bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Industrial Policy for Hairdressing?
Authors: Tomlinson Jim
Published: January 2025

Industrial policy is undergoing a notable revival in Britain, as well as elsewhere. But what are the aims of such a policy? The current government's core statement wholly subordinates its industrial strategy to the pursuit of economic growth. Even leaving aside the questions about the wisdom of making this the overarching goal of economic policy, there are issues about how far industrial policy should be focussed on other objectives. If one sees ‘good jobs’ as such an objective, how far can industrial policy be used in its pursuit? This article takes hairdressing as a perhaps counter‐intuitive example of where industrial policy might usefully be applied.
Effects of sugars on the gustatory response, longevity and realized fecundity of the egg parasitoid Trissolcus basalis
Authors: Geerinck Margot W. J. , Stockmans Isabelle , Wäckers Felix , Cusumano Antonino , Jacquemyn Hans , Lievens Bart
Published: January 2025

Parasitoids are widely used as biological control agents to manage insect pest populations in greenhouses. To meet their energetic and nutritional requirements, adult parasitoids consume carbohydrate‐rich sources such as (extra‐)floral nectar and honeydew. However, these sugar sources are often scarce or even absent in greenhouses, compromising the effectiveness of parasitoids as biological control agents. To remedy this, artificial sugar solutions can be provided to sustain parasitoid populations. To develop an artificial sugar solution that supports parasitoids, proper selection of sugars is critical. In this study, we investigated the innate gustatory response and survival of the egg parasitoid Trissolcus basalis (Wollaston) on eight plant‐ and/or insect‐derived sugars (fructose, glucose, maltose, mannose, melezitose, rhamnose, sucrose and trehalose). Our results show that T. basalis can consume a wide range of sugars and survive on them. Five sugars (sucrose, fructose, maltose, melezitose and trehalose) increased its longevity more than seven‐fold compared to the water control. For two sugars, sucrose and trehalose, the parasitoid's realized fecundity was monitored after various time periods during which the parasitoids were fed with the sugars (1 day, 1 week, 2 weeks, and 3 weeks). The results indicate a prolonged period of parasitism compared to the water control because of a longer lifespan when fed on the sugars. Altogether, our findings provide valuable insights for the development of an artificial sugar solution that supports the performance of T. basalis, potentially enhancing the biological control of important pest species such as Nezara viridula (Linnaeus).
Short (2‐Hour) Non‐Oxygenated End‐Ischemic Hypothermic Perfusion Versus Cold Storage in the Setting of Renal Transplantation
Authors: Ruberto Franco , Lai Quirino , Piazzolla Mario , Poli Luca , Zullino Veronica , Diamantini Giulia , Brisciani Matteo , Giovanardi Francesco , Melandro Fabio , Quaresima Silvia , Rossi Massimo , Garofalo Manuela , Pugliese Francesco
Published: January 2025

Background

Kidney transplantation (KT) is the most effective treatment for end‐stage renal disease. End‐ischemic hypothermic machine perfusion (EI‐HMP) has emerged as a promising method for preserving grafts before transplantation. This study aimed to compare graft function recovery in KT recipients of deceased brain‐death (DBD) grafts preserved with EI‐HMP versus static cold storage (SCS). The primary outcome was the rate of delayed graft function (DGF). Secondary outcomes included urine output, intensive care unit (ICU) stay, hospital stay duration, and survival rates.

Methods

A retrospective, single‐center observational study was conducted at Sapienza University of Rome, analyzing 313 KT patients between January 2014 and September 2021. Patients were stratified into two groups based on graft preservation methods (EI‐HMP, n = 95; SCS, n = 218). A stabilized inverse probability treatment weighting (IPTW) method was employed to adjust for potential confounders.

Results

There were no significant differences in DGF rates between the two groups (17.9% vs. 15.6% in SCS and EI‐HMP cases, respectively; p = 0.75). EI‐HMP group demonstrated a higher urine output on day 2 (p = 0.046), a shorter ICU stay (p < 0.0001), and a trend toward a shorter overall hospital stay (p = 0.07). No statistically significant differences were found between EI‐HMP and SCS cases in 1‐ and 3‐year overall survival rates (3.2% and 6.7% vs. 5.6% and 6.6%, respectively; log‐rank p = 0.53) or in death‐censored graft loss rates (5.4% and 8.9% vs. 5.7% and 7.3%, respectively; log‐rank p = 0.88). In a sub‐analysis of expanded criteria donors (ECD), EI‐HMP demonstrated a protective effect by reducing the risk of DGF (OR = 0.31, 95% CI = 0.09–0.95; p = 0.047).

Conclusion

EI‐HMP was associated with certain short‐term benefits, including increased urine output and reduced ICU stays, but showed no significant impact on long‐term survival outcomes. A reduction in DGF rates was observed only in the ECD subgroup. Randomized controlled trials are necessary to further investigate the long‐term clinical benefits of EI‐HMP.
Exploring Knowledge and Awareness of Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights Among Married Working Women: A Qualitative Study of Jaipur City
Authors: Sharma Anuradha , Jasrotia Amithy
Published: January 2025

Knowledge and awareness of Sexual and Reproductive Health/Rights (SRH/SRHR) have emerged as a prominent issue globally. Such knowledge leads to improved behaviors to minimize risks related to SRH as well as enhances women's autonomy regarding their fertility and sexuality. In the domain of SRH sociocultural norms and gender power dynamics play an even larger role in determining SRH outcomes. In India, despite progress in health, reproductive health remains a concern. SRH is still subjected to a social taboo in Indian society. Therefore, this study examines persistent challenges in acquiring knowledge of SRH among married working women, also, try to understand SRH issues from cultural and gender perspectives. An exploratory study conducted in Jaipur city (Rajasthan), included highly educated married working women (n = 104), using mixed‐methods with interviews and focus group discussions. Ethical guidelines ensured participant confidentiality and informed consent. Despite high educational and economic status significant gaps were found such as limited awareness of SRH concerns, family planning methods and SRHRs like rights to make informed decision, termination of pregnancy, maternity benefits, etc. This study emphasizes holistic approach to improve SRHR outcomes and advocated policy interventions for women of all sections of society.
Behaviour‐based pricing with overlapping ownership
Authors: Li Changying , Zhang Jianhu
Published: January 2025

Research has extensively explored why firms use their consumer information to price discriminate between repeat and new customers. This paper incorporates overlapping ownership and explores a more nuanced explanation for the practice. We isolate the different and interactive effects of overlapping ownership in different periods on equilibrium outcomes. In our explanation, firms use overlapping ownership to increase repeat purchase and customer retention and therefore may charge higher prices for both repeat and new customers, when they choose behaviour‐based pricing rather than uniform pricing. As a result, if the degree of overlapping ownership is not too small, behaviour‐based pricing benefits firms but hurts consumers.
Coumarin Analogues as Promising Anti‐Obesity Agents: In Silico Design, Synthesis, and In Vitro Pancreatic Lipase Inhibitory Activity
Authors: Yadav Nisha , Paul Atish T.
Published: January 2025

A set of coumarin‐3‐carboxamide analogues were designed, synthesized, and evaluated for their ability to impede pancreatic lipase (PL) activity. Out of all the analogues, 5dh and 5de demonstrated promising inhibitory activity against PL, as indicated by their respective IC50 values of 9.20 and 11.4 μM, as compared to Orlistat (IC50 = 0.97 μM). It was found that analogue 5dh inhibited PL in a competitive manner with an inhibition constant (Ki) of 4.504 μM. Additionally, the docking analysis validated the interactions between the analogue 5dh (MolDock score of −140.251 kcal/mol) and key amino acids in the active site, including Leu 153, Gly 76, Arg 256, His 151, Phe 77, and His 263. The inhibitory activity of these analogues was significantly correlated with their MolDock scores (Pearson's r = 0.6586). Finally, molecular dynamics simulation was also performed for 100 ns in order to elucidate the stability, confirmation and intermolecular interactions of the active analogue 5dh. The results of this investigation suggested that the complex maintained its stability despite the dynamic conditions exhibiting interactions with important amino acids. In summary, the outcomes indicated that the synthesized analogues exhibited the potential to inhibit PL activity.
Impact of hospital volume on survival in patients with locally advanced colon cancer – A Dutch population‐based study
Authors: de Nes L. C. F. , Tanis P. J. , Verhoeven R. H. , de Wilt J. H. W. , Vissers P. A. J.
Published: January 2025

Aim

Locally advanced colon cancer (LACC) often necessitates complex prognosis‐determining treatment. This study investigated the impact of hospital volume on short‐ and long‐term outcomes following surgery for LACC.

Method

Data involving all patients with LACC categorized as clinical T4 and/or N2, between 2015 and 2019 in the Netherlands, were extracted from the Netherlands Cancer Registry. Hospitals were stratified into low volume (1–19 LACC resections per year), medium volume (20–29 LACC resections per year) and high volume (≥30 LACC resections per year). Data were analysed using Kaplan–Meier curves, logistic regression analysis and Cox‐regression models.

Results

A total of 49 298 patients were diagnosed with colon cancer, of whom 9206 (18.7%) had locally advanced disease. Of these 9206 patients, resection was performed in 8537 with a median age of 71 (interquartile range: 63–78) years. Patients were more likely to undergo laparoscopic procedures in high‐volume hospitals than in low‐volume hospitals (OR = 1.28, 95% CI: 1.12–1.46). No risk differences in anastomotic leakage or postoperative 90‐day mortality were observed according to hospital volume. Five‐year overall survival rates were comparable among high‐, medium‐ and low‐volume hospitals (58.7% vs. 58.0% vs. 60.0%, p = 0.62). Hospital volume was not associated with overall survival in multivariable analysis. Independent predictors of worse overall survival included older age, higher American Society of Anaesthesiologists score, emergency/urgent setting, anastomotic leakage, higher pTNM status, involved resection margins and no adjuvant chemotherapy.

Conclusion

Despite the complexity of surgical treatment, hospital volume was not associated with survival in LACC. Hospital volume might be an imperfect surrogate for quality assessment.
Colorectal cAncer and CrohN's DIsease study (CANDID): An international multicentre retrospective audit
Authors: Garoufalia Zoe , Emile Sameh Hany , Dourado Justin , Boutros Marylise , Brady Richard , Celentano Valerio , Davies Justin , Fleshner Phillip R. , Gefen Rachel , Holubar Stefan D. , Horesh Nir , El‐Hussuna Alaa , Keller Deborah , Lightner Amy , Pellino Gianluca , Shawki Sherief , Siakavellas Spyros , Spinelli Antonino , Warusavitarne Janindra , Wexner Steven D.
Published: January 2025

Background

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) affects more than 10 million people worldwide. Men and women are equally affected by Crohn's disease (CD). It has been shown that patients with CD are at an increased risk of a colorectal cancer (CRC) diagnosis and CRC‐related mortality. During the last two decades, biological therapies have revolutionized the treatment of CD. There are no current studies investigating the prevalence of CRC in patients with CD in the era of biological therapy and the possible features of patients with CD who are at high risk of developing CRC.

Aim

We aim to assess the prevalence of CRC, risk factors and profile of CRC in patients with CD receiving biological treatment compared with those who are not under biological therapy and the impact of CD‐associated colorectal strictures on CRC development. The study hypothesis is that the use of biological therapy in the control of CD activity may decrease the risk of developing CRC.

Study design and setting

An international, retrospective, snapshot of the prevalence of CRC in patients with CD, reported according to the SPIRIT guidelines. The study will involve centres that hold regular IBD multidisciplinary team meetings and have both IBD colorectal surgeons and gastroenterologists. Each participating centre will provide a local consultant lead and a local trainee lead. Data will be collected within a 2‐year recruitment period (January 2017–January 2019).

Study population

Adult patients who presented with CD during the study period. Patients with an incidental diagnosis of CD during evaluation for CRC will be excluded.

Statistical plan

Baseline patient characteristics will be summarized using the appropriate descriptive statistics. Univariable, multivariable and Cox regression models will be used to identify factors significantly associated with CRC. For noncontinuous variables a comparison between the subgroups will be carried out using the chi‐square test corrected by Fisher's exact test if appropriate. A p‐value of <0.05 will be considered statistically significant.

Data storage

Data will be stored on a secured server, pin‐code protected according to the local data management agreement.
Temperate forests of high conservation value are successfully identified by satellite and LiDAR data fusion
Authors: Assmann Jakob J. , Pedersen Pil B. M. , Moeslund Jesper E. , Senf Cornelius , Treier Urs A. , Corcoran Derek , Koma Zsófia , Nord‐Larsen Thomas , Normand Signe
Published: January 2025

Forest ecosystems will play a critical role in achieving policy targets for biodiversity and conservation, such as those set out in the EU Biodiversity strategy for 2030. However, practitioners need to know where forests of high conservation value are to make the best‐informed decisions about which forests to prioritize. Here, we combine airborne LiDAR (airborne laser scanning/ALS), optical satellite imagery, and gridded datasets on soil and water availability with machine learning models to predict forests' conservation value across Denmark. We then use change‐detection algorithms to identify forests that had been disturbed since the collection of the LiDAR data to produce up‐to‐date estimates for the year 2020. Our models reached a high predictive capacity (82% accuracy) and suggested that 1982 km2 (~31%) of Denmark's forests were of potential high conservation value. Our study demonstrates the utility of data fusion approaches to identify forest areas of high value for conservation at fine spatial resolutions (~10–100 m) and nationwide extents. However, uncertainties remain in our approach. Hence, our findings should be used to guide field‐based assessments to confirm the in situ conservation value of the forests. Only in combination with such in situ data will approaches like ours enable decision makers to better protect forest biodiversity.
Outcomes of Liver Transplant for Hepatic Epithelioid Hemangioendothelioma
Authors: Larson Emily L. , Ciftci Yusuf , Jenkins Reed T. , Zhou Alice L. , Ruck Jessica M. , Philosophe Benjamin
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Hepatic epithelioid hemangioendothelioma (HEH) is a rare indication of liver transplant with limited evidence.

Methods

Adult recipients undergoing first‐time liver‐only transplant from 2002 to 2021 in the United States were identified using the UNOS/OPTN database. We compared post‐transplant outcomes of recipients receiving liver transplant for HEH versus other diagnoses. Survival was visualized using Kaplan‐Meier curves and compared using log‐rank test and multivariable Cox regression. Propensity score matching for recipient age, sex, and MELD was performed, with baseline characteristics and survival compared between groups.

Results

Of 111 558 liver transplant recipients identified, 121 (0.1%) underwent transplant for HEH. Donors to HEH recipients were more often living donors. Recipients with HEH were younger, more likely to be female, and had lower BMI. Recipients with HEH had higher albumin, lower bilirubin, lower INR, and lower serum creatinine, as well as lower MELD scores and rates of ascites and encephalopathy. Similar post‐transplant survival was observed for recipients with HEH (16.6 [lower 95% CI 14.9] years) and non‐HEH diagnoses (13.8 [95% CI 13.6–13.9] years, log‐rank p = 0.28), even after adjusting for baseline donor and recipient characteristics (aHR 1.28 [95% CI 0.94–1.74], p = 0.12). The propensity score matched cohort also had similar post‐LT survival.

Conclusions

This national study represents the largest known report on liver transplant for HEH. The survival of recipients with HEH was similar to other etiologies, supporting the use of liver transplantation (LT) in advanced HEH.
Clinical Outcomes and Safety Profiles of Generic Versus Brand‐Name Clopidogrel in Patients Following Coronary Artery Stent Placement
Authors: Chia Chin‐Yuan , Hsiao Fu‐Chih , Hsu Tzyy‐Jer , Tung Ying‐Chang , Lin Chia‐Pin , Chu Pao‐Hsien
Published: January 2025

Coronary artery disease remains a significant global health issue and is a leading cause of mortality. Dual antiplatelet therapy, including clopidogrel, is essential for preventing stent thrombosis after coronary artery stenting. This study assessed the comparative efficacy and safety of generic versus brand‐name clopidogrel in a large Taiwanese cohort. A retrospective cohort study was conducted using the National Health Insurance database, identifying patients who underwent coronary stenting and received either generic or brand‐name clopidogrel between January 1, 2008, and December 31, 2021. Propensity score matching was employed to balance baseline characteristics. The primary efficacy outcome was a composite of myocardial infarction, ischemic stroke, or cardiovascular death over a two‐year follow‐up. The primary safety outcome was major bleeding requiring hospitalization. A total of 211,509 patients were included, of which 2686 received generic clopidogrel and 208,823 received brand‐name clopidogrel. After matching, 2686 patients from each group were analyzed. The hazard ratio for the primary efficacy outcome was 0.92 (95% confidence interval: 0.78–1.10), indicating no significant difference between the two groups. The subdistribution hazard ratio for the primary safety outcome was 1.06 (95% confidence interval: 0.84–1.33), suggesting no significant difference in bleeding risk. Subgroup analyses showed consistent results across various patient demographics and clinical conditions. In conclusion, among patients undergoing coronary stenting, the risks of ischemic and bleeding events were comparable between those receiving generic and brand‐name clopidogrel.
Paving the Way towards Green Development: Impact of the Belt and Road Initiative on Electrification in Participating Countries
Authors: Zhou Mao , Wu Jiahui , Wang Xia , Liu Chang
Published: January 2025

Electrification is crucial for achieving global net zero emissions and reducing energy poverty, particularly in developing countries involved in the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). This study uses the difference‐in‐differences method to examine the BRI's impact on electrification levels in 118 countries from 2009 to 2020. Its findings indicate that the BRI increased electrification in BRI countries by approximately 1 percent compared with non‐BRI countries. This increase was driven primarily by enhanced trade and investments, which facilitated imports of power equipment and supported China‐backed power‐plant projects. The BRI's impact was more pronounced in Maritime Silk Road countries, high‐income nations, and those with favorable business environments. Although the BRI promoted both renewable and nonrenewable power equipment imports, it primarily favored nonrenewable infrastructure investments. Given China's expertise in clean energy, there remains untapped potential for the BRI to prioritize renewable energy integration, fostering a sustainable and low‐carbon future.
Young Adult Perspectives on Treatment Engagement and Family Communication During Psychosis
Authors: Ipekci Bediha , Thibeau Heather , Gibbs Jada , Barnard Emily , Kline Emily R.
Published: January 2025

Background

Fostering positive relationships with mental health professionals and involving family in treatment can reduce untreated psychosis duration and prevent dropout.

Aims

The present study explores the experiences of young adults with psychosis as they engage in mental health treatment and communicate with family caregivers. Describing their lived experiences would inform the clinical engagement process and pathways to clinical outcomes.

Methods

We conducted qualitative interviews with 12 individuals who have been diagnosed with a psychotic disorder within the past 5 years.

Results

Major themes include (1) Facilitators and barriers to robust treatment engagement, (2) Family involvement with treatment and communication about psychosis, and (3) Determinants of family communication quality.

Discussion

These themes highlight the pivotal role of the therapeutic alliance, measured family involvement, and positive family communication in facilitating treatment engagement. We discuss these qualitative findings in the context of patient‐centered care and family interventions.
Anisotropy of the Orientation Selectivity in the Visual Cortex Area 18 of Cats Reared Under Normal and Altered Visual Experience
Authors: Merkulyeva N. , Lyakhovetskii V. , Mikhalkin А.
Published: January 2025

The “oblique effect” refers to the reduced visual performance for stimuli presented at oblique orientations compared to those at cardinal orientations. In the cortex, neurons that respond to specific orientations are organized into orientation columns. This raises the question: Are the orientation signals in the iso‐orientation columns associated with cardinal orientations the same as those in the iso‐orientation columns associated with oblique orientations, and is this signal influenced by experience? To explore this, iso‐orientation columns in visual area 18 were examined using optical imaging techniques. Kittens were raised under either standard or modified conditions, including total darkness or rhythmic light stimulation through one or both eyes, which could potentially disrupt the orientation tuning of visual neurons. A signal profile around the pinwheel center was calculated to assess the distribution of the orientation signal within the hypercolumn. This profile exhibits a sinusoidal pattern with identifiable minima and maxima. To emphasize that these amplitude variations are localized within a specific circle rather than throughout the entire optical map, we used the terms “local minima” and “local maxima.” The number of local maxima in areas corresponding to oblique orientations was similar to those in regions associated with vertical orientations. The highest number of local maxima was found in horizontal iso‐orientation columns, indicating a “horizontal bias.” This finding may be related to the postnatal development of sensory–sensory and sensory–motor integrations involving the visual system. We propose that the data presented should be incorporated into mathematical models of visual cortex activity, as well as vision itself.
Characteristics of adult children with autism and caregiver burden
Authors: Marsack‐Topolewski Christina N. , Wang Fei , Samuel Preethy Sarah
Published: January 2025

Objective

This study's purpose was to determine if parental perceptions of their adult children's communication, behavior, and socialization skills were significantly associated with caregiver burden after controlling for income and age of the child with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

Background

Most parents provide support to their children with ASD across the lifespan. This study focused on informing knowledge gaps in caregiving literature in determining which ASD characteristics contribute to caregiver burden.

Method

Data gathered from 320 parents of adult children with ASD were used to conduct regression analysis to understand how caregiver burden was influenced by three core characteristics of ASD while controlling for age and income.

Results

Behavior of the adult child predicted caregiver burden and its four types, whereas communication predicted time dependence burden. Caregivers with higher income reported less total and developmental burden and those with older children reported less time dependence burden.

Conclusion

Findings demonstrate that behavioral challenges of an adult child with ASD contribute significantly to the parental perceptions of caregiver burden, warranting support for aging parents.

Implications

Professionals should be encouraged and supported to provide services to parents who support their adult children with decreased communication abilities, behavioral, and/or socialization challenges daily.
Thermal Damage Impact on Negative Poisson's Ratio of Granite Under Brazilian Tensile Loading
Authors: Wang Tianzuo , Wang Jisha , Xue Fei , Huang Xiaolin , Lin Zhongqin , Liang Zhu
Published: January 2025

This study investigates the effects of thermal damage on the tensile behavior of granite during Brazilian splitting tests, focusing on the negative Poisson's ratio (NPR) effect. Using digital image correlation and acoustic emission techniques, the research reveals that increasing thermal damage from 25°C to 800°C reduces granite tensile strength by up to 85.7% and induces a brittle‐to‐ductile transition. The NPR effect emerges, intensifies, and subsequently disappears as temperature increases, significantly altering stress distribution and deformation patterns. Local contraction zones created by the NPR effect can lead to overestimation of tensile strength in thermally damaged rock. Acoustic emission monitoring demonstrates a strong correlation between the NPR effect and microcrack development. These findings advance the understanding of rock mechanical behavior under thermal damage and provide practical insights for tensile strength evaluation in high‐temperature geological settings, such as deep underground energy development and nuclear waste disposal.
Social‐Ecological Dynamics of Sustainable Small‐Scale Fisheries Management in the Sundarbans Mangrove Forest Region, Bangladesh
Authors: Karim Md Rezaul , Ahasan S. M. Nayem , Ashik Ur Rahman Md
Published: January 2025

We employed a social‐ecological systems (SES) framework to investigate the interplay of social and ecological factors influencing the sustainable management of common pool resources, the Sundarbans mangrove forest region in Bangladesh as a case study. Through qualitative and quantitative analyses, we identified positive and negative correlations between dimensions of the SES. Four positive and two negative correlations between dimensions of social systems and ecological systems highlighted the interconnectedness of dimensions in the SES framework. Our study only considered spatial variation across the four SES dimensions, which revealed distinct management practices within the region. Our findings underscored the importance of tailored management strategies to address specific SES dimensions. Enhanced stakeholder participation and institutional frameworks could bolster governance systems and actor capacity, while interventions targeting ecosystem health and species populations may improve sustainable resource systems and resource unit capacity. Our findings provide insights for policymakers and practitioners who seek to promote the sustainability of small‐scale fisheries within SES contexts.
Impact of Glaciers on Trophic Dynamics and Polyunsaturated Fat Accumulation in Southern Greenland Fjord Ecosystems
Authors: Saboret Grégoire , Moccetti Coralie , Wassenaar Leonard I. , Matthews Blake , Aquino Norberto Jr. , Janssen David J. , Brodersen Jakob , Schubert Carsten J.
Published: January 2025

The primary production of fjords across the Arctic and Subarctic is undergoing significant transformations due to the climatically driven retreat of glaciers and ice sheets. However, the implications of these changes for upper trophic levels remain largely unknown. In this study, we employ both bulk and compound‐specific stable isotope analyses to investigate how shifts at the base of fjord food webs impact the carbon and energy sources of consumers. Focusing on two rapidly changing fjords in Southern Greenland, we used the migratory Arctic char as an indicator species, sampling populations along environmental gradients within the fjords, building upon the assumption that char populations feed primarily close to their natal stream, thereby integrating a dietary gradient. Our analysis of bulk stable isotopes in Arctic char tissue confirmed this premise, revealing a consistent change in resource use from the outer to the inner fjord, which nonetheless served as preferred feeding grounds. Essential amino acid analysis further indicated shifts in carbon and nitrogen sources, consistent with changes in nutrient use near glacier inputs characterized by low turbidity and high iron levels. Notably, these changes in the source of primary production were associated with shifts in trophic positions and the transfer of polyunsaturated fatty acids, with Arctic char in glacier‐influenced inner fjords feeding at lower trophic level (size‐corrected) and accumulating higher levels of high‐quality docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). These findings highlight the usefulness of new analytical tools in revealing that glacial retreat can substantially alter food web dynamics, enhancing both carbon flow and the nutritional quality of fish in fjord ecosystems. The two Southern Greenland fjords studied could represent the future of other fjords, where retreating glaciers become land‐terminating and glacial inputs decrease. Our study underscores the critical role of glacier dynamics in affecting high‐level consumers, such as salmonids, with implications for fjords globally.
Erenumab in a patient with persistent headaches after subarachnoid hemorrhage: A case report of an effective treatment
Authors: Gandhi Ajay , Quinoa Travis R. , Geller Eric , Khandelwal Priyank , Agarwalla Pankaj K.
Published: January 2025

A patient with persistent refractory headaches from aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage was treated with monthly erenumab injections, a monoclonal antibody to the calcitonin gene–related peptide (CGRP) receptor. These injections decreased the frequency and severity of the patient's debilitating headaches from daily to once or twice per month with positive improvement in function and quality of life. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case in the literature of a patient with persistent post‐subarachnoid hemorrhage headache that was successfully treated with an antibody against the CGRP receptor. This case report highlights the role of CGRP in post‐subarachnoid hemorrhage headaches and the potential role for CGRP pathway‐based therapies as an effective treatment.
Preparation and corrosion resistance to cathode materials for lithium‐ion batteries of CA6 foam ceramics
Authors: Yin Bo , Wang Hailu , Li Yuanbing , Fan Changlong , Li Shujing , Xu Xin
Published: January 2025

CA6 foam ceramics (CA6‐FCs) with CA6 as the main crystalline phase were prepared by adding CA6 powder through gel casting process, which reduced the severe shrinkage in the reaction synthesis process of CA6. This simple preparation process can realize the industrial production of CA6‐FCs. The linear change and physical properties of CA6‐FCs can be controlled by adjusting the additional amount of CA6 powder and the solid content of the slurry. The corrosion resistance of CA6‐FCs is better than that of the current mainstream mullite thermal insulation materials in lithium‐ion battery cathode materials. Through the simple process of this study, on the basis of industrial production, CA6‐FCs can replace mullite lightweight thermal insulation materials to improve the alkali corrosion resistance, service life, and maintain production safety of kiln lining.
Supply Chain Digitalization and Agility: How Does Firm Innovation Matter in Companies?
Authors: Wang Michael , Hill Alex , Liu Yang , Hwang Ki‐Soon , Lim Ming K.
Published: January 2025

This study investigates the impact of supply chain digitalization on agility through the lens of innovation within firms. Employing a resource‐based view and dynamic capabilities approach, we analyze the relationship between supply chain digitalization and agility. This exploration is essential for fostering an agile supply chain capable of addressing challenges post COVID‐19. The empirical data were gathered through a survey administered in the Emirates. Factor analysis was performed to validate the measurement models and structural equation modeling techniques were employed to test the hypotheses. Further, the study analyses the mediating role of firm innovation between digitalization and supply chain agility within companies. The findings suggest that firm innovation serves as a significant mediator. Moreover, a multigroup analysis was conducted to examine the moderating effects in the research models, revealing that firm innovation plays a pivotal role in elucidating the mechanism between supply chain digitalization and agility. This study offers valuable insights into supply chain agility and resilience post COVID‐19 and makes a significant contribution to the literature on supply chain digitalization.
Incidence of Venous Thromboembolism in Asian Patients With Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Song Joo Hye , Shim Sung Ryul , Kim Dae Sung , Koo Hoon Sup , Huh Kyu Chan
Published: January 2025

Background/Aims

Although incidence and prevalence of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) have been gradually increasing throughout Asia, incidence of venous thromboembolism (VTE) in Asia is relatively lower than that in Western and is not well known. This study aimed to evaluate incidence of VTE in Asian IBD patients using a systematic review and meta‐analysis.

Methods

Studies were identified through literature search of the PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane databases (from inception inclusive April 2024) for English studies. The criteria for selecting participants were as follows: (1) studies including patients with Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis in the Asian population; (2) comparisons were specified as with control group of non‐IBD patients for comparative incidence; and (3) outcomes were measured by relative risks (RRs) and hazard risk for VTE incidence in nationwide cohort studies. Three independent reviewers extracted published data using standardized procedure in accordance with the reporting guidelines. A fixed‐effects model was used to estimate pooled effect sizes. Meta‐regression analyses were conducted to identify the potential moderating effects of VTE risk in IBD patients.

Results

Five studies met the inclusion criteria. The pooled RR for overall VTE incidence in Asian IBD patients compared with that in non‐IBD patients was 2.065 (95% CI: 1.905–2.238). There was no statistical moderating effect of the variables (mean age, female rate, CD proportion, and country) on the outcomes.

Conclusions

In our study, VTE incidence in Asian IBD patients was higher than that in non‐IBD patients. It seemed reasonable to consider prophylaxis for VTE in hospitalized IBD patients.
Outsourcing Bank Loan Screening: The Economics of Third‐Party Loan Guarantees
Authors: SHAN CHENYU , TANG DRAGON YONGJUN , WANG WENYA
Published: January 2025

We provide the first theoretical and empirical study on third‐party loan guarantees, a prevalent financing channel worldwide for small borrowers. In our model, the project default probability is unobservable but can be probabilistically discovered with a screening cost. Guarantors, who are more cost‐effective in screening than banks, investigate borrowers and facilitate the financing of borrowers with insufficient collateral. Our data support this outsourcing theory: guarantor's risk measure predicts firms' default losses. Patterns of guarantee fees and loan rates are consistent with model predictions. Our findings illustrate how guarantors produce information and increase the efficiency of small business lending.
The Scope of Nurses' Assessment of Deteriorating Patients in Coronary Care Units: A Mixed Methods Study
Authors: Woolfe Loftus Nicholas , Smith Duncan , Aitken Leanne M
Published: January 2025

Background

Despite the high acuity of coronary care unit (CCU) patients and their risk of deterioration, little is known about how nurses assess them.

Aim

Increase understanding of the scope of nurses' assessments of deteriorating CCU patients.

Design

Online mixed methods survey.

Methods

The mRAPIDS (modified Rescuing a Patient in Deteriorating Situations) tool was used to measure assessment scope in responses to a patient vignette with a higher mRAPID score signalling broader scope (maximum score 24). Reflections on day‐to‐day practice were collected concurrently and thematically analysed. Themes were integrated with scores using a joint display table and organised into domains. Comparing ‘fit’ between data showed expansion (overlap with broader nonoverlapping findings) and disconcordance (contradictory findings).

Results

Thirty‐four nurses responded, and scope of assessment was found to be narrow (median mRAPIDS 5). Two domains were identified that helped explain this finding ‘the act of assessment’ and ‘education and experience’. Participants emphasised the importance of education and experience, neither increased assessment scope.

Conclusion

This study showed that participant assessments were generally narrower than widely accepted best practice (ABCDE assessment).

Implications

Participant assessments did not reflect gold standard A‐E assessment, which may partly reflect a need for assessment frameworks that are more compatible with real‐world practice. Further research is required to understand the role of healthcare assistants in the care of deteriorating CCU patients. Clinical judgement is important, but not yet well understood in rapid response systems.

Impact

This study offers preliminary understanding of nurses' assessments of deteriorating patients in CCUs.

Reporting Method

American Psychological Association, Mixed Methods Standards.

Patient or Public Contribution

Reviewed protocol, aided result interpretation and shared ideas for future research.
Effects of Capsaicin on Masticatory and Swallowing Function
Authors: Taniguchi Hiroshige , Hirumuta Makoto , Nakazawa Yuri , Ohashi Miho , Aoyagi Yoichiro
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Recent studies have shown that capsaicin improves the pharyngeal swallowing reflex. However, the mechanism by which capsaicin alters mastication and oesophageal function remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the effects of capsaicin on masticatory and oesophageal function.

Materials and Methods

Participants were 12 healthy individuals (7 men, 5 women: aged 31.5 ± 3.0 years). The participants ingested five rice cakes without capsaicin and then five rice cakes containing capsaicin. Total mastication frequency, total mastication time, and mastication rate were measured. Pharyngeal and upper oesophageal sphincter (UES) parameters were evaluated using high‐resolution manometry (HRM). The masticatory and HRM parameters were compared between the ingestion of capsaicin‐containing and non‐capsaicin containing rice cakes.

Results

The total mastication frequency and total mastication time(s) for capsaicin ingestion were significantly smaller (20.3 ± 9.4 vs. 22.4 ± 7.4; p = 0.011) and shorter (14.2 ± 7.0 vs. 15.4 ± 5.6; p = 0.038), respectively, than those for non‐capsaicin ingestion. Comparison of the HRM parameters revealed significantly higher hypopharyngeal contractile integral (mmHg‐s‐cm) (56.6 ± 40.7 vs. 49.7 ± 43.6; p = 0.016) and proximal oesophageal contractile integral (mmHg‐s‐cm) (492.3 ± 292.64 vs. 381.2 ± 266; p < 0.001), significantly shorter UES basal pressure (mmHg) (93.6 ± 37.8 vs. 114.5 ± 43.4; p < 0.001), and significantly longer UES relaxation time (ms) (486.7 ± 90.7 vs. 431.2 ± 82.3; p < 0.001) for capsaicin ingestion than for non‐capsaicin ingestion.

Conclusions

Decreased mastication frequency and time, increased hypopharyngeal and proximal oesophageal contractile integral, and prolonged UES opening time with capsaicin ingestion suggests that capsaicin improves oral, pharyngeal and oesophageal phases of swallowing.
Higher Levels of Dispositional Mindfulness Are Associated With More Effective Ecological Momentary Intervention Outcomes in Reducing the Frequency of Awake Bruxism Behaviours
Authors: Prado‐e‐Silva Letícia , de Oliveira Melchior Melissa , Mélo Alex Moreira , Stuginski‐Barbosa Juliana , Mazzi‐Chaves Jardel Francisco , Díaz‐Serrano Kranya Victoria , da Silva Gherardi‐Donato Edilaine Cristina , Leite‐Panissi Christie Ramos Andrade , Magri Laís Valencise
Published: January 2025

Background

Previous research has highlighted the multifactorial nature of awake bruxism (AB), including its associations with stress, anxiety and other psychological factors. Dispositional mindfulness, known for its benefits in enhancing emotional regulation and reducing stress, has not yet been thoroughly investigated in association with AB.

Objective

This study aimed to investigate whether levels of dispositional mindfulness predict the efficacy of ecological momentary intervention (EMI) in reducing the frequency of AB behaviours.

Methods

This study employed a quasi‐experimental design with a correlational component and involved 83 undergraduate dental students categorised into high and low mindfulness groups based on the Mindfulness Attention and Awareness Scale (MAAS). An EMI was implemented using the No Clenching mobile app, which sent 12 alerts per day over 1 month. The primary outcome measure was a 50% reduction in the frequency of AB behaviours.

Results

A significant positive relationship was found between dispositional mindfulness levels and the reduction in AB behaviours. Participants with higher mindfulness levels experienced a greater reduction in AB frequency compared to those with lower mindfulness levels. Mixed‐effects regression analysis revealed that mindfulness levels were a significant predictor of bruxism reduction (β = 0.45, p < 0.01). The coefficient for MAAS was positive and significant (coefficient = 1.5305, p < 0.001), indicating that higher mindfulness levels are associated with greater reductions in AB frequency. Additionally, a significantly higher percentage of participants in the high mindfulness group (97.5%) achieved a 50% reduction in AB behaviours compared to the low mindfulness group (62%).

Conclusion

Higher levels of dispositional mindfulness are associated with more effective EMI outcomes in reducing AB behaviours. Incorporating mindfulness‐based approaches into intervention strategies for AB could lead to more personalised and effective treatments.
Vitamin D3 Is Not a Limiting Nutrient Regarding Growth Performance and Tibia Parameters in the Rearing Period of Laying Hens Bred for High Laying Performance Compared to Non‐Selected Resource Populations
Authors: Kölln Mareike , Frahm Jana , Halle Ingrid , Hüther Liane , Kluess Jeannette , Meyer‐Sievers Henrieke , Schrader Lars , Weigend Steffen , Dänicke Sven
Published: January 2025

Bone damages in laying hens are of great concern in poultry farming. Besides various risk factors like housing systems or nutrient supply during egg production, it has often been hypothesized that genetically high‐performing laying hens may be more prone to bone damages. The relevance of dietary support during the rearing period of pullets for optimal bone development has been little addressed so far. In the present study, an increasing dietary vitamin D3 content within EU legislation was tested during the first 12 weeks of life in two high and two moderate‐performing pullet lines (white and brown layer lines). For this purpose, a total of 940 chickens of both sexes were housed at the Institute of Animal Welfare and Animal Husbandry (Friedrich‐Loeffler‐Institut, Germany). The three experimental diets differed only regarding the added vitamin D3 amount (300/1000/3000 IU Cholecalciferol/kg diet). After every 4 weeks, randomly chosen animals per genotype and dietary treatment were slaughtered for dissection. Serum 25(OH)‐Vitamin D3 concentrations reflected the dietary treatment. Body weight differed regarding genotype. No effect of dietary vitamin D3 content as a single influence factor on bone parameters like breaking strength, bone dimensions or mineral content could be shown, but age, sex and genotype had impacts and influenced traits in an interactive manner. Therefore, during the first 12 weeks of the rearing period of layer pullets, the different dietary vitamin D3 contents did not influence performance or bone parameters in the four genetically diverse purebred layer lines. Adjusted dietary vitamin D3 recommendations for pullets depending on genetically predetermined egg‐laying performance do not appear to be necessary if dietary vitamin D3 contents are within EU legislation.
Epigenetic Modifications in HBV‐Related Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Tan Xiaoqing , Xun Linting , Yin Qi , Chen Chaohui , Zhang Tao , Shen Tao
Published: January 2025

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common primary liver cancer. Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is the main pathogen for HCC development. HBV covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA) forms extra‐host chromatin‐like minichromosomes in the nucleus of hepatocytes with host histones, non‐histones, HBV X protein (HBx) and HBV core protein (HBc). Epigenetic alterations are dynamic and reversible, which regulate gene expression without altering the DNA sequence and play a pivotal role in the regulation of HCC onset and progression. The aim of this review is to elucidate the deregulation of epigenetic mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of HBV‐related HCC (HBV‐HCC), including post‐translational histone and non‐histone modifications, DNA hypermethylation and hypomethylation, non‐coding RNA modification on HBV cccDNA minichromosomes and host factors, effecting the replication/transcription of HBV cccDNA and transcription/translation of host genes, and thus HBV‐HCC progression. It is expected that the epigenetic regulation perspective provides new ways for more in‐depth development of therapeutic control of HBV‐HCC.
Early Evidence of “Finance for Normal People” in the First Era of Globalization
Authors: Merli Maxime , Parent Antoine
Published: January 2025

In this paper, we unearth a forgotten study of Pierre Des Essars, the director of research at the Banque de France in the late 19th century, enriched with comments from contemporary financial analysts. Des Essars provides the first and only existing example of the actual composition of French individual portfolios during the Belle Époque. By revisiting what is generally taught, our analyses show that many of the intuitions of “finance for normal people” were already present in the financial analysts' writings during the Belle Époque. Specifically, we show in an unprecedented way that these writings prefigure behavioral portfolio theory word for word a century before its emergence. In addition, our findings highlight that this popular science of investment was born from observations of individual portfolios and the objective of providing financial education for the masses. Finally, we reveal strong invariants in the construction of behavioral finance versus standard finance a century apart.