bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Retzius‐sparing radical prosatectomy: First 200 Australian cases
Authors: Gianduzzo Troy Richard John , Dundee Philip Ellard
Published: February 2025

Objectives

The objective of this study is to report the first multi‐centred Australian series of 200 cases of Retzius‐sparing radical prostatectomy (RSRP).

Patients and methods

Between April 2017 and June 2024, 200 RSRP procedures (197 robotic, three laparoscopic) were performed separately by the authors in five centres across two Australian cities (Melbourne, Victoria and Brisbane, Queensland). Data were collected prospectively with ethics committee approval (UCH‐HREC 2019.01.279) at weeks 1, 4–6, and three‐monthly. Exclusion criteria included prostate size >80 cc, significant middle lobe, large anterior tumour, previous TURP or any clinical factor deemed to make RSRP unsuitable. These criteria were relaxed as experience was gained.

Results

Median (interquartile range) age, body mass index and PSA were 65 (60–70) years, 26 (25–29) kg/m2 and 5.2 (4.0–7.0) ng/mL. Low, intermediate and high D'Amico risk groups were 3.5%, 75.0% and 21.5%, respectively. Median (interquartile range) skin‐to‐skin operative time was 163 (125–210) min and blood loss 200 (100–350) mL. There were 17 (8.5%) Clavien–Dindo grade 1–2 complications and 8 (4%) grade 3 complications. Final pT stage was 60.5% pT2 and 39.5% pT3. The overall positive surgical margins (PSM) rate was 14.5% including 3.3% pT2 and 29.1% pT3. At 1 week post catheter removal 53.5% were pad‐free, increasing to 58.5% and 65.0% at 4 and 6 weeks, then 79.5%, 84.6%, 88.2% and 91.3% at 3, 6, 9 and 12 months, respectively. When a security pad is included, 71.5% and 85.5% of men were continent at 4 and 6 weeks, then 94%, 96%, 96% and 97% at 3, 6, 9 and 12 months, respectively. Three men required a suburethral sling and one an artificial urinary sphincter. Ninety of 140 (60.4%) preoperatively potent men were potent at 12 months with or without phosphodiesterase‐5 inhibitors.

Conclusion

RSRP provides excellent early continence and can be introduced safely with good oncological results by experienced minimally‐ invasive surgeons.
Impact of pre‐stenting and bladder dranaige on intrapelvic pressure during retrograde intrarenal surgery
Authors: Yeni Sezgin , Kilicarslan Hakan , Ocakoglu Gokhan , Coskun Burhan , Cicek Mehmet Cagatay , Gunseren Kadir Omur , Yavascaoglu Ismet , Kaygisiz Onur
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This study aims to assess the effect of pre‐stenting and bladder drainage on intrapelvic pressure (IP) during Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery (RIRS).

Methods

Eighty‐five consecutive patients were prospectively enrolled and meticulously recorded in a data form. Forty‐two patients meeting the inclusion criteria after applying exclusion factors. The patients were divided into two groups: Group 1 (21 patients with preoperative JJ stents) and Group 2 (21 patients without preoperative JJ stents). IP was measured during RIRS, and the impact of various factors, including pre‐stenting, bladder drainage and hydronephrosis (HN) grade, on IP was analysed through univariate and multiple linear regression.

Results

The perioperative mean highest IP (78 ± 18.2 mmHg vs. 110 ± 23.9 mmHg), median lowest IP (29 mmHg vs. 42 mmHg) and median overall IP (41 mmHg vs. 69 mmHg) were significantly lower in Group 1 compared to Group 2 (all p < 0.001). Multivariate analysis showed that pre‐stenting and mild HN (Grade 0–1) were independent predictors of reduced IP.

Conclusion

Pre‐stenting led to a significant reduction in IP during RIRS, likely due to passive ureteral dilation. Additionally, bladder drainage with urethral catheter further decreased IP. These findings suggest that pre‐stenting and bladder drainage should be considered as strategies to reduce IP during RIRS, potentially improving surgical outcomes.
Variants in Chromatin Remodeling Genes Are Involved in Patients With Chiari Malformation Type 1
Authors: Romano Ferruccio , Cerminara Maria , De Marco Patrizia , Iacomino Michele , Di Duca Marco , Tortora Domenico , Pavanello Marco , Piatelli Gianluca , Scala Marcello , Zara Federico , Puliti Aldamaria , Capra Valeria
Published: February 2025

Objectives

Chiari malformation type 1 (CMI) is defined by the herniation of cerebellar tonsils of 5 mm or more, with possible neurological consequences, including compression of the neural tissue and/or anomalies in cerebral spinal fluid circulation. The etiology of CMI is not fully elucidated, with both genetic and environmental factors being involved. Several genes and pathways involved in bone development are pointed out like genes of the WNT, FGF, and BMP signaling pathways. More recently, the crucial role played by chromatin remodeling genes in the pathogenesis of CMI has increasingly emerged.

Methods

In this paper, we discuss a familial case of CMI and a single patient, harboring variants in chromatin remodeling genes, identified by whole exome sequencing.

Results

The first is a family with three affected members and one sibling with a cerebellar tonsil herniation of < 5 mm. The three CMI patients harbor a heterozygous missense variant in the SETD2 gene, whose truncating variants are responsible for Luscan–Lumish syndrome. A second variant in HP1BP3, a gene not previously associated with human pathology, with evidence of skeletal anomalies in mice models, was found in the three patients and also in the girl with a herniation of < 5 mm. The second case is a proband with a de novo variant in KMT2A, associated with Wiedemann–Steiner syndrome, in which anomalies of the craniocervical junction are described.

Discussion

We highlight the importance of chromatin remodeling genes in both isolated and syndromic CMI and suggest the potential role of HP1BP3 as a possible modifier gene in CMI pathogenesis, even if this association needs to be further clarified.
Chromatography in Downstream Processing of Recombinant Adeno‐Associated Viruses: A Review of Current and Future Practises
Authors: Lorek Julius Klemens , Isaksson Madelène , Nilsson Bernt
Published: February 2025

Recombinant adeno‐associated virus (rAAV) has emerged as an attractive gene delivery vector platform to treat both rare and pervasive diseases. With more and more rAAV‐based therapies entering late‐stage clinical trials and commercialization, there is an increasing pressure on the rAAV manufacturing process to accelerate drug development, account for larger trials, and commercially provide high doses. Still, many of the pre‐clinical and clinical manufacturing processes are tied to outdated technologies, which results in substantial production expenses. Those processes face challenges including low productivity and difficult scalability, which limits its ability to provide for required dosages which in turn influences the accessibility of the drug. And as upstream efforts are expected to increase productivities, the downstream part needs to adapt with more scalable and efficient technologies. In this review, both traditional and novel rAAV downstream technologies are presented and discussed. Traditional rAAV downstream processes are based on density gradient ultracentrifugation and have been shown to effectively purify rAAVs with high yields and purities. However, those processes lack scalability and efficiency, which is why novel rAAV downstream processes based on column‐chromatography have emerged as an attractive alternative and show potential for integration in continuous processes, following the principle of next‐generation manufacturing.
Nonparametric Threshold Estimation of Autocorrelated Statistics in Multivariate Statistical Process Monitoring
Authors: Grimm Taylor R. , Newhart Kathryn B. , Hering Amanda S.
Published: February 2025

Multivariate statistical process monitoring is commonly used to detect abnormal process behavior in real time. Multiple process variables are monitored simultaneously, and alarms are issued when monitoring statistics exceed a predetermined threshold. Traditional approaches use a parametric threshold based on the assumptions of independence and multivariate normality of the process data, which are often violated in complex processes with high sampling frequencies, leading to excessive false alarms. Some approaches for improved threshold selection have been proposed, but they assume independence of the monitoring statistics, which are often autocorrelated. In this paper, we compare the performance of nonparametric estimators for computing thresholds from autocorrelated monitoring statistics through simulation. The false alarm rate and in‐control average run length of each estimator under different distributions, sample sizes, and autocorrelation levels and types are found. Estimator performance is found to depend on sample size and the strength of autocorrelation. The class of kernel density estimation (KDE) methods tends to perform better than estimators that use bootstrapping, and the proposed adjusted KDE methods that account for autocorrelation are recommended for general use. A case study to monitor a wastewater treatment facility further illustrates the performance of nonparametric and parametric thresholds when applied to real‐world systems.
Unser Energiedilemma – Gedanken und Bestandsaufnahme
Authors: Bertau Martin , Hofmann Wilfried , Holze Rudolf , Kärger Jörg , Krautscheid Harald , Müller‐Bechtel Susanne , Scheffler Michael , Schirmer Uwe , Schmidt Christian
Published: February 2025

Das Thema Energiewende ist äußerst komplex, beinhaltet eine Vielzahl an Energieumwandlungspfaden von Energiequellen bis zur Verwendung nutzbarer Energieformen und stellt allein mit seinen Kombinationsmöglichkeiten von Energiequellen und Energiewandlern und deren Kopplung eine extreme Herausforderung dar. Die Komplexität erhöht sich, wenn Sekundärenergieträger auch zur Stoffwandlung in der chemischen Industrie genutzt werden können und das nur kleine Zeitfenster zum Übergang von fossilen Energiequellen zu erneuerbaren Energiequellen Handlungsweisen erheblich einschränkt. Daraus resultieren überwiegend widersprüchliche Herangehensweisen, große Verunsicherung in der Gesellschaft und oft wenig zielführende Diskussionen. Der vorliegende Beitrag, der im Rahmen eines Symposiums der Sächsischen Akademie der Wissenschaften zu Leipzig zum Thema entstanden ist, präsentiert einen Einblick in die Herkunft von Energie, in Wandlungstechnologien, beispielhaft auch in die hohe Komplexität elektrischer Versorgungsnetze, zeigt exemplarisch auf, wie Aufklärung in die Gesellschaft hinein geleistet werden kann und wirft die Frage auf, ob am etablierten Modell des Tausches von Arbeitszeit gegen Geld festgehalten werden kann oder ob die wichtige Frage der Energie in einem künftigen Modell zu berücksichtigen wäre.
Betreiberpflichten aus der neuen Maschinenverordnung
Authors: Teller‐Weyers Max , Bott Jochen
Published: February 2025

Die Verordnung (EU 2023/1230), auch bekannt als die neue Maschinenverordnung, bringt bedeutende Änderungen mit sich. Sie zielt darauf ab, die Sicherheit und Transparenz im Maschinenbau und für Betreiber zu erhöhen sowie die rechtlichen Rahmenbedingungen an die modernen technologischen Entwicklungen anzupassen. Zu den wichtigsten Neuerungen gehören die Integration von Künstlicher Intelligenz (KI) und Cybersicherheit sowie die Digitalisierung von Dokumenten.
Staubexplosionsschutz vor Ort
Authors: Maul Torben
Published: February 2025

Eine Risikobewertung vor Ort ist für den sicheren Umgang mit brennbaren Stäuben gemäß der ATEX 153 Richtlinie unerlässlich. Experten unterstützen dabei, Unsicherheiten zu beseitigen und effiziente Schutzmaßnahmen zu implementieren. Durch eine gründliche Vorbereitung und Zusammenarbeit aller Beteiligten kann die Risikobewertung effizient und produktiv gestaltet werden.
Schneller Gefahrstoffcheck für Stoffe und Gemische
Authors: Huck Bettina
Published: February 2025

Am 5. Dezember 2024 ist die Novelle der Gefahrstoffverordnung in Kraft getreten. Die wesentlichen Änderungen betreffen Tätigkeiten mit krebserzeugenden, keimzellmutagenen und reproduktionstoxischen Stoffen (KMR‐Stoffe) sowie Asbest. Ziel ist es, die Prävention arbeitsbedingter Krebserkrankungen zu verbessern. Unternehmen müssen ihre bestehenden Maßnahmen überprüfen und anpassen, um den neuen Anforderungen gerecht zu werden.
Synthesis and antibacterial properties of 3‐amino‐β‐lactams bearing a heteroatom‐containing C4 substituent
Authors: Bredael Kato , Vanhecke Fien , Vandenheede Emma , Stevens Christian V. , Gobec Stanislav , D'hooghe Matthias
Published: February 2025

The rise of antimicrobial resistance has spurred the search for innovative antibiotics, with monocyclic 3‐amino‐β‐lactams – aztreonam standing out as key example – showing significant potential. In particular, C4‐functionalized 3‐amino‐β‐lactams have emerged as a promising subclass that can potentially improve the activity, stability and cellular permeability of the compounds. This review outlines various synthetic methodologies available for the construction of 3‐amino‐β‐lactams bearing a heteroatom‐containing substituent at C4, with the heteroatom connected to the ring system either directly or via a methylene bridge. Special attention is devoted to 3‐amino‐4‐hydroxymethyl‐β‐lactams and 3‐amino‐4‐acetoxy‐β‐lactams as versatile synthetic intermediates. Moreover, the effect of these C4 substituents on the biological activity of the corresponding 3‐amino‐β‐lactams is discussed in detail. A better understanding of synthetic protocols and antibacterial properties related to this underexplored class of monocyclic 3‐amino‐β‐lactams might contribute to address the current antibiotics problems we are facing more efficiently.
Discovery of Hydrazine Clubbed Thiazoles as Potential Antidiabetic Agents: Synthesis, Biological Evaluation, and Molecular Docking Studies
Authors: Kaya Betül , Tahtacı Hakan , Çiftçi Bilge , Duran Hatice Esra , Necip Adem , Işık Mesut , Beydemir Şükrü
Published: February 2025

In this study, hydrazine clubbed thiazole derivatives (3a–3j) were obtained by Hantzsch thiazole synthesis and characterized by MS, 1H NMR, and 13C NMR. The inhibitory potentials of the derivatives against diabetes‐related enzymes such as aldose reductase (AR), α‐glycosidase (α‐GLY), and α‐amylase (α‐AMY) were experimentally determined, and the results were supported by molecular docking. The results showed that the derivatives (3a–3j) displayed varied degree of potential inhibitory activity, with KI values covering the following ranges: 5.47 ± 0.53 to 23.89 ± 1.46 nM for AR and 1.76 ± 0.01 to 24.81 ± 0.15 μM for α‐GLY, and with IC50 values 4.94–28.17 μM for α‐AMY, as compared to standard epalrestat and acarbose (KI: 34.53 ± 2.52 nM for AR and 23.53 ± 2.72 μM for α‐GLY, respectively). The selective activity of these derivatives on antidiabetic enzymes may be important for the treatment of diabetes and may lead to the development of alternative new compounds for this purpose.
A 19th Century Stormwrecked Black‐Capped Petrel From Vermont Offers Insight Into Historical Vagrancy Processes
Authors: Patrick Oliver W. , Chalfin‐Jacobs Max , Lyu Arthur , Smith Jody , Foutch Ellery , Mychajliw Alexis M.
Published: February 2025

Specimens stored within museum collections are increasingly leveraged to reconstruct historical baselines to both decipher the legacies of past anthropogenic impacts and anticipate the consequences of future climate change on species distributions. However, the research significance of such collections can be severely constrained based on their curation histories, resulting in data being forgotten, if not lost entirely. In this Nature Note, we report the unexpected presence of a mislabeled Black‐capped Petrel (Pterodroma hasitata) specimen in the historical Middlebury College Vertebrate Natural History collection, potentially representing the rediscovery of a lost specimen reported from Vermont following the 1893 New York City Hurricane. We conducted archival research at multiple institutions to substantiate the reporting of a Black‐capped Petrel specimen that was “missing” from Vermont in 1893, as noted in the Vermont Breeding Bird Atlas. We further substantiated the 19th‐century age of this specimen through X‐ray fluorescence analysis of mercury and arsenic of more than 200 whole bird bodies and feathers across the majority of the Middlebury College collection as part of an environmental health and safety assessment. This record expands the known vagrant range of the Black‐capped Petrel. This research likewise highlights the critical role of small museum collections play in piecing together historical datasets and informing modern conservation, emphasizing the importance of their preservation and digitization.
Functional Traits and Phylogenetic Effects Drive Germination of Lemur‐Passed Seeds
Authors: DeSisto Camille M. M. , Zandry Zico , Feno Telesy , Zareiesafandabadi Borna , Randrianasy Jean , Tiamanana Jean , Randrianasolo Dominique , Rasolofo Manadina , Raveloson George , Zerimanana Franclin , Razafindratsima Onja , Herrera James P. , Poulsen John R.
Published: February 2025

Frugivore‐mediated seed dispersal drives ecological functioning across tropical forests. The biological mechanisms affecting seed dispersal outcomes, as well as the role of specific functional traits in plants and their dispersers, is still not well understood. To address this gap, we conducted germination experiments in eight species of captive and two species of wild lemurs, which disperse different plant species. We (1) quantified the effects of pulp removal, seed priming, and feces effects (nutrient/microbial fertilization) through gut passage as mechanisms, (2) determined the effect of frugivore species on germination, and (3) assessed how individual plant and animal traits affected two seed germination outcomes: success rates and time‐to‐germination. Accounting for phylogenetic non‐independence of plants and estimating phylogenetic signal, we evaluated the effects of lemur gut passage and functional traits in a Bayesian framework. Seed priming during gut passage was the primary mechanism through which lemurs improved germination rates and decreased time‐to‐germination. Gut passage influenced the effect of seed length on germination probability but not time‐to germination. Germination outcomes varied by disperser species and seed size. Furthermore, seeds passed by male lemurs were 40% more likely to germinate than those passed by female lemurs. Germination probability was more similar for closely related plant species compared to those that were more distantly related, while the plant phylogenetic effects on time‐to‐germination were weaker. Moreover, germination depended on experimental setting; for example, lemur gut passage decreased time‐to‐germination in captive, but not wild settings. Our results highlight the complexity of biological mechanisms determining seed dispersal outcomes; ecological and evolutionary factors were important drivers of germination. Considering a diversity of potential effects is critical for advancing a mechanistic understanding of species interactions and their outcomes.
Cardiac magnetic resonance left atrioventricular coupling index as a prognostic tool in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
Authors: Wen Jinyang , Tu Junhao , Tao Xinwei , Tang Yuanyuan , Yang Zhaoxia , Pan Ziyi , Luo Yi , Xiang Chunlin , Tang Dazhong , Huang Lu , Xia Liming
Published: February 2025

Aims

A novel marker left atrioventricular coupling index (LACI) has been proved to be associated with cardiovascular events in patients without history of cardiovascular disease. However, the studies on cardiac magnetic resonance‐derived LACI in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) patients are limited, and the prognostic value of LACI has still not been studied thoroughly, so we aimed to explore the association between LACI and adverse clinical outcomes in HCM patients.

Methods

A total of 206 HCM patients underwent cardiac magnetic resonance examination were retrospectively enrolled. LACI is defined by the ratio between the left atrial (LA) volume and the left ventricular (LV) volume in LV end‐diastolic phase. The composite endpoint was categorized into death‐related, heart failure‐related, and arrhythmia‐related events, reflecting mortality risk, heart failure progression, and arrhythmia burden, respectively. Receiver operating characteristics curve analysis was used to determine the optimal cut‐off value for LACI to distinguish HCM patients at high risk of adverse clinical outcome. Multivariable Cox regression models were built including significant clinical variables, LA ejection fraction (LAEF), LA volume index (LAVI), late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) extent and LACI. The improvement of discrimination by adding LACI to a clinical model was assessed using C‐statistic, net reclassification improvement (NRI) and integrated discrimination improvement (IDI).

Results

Thirty‐four HCM patients reached the endpoint during a median follow‐up time of 60 [interquartile range (50–68)] months. In the multivariate Cox regression analysis, LACI [hazard ratio 1.054, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.037, 1.071; P < 0.001] was an independent predictor of the composite events after adjustment for age and atrial fibrillation. Then 40.09% was identified as an optimal cut‐off for LACI in the risk stratification. Integrating LACI to the clinical model yielded higher C‐statistic 0.892 with 95% CI (0.861, 0.922) compared with LA diameter, LAEF, LAVI and LGE extent, providing an improvement in prediction of high‐risk patients (NRI = 0.627, 95% CI: 0.112–0.934; IDI = 0.295, 95% CI: 0.016–0.709).

Conclusions

LACI is an independent risk factor for clinical adverse outcome and is superior to conventional LA parameters and LGE extent for the identification of high‐risk HCM patients.
Optimal Beamforming for Covert Communication in MIMO Relay Systems
Authors: Zhu He , Wu Huihui , Shen Yulong , Jiang Xiaohong
Published: February 2025

This paper investigates the optimal beamforming design for covert communication in a multiple‐input multiple‐output (MIMO) relay system consisting of source, destination, relay and warden. For both scenarios when each transmitting node knows the perfect or partial warden's channel state information (CSI), we first develop theoretical models to depict the inherent relationship between the beamforming matrices at source/relay and end‐to‐end covert performance of the system regard the minimum detection error probability and covert capacity. Based on these models, we then formulate the optimal beamforming for covert capacity maximization under perfect and partial CSI as linear non‐convex (LNC) and non‐linear non‐convex (NLNC) optimization problems, respectively. We then apply Lagrangian and Hadamard inequality methods to solve the LNC optimization problem to determine the closed‐form expressions for the optimal beamforming matrices at source/relay, based on which a stochastic gradient descent algorithm is developed to evaluate the maximum covert capacity. For the complicated NLNC problem, we propose an efficient search algorithm based on S‐procedure lemma and interior point methods to identify the optimal beamforming matrices to reach the maximum covert capacity. Finally, we provide extensive numerical results to illustrate the covert performance enhancement from adopting the optimal beamforming in MIMO relay systems.
Berries: Health Effects via Modulation of the Gut Microbiota
Authors: Xu Manjin , Xu Yunfeng , Wu Lizhi , Niu Huixia , Gao Bei , Sun Kai , Li Xueqing , Xing Mingluan , Mo Zhe , Chen Zhijian , Tu Pengcheng , Lou Xiaoming
Published: February 2025

Berries are widely regarded as beneficial foods, rich in polyphenols, flavonoids, and other bioactive compounds that could positively influence human health. Although the gut microbiota plays a crucial role in metabolism and physiology of humans, the interaction between berries and human gut microbiota activity remains unclear. This review systematically summarizes the antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, and gut microbiota‐regulating effects of various berries. It focuses on the impact of berries on several related metabolic diseases in addition to adverse outcomes associated with environmental exposures from the perspective of modulation of the gut microbiota. Overall, berries may actively modulate the gut microbiota, influencing the composition of the microbiota especially production of bioactive metabolites, thereby conferring health effects. This review aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of health impact of berries via interactions with the gut microbiota, offering insights into the potential application of berries in maintaining human health.
Lived Experience of Regional and Remote Food Systems: Barriers to and Enablers of Food Access in Western Australia
Authors: Godrich Stephanie L. , Doe Jess , Goodwin Sarah , Stoneham Melissa , Devine Amanda
Published: February 2025

Issue Addressed

To understand community and stakeholder perceptions of food supply chains in regional and remote Western Australia (WA).

Methods

This qualitative study used 19 focus groups with 61 food system stakeholders and 31 community members to understand barriers to and enablers of food supply and perspectives of what good food supply chains look like. A thematic analysis of focus group transcripts was conducted.

Results

Barriers included regulatory hurdles, lack of local facilities, limited food delivery, high food costs and lack of skill‐sharing. Enablers included employment options, individual food processing skills, quality local food, local food awareness and emergency food relief. Participants envisioned a sustainable, affordable, adaptable and efficient food supply chain with local food access, food literacy, home food growing, culturally appropriate food, strong food supply actor relationships, waste management and food supply chain career opportunities.

Conclusions and Implications

Recommendations include establishing Food Action Groups (also known as Food Policy Councils) in WA, to facilitate more opportunities for regionally‐produced food to be sold within regional WA communities to increase food availability, quality and reduce price; and enhance food literacy in schools, workplaces and communities using evidence‐based programs.

So what?

This article provides lived experience perspectives of regional and remote food supply, illuminating key issues across each step of the food supply chain.
Shaping Effective Food Action Groups: Participant Perspectives on Structure and Stakeholder Involvement in Regional and Remote Western Australia
Authors: Godrich Stephanie L. , Goodwin Sarah , Doe Jess , Stoneham Melissa , Devine Amanda
Published: February 2025

Issue Addressed

Food systems strongly influence food security outcomes. Food Action Groups (often termed Food Policy Councils/Coalitions/Networks internationally) offer a co‐ordinated and collaborative approach to local food system issues. Their organisational structure and stakeholder membership significantly impact their focus and impact. Therefore, it is imperative to understanding community member and food system stakeholders' perspectives on how regional and remote Australian Food Action Groups should be structured to maximise their impact on local food systems, and identify the most appropriate stakeholders to facilitate and drive their action.

Methods

A qualitative study using focus groups, was conducted in regional and remote townships across Western Australian regions of Peel, South West, Great Southern, Wheatbelt, Midwest (including Gascoyne), Goldfields, Pilbara, and Kimberley. Participants were community members and food system stakeholders. Focus group transcript data were thematically analysed.

Results

A formal structure with sustainable funding was important for Food Action Groups, as was adopting a bottom‐up approach with local community needs driving the agenda, supported by an adaptable and responsive work plan. Involving community members and ensuring a diverse membership were viewed as critical to their success.

Conclusions

To effectively address local needs, Food Action Groups should adopt a formal structure with clear processes and involve a diverse group of community stakeholders. This would leverage local knowledge and evidence to guide actions and set well‐informed priorities.

So What

The establishment of Australian Food Action Groups in regional and remote Australia has potential to follow suit of their US, Canada and UK predecessors, improve regional food systems and influence government policies.
Comammox Nitrospira act as key bacteria in weakly acidic soil via potential cobalamin sharing
Authors: Zhao Yuxiang , Hu Jiajie , Wang Jiaqi , Yao Xiangwu , Zhang Tong , Hu Baolan
Published: February 2025

The discovery of comammox Nitrospira in low pH environments has reshaped the ammonia oxidation process in acidic settings, providing a plausible explanation for the higher nitrification rates observed in weakly acidic soils. However, the response of comammox Nitrospira to varying pH levels and its ecological role in these environments remains unclear. Here, a survey across soils with varying pH values (ranging from 4.4 to 9.7) was conducted to assess how comammox Nitrospira perform under different pH conditions. Results showed that comammox Nitrospira dominate ammonia oxidation in weakly acidic soils, functioning as a K‐strategy species characterized by slow growth and stress tolerance. As a key species in this environment, comammox Nitrospira may promote bacterial cooperation under low pH conditions. Genomic evidence suggested that cobalamin sharing is a potential mechanism, as comammox Nitrospira uniquely encode a metabolic pathway that compensates for cobalamin imbalance in weakly acidic soils, where 86.8% of metagenome‐assembled genomes (MAGs) encode cobalamin‐dependent genes. Additionally, we used DNA stable‐isotope probing (DNA‐SIP) to demonstrate its response to pH fluctuations to reflect how it responds to the decrease in pH. Results confirmed that comammox Nitrospira became dominant ammonia oxidizers in the soil after the decrease in pH. We suggested that comammox Nitrospira will become increasingly important in global soils, under the trend of soil acidification. Overall, our work provides insights that how comammox Nitrospira perform in weakly acidic soil and its response to pH changes.
Evaluation of hemoglobin A1c reduction in Hispanic patients versus non‐Hispanic patients with type 2 diabetes managed by a clinical pharmacist
Authors: Warner Mayela , Anachebe Ife , Newman Samuel , Blair Somer , Leverett Haley
Published: February 2025

Hispanic people are 1.6 times as likely to be diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) as non‐Hispanic White people. Clinical pharmacists can play a significant role in helping patients disproportionately affected by diabetes meet hemoglobin A1c (A1c) goals through medication management via collaborative practice agreements (CPAs). The objective of this study was to evaluate A1c reduction in Hispanic and non‐Hispanic patients with T2DM when managed by a clinical pharmacist utilizing a CPA. A single‐center, retrospective, observational cohort study was conducted from August 30, 2019 to August 30, 2022. Patients were included if they were at least 18 years of age, diagnosed with T2DM, and had at least one office visit with a clinical pharmacist for diabetes management at John Peter Smith (JPS) Health Network. The study population was subdivided into two groups: Hispanic and non‐Hispanic patients. The primary outcome was mean A1c reduction, defined as the difference in A1c at baseline and 12 months. Secondary outcomes included differences in variables for Hispanic patients who reached A1c goals versus those who did not. Data points were collected within 1 year from the first encounter with a clinical pharmacist. Three hundred patients were enrolled in the study, with 150 patients in each group. The mean A1c reduction in the Hispanic group was 1.6% (standard deviation [SD] = 2.654, 95% confidence interval [CI] [1.180–2.030]) and 2.0% (SD = 2.369, 95% CI [1.598–2.356]) in the non‐Hispanic group (p = 0.20). There were no significant differences in variables for Hispanic patients who met A1c goals compared to Hispanic patients who did not achieve A1c goals. There was no significant difference in A1c reduction between Hispanic and non‐Hispanic patients with T2DM who were managed by a clinical pharmacist utilizing a CPA. The findings from this study suggest that clinical pharmacist management of T2DM does not further contribute to the disparities experienced by Hispanic patients, but rather, it can serve as a valuable resource in their care.
Inhibitory Potential and Binding Thermodynamics of Scyllatoxin‐Based BH3 Domain Mimetics Targeting Repressor BCL2 Proteins
Authors: Amarasiri H. A. D. B. , Arachchige Danushka , Vince Matthew J. K. , Holub Justin M.
Published: February 2025

The B‐cell lymphoma 2 (BCL2) proteins are a class of apoptosis regulators that control the release of apoptogenic factors from mitochondria. Under normal physiological conditions, apoptosis is inhibited through the actions of anti‐apoptotic (repressor) BCL2 proteins that bind semi‐indiscriminately to the helical BH3 domains of pro‐apoptotic (effector) BCL2 proteins. In this work, we developed a series of BH3 domain mimetics by grafting residues from the effector BCL2 protein Bax onto the α‐helix of scyllatoxin (ScTx). These so‐called “ScTx‐Bax” constructs were then used to gain insight into the physicochemical nature of repressor/effector BCL2 interactions. Specifically, we utilized competitive binding and isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC) to investigate the inhibitory potential and binding thermodynamics of ScTx‐Bax structural variants that target the repressor protein Bcl‐2 (proper) in vitro. Our data show that ScTx‐Bax mimetics compete with isolated Bax BH3 domain peptides for Bcl‐2 with IC50 values in the mid‐nanomolar range and that greater flexibility within the ScTx‐Bax BH3 domain correlates with more effective inhibition. Furthermore, ITC experiments revealed that unstructured ScTx‐Bax variants target Bcl‐2 with greater entropic, but lower enthalpic, efficiencies than structured ScTx‐Bax peptides. These results suggest that entropic contributions to binding Bcl‐2 are more favorable for flexible BH3 domains; however, this enhancement is counterbalanced by a moderate enthalpic penalty. Overall, this study improves understanding of how structural properties of effector BH3 domains influence the promiscuous binding patterns of BCL2 proteins and expands the utility of ScTx‐based BH3 domain mimetics as molecular tools to study discrete recognition elements that facilitate repressor/effector BCL2 interactions.
Diagnosing coastal processes using machine learning and ocean buoyancy gliders
Authors: Iles Robert L. , DiMarco Steven F. , Gold‐Bouchot Gerardo , Knap Anthony H.
Published: February 2025

Ocean buoyancy gliders provide a comprehensive view of the water column, offering more than simply a snapshot of a single moment in time or space. In this study, we applied the established machine learning method, k‐means clustering, to a glider dataset collected in the summer of 2015 in the northern Gulf of Mexico. Clustering analysis of chromophoric dissolved organic matter and salinity revealed the physical structure of water masses, both vertically within the water column and horizontally along the shelf. Supplementary statistical analyses, including principal component analysis and ANOVA, of individual clusters confirmed the clusters were statistically distinct from one another and provided insights into the factors contributing to their differentiation. The clusters identified in the glider dataset represent water masses variously distinguished by river plumes, wind‐induced upwelling effects, shifts in currents, density‐induced stratification, and biological processes. This study demonstrates that applying machine learning clustering methods to subsurface glider data is a novel technique that enhances the analytical capabilities of both glider and other oceanographic datasets.
Molecular composition of dissolved organic matter from young organic‐rich hydrothermal deep‐sea sediments
Authors: Brünjes Jonas , Schubotz Florence , Teske Andreas , Seidel Michael
Published: February 2025

Hydrothermal transformations of dissolved organic matter (DOM) are governed by temperature and sedimentary organic carbon content, resulting in the release of hydrothermal DOM containing bioavailable compounds fueling benthic microbes. However, the temperature‐dependent molecular changes in porewater DOM from organic‐rich hydrothermal sediments, and the extent to which these changes contribute to the marine recalcitrant DOM, remain largely unexplored. Here we investigated the DOM composition of hydrothermal porewater and bottom water samples from the Guaymas Basin, Gulf of California, where basaltic sill intrusions generate hydrothermal petroleum in organic‐rich sediments. Samples containing hydrothermal petroleum with in situ temperatures from 4°C to > 106°C were analyzed using Fourier‐transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry and parallel factor analysis of excitation‐emission matrices from fluorescent DOM (FDOM). We found that the porewater DOM composition was strongly influenced by temperature and petroleum dissolution, evidenced by the enrichment of hydrothermal DOM with highly unsaturated, oxygen‐depleted aromatic, sulfur‐containing molecular formulae and petroleum‐associated FDOM compared to a cold reference site. In bottom waters, hydrothermal DOM accounted for ~ 26% of the DOM molecular formulae, with 82% exhibiting hydrogen‐to‐carbon ratios < 1.5, indicating their recalcitrance. The remaining ~ 18% of the hydrothermal molecular formulae were aliphatic and saturated, representing the release of bioavailable DOM to the ocean. Our results show that hydrothermal sediments are a source of both bioavailable and recalcitrant DOM, releasing water‐soluble petroleum‐derived compounds to the deep ocean. Our study highlights the need for more quantitative research on the contribution of hydrothermal sediments to deep‐sea DOM cycling.
Marine snow as vectors for microplastic transport: Multiple aggregation cycles account for the settling of buoyant microplastics to deep‐sea sediments
Authors: Wu Nan , Grieve Stuart W. D. , Manning Andrew J. , Spencer Kate L.
Published: February 2025

Many studies have reported the paradoxical observation of high concentrations of low‐density microplastics (plastic particles < 5 mm) in deep‐sea sediments despite their buoyancy. The incorporation of buoyant microplastics into marine snow has been observed to enhance microplastic settling. Previous studies on the vertical movement of buoyant microplastics have been unable to theoretically account for these ocean observations and no study has comprehensively elucidated microplastic transport pathways in the ocean from the surface to seafloor. Here, we establish a one‐dimensional theoretical model, that embraces key elements of the flocculation process, to explain how marine snow acts as a vector to transport buoyant microplastics to deep water and the ocean bottom. Microplastics reach the ocean floor through multiple cycles of aggregation, settling, and disaggregation between marine snow and microplastics. Each settling cycle results in a net settling of 200–400 m. We demonstrate that microplastics with different sizes show distinct vertical settling behaviors and only microplastics less than 100 μm in diameter can reach the ocean bottom. This theoretical model refines our ability to predict and understand the global and long‐term fate, transport, and inventory of microplastics in the ocean interior, the influence of microplastics on the biological carbon pump and the efficacy of plastic management policies.
How Do Climate‐Related Risks and Opportunities Affect Portfolio Allocation and Asset Pricing?
Authors: Asal Maher , Li Xiaoni , Shi Yin
Published: February 2025

This paper examines the performance of “clean,” “brown,” and “dirty” stocks in the S&P 500 from January 2010 to September 2022 using panel random effect estimation and factor models. It also uses cointegration analysis to assess the long‐term relationship between risk premiums and two carbon risk factors: “brown minus clean” and “dirty minus clean.” Finally, we use random walk tests to examine whether carbon risks are priced, and therefore, the S&P 500 market is weakly efficient. Findings indicate that the brown portfolio outperforms the clean portfolio in factor models, likely due to market trends where energy, driven by rising oil and gas prices, outperforms all other sectors. The results also show that the two carbon risks and the political risk have a negative and significant impact on the risk premium and that the excess return series do not follow random walks and are weak form inefficient.
Dual‐Band Shared Aperture Fabry–Perot Cavity Antenna With Beam Deflection
Authors: He Xin , Qin Wenhua , Xu Juan
Published: February 2025

In this paper, a novel partially reflective metasurface (PRS) unit is proposed for beam deflection in a dual‐band shared aperture Fabry–Perot cavity antenna (DB‐FPA). It operates in the C‐band and X‐band. Independent control of different frequency bands can be achieved by adjusting the different parameters of the PRS unit. A coaxially fed patch antenna is used as the feed source for the proposed antenna. This antenna exhibits high aperture efficiency and can operate in two bands with a ratio of 1:1.67. The measurements indicate the impedance bandwidth dB of the DB‐FPA is 5.54‐6.48 GHz (15.6%) and 9.62–10.52 GHz (9%). The gain is 7.15 dBi at 6 GHz with an aperture efficiency of 34.8%, and 8.3 dBi at 10 GHz with an aperture efficiency of 14.5%. The beam deflection of at 6 GHz and at 10 GHz.
Effectiveness of Attentional Bias Modification Combined With Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in Reducing Relapse Risk and Cravings in Male Patients With Alcohol Use Disorder: A Quasi‐Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Amano Yoshifumi , Koizumi Kohei , Takizawa Hirokazu , Tasaka Shota , Hamaguchi Toyohiro
Published: February 2025

Background

Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is characterized by severe dependence on alcohol, poor impulse control, and heightened attention to alcohol‐related cues. Attention bias modification (ABM) retrains individuals to distract attention from alcohol‐related cues. This study investigates the effect of combining ABM with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to reduce relapse risk and cravings in male patients with AUD.

Methods

A quasi‐randomized controlled trial was conducted among male inpatients diagnosed with AUD. Participants were divided into an intervention group receiving ABM in addition to CBT and a control group receiving CBT with a placebo intervention. The primary outcomes—risk of relapse and craving levels—were measured using the Alcohol Relapse Risk Scale (ARRS) and a visual analog scale (VAS), respectively. Participants underwent weekly sessions over 6 weeks, and outcomes were analyzed using generalized linear models (GLMs).

Results

The analysis did not reveal significant interactions between the intervention group and time for ARRS scores and craving levels. Both groups experienced a reduction in relapse risk and cravings. However, there was no significant difference between the ABM + CBT and CBT‐only groups.

Conclusions

Although the combined ABM and CBT intervention did not result in statistically significant reductions in relapse risk and cravings compared to CBT alone, the overall reduction in these outcomes in both groups highlights the effectiveness of CBT in treating AUD. Future studies should use naturalistic settings and tailor the intervention to individual cognitive profiles.
Alternate‐day fasting enhanced weight loss and metabolic benefits over pair‐fed calorie restriction in obese mice
Authors: Nawaz Hadia , Lee Haneul , Kang Sumin , Kim Hayoon , Kim Wooki , Go Gwang‐woong
Published: February 2025

Objective

Both alternate‐day fasting (ADF) and calorie restriction (CR) are effective weight loss strategies. However, most individuals find it difficult to adhere to CR. Furthermore, CR can induce an excessive loss of not only fat but also muscle mass. This study aimed to compare the effects of ADF and pair‐feeding (PF) CR on metabolic pathways underlying obesity in mice with high‐fat diet (HFD)‐induced obesity.

Methods

Male C57BL/6N Tac mice (n = 10 per group) were fed an HFD for 8 weeks to establish a diet‐induced obesity model. Mice were then continued on the HFD with either alternate‐day access to food or PF for the next 8 weeks. We measured body weight, adiposity, plasma biomarkers, and molecular mechanisms involving lipolysis and autophagy.

Results

Both ADF and PF resulted in comparable weight and fat loss. Compared with PF, ADF showed a significant reduction in liver weight and hepatic triglyceride levels. ADF significantly increased plasma ketone body levels and white adipose tissue lipolysis. Compared with PF, ADF tended to activate autophagy elongation and autophagosome formation, which were insignificant.

Conclusions

These findings indicated that ADF is a promising intervention for metabolic diseases, potentially due to its superior efficacy in promoting ketogenesis and lipolysis compared with PF.
A Comprehensive Review of Self‐Healing Polymers: Mechanisms, Types, and Industry Implications
Authors: Srivastav Ruchir Shanker. , More Aarti P.
Published: February 2025

This review explores the diverse landscape of self‐healing polymers, tracing their bioinspired roots and historical evolution. We delve into their classification, mechanisms, and industry impact, examining both extrinsic and intrinsic mechanisms, dynamic covalent bonding, and supramolecular chemistry. The paper dissects shape memory effects, nanocomposites, and the role of interfaces in self‐healing polymers, with a special focus on their applications in hydrogels. A pivotal shift towards sustainability is addressed, unveiling the ecological implications of self‐healing polymers and their potential to contribute to a greener future. The review includes a sectoral analysis, scrutinizing industries such as textiles, healthcare, electronics, construction, painting, and surface coatings to reveal the transformative influence of these polymers. Balancing academic rigor with accessible language, this comprehensive review aims to captivate readers, guiding them through the intricate world of self‐healing polymers and serving as a catalyst for further research and development.