5‐tri(het)aryl‐pyrroles from β‐thioxoketone precursors. The present method is capable of giving the expected products in good to excellent yields (up to 80%). Different substituents like ester, cyano, alkyl, trifluoromethyl, methoxy, and halogens have shown tolerance under optimized reaction conditions. The recyclability and reusability of the catalyst was checked for five catalytic cycles without notable loss in reactivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Modulating the electronic state of multicomponent covalent organic framework (COF) electrocatalysts is crucial for enhancing catalytic activity. However, the effect of dimensionality on their physicochemical functionalities is still lacking. Herein, we report an interlaced unsaturated 2D and saturated 3D strategy to develop multicomponent‐regulated COFs with tunable gradient dimensionality for high selectivity and activity electrocatalysis. Compared with the two‐component 2D and 3D model COFs, the 2D/3D framework interlaced COFs with locally irregular dimensions and electronic structures are more practical in optimizing the intrinsic electrode surface reaction and mass transfer. Remarkably, the unsaturated 2D‐inserted 3D TAE‐COF regulates the adsorption mode of OOH* species to supply a favorable dynamic pathway for the H2O2 process, thereby achieving an excellent production rate of 8.50 mol gcat−1 h−1. Moreover, utilizing theoretical calculation and in situ ATR‐FTIR experiment, we found that the central carbon atom of the tetraphenyl‐based unit (site‐1 and site‐6) are potential active sites. This strategy of operating the adsorption ability of reactants with dimensionality‐interconnected building blocks provides an idea for designing durable and efficient electrocatalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Elastic full‐waveform inversion enables the quantitative inversion of multiple subsurface parameters, significantly enhancing the interpretation of subsurface lithology. Simultaneously, with the ongoing advancements in ocean bottom node technology, the application of elastic full‐waveform inversion to marine ocean bottom node data is receiving increasing attention. This is attributed to the capability of ocean bottom node to acquire high‐quality four‐component data. However, elastic full‐waveform inversion of ocean bottom node data typically encounters two challenges: First, the presence of low S‐wave velocity layers in the seabed leads to weak energy of converted S‐waves, resulting in significantly poorer inversion results for S‐wave velocity compared to those for P‐wave velocity; second, the cross‐talk effect of multiple parameters further exacerbates the difficulty in inverting S‐wave velocity. To effectively recover the S‐wave velocity using ocean bottom node data, we modify the S‐wave velocity gradient in conventional elastic full‐waveform inversion to alleviate the impact of cross‐talk from multiple parameters on the inversion of S‐wave velocity. Furthermore, to invert for density parameters, we adopt a two‐stage inversion strategy. In the first stage, P‐wave and S‐wave velocities are updated simultaneously with a single‐step length. Because the initial density model is far from the true one, density is updated using an empirical relationship derived from well‐log data. In the second stage, velocities and density are updated simultaneously with multi‐step length to further refine the models obtained in the first stage. The high effectiveness of the improved elastic full‐waveform inversion is validated by numerical examples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multicomponent seismic technology utilizes the kinematic and dynamic characteristics of reflected P‐waves and converted S‐waves to reduce ambiguity in seismic exploration. The imaging and inversion accuracy of P‐SV‐converted waves are important in determining whether multicomponent seismic exploration can achieve higher exploration accuracy than conventional P‐wave exploration. Pre‐stack inversion of P‐SV‐converted waves requires precise input of P‐SV‐converted wave angle‐domain common‐image gathers. Consequently, the P‐SV‐converted wave angle‐domain common‐image gather extraction accuracy will significantly affect the P‐SV‐converted wave inversion accuracy. However, existing methods for extracting P‐SV‐converted wave angle‐domain common‐image gathers are constrained by issues such as the P‐ and S‐wave crosstalk artefacts, low‐frequency noises and inaccurate calculation of P‐wave incident angles, leading to poor imaging accuracy. We study an angle‐domain cross‐correlation imaging condition and address three key issues based on this condition: the decoupling of P‐ and S‐waves, the separation of up‐going and down‐going waves and the precise calculation of P‐wave incident angles. Our strategies facilitate high‐precision extraction of P‐SV‐converted wave angle‐domain common‐image gathers using elastic wave reverse‐time migration. In this paper, first, we employ the first‐order velocity‐dilatation‐rotation elastic wave equations to decouple P‐ and S‐waves automatically during source and receiver wavefield extrapolations. Second, we calculate the optical flow vectors of P‐ and S‐waves to ensure stable calculations of wave propagation directions. Based on this, we obtain up‐going and down‐going waves of P‐ and S‐waves. Meanwhile, we calculate the incident angle of the source P‐wave using geometric relations. Lastly, we apply the angle‐domain imaging condition to achieve high‐precision extraction of P‐SV‐converted wave angle‐domain common‐image gathers. Model examples demonstrate the effectiveness and advantages of the proposed method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A facile electrochemical synthesis of selenocarbamates from multicomponent reactions of isocyanides, diselenides, and water is developed here. This strategy provides a mild, direct, and complementary approach for synthesizing selenocarbamates in moderate to excellent yields with good substrate tolerance. The simple undivided cell setting with carbon/Pt electrodes proceeded smoothly. A radical pathway was proposed by preliminary mechanistic research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A quasi-particle named plexciton emerges from the hybridization between plasmons and molecular excitons which exhibits characteristic spectral features, such as Fano resonance and Rabi splitting in extinction, scattering, and reflection spectroscopy. However, the understanding of the fluorescence properties in plexcitonic hybrids remains unclear, especially for nonlinear upconverted emissions. In this Letter, we prepared three-component plexcitonic hybrids with two cyanine dyes (Cy3 and Cy5) coupled to Ag nanostructured films and investigated their enhanced nonlinear radiation, including two-photon luminescence (TPL), second-harmonic generation (SHG), and surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS). The plexcitonic hybrids showed a splitting extinction spectrum with five peaks induced by the hybrid of the monomer and dimer excitons in the two cyanine dyes with surface plasmon resonance of the Ag films. Under the laser excitation at 1260 nm, the (Cy3–Cy5)/Ag hybrid had a 6.3-fold enhancement of TPL and a 5.1-fold enhancement of SHG compared to a two-component hybrid of Cy5/Ag. Our experimental results provide valuable insights for designing and manufacturing multicomponent plexcitonic devices with highly efficient nonlinear radiation. The plexcitonic hybrids, characterized by their featured extinction properties and largely enhanced upconverted emission, have great promise for applications in nonlinear optics, quantum information processing, biomedical sensing, and photochemistry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The utilization of natural fibers obtained from leather industrial wastes contributes to a circular economy and aids to the reduction in the usually high loadings of mineral flame-retardant additives employed to impart the flame retardancy in polymer systems. The present work investigates the relationship between viscoelastic properties and flame retardancy of thermoplastic starch multicomponent systems loaded with leather waste, aluminum trihydroxide used as flame-retardant additive, and bentonite clay. Different blending temperatures and rotational speeds during extrusion process are tested for the multicomponent systems. Rheological, morphological, flammability, thermal analysis, and tensile mechanical test are also used to characterize the obtained multicomponent systems. A detailed investigation of the viscoelastic properties through Han, Cole–Cole, and van Gurp–Palmen diagrams indicated that the fibers have to be well dispersed in the polymer matrix forming a network structure and that the material has to exhibit viscoelasticity to a moderate level, i.e., not too viscous and not too elastic as observed in the VGP diagram in order to impart the flame retardancy effect in the multicomponent system. These multicomponent systems with enhanced properties are a promising and sustainable alternative to traditional high-loaded flame-retardant systems taking advantage of the landfill disposal in local areas where leather wastes are a problem the great attention contributing to a circular economy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Frailty reduction and reversal have been addressed successfully among older populations within community settings. However, these findings may not be applicable to residential care settings, largely due to the complex and multidimensional nature of the condition. Relatively, few attempts at frailty prevention exist in residential settings. This review aims to identify and describe best practice models of care for addressing frailty among older populations in residential care settings. This research also sets out to explore the impact of multidisciplinary health service delivery models on health outcomes such as mortality, hospitalisations, quality of life, falls and frailty. Methods A scoping review of the literature was conducted to address the project objectives. Reference lists of included studies, bibliographic databases and the grey literature were systematically searched for literature reporting multidisciplinary, multidimensional models of care for frailty. Results The scoping review found no interventions that met the inclusion criteria. Of the 704 articles screened, 664 were excluded as not relevant. Forty articles were fully assessed, and while no eligible studies were found, relevant data were extracted from 10 near-eligible studies that reported single disciplines or single dimensions rather than a model of care. The physical, nutritional, medicinal, social and cognitive aspects of the near eligible studies have been discussed as playing a key role in frailty reduction or prevention care models. Conclusion This review has identified a paucity of interventions for addressing and reducing frailty in residential care settings. High-quality studies investigating novel models of care for addressing frailty in residential care facilities are required to address this knowledge gap. Similarly, there is a need to develop and validate appropriate screening and assessment tools for frailty in residential care populations. Health service providers and policy-makers should also increase their awareness of frailty as a dynamic and reversible condition. While age is a non-modifiable predictor of frailty, addressing modifiable factors through comprehensive care models may help manage and prevent the physical, social and financial impacts of frailty in the ageing population.

Futsal carries a high risk of injury for players. This systematic review aimed to assess the existing literature on injury prevention strategies for futsal players. The literature was searched using PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus databases from inception to 20 March 2024. Relevant articles were searched using the terms "futsal" AND "injury" AND "prevention". Fourteen studies were included in the review. The review identified several injury prevention strategies with potential benefits for futsal players. Structured warm-up routines were shown to improve balance and eccentric strength and to reduce total, acute, and lower limb injuries. Proprioceptive training methods were suggested to improve joint stability and landing mechanics, which may reduce the risk of injury. Furthermore, multicomponent methods that include components such as core stability and flexibility have shown potential for reducing injury rates in futsal players. Finally, by reducing fatigue and improving movement control, strength training procedures designed to correct muscular imbalances may improve performance, which may ultimately minimize the risk of injury. This systematic review demonstrates the potential benefits of different injury prevention strategies for futsal players. The combination of several strategies, such as proprioceptive training, multicomponent programs, warm-up routines, and strength training specifically designed to address muscular imbalances, appears promising. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Digitally delivered weight loss programmes can provide a convenient, potentially cheaper, and scalable treatment option for people who may need to lose weight. However, outcomes are often inferior to in-person interventions in the long-term. This trial will use principles from the Multiphase Optimisation Strategy (MOST) framework to test whether it can enhance the effectiveness of a commercial digital behavioural weight loss programme. This trial aims to identify an optimised combination of four intervention components to enhance weight loss over a 24-week period. We will also explore which components contribute to improvements in participant retention and engagement with the programme. Methods: Approximately 1400 adults with a BMI > 21 kg/m2 will be enrolled and randomised to one of 16 experimental conditions in a 24 factorial cluster design. The trial will test four intervention components: an introductory video call with the health coach, drop-in webchat sessions with the health coach, goal setting statements, and food diary review and feedback. All participants will receive the core digital behavioural weight loss programme and up to four new intervention components. Participation in the trial will last for 24 weeks. The primary outcome will be weight change at 16 weeks. Other outcomes, measured at 4, 16, and 24 weeks, include programme drop-out and engagement (number of interactions with the three main app functions). Fidelity and acceptability will be assessed using data on component adherence and self-report questionnaires. Decision-making for the enhanced programme will be based on components that contribute to at least a minimal improvement in weight loss, defined as ≥ 0.75kg, alone or in combination with other components. Discussion: The factorial design is an efficient way to test the efficacy of behavioural components alone, or in combination, to improve the effectiveness of digital weight loss programmes. This trial will test the implementation of the MOST framework in an industry setting, using routinely collected data, which may provide a better way to refine and evaluate these types of interventions in a model of continuous service improvement. Trial registration: Trial registration: ISRCTN, ISRCTN14407868. Registered 5 January 2024, 10.1186/ISRCTN14407868. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Detailed knowledge of the subsurface elastic properties might provide much‐needed insight into the subduction‐zone structure and the estimation of reservoir parameters. Compressional and shear wave velocities can be inverted by elastic full‐waveform inversion using multicomponent ocean‐bottom seismometer data. However, this process is computationally intensive, requiring massive, repeated simulations scaling with the number of sources. Although source–receiver reciprocity can streamline elastic full‐waveform inversion, it cannot be applied by directly interchanging the positions of sources and ocean‐bottom seismometers. To reduce the computational cost, we develop a source–receiver reciprocal elastic full‐waveform inversion, in which the reciprocity in multicomponent data can be accomplished by transforming the data matching from the original geometry to a specific form under the reciprocal geometry. This approach significantly reduces computational costs from twice the number of sources, as seen in conventional elastic full‐waveform inversion, to a scale with the count of ocean‐bottom seismometers. The tests on synthetic data verify that the proposed reciprocal elastic full‐waveform inversion maintains accuracy while improving computational efficiency, and further application on the field data from East China Sea also showcases the efficiency of the proposed method, resulting in a speed‐up of 10 times. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A multicomponent Kröhnke reaction route toward 2‐trifluoromethyl pyridines from reaction of chalcones with easily available and stable 1‐(3,3,3‐trifluoro‐2‐oxopropyl)pyridin‐1‐ium bromide and ammonium acetate is reported. The reaction is found to be general with a range of substituted chalcones, and the applicability of the methodology in gram scale is demonstrated. Preliminary results suggest that this transformation is initiated by 1,4‐Michael addition, followed by inter‐ and intramolecular nucleophilic addition, and elimination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sarcopenia is defined by the presence of decreased skeletal muscle mass, strength, and functionality in older people. Multicomponent interventions represent an alternative to non-pharmacological treatment for preventing disease progression. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of a multicomponent intervention approach in women at risk of sarcopenia. Methods: A quasi-experimental pilot study of 12 weeks was conducted, with 24 sessions of dancing and resistance exercises and 12 sessions of nutritional education. The outcomes were changes in muscle mass, grip strength, gait speed, and body composition. The project was registered on Clinical Trials: NCT06038500 (14 September 2023). Results: Twelve women aged 55–75 years participated in this study; after the intervention, changes were found in the following variables: grip strength, from 18.70 (17.98–19.23) at baseline to 21.57 (20.67–23.16) kg (p = 0.002); gait speed, from 0.95 (0.81–1.18) at baseline to 1.34 (1.20–1.47) m/s (p = 0.003); and hip circumference, from 99.75 (94.75–110.37) at baseline to 97.65 (93.92–109.50) cm (p = 0.023). Other measurements that appeared without changes were appendicular skeletal muscle mass, from 21.17 (18.58–22.33) at baseline to 20.77 (18.31–22.39) kg (p = 0.875), and the appendicular skeletal muscle mass index, from 8.64 (8.08–9.35) at baseline to 8.81 (7.91–9.38) kg/m2 (p = 0.875) after the intervention. Conclusions: The three-month multicomponent intervention in women at risk of sarcopenia improved their grip strength and gait speed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Frailty reduction and reversal have been addressed successfully among older populations within community settings. However, these findings may not be applicable to residential care settings, largely due to the complex and multidimensional nature of the condition. Relatively, few attempts at frailty prevention exist in residential settings. This review aims to identify and describe best practice models of care for addressing frailty among older populations in residential care settings. This research also sets out to explore the impact of multidisciplinary health service delivery models on health outcomes such as mortality, hospitalisations, quality of life, falls and frailty. Methods: A scoping review of the literature was conducted to address the project objectives. Reference lists of included studies, bibliographic databases and the grey literature were systematically searched for literature reporting multidisciplinary, multidimensional models of care for frailty. Results: The scoping review found no interventions that met the inclusion criteria. Of the 704 articles screened, 664 were excluded as not relevant. Forty articles were fully assessed, and while no eligible studies were found, relevant data were extracted from 10 near-eligible studies that reported single disciplines or single dimensions rather than a model of care. The physical, nutritional, medicinal, social and cognitive aspects of the near eligible studies have been discussed as playing a key role in frailty reduction or prevention care models. Conclusion: This review has identified a paucity of interventions for addressing and reducing frailty in residential care settings. High-quality studies investigating novel models of care for addressing frailty in residential care facilities are required to address this knowledge gap. Similarly, there is a need to develop and validate appropriate screening and assessment tools for frailty in residential care populations. Health service providers and policy-makers should also increase their awareness of frailty as a dynamic and reversible condition. While age is a non-modifiable predictor of frailty, addressing modifiable factors through comprehensive care models may help manage and prevent the physical, social and financial impacts of frailty in the ageing population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The synthesis of heterocyclic compounds is very interesting topic among synthetic chemists because these compounds are widely used in various fields, especially in medicinal chemistry. In this category, polyhydroquinoline derivatives have attracted profound attention among synthetic chemists because these derivatives are used as anti-virus, anti-tumor, anti-fungal, anti-bacterial and anti-cancer agents. Therefore, the design of novel, ecofriendly and efficient catalytic systems for their preparation is an important challenge in organic synthesis. In this article, we designed and constructed a novel and environmentally benign solid catalyst was fabricated by grafting tetra dentate picolinic acid-Cu complex active species onto the 3,4-Diaminobenzoic acid functionalized Fe3O4 support [Fe3O4@DABA-PA-CuBr2] for the synthesis of polyhydroquinolines under ecofriendly conditions. The results of these experiments clearly show that this catalytic system is very efficient in the synthesis of polyhydroquinolines because the desired products were synthesized with high to excellent yields. Finally, the reusability investigation indicated that the synthesized catalyst possessed sufficient recyclability of up to eight times with negligible drop in the catalytic activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A wealth of experimental and observational evidence suggests that faces have become increasingly important in the communication system of primates over evolutionary time and that both the static and moveable aspects of faces convey considerable information. Therefore, whenever there is a visual component to any multicomponent signal the face is potentially relevant. However, the role of the face is not always considered in primate multicomponent communication research. We review the literature and make a case for greater focus on the face going forward. We propose that the face can be overlooked for two main reasons: first, due to methodological difficulty. Examination of multicomponent signals in primates is difficult, so scientists tend to examine a limited number of signals in combination. Detailed examination of the subtle and dynamic components of facial signals is particularly hard to achieve in studies of primates. Second, due to a common assumption that the face contains "emotional" content. A priori categorisation of facial behavior as "emotional" ignores the potentially communicative and predictive information present in the face that might contribute to signals. In short, we argue that the face is central to multicomponent signals (and also many multimodal signals) and suggest future directions for investigating this phenomenon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We examine the value of the nine‐component seismic survey by generating the Kirchhoff depth migration images of compressional wave (P‐wave), converted wave (PS‐wave) and horizontally polarized shear wave (SH shear wave) data simulated from the SEAM II Barrett unconventional model. We first utilize full waveform inversion to obtain a P‐wave velocity model from P‐wave data and an S‐wave velocity model from SH‐wave data. Both P‐wave and SH‐wave data are generated with the maximum frequency of 20 Hz while assuming that the subsurface is isotropic. To implement full waveform inversion, we use a two‐dimensional time‐domain finite‐difference method and the L2 norm to measure the data misfit. We use both refractions and reflections in P‐ and SH‐wave data to reconstruct the P‐ and S‐wave velocity models from the surface to the reservoir. The inverted P‐ and S‐wave velocities contain the main features of the model (e.g., major faults and channels) but have some difficulties in estimating high‐frequency velocity variation within the first 300‐m depth of the model due to the frequency constraint. We then use the inverted P‐ and S‐wave velocities to generate Kirchhoff depth migration gathers and images from the P‐, PS‐ and SH‐wave data. The flat P‐ and SH‐wave common‐image offset gathers suggest that SH‐ and P‐wave full waveform inversion can generate adequate S‐ and P‐wave velocities for migration. Flat PS‐wave gathers and the clear PS‐wave migration image are also obtained using the inverted P‐ and S‐wave velocities simultaneously. This result indicates that obtaining S‐wave velocities from SH‐wave data can aid PS‐wave data processing and imaging. Moreover, the SH‐wave images and S‐wave images of the radial component provide better delineation of fault planes and small‐scale geobodies within the reservoir since the wavelength of the S‐wave is smaller compared to P‐wave when similar frequency ranges are recorded. Therefore, our study shows that S‐wave velocities can be successfully constructed by the two‐dimensional full waveform inversion application of the SH‐wave data. The subsequent imaging of multicomponent seismic data improves the delineation of certain unconventional reservoirs compared to the traditional P‐wave imaging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The source vessel noise is a very common noise type in offshore seismic surveys. The state‐of‐art deep learning‐based methods provide an end‐to‐end framework for seismic data denoising. The denoising performance of a pretrained network is, however, highly dependent on the completeness of the training set. When training a denoising network with only field data, especially for attenuating erratic noise, it is hard to obtain a noise‐free data as the training target for the network. Transfer learning, by combining the synthetic and field data, is an alternative solution for improving the generalization capabilities of the network, although being able to model such erratic noise represents also a challenge. Although the denoising results by traditional methods are not accurate enough for creating a complete training set, the features in residual noise by subtracting the denoised data from noisy data are enough for the network to learn. Considering the aforementioned factors, we develop a deep learning‐based workflow for the attenuation of the erratic source vessel noise from ocean bottom node 4C data. Instead of using denoising results directly, we use the conventional methods to extract noise and add them to the high signal‐to‐ratio region of the field data. The created noisy dataset is different from the original noisy data in noise regions; thus, the pretrained network can also be used for predicting the same original data. The denoising results of synthetic and field data all show that even the network is trained on a noisy labelled dataset, we still can obtain high signal‐to‐noise ratio denoising result. Besides, when compare with the results by filtering‐based methods, our proposed method can attenuate the vessel noise more effectively and preserve the near offsets reflections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As one of wavefield separation methods in elastic reverse time migration, the decoupled wave equation succeeds to separate the particle velocity of P‐ and S‐wave without mode crosstalk. However, it fails to decouple the stress of P‐ and S‐wave which encounters with the problem of crosstalk. To overcome the crosstalk, the paper has proposed the quasi‐stress equations to decouple the stress tensor wavefields of P‐ and S‐wave based on the decoupled stress–strain relationship. Because P‐ and S‐wave stress wavefields are second‐order tensors, different from the imaging method of vector decoupled particle velocity wavefields, a double dot product imaging condition is proposed to obtain scalar images. Based on the total source‐stress tensor wavefields and separated receiver‐stress tensor wavefields, we obtain the scalar images of quasi‐PP and quasi‐PS from the stress information by the double dot product imaging condition. Several numerical examples are evaluated to demonstrate the effectiveness of the separation of P‐ and S‐wave stress and advantage of the proposed imaging condition from the second‐order stress tensor wavefields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Flexible organic crystals are emerging as a potential candidate for smart materials and have aroused great interest over the past decade. In view of multicomponent supramolecular synthesis with a distinct advantage over single‐component approach on the control of molecular arrangements and physicochemical properties, we take note of various multicomponent flexible organic crystals in the range from organic co‐crystals, supramolecular salts, solvates, doping organic crystals to solid solution crystals, showing a great diversity of supramolecular architectures such as one‐dimensional columns, two‐dimensional layer packing, and three‐dimensional interlocked structures. Some of them serve as promising multifunctional materials with both flexibility and photoelectric properties such as fluorescence, optical waveguide, and ferroelectricity. In this review, we focus on the packing structures of multicomponent flexible organic crystals and their related mechanical properties, highlight typical research works, and point out the main possible directions that remain to be developed in this field. From the perspectives of crystal engineering and supramolecular chemistry, the flexible crystals outlined here should offer helpful information for further design and investigation on the elusive class of mechanically compliant crystalline compounds.

Abstract Background Preoperative frailty is associated with increased risk of adverse outcomes. In 2017, McIsaac and colleagues’ systematic review found that few interventions improved outcomes in this population and evidence was low-quality. We aimed to systematically review the evidence for multicomponent perioperative interventions in frail patients that has emerged since McIsaac et al.’s review. Methods PUBMED, EMBASE, Cochrane, and CINAHL databases were searched for English-language studies published since January 1, 2016, that evaluated multicomponent perioperative interventions in patients identified as frail. Quality was assessed using the National Institute of Health Quality Assessment Tool. A narrative synthesis of the extracted data was conducted. Results Of 2835 articles screened, five studies were included, all of which were conducted in elective oncologic gastrointestinal surgical populations. Four hundred and thirteen patients were included across the five studies and the mean/median age ranged from 70.1 to 87.0 years. Multicomponent interventions were all applied in the preoperative period. Two studies also applied interventions postoperatively. All interventions addressed exercise and nutritional domains with variability in timing, delivery, and adherence. Multicomponent interventions were associated with reduced postoperative complications, functional deterioration, length of stay, and mortality. Four studies reported on patient-centred outcomes. The quality of evidence was fair. Conclusions This systematic review provides evidence that frail surgical patients undergoing elective oncologic gastrointestinal surgery may benefit from targeted multicomponent perioperative interventions. Yet methodological issues and substantial heterogeneity of the interventions precludes drawing clear conclusions regarding the optimal model of care. Larger, low risk of bias studies are needed to evaluate optimal intervention delivery, effectiveness in other populations, implementation in health care settings and ascertain outcomes of importance for frail patients and their carers.

Abstract Background Setting healthy lifestyle habits during the formative years of childhood is critical as habits can track to adulthood and help prevent obesity and chronic disease risks in later life. While multicomponent interventions have been shown to be effective in changing the lifestyle behaviours of children, there is a limited understanding of the feasibility of such interventions in primary schools in Singapore. A multiphase mixed method study was conducted to develop and examine the feasibility of a theory-based multicomponent school-based intervention—Promoting hEatlthy Eating and Active Lifestyle (PEDAL). Methods Underpinned by Kincaid’s ideation model, the PEDAL intervention was developed to increase fruit and vegetable consumption and decrease sedentary behaviours among children. This study consists of three phases. Phase 1 details the development of PEDAL, which consists of four components: (A) a series of interactive health education lessons, (B) actionable home activities to support habit formation, (C) parental/guardian engagement, and (D) optimising the school environment. In Phase 2, components A and B of PEDAL were implemented in two public, co-educational primary schools among Primary 5 students (aged 10–12 years) in Singapore. Data was collected quantitatively using questionnaires and qualitatively using focus group discussions (FGDs) with students and teachers. The feasibility dimensions of components A and B, including recruitment capability, data collection, social validity, and practicality were examined, and ideation on healthy eating and physical activity was explored. In Phase 3, the full PEDAL intervention was pilot-tested in two other public, co-education primary schools with the same target population, using a concurrent mixed method quasi-experimental study design. Feasibility dimensions and potential effectiveness of the intervention will be assessed. Discussion This study will provide insights into the feasibility of PEDAL and inform its refinement. Findings from the pilot test will guide the planning of a larger-scale definitive trial. Trial registration Registered with ISRCTN registry (ISRCTN16114046) on 16 October 2022.

Rare earth (RE) silicate environmental barrier coatings (EBCs), with superior physicochemical properties and resistance to hot water-oxygen and calcium-magnesium-aluminosilicate (CMAS) corrosion, are ideal candidates for safeguarding the next-generation aviation engines made of SiC ceramic matrix composites (CMCs). However, improving the corrosion resistance of RE silicates remains a critical challenge due to severe environmental degradation at 1500 °C. Herein, by doping multiple RE elements and designing high entropy formulations, researchers found that multicomponent RE silicates could establish stable lattice structures, phase compositions, and reaction products while impeding the infiltration of corrosive agents. This paper reviews the modulation of their phase stability, physicochemical properties, wettability, and corrosion behaviors. It looks at how state-of-the-art optimization solutions of multicomponent and high entropy doping strategies affected corrosion resistant behaviors. In conclusion, the authors suggest further studies to optimize the corrosion resistance of multicomponent RE silicates and highlight the importance of integrating multicomponent doping with high-throughput and other optimization methods, thereby unlocking an array of possibilities for advancing RE silicate EBCs.

Abstract Background Adaptation is a key strategy to extend the reach of evidence-based interventions to prevent violence in new populations, but there is a dearth of practical case examples. The Good School Toolkit was developed by Ugandan NGO Raising Voices for use in primary schools (GST-P). We describe our systematic approach to adapting the GST-P for use in secondary schools in Uganda, and reflect on the utility of the process as well as limitations of existing adaptation frameworks. Methods We adapted the GST-P in four phases, which included: I) clarifying the logic model and core intervention components using a streamlined process; II) conducting formative research (cross-sectional survey, focus groups, etc.) to understand the new population; III) selecting and preparing new intervention components and modifying existing intervention components; and IV) pretesting new intervention components with teachers and students in Uganda. Results We identified core components using a logic model. Formative research showed results largely in line with our apriori hypotheses. Teacher violence remained highly prevalent in secondary versus primary schools (> 65% of secondary students reported past year exposure), while peer violence significantly increased (secondary = 52% vs. primary girls = 40%, P

Background: Preoperative frailty is associated with increased risk of adverse outcomes. In 2017, McIsaac and colleagues' systematic review found that few interventions improved outcomes in this population and evidence was low-quality. We aimed to systematically review the evidence for multicomponent perioperative interventions in frail patients that has emerged since McIsaac et al.'s review. Methods: PUBMED, EMBASE, Cochrane, and CINAHL databases were searched for English-language studies published since January 1, 2016, that evaluated multicomponent perioperative interventions in patients identified as frail. Quality was assessed using the National Institute of Health Quality Assessment Tool. A narrative synthesis of the extracted data was conducted. Results: Of 2835 articles screened, five studies were included, all of which were conducted in elective oncologic gastrointestinal surgical populations. Four hundred and thirteen patients were included across the five studies and the mean/median age ranged from 70.1 to 87.0 years. Multicomponent interventions were all applied in the preoperative period. Two studies also applied interventions postoperatively. All interventions addressed exercise and nutritional domains with variability in timing, delivery, and adherence. Multicomponent interventions were associated with reduced postoperative complications, functional deterioration, length of stay, and mortality. Four studies reported on patient-centred outcomes. The quality of evidence was fair. Conclusions: This systematic review provides evidence that frail surgical patients undergoing elective oncologic gastrointestinal surgery may benefit from targeted multicomponent perioperative interventions. Yet methodological issues and substantial heterogeneity of the interventions precludes drawing clear conclusions regarding the optimal model of care. Larger, low risk of bias studies are needed to evaluate optimal intervention delivery, effectiveness in other populations, implementation in health care settings and ascertain outcomes of importance for frail patients and their carers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study demonstrates the successful synthesis of sulfosalicylic acid-functionalized silica-coated magnetic nanoparticles, referred to as MNPs-SSA, as a reusable heterogeneous acid catalyst through a straightforward process. The material structures were thoroughly validated using a diverse set of spectroscopic, microscopic, and magnetic techniques, such as FT-IR, EDX, XRD, FE-SEM, TEM, TGA, and VSM, ensuring comprehensive examination and confirmation. The catalytic efficiency of this innovative material was evaluated using the one-pot, three-component Biginelli reaction under solvent-free conditions. The enhanced reaction conditions described here facilitate the synthesis of a wide variety of substituted dihydropyrimidinones, resulting in high purity and excellent yields in a short reaction time. Furthermore, the catalyst exhibited remarkable thermal stability and could be easily recovered from the reaction mixture using an external magnetic field, enabling multiple consecutive uses without a significant decrease in its catalytic efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Setting healthy lifestyle habits during the formative years of childhood is critical as habits can track to adulthood and help prevent obesity and chronic disease risks in later life. While multicomponent interventions have been shown to be effective in changing the lifestyle behaviours of children, there is a limited understanding of the feasibility of such interventions in primary schools in Singapore. A multiphase mixed method study was conducted to develop and examine the feasibility of a theory-based multicomponent school-based intervention—Promoting hEatlthy Eating and Active Lifestyle (PEDAL). Methods: Underpinned by Kincaid's ideation model, the PEDAL intervention was developed to increase fruit and vegetable consumption and decrease sedentary behaviours among children. This study consists of three phases. Phase 1 details the development of PEDAL, which consists of four components: (A) a series of interactive health education lessons, (B) actionable home activities to support habit formation, (C) parental/guardian engagement, and (D) optimising the school environment. In Phase 2, components A and B of PEDAL were implemented in two public, co-educational primary schools among Primary 5 students (aged 10–12 years) in Singapore. Data was collected quantitatively using questionnaires and qualitatively using focus group discussions (FGDs) with students and teachers. The feasibility dimensions of components A and B, including recruitment capability, data collection, social validity, and practicality were examined, and ideation on healthy eating and physical activity was explored. In Phase 3, the full PEDAL intervention was pilot-tested in two other public, co-education primary schools with the same target population, using a concurrent mixed method quasi-experimental study design. Feasibility dimensions and potential effectiveness of the intervention will be assessed. Discussion: This study will provide insights into the feasibility of PEDAL and inform its refinement. Findings from the pilot test will guide the planning of a larger-scale definitive trial. Trial registration: Registered with ISRCTN registry (ISRCTN16114046) on 16 October 2022. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

By using easily accessible heterocyclic enamines, acetaldehyde (or formaldehyde) and primary amines as suitable precursors, a water-assisted three-component synthesis of new 3-oxothiazolo[3,2-c]pyridimines has been efficiently achieved in mild and semi-aqueous medium. All the cyclization reactions under optimized and catalyst-free conditions furnish the target compounds in 40–100% yields. Although cyclizations with arylamines in the presence of formaldehyde yield moderate to good yields, certain cyclizations involving aryl amines in the presence of acetaldehyde do not result in any product formation. Structural characterization of all the products were performed by means of FT-IR,1H and 13C NMR and HRMS analyses. Besides, some of the products demonstrated bacteriostatic effects in the antibacterial study conducted against S. aureus and S. epidermidis bacteria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The modeling of reactive transport through porous media is a challenging numerical problem. Methods of solution have leveraged the stoichiometry of chemical reactions to address the transport of multiple aqueous species by expressing them in terms of an equivalent, linearly independent variable (component). This approach effectively decouples advection‐dispersion transport from the source terms associated with equilibrium reactions. A common assumption found in the literature is that all species disperse with the same transport coefficients. Recent experimental studies have discussed that this is not necessarily the case, particularly for transverse mixing, which is limited by the species‐specific molecular diffusion. This article presents a formulation of multicomponent reactive transport that takes into account the differences in dispersion coefficients. These differences lead to a nonlinear transport equation for the components, from where an expression for evaluating reaction rates is derived. It is demonstrated that this expression simplifies to the well‐known equations assuming the same dispersion for all species. Numerical simulations of a binary chemical system under diffusion‐ and advection‐dominated transport conditions are used to evaluate the influence that differential transport coefficients have upon the output of chemical reactions. Results indicate that differences in transport coefficients are particularly relevant when the chemical signature of the input solutions is not strongly dominated by one of the species in the component. Unexpectedly, this opens the possibility to mineral dissolution coexisting with precipitation during the mixing of two waters in equilibrium. This phenomenon can be explained by nonlinear mixing processes proportional to the differences in transport coefficients. Key Points: New formulation of multicomponent reactive transport with species‐specific dispersion properties and nonlinear transport for the componentsA general expression for evaluating reaction rates is derived considering the transport properties of all speciesDifferences in coefficients can lead to dissolution coexisting with precipitation for a equilibrium binary reaction in dilute systems [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Living cells are complex, nonequilibrium supramolecular systems capable of independently and/or cooperatively integrating multiple bio‐supramolecules to execute intricate physiological functions that cannot be accomplished by individual biomolecules. These biological design strategies offer valuable insights for the development of synthetic supramolecular systems with spatially controlled hierarchical structures, which, importantly, exhibit cell‐like responses and functions. The next grand challenge in supramolecular chemistry is to control the organization of multiple types of supramolecules in a single system, thus integrating the functions of these supramolecules in an orthogonal and/or cooperative manner. In this perspective, the recent progress in constructing multicomponent supramolecular soft materials through the hybridization of supramolecules, such as self‐assembled nanofibers/gels and coacervates, with other functional molecules, including polymer gels and enzymes is highlighted. Moreover, results show that these materials exhibit bioinspired responses to stimuli, such as bidirectional rheological responses of supramolecular double‐network hydrogels, temporal stimulus pattern‐dependent responses of synthetic coacervates, and 3D hydrogel patterning in response to reaction–diffusion processes are presented. Autonomous active soft materials with cell‐like responses and spatially controlled structures hold promise for diverse applications, including soft robotics with directional motion, point‐of‐care disease diagnosis, and tissue regeneration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, we study the phase behavior of two polydisperse hydrocolloids: dextran and polyethylene oxide. We combine the data on the experimental osmometric virial coefficients of the pure components with the experimental critical point of their aqueous mixture and the size distribution of each component from a previously published study in order to predict the phase boundary, spinodal, and fractionation upon demixing of the polydisperse mixture. We compare the results of our calculation to the experimental phase diagram. Our method reveals a better correspondence with the experimental binary phase behavior than modeling each component as monodisperse. The polydispersity of the hydrocolloids causes the phase separation boundary to shift to lower concentrations and the miscibility region to decrease and change its shape from a rotated U-shape to a W-shape. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Schisandra chinensis is a functional fruit with tonic effect and was widely used by traditional Chinese medicine for treatment and health care. The quality of Schisandra chinensis fruit may vary by different storage condition. In this study, the influence of ambient temperature, humidity, packaging materials and period of storage on the quality of Schisandra chinensis fruits were investigated. The contents of main active components lignans and organic acids were simultaneously determined by ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled to quadrupole electrostatic field orbitrap high resolution mass spectrometry (UPLC Orbitrap HRMS). The antioxidant activity was determined using DPPH radical scavenging capacity, ABTS+ inhibition rate and FRAP value. The correlation of multicomponent and antioxidant activity was analyzed by grey relevance analysis. Taking the changes of multicomponent and antioxidant activity as investigation index, Schisandra chinensis fruits under different storage conditions was comprehensively evaluated. Schisandrol A, malic acid, sorbic acid, schizandrin A, schizandrin B, and schisandrol B were the main effective components of antioxidant activity. Ambient temperature at 5 °C and humidity at 40 % were more suitable for Schisandra chinensis fruits and kraft paper bag was better packaging material. Do not exceed 1 year was the effective storage period. For the safety evaluation, no aflatoxin was detected within the storage period of 2 years, demonstrated the storage was satisfactory. This study provided a reference for the high-quality storage and standardized operating procedures for storage of Schisandra chinensis fruits.

Bicyclic ortho-amino carbonitriles (tetrahydronaphthalenes) are crucial in their role to develop other heterocyclic compounds such as dicyanoanilines which can be used in optical electronic (optronic) devices. Tetrahydronaphthalenes can be obtained via the four-component reaction of malononitrile (2 equivalents), a cyclic ketone and an aldehyde. On the other hand, 5,6-substituted-2-amino-3-cyanopyridines (tetrahydroquinolines) have been found to be potent anti-cancer, anti-hypertensive, anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory agents. The synthesis of such compounds is directly linked by the single reactant replacement (SRR) technique because they derive from the combination of malononitrile, a cyclic ketone, an aldehyde and ammonium acetate as a nitrogen source. In this study, the activity of the heterogeneous metal-free catalyst DABCO supported on Amberlyst® 15 was explored in relation to the synthesis of both mentioned scaffolds. To the best of our knowledge, there are no instances in the literature where this has been achieved using the same catalyst, furthermore a novel successful DABCO-Amberlyst®15 catalysed one-pot sequential combination of multicomponent reactions (MCR2) was also reported.

The stability of high-entropy alloys, like equiatomic and non-equiatomic micro- and nanostructural ones, is relevant when creating stable multicomponent compositions with improved performance. The implementation of such materials is possible by mechanical alloying, magnetron sputtering, as well as by the electrochemical method using the «top-down and bottom-to-top» strategy at moderate temperatures < 200°C with controlled production of both micro-from 0,5 to 20 μm and nanoscale high-entropy alloys with particles from 2 to 10 nm. The well-studied «structure-property» relationship for classical alloys is not yet completely clear for nano-high-entropy alloys, but it is obvious that it is possible to form excellent mechanical characteristics by selecting chemical compositions and a special heat treatment regime. Regarding the chemical composition, requirements are imposed both on the main components and alloying additives. Preliminarily, not only compositions are selected, but also methods for the synthesis of high-entropy alloys, including ab initio (density functional theory), neural network prediction, and classical molecular dynamic simulation with possible conditions for the formation of model nano- high-entropy alloy samples, as well as derivative options. The resulting descriptions are compared with real methods of high-entropy alloys synthesis, for example, exposure to various synthetic media.

The principles of designing high-entropy alloys related to the selection of elements are analyzed. When selecting elements, a parametric approach is used, including chemical and topological parameters. The main chemical parameter is the enthalpy of mixing of elements, the main topological parameter is the atomic radius. It is emphasized that the use of modified atomic radii (which take into account the local electronic environment) better predicts the formation of either amorphous or crystalline high-entropy alloys. Four main effects that determine the properties of high-entropy alloys are considered: the high entropy effect, the lattice distortion effect, the delayed diffusion effect, and the «cocktail» effect. Obtaining nanosized high-entropy materials based on high-entropy alloys is a new promising direction that allows one to significantly expand their areas of application related to energy (catalysis, energy storage, etc.), nanoelectronics, etc. The article analyzes some methods for the synthesis of nanosized high-entropy alloys and materials based on them. basis, developed as catalysts. The improved performance over conventional catalysts is explained in terms of the effects and features specific to multicomponent systems.

Abstract Background Family caregiver interventions are essential to support dementia caregiving. However, such interventions are typically complex and consist of multiple components. Existing evidence rarely delineates the effectiveness and interactions between individual components. To optimise intervention, we adopt the multiphase optimisation strategy (MOST) to test the implementation fidelity and determine the effect of each component and the interactions between each component and the corresponding outcome. Methods A prospective, assessor-blinded, randomised clinical trial with fractional factorial design using the MOST principle. Two hundred fifty family dementia caregivers will be randomised to one of 16 experimental conditions in a fractional factorial design involving six intervention components: (1) dementia and caregiving education; (2) self-care skills; (3) behavioural symptom management; (4) behavioural activation; (5) modified mindfulness-based cognitive therapy; and (6) support group. The first one is the core component, and the five remaining will be examined. Physical health, caregiver burden, stress, psychological well-being, anxiety and depressive symptoms, and social support will be assessed over the 12-month study period. Following the intention-to-treat principle, linear mixed models and regression analyses will be used to examine the specific effect of the five components and their two-way interactions to propose the most effective combination. Discussion This is the first study adopting the multiphase optimisation strategy to identify the most active and engaging components of a psychological intervention for caregivers of patients with dementia. In view that dementia caregiver interventions are increasingly diversified and complex, such knowledge is important to maximise the intervention efficacy and allow the intervention to be implemented within an efficient timeframe and dosage. The optimisation of caregiver support interventions is critical to enhance the health outcomes of caregivers and care recipients, thereby, delaying possible institutionalisation and reducing the costs of long-term dementia care. Trial registration This study was retrospectively registered in the WHO Primary Registry – Chinese Clinical Trials Registry (ChiCTR2300071235). (Protocol date 30/10/2020; version identifier 2020–2021-0045). Registered on 9 May, 2023. Reporting method SPIRIT guideline was followed. Patient or public contribution No patient or public involvement.

The step-flow and spiral growth of a multicomponent crystal are considered from vapors, taking into account the different possible Schwoebel barriers for each component within the Burton-Cabrera-Frank model. Analytic expressions for the final growth rates of such a multicomponent crystal are determined while considering the kinetic properties of all the individual components and growth conditions. Possible instabilities inherent in the presence of several components are studied, and a stability criterion for the multicomponent case is proposed. It is shown that, in certain cases, nucleation of nanoislands of pure components behind the moving steps can initiate, significantly distorting the growth process. The criterion for the occurrence of such an unstable regime is found. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Family caregiver interventions are essential to support dementia caregiving. However, such interventions are typically complex and consist of multiple components. Existing evidence rarely delineates the effectiveness and interactions between individual components. To optimise intervention, we adopt the multiphase optimisation strategy (MOST) to test the implementation fidelity and determine the effect of each component and the interactions between each component and the corresponding outcome. Methods: A prospective, assessor-blinded, randomised clinical trial with fractional factorial design using the MOST principle. Two hundred fifty family dementia caregivers will be randomised to one of 16 experimental conditions in a fractional factorial design involving six intervention components: (1) dementia and caregiving education; (2) self-care skills; (3) behavioural symptom management; (4) behavioural activation; (5) modified mindfulness-based cognitive therapy; and (6) support group. The first one is the core component, and the five remaining will be examined. Physical health, caregiver burden, stress, psychological well-being, anxiety and depressive symptoms, and social support will be assessed over the 12-month study period. Following the intention-to-treat principle, linear mixed models and regression analyses will be used to examine the specific effect of the five components and their two-way interactions to propose the most effective combination. Discussion: This is the first study adopting the multiphase optimisation strategy to identify the most active and engaging components of a psychological intervention for caregivers of patients with dementia. In view that dementia caregiver interventions are increasingly diversified and complex, such knowledge is important to maximise the intervention efficacy and allow the intervention to be implemented within an efficient timeframe and dosage. The optimisation of caregiver support interventions is critical to enhance the health outcomes of caregivers and care recipients, thereby, delaying possible institutionalisation and reducing the costs of long-term dementia care. Trial registration: This study was retrospectively registered in the WHO Primary Registry – Chinese Clinical Trials Registry (ChiCTR2300071235). (Protocol date 30/10/2020; version identifier 2020–2021-0045). Registered on 9 May, 2023. Reporting method: SPIRIT guideline was followed. Patient or public contribution: No patient or public involvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, a new type of multicomponent nanostructures is introduced by forming interpenetrating networks of two different nanomaterials. In detail, gel networks from semiconductor nanorods are interpenetrated by Au nanowires. Two different types of gelling agents, namely S2− and Yb3+, are employed to trigger the network formation. The structural and electrochemical properties of the resulting materials are discussed. (Photo)electrochemical measurements are performed on the structures to compare the materials in terms of their conductivity as well as their efficiency in converting photonic energy to electrical energy. The new type of CdSe/CdS:Au nanostructure gelled with S2− shows one order of magnitude higher photocurrent than the system gelled with Yb3+. Moreover, the introduction of Au nanowires exhibit a photocurrent which is two orders of magnitudes higher than in samples without Au nanowires. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study describes an efficient and convenient one-pot multicomponent, microwave-assisted synthesis of polysubstituted 1H-imidazoles in good yields under mild reaction conditions. The procedure uses inexpensive, nontoxic, and reusable Amberlite IR120(H) as a catalyst. The new method exhibits a broad tolerance for diverse structural moieties, thereby demonstrating the robustness and applicability of the synthetic method. Further synthesized polysubstituted-1H-imidazoles exhibited moderate to good activity against bacterial strains under study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Social positioning theory, or an account of the human individual that it grounds, qualifies as a quantum social theory. This is an assessment that I explain and defend in the paper. It is of interest in that, in a world where increasing numbers are seeking to construct quantum social theories, it serves to help demonstrate that this goal can be achieved without giving up on meeting criteria like explanatory intelligibility or power or discarding real‐world notions like human (and other) entities. As it turns out, a central feature of the account defended and a core element of the 'standard' interpretation of quantum mechanics are found to stand in an interesting, unanticipated and suggestive relation to each other. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glass transition can cause the formation of drying cracks in different component of maize (Zea mays) at different drying stages, but the influence of the mechanism is unknown. This work aimed to study the effect of glass transition on crack formation in different components. It was found that the differences in moisture content, temperature distribution, and glass transition temperature of the components can cause different glass transition processes in the components at different drying stages with 55 °C hot air. The temperatures of the pericarp and germ were found to be higher and lower, respectively, than corresponding the glass transition temperature, so remained in a single state, resulting in the absence of cracks. Cracks generated in the hard endosperm and then extended to soft endosperm, which was consistent with the glass transition of the endosperm. At the preheating stage, the endosperm had no cracks. After the main drying stage, the stress crack index (SCI) of hard and soft endosperm were 160.0 and 65.3, respectively. After the cooling stage, the SCI of the hard and soft endosperm increased to 402.3 and 163.3, respectively. Cracks were mainly formed during the main drying and cooling stages, and more cracks formed in the cooling stage. The cracking in the components at different drying stages could be well explained by glass transition. • Crack formation in the components depended on the form and process of glass transition. • Pericarp and germ were in a single state resulted in the absence of cracks. • Occurrence and propagation of cracks in the endosperm consistent with its glass transition. • Glass transition could explain the crack degree in the components at different drying stages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD)—formerly known as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)—is the most common chronic liver disease worldwide. Since there is currently no approved pharmacotherapy for MASLD, there is an urgent unmet need for efficacious therapeutics for this disease. Hepar compositum (HC-24) is a multicomponent medicinal product that consists of 24 natural ingredients. It has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties in an obesity-associated MASLD mouse model, but its potential to reduce MASLD-associated fibrosis had not been explored before this study. Here, we investigated the hepatic anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic potential of HC-24 in a streptozotocin (STZ)- and high-fat diet (HFD)-induced model of MASLD. Mice received a single injection of low-dose STZ at 2 days of age, followed by HFD feeding from 4 to 9 weeks of age. Mice were treated every second day with HC-24 or daily with the positive control telmisartan from 6 to 9 weeks of age. A non-diseased control group was included as a healthy reference. An explorative small-scale pilot study demonstrated that HC-24 improved liver histology, resulting in a lower NAFLD activity score and reduced liver fibrosis. A subsequent full study confirmed these effects and showed that HC-24 reduced hepatic inflammation, specifically reducing T helper cell and neutrophil influx, and decreased hepatic fibrosis (with qualitatively reduced collagen type I and type III immunopositivity) in the absence of an effect on body and liver weight, blood glucose or liver steatosis. These results show that HC-24 has hepatoprotective, anti-inflammatory, and anti-fibrotic properties in an STZ- and HFD-induced model of MASLD/MASH, suggesting that this multicomponent medicine has therapeutic potential for MASLD patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]