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Comparison between moderate-load and high-load exercises in the rehabilitation of runners with Achilles tendinopathy: Protocol for a blind randomized controlled trial
Background Achilles tendinopathy is one of the most frequent conditions affecting runners. Exercise-based interventions are the main treatment options for Achilles tendinopathy; however, the ideal exercise dosage remains unknown. Objective The objective of this study is to investigate the effects of a moderate-load exercise intervention compared to a high-load exercise intervention in runners with Achilles tendinopathy in terms of pain, symptom severity, quality of life, muscle strength, and function. Methods Sixty amateur runners will be randomly allocated to one of two groups: high-load exercise group (HLG) and moderate-load exercise group (MLG). The HLG will start the treatment with calf exercises with 55% of 1 repetition maximum (1RM) and progressively increase the exercise load in 12 weeks to 90% 1RM. The MLG will perform exercises with 55% 1RM during the 12 weeks of intervention. The RM load will be reassessed every 2 weeks, and the total training volume (total repetitions and tendon time under tension per week) will be the same in both groups. Both groups will also perform strengthening exercises for the quadriceps and gluteal muscles. The primary outcome will be symptom severity (Victorian Institute of Sport Assessment−Achilles), which will be evaluated at baseline, at week 6, at week 12 (end of intervention), and 6 months after the intervention. Pain will be evaluated using the visual analogue scale during the same time points. Secondary outcomes will include peak isometric strength of ankle, knee, and hip muscles, function of plantar flexor muscles, quality of life, and perception of improvement. Results will be analyzed under the intention-to-treat principle using generalized estimating equations (GEE) and Bonferroni-adjusted post hoc tests. Discussion This will be the first randomized controlled trial comparing high-load exercises versus moderate-load exercises in individuals with Achilles tendinopathy applying equal training volume. Trial registration number RBR-4vwy5xj
Biomimetic actuator crafted from a relaxor ferroelectric polymer nanocomposite
Phosphorus Vacancy‐Engineered Ultrathin RuP Nanosheets for Accelerated and High‐Capacity N‐Ethylcarbazole Hydrogen Storage
Abstract Precisely constructing efficient and durable catalysts for liquid organic hydrogen carriers (LOHCs) is essential for large‐scale hydrogen storage and transport. In this work, we present a salt‐templated synthesis of ultrathin ruthenium phosphide nanosheets enriched with phosphorus vacancy (U‐RuPv). The catalyst exhibits remarkable catalytic performance for N‐ethylcarbazole (NEC) hydrogenation, achieving complete NEC conversion and a 98.11% yield of 12H‐NEC within 1.0 h at 180 °C and 7 MPa H 2 . The enhanced activity arises from abundant phosphorus vacancies on ultrathin RuP nanosheets, which modulate the electron configuration of adjacent Ru atoms, generating electron‐rich Ru σ+ (0<σ<3) active sites that promote efficient hydrogen activation and spillover. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations reveal that these vacancies induce local charge redistribution and a downward shift in the d‐band center, facilitating hydrogen desorption and NEC activation. This work highlights a dual‐engineering approach combining ultrathin nanoarchitectures and defect chemistry to advance LOHCs catalytic performance, offering new insights for catalyst design in hydrogen storage applications.
Genome-wide association study in a diverse grapevine collection provides insights into the genetic basis of berry size and cluster architecture traits
Berry and cluster size are pivotal determinants of grapevine productivity and consumer preferences and remain major targets in grapevine breeding. However, given their complexity as quantitative traits under polygenic control, a deeper understanding of their genetic determinants is needed. The gene pool of the Brazilian grapevine has made a significant contribution to enhancing grapevine performance in tropical and subtropical regions. In this study, we conducted a genome-wide association study (GWAS) using a diverse panel of 288 Vitis spp. accessions from the Instituto Agronômico Germplasm Bank, Brazil. This panel was phenotyped for six cluster architecture traits over 12 years and genotyped using the Vitis18kSNP array. Using two different algorithms, the GWAS identified 56 significant SNPs distributed across 17 chromosomes, validating previously identified quantitative trait loci (QTLs) and revealing novel associations. Four closely spaced markers on Chr1 suggest the presence of a QTL influencing five traits simultaneously. A strong association signal, with phenotypic variance explained (PVE) values of approximately 29–35%, indicated a major QTL for berry length (BL) and width (BWi) on Chr14. Additionally, major-effect SNP loci were identified for cluster weight (CW) on Chr1, cluster length (CL) on Chr7 and 14, cluster width (CWi) on Chr6 and 18, and berry weight (BW) on Chr4, with PVE values ranging from 18–27%. Furthermore, 80 genes associated with berry traits and 52 genes associated with cluster traits were identified as putative candidate genes in the genomic regions associated with significant SNPs. These candidate genes are involved in the regulation of growth and development, hormone regulation, protein synthesis, stress response, and other physiological processes essential for cell health and functionality. Our results provide valuable insights into the genetic determinants of grape berry size and cluster architecture, offering critical data to support future functional studies and enhance the efficiency of related breeding programs.
Accurate prediction of tensorial spectra using equivariant graph neural network
Near‐Infrared‐Activated Multiphoton Photocatalytic System for Synergistic Therapy via CO Generation and •OH Production
ABSTRACT Light‐triggered controllable carbon monoxide (CO) release represents a promising approach for cancer therapy but is limited by the poor tissue penetration of light and insufficient CO release rates within deep tumor microenvironments. Herein, inspired by near‐infrared (NIR)‐activated multiphoton photocatalysis, a novel zinc‐based metal‐organic framework (ZnTBH) is reported, for the first time, to enable effective NIR‐mediated synergistic therapy through combined CO gas therapy and photodynamic therapy (PDT) in deep‐seated tumors. The engineered MOF integrates a V‐shaped Tröger's base (TB) derivative with an A‐π‐A configuration as the organic linker, synergistically enhancing CO 2 adsorption to overcome the “dilute CO 2 ” challenge in tumors while enabling efficient endogenous CO 2 ‐to‐CO conversion via NIR‐driven multiphoton photocatalysis. Moreover, the photogenerated holes localize on biphenyl‐4,4'‐dicarboxylic acid can drive water oxidation to hydroxyl radicals (•OH), thereby further improving therapeutic efficacy. This study presents a significant advancement in the design of NIR light‐driven photocatalytic systems for safe, precise, and localized CO delivery, offering new opportunities for CO‐based or combination therapies in the treatment of deep‐seated tumors.
Self-reported mental health in teenagers who received CI before the age of 2.5 years in relation to typical hearing peers and parents of both groups
Objective The aim of this study was to investigate and compare how teenagers who received cochlear implants (CI) before 2.5 years of age perceive their own mental health, in relation to peers of the same age with typical hearing (TH). Comparisons were also made between teenagers’ self-reports and their parents’ assessments in both groups. Additionally, the study explored how various background factors might be associated with mental health outcomes. Materials and methods The Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ), both the self-report and parent-report version, was used to assess the mental health of teenagers with CI (n = 26) and teenagers with TH (n = 57). SDQ total and subscale scores were compared between groups, between teenagers and their parents, and in relation to background characteristics collected via a questionnaire developed specifically for this study. Results No significant differences in scores were found between teenagers with CI and TH. However, among those who reported clear difficulties, the challenges had persisted for a longer period of time for the CI group. Parents of the teenagers with CI scored similarly to their children on all scales except for Peer and Emotional problems. In contrast, parents of teenagers with TH scored significantly different from their children across all scales. Conclusion The mental health outcomes by the SDQ suggest positive development trends in teenagers with CIs, when compared to findings from previous studies. These results indicate that early cochlear implantation, combined with family-centered habilitation, may establish essential conditions for improved quality of life and psychosocial well-being in this population.
ReactionSeek: LLM-powered literature data mining and knowledge discovery in organic synthesis
Construction of Chiral Frustrated Lewis Pair Framework for Efficient Asymmetric Hydrosilylation of Imines and Enantiomeric Separation
ABSTRACT Construction of stable and highly crystalline chiral frustrated Lewis pair (FLP) frameworks can enhance their prospects for application in practical transformation reactions; however, the scarcity of synthetic approaches has strongly hindered the development of chiral FLP frameworks. Based on the conformational chirality theory, we successfully prepared a series of chiral Lewis base‐centered covalent organic frameworks (PCOFs) by leveraging the chiral memory effect during the dynamic cage‐to‐COF transformation. Subsequent integration of these PCOFs with tris(pentafluorophenyl)borane afforded chiral FLP frameworks (CFLPs), which efficiently catalyzed the asymmetric hydrogenation of imines. CFLP‐1 exhibited optimal catalytic performance, facilitating the hydrosilylation of imines with a product yield exceeding 99% and an enantiomeric excess (ee) of 85%. CFLP‐1 was then deposited onto a nylon membrane to fabricate a CFLP‐nylon composite membrane. This modification not only significantly enhanced the reaction rate but also enabled chiral resolution of the product, achieving a turnover frequency (TOF) of 209.37 h − 1 and an ee value of 98%. These results demonstrate that the novel CFLP material has broad application prospects in heterogeneous asymmetric catalysis and enantiomeric separation.
Correction: Prevalence of diarrheal diseases and associated factors among under five children in Africa: A meta-analysis
Epitope-spanning antigenic variation reprograms immunodominance and broadens immunity in sequential influenza vaccination
Single‐Atom and 1 nm Cluster Co‐Modified Thermoelectrics
ABSTRACT The size‐dependent electronic and phononic configurations of single atoms and nanoclusters enable tailored functionalities. Their synergistic effects also attract attention, yet precise control of anti‐aggregation states during high‐temperature operations poses formidable challenges in multiple fields such as fuel cells and thermoelectrics. Herein, we develop a solution‐processed strategy to precisely incorporate Pt species as isolated atoms (Pt 1 ) and sub‐nanoclusters (Pt n , ∼1 nm) in Bi 2 S 3 . Notably, Pt n of 1 nm size exhibit significant advantages over larger‐size counterparts in tuning electronic structure and optimizing charge transfer. Furthermore, Pt 1 and Pt n scatter 1 Å‐ to 1 nm‐ wavelength phonon that is conventionally underexplored. The 1 nm Pt n exhibits distinct force constant as compared to 3 nm Pt n , leading to ultra‐strong phonon Rayleigh scattering, which in turn significantly reduces thermal conductivity. The optimized Bi 2 S 3 ‐Pt 1 /Pt n composite achieves breakthrough thermoelectric performance, attaining a maximum zT of 1.02 at 773 K and single‐leg conversion efficiency of 1.58%, both setting benchmarks for Bi 2 S 3 systems. This strategy can also be extended to other thermoelectric material systems such as Bi 0.4 Sb 1.6 Te 3 , PbTe, or other fields including solid‐state batteries and solar cells.
Vaping and mental health: A cross-sectional study among university students in Bangladesh
Introduction Vaping has continued to rise, besides smoking, among youth in Bangladesh in recent years. While there has been evidence of the impact of vaping on physical health, studies focusing on mental health specifically from the South Asian context are almost non-existent. Therefore, this study examines the association between vaping and a spectrum of mental health issues, such as psychological distress, depression, and anxiety, among university students in Bangladesh. Methods A cross-sectional study with undergraduate students, aged 18−25 years, from seven universities in Bangladesh, was conducted. Data were collected using a web-based questionnaire. Data on smoking, vaping, and dual use were collected. Psychological distress was measured by using the K10 scale, while the CES-D10 and GAD-7 scales assessed depression and anxiety, respectively. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses determined the relevant associations. Adjusted Odds Ratios (AORs) and 95% Confidence Intervals (CIs) were reported. Results Of the 1615 study participants, males and females were distributed equally, and 54% were from two private universities. Findings revealed that one in six (15.4%, n = 248) participants were currently vaping. Exclusive current smokers were 6.2%, exclusive vape users were 6.5%, and dual users were 8.9%. Among vape users, the prevalence of psychological distress (80.5% vs. 76.6%) and depression (63.8% vs. 60.8%) was higher among dual users compared to current vape users; anxiety was similar (56.9% vs. 57.6%) in both groups. After adjusting potential confounders, current vaping was associated with drinking alcohol (AOR 11.43, 95% CI 7.41–17.63) and used of recreational drugs (AOR 4.29, 95% CI 2.36–7.79) However, dual use was associated with higher depression (AOR 1.93; 95% CI 1.04–3.57) and without a preexisting mental health condition was associated with severe anxiety (AOR 2.00, 95% CI 1.25–3.20). Conclusion The study underscores a concerning impact on mental health amongst the young group of the population who were vaping, specifically among the dual users. Besides raising awareness, university-based tobacco cessation support and counselling should be considered a student well-being support strategy.
Stress-induced iron-sulfur cluster damage as a conserved trigger of the bacterial stringent response
A Facile Neutral Nickel Catalyst Platform for High‐Temperature Solution Copolymerization of Ethylene and Acrylate
ABSTRACT Polyolefins are among the most important large‐scale polymers. High‐temperature solution polymerization is one of the most effective methods for preparing high‐performance polyolefins. Although advanced high‐temperature solution copolymerization of ethylene and polar olefins (especially acrylates) is highly desirable for producing value‐added polar polyolefins, it poses significant challenges in chemistry and catalysis, including low catalyst thermostability and low polymer molecular weight at temperatures exceeding 100°C. To address these issues, this study proposes design principles for an innovative neutral α‐ketocarboxamide nickel catalyst platform rather than modifying previously reported nickel catalysts. This new generation of nickel catalysts not only offers inherent advantages, including facile synthesis, air stability, and exceptional thermostability (150°C), but also enables high‐temperature solution copolymerization of ethylene and acrylates (methyl, n ‐butyl, and tert ‐butyl acrylates), producing high‐molecular‐weight copolymers without the need for cocatalysts. At the industrially preferred 110°C–150°C, ethylene–acrylate copolymers with molecular weights of 103–627 kDa were obtained, which are 4–19 times higher than those produced by previous catalysts. Transitioning from low‐ to high‐molecular‐weight ethylene–acrylate copolymers is vital for practical industrial applications. Mechanistic insights revealed the feasibility of ethylene–acrylate copolymerization. Overall, this study establishes a conceptual foundation for high‐temperature solution copolymerization of ethylene and acrylates.
Motivation and determinants of research careers among physicians: Exploring pros and cons of the Dutch MD-PhD model
Introduction Training pathways, such as MD-PhD-programs, have been established to increase the physician-scientist workforce. Still, MD-PhDs represent only a small fraction of the physician workforce worldwide. This is different in the Netherlands, where half of specialist physicians hold a PhD, but little is known about their careers. We aimed to explore the motivations of Dutch physicians to pursue a PhD, and investigate the proportion of MD-PhDs entering physician-scientist careers. Methods In 2022, we conducted a survey study among all MD-PhDs in the Netherlands who obtained a PhD degree in the year 2008. Drawing on self-determination theory, we used the Motivation for PhD Studies Scale to assess respondents’ motivations for pursuing a PhD. We defined a physician-scientist career as spending at least 20% of working hours on both research and clinical work. Results Of all 479 MD-PhDs, 240 completed the survey (response rate 56.6%). Motivation for a physician-scientist career appeared to be predominantly driven by autonomous motivation (including intrinsic and internalized forms of extrinsic motivation), rather than controlled motivation (reflecting external and internal pressures). Of all respondents, 67.5% reported a combination of clinical and research activities. One quarter (25.2%) met our criteria for a physician-scientist career, similar between men and women. Higher scores for autonomous motivation were associated with continued research activity, including a physician-scientist career and tenured appointment. The motivation to pursue research and having a scientific network or research collaborations were mentioned as supportive factors for continuing research after the PhD. The lack of dedicated time for research and a desire to spend more time with one’s partner or family were the most important barriers against continued research activities. Conclusions Autonomous motivation is more important than controlled motivation for Dutch physicians in pursuit of a PhD, and is associated with an increased likelihood of a subsequent physician-scientist career. Of the large proportion of MD-PhDs in the Dutch physician workforce, one fourth continues as physician-scientist.
Fine-scale structure of a whole regional population through genetics and genealogies
Steering Zeolite Brønsted Acidity and Catalytic Consequence Through Manipulating the Coordination Environment of Framework Aluminum
ABSTRACT The strong acidity of Brønsted acid sites in zeolites often leads to uncontrollable reactions and rapid deactivation. Therefore, strategically weakening zeolite acidity is essential for balancing reactivity with stability. The local coordination environment of framework aluminum usually governs its acidity. Hydroxylation of framework aluminum is often inevitable under high‐temperature and humid “working” conditions; however, the impact of hydroxyl coordination on the relevant acidity and catalytic behavior remains unclear. Here, we demonstrate how hydroxylation of framework aluminum strategically moderates acidity and enhances catalytic stability. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations predict that an increase in the hydroxyl groups coordinated to framework aluminum leads to a progressive weakening of Brønsted acidity. We experimentally validate this prediction by precisely manipulating hydroxylation in ZSM‐5 zeolite via steaming treatment and analyzing the effects using 2D NMR spectroscopy with 2– 13 C‐acetone as a probe molecule. The hydroxylated aluminum sites exhibit reduced adsorption and activation of methanol in the dehydration reaction, consistent with their weaker acidity. Catalytic tests reveal that the hydroxylated samples significantly enhance catalyst lifespan in the MTO process, while preserving stable reactivity. These findings provide key insights into how coordination perturbations influence zeolite acidity and catalytic performance, offering valuable guidance for designing zeolites with targeted catalytic functions.