bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of fig maceration under various conditions on physicochemical and sensory attributes of wine vinegar: A comprehensive characterization study
Authors: Segura‐Borrego Maria del Pilar , Ramírez Pilar , Ríos‐Reina Rocío , Morales Maria Lourdes , Callejón Raquel María , León Gutiérrez Juan Manuel
Published: October 2024

In this work, wine vinegars macerated with figs under different conditions have been characterized for the first time. Samples were analyzed by solid phase microextraction and gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry, sensory and physicochemical analysis. The results revealed that fig maceration of wine vinegars influenced the physicochemical, sensory, and volatile profiles of the final product, which were mainly affected by the fig amount (10, 20 or 30%), the fig type (fresh or dry) and the base wine vinegar (young or aged) used, and to a lesser extent the way the fig was added (crushed or chopped). The maceration, regardless the conditions used, increased the fruity notes, overall taste and visual impression, the tonality, total polyphenols and sugar content, and the presence of some volatile compounds, mainly terpenes and ketones, such as (Z)‐p‐mentha‐2,8‐dien‐1‐ol, or β‐damascenone. Therefore, maceration increased the organoleptic complexity, which could enhance the acceptability of consumers towards these products.

Practical Application

This research studied how wine vinegars macerated with figs affect in different ways their taste, smell, and chemical properties. Thus, the results showed that these wine vinegars made with fig maceration by using different amounts and types of figs, as well as the type of vinegar used, changed their characteristics, making them smell and taste fruitier and more pleasant. This could be useful for making better‐tasting and more appealing vinegars for consumers who enjoy unique and enhanced flavors in their food.
Effect of NaCl replacement by other salt mixtures on myofibrillar proteins: Underlining protein structure, gel formation, and chewing properties
Authors: Shi Haibo , Li Yongjie , Zheng Jiabao , Yao Xianqi , Wang Wei , Tomasevic Igor , Sun Weizheng
Published: October 2024

The protein structure, gel changes, and chewing properties of low‐sodium myofibrillar protein (MP) prepared by compound chloride salts (KCl/MgCl2, KCl/CaCl2, and KCl/MgCl2/CaCl2) and different substitution degrees (10%, 25%, and 40%) at same ionic strength (0.6 M) were investigated. The results revealed that the low‐sodium MP gels containing CaCl2 manifested more liquid loss and less moisture content accompanied by obvious morphological shrinkage, while KCl/MgCl2 contributed to the gel juiciness. At high substitution degree of 40%, KCl/CaCl2 substitution rendered the gel with dense structure and highest strength, but worse water retention capacity. Using other compound chloride salts influenced the chewing efficiency, and CaCl2 substitution made the gel relatively hard to chew. The inhomogeneous structure accompanied by cluster blocks in KCl/CaCl2‐substituted MP gel accelerated the overall fracture rate. During heating process, more proteins in CaCl2‐substituted MP did not participate in gel formation, intervening the final gel properties. The chloride salt mixtures containing MgCl2, rather than CaCl2, avoided or alleviated the liquid loss and shrinkage of low‐sodium MP gel within the substitution degree of 10%–40%, and substitution degree not exceeding 25% was more reasonable for the controlled qualities.
Sedimentary Expressions of the Early Jurassic Jenkyns Event in an Inland Lacustrine System in the Yin'gen–Ejinaqi Basin, North China
Authors: YANG Bing , XU Guozhen , HUI Guangji , WEI Yi , ZHANG Xinzhi , YI Jinjun , SUN Siyuan , ZHANG Sujiang
Published: October 2024

The Jenkyns Event, more widely known as the Toarcian Oceanic Anoxic Event (T‐OAE), is marked by globally distributed negative carbon‐isotope excursions, widespread oxygen depletion, and large‐scale organic carbon burial, which indicate major climate/environmental perturbations in Earth's surface systems during the Early Jurassic. Although extensive research has been conducted in European continental settings, particularly in the western peri‐Tethys regions, the impacts of this event beyond Europe remains largely unexplored. Here, a multiapproach study including investigations into the spore‐pollen assemblages, pyrite framboids, clay minerals, total organic carbon (TOC) levels, and organic carbon isotope (δ13Corg) levels in a lacustrine borehole section (MED1) from the Yin'gen–Ejinaqi Basin, North China, provides evidence of the occurrence of the Jenkyns Event and its extensive sedimentary responses in the eastern Tethys terrestrial systems. Two distinct spore‐pollen assemblages have been identified in MED1 (drilling depth: 982.4 m to 1267.5 m), with the Cycadopites–Protopinus–Osmundacidites assemblage in the lower part (1267.5 m to 1132.9 m) indicating a middle Early Jurassic age and the Classopollis assemblage in the upper part (1132.9 m to 985.7 m) suggesting a Toarcian age. Framboidal pyrite data suggest more anoxic conditions during the deposition of black mudstone and shale intercalations in the lower part of the Classopollis assemblage (1132.9 m to 1066.9 m), which combined with organic carbon enrichment and negative δ13Corg excursions, are considered the paleoenvironmental response to the Jenkyns Event in the study area. Furthermore, the evolution of vegetation groups changed from plant groups characterized by bisaccate and cycad pollen, as well as fern spores, to vegetation groups represented by Cheirolepidiaceae pollen across the Jenkyns Event, as evidenced by spore‐pollen data, together with the clay mineral assemblage change characterized by a notable increase in illite at the expense of kaolinite, suggests that while a subtropical‐temperate climate persisted, a change toward warmer and drier conditions most likely occurred in the early Toarcian in the study area. In contrast to the humidification evidenced in many coastal settings, this aridification trend in the Yin'gen–Ejinaqi Basin aligns with the conditions in many inland areas. It is hypothesized that the underlying cause of these divergent changes may be linked to certain patterns of spatially variable water availability on land, potentially driven by extremified hydrological conditions.
Characterization of renal injury in non‐squamous non‐small cell lung cancer patients treated with pemetrexed: A single‐center retrospective study
Authors: Wu Yang , Miao Kang , Chen Minjiang , Xu Yan , Zhong Wei , Wang Hanping , Si Xiaoyan , Zhang Xiaotong , Zhang Li , Zhao Jing , Wang Mengzhao
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Pemetrexed is a key therapeutic agent for advanced non‐squamous non‐small cell lung cancer (Nsq‐NSCLC), yet it is associated with renal toxicity. This study aims to elucidate the incidence, risk factors, and survival impact of renal injury in patients with Nsq‐NSCLC treated with pemetrexed.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective study including 136 patients with Nsq‐NSCLC treated with pemetrexed. Data on demographics, renal function, progression‐free survival (PFS), and overall survival (OS) were collected. Renal injury was defined as a reduction above 25% in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) from baseline. Its associated risk factors were analyzed using logistic regression, and impact on survival was analyzed using log‐rank test. The creatinine clearance rate (CCr) was calculated, and a CCr < 45 mL/min served as a contraindication for continuing pemetrexed.

Results

The study found a 31.6% (43/136) incidence of renal injury, with 9.6% (13/136) having CCr < 45 mL/min and discontinuing pemetrexed. Univariate and multivariate analyses identified factors significantly associated with increased renal injury risk including older age, use of cisplatin, and higher number of pemetrexed cycles. The patients with renal injury had a median PFS (mPFS) of 13.5 months and a median OS (mOS) of 36.0 months, while the patients without had an mPFS of 9.0 months and an mOS of 35.0 months, and these differences were not statistically significant.

Conclusion

Renal injury is a considerable complication in patients with Nsq‐NSCLC undergoing pemetrexed treatment, with age, platinum type, and pemetrexed treatment cycles as key risk factors. These findings highlight the necessity for careful renal monitoring in this patient population.
Inaugural Australian urology bootcamp for early‐career medical officers: improving knowledge, skills, and confidence to prepare for registrar years
Authors: Williams Zoe , Ananthapadmanabhan Shravankrishna , Ranasinghe Sachinka , Combes Alexander , Saad Jeremy , Ayeni Femi E. , Mehan Nicholas , Arianayagam Mohan , Varol Celalettin , Myint Michael , Jeffery Nicola , Thangasamy Isaac , Ko Raymond , Canagasingham Bertram , Khadra Mohamed
Published: October 2024

Background

Surgical bootcamps provide hands‐on learning opportunities for junior doctors and trainees in low‐pressure, non‐clinical environments. Participants develop skills, knowledge, and confidence in preparation for their registrar years. A number of international urology‐specific bootcamps have demonstrated improvements in these technical and non‐technical domains. However, there was no such opportunity for Australian doctors. In the first urology bootcamp in Australia, we aimed to assess participants' knowledge, technical skills, and confidence in managing urological conditions pre‐ and post‐bootcamp.

Methods

Twenty‐five early‐career medical officers attended the bootcamp and completed a comprehensive written survey at the beginning and end of the bootcamp.

Results

Results showed that self‐perceptions of knowledge, confidence, and technical skill all improved at the conclusion of the bootcamp (P = 0.01). All participants reported the bootcamp to be ‘useful’ or ‘very useful’ in furthering their urological training.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates the success of an inaugural Australian urology bootcamp in preparing junior doctors and unaccredited registrars for their registrar training years.
Experiences of discrimination and snacking behavior in Black and Latinx children
Authors: Ehrlich Katherine B. , Brisson Julie M. , Wiggins Elizabeth R. , Lyle Sarah M. , Celia‐Sanchez Manuela , Gallegos Daisy , Langer Anna , Ross Kharah M. , Gerend Mary A.
Published: October 2024

Little is known about how discrimination contributes to health behaviors in childhood. We examined the association between children's exposure to discrimination and their snacking behavior in a sample of youth of color (N = 164, Mage = 11.5 years, 49% female, 60% Black, 40% Hispanic/Latinx). We also explored whether children's body mass index (BMI) or sleepiness moderated the association between discrimination and calorie consumption. The significant link between discrimination and calorie consumption was moderated by children's BMI, such that discrimination was associated with calorie consumption for children with BMI percentiles above 79%. Children's sleepiness did not serve as an additional moderator. Efforts to promote health should consider children's broader socio‐contextual experiences, including discrimination, as factors that may shape eating patterns.
Comparative Side‐Effects of Neurosurgical Treatment of Treatment‐Resistant Depression
Authors: Keat Alexandre Lim Eng , Li Keith Tan Jian , Hau Teo Chuin , Soga Tomoko
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Treatment‐resistant depression (TRD) is a condition in which patients suffering from depression no longer respond to common methods of treatment, such as anti‐depressant medication. Neurosurgical procedures such as ablative surgery, deep brain stimulation, and vagus nerve stimulation have been used in efforts to overcome TRD.

Objectives

This review aims to provide an overview of the side effects of neurosurgery performed in clinical studies related to depression.

Methods

A literature search was conducted through PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, Ovid, and ClinicalTrials.gov databases.

Results

This review selected 10 studies for ablative surgery, 12 for deep brain stimulation, and 10 for vagus nerve stimulation, analyzing their side effect profiles of neurosurgery for TRD. The major side effects of each type of neurosurgery were identified, such as incontinence and confusion for ablative surgery, headaches and increased suicide ideation for deep brain stimulation, and voice hoarseness and dyspnea for vagus nerve stimulation.

Conclusion

The review discusses the merits and demerits of neurosurgery as a treatment option for TRD. It also suggests new insights into decreasing the burden of these neurosurgical side effects so that they can be a viable, high‐efficacy treatment method for TRD.
Anti‐obesity treatment preferences of healthcare providers and people living with obesity: A survey‐based study
Authors: Le Roux Carel W. , Koroleva Anna , Larsen Sara , Foot Ellie
Published: October 2024

A cross‐sectional, online survey was conducted in the United Kingdom, France, Germany, and the United States (14 November–22 December 2022) to investigate preferences for anti‐obesity medication (AOM) among people with obesity (PwO) and healthcare providers (HCPs). Eligibility: Adult PwO who self‐defined their body type as overweight/obese, were trying to lose weight and had BMI ≥30.0 or 27.0–29.9 kg/m2 with ≥1 obesity‐related complication; HCPs had to see ≥30 PwO in a typical month and be a decision‐maker regarding their weight loss. The survey included 2500 PwO and 500 HCPs. Exercise (96%) and diet (90%) were the most common weight management methods; AOM use was low (8%). Key barriers to use of prescribed AOMs among PwO were not wanting to take AOM (34%), side effects concerns (33%), and not trusting AOM (26%). Most HCPs (79%) had prescribed/recommended AOMs. Efficacy was the most common reason for preferring one of the shown product profiles among PwO (60%) and HCPs (86%); improving cardiovascular risk was also important to 95% of HCPs when deciding which AOM to prescribe. AOM preference is largely driven by efficacy. Increasing knowledge could help to address barriers to AOM use and improve outcomes for PwO.
Fructose restriction has beneficial effects on adipose tissue distribution but not on serum adipokine levels: Post‐hoc analysis of a double‐blind randomized controlled trial
Authors: van Oeteren Michelle A. J. , Simons Nynke , Simons Pomme I. H. G. , van de Waarenburg Marjo P. H. , Kooi M. Eline , Feskens Edith J. M. , van der Ploeg E. M. C. (Liesbeth) , Van den Eynde Mathias D. G. , Houben Alfons J. H. M. , Schalkwijk Casper G. , Brouwers Martijn C. G. J.
Published: October 2024

We aimed to examine the effects of isocaloric fructose restriction on adipose tissue distribution and serum adipokines. Individuals with BMI >28 kg/m2 (n = 44) followed a 6‐week fructose‐restricted diet and were randomly allocated to (double‐blind) oral supplementation with fructose (control) or glucose (intervention) powder three times daily. Visceral (VAT) and subcutaneous (SAT) adipose tissue was quantified with MRI. Serum interleukin 6 and 8, tumour necrosis factor alpha and adiponectin levels were measured with sandwich immunoassay. BMI decreased in both groups, but the change did not differ between groups (−0.1 kg/m2, 95%CI: −0.3; 0.5). SAT decreased statistically significantly in the control group (−23.2 cm3, 95%CI: −49.4; −4.1), but not in the intervention group. The change in SAT did not differ between groups (29.6 cm3, 95%CI: −1.2; 61.8). No significant differences in VAT were observed within or between study arms. The VAT/SAT ratio decreased statistically significantly in the intervention group (−0.02, 95%CI: −0.04; −0.003) and the change was significantly different between groups (−0.03, 95%CI: −0.54; −0.003). Serum adipokine levels were not affected by the intervention. This study shows that a fructose‐restricted diet resulted in a favourable change in adipose tissue distribution, but did not affect serum adipokines. Further studies are warranted to clarify the underlying mechanisms how fructose affects adipose tissue distribution.
Do CEOs' Industry Tournament Incentives Affect Stock Liquidity?
Authors: Chowdhury Hasibul , Hasan Mostafa Monzur , Luong Hoang , Xu Suichen
Published: October 2024

Research Question/Issue

We examine the relationship between CEOs' industry tournament incentives (CITI) and stock liquidity in the United States. We also examine if the effect of CITI on stock liquidity varies depending on the information‐asymmetry and corporate governance mechanisms.

Research Findings/Insights

We find that firms with stronger CITI are associated with greater stock liquidity. Exploiting the enforceability of executive noncompetition agreements across the states in the United States as a quasi‐natural experiment, we find that firms headquartered in states that introduce these agreements on average experience lower stock liquidity, suggesting a causal relation. We also find that the effect of CITI on stock liquidity is stronger among firms with severe information‐asymmetry problems, but weaker among firms with strong governance mechanisms.

Theoretical/Academic Implications

We extend research that examines the impacts of CEO industry tournament incentives on corporate outcomes and strategies. Our paper shows that CEO industry tournament incentives matter for stock liquidity. Our paper contributes to a large literature on the roles of CEO styles and behaviors in shaping corporate policies.

Practitioner/Policy Implications

Our findings have several practical implications for investors, policymakers, and financial analysts. For example, our findings can help investors better understand how CEOs' compensation‐based incentives impact stock liquidity. Similarly, policymakers can use our findings to design policies that encourage CEOs to act in the best interest of their shareholders and promote market efficiency.
Proof of concept: Portable ultra‐low‐field magnetic resonance imaging for the diagnosis of epileptogenic brain pathologies
Authors: Bauer Tobias , Olbrich Simon , Groteklaes Anne , Lehnen Nils Christian , Zidan Mousa , Lange Annalena , Bisten Justus , Walger Lennart , Faber Jennifer , Bruchhausen Walter , Vollmuth Philipp , Herrlinger Ulrich , Radbruch Alexander , Surges Rainer , Sabir Hemmen , Rüber Theodor
Published: October 2024

Objective

High‐field magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a standard in the diagnosis of epilepsy. However, high costs and technical barriers have limited adoption in low‐ and middle‐income countries. Even in high‐income nations, many individuals with epilepsy face delays in undergoing MRI. Recent advancements in ultra‐low‐field (ULF) MRI technology, particularly the development of portable scanners, offer a promising solution to the limited accessibility of MRI. In this study, we present and evaluate the imaging capability of ULF MRI in detecting structural abnormalities typically associated with epilepsy and compare it to high‐field MRI at 3 T.

Methods

Data collection was conducted within 3 consecutive weeks at the University Hospital Bonn. Inclusion criteria were a minimum age of 18 years, diagnosed epilepsy, and clinical high‐field MRI with abnormalities. We used a .064 T Swoop portable MR Imaging System. Both high‐field MRI and ULF MRI scans were evaluated independently by two experienced neuroradiologists as part of their clinical routine, comparing pathology detection and diagnosis completeness.

Results

Twenty‐three individuals with epilepsy were recruited. One subject presented with a dual pathology. Across the entire cohort, in 17 of 24 (71%) pathologies, an anomaly colocalizing with the actual lesion was observed on ULF MRI. For 11 of 24 (46%) pathologies, the full diagnosis could be made based on ULF MRI. Tumors and posttraumatic lesions could be diagnosed best on ULF MRI, whereas cortical dysplasia and other focal pathologies were the least well diagnosed.

Significance

This single‐center series of individuals with epilepsy demonstrates the feasibility and utility of ULF MRI for the field of epileptology. Its integration into epilepsy care offers transformative potential, particularly in resource‐limited settings. Further research is needed to position ULF MRI within imaging modalities in the diagnosis of epilepsy.
Rolling Contact Fatigue Behaviors of 20CrNi2Mo Steel by a New Carbon and Nitrogen Composite Infiltration Process
Authors: Chen Jian , Liang Yilong , Li Shaolong , Yang Ming , Sun Yuguan
Published: October 2024

In this paper, a new type of composite infiltration process was adopted for 20CrNi2Mo steel. Rolling contact fatigue (RCF) tests were carried out on the specimens treated with carburizing (C) and composite infiltration with carburizing and nitriding (C‐N). The results showed that after C and C‐N treatments were performed, the surface microhardness was increased by 78% and 114%, respectively, and the maximum CRS were −220 and −530 MPa. Moreover, the residual austenite volume fraction was controlled to approximately 10% for each treated sample. The fatigue limit of the C‐N sample was 11.3% higher than that of the C sample. The fatigue failure mechanisms are caused by the maximum shear stress distribution and surface roughness. The surface layer of the C‐N sample with higher hardness and more compressive residual stress inhibited the initiation of fatigue cracks, and the appropriate residual austenite in the carbon‐nitrogen infiltrated layer inhibited the propagation of fatigue cracks.
Spatial Distribution and Growth Variability of Juveniles of Two Myctophid Species (Myctophum asperum and Symbolophorus evermanni) in Relation to Environmental Factors in the Kuroshio Current System in Winter
Authors: Higashiguchi Kazunari , Watai Mikio , Kinoshita Junji , Sassa Chiyuki , Kuroda Hiroshi , Okunishi Takeshi , Yasuda Tohya , Takasuka Akinori
Published: October 2024

The distribution and growth rate of juveniles of two myctophid species (Myctophum asperum and Symbolophorus evermanni) were examined in relation to environmental factors, based on samples collected in the Kuroshio Current system during winter from 2020 to 2022. The growth rate of juveniles was compared among three oceanic regions: the inshore side of the Kuroshio axis, the Kuroshio axis, and the offshore side of the Kuroshio axis in relation to sea surface temperature (SST), sea surface salinity (SSS), chlorophyll‐a concentration (CHL), and biomass of zooplankton (ZPB). M. asperum juveniles were distributed mainly in the inshore region and the Kuroshio axis of higher CHL and ZPB, whereas S. evermanni juveniles were distributed mainly in the Kuroshio axis and in the offshore regions of higher SST and SSS. No significant difference in growth rate was found among the three regions for M. asperum juveniles, whereas the growth rate of S. evermanni juveniles in the Kuroshio axis was higher than in the offshore regions. No environmental factors were selected for growth rate of M. asperum in the GLMM, whereas SST was selected for S. evermanni. M. asperum juveniles can be considered to have a higher tolerance for variability in environmental factors, whereas water temperature could be the driver for the distribution and growth rate of S. evermanni. Lastly, we discuss possible interspecific interactions among noncommercial fish (myctophids) and commercial fish (Pacific saury Cololabis saira).
Factors involved in gastroesophageal varix‐related events in patients with hepatitis C virus‐related compensated and decompensated cirrhosis after direct‐acting antiviral therapy
Authors: Tahata Yuki , Hikita Hayato , Mochida Satoshi , Enomoto Nobuyuki , Kawada Norifumi , Ido Akio , Miki Daiki , Kurosaki Masayuki , Yoshiji Hitoshi , Sakamori Ryotaro , Kuroda Hidekatsu , Yatsuhashi Hiroshi , Yamashita Taro , Hiasa Yoichi , Kato Naoya , Miyaaki Hisamitsu , Ueno Yoshiyuki , Itoh Yoshito , Matsuura Kentaro , Takami Taro , Asahina Yasuhiro , Suda Goki , Akuta Norio , Tateishi Ryosuke , Nakamoto Yasunari , Kakazu Eiji , Terai Shuji , Shimizu Masahito , Miyazaki Masanori , Nozaki Yasutoshi , Sobue Satoshi , Yano Hiroki , Miyaki Tomokatsu , Moriuchi Akihiro , Hori Takeshi , Shirai Kumiko , Murai Kazuhiro , Saito Yoshinobu , Kodama Takahiro , Tatsumi Tomohide , Yamada Tomomi , Takehara Tetsuo
Published: October 2024

Aim

The incidence of and factors involved in gastroesophageal varix‐related events in hepatitis C virus‐related cirrhosis patients, including decompensated cirrhosis, after direct‐acting antiviral therapy are unclear.

Methods

We conducted a multicenter study using prospective data from 478 hepatitis C virus‐related cirrhosis patients treated with direct‐acting antiviral therapy from February 2019 to December 2021 at 33 Japanese hospitals. Gastroesophageal varices were classified as F1 (small‐caliber), F2 (moderately enlarged), or F3 (markedly enlarged) according to the Japanese criteria. Patients without varix or with F1 without red color signs were defined as low‐risk varix, and patients with ≥F2 or red color signs or a history of rupture were defined as high‐risk varix. Varix‐related events were defined as prophylactic treatment or rupture of gastroesophageal varix.

Results

The median age was 70 years, 43% of patients had decompensated cirrhosis, and 16% had high‐risk varices (13% in compensated and 33% in decompensated, p < 0.001). Sustained virologic response rates were 94.9% for compensated cirrhosis and 91.3% for decompensated cirrhosis (p = 0.120). Across 35.7 months, 25 patients received prophylactic treatment, and four experienced varix rupture. The 3‐year incidence rate of varix‐related events was 6.2% (3.5% in compensated and 9.9% in decompensated, p = 0.001). In the multivariate analysis, high‐risk varix (p < 0.001), high baseline gamma‐glutamyl transpeptidase levels (p < 0.001), and virologic failure (p = 0.004) were significantly involved in varix‐related events.

Conclusions

The cumulative incidence rate of varix‐related events was significantly higher in decompensated cirrhosis than in compensated cirrhosis. Baseline varix status, baseline gamma‐glutamyl transpeptidase levels, and virologic response were related to varix‐related events after direct‐acting antiviral therapy.
Spatial consistency affects foraging effort in a benthic diving seabird, the Black‐faced Cormorant
Authors: Cansse Thomas , Lens Luc , Sutton Grace J. , Botha Jonathan A. , Arnould John P.Y.
Published: October 2024

For animals which exploit predictable food resources, greater foraging site fidelity has been hypothesized to lead to increased foraging efficiency. However, evidence for this in free‐ranging species is limited. In the present study, foraging site fidelity, the factors influencing it and its effect on foraging effort were investigated in the Black‐faced Cormorant Phalacrocorax fuscescens, a predominantly benthic forager occurring in southeastern Australia. While the study population was found to have a relatively large foraging range, individuals were highly consistent in the smaller foraging areas which they used. Foraging effort was lower in individuals with a higher foraging site fidelity, which is likely to indicate increased foraging efficiency. Foraging site fidelity differed greatly between individuals but none of the assessed factors (sex, mass, size or year of study) were found to have a significant influence. This might indicate that intrinsic factors which could not be assessed, such as personality or experience, may influence the degree to which individuals exploit known habitats. The findings suggest that changes in prey availability or distribution could result in reduced foraging efficiency and, consequently, negative impacts for the species. Further investigation is required to assess within‐individual foraging plasticity to predict potential responses to changing prey availability and distribution.
Different migration patterns of Wahlberg's eagles Hieraaetus wahlbergi across Africa
Authors: Buij Ralph , McCabe Jennifer D. , Botha Andre , Kapila Shiv R. , Parmuntoro Lemein , Thomsett Simon , Tate Gareth
Published: October 2024

Intra‐Africa movements of most African migratory birds remain an enigma. We describe the migrations of Wahlberg's eagle Hieraaetus wahlbergi using GPS‐GSM transmitters on adult eagles in their South African (n = 3) and Kenyan (n = 7) breeding areas between 2018 and 2022. The dataset included 57 migratory tracks, 29 post‐breeding and 28 pre‐breeding. We found long‐distance migrants (LDMs; from South Africa) and short‐distance migrants (SDMs; from Kenya) using common non‐breeding areas centered in the Sudans and Central African Republic. The timing of annual phases was similar, but LDMs departed on their pre‐breeding migration on average later than SDMs (13 August versus 31 July) and arrived later on their breeding grounds (13 September versus 10 August). Conversely, the average departure date on the post‐breeding migration was 4 April for SDM and 23 March for LDMs. LDMs spent significantly less time of the year than SDMs on breeding grounds (44 versus 57%), and slightly but not significantly more time (40 versus 38%) on non‐breeding areas. The post‐breeding migration distance was on average 3413.9 ± 170.9 km for LDMs and 491.9 ± 158.5 km for SDMs. At non‐breeding areas, LDMs reached more northerly latitudes than SDMs, increasing the pre‐breeding migration distance to 4495.9 ± 372.5 km for LDMs versus 1701.9 ± 167.3 for SDMs. Daily flight distances back to the breeding areas averaged 153.4 ± 130.3 km for LDMs and 167.4 ± 122.3 km for SDMs and to non‐breeding areas were shorter for SDMs (124.8 ± 113.0 km) than LDMs (178.0 ± 134.4 km). Migration speed was similar across populations and for pre‐ and post‐breeding migrations. LDMs used more stopover days than SDMs. We conclude that Wahlberg's eagles from different parts of Africa have adapted their migration to differences in timing of the breeding season, distance of travel, and resources in the landscapes encountered during migration.
Causal Associations Between the Gut Microbiota and Hypertension‐Related Traits Through Mendelian Randomization: A Cross‐Sectional Cohort Study
Authors: Tian Yunfan , Gu Mingxia , Chen Dazhong , Dong Quanbin , Wang Yifeng , Sun Wei , Kong Xiangqing
Published: October 2024

Previous studies have suggested a link between the gut microbiome and hypertension‐related traits like blood pressure. However, these reports are often limited by weak causal evidence. This study investigates the potential causal association between gut microbiota and hypertension‐related traits using Mendelian randomization with summary data from genome‐wide association studies. The inverse‐variance weighted method revealed that the Clostridium innocuum group (Odds ratio [OR]: 1.0047, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.0004–1.0090, p = 0.0336), Eubacterium fissicatena group (OR: 1.0047, 95% CI: 1.0005–1.0088, p = 0.0266), Lachnospiraceae FCS020 group (OR: 1.0063, 95% CI: 1.0004–1.0122, p = 0.0361), and Olsenella (OR: 1.0044, 95% CI: 1.0001–1.0088, p = 0.0430) were associated with an increased risk of hypertension. Conversely, Flavonifractor (OR: 0.9901, 95% CI: 0.9821–0.9982, p = 0.0166), Parabacteroides (OR: 0.9874, 95% CI: 0.9776–0.9972, p = 0.0121), and Senegalimassilia (OR: 0.9907, 95% CI: 0.9842–0.9974, p = 0.0063) were associated with a decreased risk of hypertension. External validation with the Guangdong Gut Microbiome Project confirmed a negative correlation between Parabacteroides and hypertension, potentially through metabolic pathways. These findings provide further evidence supporting the hypothesis that microbes and their metabolites play a role in blood pressure regulation.
Powering the circular future: Climate change and economic perspectives on second‐life batteries in the Belgian context
Authors: Huber Dominik , van den Oever Anne , Philippot Maeva Lavigne , Costa Daniele , Coosemans Thierry , Messagie Maarten
Published: October 2024

This paper calculates the future levelized cost of storage (LCOS) and conducts a prospective life cycle assessment (PLCA) for second‐life batteries (SLB) in Flanders, Belgium. A cradle‐to‐grave approach is chosen for climate change (CC) and economic impacts of SLB. Impacts of processes related to the first and the second life are allocated according to the delivered electricity. Furthermore, impacts are determined according to their temporal occurrence. For LCOS, activities are time adjusted by discounting. For PLCA, new background databases are generated and changed based on the activities occurrence in time. Additionally, future CC impact of three Belgian energy paths is modeled, introducing user‐defined scenarios of PLCA. To conceptualize impacts, three use cases are defined: (a) residential, (b) industrial and (c) utility use case (UTI). The residential and industrial use cases (INDs) represent photovoltaic (PV) installations with battery storage, the UTI is a large‐scale battery participating in the Belgian secondary reserve market. Lowest LCOS of the SLB in 2050 are found in the IND, namely 39.66 €/MWh, and are below the benchmark batteries. CC impact of SLB in the residential is 58.7 /kWh and below the benchmark batteries. The CC impact of SLB is 75.2 and 78.5 /kWh in the industrial and UTI and thus higher than the benchmark batteries. Crucial for both assessments are increased dismantling and repurposing facility throughput, fair charging tariffs, the manufacturing, the charging electricity generated by PV installations, and power electronics. On the contrary, changing the background does not lead to major changes in CC.
Posttraumatic Growth: The Role of Health and Financial Difficulties During a Pandemic
Authors: Rauvola Rachel S. , Rudolph Cort W. , Zacher Hannes
Published: October 2024

Objective

Trauma can have a range of effects on individuals over time, including the potential for positive changes in favorable outcomes commonly referred to as posttraumatic growth. The posttraumatic growth literature has been criticized for various methodological limitations and has largely neglected the exploration of factors that may strengthen or weaken posttraumatic growth trajectories. The present study contributes to this literature by investigating trajectories of five dimensions of posttraumatic growth during the COVID‐19 pandemic and the moderating effects of health and financial difficulties on these trajectories.

Method

Longitudinal data were collected monthly between July 2020 and December 2022 from a sample of employed adults in Germany, involving N = 1678 participants over 30 time points (Nobservations = 29,552).

Results

Results suggest that certain dimensions of posttraumatic growth showed significant increases (i.e., relationships) or decreases (i.e., spirituality and possibilities) over time and that trajectories of three dimensions (i.e., relationships, appreciation, and strength) demonstrated distinctive patterns of interaction with health and financial difficulties.

Conclusions

Findings are discussed in the context of the pandemic as well as dynamic theories of personality and identity, with implications for advancing posttraumatic growth theory and research.
Effectiveness of spiritual care interventions among patients in the intensive care unit: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Li Lingling , Chen Meng , Yu Ningning , Zhang Qixia
Published: October 2024

Background

Spiritual care interventions can be an important source of emotional support for patients in the intensive care unit (ICU). However, there is wide variation in the literature and no quantitative assessment to synthesize the results of these studies.

Aim

To examine the effectiveness of spiritual care interventions on disease‐related physiological parameter and treatment outcomes and psychosocial well‐being outcomes among patients in the ICU.

Study Design

A comprehensive search was conducted across 11 databases from inception to 27 May 2024. Studies involving the implementation of spiritual care interventions for patients in the ICU were included. Cochrane's bias risk tool and JBI Critical Appraisal Checklist were used to examine the methodological quality of included studies. Review Manager 5.3 was used to conduct meta‐analyses.

Results

A total of 18 studies were included. Meta‐analysis showed that spiritual care interventions could significantly reduce mean arterial pressure (MAP) (MD: −12.12, 95% CI: [−23.68, −0.56], p = .04), length of stay in the ICU (MD: −5.49, 95% CI: [−8.99, −2.00], p = .002), and improved consciousness (MD: 3.91, 95% CI: [1.42, 6.39], p = .002), anxiety (SMD: −1.78, 95% CI: [−3.06, −0.50], p = .006), spiritual well‐being (SMD: 1.57, 95% CI: [0.05, 3.08], p = .04) and comfort (MD: 15.53, 95% CI: [10.81, 20.25], p < .01) among patients in the ICU, but had no significant effects on heart rate (HR), respiratory rate (RR), pulse rate (PR), blood pressure (BP), oxygen saturation (SpO2), duration of ventilator use and pain.

Conclusions

Spiritual care interventions could reduce MAP and length of stay in the ICU; improve consciousness, anxiety, spiritual well‐being and comfort among patients in the ICU; and are still inconclusive for HR, RR, PR, BP, SpO2, duration of ventilator use and pain. Urgent efforts are needed to better integrate spiritual care interventions into clinical care to enhance patient well‐being.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

Spiritual care interventions could improve well‐being of patients in the ICU.
Navigating electricity network congestion: An examination of a principle‐based regulatory theory and strategy
Authors: van Schendel Sascha , Reins Leonie
Published: October 2024

The digitisation of the energy sector is moving fast. At the same time, the transition to renewable energy brings challenges. However, legislative developments either move slowly or are introduced in a piecemeal manner. This situation is sometimes perceived as a regulatory mismatch and is problematic from the perspective of achieving climate and sustainability goals. The limited capacity of energy grids to transport electricity is a prime example of why we need a regulatory system that takes into account the fast‐paced development of technology while providing a consistent pathway for the future. In this contribution, we build on the scholarship that identifies energy principles. We analyse the extent to which principles play a role in new energy regulation and in Dutch mitigatory policies. As a theoretical framework for explaining the crucial role of principles in regulation, we use Fleming's normative proposal of the trias of energy regulation.
A Qualitative Analysis to Determine the Critical Features of a Frontside Bottom Turn in Professional Surfing
Authors: Whitting John W. , Brinsmead Ruben , Forsyth James R. , Hollier Jennifer , Crowley‐McHattan Zachary J.
Published: October 2024

Surfing bottom turns underpin the quality of subsequent maneuvers, and surfing performance overall. Despite this, no study has investigated coaching cues to determine their association with performance. This study investigated the frontside bottom turn, to identify critical features associated with quality performance, and second to determine whether any of these features could predict whether a surfer would subsequently perform either a cutback or a top turn maneuver. Videos of every frontside bottom turn from all finals heats of the 2017 World Surf League, Corona Open Jeffrey's Bay event were analyzed. A total of 199 frontside bottom turns were identified and categorized as either a bottom turn leading to a cutback maneuver (n = 106), or a bottom turn leading to a top turn maneuver (n = 93). A checklist of 47 potential critical features was developed after consultation with coaching and competition judging experts, thereby enabling a systematic analysis of each turn to determine the expected and actual frequency of occurrence for each potential feature. Consequently, an extensive list of critical features of the frontside bottom turn was identified and associated with a high level of performance, being executed successfully by professional athletes during high‐stakes competition. Several features, particularly during the exit phase of the bottom turn, also helped predict whether these athletes subsequently performed either a cutback or a top turn maneuver. The findings of this study provide surf coaches with cues that can be used as a guide to effectively coach two main frontside bottom turn variations.
The grim view of online dating—Rethinking Tinder
Authors: Räsänen Joona
Published: October 2024

This paper recounts a dystopian tragedy, analogous to online dating, where people choose their partners from an enormous number of people, where rejections are made in the blink of an eye based on physical appearance and where men outnumber women. The moral of the story is discussed. It is argued that Tinder and other dating apps are a problem for justice and that this should be a public and political concern. It is suggested that we take measures to correct the inequalities in online dating.
Shortcomings, limitations and gaps in physiological roles of extracellular vesicles in obesity
Authors: Valero Paola , Silva Katherin , Valenzuela‐Hinrichsen Andrés , Vásquez Antonia , Espinoza Fernanda , Lira Fernanda , Cornejo Marcelo , Fuentes Gonzalo , González Daniel , Moore‐Carrasco Rodrigo , van der Beek Eline M. , Hillebrands Jan‐Luuk , van Goor Harry , Grismaldo Adriana , Sobrevia Luis
Published: October 2024

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) play a crucial role in mediating communication between cells across species and kingdoms. The intercellular communication facilitated by EVs through autocrine and paracrine signalling mechanisms is essential for cell survival, maintaining normal metabolic functions and ensuring overall bodily homeostasis and health. Extracellular vesicles are present in various bodily fluids, such as pleural effusions, plasma, breast milk, amniotic fluid, semen and saliva. Additionally, the generation and release of EVs contribute to the removal of cellular waste. Patients with obesity exhibit a higher release and amount of circulating EVs than individuals with normal weight. This increased EV release in obesity might contribute to the inflammatory state characteristic of this metabolic condition, because higher levels of pro‐inflammatory molecules are found within their cargo. However, interpreting results related to EV abundance, cargo and biological actions can be complicated by several factors; these include variations in cell sources, a wide age range (from children to the elderly), a mix of females and males, medication use and health status, a range of body weights (from normal weight to morbid obesity) and differences between in vitro assays using cell lines versus primary cultures. This article addresses the shortcomings, limitations and gaps in knowledge, providing a framework for enhancing our understanding of the physiological effects of EVs on obesity.

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A Probabilistic Evaluation Method on Temperature and Time-Dependent Stress Intensity Limit St in Creep Assessment of Components at Elevated Temperatures
Authors: Hou Xin-Yang , Fu Jin-Hui , Gong Jian-Guo , Zhao Peng , Xuan Fu-Zhen
Published: October 2024

Creep is an important damage mode of components at elevated temperatures, and the temperature and time-dependent stress intensity limit St is an essential indicator in creep assessment of components. In general, the safety factors are directly applied to three criteria in stress intensity limit St in ASME code, but a quantitative evaluation on the failure probability covered in this indicator is rarely reported. Based on this, a probabilistic evaluation method on stress intensity limit St is proposed by correlating each criterion with mean creep rupture life data. The failure probability of three criteria in stress intensity limit St of 316 and 304 stainless steels is calculated, and the effect of safety factors on failure probability results is discussed. A probabilistic evaluation on stress intensity limit St is conducted. Results indicate that the stress intensity limit St presents a low failure probability or high conservativeness, and the minimum stress to creep rupture is the governing role in stress intensity limit St for cases involved. The failure probability of stress intensity limit St of 316 stainless steel is much lower than that of 304 stainless steel, attributed to the differences of creep deformation features and data scatter of the two stainless steels.
On Hysteresis in a Variable Pitch Fan Transitioning to Reverse Thrust Mode and Back
Authors: Vitlaris Dimitrios , Rajendran David J. , Tunstall Richard , Whurr John , Pachidis Vassilios
Published: October 2024

A novel hysteresis phenomenon during the transition to and back from the reverse thrust mode in a variable pitch fan (VPF) is identified and characterized in this work. This is done using a three-dimensional fully transient unsteady Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes (URANS) with the transitioning fan blade airfoils simulated by an adaptation of the mesh displacement method. A “real-time” simulation of the complete VPF hysteresis loop is achieved by specifying a blade wall motion through an Eulerian rotation matrix in differential, gradual steps, and is combined with a mesh probe-and-update routine for improved numerical accuracy and stability. The VPF is modeled to be transitioning in a modern 40000 lbf geared high bypass ratio turbofan engine architecture at “Approach Idle” engine power setting in a typical twin-engine airframe with the flaps, slats, and spoilers set for an aircraft touchdown airspeed of 140 knots. The transition to reverse thrust mode involves flow starvation into the engine, formation of recirculation zones in the bypass duct and the establishment of the reverse stream, all of which occurs in the opposing presence of the freestream flow at aircraft touchdown velocity. The transition back to forward flow mode involves the gradual reestablishment of the freestream, which is opposed by the presence of the reverse stream within the engine. It is quantified that in the transition to reverse thrust, the blockage develops with a larger time delay than the disappearance of the blockage during the transition back due to the interplay of the temporal dynamics of fan blade motion and flow field response. The details of the changes in the flow field behavior, the effect of engine power setting and aircraft touch-down velocity on the hysteresis behavior are explained in detail in the paper. Additional manifestations of the hysteresis phenomena at reverse thrust involving engine spool-up and down, and aircraft acceleration-deceleration maneuvers are also explored. The hysteresis phenomena described in this work are critical in properly developing control schedules to adapt for potential bistable flow field development during the landing run. The study addresses another part of the puzzle in exploring the feasibility of reverse thrust capable VPF engines for future sustainable aircraft to reach aviation climate neutrality.