bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Association Between Low Muscle Mass and the Risk of Depressive Symptoms: A Cross‐Sectional Study Based on the Chinese Longitudinal Health Longevity Survey (CLHLS)
Authors: Yang Yuting , Wang Yan , Chen Qiao , Li Ling , Jia Wangping
Published: February 2025

Background

Many studies have shown a strong link between sarcopenia and depression, and low muscle mass (LMM) is an important component in the diagnosis of sarcopenia; however, there have been no studies on the relationship between LMM and depressive symptoms in the Chinese elderly population. To estimate the potential relationship between LMM and depressive symptoms among older adults, a cross‐sectional analysis was conducted utilizing data from the Chinese Longitudinal Health Longevity Survey (CLHLS).

Method

The study sample comprised 11,711 individuals aged 65 years or older (mean age 83.0 ± 10.9) from the CLHLS database in 2018. We used the corrected appendicular skeletal muscle mass (ASM) prediction formula to assess muscle mass and the 10‐item Center for Epidemiological Studies‐Depression Scale (CES‐D‐10) to assess depressive symptoms. A multivariate logistic regression model and restricted cubic spline (RCS) curves were employed to investigate the association between LMM and depressive symptoms.

Results

The study findings revealed a 1.16‐fold higher risk of depressive symptoms in the LMM group compared to the control group (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 1.16, 95% confidence intervals [95% CI]: 1.05–1.29, p < 0.001). Furthermore, for every one‐point decrease in LMM score below 7.87, the risk of depressive symptoms increased by 8%, with statistical significance. However, when the LMM score was greater than or equal to 7.87, the decrease in the LMM score did not significantly increase the risk of depressive symptoms.

Conclusion

Our study suggests LMM is a risk factor for depressive symptoms in the elderly Chinese population, and within a certain range, the risk of depressive symptoms increases as the LMM score decreases. Physical exercise may be an effective strategy to maintain optimal muscle mass and help the mental health of the elderly.
Framing Entrepreneurial Ideas for Sustainability: How Do Purpose‐Driven Startups Include the Sustainable Development Goals in Their Pitches?
Authors: Saari Ulla A. , Aagaard Annabeth , Achtenhagen Leona , Mäkinen Saku J.
Published: February 2025

This paper investigates how entrepreneurs frame the sustainability of their business ventures when pitching their business prospects and sustainability approaches to investors. Drawing on framing theory, this research explores the classification and application of sustainability‐related frames employed in business pitches. A qualitative multiple case study methodology is applied to collect and analyze data from startup pitches presented at the startup event Slush, which is held annually in Finland. The sample consists of active startups and those that did not survive following the pitching event. The Need–Approach–Benefit–Competition (NABC) pitching model and the UN's Sustainable Development Goals serve as frameworks for systematically analyzing the content of the verbal pitch presentations. We disentangle how entrepreneurs formulate business ideas within frames related to sustainability themes on the micro, meso, and macro levels using cognitive, strategic, technological, and institutional frames. The resulting model distinguishes between different combinations of sustainability framing elements applied in startup pitches.
Merging of the Fukushima Health Management Survey With the National and Local Cancer Registry to Refine the Detection of Thyroid Cancer Cases After the 2011 Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant Accident
Authors: Kimura‐Tsuchiya Reiko , Nagao Masanori , Saji Shigehira , Hayashi Fumikazu , Ohira Tetsuya , Shimura Hiroki , Furuya Fumihiko , Suzuki Satoru , Suzuki Satoshi , Ishikawa Tetsuo , Yokoya Susumu , Ohto Hitoshi , Yasumura Seiji
Published: February 2025

Background

After the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant accident in 2011, the Fukushima Health Management Survey (FHMS) was implemented in Fukushima Prefecture to promote long‐term health care. The FHMS included thyroid ultrasound examination (TUE) for individuals aged ≤ 18 years, including fetuses at the time of the accident. However, the FHMS may not have captured all cases of thyroid cancer because it only followed up with examinees. To address this gap, we aimed to merge individual‐level information from the FHMS with national and local cancer registries (CRs) to determine the limitations of the FHMS and CRs in capturing thyroid cancer cases.

Methods

The FHMS‐eligible residents' information was supplemented by merging and cross‐validating the FHMS and CR data using the Fukushima Prefectural Cancer Registry (FPCR), 2008–2015, and the National Cancer Registry (NCR), 2016–2018. For analysis, registered cases were classified into three groups: registered in both the CR and FHMS, or only in the CRs, or only in the FHMS. The characteristics of each case were evaluated in each database.

Results

In the FHMS, 212 thyroid cancer cases were identified through 2018, with another 42 cases identified in the CRs. Of the 176 thyroid cancer cases registered until 2015, 28 (15.9%) were identified in the FHMS only and 13 (7.4%) in the FPCR only. Of the 78 additional cases identified since 2016, 29 (37.2%) were identified in the NCR only and 6 (7.7%) in the FHMS only. This indicates that the NCR captured the cases more efficiently than the FPCR.

Conclusion

Merging data from the FHMS and CRs at the individual level is necessary to capture thyroid cancer cases more accurately after the 2011 nuclear accident.
“Missed” Diagnosis of Mycosis Fungoides: A Case Report
Authors: Mathur Mahesh , Thakur Neha , Regmi Sandhya , Paudel Supriya , Karki Sambidha , Bhattarai Nabita
Published: February 2025

Mycosis fungoides (MF) is the most common subtype of primary cutaneous T‐cell lymphoma characterized by malignant proliferation of T cells with epidermotropism in the skin. MF has an indolent course, presents as erythematous scaly patches or plaques, and may progress to generalized erythroderma, cutaneous tumors, or extracutaneous invasion. MF is often misdiagnosed at early stages due to nonspecific clinical findings. Patients with MF are at high risk for developing secondary malignancies, including hematological malignancies. We hereby report a case of MF misdiagnosed and associated with underlying diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma.
Challenges in Diagnosis and Management of Takayasu Arteritis: A Case Report Highlighting Vascular Complications and Delayed Recognition
Authors: Adhikari Bindira , Niraula Biraj , Dahal Polina , Suvedi Anil , Subedi Gaurav
Published: February 2025

Takayasu arteritis is a rare systemic inflammatory condition that primarily affects medium and large arteries, mainly in young Asian women with an estimated incidence of 1–2 per million. Diagnosis is challenging due to nonspecific early symptoms, resulting in an insidious clinical course until vascular complications arise. A 30‐year female presented with progressive easy fatigue over 4 years. She developed recent visual disturbances, headaches, and dizziness. Examination revealed unrecordable blood pressures and vascular bruits. Imaging revealed vascular involvement including stenosis of arch of aorta and its all branches. The available treatments can ease symptoms and slow progression, but the late diagnosis caused lifelong morbidity, with no procedure to resolve persistent fatigue. TA poses diagnostic challenges due to its nonspecific early symptoms and risk of severe vascular complications. This case highlights the importance of considering TA in young women with vague systemic inflammatory symptoms.
Deep Brain Stimulation in the Bed Nucleus of Stria Terminalis and Medial Forebrain Bundle in Two Patients With Treatment‐Resistant Depression and Generalized Anxiety Disorder—A Long‐Term Follow‐Up
Authors: Naesström Matilda , Blomstedt Patric , Johansson Viktoria
Published: February 2025

This case report presents positive outcomes from deep brain stimulation (DBS) targeting the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST) in two patients with treatment‐resistant depression and generalized anxiety disorder. DBS effects in the medial forebrain bundle (MFB) area were unclear. Further research into DBS's efficacy when comorbid anxiety is present is required.
Rare Gastric Metastasis From Cervical Cancer: A Case Report
Authors: Hasan Fariha , Timsaal Yumna , Gandhi Tanay‐Veer , Shojaei Hadi , Schwartz Michael , Chaaya Adib
Published: February 2025

MGTs most commonly arise from malignant melanoma. MGTs from primary cervical cancers are an extremely rare clinical finding with only a limited number of cases reported in the literature to date. We present the case of a 41‐year‐old female who presented with complaints of dysphagia and fatigue with a history of advanced cervical cancer. Endoscopy results revealed an infiltrating metastatic mass, with biopsy findings consistent with squamous gastric carcinoma of metastatic origin. Despite being on parenteral nutrition, poor disease prognosis led to eventually being discharged to hospice.
A narrative review of artificial intelligence to optimize the use of fertilizers: A game changing opportunity
Authors: Saha Sarmistha , Bhardwaj Alok
Published: February 2025

The green revolution, which came after the industrial revolution, boosted the crop yields produced per unit of land, but it also increased the need for synthetic fertilizers and pesticides and lowered the water table and increased salinization. In order to improve farm productivity, soil fertility is crucial and for preserving soil fertility, boosting yields, and enhancing harvest quality, fertilizer is essential. The decline in the fertility of the soil is a key constraint in enhancing food production worldwide, and improper nutrient management is a significant cause of this problem. Agroecosystems will need to implement contemporary technologies in order to produce enough food and mitigate the detrimental effects of chemical fertilization on the environment. Hence, the agri‐food industry is progressively utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) to increase productivity, efficiency, and sustainability. AI uses computational models to process data and identifies patterns for predictions or decision‐making. This review emphasizes how AI technology could be used for the predictions of manure compositions for improvement of food safety and quality. We aimed to identify the role of AI and the supporting evidences of field studies to characterize the controlled combinations of fertilizers for the efficient crop production with lowest possible plant toxicity. Also, we discuss the constraints and challenges of AI in the food and agricultural sector. In conclusion, AI‐based approaches and field studies suggested that combining organic and inorganic fertilizers can synergistically improve crop growth and yield parameters.
Synthesis of Porphyrin Derivatives Bearing Six Carboxylic Acids for the Formation of Three‐Dimensional Hydrogen‐Bonded Network Structures
Authors: Lee Jeong Heon , Kim Younghun , Kim Gyurang , Jang Woo‐Dong
Published: February 2025

we synthesized a series of porphyrin derivatives with six carboxylic acid groups to explore their potential in forming hydrogen‐bonded networks (YSHs). By systematically varying the position and structure of these carboxylic acid groups, we observed distinct types of hydrogen‐bonded frameworks, including two‐ and three‐dimensional networks. Using single‐crystal X‐ray crystallography, we confirmed that these derivatives form YSHs with unique structural properties influenced by carboxylic acid positioning and π‐π interactions. The 1Zn derivative forms a robust 3D hydrogen‐bonded network stabilized by π‐π stacking interactions, while the 2Ni derivative, with no such stacking, exhibits reduced stability and collapses upon solvent removal. Structural variations like the terphenylene and biphenyl linkers in 3Zn and 4Zn lead to flexible frameworks, while the 5Zn dimer forms two distinct structures depending on the solvent environment. Our findings reveal that careful control over carboxylic acid orientation and linker structure enables the design of diverse hydrogen‐bonded networks with tunable stability and dimensionality. These insights advance our understanding of supramolecular assembly principles in porphyrin‐based materials and offer new pathways for developing high‐performance frameworks for applications in catalysis, sensing, and materials science.
Optimum salinity brine and surfactant interaction with crude oil and carbonated rock at fluid–fluid and rock‐fluid interfaces: Evaluating ion‐specific effects on the system
Authors: Maghsoudlou Mohammad , Moghadasi Jamshid
Published: February 2025

The smart water injection (SWI) method is derived from low salinity water flooding, which aims to increase oil production. The complexity and heterogeneity of carbonate reservoirs require further investigation. Understanding the active mechanisms during SWI is crucial for designing the injected water composition to enhance the efficiency of the method. However, there is a research gap regarding the dominant factors that influence the performance of SWI, particularly both the ‘fluid–fluid’ and ‘rock–fluid’ interactions, simultaneously. To address this issue, the article through new insight into ions, solutions, and tests tries to enhance the precision of the obtained results by optimizing the solutions by changing the potential determining ions (PDI) in fixed ionic strength through contact angle measurements. Furthermore, by using a cationic surfactant, which has not been previously used in low‐salinity water flooding experiments, surfactant‐free solutions, and proper tests for each mechanism, including Zeta potential, pH measurements, interfacial tension, vial test, high‐resolution microscopy, and Karl Fischer titration, interactions on fluid–fluid and rock‐fluid interfaces were tested and investigated. The results were validated through core flood tests. The study found that coordination was observed between multivalent ion exchange and water in oil micro‐dispersion, which are two current mechanisms in both micro‐ and macro‐scale media. In surfactant‐free solutions, the effect of ions was discerned in the order of SO42−, Mg2+, and Ca2+. The formation of micro‐emulsions and the IFT reduction by ionic pairs of surfactants significantly increased oil recovery by up to 65%. The effective ions facilitating this performance were ranked as follows: SO42− > Ca2+ > Mg2+.
GRU‐based stacked sparse autoencoder with attention mechanism for process monitoring
Authors: Miao Zengdi , Wu Ping , Wu Zhenquan , Jia Xiangjun , Xu Hui , Jiang Jian
Published: February 2025

To ensure the operation safety of industrial processes, process monitoring techniques have been receiving considerably increasing attention from both academia and industry. The advent of deep learning has revolutionized data‐driven process monitoring by effectively dealing with the inherent nonlinearity of industrial processes. In this work, a gated recurrent unit‐based stacked sparse autoencoder with attention mechanism (GRU‐SSAE‐AM) model is developed for process monitoring. This model leverages the power of recurrent neural networks in conjunction with the sparse stacked autoencoder to tackle the temporal and nonlinear features present in process data. To enhance the model's ability to distill critical information indicative of process status, an attention mechanism is naturally integrated within the encoder–decoder framework. Experiments on an industrial benchmark of Tennessee Eastman process (TEP) and a real blast furnace ironmaking process (BFIP) are carried out to verify the capability and effectiveness of the proposed GRU‐SSAE‐AM based process monitoring method by comparison with other related methods.
Exploring Ethnic Cosmopolitanism as a Catalyst for Sustainable Peacebuilding in Northern Ghana
Authors: Tseer Tobias , Kuusaana Elias Danyi , Iddrisu Suale
Published: February 2025

Many scholars often refer to the instrumentality of cosmopolitan values and ideals in fostering inclusivity across societies of the world. Yet relatively little academic attention has been given to exploring how cosmopolitan ideals could be leveraged as a tool for sustainable peacebuilding in multicultural and multi‐ethnic communities. This study aimed to address this gap by connecting cosmopolitanism, ethnic pluralism, ethnic conflict and sustainable peace. The study explored the perceptions of ethnicity and their dynamics in conflict escalation and sophistication in Northern Ghana with focus on the Kusaasi‐Mamprusi conflict in Bawku Traditional Area. The purpose is to propose a pathway towards the gradual removal of ethnic boundaries for the emergence of a cosmopolitan ethnic identity—a liberalized identity that integrates values, norms and traditions of all cultural groups in a community. The research adopted a qualitative approach using interviews and focus group discussions to gather data from 50 purposively sampled participants belonging to the Kusaasi, Mamprusi, Mossi, Busanga, and Hausa ethnic societies. The study found that ethnic divisions worsened the conflict dynamics in Bawku. While participants recognized the need for a peaceful coexistence, dual claims to ancestral lands created an indigene‐settler dichotomy making peacebuilding efforts much more difficult. The study argues that the development of a cosmopolitan ethnic society that integrates all the core values of the discerned ethnic societies in Bawku holds the potential to de‐escalate conflicts and promote peaceful coexistence. Public sensitization, education, and awareness programmes are recommended to promote tolerance, respect, and appreciation for unity in diversity.
Impact of Grid‐Side Converter Filter on the Small‐Signal Stability of a Grid‐Connected DFIG‐Based Wind‐Driven System
Authors: Nirala Pritam Kumar , Bhushan Ravi , Jagtap Kushal M.
Published: February 2025

The incorporation of doubly fed induction generators (DFIGs) into wind‐driven systems (WDS) has become increasingly significant because of their efficient and adaptable power generation capabilities. The proposed system consists of a wind turbine (WT), wind generator, rotor‐side converter (RSC), grid‐side converter (GSC), grid‐side filter (GSF), and a line network. The GSF can have a significant impact on the performance and small signal stability (SSS) of grid‐connected DFIG‐based wind‐driven systems (WDS). This work offers a comprehensive SSS analysis of the proposed system, incorporating GSF dynamics into the modeling process. This study connects the DFIG‐based WDS with a single‐machine infinite bus (SMIB) test system and uses an in‐depth simulation approach to evaluate the effect of the voltage and current dynamics of the grid‐side LCL (inductor‐capacitor‐inductor) filter on SSS under different operating conditions. The analysis employs eigenvalue and participation factor techniques to examine how GSF dynamics influence the SSS of the system. Further, the dynamic behavior of rotor speed, electrical torque, DC‐link voltage, and voltage at the point of common coupling (PCC) is investigated in response to various step disturbances in wind speed and infinite bus voltage. The proposed model enhances the system's dynamic performance and improves the current and power quality of the DFIG by reducing total harmonic distortion (THD). All the simulation studies were conducted in a MATLAB/SIMULINK environment. Finally, the simulation results were validated for real‐time applications through real‐time control simulations on the OPAL‐RT platform. This study offers valuable insights into the dynamics of GSFs in DFIG‐based WDS, providing practical recommendations for improving system performance and grid integration.
Environmental DNA supports importance of heterogeneous pond landscapes for arthropod diversity conservation
Authors: Zizka Vera , Schwesig Katharina , Engel Nele , Hölzel Norbert , Scherber Christoph
Published: February 2025

Freshwater ponds host diverse arthropod communities, but conservation frameworks are scarce. Heterogeneous pond mosaics of various sizes and successional stages can develop during raw material extraction in mining sites, acting as refugia for a variety of species. Here, we investigate arthropod diversity and conservation status across lakes and ponds in mining sites; analyze how water body size, age, and vegetation cover affect diversity patterns; and discuss how results can contribute to management actions and conservation schemes. Using environmental DNA metabarcoding, we determine arthropod diversity at 55 pond and lake plots located in active mining sites in Germany. We assess the effect of structural parameters on arthropod species richness, beta diversity, and the occurrence of rare and endangered species. Overall, we detected 436 arthropod species, many of which lacking a threat status evaluation, potentially hampering analyses of conservation aspects. We identify different effects of structural variables on species richness and beta diversity, and variable responses at the order level. Further, results reveal comparable diversity of accumulated pond network area, compared with single large water bodies of similar size, supporting high importance of heterogeneous pond networks for arthropod diversity conservation. Our study shows that systematic biodiversity management concepts both during active mining and at later stages of succession will be needed. Monitoring should go beyond just measuring taxonomic richness, including also assessments of community composition, the presence of rare and endangered taxa, and functional diversity.
Mannitol‐Based CO Surrogate for Palladium‐Catalyzed Alkoxycarbonylation
Authors: Liu Zhen‐Wei , Yang Hefei , Bao Zhi‐Peng , Zhang Jiajun , Wu Xiao‐Feng
Published: February 2025

Carbonylative transformation is already been accepted as a powerful toolbox in synthetic chemistry. However, the manipulation of toxic and smell‐less carbon monoxide gas lagged it from wide range applications. Hence the developing of new and efficient CO surrogates become an attractive topic. Herein, we developed a novel mannitol‐based carbon monoxide surrogate with an enhanced carbon monoxide loading capacity compared to known organic carbon monoxide surrogates. We successfully used it in the palladium‐catalyzed alkoxycarbonylation of aryl bromides with phenols only 0.5 equivalent of it required. This newly designed carbon monoxide surrogate offers additional possibility for further development in CO chemistry.
Exploring Political Polarization Between Opponents and Supporters of Ruling Parties Following the 2019 Lebanese Uprising
Authors: Al‐Amine Mortada , Saab Rim , Harb Charles , Majed Rima
Published: February 2025

The 17 October 2019 uprising in Lebanon marked a pivotal period of economic crisis and discontent with the ruling elite. We examined social cohesion post‐uprising by exploring political polarization between “anti‐ruling parties” citizens and “partisan/unaligned” citizens, in two surveys with a community sample (Study 1, N = 357) and a nationally representative sample (Study 2, N = 1200). Across both studies, “anti‐ruling parties” respondents exhibited lower institutional trust, lower sectarianism, and greater support for a secular system compared to “partisan/unaligned” citizens. Conversely, no differences emerged surrounding economic discontent. Importantly, disenchantment with the status quo emerged across political lines. (De)mobilization tendencies varied. In Study 1 (2020), with lingering revolutionary hope, “anti‐ruling parties” respondents showed stronger system‐challenging collective action orientations. In Study 2 (2022), amid counter‐revolutionary gains, disenchantment with October 17 groups emerged, with “anti‐ruling parties” respondents showing lower voting intention, greater migration tendencies, and less readiness to use arms.
Localization Detection of False Data Injection Attacks in Novel Energy and Power Systems Based on Correlated Feature‐Multi‐Label Cascading Boosted Forests
Authors: Wang Lei , Li Tong , Geng Hongbi , Liu Yang , Chen Jian , Zhao Hongwei
Published: February 2025

Under the dual influence of power system transition to integrated energy and the evolution of cyberattack technology, a correlation feature‐multilabel cascade boosted forest based false data injection attack localization and detection method is proposed for the new energy power system to accurately locate the attacked position of the power grid in response to the stealthy false data injection attack (FDIA). Considering the FDIA principle and characteristics of the new energy power system, as well as the fact that the new energy power system contains a large amount of measurement data and variable operation states, the proposed method enhances the fitting ability of multi‐label cascade forests to complex power measurement data by incorporating the extreme gradient boosting algorithm to identify the anomalies of state quantities of each node of the system, and introduces the “correlation feature” algorithm to detect the original power measurement data. The “correlation feature” algorithm is introduced to extract highly informative features from the original power measurement data to enhance the generalization ability of the multi‐label cascade forest, so as to obtain more accurate localization detection. Simulation tests are conducted in the IEEE‐57 node system to verify the effectiveness of the proposed method, and compared with other methods, the proposed method has better accuracy, detection rate, sensitivity, and F1 score.
Effects of unsteady characteristics of sediment‐laden overland flow on soil detachment rate
Authors: Wang Yuxin , Zhang Kuandi , Wang Pengfei , Yan Jingxin , Yang Yang
Published: February 2025

Currently, experimental research is lacking on unsteady flow in the study of factors affecting the detachment capacity (Dr) of overland flow, which is critical for understanding soil erosion. This study analysed the response mechanism of Dr to the hydrodynamic characteristics of roll waves relative to a non‐unstable sediment‐laden overland flow (according to a gradually varied flow) using an indoor fixed bed test under five slope gradients, five flow rates and five sediment concentrations. Owing to the instability of the roll wave and its effect on the soil detachment‐transport process, the Dr of the roll wave flow was larger than that of the gradually varied flow as a whole. Dr decreases with an increase in sediment content, but the downward trend is different with or without a roll wave; the Dr is more sensitive to changes in the slope when a roll wave exists. When no roll wave exists, the flow has a greater influence on the Dr. Sediment load improves the influence of flow on Dr under different flow conditions; under different experimental conditions, the flow velocity and water depth are positively correlated with the Dr. The specific energy can better fit Dr with roll waves, and the stream power can better predict the Dr under the two water flow conditions; by introducing the relative parameters, it was found that the detachment effect of the roll wave will decrease with the increase of the influence of the wave‐current; the soil detachment prediction model of stream power and sediment concentration was constructed by introducing fluctuation influence parameters δ (represented by relative wave height), which has high reliability (R2 > 0.8, NSE > 0.7). The results showed that the effects of the altered flow state and sediment load significantly affected the hydrodynamic characteristics of the overland flow and the soil detachment rate.
Measuring the Swimming Skills of Adults Attending Swimming Lessons in Australia as a Drowning Prevention Measure
Authors: Willcox‐Pidgeon Stacey , Leggat Peter A. , Devine Susan , Franklin Richard C.
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Swimming and water safety skills are essential for reducing drowning. Swimming and water safety programs primarily focus on children, despite adults accounting for over 80% of fatal drowning in Australia. This study aims to identify types of adult swimming programs in Australia, who attends these programs, and measure their swimming skill achievement against national benchmarks.

Methods

A retrospective cross‐sectional study of adults attending swimming programs between 2018 and 2021 was conducted. Participant assessment records were analysed against the [Australian] National Swimming and Water Safety Framework and national benchmarks to be achieved by 6 and 12 years old. Descriptive statistics and Chi‐square analysis were undertaken.

Results

Of 4914 adults attending swimming lessons, 44% were female, median age was 38 years, and 40% were from high socioeconomic areas. On average, adults attended nine lessons, averaging 4.5 h in the water. At their final assessment, 69% could swim at least 5 m (6‐year‐old benchmark), and 8% could swim 50 m continuously (12‐year‐old benchmark).

Conclusions

Adults of all ages are learning to swim; however, only 8% are achieving the 12‐year‐old benchmark of swimming 50 m. An equity issue exists, with adults from lower socioeconomic areas and men less likely to be attending swimming programs. Developing and maintaining water safety skills throughout the lifespan is vital for reducing drowning risk among adults.

So What?

Adults are spending time, money and effort learning to swim, however, more is needed to ensure that participants stay in lessons long enough to develop the necessary skills needed to be safe in the water.
Using Practice Employment Tests in Recruitment and Selection to Equalize Preparation Opportunities
Authors: Campion Emily D. , Campion Michael A.
Published: February 2025

Human resources (HR) managers struggle to manage the adverse impact‐validity tradeoff where some of the most predictive and affordable hiring procedures, such as mental ability tests, often result in lower hiring rates for racioethnic minority subgroups of candidates, thus creating legal risks due to anti‐discrimination laws. In this study, we examine whether employer‐sponsored practice testing will reduce subgroup differences in test performance by offering an equalizing preparation opportunity framework based on the tenant of access, including access to information and opportunities to perform. In a large diverse sample in an operational selection context (Npractice test = 29,626; Nactual test = 18,408; Nboth = 5078), we found that candidates who took the practice test scored higher on the actual tests than those who did not. All candidates benefitted by receiving an accurate estimate of passing the actual test and increasing their likelihood of applying. Further, racioethnic minorities realized greater score gains than racial non‐minorities, thereby reducing subgroup mean differences and subsequent adverse impact. The results were supportive for all major racioethnic minority subgroups (Asians, Blacks or African Americans, and Hispanics), and effect sizes were meaningfully large. Finally, we examined differences in other preparation tactics (e.g., gaining additional experience, using study guides) and found that racioethnic minorities were likely to use some tactics more than racioethnic non‐minorities, but not the most predictive tactics. We conclude that HR managers should consider equalizing preparation opportunities, specifically practice testing, to help address the adverse impact‐validity tradeoff by reducing impact without abandoning valid employment tests.
Investigating the Clogging Mechanism in Membrane Discharge Irrigation Systems Using Reclaimed Water: A Comparative Case Study of Trace Quantity Irrigation and Moistube Irrigation
Authors: Xu Ping , Zhao Yuanzhe , Ou Yumin
Published: February 2025

Trace quantity irrigation (TQI) and moistube irrigation (MTI) are membrane discharge irrigation (MDI) systems designed to minimize water use and prevent clogging. When laboratory‐prepared reclaimed water (similar to the China Class I‐B standard) was used, emitter clogging (EC) occurred faster in the TQI, escalating within 216 h, compared to 312 h for the MTI. Analysis of dry weight (DW), extracellular polysaccharides (PSs) and proteins (PNs) in different parts of the irrigation pipes revealed that the PS and PN contents contributed to the EC, with the end part being the most affected. High‐throughput sequencing identified Proteobacteria as a key factor in clogging, with Aquabacterium being dominant in TQI and Pseudomonas in MTI, whereas Methylophilus was common to both, suggesting that aerobic and anaerobic alternations exist in the irrigation pipe. Computational fluid dynamic (CFD) simulations indicated that the TQI had a faster flow velocity and greater water shear, leading to greater DWs in MTI (1.79–2.27 times higher than the TQI) but similar PS (1.06–1.47 times) and PN (0.87–1.03 times) levels. To manage clogging, MDI systems should apply chlorination with pressure flushing before clogging intensifies, adjusting the flushing duration according to the water quality.
Long‐Term Impact of Physical Activity on Mortality in Adults With Multimorbidity: A 12‐Year Cohort Longitudinal Study From the Survey on Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe
Authors: Veronese Nicola , Ragusa Francesco Saverio , Hajek André , Stubbs Brendon , Smith Lee , Barbagallo Mario , Dominguez Ligia Juliana , Fontana Luigi , Soysal Pinar , Sabico Shaun , Al‐Daghri Nasser M.
Published: February 2025

Background

While physical activity (PA) is known to reduce mortality in the general population, this relationship in individuals with multimorbidity (≥ 2 chronic conditions) is unclear. This longitudinal study aimed to investigate whether there is a long‐term association between PA levels and mortality rates over a 12‐year period in adults with multimorbidity.

Methods

Data were obtained from eight waves of the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe (SHARE), from 28 European countries. PA levels were self‐reported via computer‐assisted personal interviews. Mortality during the follow‐up period was assessed using data obtained from caregivers through end‐of‐life interview. Multimorbidity was identified based on the presence of two or more 15 self‐reported chronic diseases/conditions. Cox's regression analysis, adjusted for potential confounders, was used to assess the association between PA level and mortality. p‐values were calculated using the Jonckheere–Terpstra test for continuous variables and the Mantel–Haenszel Chi‐square test for categorical variables, stratified by PA level.

Results

The study included 9216 participants with multimorbidity (mean age 69 ± 10.1 years; 58.7% were women). Among those with multimorbidity, individuals with high PA level were significantly younger, more frequently men, less impaired in activities of daily living, less educated and less frequently obese than those with very low level of PA (p < 0.0001 for all comparisons). Over the 12 years of follow‐up, mortality incidence was three times higher in individuals with multimorbidity and very low PA levels than those with multimorbidity and high levels of PA. After adjusting for confounders, the risk of mortality was significantly lower for participants with moderately low PA levels (HR = 0.64; 95% CI: 0.59–0.71; p < 0.0001), moderately high PA levels (HR = 0.53; 95% CI: 0.47–0.60; p < 0.0001) and high PA levels (HR = 0.49; 95% CI: 0.43–0.55; p < 0.0001) compared to those with very low PA levels.

Conclusions

Findings from the present study suggest that people with multimorbidity who had lower levels of PA were three times more likely to die prematurely after 12 years than adults with multimorbidity and higher levels of PA at baseline. These findings underscore the importance of promoting physical activity in adults with multimorbidity to reduce the risk of premature mortality. Future longitudinal research is required to confirm/refute our findings. Further, intervention studies are needed to understand whether increasing levels of physical activity in this population subsequently reduces mortality risk.
The prognostic value of POD24 in relapsed/refractory follicular lymphoma—A SCHOLAR‐5 analysis
Authors: Limbrick‐Oldfield Eve H. , Kanters Steve , Ray Markqayne D. , Best Timothy , Palivela Madhu , Beygi Sara , Patel Anik R. , Gribben John G. , Ghione Paola
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Follicular lymphoma (FL) has a heterogeneous prognosis. Progression within 24 months of starting front‐line therapy (POD24) is prognostic of overall survival (OS). Despite its prognostic value in early lines, the role of POD24 in relapsed/refractory (R/R) patients initiating later lines of therapy (LoTs) is unknown.

Methods

We analyzed the SCHOLAR‐5 real‐world cohort to investigate whether POD24 is prognostic in patients with R/R FL initiating ≥3rd LoT.

Results

Among the 128 SCHOLAR‐5 patients, 34 patients experienced POD24. POD24 patients received their ≥3 LoT after a shorter time compared with non‐POD24 patients (median 42.0 months [range: 8.8‒17.8] vs. 109.9 months [range: 29.6‒310.2]). Using a time‐dependent multivariate Cox model, POD24 was predictive of shorter OS from initiation of ≥3rd LoT with a hazard ratio (HR) of 2.44 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.20‒4.96). For progression‐free survival, using a multivariate repeated‐measures Cox model, the effect was similar but not statistically significant (HR: 1.45; 95% CI: 0.94‒2.11).

Conclusion

This study demonstrates that among patients with R/R FL initiating a ≥3rd LoT, POD24 patients reach these LoTs sooner after diagnosis and POD24 remains prognostic of subsequent OS. This suggests that POD24 status can inform clinical decision making in this population.
Interstratified Illite‐Hydroxy‐Interlayered Smectite—A Disorder Structure Model for Quantification Using Rietveld Refinement
Authors: Dietel Jan , Ufer Kristian , Gröger‐Trampe Jens , Kaufhold Stephan , Dohrmann Reiner
Published: February 2025

Background

The acidic weathering of soils is known as a problem for decades. It leads to the deterioration of essential soil properties, including soil fertility, water, or cation buffering capacity due to solution and solid storage of Al3+ by polymerization in the interlayer of (former) swellable clay minerals. These Al3+‐intercalated minerals/phases are known as hydroxy‐interlayered minerals (HIM). X‐ray diffraction, especially in combination with Rietveld refinement, is a powerful tool to quantify HIM and characterize the soil. Disorder structure models for hydroxy‐interlayered smectite (HIS) exist, but in soils, discrete smectite is less common than interstratifications like illite‐smectite. The process of hydroxy‐interlayering turns the latter into illite‐HIS (Ilt‐HIS), an interlayering of micaceous (illitic) layers with HIS layers and still swellable smectitic layers.

Aims

The aim of the present study was to develop disorder structure models for Ilt‐HIS, taking into account different states (air‐dried or ethylene‐glycol saturated) and different Reichweite values typically present in soils (R0, R1, and R3).

Results

These models were tested on real Al‐treated samples (ISCz–1 as R1, illitic clay from Király‐hegy near Sárospatak, Hungary as R3) or verified by comparison with independently calculated/simulated diffraction patterns (R0). Physical mixtures of selected R1 and R3 Ilt‐HIS samples with corundum were quantified, and the models validated by results deviating ≤5% w/w from actual values. Where higher deviations were present, these were explained by the presence of x‐ray amorphous phases as detected by Fourier‐transformed infrared spectroscopy and simultaneous thermal analysis. For both R1 and R3 samples, the hk lines did not differ significantly with increasing Al treatment, indicating no significant change of the stacking and ordering.

Conclusions

The created structure models can be used to quantify Ilt‐HIS samples (R0, R1, and R3) in soil.
Increased posterior tibial slope leads to altered pressure distribution in the lateral tibial plateau—A biomechanical in‐vitro study
Authors: Hoffeld Kai , Göker Luis , Grevenstein David , Hockmann Jan Philipp , Rosswinkel Benjamin , Eysel Peer , Oppermann Johannes
Published: February 2025

Purpose

The aim of this study is to investigate the impact of increased posterior tibial slope (PTS) on pressure distribution in the medial and lateral tibial plateau. The focus is on compartment‐specific effects and potential correlations with cartilage damage, due to altered anterior tibial translation caused by increased PTS.

Method

Ten freshly frozen knee specimens were prepared and subjected to biomechanical testing. PTS was modified by inserting 5°, 10°, 15° and 20° polylactic acid wedges into osteotomy gaps. Pressure distribution was measured using Tekscan's Pressure Mapping Sensor 5040™ beneath the menisci at varying PTS angles. The kinetic data were tracked using the Optotrak Certus® system. Statistical analyses were employed to evaluate the pressure shifts and their significance.

Results

The study revealed that increased PTS significantly shifted the pressure point anteriorly on the lateral tibial plateau, while no significant changes were observed on the medial plateau. The analysis of tibial translation showed a corresponding rise in anterior translation with increasing PTS, especially at higher angles.

Conclusion

Increased PTS, particularly above 10°, induces significant anterior translation and altered pressure distribution, primarily affecting the lateral tibial plateau. These findings support the hypothesis that elevated PTS contributes to biomechanical stresses in the knee, potentially increasing the risk of lateral compartment cartilage degeneration. These results highlight the importance of considering PTS in clinical assessments and interventions aimed at optimizing knee joint health.

Level of Evidence

Level IV.
Fabrication of Core‐Crosslinked Polymer Micelles via Photoinduced Azide Crosslinking
Authors: Baysoy Betül Sena , Günaydın İrem , Batu Hatice Kubra , Civelek Dilek Ozturk , Temel Binnur Aydogan
Published: February 2025

Polymer micelles have shown significant promise as drug delivery systems, particularly for poorly water‐soluble chemotherapeutic agents such as doxorubicin (DOX). However, their instability in biological environments and the potential for easy drug release remain major challenges. This study investigates the fabrication of core‐crosslinked polymer micelles using photoinduced azide crosslinking to enhance stability and achieve controlled drug release. Amphiphilic copolymers are synthesized using reversible addition‐fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization, incorporating poly(ethylene glycol) methyl ether (PEG) as the hydrophilic block and a styrene‐based azide monomer for the hydrophobic core. The micelles are crosslinked via photoinduced azide crosslinking and characterized for size, morphology, and drug loading capacity (DLC). DOX‐loaded micelles demonstrated pH‐responsive release, with minimal release at physiological pH (7.4) due to strong π–π stacking interactions between DOX and the hydrophobic core. At acidic pH (5), these interactions weakened, resulting in enhanced drug release, mimicking the conditions of the tumor microenvironment. Core‐crosslinked micelles exhibited superior stability, reduced drug leakage, and improved release control compared to non‐crosslinked micelles. These results highlight the potential of photo‐crosslinked polymer micelles as a robust platform for the delivery of hydrophobic anticancer drugs, addressing key limitations of conventional micelle‐based systems.
Synthesis and Application of Polyvinyl Butyral Resins: A Review
Authors: Zhang Yifan , Fan Yinqi , Yang Yang , Chen Zhizhong , Chen Jiangyi , Zhao Keliang , Chen Chongyi , Liu Zhenguo
Published: February 2025

Polyvinyl butyral (PVB) resin exhibits strong adhesion to a wide range of substrates, making it a valuable material in various commercial applications as an adhesive, primer, organic binder, and flexible substrate. Recently, PVB has attracted growing interest due to its versatility and potential for diverse engineering applications, including smart windows, wearable electronics, tissue engineering, and multifunctional materials. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the synthesis, characterization, and applications of PVB, and highlights recent advancements in synthetic techniques and explores its use in laminated glass, flexible electronics, anti‐corrosion coatings, composites, and electronic ceramics. Additionally, current challenges and future opportunities are discussed to underscore emerging research directions for PVB and its analogues in engineering applications. By offering an in‐depth perspective, this review aims to guide both fundamental research and the development of commercial applications of polyvinyl acetal materials.
The Longitudinal and Transverse Piezoelectric Effects of the Ferroelectric Polymer P(VDF‐TrFE)
Authors: Revenant Christine , Toinet Simon , Lawrence Bright Eleanor , Benwadih Mohammed
Published: February 2025

Polyvinylidene fluoride‐trifluoroethylene (P(VDF‐TrFE)) exhibits outstanding electromechanical properties and is a material of choice for non‐volatile memories, energy‐harvesting systems, multifunctional actuators, and sensors. However, this polymer remains one of the least understood materials among ferroelectric materials due to its semi‐crystalline structure with chains folding in elongated grains through the lamellae and amorphous regions. Here, operando high‐resolution X‐ray diffraction is exploited to unravel the P(VDF‐TrFE) structural evolution upon the first electric field application, called poling. This X‐ray technique allows revealing drastic changes in the lamellae with the ordered amorphous (OA) emergence between crystalline nanodomains. The discovery of this OA emergence is critical because it significantly affects the structure, as well as the mechanical, ferroelectric, and piezoelectric properties of the polymer. After poling, even small nanostructural changes lead to measurable effects yielding the piezoelectric coefficients. The longitudinal and transverse piezoelectric effects can be explained by the complex P(VDF‐TrFE) structure. The elongated grains consist of lamellae separated by isotropic amorphous (IA) regions. This study not only sheds light on the fundamental mechanisms occurring in P(VDF‐TrFE), but also offers guidance for new ferroelectric organic materials for flexible, biocompatible sensor and energy applications.
Weaving Through Fire and Force: Fire Behavior and Fire Stability of Unidirectional, Bidirectional, and Woven Roving Glass‐Fiber Composites
Authors: Jauregui Rozo Maria , Sunder Sruthi , Inasu Sneha , Meinel Dietmar , Ruckdäschel Holger , Schartel Bernhard
Published: February 2025

This study systematically investigates the transfer of flame retardants (FRs) from epoxy resins to composites. The flame‐retardant composites are formulated using bisphenol A diglycidyl ether as the resin and dicyandiamide as the hardener, reinforced with glass fibers (GFs) using various textile architectures: unidirectional (UD), bidirectional (BD), and woven rovings (WR). These composites are evaluated using bench‐scale fire stability tests and cone calorimeter experiments to assess critical parameters, including the temperature at failure, time to failure, and fire behavior. Among the tested configurations, UD‐GFs demonstrate superior flame retardancy, fire stability, flammability, and mechanical performance, attributed to their higher residue yield, forming a more efficient protective char layer. However, the addition of FRs is limited by their impact on the material's mechanical properties. When the FR content increases to 30 and 50 wt.% of the resin, the composites exhibit a decrease in mechanical performance, adversely affecting both time to failure and temperature at failure. While adding FRs reduces the risk of fire propagation, it does not substantially enhance fire stability or mechanical performance.