bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Waste Management and Waste Disposal Detected by Combination of Analytical Methods: Late Bronze Age Březnice Settlement Site (South Bohemia)
Authors: Šálková Tereza , Budilová Kristýna , Kovárník Jaromír , Majer Antonín , Novák Jan , Pavelka Jaroslav , Strouhalová Barbora , Vobejda Libor , Šťastný Ondřej , Kuna Martin , Chvojka Ondřej
Published: February 2025

Waste disposal processes and landfill management are crucial subjects in the field of settlement archaeology. Our study is focused on understanding the processes that are connected to the formation of the infills of settlement features and the recycling of the building materials (daub and wood) and waste management. These research questions are addressed through the analysis of plant macroremains, charcoals, phytoliths, starch, micromorphology, phosphates and magnetic susceptibility. The results show the waste character of feature infills, which reflect the economy of the individual households. The composition of the archaeobotanical assemblages is not influenced by the type of feature, and similarities in the plant spectra often emerge in the features located close to each other. The charcoal and dendrochronological analyses suggest that part of the building's oak timber was recycled and later used as fuelwood. The presence of uncharred remains of vegetative and generative parts in wastes was detected by phytolith and starch analyses and the presence of meat and dung of livestock by animal protein analyses. Anomalies in soil phosphate indicate differing amounts of organic matter in individual features. Magnetic susceptibility measurements showed that each feature infill was formed in a one‐time event. The sedimentological analysis demonstrated that the infills of different types of features were similar, but only the infill of Late and Final Bronze Age cultures' specific trench‐like features was compacted. All proxies combined suggest that prior deposition of waste in sunken features first accumulated elsewhere and became mixed/homogenized.
Health information behavior during the life transition among people diagnosed with hypothyroidism
Authors: Pääaho Varpu , Huttunen Aira
Published: February 2025

Being diagnosed with a chronic illness can lead to a life transition that invokes new kinds of information behavior for an individual. This qualitative study focuses on information behavior—particularly information needs, use, and barriers—during the life transitions of people diagnosed with hypothyroidism. Ten interviews were conducted in 2022 with individuals who were diagnosed with hypothyroidism. The data were analyzed using qualitative content analysis. Based on the intermediate transitions theory by I. Ruthven, 2022 (An information behavior theory of transitions. Journal of the Association for Information Science & Technology, 73(4), 579–593), the process of transition includes phases of understanding, negotiating, and resolving, as well as processes of event, engaging, enacting, and establishing. Based on the findings, information needs, use, and barriers varied according to the stage of disease and in different stages of a life transition. Interviewees had a wide range of information needs related to disease and diagnosis, treatment balance, and disease monitoring. Information use included the promotion of personal well‐being through physical activity and improvement of information‐seeking skills. The most significant barriers to information acquisition included communication issues with health care providers and symptoms of hypothyroidism such as fatigue and brain fog. For information providers, the results provide important knowledge on information behavior during a life transition related to a chronic illness.
Sociodemographic landscape of suspected prostate cancer referrals and diagnoses across North East London
Authors: Haider Muhammad , Leow Jeffrey J. , Green James S. A. , Dhillon Chamkhor , Wong Angela S. , Zhou Yin , Paparini Sara , Lamb Benjamin W. , Rajan Prabhakar ,   for the North East London Cancer Alliance Urology Expert Reference Group
Published: February 2025

Objectives

The objective of this study is to identify healthcare inequities in referrals and diagnoses of suspected prostate cancer (PCa) in an ethnically diverse and socially deprived large urban region.

Methods

Retrospective cohort study of 2‐Week Wait (2WW) suspected PCa patients (n = 12 947) referred to two acute NHS Trusts in North East London (NEL) from February 2019 to August 2023. Sociodemographics, diagnosis and pretreatment staging data were collected from patient records. We examined referral and diagnosis statistics, age at referral, radiological T‐stage at diagnosis, levels of deprivation by ethnicity and the impact of COVID‐19 pandemic lockdowns on proportion of referrals and diagnoses by ethnicity and T‐stage at diagnosis. Uni‐ and multivariable logistic regression was performed to identify predictors of locally advanced (T‐stage ≥T3) disease.

Results

Of all referrals, 22% were diagnosed with PCa. There were no statistically significant differences in referrals, diagnoses or T‐stage of PCa by ethnicity during COVID lockdown versus non‐lockdown periods (p > 0.05). Compared to men from any other ethnicity, Black men (from Black British, Black African and Black Caribbean ethnic groups) were diagnosed at a younger age (mean = 65 years), had the highest age‐adjusted PCa incidence rate of 149 per 100 000 person‐years, were from the most deprived backgrounds, and were diagnosed with the highest proportion of localised PCa (74%). Multivariable analysis of a patient subgroup revealed age bands 71–80 years (OR 2.01, 95% CI 1.31–3.07) and >80 (OR 4.27, 95% CI 2.25–8.08) as independent positive predictors of locally advanced PCa, and Black ethnicity as an independent predictor of localised disease (OR 0.66, 95% CI 0.43–1.00). Limitations of this study include the exclusion of PCa cases diagnosed outside the 2WW pathway, as well as missing data on Prostate‐Specific Antigen (PSA) levels, distant radiological staging and histopathological findings.

Conclusion

We identify disparities in PCa incidence, stage and age at presentation, as well as socio‐economic deprivation among Black men in NEL. Targeted efforts are needed to mitigate these healthcare inequities.
Portable Helios Reader for an Unknown Dose Recovery Procedures From KCl Dietary Supplements Using the Luminescence Method
Authors: Szufa Katarzyna  Maria , Majgier Renata
Published: February 2025

During unexpected accidents involving ionizing radiation, quick assessments of doses to public exposed to hazard conditions are crucial. For this purpose, selected household materials can be used as radiation detectors by combining them with a portable reading device. Potassium dietary supplements based on potassium chloride in combination with a portable luminescence reader can be a promising dosimetry tool in such emergency situations. In the paper, results of unknown dose reconstruction based on tablets and pills with granules using optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) method are presented. Some OSL properties were examined: reproducibility of OSL as standard deviation of the OSL or sensitization of samples. Reconstructed doses were compared with dose delivered to BeO detectors. The results obtained for tablets were similar to BeO doses, while pill doses were differential, up to 37%. Overall reconstructed doses were on the same order of magnitude as BeO ones. The measurements were conducted using portable Helios reader due to its ability to measure samples of various shapes and sizes, which is not possible in other OSL reader. The development of mobile readers for emergency use is important because they enable rapid dose assessment on‐site without the need for lengthy and expensive laboratory procedures.
Radical‐Trapping and Hydroperoxide‐Decomposing Benzoselenazole Antioxidants with Potential Biological Applications against Oxidative Stress
Authors: Yadav Manisha , Sodhi Nikhil , Sethi Palak , Mundlia Poonam , Singh Suraj P. , Barnwal Ravi P. , Khajuria Akhil , Singh Gurpal , Baschieri Andrea , Amorati Riccardo , Sahakyan Adrine D. , Singh Vijay P.
Published: February 2025

The synthesis of phenolic benzoselenazoles has been described. These were synthesized from their corresponding diselenides and aldehydes using acetic acid as a catalyst. All compounds have been tested for glutathione peroxidase (GPx)‐like antioxidant activity in thiophenol assay. Radical‐trapping antioxidant (RTA) activity of benzoselenazoles towards ROO⋅ radicals has been studied for the inhibition of autoxidation of cumene in chlorobenzene from the O2‐consumption during the inhibited period. Compound 13 c was found to inhibit azo‐initiated oxidation of cumene with a stoichiometric factor (n) ≃2.2. This study also suggested some insights into the substitution‐dependent activity of anilides over phenols as effective radical‐trapping antioxidants. Moreover, the zone of inhibition study corroborated the antimicrobial potential of benzoselenazole antioxidants against Bacillus subtilis (B. subtilis) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa). Anti‐biofilm activities were portrayed against the production of biofilms by B. subtilis and P. aeruginosa. MDA‐MB‐231 cell line was selected for triple‐negative breast carcinoma for in vitro cytotoxicity of all antioxidants using the MTT assay. Additionally, the interaction patterns of antioxidants with target proteins of B. subtilis and P. aeruginosa were demonstrated using molecular docking study. Molecular dynamics simulations were deployed to investigate the structural dynamics and the stability of the complex.
Autoreifen aus Stroh?
Authors: Hicham Karim Ben , Sim Elvis Jonathan , Kuckelkorn Christian , Kypke Christopher , Nickel Niklas
Published: February 2025

Buta‐1,3‐dien (BD) ist eine zentrale Industriechemikalie, die hauptsächlich zur Herstellung von synthetischem Kautschuk und Polymeren verwendet wird. Der konventionelle Produktionsprozess durch Cracken von fossilem Naphtha ist äußerst energieintensiv und verursacht hohe CO₂‐Emissionen. Der innovative AixSTRAWdinary‐Prozess bietet eine nachhaltige Alternative, indem er Getreidestroh als Rohstoff nutzt und CO₂‐Emissionen erheblich reduziert. Der Prozess ist wirtschaftlich konkurrenzfähig und unterstützt lokale Landwirte durch die Verwertung von überschüssigem Stroh. Mit dieser Prozessentwicklung gewannen Studierende der RWTH Aachen den ChemPlant ‐Wettbewerb 2024 des VDI‐GVC.
Digital Data Chain: Effizienz und Sicherheit in der industriellen Instandhaltung
Authors: Gandert Etwina
Published: February 2025

Das Digital Data Chain Konsortium (DDCC) vereint Anlagenbetreiber, Technologielieferanten und Dienstleister der Prozessindustrie, um den Austausch technischer Informationen zu standardisieren und zu fördern. Dr. Christian Poppe, Vorsitzender des VDI‐Fachbeirats Betrieb verfahrenstechnischer Anlagen und Technical Asset Management Uerdingen von Covestro, erläutert im Interview die Bedeutung der drei zentralen Standards IEP, VDI 2770 und IEC 61406 für die industrielle Instandhaltung, wie diese in die Digital Data Chain einfließen und wie diese Technologie zur Effizienz und Sicherheit beiträgt.
Schwerindustrie im Wandel
Authors: Zapf Lukas
Published: February 2025

Das Verständnis und die Beherrschung von Produktionsprozessen sind unerlässlich, um Kosten zu senken und Emissionen zu reduzieren. Eine strukturierte Herangehensweise, bei der der Gesamtprozess in Unterprozesse untergliedert wird, ermöglicht eine effektive Prozessanalyse. Daten aus dem Prozessleitsystem werden gesammelt, aufbereitet und visualisiert, um sie gemeinsam mit dem Kunden zu bewerten. Moderne Simulationswerkzeuge helfen, das hydraulische Verhalten präzise zu bewerten und Optimierungspotentiale zu identifizieren. Ein Beispiel zeigt, wie Energieeinsparungen und Prozessoptimierungen in einem Stahlwerk erreicht wurden.
Hermetisch dichte Pumpen – effizient, wartungsarm und vielseitig
Authors: Bungartz Frank
Published: February 2025

Hermetisch dichte Rotationskolbenpumpen stellen einen großen Entwicklungssprung in der Pumpentechnologie dar. Sie kombinieren die Vorteile von Verdränger‐ und Kreiselpumpen und eliminieren viele ihrer Nachteile. Diese Pumpen sind hermetisch dicht, nahezu wartungsfrei und bieten eine pulsationsarme Förderung. Sie sind ideal für die Förderung von viskosen und kritischen Medien und eignen sich für zahlreiche industrielle Anwendungen.
Two Cases of Plasmablastic Myeloma Mimicking Plasmablastic Lymphoma With In‐Depth Review of Literature
Authors: Kitamura Sakiko , Morichika Kazuho , Nakachi Sawako , Hanashiro Taeko , Miyagi Riko , Nakajima Tomo , Nishi Yukiko , Tamaki Keita , Fukushima Takuya , Masuzaki Hiroaki
Published: February 2025

Background

Plasmablastic myeloma (PBM) is a rare, aggressive subtype of multiple myeloma (MM) with poor prognosis. On the other hand, plasmablastic lymphoma (PBL) is an aggressive B‐cell lymphoma with a plasmacytic phenotype. Importantly, PBM is difficult to distinguish from PBL, because clinical features of both diseases closely overlap. We report two cases of PBM accompanied by apparent extramedullary lesions.

Case

Case 1: A 38‐year‐old female complained of fatigue. She presented with pancytopenia, splenomegaly, a soft tissue lesion over the chest wall, and multiple osteolytic lesions. Initially, pathology of the soft tissue established a diagnosis of PBL. She received two cycles of EPOCH, leading to considerable improvement. She then received daratumumab (Dara) and lenalidomide, achieving remission for two years. Case 2: A 60‐year‐old male was evaluated for multiple tumors of the pancreas and retroperitoneum. A biopsy of the pancreatic tumor identified plasmacytoid cells, whereas a biopsy of the bone marrow showed no evidence of plasma cells. Therefore, he was initially diagnosed as having multiple plasmacytomas and received 3 cycles of chemotherapy with bortezomib (Bor), lenalidomide, and dexamethasone, but in vain. Once Bor was replaced to Dara, he rapidly developed panperitonitis and ascites filled with plasmablasts and eventually died of multiple organ failure.

Conclusion

As there is no standard treatment for PBM, our cases raise a possibility that combination therapy with anti‐myeloma and anti‐lymphoma regimens may provide better outcomes. In addition, the Ki‐67 proliferation index would be a useful tool to diagnose PBM.
Walk‐and‐Talk Therapy Versus Conventional Indoor Therapy for Men With Low Mood: A Randomised Pilot Study
Authors: Dickmeyer Andrea , Smith Jordan J. , Halpin Sean , McMullen Stacey , Drew Ryan , Morgan Philip , Valkenborghs Sarah , Kay‐Lambkin Frances , Young Myles D.
Published: February 2025

While psychotherapy is effective for treating depression, men are less likely than women to attend and more likely to drop out. The value of alternative therapeutic approaches for men needs to be investigated. In this randomised pilot trial, we investigated the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of outdoor ‘walk‐and‐talk’ therapy compared to conventional indoor therapy for 37 men with low mood (mean [SD] PHQ‐9 score = 11.4 [5.0]; mean [SD] age = 44.1 [15.8] years). Over 6 weeks at the University of Newcastle participants received weekly 60‐min sessions delivered (i) while walking along a 4‐km route on campus or (ii) indoors in a psychology clinic, delivered by provisional psychologists using non‐directive supportive counselling. Outcomes included validated measures of depression, anxiety, stress and overall psychological distress, male‐type depression, mental well‐being, behavioural activation and therapeutic alliance. At post‐intervention, all pre‐registered feasibility benchmarks were exceeded including recruitment capability, retention (89%), average attendance (walk‐and‐talk: 91%, indoor: 89%), proportion of sessions delivered in intended setting (walk‐and‐talk: 100%, indoor: 98%) and overall perceived acceptability of the therapy (walk‐and‐talk: 4.4/5, indoor: 4.2/5, where 1 = poor and 5 = excellent). Linear mixed model analysis demonstrated both groups achieved similar improvements in depressive symptoms (d = −0.02), but the walk‐and‐talk group reported greater improvements in overall psychological distress (d = −0.5), anxiety (d = −0.4) and stress (d = −0.7). In contrast, male‐type depression improved more in the conventional indoor group (d = 0.6). Other outcomes were comparable between groups. Results indicate that walk‐and‐talk therapy may be acceptable and effective for men with depression. A powered trial to interrogate these effects and identify moderators of effectiveness is warranted.

Trial Registration: Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry number: ACTRN12622001318774.
Stable Na+ Ion Storage via Dual Active Sites Utilization in Covalent Organic Framework‐Carbon Nanotube Composite
Authors: Dey Anupam , Pramanik Atin , Purohit Sougat , Biswas Sandip , Chattopadhyay Shreyasi , Pieshkov Tymofii S. , Sai Gautam Gopalakrishnan , Ajayan Pulickel M. , Maji Tapas Kumar
Published: February 2025

Redox‐active covalent organic frameworks (COFs) with metal binding sites are increasingly recognized for developing cost‐effective, eco‐friendly organic electrodes in rechargeable energy storage devices. Here, we report a microwave‐assisted synthesis and characterization of a triazine‐based polyimide COF that features dual redox‐active sites (−C=O from pyromellitic and −C=N− from triazine) and COF@CNT nanocomposites (COF@CNT‐X, where X=10, 30, and 50 wt % of NH2‐MWCNT) formed through covalent linking with amino‐functionalized multiwalled carbon nanotubes. These composites are evaluated as cathode materials for the sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs). The amine functionalization renders the covalent bond between COF and CNT, improving electronic conductivity, structural rigidity, and long‐term stability. The interfacial growth of COF layers on CNTs increases accessible redox‐active sites, enhancing sodium diffusion kinetics during sodiation/desodiation. The COF@CNT‐50 composite exhibits outstanding Na+ ion storage performance (reversible capacity of 164.3 mAh g−1 at 25 mA g−1) and excellent stability over 1000 cycles at ambient temperature. At elevated temperature (65 °C), it also maintains good capacity and cycle stability. Ex situ XPS analysis confirms the importance of dual active sites in the Na+ diffusion mechanism. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations reveal insights into Na+ binding sites and corresponding binding energies into COF structure, elucidating the experimental storage capacity and voltage profile.
Improving population analysis using indirect count data: A case study of chimpanzees and elephants
Authors: Ayebare Samuel , Gilbert Neil A. , Plumptre Andrew J. , Nampindo Simon , Zipkin Elise F.
Published: February 2025

Estimating spatiotemporal patterns of population density is a primary objective of wildlife monitoring programs. However, estimating density is challenging for species that are elusive and/or occur in habitats with limited visibility. In such situations, indirect measures (e.g., nests, dung) can serve as proxies for counts of individuals. Scientists have developed approaches to estimate population density using these “indirect count” data, although current methods do not adequately account for variation in sign production and spatial patterns of animal density. In this study, we describe a modified hierarchical distance sampling model that maximizes the information content of indirect count data using Bayesian inference. We apply our model to assess the status of chimpanzee and elephant populations using counts of nests and dung, respectively, which were collected along transects in 2007 and 2021 in western Uganda. Compared with conventional methods, our modeling framework produced more precise estimates of covariate effects on expected animal density by accounting for both long‐term and recent variations in animal abundance and enabled the estimation of the number of days that animal signs remained visible. We estimated a 0.98 probability that chimpanzee density in the region had declined by at least 10% and a 0.99 probability that elephant density had increased by 50% from 2007 to 2021. We recommend applying our modified hierarchical distance sampling model in the analysis of indirect count data to account for spatial variation in animal density, assess population change between survey periods, estimate the decay rate of animal signs, and obtain more precise density estimates than achievable with traditional methods.
Evolution of the vaquita/totoaba socio‐ecological system in the Upper Gulf of California, Mexico
Authors: Rodríguez‐Valencia J. Alejandro , Fueyo‐Mac Donald Luis , Cisneros‐Mata Miguel Á.
Published: February 2025

The Upper Gulf of California (UGC) hosts a rich marine biodiversity. Complex climatic processes generate high biological productivity enabling the use of resources in a complex socio‐ecological processes (SEPs). Through a literature review, evolution and aggravation of the SEP over 50 years are analyzed. The crisis peaked in the last decade related to vaquita, an endangered marine porpoise at the blink of extinction, and the illegal catch of totoaba, an endangered fish species, both endemic. Over the first three decades, stakeholders defined positions, while disorder in fisheries and reduction of vaquita population occurred. Corrective actions were implemented during the last two decades including diversification of markets for local fisheries, development of fishing technologies, and environmental regulations. Most actions failed, consolidating an ill governance aggravated by poaching of totoaba and drug trafficking. The evolution of the conflict includes (1) transition from community passivity to conservation efforts, to resistance and collective violence against them; (2) transition in the design and implementation of conservation actions from civil organizations to the government, facilitated by the disengagement of philanthropic donors for conservation, and reduction of support for civil organizations; (3) interventions by the Mexican Navy coordinated with the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society; and (4) weakening of the International Committee for the Recovery of Vaquita an international scientific moral authority to propose vaquita conservation. The federal government and the local fishing sector currently discuss scenarios that aim to authorize use of driftnets and gillnets, contrasting with the predominant conservation logic.
Misreading or living in denial? Reindeer overstocking and long‐term effects on vegetation: An experimental approach
Authors: Bårdsen Bård‐Jørgen , Tømmervik Hans , Næss Marius Warg , Bjerke Jarle Werner
Published: February 2025

In an era marked by accelerating climate change, habitat loss, and shifting land use patterns, it is crucial to understand the intricate effects of multiple stressors on ecosystems. This long‐term study sheds light on the complex interplay between grazing and habitat characteristics on pasture dynamics and offers insights into how various stressors affect ecosystems facing environmental challenges. Our experimental study documents that manipulation in restricting reindeer grazing and trampling through fencing led to higher ground‐lichen biomass, volume, height (particularly in one habitat), and cover compared with open‐control plots. The effect of fencing varied depending on habitat, and for lichen biomass, volume, and height, the lowest values were observed in windswept exposed ridges and mountain heaths (exposed/mountain), and the highest values were observed in forested and leeward‐heath (forest/leeward) habitat. The average (past five years) number of reindeer per square kilometer had indirect effects that varied across habitats. We observed negative density dependence in the open plots for height in the exposed/mountain habitats. Fencing reduced this effect, which was also valid for biomass except that habitat did not affect the effect of density. Surprisingly, in the forest/leeward areas, the estimated effects of reindeer density on biomass, volume, and height were positive for the fenced plots. Negative density dependence was evident for lichen cover irrespective of habitats and manipulation, even though this effect had little biological significance, whereas cover at the initiation of the experiment positively affected later recordings (particularly for the controls). Our models showed high explanatory power, highlighting the significance of reindeer density and habitat as predictors of ground‐lichen dynamics. Overall, negative density‐dependent effects were observed in the open plots in the most exposed areas, and fencing mitigated the negative impact of reindeer on lichens, particularly in less exposed areas. We challenge the “equilibrium” and “nonequilibrium” frameworks for explaining livestock‐pasture dynamics. We propose future studies to estimate the relative importance of density‐dependent and density‐independent factors, such as climate, using models considering both mechanisms simultaneously.
Prognostic impact of gait speed, muscle strength and muscle mass in chronic heart failure—A prospective cohort study
Authors: Cejka Vladimir , Riepl Hermann , Schwegel Nora , Kolesnik Ewald , Zach David , Santner Viktoria , Höller Viktoria , Schweighofer Natascha , Obermayer‐Pietsch Barbara , Pieber Thomas , Morbach Caroline , Frantz Stefan , Zirlik Andreas , von Lewinski Dirk , Störk Stefan , Posch Florian , Ablasser Klemens , Verheyen Nicolas
Published: February 2025

Aims

Heart failure (HF) impairs skeletal muscle mass and function, which contributes to reduced physical performance. We investigated the prognostic impact of gait speed (GS), handgrip strength (HG) and appendicular skeletal muscle index (ASMI) on cardiovascular outcomes in a prospective HF cohort.

Methods

This single‐centre prospective cohort study included adults with stable chronic HF with a previous diagnosis of overtly reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) <40% and LVEF < 50% at enrolment. GS was measured by the 4 m GS test, maximal HG was measured with a hydraulic dynamometer, and ASMI was measured by dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry. The primary combined outcome was cardiovascular death or worsening HF. Fine and Gray regression models were calculated, treating non‐cardiovascular death as the competing event.

Results

Two hundred five patients (78% male) were analysed. The median age was 66 (quartiles: 58–74) years, 31% had diabetes mellitus, and the median LVEF was 37 (30–43) %. Median GS was 1.0 (0.8–1.0) m/s, median HG was 32 (24–40) kg, and median ASMI was 8.0 (7.2–8.9) kg/m2. During a median follow‐up of 4.7 (4.0–5.3) years, the primary outcome was observed in 52 patients. In models adjusted for key clinical covariates, lower GS predicted a higher risk of cardiovascular death or worsening HF [subdistribution hazard ratio (SHR) per 0.1 m/s increase = 0.81, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.68–0.95], whereas HG (SHR per 5 kg increase = 0.97, 95% CI 0.84–1.10) and ASMI (SHR per 1 kg/m2 increase = 1.17, 95% CI 0.94–1.44) did not. In the analysis of effect modification, these associations were consistent across key clinical subgroups.

Conclusions

Higher GS was independently associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular death or worsening HF, whereas HG and ASMI were not. We prospectively confirm GS as a physical performance measure with clear prognostic significance for patients with HF.
Smartwatches in the assessment of heart failure patients in epidemiology and pathophysiology studies: A scoping review
Authors: Fabien Solenn , Waechter Sandra , Kayode Gbenga A. , Müller Berno , Roth Marietta , Koehler Friedrich
Published: February 2025

A limited number of studies with smartwatches (SWs) investigated their potential in the field of heart failure (HF). The aim of this scoping review is to understand the extent of current literature on SWs in the HF population and the device's potential to improve disease management. The literature search was performed on PubMed and Embase in March 2024. Inclusion criteria included the use of commercialized SWs, HF diagnosis and peer‐reviewed publications. Articles were excluded if the SW was not the study intervention or was part of a broader intervention programme. Reviews, case reports and study protocols were excluded. Of 1200 identified articles, 13 were included in the scoping review, encompassing 1171 patients with HF, and findings were presented in a descriptive summary table. Validity of several SW‐collected physiological metrics was assessed against established technologies. Heart rate and step count measures were deemed moderately accurate in the HF population with Fitbit trackers (n = 5 patients, r = 0.54) and Garmin watches [n = 15 patients (mean age: 65.5 ± 12.6 years), concordance correlation coefficient (CCC) = 0.89 for Vivofit 1 and CCC = 0.92 for Vivofit 3], respectively, while calorimetry was the least reliable measurement [n = 19 patients (mean age: 65.1 ± 6.6 years), mean difference to indirect calorimeter: P = 0.01 for Fitbit Charge 2, P = 0.02 for Mio Slice]. Wrist‐worn activity trackers were positively received by patients with HF [91.3% of adherence in research setting (n = 70 patients, median age (IQR): 79 years (76–82)), and 64% in real‐world environment (n = 14 patients)] and their health‐care providers (six cardiologists out of six acknowledged the data's usefulness), although device ownership ranged from 10 to 50% among the HF population. Physical activity information collected from SWs was found to be valuable in assisting cardiologists with their New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional class assessment, which is known for its limited objectivity and reproducibility. Multiple studies found that SWs, especially Fitbit devices, successfully identified a pattern where the degree of exercise intolerance increased with higher NYHA classes. These findings suggested that activity trackers can objectively evaluate the severity of physical activity limitations. As the functional classification of patients influences treatment strategies, SWs could serve as a valuable tool to facilitate and optimize outpatient disease management. SWs could be used as a complement to standard monitoring in HF. With continuous technological advances, it will be valuable to follow the deployment of SWs and to investigate their contribution to increased patient safety and consequently to health care cost reductions.
Right ventricular dysfunction for prediction of long‐term recovery in de novo HFrEF : a PROLONG‐II substudy
Authors: Jakstaite Aiste Monika , Mueller‐Leisse Johanna , Hillmann Henrike A.K. , Hohmann Stephan , Eiringhaus Jörg , Bavendiek Udo , Kempf Tibor , Veltmann Christian , Bauersachs Johann , Duncker David , Berliner D.
Published: February 2025

Aims

To analyse the predictive value of advanced markers of right ventricular (RV) function and RV‐pulmonary arterial (PA) coupling in forecasting long‐term left ventricular (LV) improvement in de novo heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF).

Methods and results

260 patients (mean age 57 years, 68% men) from the PROLONG‐II study were included. PROLONG‐II analysed patients with new‐onset HFrEF receiving a wearable cardioverter‐defibrillator. For this substudy, RV free wall longitudinal strain (RVFWS), tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE), fractional area change (FAC), and right ventricular‐pulmonary artery (RV‐PA) coupling ratios [RVFWS/systolic pulmonary artery pressure (PASP), TAPSE/PASP and FAC/PASP] at baseline and 3‐month follow‐up (early follow‐up) were examined. LV improvement and non‐improvement were defined as an LV ejection fraction (LVEF) of >35% or ≤35% at last available (long‐term) follow‐up. The median follow‐up was 31.5 months (IQR: 18.2–45.4), and 151 (58%) patients experienced LV improvement in the long term. No significant differences of RV function and markers of RV‐PA coupling were observed at baseline; however, the subgroup of patients with long‐term LVEF improvement showed better RV function at early follow‐up (RVFWS −20.9 ± 4.3 vs. −18.5 ± 5.1%, TAPSE 19.7 ± 5.1 vs. 17.4 ± 4.9 mm, FAC 39.7 ± 8.5 vs. 35.2 ± 9.4%, all P < 0.01). In multivariable analysis, RVFWS at early follow‐up was shown to be an independent predictor of later LV recovery [odds ratio 1.078 (95% confidence interval 1.010–1.150), P < 0.05]. The non‐improvers exhibited worse RV‐PA coupling at early follow‐up [RVFWS/PASP 0.82 ± 0.35 vs. 0.65 ± 0.35%/mmHg, TAPSE/PASP 0.71 (0.55–1.00) vs. 0.54 (0.35–0.75) mm/mmHg, FAC/PASP 1.54 ± 0.61 vs. 1.24 ± 0.75%/mmHg, all P < 0.01]. RVFWS/PASP identified RV‐PA uncoupling was associated with a higher risk of all‐cause mortality (hazard ratio 4.64, 95% confidence interval 1.34–16.09, P = 0.033).

Conclusions

Persistent RV dysfunction, as indicated by both standard and advanced echocardiographic markers during the early follow‐up period, implies a reduced potential for long‐term LV recovery in patients with newly diagnosed HFrEF.
Immune cell dynamics in heart failure: implicated mechanisms and therapeutic targets
Authors: Li Gen , He Wu , Wang Dao Wen
Published: February 2025

The relationship between heart failure (HF) and immune activation has garnered significant interest. Studies highlight the critical role of inflammation in HF, affecting cardiac structure and function. Despite promising anti‐inflammatory therapies, clinical trials have faced challenges, indicating an incomplete understanding of immune mechanisms in HF. Immune cells, which are key cytokine sources, are pivotal in HF progression. In this review, the authors provide a comprehensive overview of the complex role of different types of immune cells and their cell subtypes in HF. In addition, the authors summarize the available targets and animal experimental evidence for targeting immune cells for the treatment of HF. Future research directions will focus on the roles of immune cells and their interrelationships at different stages of HF, aiming to develop more targeted therapeutic strategies that can achieve more precise interventions in the pathological process of HF.
A 3D Layered ASPC‐CoS@Cos2 Composite Electrode Film via Simple Hydrothermal Method for High‐Performance Supercapacitors
Authors: Cai Weihong , Liu Zhentao , Mo Weijing , Liang Yao , Cheng Qixin , Jin Huixin , Wang Meilong
Published: February 2025

Constructing suitable nanostructures can provide a large specific surface area for storing charge. A 3D layered CoS@CoS2 composite electrode film grown on activated shaddock peel‐derived carbon (ASPC‐CoS@CoS2) was prepared by a simple hydrothermal method in this work. The specific capacitance of the ASPC‐CoS@CoS2 is 1160 F g−1 at 1.0 A g−1. When assembled into a supercapacitor (ASC: ASPC‐CoS@CoS2//ASPC), the ASC device achieved an energy density of 40.4 Wh kg−1 at 364.5 W kg−1. This enhancement in performance can be ascribed to the unique layered porous structure.
Studying a Method for Applying Phase Shift Using a Three‐Channel Phase Shifter at a Central Frequency of 10 GHz: Design, Simulation and Construction
Authors: Zarezadeh Esmail , shirpay Ali , mohammadi Ghader
Published: February 2025

Feeding phased array antennas are crucial components of this type of antenna system. To change the angle of the beam in phased array antennas, the antenna arrays need to have a phase difference. A method for applying phase shifts in the power divider is presented, which can be integrated into a single antenna feed system structure. Using Substrate Integrated Waveguide (SIW) technology, which has been widely used in the manufacturing of microwave devices recently, makes it possible to design and manufacture all elements such as antennas, power dividers, filters, and phase shifters on a single substrate. This approach reduces manufacturing costs, size, and weight of microwave circuits; more importantly, it eliminates the losses associated with non‐coplanar connections and circuits. A three‐port phase shifter is proposed, illustrating how to control the phase difference between output ports. After designing, simulating, and optimizing the relevant parameters at a frequency of 10 GHz, the phase shifter was manufactured and measured on the Rogers RO4003 substrate. The measurement results matched well with the simulation results, and all findings are presented.
Achieving sustainable carbon neutrality of food processing: Toward a net‐zero margarine production facility
Authors: Aleksic Aleksandar D. , Gordic Dusan , Vukasinovic Vladimir , Josijevic Mladen , Nikolic Jelena
Published: February 2025

Decarbonization and ultimately net‐zero production are rapidly becoming top priorities in today's corporate environment. The food processing industry is recognized as one of the key industries in the process of decarbonizing the entire industrial sector. Therefore, this article presents a methodology for achieving sustainable net‐zero production within the food industry. The approach involves a series of strategically planned steps that enable decision‐makers to accomplish the desired outcome effectively. These steps include determining the baseline carbon footprint, identifying, prioritizing, and implementing carbon footprint reduction opportunities, and implementing carbon offsetting. Additionally, the methodology incorporates an assessment of greenhouse gas emissions in relation to predicted production volumes, as production levels directly influence the emissions from a production facility. The proposed methodology was applied to a margarine production plant case study. The results indicate that implementing the suggested carbon footprint reduction opportunities reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 22%, assuming constant production volume. Achieving carbon neutrality, however, would require the purchase of carbon offsets. The most cost‐effective carbon offsetting scenarios result in an additional cost of 3.33%–6.52% on purchased energy, which presents a manageable financial impact for the company.
Affinities and Complementarities of Methods and Information Sets in the Estimation of Prices in Real Estate Markets
Authors: Bozanic‐Leal Mirko S. , Goic Marcel , Thraves Charles
Published: February 2025

In this article, we evaluate the predictive power of multiple machine learning methods using different sets of information, such as location, amenities, socioeconomic characteristics, and available infrastructure nearby, in both residential and commercial real estate markets. This analysis allows us to understand what type of information is the most relevant for each market, which methods are best suited for certain explanatory variables, and the degree of complementarity among different covariates. Our results indicate that the combination of multiple data sources consistently leads to better forecasting and that flexible machine learning models outperform linear regression or spatial methods by taking advantage of the complex interactions between explanatory variables of different sources. From a substantive point of view, we found that residential sale markets have a higher prediction error compared with their rent counterparts, with house sales being the market with the largest estimation error. In terms of the explanatory power of different information sets in different markets, we observe that socioeconomic and location variables have the highest impact on the prediction for sale markets and that, in relative terms, amenities and proximity to places of interest are more important for rental than sale residential markets.
The Resistance Abilities of Some Bacillus Species to Gastrointestinal Tract Conditions: Whole Genome Sequencing of the Novel Candidate Probiotic Strains Bacillus clausiiBA8 and Bacillus subtilisBA11
Authors: Söylemez‐Milli Nursel , Ertürkmen Pelin , Alp Baltakesmez Duygu
Published: February 2025

This study aims to investigate the resistance of potential probiotic Bacillus species to various conditions in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and their safety characteristics. MALDI‐TOF MS identified all tested strains with a good safety score of ≥ 2.0; the strains demonstrated the capacity to pass through the Gl tract, exhibiting a reduction of > 6 log/CFU live cells. Furthermore, they exhibited varying survival rates in an acidic environment (pH 2.0–3.0) and the presence of Ox‐Bile (1% w/v) (p < 0.05). Following exposure to pH 3.0 and Ox‐Bile, the survival rate of Bacillus spp. ranged between 85.94% and 91.24% and 87.30% and 91.54%, respectively. The results of the in vitro experiments showed that the six Bacillus strains had comparable characteristics (e.g., tolerance to GI track enzyme, auto‐aggregation ability) to the reference probiotic strain Lactiplantibacillus plantarum LA15. The auto‐aggregation results of the B. clausii BA8 strain, which has demonstrated resistance to GI tract conditions, were also noteworthy. This strain showed 72.32% after 2 h and 74.55% at the end of 5 h. Most suitable for use as probiotic strains B. clausii BA8 and B. subtilis BA11, sequenced via Illumina NovaSeq, showed average nucleotide identity (ANI) values of 98.1% and 97.8%, respectively. The genome annotation of B. clausii and B. subtilis with Prokka revealed 4,498,248‐4,215,606 bp genome length, 44%–43% GC content, and 110–26 contigs, respectively. B. clausii BA8 has been comprehensively characterized, is of low risk for human consumption, and has been recommended as a potential probiotic strain. However, further in vivo experimentation is required to confirm these findings.
Driving Mechanism of Synergistic Efficiency in Reducing Pollution and Carbon: Evidence From 249 Green Parks
Authors: Li Chuang , Li Keke , Wang Liping
Published: February 2025

The green park serves as a significant spatial carrier for China's strategy to become a manufacturing powerhouse and promote industrial transformation and upgrading. It is a crucial platform for implementing and driving the transformation and development of green manufacturing, promoting green development and harmonious coexistence between man and nature in the current era. The main focus of this study is a total of 249 green parks announced by the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, and it employs the multi‐time point PSM‐DID method to investigate 280 prefecture‐level cities. The results show that: (1) The coefficient of the green park certification policy is estimated to have a significantly negative impact at the 1% significance level. (2) The green park certification facilitates the integration of pollution reduction and carbon reduction efforts by leveraging green technology innovation and government support. (3) The promoting effect of green industrial park certification has regional consistency and resource heterogeneity. Therefore, it is of great significance to study the effects and pathways of green park certification on the synergies of carbon and pollution reduction.
Grey‐Matter Structure Markers of Alzheimer's Disease, Alzheimer's Conversion, Functioning and Cognition: A Meta‐Analysis Across 11 Cohorts
Authors: Couvy‐Duchesne Baptiste , Frouin Vincent , Bouteloup Vincent , Koussis Nikitas , Sidorenko Julia , Jiang Jiyang , Wink Alle Meije , Lorenzini Luigi , Barkhof Frederik , Trollor Julian N. , Mangin Jean‐François , Sachdev Perminder S. , Brodaty Henry , Lupton Michelle K. , Breakspear Michael , Colliot Olivier , Visscher Peter M. , Wray Naomi R. ,   for the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative,   the Australian Imaging Biomarkers and Lifestyle flagship study of ageing,   the Alzheimer's Disease Repository Without Borders Investigators,   the MEMENTO cohort Study Group
Published: February 2025

Alzheimer's disease (AD) brain markers are needed to select people with early‐stage AD for clinical trials and as quantitative endpoint measures in trials. Using 10 clinical cohorts (N = 9140) and the community volunteer UK Biobank (N = 37,664) we performed region of interest (ROI) and vertex‐wise analyses of grey‐matter structure (thickness, surface area and volume). We identified 94 trait‐ROI significant associations, and 307 distinct cluster of vertex‐associations, which partly overlap the ROI associations. For AD versus controls, smaller hippocampus, amygdala and of the medial temporal lobe (fusiform and parahippocampal gyri) was confirmed and the vertex‐wise results provided unprecedented localisation of some of the associated region. We replicated AD associated differences in several subcortical (putamen, accumbens) and cortical regions (inferior parietal, postcentral, middle temporal, transverse temporal, inferior temporal, paracentral, superior frontal). These grey‐matter regions and their relative effect sizes can help refine our understanding of the brain regions that may drive or precede the widespread brain atrophy observed in AD. An AD grey‐matter score evaluated in independent cohorts was significantly associated with cognition, MCI status, AD conversion (progression from cognitively normal or MCI to AD), genetic risk, and tau concentration in individuals with none or mild cognitive impairments (AUC in 0.54–0.70, p‐value < 5e‐4). In addition, some of the grey‐matter regions associated with cognitive impairment, progression to AD (‘conversion’), and cognition/functional scores were also associated with AD, which sheds light on the grey‐matter markers of disease stages, and their relationship with cognitive or functional impairment. Our multi‐cohort approach provides robust and fine‐grained maps the grey‐matter structures associated with AD, symptoms, and progression, and calls for even larger initiatives to unveil the full complexity of grey‐matter structure in AD.
Successful Implementation and Sustainability of a Physical Activity Health Promotion Approach Utilising Community Peer‐Led Training: Case Studies of Two Local Governments in Victoria
Authors: Levinger Pazit , Dreher Bronwyn , Fearn Marcia , Hill Keith D.
Published: February 2025

Issue Addressed

The built environment, such as recreational parks, can impact older people's ability to be physically active. Targeted promotion and park‐based activities with the utilisation of peer‐led programs, run by volunteers, can provide a sustainable health promotion approach for engagement in physical activity. This article is a reflective narrative that describes case studies of two local governments that have maintained active age‐friendly outdoor recreational spaces with volunteer peer‐led community sessions 1 year following the completion of participation in a research trial. The case studies demonstrate factors important for the successful implementation of such health promotion approaches.

Method

The article overviews the community volunteer training module and the Councils' processes and strategies for volunteer engagement, retention and support. Data and information were collected through field notes, site visits, audit files of Council staff and research meeting notes.

Results

Both local governments applied a rigorous recruitment process and had a dedicated officer to oversee and support the volunteers. A joint decision‐making process was practiced whereby the volunteers equally contributed to the planning around the activation of the parks, community events and any relevant sessions offered at the park.

Conclusion

The structured process for recruiting, onboarding and managing volunteers, along with shared decision‐making and accountability, is likely to enhance the successful implementation of such initiatives.

So What

The collaborative approach with local governments—featuring the training and upskilling of community members, coupled with ongoing Council support—has significant potential as a sustainable health promotion strategy to promote physical activity among older people in local parks.