bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A light weight magnetic coupler structure for interoperability and robust misalignment with primary-side impedance tuning for wireless power transfer systems to electric vehicles
Authors: Yadav Ankur , Bera Tushar Kanti
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Wireless power transfer (WPT) technology is explored as a promising solution for electric vehicle (EV) charging due to its convenience and potential to overcome traditional charging limitations. This study aims to present a novel lightweight magnetic coupler design, square grid structure (SGS), specifically aimed at enhancing interoperability and robustness in the presence of misalignments for primary-side impedance tuning WPT systems adapted for EVs.

Design/methodology/approach

The proposed coupler design uses the finite element analysis method through ANSYS Electronics Desktop software for optimization. A comprehensive comparative analysis is conducted, focusing on critical magnetic parameters such as coupling coefficient (k), mutual inductance (M) and self-inductance (L) for different air gaps. Three other coupler designs, including circular, rectangular and DD configurations, are considered in the evaluation process. Additionally, the performance of the proposed coupler is assessed through misalignment tolerance in different directions, magnetic flux density (B), magnetic field strength (H), Energy density, Quality factor (Q) with mesh generation and thermal analysis using ANSYS Icepak design software.

Findings

The study presents findings from the comprehensive analysis, highlighting the performance of the proposed SGS coupler in terms of different key magnetic parameters, misalignment tolerance in different directions and various operational conditions. To verify the result for Practical implementation, MATLAB Simulink demonstrates a remarkable power transfer efficiency (PTE) of 94\%, exceeding alternative coupler designs. These findings emphasize the potential of the lightweight magnetic coupler to enhance the performance and practicality of WPT systems for EVs.

Research limitations/implications

Although the study offers valuable insights into the proposed SGS coupler design, there might be restrictions due to their hardware design being complex compared to other couplers and particular operating circumstances or environmental elements that were not considered during the investigation. Future studies could investigate these areas, focusing more on the shielding method to provide a more thorough knowledge of the coupler’s functionality.

Originality/value

This work advances WPT technology by presenting a novel SGS coupler design, which provides a robust and efficient solution for EV charging. The suggested lightweight magnetic coupler’s novelty and value in addressing the growing need for sustainable transportation solutions are highlighted by the significant improvement of 94% PTE.
Determining optimal installation of renewable distributed generators in the radial distribution system considering technical-economic aspects by using energy valley optimizer algorithm
Authors: Chinh Nguyen Cong , Tung Nguyen Nhat
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This study aims to introduce an effective optimization algorithm for finding the suitable penetration of renewable distributed generators (RDGs) in the power system. The target of this research is to minimize the total costs, including the cost of emissions, the cost of purchasing electricity from the primary grid and the cost of branch power losses.

Design/methodology/approach

Energy valley optimizer (EVO) is applied to solve the optimization problem for determining the integration of photovoltaic units and wind turbine units in the system. This study considers the time variation of load demand and output power of units to improve the quality of the found solution. Simulation results are collected for evaluating the performance of the used methods in the same conditions.

Findings

The results indicated the huge economic and technical benefits from adopting the optimal solution of placement and sizing of RDGs in the power system. Besides, the outstanding efficiency of EVO is also proven through comparison with sunflower optimizer, drawer algorithm, osprey optimization algorithm, genetic algorithm, particle swarm optimization and artificial bee colony algorithm.

Originality/value

The mathematical models for the objective function and the constraints are appropriately described for the optimization problem. A simulation program for applying the optimization algorithms to the above problem is developed in the MATLAB software. The simulation results demonstrated the excellent benefits not only economically but also technically for the hybrid distribution system.
The roadblocks to success: exploring challenges faced by BA-level students in practicum experiences in Jordan
Authors: Altakhaineh Abdel Rahman Mitib , AlTalafeeh Asma , Al-Ziadat Mariam
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This study aims to explore the challenges faced by BA students in the Applied English program at the University of Jordan during their practicum experience, focusing on the first semester of the academic year 2022/2023. It seeks to shed light on training environment issues and workplace skills while considering the cultural and economic context of Arab countries, particularly Jordan.

Design/methodology/approach

The study employed a qualitative research design using semi-structured focus group discussions. A sample of 24 students were selected through convenient sampling, ensuring accessibility as the researchers are also instructors at the same university. Data collection emphasized ethical considerations, including informed consent and ensuring privacy and confidentiality.

Findings

The study identified significant challenges related to the training environments and the alignment of tasks with learning objectives. Familial and cultural factors were found to influence the students’ experiences, highlighting the importance of context-specific support. Recommendations were provided to enhance the practicum experience by improving training site selection, refining tasks and offering targeted support systems. Additionally, the study highlights the potential of virtual training environments as a future area of exploration.

Originality/value

This research is among the first to address practicum challenges faced by BA students in the Arab region, with a specific focus on Jordan. By situating findings within the cultural and economic contexts of the region, the study provides unique insights for tailoring support systems and training programs. The results contribute to a better understanding of how to prepare graduates for successful careers in similar contexts.
Integrating skill knowledge and multimodal information to enhance 3C assembly skills
Authors: Liu Liqun , Xie Yupeng , Liu Ting
Published: February 2025

Purpose

To solve the 3C assembly task, the traditional robot needs a lot of manual coding and the skills learned are faced with the problems of adapting to the scene and task diversity, lack of generalization ability and so on. This paper aims to propose a skill knowledge and multimodal information fusion algorithm (SKMIF).

Design/methodology/approach

This method combines skill knowledge and multimodal information in large language model to enhance 3C assembly task skills. The SKMIF algorithm is used to conduct experiments in simulated and real 3C assembly tasks, which verifies the effectiveness of the method in single-task and multi-task scenarios, and solves the problem of insufficient generalization ability of automated programming.

Findings

Through the transfer from simulation to reality, the assembly strategy learned in the virtual environment is applied to the real scene, which significantly improves the assembly accuracy and success rate in the real environment. The verification of the enhanced 3C soft-row line assembly task shows that the success rate is 96%.

Originality/value

This paper proposes a new algorithm to enhance 3C assembly skills, to improve generalization ability and adaptability to multitasking environments.
Optimizing office space: the role of passive occupancy
Authors: Einola Kiia Aurora , Dooley Ken
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This study aims to examine how active occupancy, passive occupancy and clean desk policy impact the optimal size of a desk-sharing office. Passive occupancy refers to a situation where a desk remains occupied because workers have left personal items on it, even though they are not present. This occupancy state makes it unavailable for others, but presence sensors do not detect it as occupied. Clean desk policy defines how long these workers may be absent without cleaning their desks.

Design/methodology/approach

Desk-level occupancy data from 10 sites in the Nordics was collected and used to calculate office utilisation with different clean desk policy time delays. The data was gathered over 6 months from 7,522 sensors.

Findings

Clean desk policy time delay had a significant impact on the office utilisation. Considering passive occupancy with a 120-min clean desk policy time delay added, on average, 86.4% on the calculated utilisation, almost doubling it.

Research limitations/implications

Data was focused on three Nordic countries. The implications should be tested in other regions as well.

Practical implications

If organisations neglect passive occupancy, they may consider their office less occupied than it is. Accurate data can help organisations to confidently right-size their office space.

Originality/value

Passive occupancy has not been considered in terms of office sizing, despite its significant impact on desk availability. Clean desk policy has been discussed in previous literature, but its impact on office sizing remains unknown.
CEO career variety and ESG disclosure: evidence from Indonesia
Authors: Rahmatulloh Sahrian Aditya , Anridho Nadia , Ningsih Sri , Fitriani Nurul , Lee Siew Peng
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the influence of CEO career variation as one of the internal factors influencing the decision-making in environmental, social and governance (ESG) disclosure.

Design/methodology/approach

Using data from Indonesian nonfinancial companies publicly listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange from 2018 to 2021, this study uses a quantitative analysis approach to explore the relationship between CEO career variation and ESG reporting decisions.

Findings

This study reveals that CEOs who have greater career variety exhibit reduced involvement in ESG disclosure, in which a relationship is particularly pronounced in young firms but reversed in older ones where CEO career variety correlates positively with ESG disclosure.

Research limitations/implications

This study is limited to nonfinancial companies in Indonesia, and the voluntary nature of ESG reporting during the chosen period may impact the generalizability of findings. Future research could explore other contextual factors and extend the investigation to different industries or regions.

Practical implications

This study finds that CEOs with diverse career backgrounds tend to disclose less ESG information, implying that shareholders should consider candidates’ backgrounds and experiences when selecting future CEOs. This highlights the importance of choosing CEOs with relevant experience to ensure a strong commitment to sustainable business practices and social and environmental goals.

Originality/value

This study applies the upper echelon theory to investigate the previously unexplored relationship between ESG disclosure and CEO careers in a variety of industries, employers, functions and countries.
“Everything is figure-out-able”: challenges of Aer Cosmetics, Inc
Authors: Singh Nitin Kumar , Rossetti Federica , Byrne Erin
Published: February 2025

Research methodology

The case describes a real company, real people and real situations. The authors have used real names other than the name of the cosmetic formulation company and the product design company – which the authors address as “the Florida company” and “the product design company,” respectively. The authors used both secondary and primary data to develop this case study. The case originated from the guest lecture given by Paige in one of the author’s classes. Following her guest lecture, the authors asked her permission to develop her story into a case study, and she graciously consented. The authors obtained background information about the company – Aer Cosmetics, from the company website, news articles and the TEDx talk delivered by Paige. The authors followed it with Paige’s interview, which the authors recorded and transcribed. Based on this interview and the information collected from the other sources, the authors developed the final version of the case study. Paige read and approved the final version for its factualness and sequence of events. The case was then informally reviewed by professors who have published their case studies in the target journal. The authors revised the case study based on this feedback and again obtained Paige’s approval on the case text before submission to the journal.

Case overview/synopsis

This case is set in May 2024. Paige DeAngelo, the CEO of Aer Cosmetics, was disappointed with the sales of her newly launched sustainable mascara product. She had been a student entrepreneur at Drexel University for the last three years. She developed her product with the help of the university incubator and other entrepreneurial support systems available at Drexel and outside. Paige had graduated in December 2023. Drexel University allowed its students to remain in their incubator program only up to one year after graduation. Thus, with seven months remaining, it is time for Paige to decide how she would manage the next growth phase of her business. The students are put into the shoes of Paige DeAngelo. They are asked to decide whether to extend their stay in the incubator program, venture out and be an independent business entity, pitch the company for acquisition by corporations, or leverage other entrepreneurial support systems in the environment to grow the company. Students need to craft a strong argument, either supporting the options they advocate for or opposing those they reject.

Complexity academic level

This case was written primarily for upper-division undergraduate courses but is also suitable for MBA courses.
Unveiling university-industry knowledge transfer: insights from bibliographic coupling analysis
Authors: Figueiredo Natália , Patrício Lurdes , Pinheiro Paulo
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Organizations often utilize external sources to acquire knowledge, and one such area of interest has been the transfer of knowledge between universities and industry (U-I). This topic has gained significant attention in recent years because U-I cooperation brings companies innovation to remain in the market and be competitive. This paper aims to develop and deepens the topic, providing a Bibliometric-Systematic Literature Review (B-SLR) on knowledge transfer (KT), cooperation and U-I, interactions, links and interdependencies of new research streams. This research pretends to summarize the state of the art of the past literature using a rigorous methodological approach.

Design/methodology/approach

A bibliometric analysis was performed using the Web of Science database, specifically employing Bibliographic Coupling analysis.

Findings

The literature systematization enabled the identification of four distinct clusters: (1) Drivers and Motivational Factors, (2) Specificities in the Selection of Knowledge Transfer Channels, (3) Strategic Challenges and (4) Mechanisms and Contexts.

Originality/value

The analysis highlights significant trends and gaps in current research, providing a comprehensive understanding of the field. Based on the literature analyzed, it was possible to outline lines for future investigation, offering valuable insights for academia and industry practitioners to enhance U-I knowledge transfer.
Optimizing planting density and variety allocation synergistically to improve maize yield and resource utilization efficiency in different agroecological zones of southwest China
Authors: Cheng Yi , Wei Pengcheng , Chen Du , Zheng Yingxia , Song Bi
Published: February 2025

Effective matching between the heat demand of maize varieties and regional resources is essential for achieving high yields. To evaluate the effects of planting density and variety allocation on maize yield and resource utilization efficiency in the different agroecological zones of southwest China, we conducted experiments in five agroecological zones in Guizhou Province. When comparing the same planting density at different sites, grain yield and dry matter accumulation decreased in the following order: Weining, Bijie > Tongren > Anshun and Xingren. Jinyu 838 and Xingzhongyu 801 had a higher yield (12.91 and 12.86 t ha−1) at 82500 plants ha−1 at Weining. The production efficiency for effective accumulated temperature (g m−2 [°C·day]−1) at Weining was higher than that at the other sites. However, the production efficiency for cumulative solar radiation (g MJ−1) at Weining was lower than that at the Anshun and Tongren sites. Moreover, grain yield and dry matter accumulation were positively correlated with the diurnal temperature range, accumulated solar radiation, and number of growing days. Therefore, by optimizing variety and planting density, maize yield and resource utilization efficiency can be improved in areas with large diurnal temperature and high accumulated solar radiation in southwest China.
Pump‐Induced Hemolysis of Speed Modulated Axial‐Flow Left Ventricular Assist Devices
Authors: Borchers Patrick , Österlein Kück Ailín , Leonhardt Steffen , Walter Marian
Published: February 2025

Background

Reduced arterial pulsatility during continuous‐flow left ventricular assist device (LVAD) support is associated with certain adverse events. An approach to increase arterial pulsatility is pump speed modulation. Therefore, this in vitro study compares the pump‐induced hemolysis of constant speed and modulated speed modes for two different axial‐flow LVADs. Furthermore, the hemolytic performance of both LVADs is compared.

Methods

Two Sputnik1 and two HeartMate2 (HM2) axial‐flow LVADs were operated simultaneously for 6 h in automated hemolysis test benches (n = 7 for each mode). Rectangular speed patterns with modulation rates of 70 and 140 bpm were investigated. Speed modulation amplitudes provided head pressures between 80 and 120 mmHg. To quantify hemolysis, plasma‐free hemoglobin was determined every hour and the modified index of hemolysis (MIH) was calculated.

Results

Speed modulation increased all MIH values of the Sputnik1 LVADs, but decreased most MIH values of the HM2 LVADs compared to the constant speed mode. However, significant differences were only observed for one Sputnik1. Furthermore, the Sputnik1 pumps induced lower MIH levels compared to the HM2 pumps using constant speed mode.

Conclusions

It seems that the HM2 can be operated in speed modulation mode without an increased risk of hemolysis. However, for the Sputnik1, the potential benefits of speed modulation must be balanced against the risk of increased hemolysis. The underlying causes need to be investigated in future studies using computational fluid dynamics. Furthermore, using the clinically established constant speed mode, it appears that the Sputnik1 will cause fewer hemolytic issues than the HM2.
An exceptional case of peritoneal cystic echinococcosis in a domestic cat in Australia
Authors: Abdullah S , Kang H , Goodwin S , Dadhich A , McGilp D , Thomson J , Jones MK
Published: February 2025

A case of peritoneal cystic echinococcosis (CE) in a domestic cat was reported from Queensland, Australia. Physical examination of the cat indicated a large, distended abdomen, which when palpated appeared to be fluid‐filled. Ultrasonography showed numerous cysts with hyperechoic walls and anechoic contents within the cat's abdominal cavity. Whole mount microscopy and histology, together with molecular identification of the contents based on mitochondrial DNA gene sequencing indicated that the causative agent was Echinococcus granulosus (sensu stricto) (genotype G1). Moreover, the cat was also found infected with Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV). It is surmised that FeLV‐induced immunosuppression could have led to the development of CE in this cat. This is the first report of CE in a FeLV infected cat in Australia.
Relevance of ecological momentary assessment for medication adherence in clinical settings: A precision psychiatry approach
Authors: Chirokoff Valentine , Tessier Arnaud , Serre Fuschia , Dupuy Maud , Auriacombe Marc , Chanraud Sandra , Berthoz Sylvie , Fatseas Melina , Misdrahi David
Published: February 2025

Background

Medication non‐adherence is a leading cause of treatment failure in psychiatric populations. However, current studies highlight the lack of methodological guidance on medication assessments. Ecological Momentary Assessment (EMA), using smartphone‐based evaluations, shows promise for real‐time monitoring in everyday settings.

Aims

This study evaluated EMA's effectiveness in assessing medication adherence in patients with schizophrenia, depression, and substance use disorders (SUD), covering various treatment regimens.

Materials & Methods

A total of 133 participants (27 with schizophrenia, 20 with depression, 44 with SUDs, and 42 healthy controls) completed EMA via study‐provided smartphones five times daily over 1 week. Treatment regimens, categorized by mono vs. polytherapy and single vs. multiple daily doses, were documented. EMA adherence was calculated from the completion rate of the assessments, while medication adherence was assessed daily for patients. Both mean medication adherence and adherence variation over time were analysed by diagnosis and treatment regimen.

Results

All groups demonstrated high mean EMA and medication adherence, with minor variations across treatment types. Importantly, patients showed improved adherence over time, independently of diagnosis or regimen.

Discussion

These findings indicate EMA's potential as an effective method for capturing medication adherence in psychiatric populations.

Conclusion

The approach's capacity for real‐time, context‐sensitive data collection could reveal adherence patterns and changes not detectable by conventional methods, offering valuable insights for clinical practice.
Sex differences in the vasoactive effect of transient receptor potential channels: TRPM3 as a new therapeutic target for (neuro)vascular disorders
Authors: Rivera‐Mancilla Eduardo , Musterd‐Bhaggoe Usha M. , Schutter Dennis , van den Bogaerdt Antoon , Vincent Arnaud J. P. E. , Villalón Carlos M. , Danser Alexander H. J. , MaassenVanDenBrink Antoinette
Published: February 2025

Background and Purpose

Sex‐dependent vascular effects of transient receptor potential (TRP) channels and sex dimorphism in migraine are not yet fully characterized. We investigated the differential vasoactive effects of TRP ankyrin 1 (TRPA1), TRP melastatin 3 (TRPM3) and TRP vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) channels, their pharmacological mechanism(s), and localization and expression in human isolated blood vessels.

Experimental Approach

Agonist responses to cinnamaldehyde (TRPA1), pregnenolone sulfate (PregS, TRPM3) or capsaicin (TRPV1) were analysed using wire myography in segments of human coronary (HCAs) and middle meningeal (HMMAs) arteries from men and women. The mechanisms involved in these responses were investigated using the antagonists/blockers/inhibitors: HC‐030031 (TRPA1), isosakuranetin (TRPM3), capsazepine (TRPV1), olcegepant (calcitonin gene‐related peptide [CGRP] receptor), L‐NAME (nitric oxide synthase [NOS]), indomethacin (cyclooxygenase [COX]), TRAM‐34 + apamin (K+ channels) or MK‐801 (N‐methyl‐d‐aspartate [NMDA] receptor). Fluorescence microscopy, quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), and western blotting were performed to investigate their location and expression, respectively.

Key Results

In HCAs and HMMAs, (i) capsaicin‐induced relaxation remained unchanged after the above‐mentioned antagonists/blockers/inhibitors and (ii) cinnamaldehyde‐induced relaxation was blocked by olcegepant. PregS‐induced maximal relaxation was significantly enhanced in isolated arteries from females compared with males and was inhibited after isosakuranetin, MK‐801 or L‐NAME. TRPM3 mRNA and protein expression, along with NMDA protein levels, were higher in arteries from females than males.

Conclusion and Implications

Modulation of vascular tone in HCAs and HMMAs by activation of TRPM3 is sex‐dependent, likely involving NMDA receptors. This represents a new therapeutic direction, targeting sex dimorphism in migraine and its related cardiovascular events.
Characterisation of SLC38A8 and Its Role in Retinal Pathways and Disease
Authors: Weiner Chen , Hecht Idan , Lindovsky Jiri , Palkova Marcela , Krupkova Michaela , Kasparek Petr , Prochazka Jan , Sedlacek Radislav , Kotlyar Alina , Raini Nir , Zehavi Yonathan , Yegorov Yevgeni , Hilman Pnina , Basel Ranin , Abu‐Hamed Ramzia , Shomron Noam , Pras Eran
Published: February 2025

Background

This study investigates the role of the SLC38A8 gene. SLC38A8 facilitates glutamine influx, which converts to glutamate in the visual pathway. Mutations in SLC38A8 are associated with FHONDA syndrome, a subtype of foveal hypoplasia with congenital nystagmus and optic‐nerve‐decussation defects without pigmentation leading to severe vision loss.

Methods

In vivo and in vitro methods were conducted using retinal cell lines overexpressing SLC38A8, and Slc38a8/Slc38a7 gene‐edited mice to evaluate visual function and physiological changes. Statistical analyses included two‐way ANOVA, multiple regression, and ANCOVA.

Results

In vitro, SLC38A8 overexpression influenced retinal gene expression, light detection, and visual perception, as well as glutamine and glutamate dynamics. In Y79SNAT8‐OE cells, glutamate levels were significantly higher under light conditions compared to dark conditions at 12 h (3.4 ± 0.16 nmol/μl vs. 3.9 ± 0.17 nmol/μl, p = 0.0011) and 17 h (3.6 ± 0.22 nmol/μl vs. 4.5 ± 0.24 nmol/μl, p = 0.0001), a pattern not observed in control cells. SLC38A8 expression also increased significantly (RQ = 2.1 ± 0.11, p < 0.05) in Y79 cells under glutamine deprivation. In vivo, Slc38a8‐truncated gene mice exhibited altered testicular morphology, with significantly reduced volume (70.9 ± 5.1 mm3 vs. 85.5 ± 6.7 mm3, p = 0.023), and reduced length (4.8 ± 0.2 mm vs. 5.4 ± 0.4 mm, p = 0.0169), alongside degenerative changes in germinal epithelium, and elevated liver enzyme. Despite normal eye morphology, retinal thickness, and visual evoked potentials, electroretinogram and behavioural tests indicated enhanced scotopic responsiveness with significant increases in a‐wave (162.98 ± 14.1 μv vs. 133.9 ± 36.9 μv, p = 1.5e‐07) and b‐wave amplitudes (274.82 ± 25.2 μv vs. 199.9 ± 56.1 μv, p = 3.02e‐09).

Conclusions

Our findings underscore SLC38A8 role in retinal function and glutamine‐glutamate metabolism, with clinical implications for FHONDA and potential future dietary intervention targeting glutamine or glutamate.
Prioritising people who use drugs in health policy: An Australian Capital Territory case study
Authors: Bowles Devin , Yar Elisabeth , van der Sterren Anke
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Governments are increasingly identifying priority populations on which to focus health policy and to measure health and wellbeing outcomes. Prioritising populations that are considered to be higher risk or to have particular needs that may not be captured within the parameters of health policy developed for the general population, is essential to health equity and efficient resource allocation. However, the criteria that governments use for prioritising populations is often vague or unspecified. To date, people who use drugs are almost never identified as a priority population in health policy, despite poor health and wellbeing outcomes.

Methods

We developed three‐pronged criteria—disadvantage, prevalence/accessibility and amenability to change—for prioritising populations in government health policy. We used these criteria to compare people who access alcohol, tobacco and other drug (ATOD) services with populations which are prioritised within the Australian Capital Territory Government's Wellbeing Framework.

Results

Use of the criteria indicates that health policy prioritisation of people who access ATOD services is warranted. People who access ATOD services experienced worse health and wellbeing outcomes across all measures.

Discussion and Conclusions

Given increasingly explicit prioritisation of populations in health policy, there is an opportunity to advance health equity and embed policy efficiency through formal and transparent consideration of which populations to prioritise. Using set criteria for prioritising populations in health policy is possible, and could help identify populations often overlooked for prioritisation, such as people who access ATOD services.
Integrative bioinformatic analysis of prognostic biomarkers in heart failure: Insights from clinical trials
Authors: Bastos José Mesquita , Scala Noemi , Perpétuo Luís , Mele Bruno Hay , Vitorino Rui
Published: February 2025

Background

Heart failure (HF) remains a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Therefore, there is a need to identify robust biomarkers to improve early diagnosis, stratify disease severity and predict outcomes. Biomarkers such as galectin‐3 (Gal‐3), TIMP‐1, BNP, NT‐proBNP, CysC, CA125, ST2 and MMP9 have shown the potential to reflect the pathophysiology of HF. Despite their clinical potential, their integration into routine practice is still limited. The use of bioinformatics may help uncover critical associations between these biomarkers and the progression of HF, providing opportunities for personalized disease management.

Methods

Following PRISMA guidelines, a systematic review of clinical studies was performed using databases with time constraints. The major proteins associated with HF were identified and their diagnostic and prognostic roles were analysed.

Results

The study emphasizes that galectin‐3 (Gal‐3) and TIMP‐1 serve as key indicators of fibrosis and inflammation, while BNP and NT‐proBNP are reliable markers of cardiac stress. Cystatin C (CysC) reflects renal dysfunction, and CA125 correlates strongly with venous congestion. In addition, ST2 and MMP9 provide valuable insights into inflammation and tissue remodelling processes. These biomarkers are consistently elevated in patients with HF, emphasizing their critical role in detecting the systemic and cardiac manifestations of the disease.

Conclusion

Our results emphasize the importance of including biomarkers such as Gal‐3, TIMP‐1, BNP, NT‐proBNP, CysC, CA125, ST2 and MMP9 in the diagnosis and treatment of HF. Their upregulation reflects the complex pathophysiological processes of HF and supports their use in the clinical setting to improve diagnostic accuracy, prognostic precision and personalized therapeutic strategies.
Posture‐Dependent Modulation of Interoceptive Processing in Young Male Participants: A Heartbeat‐Evoked Potential Study
Authors: Dohata Mayu , Kaneko Naotsugu , Takahashi Ryogo , Suzuki Yuya , Nakazawa Kimitaka
Published: February 2025

Interoception, the internal perception of bodily states such as heartbeat and hunger, plays a crucial role in shaping cognitive and emotional states. Since postural control affects cognitive and emotional processing, exploring postural effects on interoception could help uncover the neural mechanisms underlying its effects on cognition and emotion. In this study, we aimed to investigate how different postures affect interoception by using heartbeat‐evoked potentials (HEPs), which reflect the cortical processing of cardiac signals. Two experiments were conducted; Experiment 1 involved 47 healthy male participants comparing sitting and standing postures, and Experiment 2 involved 24 healthy male participants comparing stable and unstable standing conditions. HEPs were analyzed using cluster‐based permutation analysis to identify statistically significant spatiotemporal clusters. In Experiment 1, significant clusters were identified over central electrodes (Cz, C1, C2, FCz, and FC1) within the post‐R‐wave interval of 304–572 ms, revealing significantly lower HEP amplitudes during standing compared to sitting [W = 80, p < 0.001, r = 0.62]. In Experiment 2, HEP amplitudes were significantly lower during unstable standing compared to stable standing [t(20) = 2.9, p = 0.0099, d = 0.62]. Furthermore, we found no significant correlations between HEP changes and physiological changes such as cardiac activity and periodic and aperiodic brain activity. These findings suggest postural differences modulate interoceptive processing, with standing postures attenuating HEP amplitudes, probably because of a redistribution of attentional resources from interoceptive to somatosensory (proprioceptive) and vestibular processing, necessary for maintaining standing posture. This study provides insights into the neural mechanisms underlying posture–interoception interaction.
Hydromethylthionine sustains truncated tau‐dependent inflammation‐lowering effects in mouse brain
Authors: Santos Renato X. , Lee Sophie H. , Lofthouse Richard , Melis Valeria , Robinson Lianne , Leith Michael , Dreesen Eline , Armstrong Paul , Vorley Thomas , Goatman Elizabeth A. , Hull Claire , Riedel Gernot , Wischik Claude M. , Harrington Charles R.
Published: February 2025

Tauopathies are a heterogeneous mixture of neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer's disease and frontotemporal dementia (FTD), characterised by the accumulation of tau filaments in brain tissue. Tau protein aggregation is inhibited by hydromethylthionine (HMT), an effect that appeared to be prevented in clinical trials for subjects already receiving acetylcholinesterase inhibitors or memantine. Since neuroinflammatory responses are associated with tauopathies, we investigated the effect of HMT on the brain immune response and inflammatory status in line 66 (L66) mice, an FTD‐like model overexpressing human tau, in the presence of memantine. We determined whether HMT (5 and 15 mg·kg−1), either singly or combined with memantine (20 mg·kg−1), would have a sustained impact on neuroinflammation following the cessation of drug administration. The levels of core tau fragments in L66+/− mice (P301S/G335D‐hTau) were decreased in a dose‐dependent manner 12 weeks after the last administration of HMT, an effect that was not affected by memantine. HMT lowered the levels of tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF‐α), thus favouring an environment conducive to neuronal protection and repair. HMT sustained increased microglial reactivity after its discontinuation, which may assist in the removal of tau aggregates, but co‐administration with memantine prevented the HMT‐sustained activation of microglia. These findings indicate that HMT has a beneficial effect in reducing neuroinflammation that accompanies a decrease in the accumulation of truncated tau species and that these benefits are not susceptible to interference by memantine. In turn, the nature of drug interference between HMT and memantine seems to be independent of tau and related to microglia reactivity.
HDAC6 inhibition upregulates endothelial SOD3 expression via Sp1 acetylation and attenuates angiotensin II‐induced hypertension
Authors: Chi Zhexi , Do Van Quan , Kausar Rukhsana , Kim Hyun Kyung , Nguyen Nga Thi Thanh , Le Truc Phan Hoang , Lee Jungwoo , Baek In‐Jeoung , Lee Sang‐Wook , Kim Jae Hyung , Lee Sang Yoon
Published: February 2025

Extracellular superoxide dismutase (SOD3) plays an important role in maintaining vascular redox homeostasis by eliminating superoxides. The angiotensin II (AngII) peptide mediates vasoconstriction in part via reactive oxygen species (ROS) but has pathologic effects when elevated in adults. Histone deacetylase 6 (HDAC6) modulates the acetylation of non‐histone substrates and is associated with hypertensive disorders. Here, we investigated the potential regulation of SOD3 by HDAC6 in human aortic endothelial cells (HAECs) and its implications for AngII‐induced oxidative stress and hypertension. HDAC6 inhibition (via the specific inhibitor tubastatin A (TubA), gene knockdown, or a deacetylase activity‐deficient mutant) significantly increased SOD3 protein and mRNA expression but did not affect SOD1 or SOD2 protein levels. Conversely, AngII downregulated SOD3 levels and increased ROS and superoxide levels; these effects were antagonized by TubA. We confirmed that the transcription factor Sp1 mediates TubA‐induced as well as basal SOD3 expression. Notably, TubA strongly augmented Sp1 acetylation at lysine 703, which activated Sp1 binding to the proximal SOD3 promoter region and, consequently, SOD3 expression. Alternatively, AngII decreased Sp1 acetylation, and TubA‐mediated SOD3 induction was reduced upon overexpression of an acetylation‐resistant Sp1 mutant (K703R) compared to that by the wild‐type protein. Consistent with these findings, aortic SOD3 expression was significantly higher in HDAC6‐deficient mice than in wild‐type mice. Moreover, AngII infusion‐mediated blood pressure elevation was reduced in HDAC6‐deficient mice compared with that in wild‐type mice. Collectively, our results suggest that HDAC6 inhibition leads to SOD3 upregulation by enhancing Sp1 acetylation in HAECs, thereby mitigating AngII‐induced oxidative stress and hypertension.
A Novel 5‐Probe FISH Strategy is Better Equipped for a More Comprehensive and Cost‐Effective Risk Stratification of BCP‐ALL
Authors: Singh Manish K. , Nair Arun S. , Pandey Akshita , Sharma Vineet , Rahman Khaliqur , Gupta Ruchi , Chandra Dinesh , Yadav Sanjeev , Kashyap Rajesh , Arun S. R. , Parihar Mayur
Published: February 2025

Objective

The modern treatment protocols in B‐cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia (BCP‐ALL) are based on the disease's genetic characteristics and response to treatment. We propose a novel five‐probe FISH strategy to risk stratify the BCP‐ALL and compare its ability with the triple trisomy probe strategy to detect high hyperdiploidy.

Methods

All newly diagnosed BCP‐ALL cases were investigated using a five‐probe FISH panel that included probes targeting BCR::ABL1 fusion, ETV6::RUNX1 fusion, and break‐apart probes for KMT2A, IgH, and CRLF2 rearrangements. Further, a selected number of cases were screened by the triple trisomy probe of 4p11/CEN10/17 (Zytovision, Bremerhaven, Germany) to identify aneuploidy.

Results

Of the 380 patients of BCP‐ALL screened (≤ 18 years: 57.9%; > 18 years: 42.1%) using this five‐probe strategy, we could assign clinically relevant eight risk groups to almost two‐thirds of the patients (similar to the available literature). Compared with the widely accepted triple trisomy probe strategy, we found concordant findings in 75.5% of the patients; the triple trisomy probe could not identify high hyperdiploidy in 24.5% of patients. We observed the presence of (non‐CRLF2) IgH rearrangement in 5.3% of patients.

Conclusions

We conclude that the proposed five‐probe FISH strategy is better equipped to more comprehensively risk stratify BCP‐ALL patients, with an increased ability to identify high hyperdiploidy and a subset of Ph‐like‐BCP‐ALL.
Attitudes Toward Cybervetting in Germany: Impact on Organizational Attractiveness Depends on Social Media Platform
Authors: Schäpers Philipp , Mönke Franz W. , Frieler Chiara‐Maria , Roulin Nicolas , Basch Johannes
Published: February 2025

Cybervetting, assessing social media in personnel selection, is widely used. However, individuals concerned often perceive this practice negatively. We propose that attitudes toward cybervetting may depend on the platform used and the cultural context. Thus, we transfer the attitudes toward cybervetting scale to a context with strict data regulations: Germany. In an online between‐subjects experiment with platform users and non‐users (N = 100 working professionals and students), we examined attitudes toward cybervetting on different social media platforms (professional: LinkedIn vs. personal: Instagram) and their relationship with organizational attractiveness. We found that German participants viewed cybervetting on professional platforms with more skepticism than American participants. Hierarchical regression analysis revealed higher perceived fairness, lower invasion of privacy, and higher organizational attractiveness when cybervetting was done on professional platforms.
Latin America's Nonlinear Monetary Response to Pandemic Inflation
Authors: Guerra Rafael , Kamin Steven B. , Kearns John , Upper Christian , Vakil Aatman
Published: February 2025

This paper estimates empirical Taylor rules to analyze the recent monetary policy of the five main Latin American inflation‐targeting central banks. We find that during the inflationary surge of 2021–2023, monetary policy reacted more strongly and more quickly to changes in inflation than predicted by a standard linear Taylor rule, estimated on data from the prepandemic period. Although this appears to represent a shift in the monetary reaction function, we think it more likely that Latin American central banks have been following a nonlinear strategy, responding more aggressively to inflation, the higher it rose. We confirmed this by adding the square of inflation to the Taylor rule model: its coefficient was positive and significant, indicating that policy interest rates exhibited a nonlinear response to inflation, even during the prepandemic period, and the model did a better job of predicting the sharp rise in interest rates during 2021–2023.
How Hiring Process Satisfaction Influences Nursing Staff's Willingness to Recommend Their Organisation: A Mixed Methods Study
Authors: Shukla Kasturi , Mondal Shuvhra , Prasad Megha , Jadhav Sammita
Published: February 2025

Aim

Recruitment of nurses is driven by peer recommendation for which effective hiring and onboarding processes are crucial. The present study evaluates the association between Nurse's satisfaction with hiring process and their intention to recommend the organisation.

Study Design

This mixed‐methods study was conducted in a 550‐bed tertiary‐care hospital in New Delhi, India among the nursing staff from June'2023‐February'2024.

Methods

Recently joined Nurses (last 1.5 years) who agreed to participate were included. Satisfaction with the hiring processes was assessed through 20 items and an additional item assessed the ‘intention to recommend the organisation’ (dependent variable). One‐sample t‐test was used to test the variations within the sample. Pearson's correlations were computed between dependent and independent variables. Variables with statistically significant correlations were entered in the Linear Regression model to identify the predictors of intention to recommend. From the same cohort, a few nurses were invited to participate in the qualitative study. Through thematic content analysis we identified the categories for the final model.

Results

Out of 180 newly joined nurses, 171 agreed to participate. Overall hiring Satisfaction was moderate. Selection round and document verification scored the lowest whereas the overall intention to recommend the organisation was above average. Vacancy notification and Induction and onboarding showed strong correlations with the intention to recommend and were its strongest predictors. Qualitative results revealed three main themes—Information provided during hiring, Knowledge enhancement opportunities and Employee centeredness which had a predominance on the intention to recommend.

Conclusion

Providing unambiguous information, positive work atmosphere, growth opportunities and recognition systems creates a strong intention to recommend the organisation.

Impact

The hospitals should focus on information transparency during hiring and later on knowledge enhancement to create a positive intention to recommend. Further, studies are required to validate these findings in other settings.

Patient/Public Contribution

No Patient/Public Involvement.
Easy Read… Easy English… Plain Language? Decision‐Making in the Production of ‘Easy’ Information in Australia
Authors: Meltzer Ariella , Barnes Emma , Wehbe Ayah
Published: February 2025

Background

In Australia, several formats of written information are made for people with intellectual disability and/or low literacy, such as Easy Read, Easy English and Plain Language. More understanding is however required about the decision‐making behind their features, as it is not always clear which formats use which features or for what reasons.

Method

Twelve semi‐structured interviews were conducted with leaders/senior staff in Australian accessible information provider organisations who make ‘easy’ information. Data were thematically‐analysed, via a two‐stage deductive‐inductive process.

Results

The results show overlaps between different ‘easy’ information formats in Australia. ‘Easy’ information provider organisations make choices about what reading‐level and images to use based how they see their envisioned audience using the information and what will make their envisioned audience feel recognised/empowered.

Conclusions

No single ‘easy’ format will suit everyone. ‘Easy’ information providers need to be more specific about the audience and associated features of their products.
Prediction of Spatial Distribution of Debris‐Flow Hit Probability Considering the Source‐Location Uncertainty
Authors: Yamanoi Kazuki , Oishi Satoru , Kawaike Kenji
Published: February 2025

Debris‐flow affected area is typically predicted using runout simulations, often estimating the hydrograph from rainfall conditions. However, rainfall is rarely considered when predicting initiation locations, which influence the occurrence number and location. This study proposes a hybrid method combining statistical source‐location prediction based on rainfall conditions and runout simulations inputting the predicted source locations. First, logistic regression is used to predict the spatial probability of debris‐flow initiation with rainfall as an input. Next, Monte Carlo simulation based on the initiation location generated from the rainfall‐based probability yields the spatial distribution of the debris‐flow hit probability. Simulation parameters are systematically determined in advance based on topographic change obtained via aerial LiDAR observations. This method was successfully employed to estimate the spatial distribution of the debris‐flow hit probability at 1‐m resolution for a debris‐flow disaster that occurred in Hiroshima prefecture, Japan, using rainfall data obtained by radar. The simulation time indicated that hit probability can be issued prior to the event for early warning, owing to the adequate lead time of rainfall forecasts and recent developments in computational technology. The hit probability obtained in this study can be also applied to risk quantification based on rainfall conditions.