bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Altered near-bed turbulence: insights and negative impacts of inland navigation on benthic habitats
Authors: Flödl P. , Pucher D. , Schörgenhuber S. , Hauer C.
Published: February 2025

Aquatic ecosystems in rivers are currently exposed to a large number of stressors, causing a massive decline in abundance and biodiversity. One of these impacts is the wave action induced by inland navigation on riverbanks. The wave impact causes increased remobilization and erosion of the bed substrate and thus a recurring disturbance of the benthic habitats. The focus of this study on impacts of ship waves was on altered near-bed turbulence and its effects on a riverbank on the Danube in Austria. The natural and ship-induced wave action at a well-exposed gravel bar upstream of Vienna was recorded over the course of a year. Near-bed flow velocities were measured, which were used to calculate the turbulence and bed shear stresses. The results of this study reveal differences in the wave impact caused by the different types of ships. Here, the shape of the ship, its speed and the distance to the riverbank have a particular impact on the benthic habitats. To improve the aquatic habitat quality, speed limits and minimum distances to the river banks should be introduced based on further measurements. A possible restriction of recreational boating during ecologically sensitive seasons could also improve the quality of the habitats. The derived data also provide insights into the effects of strong winds compared to the waves caused by inland navigation. The observed wind-induced redistribution of sediments occurs sporadically, whereas the ship-induced resuspension depends on the type of ship and occurs regularly with shipping traffic on the Danube. However, seasonal effects must continue to be investigated and researched in the future. The presented data are also used to discuss the need for research into natural and anthropogenic wave impacts on river morphology and ecology.
Validation of the Chinese Version of the HOME Inventory
Authors: Leung Cynthia , Hui Anna , Chung Kelly , Wong Jolie
Published: February 2025

This study aimed to validate the Chinese version of the Infant/Toddler HOME and Early Childhood HOME inventories. Participants included 131 Chinese families with children aged 3 years 4 months to 6 years, and 129 families with children under 3 years 4 months. The HOME inventory was completed by trained social workers during home visits. Parents completed measures on their parental stress, their children’s behaviour, and provided demographic information. Children’s development was assessed by individual assessment (early childhood group) or observation (infant/toddler group). HOME scores correlated negatively with child behaviour problems and parental stress, and positively with child development. Families with higher income and higher parental education levels reported higher HOME scores. Rasch analysis results indicated that the HOME inventories largely fulfilled the unidimensionality requirement though the items loaded on the lower end. The Chinese version of the HOME inventory is considered a promising tool for assessing family environment in Chinese families.
A detailed performance assessment of Al2O3-SiO2-B mono and binary nanolubricants used in vapor compression refrigeration system
Authors: Yıldız Gökhan
Published: February 2025

The world’s energy needs have become important in the last decades. However, energy consumption in developed countries is increasing every year. Around 40% of the world’s energy consumption comes from buildings. The majority of this rate is due to the energy consumed by heating, cooling, and air conditioning systems. Many detailed studies have been conducted on energy efficiency in these systems where energy consumption is so high. Small improvements in these systems would lead to large energy savings on a global scale. When heating, cooling, and air conditioning systems are examined in detail, compressors consume the largest energy consumption. Interventions that affect compressor performance will yield results that are more positive. The performances of mono and binary nanolubricants acquired from various nanoparticles (Al2O3, SiO2, and B) used in different fractions (0.5 mass% and 1 mass%) in the vapor compression refrigeration system (VCRS) were evaluated in this study. As a result, a 14.81% increase in the COP of the system was obtained in 1 mass% Al2O3-SiO2 binary nanolubricant compared to POE. The compressor’s energy consumption in the experimental system decreased by 19.53% with 1 mass% Al2O3-SiO2 binary nanolubricant referred to POE. An improvement of 13.58% was achieved in 1 mass% Al2O3-SiO2 binary nanolubricant when the exergy efficiency of the VCRS was referred with POE. The best exergoeconomic performance was seen in 1% Al2O3-SiO2 binary nanolubricant with 13.22% increase compared to POE. The best environmental performance was acquired with 19.53% reduction in 1 mass% Al2O3-SiO2 binary nanolubricant. Consequently, the binary nanoparticle positively affects the VCRS performance in many aspects.
The Changing Interrelationship Between Scientific Knowledge and Economic Power
Authors: Bae Youngsoo
Published: February 2025

Economists and historians have been disputing the Schumpeterian view of independent inventors, observing a number of them succeed in retaining control over their own start-up and leading its growth into a mature company. The unconventional evolution is usually attributed to the changing balance of power in the equity market, where investors have been funding huge sums of money over the last few decades. This essay considers the patent system in addition to the equity market and studies institutional developments during the last five decades or so, which have affected the inventor-investor relationship. Concentrating on leading information technology companies, it also examines management practices, such as stock option plans, and probes the way inventors have made use of the financial resources provided by investors in developing innovative knowledge into marketable goods: With support from investors, inventors have often taken command in infusing scientific knowledge with economic power and thus consolidated enormous influence over employees, customers, and society in general. The essay explains that inventors, taking advantage of the patent system in addition to the changing balance of power in the equity market, have shaped a new balance of power and brought forth a strange compound that might be called intellective power.
Graded genericity
Authors: Lee Junhyo , Nguyen Anthony
Published: February 2025

Any adequate semantics of generic sentences (e.g., “Philosophers evaluate arguments”) must accommodate both what we call the positive data and the negative data. The positive data consists of observations about what felicitous interpretations of generic sentences are available. Conversely, the negative data consists of observations about which interpretations of generic sentences are unavailable. Nguyen argues that only his pragmatic neo-Gricean account and Sterken’s indexical account can accommodate the positive data. Lee and Nguyen have advanced the debate by arguing that the negative data is a problem for both Nguyen’s and Sterken’s accounts; these two accounts seem to incorrectly predict that generics have felicitous interpretations that they, in fact, fail to have. In this paper, we advance this debate—and, more generally, the task of developing an adequate formal semantics of generics—by arguing that a neglected class of theories are compatible with both the positive data and the negative data. Specifically, we argue that treating the generic operator GEN as a relative gradable expression with a positive, upper- and lower- bounded scale helps accommodate the positive data and the negative data. While developing this view, we show how several previously developed semantics of generics may systematically accommodate both sets of data. One broad contribution of this paper is to show that, while they generate important desiderata, the positive and negative data cannot determine a unique semantics for generics. A further contribution of this paper is to highlight previously unnoted ways in which degree semantics may inform semantic theories of generic meaning.
Let sleeping dogs lie: stereotype completion and the Phenomenology of category recognition
Authors: Ashby Brandon James
Published: February 2025

Perceptual liberals have offered numerous arguments claiming to show that kind-representing perceptual phenomenology exists, which raises questions about what it is like to perceive objects as belonging to different kinds. Yet almost no effort has been made to answer these questions. This quietism invites the concern that liberalism may be a defunct research program: unable to answer the questions raised by its own development. Building on work by P.F. Strawson, a recent surge of empirical research, and theoretical considerations from the Helmholtzian paradigm of perceptual psychology, I argue that perceptual experience can complete the stereotypical features, behaviors, and affordances of kinds of objects even when only some of those features/behaviors/affordances are “on display”, just as it can complete the shape of a cat behind a picket fence in amodal completion. The phenomenal character of high-level kind perception, I argue, is grounded in stereotype completion.
Nothing to it?: generalized identity and zero-grounding
Authors: Leech Jessica
Published: February 2025

The aim of this paper is to make some headway in understanding the notion of zero-grounding. The account of grounding in terms of generalized identity, proposed by Correia and Skiles (2019), is employed to clarify issues of ground and zero-ground. I discuss some options for accommodating zero-grounding. According to one option, we slide dangerously close to violating the irreflexivity of ground. According to another option, zero-grounding leads to a worrying kind of overdetermination. A third option offers a way out, but a challenge remains of how best to make sense of it. I further contend that these arguments broaden to concern any notion of grounding according to which groundees are “nothing over and above” their grounds. Ultimately, the aim of this paper is exploratory. It lays out some of the different options and challenges that face the grounding theorist who wants to make sense of zero-grounding.
Differential root zone secretions and the role of root border cells in rhizosphere manipulation
Authors: Kranawetter Clayton , Sumner Lloyd W.
Published: February 2025

Root tissues are broadly divided into mature tissue, elongation zone (developing tissue), root tip, and border cells. While each zone contributes individually to the overall root secretion profile, border cells are emphasized in this review due to their specialized secretory functions. Border cells are often overlooked in plant root focused studies, thus excluding an important component of root functionality. Border cells are a specialized cell type surrounding the root apical meristematic region of most plant species, with the exception of the Brassicaceae family that possess border-like cells. Both cell types share the commonality of complete detachment from the root tip and reliance on internal starch reserves to perform metabolic processes. However, border cells release from the root tip as single/individual cells whereas border-like cells separate as cohesive sheets. Furthermore, border cells, but not border-like cells, secrete a complex matrix consisting of mucilage, proteins, DNA, and metabolites. Many of these secreted compounds are bioactive (e.g. secreted mucilage supports microbial growth and DNA physically entangles pathogens) thus mediating symbiosis and pathogen defense. We are interested in metabolites secreted from individual root regions, with a heavy emphasis on those specifically arising from border cells. Border cell metabolite secretion is in need of further investigation, as current research indicates they secrete symbiosis-inducing, allelopathic, and defense oriented metabolites. This review will summarize current literature regarding metabolite secretions by specific root cell types and regions. In particular, it will focus on border cell contributions to the rhizosphere chemistry relative to other root tissue types.

Graphical abstract
Narrow but underdetermined: interpretational issues considering the analysis of electoral pledges
Authors: Nieminen Sakari , Ylisalo Juha
Published: February 2025

The study of electoral pledges has become an increasingly influential approach to parties’ programmatic commitments and their consequences. Researchers identify specific policies to which parties commit themselves in their electoral campaigns and examine whether these policies have subsequently been enacted. This approach relies on largely standardized methods and definitions, a central aim being the comparability of the results obtained in different contexts. Our article highlights methodological challenges related to the identification of pledges. Specifically, we are concerned with the narrow understanding of the concept of electoral pledge that is applied in several case studies, whereby a pledge is defined as a clear commitment to an action or an outcome whose occurrence can be verified. This operationalization appears to minimize discretion with respect to the contents of the pledges that parties have made, on one hand, and whether parties have carried out their pledges, on the other. However, this narrow understanding of electoral pledges is not as straightforward and simple as it appears. Building on the linguistic underdeterminacy thesis and using examples from a real coding process, we highlight several ways in which even this narrow operationalization leaves room for interpretation on behalf of researchers. Specifically, coders may attach differing weights to parts of a statement, concepts may have non-obvious meanings, and some words may mean different things to different audiences. We conclude that from the point of view of transparency, the field would benefit from observing the linguistic nature of electoral pledges in greater detail.
Integers represented by Lucas sequences
Authors: Hajdu Lajos , Tijdeman Rob
Published: February 2025

In this paper, we study the sets of integers which are n-th terms of Lucas sequences. We establish lower- and upper bounds for the size of these sets. These bounds are sharp for n sufficiently large. We also develop bounds on the growth order of the terms of Lucas sequences that are independent of the parameters of the sequence, which is a new feature.
Assessing psychological capital: Construction and validation of the psychological capital inventory (PSI-16) using automated item selection
Authors: Lorenz Timo
Published: February 2025

This article in the journal “Gruppe. Interaktion. Organisation. (GIO)” explores the construct of Psychological Capital (PsyCap) within the framework of Positive Organizational Behavior, focusing on its components—hope, self-efficacy, resilience, and optimism—and their impact on personal and organizational outcomes. Utilizing machine learning meta-heuristic techniques, the study developed the Psychological Capital Inventory (PSI-16) to address limitations in existing measures. Two samples (N = 297 and N = 272) were analyzed to construct and validate the PSI-16 and its nomological network, encompassing constructs like life satisfaction, gratitude, well-being, self-esteem, and perceived social support. Results indicated strong psychometric properties for PSI-16, with statistically significant positive correlations between PsyCap and life satisfaction, well-being, and adaptive personality traits, and negative correlations with psychological distress and perceived stress. The PSI-16 offers a robust tool for assessing PsyCap, enhancing theoretical understanding and practical applications in organizational and psychological contexts. Future research should further validate the PSI-16 across diverse cultures and settings.
Digital gestützte Organisationsberatung zur Gesundheitsförderung für Kleinunternehmen im Handwerk – Copreneur Coaching, Prozess- und Teamentwicklung, Analysetools, Online-Kurse
Authors: Busch Christine , Keller-Landvogt Katja , Dreyer Romana , Janneck Monique
Published: February 2025

Die Handwerksbranche mit ihren vielen, regional gut vernetzten, Kleinst- und Kleinunternehmen (KKU) ist ein relevantes Forschungs- und Entwicklungsfeld für die Gesundheitsförderung. Gerade digital gestützte Tools können nicht nur die Gesundheit und Innovationskraft fördern, sondern auch die Arbeitgeberattraktivität und den Betriebserfolg.

In diesem Artikel stellen wir digital gestützte Maßnahmen für die Organisationsberatung in KKU vor, die in über 80 Handwerksbetrieben seit 2018 erprobt wurden. Ein digital gestütztes Copreneur Coaching für die Inhaber und ihre Lebenspartner umfasst neben videogestützten Sitzungen, einem digitalen, interaktiven Workbook interaktive Online-Kurse zur Psychoedukation und Vor- und Nachbereitung der Sitzungen. Die Ergebnisse der wissenschaftlichen Evaluation im Wartekontrollgruppen- und Vergleichsgruppendesign bestätigen die Wirksamkeit und Erfolgsfaktoren je nach Digitalisierungsgrad.

Eine weitere Maßnahme ist eine digital gestützte Prozess- und Teamentwicklung (PTE) für die Beschäftigten und Inhabenden. Sie beinhaltet ein Online-Analysetool und einen Workshop im Sinne der Gefährdungsanalyse psychischer Belastungen und ein Online-Analysetool zur Erfassung von Belastungen und Ressourcen der Teamarbeit mit anschließenden Workshops zur Förderung der Zusammenarbeit. In den Workshops werden gegenseitige Perspektivübernahme und Wertschätzung im Team gefördert. Online-Kurse zur Gestaltung effektiver Teamsitzungen, zu gesundheitsförderlicher Führung und zu Beschäftigten mit Behinderungen ergänzen die PTE Maßnahme. Ergebnisse der wissenschaftlichen Evaluation zeigen u. a. die verbesserte gegenseitige Perspektivübernahme im Team und eine gesteigerte Arbeitszufriedenheit im Vergleich zur Wartekontrollgruppe. Der GKV-Spitzenverband der gesetzlichen Krankenkassen in Deutschland hat die Maßnahmen für KKU anerkannt. Die IKK classic und Kreishandwerkerschaften gewährleisten den deutschlandweiten Transfer der Tools.
Hybride Männlichkeiten praxeologisch analysiert: Väter als sorgende Elternteile in der frühen Phase von Elternschaft
Authors: Mauerer Gerlinde
Published: February 2025

Im Beitrag wird das theoretische Konzept hybrider Männlichkeiten mit Fokus auf Väter als sorgende Elternteile praxeologisch untersucht. Basierend auf 42 Paarinterviews (2021–2022, n = 42) analysieren wir väterliche Handlungspraxen, Motivationen von Vätern und Paaren, sowie den elterlichen Austausch von Wissen und die Bildung von Kompetenzen in der Kleinkindversorgung. Es wurden Eltern in Österreich interviewt, die jeweils mindestens fünf Monate lang Kinderbetreuungsgeld (KBG) bezogen haben. In der praxeologischen Analyse fokussieren wir auf Väter, da die Betreuung von Kleinkindern bis vor wenigen Dekaden nicht in normativen Konstruktionen von Männlichkeiten enthalten war. Es wird gefragt, wie Väter Handlungspraxen und Sorgetätigkeiten auf der Basis der Inanspruchnahme von KBG entwickeln. In der Auswertung der empirischen Daten fokussierten wir in einer themenspezifischen Inhaltsanalyse, angeleitet durch die semi-strukturierten Leifadenfragen und – basierend auf einbezogenen Vorerkenntnissen – in der Codeerstellung der Informed Grounded Theory folgend, auf Alltagshandlungen in der väterlichen Betreuung und Versorgung von Kleinkindern. Die Ergebnisse zeigen, dass Vätern die Übernahme und Verkörperung von Sorgeaufgaben gelingt, sie jedoch in ihren langfristigen Vereinbarungen von Kinderbetreuung und Erwerbsarbeit – insbesondere am Arbeitsplatz – weiter normativen Konstruktionen von Männlichkeiten entsprechen. Die Übernahme von väterlicher Verantwortung und Präsenz in der Familie wird bislang individualisiert betrachtet und vorwiegend als Unterstützung für Partnerinnen begriffen. Die erstellte Typologie von Vaterschaft verdeutlicht Zusammenhänge zwischen der Motivation der Väter und Paare, den Zielsetzungen der Paare und einer nachhaltigen väterlichen Übernahme von sorgenden Praxen. Insbesondere Väter, deren Handlungsmotivation durch geschlechtergerechte Zielsetzungen geleitet war, entwickelten nachhaltige sorgende Praxen in den Bereichen Ernährung, Haushaltsarbeit und in der Übernahme emotionaler und kognitiver Aufgaben in der Kleinkindversorgung.
Effect of Al and N Contents on the Characteristics of Non-metallic Inclusions and Precipitation Behaviors in Unidirectionally Solidified Fe-Mn-C-Al TWIP Alloys
Authors: Fan Yuewen , Hu Xiaojun , Matsuura Hiroyuki
Published: February 2025

Non-metallic inclusions have an important influence on the performance of steel. Especially, the precipitation control of inclusions is particularly significant during the solidification process in high Mn and Al TWIP steel. Regulatory alloy components as one of the effective methods, it was investigated that the effect of Al and N contents on the characteristics of non-metallic inclusions and its precipitation behaviors in unidirectionally solidified Fe-Mn-C-Al TWIP alloys. The results showed that the increase of initial Al and N concentration promoted their segregation each other, and the AlN particle size was also increased. Thermodynamic analysis of the precipitation of AlN and AlON revealed that the effect of N content on the precipitation of AlN was greater than that of Al content which showed the critical f
s to initiate inclusion precipitation decrease. On the contrary, the effect of Al content on the precipitation of AlON was greater. Under the condition where the oxygen content was basically similar, the increase of Al content made the primary bonding with O atoms reducing a
O in the melt, and the change of N content became the main factor influencing AlN precipitation.
Fluoroscopy-free Transcatheter Atrial Septal Defect Closure: A Simplified Approach
Authors: Lwin Naychi , Suursalmi Piia , Yong Sophia , Kabir Saleha , Jones Matthew I , Savis Alexandra , Qureshi Shakeel A , Rosenthal Eric
Published: February 2025

Purpose of Review

To provide an overview of fluoroscopy-free transcatheter atrial septal defect (ASD) closure and introduce a simplified approach that avoids pulmonary vein instrumentation.

Recent Findings

Since the first reported fluoroscopy-free ASD closure 24 years ago, only a few small series have described this technique. We present a simplified and less cumbersome approach to encourage wider adoption of the fluoroscopy-free method to suitable ASD anatomy.

Results

Fluoroscopy free ASD closure was performed in 9 patients using the conventional technique (Group 1) and 23 patients using our simplified approach of direct placement of the device into the defect (Group 2). Median age and weight were 28 years, 53 kg in Group 1 (range: 5–52 years, 22–88 kg) and 36 years, 66 kg in Group 2 (range: 4–76 years, 16–115 kg). Devices were successfully implanted in all patients, with a median device size of 21 mm (Group 1: 9–36 mm, Group 2: 10–33 mm). Procedural time was 47 min for Group 1 and 35 min for Group 2 (p = 0.09). Length of hospital stay was similar in both groups. There were no acute or long-term complications and no need for reintervention.

Transcatheter ASD closure without the use of fluoroscopy using the simplified approach is safe and effective, offers a shorter procedure duration and minimises instrumentation within the left atrium and pulmonary veins. Patient selection is key and with greater experience, this procedure may be applicable to a wider selection of ASD anatomy.
In vitro cytotoxic and apoptotic effects of boric acid on endometrial adenocarcinoma cell lines (HEC-1B and Ischikawa)
Authors: Çil Nazlı , Önder Elif , Damar Ayşe Nur , Tabatabaei Seyedmahdi , Çabuş Ümit , Mete Gülçin Abban
Published: February 2025

Endometrial carcinoma, the most common malignancy of the female genital tract, remains challenging to treat despite early-stage dominance. Surgical interventions and irradiation are insufficient for advanced endometrial cancer. Our aim was to investigate to explore the in vitro cytotoxicity and apoptotic effects of boric acid (BA) on endometrial adenocarcinoma cell lines (Ishikawa and HEC-1B cell lines), providing experimental evidence for the potential application of boric acid as an anticancer drug. Time- and dose-dependent cell viability was determined with the XTT cell proliferation test. Differences in mRNA levels were determined by RT-PCR using cDNAs and SYBR green assay. Colony formation and the effect of BA on wound healing were evaluated. Immunocytochemistry and TUNEL tests were performed to evaluate apoptosis. BA increased the expression of Caspase 3 and Bax in HEC-1B and Ischikawa cell lines. It was determined that BA significantly decreased the number of colonies in both cell lines (p < 0.05). In HEC-1B and Ishikawa cell lines, there was an increase in cell migration in the control group at 16 and 24 h. The apoptotic index was higher in the BA group, although it was not statistically significant. According to immunohistochemistry results, Caspase 3 and Bax expression in HEC-1B and Ishikawa cell lines were statistically increased in BA group. The expression of Bcl-2 was decreased statistically with BA treatment in both cell lines (p = 0.0001). BA treatment inhibited cell migration and colony formation, which are important for carcinogenesis, in endometrial adenocarcinoma cell lines. This inhibition was shown to occur through the apoptotic pathway.
Trauma and related measures one year after the 2023 earthquakes in Türkiye: post-traumatic stress, post-traumatic growth, spiritual well-being, and self-compassion
Authors: Kartol Aslı , Üztemur Servet , Chen Chao-Ying , Lin Chung-Ying , Gökalp Ali , Potenza Marc N. , Pakpour Amir H.
Published: February 2025

The 7.7- and 7.6-magnitude earthquakes that struck Türkiye on 6 February 2023 generated considerable material and moral damage. Traumas, such as earthquakes, often lead to posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in individuals; however, trauma may have the effect of transforming individuals in a positive sense, promoting post-traumatic growth (PTG). Although it is not possible to prevent trauma, reducing the adverse effects of trauma and focusing on positive opportunities and outcomes may help individuals to progress in more healthy ways. This study focused on the relationship between PTSD and PTG among earthquake survivors. It examined the potential mediating roles of self-compassion and spiritual well-being and their effects on PTG. Data were obtained from 390 survivors one year after the earthquake. Participants completed scales assessing PTSD (earthquake-related), PTG, self-compassion, and spiritual well-being. The results indicated that PTSD symptoms often persisted one year after earthquake-related trauma. Individuals with high PTSD scores also had high PTG scores. Self-compassion and spiritual well-being in coping with traumatic events mediated the relationship between PTSD and PTG. Thus, while the adverse psychological effects of the earthquake often persisted a year later, high levels of self-compassion and spiritual well-being after trauma appeared to exert positive effects and reduce PTSD. The findings may help guide future efforts of mental health professionals to reduce the traumatic effects of earthquakes.
Is DLT the solution for current supply chain problems? Bridging the gap between EDI and DLT
Authors: Finke Christian , Schumann Matthias
Published: February 2025

Centrally administrated systems have historically facilitated inter-organizational data exchange in supply chains (SC), relying on the message standard electronic data interchange (EDI). However, the current use of EDI fails to meet information needs, as point-to-point interfaces complicate information sharing among multiple partners and batch processing lacks real-time capabilities. This results in information asymmetries, leading to inefficiencies. Distributed ledger technology (DLT), which offers decentralized communication and data storage, presents a potential solution. In this paper, we present a systematic literature review comparing the centralized architectures utilizing EDI applications with the decentralized architecture of DLT within SCs. We identified the limitations of the current systems and assessed whether DLT offers a solution. The findings show that DLT enhances real-time data exchange, automation potential, and transparency, but also faces shortcomings. Integrating EDI with DLT offers a promising approach to leverage synergies and address the weaknesses of both technologies, e.g., lacking standards for DLT.
The link between Mitochondria and Sarcopenia
Authors: Kamarulzaman Nurul Tihani , Makpol Suzana
Published: February 2025

Sarcopenia, a widespread condition, is characterized by a variety of factors influencing its development. The causes of sarcopenia differ depending on the age of the individual. It is defined as the combination of decreased muscle mass and impaired muscle function, primarily observed in association with ageing. As people age from 20 to 80 years old, there is an approximate 30% reduction in muscle mass and a 20% decline in cross-sectional area. This decline is attributed to a decrease in the size and number of muscle fibres. The regression of muscle mass and strength increases the risk of fractures, frailty, reduced quality of life, and loss of independence. Muscle cells, fibres, and tissues shrink, resulting in diminished muscle power, volume, and strength in major muscle groups. One prominent theory of cellular ageing posits a strong positive relationship between age and oxidative damage. Heightened oxidative stress leads to early-onset sarcopenia, characterized by neuromuscular innervation breakdown, muscle atrophy, and dysfunctional mitochondrial muscles. Ageing muscles generate more reactive oxygen species (ROS), and experience decreased oxygen consumption and ATP synthesis compared to younger muscles. Additionally, changes in mitochondrial protein interactions, cristae structure, and networks may contribute to ADP insensitivity, which ultimately leads to sarcopenia. Within this framework, this review provides a comprehensive summary of our current understanding of the role of mitochondria in sarcopenia and other muscle degenerative diseases, highlighting the crucial need for further research in these areas.
Blaasspoelen met kraanwater ter vermindering van antibioticagebruik bij kathetergebruikers met recidiverende urineweginfecties: een prospectief observationeel onderzoek
Authors: van Veen Felice E. E. , Den Hoedt Stefan , Scheepe Jeroen R. , Blok Bertil F. M.
Published: February 2025

Samenvatting

Inleiding

Alternatieve behandelopties voor urineweginfecties (UWI’s) zijn nodig door toenemende antibioticaresistentie. Dit onderzoek richtte zich op de veiligheid, effectiviteit en behandelingstevredenheid van blaasspoelen met kraanwater (BSK) bij kathetergebruikers met recidiverende UWI’s.

Methode

In dit prospectieve, observationele onderzoek werden gedurende een periode van 3 maanden het aantal antibioticakuren, het aantal UWI’s en de behandelingstevredenheid van dezelfde patiënten met en zonder BSK vergeleken.

Resultaten

Bij 60 patiënten daalde het antibioticagebruik met 38,1% (IRR = 0,62; p = 0,016) en het aantal UWI’s met 37,9% (IRR = 0,62; p = 0,005). Het aantal UWI-gerelateerde ziekenhuisopnamen bleef gelijk. Een ruime meerderheid beoordeelde BSK positief voor effectiviteit (81%), gebruiksgemak (86%) en algehele tevredenheid (85%).

Conclusie

BSK vermindert bij katheterpatiënten met recidiverende UWI’s zowel het antibioticagebruik als het aantal UWI’s. Deze veilige en patiëntvriendelijke methode is eenvoudig te implementeren en bevordert duurzame zorg.
A streamlined FE method for deformation and residual stress prediction in butt welding using continuous heat input
Authors: Guan Xiaoyu , Hirohata Mikihito , Chang Kyong-Ho
Published: February 2025

Finite element (FE) analysis is useful to estimate and predict deformation and residual stress generated by welding. To improve the efficiency of the FE analysis for the welding process, this study proposed an element combination and heat input method for simulating the butt welding process on steel with a V-shaped groove. This method integrated shell and solid elements and input heat energy continuously into the weld metal elements considering the energy distribution. Additionally, a parametric study of the double ellipsoidal model was conducted within the Continuous Distributed (CD) heat input method to identify optimal parameters for accurately simulating the heat source. The simulation results of the models using different heat input methods of deformation and residual stress were in good agreement with the experimental results, and the model using the continuously distributed heat input method saved 54% computational time compared to that by a conventional heat input method without considering the energy distribution. It was indicated that the proposed method for simulating the butt welding process was effective and could significantly reduce computational time.
Comprehensive study on photovoltaic cell's generation and factors affecting its performance: A Review
Authors: Sharma Prabhakar , Mishra Ritesh Kumar
Published: February 2025

The utilization of fossil fuels for power generation results in the production of a greater quantity of pollutants and greenhouse gases, which exerts detrimental impacts on the ecosystem. A range of solar energy technologies can be employed to address forthcoming energy demands, concurrently mitigating pollution and protecting the world from global threats. This study critically reviewed all four generations of photovoltaic (PV) solar cells, focusing on fundamental concepts, material used, performance, operational principles, and cooling systems, along with their respective advantages and disadvantages. The manuscript analyzes various materials, including their performance, physical properties (electronic and optical), biodegradability, availability, cost, temperature stability, degradation rate, and other parameters. The sensible engineering of effective solar devices made of cutting -edge materials along with nanostructured ternary metal sulphides, and three-dimensional graphene are also briefly discussed which are more versatile, stable, thin and light weight with high performance as compare to third generation solar cells. The impact of material alterations is delineated in PV, where the efficiency of solar cell technology has improved from 4% to 47.1%. Further the research article deals with different internal and external stress factors affecting the solar PV module performance.
Water Resources Management at Lake Tiberias and the Lower Jordan Valley in interplay with seawater desalination and hydropower generation
Authors: Klein Martin , Theobald Stephan
Published: February 2025

Lake Tiberias is Israel’s largest freshwater reservoir, located in northeastern Israel, uphill from the Jordanian Lower Jordan Valley. In view of increased water transfers to Jordan and in order to stabilize the water level of the lake, the supply of desalinated seawater from the coast to the lake is being discussed. As the lake is about 200 m below sea level, the difference in altitude could be used for hydroelectric power generation. This analysis shows that, depending on the capacity of desalination plant and the hydraulic system of the tunnel, the installed capacity of the hydropower plant would be between 9 MW and 47 MW. The magnitude of electricity that could be produced ranges between 78 GWh/a and 400 GWh/a, which corresponds to a recovery of 11–16% of the amount of electricity required by the desalination plant. Approximately 100 million m³ of water is conveyed annually from Lake Tiberias to Jordan’s King Abdullah Canal, the major supply line for potable and irrigation water in the Lower Jordan Valley. To improve transboundary water management from Lake Tiberias to the Jordan Valley, the present study demonstrates the potential feasibility of a predictive controlled operation. The water supply can be managed regarding spatial and temporal water demand, taking into account operational regulations. Bearing in mind a future increase in Israeli water supply to Jordan through a Water-Energy SWAP, the importance of optimized lake operations and coordinated water transfers will increase even more.
The Measurement of Functioning as an Outcome in Intervention Studies Targeting Intrusive Memories of Trauma: A Narrative Review
Authors: Greenfield Emily M. , Mason Oliver J. , Holmes Emily A. , Young Kerry , Moulds Michelle L.
Published: February 2025

There has been a call for innovative, low-cost and simple treatments for people who have experienced trauma. The proposal that targeting intrusive memories could have the downstream effect of reducing other posttrauma symptoms or preventing their emergence has prompted the development of single-symptom interventions for intrusive memories, drawing on cognitive neuroscience models of memory consolidation and reconsolidation. To understand their full therapeutic impact, evaluations of the effectiveness of single-symptom interventions should include measures of broad outcomes (i.e. functioning), in addition to intrusion-related measures. This narrative review examined whether intervention studies targeting intrusive memories after real-world trauma measured functioning as an outcome, and if so, how. Twenty-five studies were included, 17 of which included a measure of functioning. Functional outcomes were not consistently measured in a rigorous or informative way. We make recommendations to address these issues and propose ways in which functioning can be effectively assessed in future work.
Environmental risks of the third re-purposing of the Haber-Bosch reaction
Authors: Duarte Carlos M. , Dennison William C.
Published: February 2025

The Haber-Bosch reaction, using energy to convert nitrogen gas into ammonia, is now being repurposed, fueled by renewable energy, to produce green ammonia. Green ammonia then becomes the carrier of hydrogen energy to fuel a range of processes, including the mobility of vessels and automobiles. Yet, the massive production of ammonia produced by the Haber-Bosch reaction to yield synthetic fertilizer applied to agricultural soils resulted in a major deterioration of water quality and the proliferation of dead zones in freshwater and coastal ecosystems. The combustion of ammonia results in reactive nitrogen species, such as NOx, which is also a potent green-house gas. To ensure that the green ammonia revolution delivers the environmental benefits it is designed to provide it is essential that policy regulations to avoid leakage of ammonia and reactive nitrogen forms to the environment precede its deployment at scale. New technologies are being proposed to further convert these products into inert N2, achieving circularity in the production and use of green ammonia, which is essential to avoid unintended environmental impacts.
Biogenic nanoparticles for managing salinity stress-related crop and environmental risks: realistic applications and challenges
Authors: Singh Abhishek , Agrawal Shreni , Rajput Vishnu D. , Minkina Tatiana , Rensing Christopher , Elshikh Mohamed S. , Zhao Yufei , Alexiou Athanasios , Papadakis Marios , Ghazaryan Karen
Published: February 2025

Every year, high salinity reduces agricultural yields by a substantial amount owing to osmotic and ionic impacts that prevent plants from absorbing the required water and promote the hyperaccumulation of ions, which enter the transpiration stream and injure plant cells. Several crops have been shown to benefit from the application of green or biogenic NPs of varying shapes, sizes, and concentrations, which are intended to protect crops against salt stress through enhanced growth metrics, seed germination and yield, improved root architecture, and defensive changes in biochemical/physiological indices. Although the underlying molecular basis of this phenomenon remains unclear, some studies have shown that exposing cells to NPs can alter the expression of several genes that generally respond to salt stress. As a result, biogenic NPs are considered viable alternative techniques for reducing the adverse effects of salinity stress on agricultural production. In the present review, keen emphasis has been placed on how biogenic NPs are helpful in decreasing the adverse effects of salinity stress on crops, which might be useful for the agriculture sector in the coming climate change era.
Enhancing antitumour immunity with photodynamic therapy
Authors: Selbo Pål Kristian , Korbelik Mladen
Published: February 2025

In this perspective, we present and discuss pre-clinical and some clinical studies demonstrating that local photodynamic therapy (PDT) per se is a treatment modality that can induce systemic anti-tumour immunity, however, the anti-tumour efficacy is strongly enhanced when PDT is combined with other treatment modalities, e.g., vaccines or ICI therapy. PDT has been recognized for over 30 years as a modality inducing strong immune effects in treated tumours. More recently, PDT has become perceived as a distinct type of immunogenic antitumor modality with an attractive potential for use as unique form of clinical cancer immunotherapy. It can be argued that PDT-inflicted tumour tissue injury provokes in situ vaccination effect. In the end of this perspective paper, we express our opinion of challenges and future directions in the field of PDT and PDT + immunotherapy.

Graphical Abstract
Research on the influence of tax authority's full responsibility collection of social security fee on the contribution rate of pension insurance: evidence from China
Authors: Wu Sisi , Li Shuqi , Zeng Yi , Li Xiaolin
Published: February 2025

This paper uses actuarial models to analyze the impact of tax authority's full responsibility collection of social security fee on the scope for reducing the pension insurance contribution rate. The study finds that: (1) The tax authority's full responsibility for collecting social security fees can increase the pension insurance collection rate by 20.3%-25.2%; (2) If the balance of fund income and expenditure and pension treatment remain unchanged, the contribution rate can be reduced by 1.34–2.22% in 2021–2030; (3) If the state-owned shares are transferred to enrich the social security fund, the contribution rate can be reduced by 3.58–4.22% in 2021–2030, and the payment burden of enterprises can be significantly reduced. In short, if the tax authority is fully responsible for collecting social security fees, it can provide conditions for lowering the contribution rate of pension insurance, but it needs to cooperate with other policies, such as the transfer of state-owned shares to enrich the social security fund. Chinese government should gradually clarify the tax authority's responsibility for collection to reduce the contribution rate of pension insurance and stimulate the market vitality.
A usability study of a set of multidisciplinary professional standards for health professions educators within a healthcare setting
Authors: Davids Jennifer A. , Hughes Monica
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Developing the core competencies of health professions educators has resulted in various professional standards and capability frameworks. On review, we found that none of the models met the requirements of multidisciplinary health professions educators. We developed a set of Multidisciplinary Professional Standards for Health Professions Educators.

Aim

To evaluate the usability of the Multidisciplinary Professional Standards for Health Professions Educators to inform improvements in its design, and support implementation.

Methods

We held six focus groups consisting of clinician educators and education managers to conduct a qualitative study of the usability of the professional standards. Data were thematically analysed using Guba and Lincoln’s constructivist evaluation framework.

Results

The HPE professional standards provide recognition for the role of educators in healthcare settings, and guidance for managers and educators. They introduce shared expectations and standards across all health disciplines and clarify role expectations and performance. The results helped with the refinement of the document to make it more user friendly. It forefronted that much work is needed at a strategic, systemic and professional level to positively integrate and promote the professional standards for optimum usability and adoption.

Conclusions

Developing a set of Professional Standards for Multidisciplinary Health Profession Educators is a welcome step on a long road within a health service hungry for direction, support, identity and recognition for educators. However, overcoming significant challenges for implementation were acknowledged as being key to its success.
Walsh Family Resilience Questionnaire Short Version (WFRQ-9): Development and Initial Validation for Disaster Scenarios
Authors: Guo Chunlan , Sim Timothy
Published: February 2025

Objective

The study aimed to develop and validate a short scale of family resilience for disaster scenarios. The Walsh Family Resilience Questionnaire (WFRQ-32) was adopted as the foundation for short version development.

Methods

The reliability and validity were evaluated using a sample of 1015 participants collected from a population-based cross-sectional study in Hong Kong. A confirmatory factor analysis was employed to scrutinize the factor structure of the short scale. Multivariate regression modeling was adopted to investigate the key determinants that enable families to overcome adversities and disasters.

Results

The Walsh Family Resilience Questionnaire Short Version (WFRQ-9) with 9 items demonstrated satisfactory measurement properties, including good explanatory power, construct validity, and high internal reliability. The WFRQ-9 presented a robust factor structure, with a 2-layer 3-factor model yielding the best fit. Proactive disaster preparedness and emergency response behaviors, and ample living space increased WFRQ-9 score. Lower education level, residence in government-subsidized housing, and having disabled family members decreased WFRQ-9 score.

Conclusions

The validated WFRQ-9 can be used to measure family resilience in interventions aimed at improving disaster resilience. Moreover, it emphasizes the significance of fostering family resilience for improved adaptation in the face of escalating disaster risks to families and communities worldwide.
The transition from re-entrant flow-driven to shockwave-driven cloud cavitation
Authors: Hatzissawidis Grigorios , Kuhr Maximilian M.G. , Pelz Peter F.
Published: February 2025

Understanding the mechanism of hydrodynamic cloud cavitation is crucial to reducing noise, vibration and wear. Recent studies have clarified the physics of two distinct formation mechanisms of cloud cavitation. Ganesh et al. (J. Fluid Mech., vol. 802, 2016, pp. 37–78) identified the propagation of bubbly shockwaves as a cloud detachment mechanism. Pelz et al. (J. Fluid Mech., vol. 817, 2017, pp. 439–454) explained the influence of Reynolds number and cavitation number on asymptotic growth of the cavity sheet and its periodic shedding caused by re-entrant flow. In this paper the two mechanisms are set in relation to each other. For this, we show firstly that the transition from re-entrant flow to shockwave-driven cloud cavitation is given by a kinematic condition, namely the asymptotic sheet length equates to the chord length,

$\hat {a}=L$

. For

$\hat {a}>L$

shockwave-driven cloud cavitation dominates. For

$\hat {a}< L$

re-entrant flow-driven cloud cavitation dominates. As the cavitation number decreases, the closure region of the cavity sheet reaches the trailing edge of the hydrofoil, identifying the trailing edge as a trigger for condensation shockwaves, particularly as re-entrant flow-driven cavitation diminishes. Since the sheet length is an implicit function of the cavitation number, the kinematic condition

$\hat {a}/L=1$

results in a critical cavitation number

${\sigma _\mathrm {II,III}}$

that is calculated analytically and validated by experiments. Secondly, we derive the relationship between the Strouhal number and the asymptotic sheet length for re-entrant flow-driven cloud cavitation. The model presented here is thoroughly validated by experiments.