bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reproductive Characteristics of Buffaloes: A Review
Authors: Pirondi Agatha Nara , Teixeira Cynthia Maria Carpigiani , Lima Erico da Silva , Valente Tiago Neves Pereira , Deminicis Bruno Borges , Bezerra Fernanda de Campos , Nery Víctor Libardo Hurtado
Published: July 2019

Interest in buffalo breeding has increased, due to certain advantages in relation to cattle breeding. The objective of this article was to review the reproductive biological characteristics of buffaloes. Buffaloes have their peculiarities regarding the reproductive characteristics, the females are seasonal polyestrous breeders of short days, the puberty’s buffalo is reached in ages more than in the bovine, the detection of the estrus is more difficult because of the estrus it happens at dawn and the females of buffalo have few physiological changes producers have difficulty detecting estrus. The gestation period varies between 300 and 320 days. Males have smaller external reproductive organs and less intense sexual behavior in relation to cattle. Buffalo females exhibit reproductive differences such as the hyperpigmented vulva and smaller and lighter, more rigid and tortuously inner structures with more muscle tone. There are some advantages in the creation of buffaloes were evidenced, such as their rusticity and adaptation to areas that would be unsuitableto cattle production, besides counting on products such as milk and meat of good quality. Several protocols of oestrus and ovulation synchronization have been adopted, to improve reproductive efficiency. These protocols have resulted in a pregnancy rates increase of 30% to 50%. It is concluded that buffalo breeding has space within the animal production system, especially in areas that would be suitable for the breeding of other ruminant species.
Supply Chain Management of Biomass for Energy Generation: A Critical Analysis of Main Trends
Authors: Martins Luís Oscar Silva , Carneiro Roberto Antônio Fortuna , Torres Ednildo Andrade , Silva Marcelo Santana , Iacovidou Eleni , Fernades Fábio Matos , Freires Gaudêncio Mendonça
Published: July 2019

The increasing need of decarbonising energy intensive processes has risen the demand for biomass. Biomass production, distribution and use for energy generation involve several supply chain systems of which understanding requires a comprehensive analysis of the biomass supply chain management. The present article maps the volume and diversity of research carried out in the production and management of biomass supply chains for energy generation. It critically evaluates how well studies have captured multidimensional issues pertaining the supply chain management of biomass used for energy production and identifies future research trends in this field. The VOSviewer (Center for Science and Technology Studies, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands) and SciMat (University of Granada, Spain) tools are employed for the construction of scientific maps that demonstrate the evolution of research in the biomass supply chain management area for energy production. The results revealed that research on the biomass supply chain for power generation is booming, especially in the United States, England and Italy. However, in developing nations such as Brazil, India and China, studies are still at an infant stage. There is a rising concern about the emerging new trends related to biomass supply chain management for energy generation, especially if clean energy aims to be a prominent place in the global energy matrix.
Effects of Consumer Preferences on Environmentally Friendly Tomatoes in Myanmar
Authors: Aye Myo Sabai , Takahashi Yoshifumi , Yabe Mitsuyasu
Published: July 2019

Environmentally and economically sustainable agricultural production systems are crucial to conserve natural resources and the environment as well as to protect human health. In recent years, Myanmar, one of the agricultural-resource-rich developing countries, is confronting land degradation, environmental pollution, and food safety issues due to intensive agricultural methods that use high dosages of agro-chemical inputs. Myanmar environmental farming systems and the market for environmentally certified products are still under developed. Determining consumers’ preferences and willingness to pay for environmentally certified products are vitally important to develop safe food markets. In this study, the choice experiment method was applied to examine consumer preference and the potential demand for environmentally friendly tomatoes. Using a sructured questionnaire in face to face interviews, the study collected information from 332 consumers in 8 supermarkets, and 4 open markets in Yangon city. Our results informed that most of the respondents in both markets have a positive WTP for an increase in each attribute. The supermarket respondents paid attentions to food safety labels, and it had the highest MWTP 2067.170 MMK (1.53 USD) relative to the other attributes. Our results suggest that policymakers and producers must enhance consumers’ knowledge of what is an eco-product and how to differentiate it in the market place and emphasize the improvement of food safety certification programs.
The Effect of Dividend Policy on the Market Value of the Jordanian Commercial and Islamic Banks Listed on the Amman Stock Exchange
Authors: Roman Naseem Abu
Published: July 2019

This study aims at examining the effect of Dividend Policy on the market value of Jordanian commercial and Islamic banks. The study population consists of all Jordanian banks listed on the Amman Stock Exchange during the period from 2008 – 2018. Data were collected from the annual reports of the sample banks. After the data collection, they were analyzed using descriptive analysis, correlation analysis, and multiple regression analysis.

The results showed a statistically significant impact of dividend policy, this result indicates that there is an impact of the dividend policy on the market value of Jordanian commercial and Islamic banks listed on the ASE during the period 2008-2018. The results also showed a difference between the companies in terms of dividend policy followed, in addition, asymmetry in the Dividend Policy in banks during the study period. The study recommended a number of recommendations, including that manager of firms, should develop effective dividend payout policies to ensure that their firms pay out dividends to enhance the value of their companies and plan an efficient and reliable dividend policy, to suit the wishes of investors, and to engage stakeholders in a dialogue on dividend policy.
Fusietoetsing in de zorg: een terug- en vooruitblik
Authors: Varkevisser Marco , Schut Erik
Published: July 2019

Fusietoetsing in de zorg: een terug- en vooruitblik

Het fusietoezicht in de zorg staat al jaren ter discussie. Dit artikel gaat in op (1) de invoering van en ervaringen met de zorgspecifieke fusietoets en (2) de ontwikkelingen in het mededingingstoezicht op zorgfusies. Bij de zorgspecifieke fusietoets valt te betwijfelen of de voordelen opwegen tegen de nadelen. Dit pleit voor een herbezinning op nut en noodzaak van deze toets. Het mededingingstoezicht op zorgfusies is lange tijd te toegeeflijk geweest. Er lijkt sprake van een kentering, maar deze komt te laat om in sommige zorgsectoren en regio’s dominante machtposities te voorkomen. Vandaar dat sterker optreden tegen machtsposities geboden is.
De digitale werkwijze: bestuursrechtelijk toezicht aan de hand van digitale gegevens
Authors: Batting Marije
Published: July 2019

De digitale werkwijze: bestuursrechtelijk toezicht aan de hand van digitale gegevens

In het arrest van 12 februari 2019 oordeelt het Gerechtshof Den Haag dat de digitale werkwijze van de ACM voldoende waarborgen voor effectieve rechtsbescherming biedt bij bestuursrechtelijk toezicht aan de hand van digitale gegevens.
Onder vuur? Convenanten in het belang van de veiligheid bij publieke samenkomsten en andere publieke plaatsen
Authors: van Rooij Mandy
Published: July 2019

Onder vuur? Convenanten in het belang van de veiligheid bij publieke samenkomsten en andere publieke plaatsen

Bij publieke evenementen en gebouwen is sprake van een gedeelde verantwoordelijkheid voor orde en veiligheid tussen de private organisator en de burgemeester. Convenanten waarin partijen gezamenlijk afspraken maken over veiligheid kunnen een nuttige aanvulling op de vergunningverlening zijn. In het geval van het incident met de Vreugdevuren in Scheveningen heeft de gemeente afspraken met de bouwers in een convenant neergelegd, in plaats van een vergunning. Uit het onderzoek van de OVV zal moeten blijken welke rol het convenant heeft gespeeld bij de ontstane onveilige situaties en wat die conclusies betekenen voor het gebruik van convenanten in het brede veiligheidsdomein.
De rol van strenge handhaving in het toezicht
Authors: Benink Harald
Published: July 2019

De rol van strenge handhaving in het toezicht

In 2018 was er opnieuw sprake van turbulentie in de bancaire sector, met als dieptepunt de schikking die ING met het Openbaar Ministerie trof. ING had jarenlang onvoldoende actief geprobeerd te voorkomen dat rekeningen bij de bank werden gebruikt voor witwassen. Hoogleraar Harald Benink kijkt terug op de gebeurtenissen en concludeert in lijn met de in 2010 opgestelde ambities van De Nederlandsche Bank als toezichthouder: de rol van strenge handhaving in het toezicht wordt vaak onderschat.
Immaterial Mechanism in the Mature Leibniz
Authors: Noble Christopher P. ,   Philosophy Documentation Center
Published: July 2019

Leibniz standardly associates “mechanism” with extended material bodies and their aggregates. In this paper, I identify and analyze a further distinct sense of “mechanism” in Leibniz that extends, by analogy, beyond the domain of material bodies and applies to the operations of immaterial substances such as the monads that serve, for Leibniz, as the metaphysical foundations of physical reality. I argue that in this sense, Leibniz understands “mechanism” as an intelligible process that is capable of providing a sufficient reason for a series of changes. I then apply these findings to enrich our understanding of Leibniz’s well-known mill argument in Monadology ¶17: although material machines and mechanisms cannot produce perceptions, the perceptual activity of immaterial monads is to be understood as “mechanical” according to this analogical sense.
Numerical and Experimental Analysis of a Singing Propeller Having Blunt Trailing Edges
Authors: Kim Taehyung , Hur Jaewook , Lee Hyoungsuk
Published: July 2019

This study considers a blunt trailing-edged propeller operating both in a uniform and a nominal wake fields. Experiments are performed in the cavitation tunnel of Hyundai Maritime Research Institute. The effects of propeller rotation speed, tunnel flow speed, and blade sheet cavitation growth on the generation mechanism of the singing propeller are investigated. The cavitation, sound, and vibration characteristics related to the singing phenomena are measured by a hydrophone, a microphone, an accelerometer, and a highspeed digital camera. The natural frequencies of propeller blades are predicted using a finite element method and verified by both contact- and noncontact-type impact hammer tests in air and underwater conditions. The inflow speed and angle of attack for each section of the propeller blades are calculated using the Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes equation-based flow analysis. Using a detached eddy simulation, the vortex shedding patterns and their frequencies are calculated. The predicted vortex shedding frequencies are compared with the measured singing frequency and blade natural frequency for determination of consistency. Under cavitation-free regime, the vortex shedding frequencies are predicted for normalized blade radial positions of .8R and .9R. The computed values are close to the two blade natural frequencies and also consistent with the double singing phenomena in the cavitation tunnel test. For fully developed blade sheet cavitation condition, the vortex formation in the wake region is observed to be strongly influenced by the cavitation growth on the pressure side surface. Propeller singing is diminished with the continuous growth of cavitation and is finally locked-off. The significant variation of the flow-induced sound and vibration levels are also observed for the locked-in and the locked-off conditions. The singing occurrence location and frequency under uniform inflow condition are analyzed to investigate the generation mechanism of propeller singing. This study can be applied to the analysis of singing location and its frequency of a propeller operating in the hull wake, which changes the angle of attack according to the propeller rotation angle.
Nanoscale organization of rotavirus replication machineries
Authors: Garcés Suárez Yasel , Martínez Jose L , Torres Hernández David , Hernández Haydee Olinca , Pérez-Delgado Arianna , Méndez Mayra , Wood Christopher D , Rendon-Mancha Juan Manuel , Silva-Ayala Daniela , López Susana , Guerrero Adán , Arias Carlos F
Published: July 2019

Rotavirus genome replication and assembly take place in cytoplasmic electron dense inclusions termed viroplasms (VPs). Previous conventional optical microscopy studies observing the intracellular distribution of rotavirus proteins and their organization in VPs have lacked molecular-scale spatial resolution, due to inherent spatial resolution constraints. In this work we employed super-resolution microscopy to reveal the nanometric-scale organization of VPs formed during rotavirus infection, and quantitatively describe the structural organization of seven viral proteins within and around the VPs. The observed viral components are spatially organized as five concentric layers, in which NSP5 localizes at the center of the VPs, surrounded by a layer of NSP2 and NSP4 proteins, followed by an intermediate zone comprised of the VP1, VP2, VP6. In the outermost zone, we observed a ring of VP4 and finally a layer of VP7. These findings show that rotavirus VPs are highly organized organelles.
Sheep and Goat Value Chain Analysis in Tahtay Adyabo District, Tigray, Ethiopia
Authors: Desta Zemeda , Zemedu Lemma , Tegegne Bosena
Published: July 2019

This study was aimed at evaluating the value chain of the small ruminant in Tahtay Adyabo District of Tigray Region. The data were collected from 138 sample households, 26 traders, 5 butchers, 7 hotels/restaurants and 11 consumers interviewed through a semi-structured questionnaire and from key informant interview. The value chain analysis revealed that the major actors in the district being input suppliers, small ruminant producers, farmers, collectors, small traders, large traders, hotels/restaurants, butchers and consumers. Office of Agriculture and Rural Development, Dedebit Credit and Saving Institution, NGO (Save the Children) and Shire-Maitsebri Agricultural Research Center are main supporting institutions. Nine main alternative channels were identified for goat and sheep marketing. Small ruminant market participant of sample respondents were supplied 137.28 TLU of goats and 107.25 TLU of sheep to the market. In the study area, the governance of the sheep and goat value chain is buyer driven, and there are no producers and buyers cooperatives. Therefore effort should be made to establish farmers’ cooperative and collective action of farmers to lower transaction costs to access inputs.
Enhanced d‐p Orbital Hybridization for Lithium Polysulfide Capturing and Lithium Deposition Inducing of AgVO3 Skeleton Enabling High‐Performance Li‐Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Sun Chenyi , Gao Li , Rong Wanling , Kang Rongkai , Li Jiachang , Tian Xuelei , Bai Yanwen , Bian Xiufang
Published: December 2024

The dendrite growth and volume expansion of the Li metal anode, as well as the LiPSs “shuttle effect” and slow conversion kinetics of the S cathode, have severely hampered the large‐scale development of LSBs. Herein, a simple hydrothermal method is employed to synthesize rod‐like AgVO3, which is then used as the Li metal anode current collector and the separator modification, respectively. As the Li metal anode current collector, AgVO3 has a strong Li affinity, which can lower Li nucleation overpotential and guide uniform deposition of Li metal. The AgVO3‐modified separator can accelerate the redox kinetics of LiPSs and achieve the anchoring of LiPSs. The results of DFT calculation and experiments reveal that the AgVO3 enable the Ag horizontal d orbitals (dxy/dx2‐y2) to hybridize with the S p orbital to form additional σ/σ* and π/π*. The activation of horizontal d orbitals can increase LiPSs anchoring ability, reduce the reaction barrier, and accelerate LiPSs transformation. Hence, the LSBs assembled with the Li@AgVO3 anode and AgVO3 modified separator show excellent cycle performance. This work gives a novel idea for the application of high catalytic performance materials represented by AgVO3, and its unique catalytic performance can successfully achieve LSBs with high performance.
Constructing a Metal–Organic Frameworks‐Based Long‐Acting Sequential Release System for the Treatment of Alzheimer's Disease
Authors: Ding Qi , Zhao Yun , Xi Enpeng , Liu Kangning , Gao Nan , Zhu Guangshan
Published: December 2024

Due to the unclear pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD) and the lack of a completely cured medication, AD patients need to take medication in order and on time every day all one's life, which is difficult for severe memory impairment patients to strictly follow on time. Traditional AD drug carriers, such as sugar coating and capsules, rely on dissolution or fragmentation to achieve drug release, which lacks the interaction between drug molecules and carriers, thus they cannot achieve sufficient long‐acting and sequential drug release. Herein, Mn‐MOF‐74, which ligand structure is similar to two antioxidants dihydroquercetin (DHQ) and resveratrol (Res) is chosen as the carrier. Due to the differences in adsorption energy between DHQ/MOF and Res/MOF, the release speed of DHQ is much faster than Res. Therefore, Mn‐MOF‐74 loaded with DHQ and Res (DR@MOF) showed sequential drug release and a long‐term antioxidant effect for ≈72 h, with an efficacy time six times longer than that of vitamin E. In 5×FAD transgenic mice, DR@MOF exhibited excellent capacity in maintaining oxidative balance in the brain, ameliorating spatial learning and memory deficits, and showed the potential of an AD agent for long‐acting and sequential treatment.
Spray Black Coating for High‐Efficiency Light Absorption
Authors: Xiao Youhua , Wang Yalan , Piao Mingxing , Li Chaolong , Shi Haofei , Wang Xiao
Published: December 2024

Black coatings have emerged as a research focus due to their excellent light absorption performance over a wide wavelength range. They play a crucial role in precision optical devices and solar thermal applications. Among various preparation methods, spray coating has attracted great attention due to its simple preparation process, low cost, scalability, and applicability to complex structures. Herein, the recent progress in spray black coatings is comprehensively presented. Various spray coating methods employed in the preparation of black coatings, including air spraying, ultrasonic spraying, electrostatic spraying, spray pyrolysis, and thermal spraying are summarized and compared. Black spray coatings based on metal sulfide, metal oxide, cermet, polymer, and carbon are then reviewed. In addition to the intrinsic absorption properties of the black coatings, light‐trapping structures are key to achieving high‐efficiency light absorption. Typical structural design strategies for enhancing absorption are highlighted. Moreover, the trade‐off between absorptance and adhesion in the design of robust spray black coatings is indicated. The remaining challenges and outlook for the spray black coatings are discussed. This review is expected to provide valuable guidelines for the future development of spray black coatings.
Continuous Flow Synthesis of Prussian Blue and Analogues Assisted by AI
Authors: Hof Sebastian , Kioumourtzoglou Stylianos , Nováková Jaroslava , Görlin Mikaela , Sá Jacinto
Published: December 2024

Prussian blue and its analogs are promising materials for numerous applications. Interest in this class of materials arises from their broad pore distribution, redox properties, high biocompatibility, low‐cost components, straightforward manufacturability, and adaptability through analog development. A key challenge is the synthesis of well‐defined, small‐dimensioned materials using machine learning approaches. This study presents a strategy to address this limitation via machine learning‐driven microfluidic synthesis. Employing unsupervised Bayesian optimization with Gaussian processes effectively reduces optimization time and minimizes the need for prior knowledge. As a proof of concept, Prussian blue, and cobalt‐based analogs are synthesized, with UV–vis spectroscopy providing feedback for the machine learning algorithm. The optimized protocols are subsequently applied to larger‐scale preparations, demonstrating that the standardized methods have the potential for the commercial production of high‐quality materials. Comprehensive characterization of the materials confirms their cubic morphology, small dimensionality, and mixed‐valency of the metal elements.
Constitutional Mosaic Pericentromeric Trisomy 8 in a Female Patient With Aplastic Anemia
Authors: Gao Min , Chen Yunjia , Lertwilaiwittaya Pongtawat , Hurst Anna C. E. , Al‐Beshri Ali , Carroll Andrew J. , Mikhail Fady M.
Published: December 2024

Aplastic anemia, characterized by pancytopenia and hypoplastic bone marrow, is associated with various acquired cytogenetic abnormalities, including trisomy 8, in 4%–15% of patients. Constitutional mosaic trisomy 8 notably increases the risks for cytopenia and myeloid malignancies. Duplications near chromosome 8 centromere are associated with developmental delays, autism, and trisomy 8p11.21q11.21 correlates with hematologic disorders. We report a 19‐year‐old female with constitutional mosaic pericentromeric trisomy 8 presenting with menorrhagia, vitamin B12 deficiency, familial short stature, pancytopenia, and bone marrow aplasia. G‐banded chromosome and FISH analyses of her bone marrow and blood samples revealed constitutional mosaic pericentromeric trisomy 8. Chromosomal microarray analysis confirmed mosaic duplications in the 8p12q11.21 region spanning 51 OMIM genes, with 16 identified as OMIM morbid genes, and including 9 genes with autosomal dominant inheritance patterns. FGFR1, ASH2L, ANK1, KAT6A, IKBKB, PLAT, and CEBPD are implicated in hematologic disorders, with FGFR1, ASH2L, KAT6A, and IKBKB showing notable triplosensitivity scores. These regions overlap with 13 published cases (12 papers), of which three displayed hematologic disorders, including neutropenia and juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia. Our case underscores the 8p12q11.21 region as a potential causal region for aplastic anemia, emphasizing the need for further investigation of this patient for possible progression to hematologic malignancy.
Characterization of Particle Fluidization in a New Type of Fluidized Bed Flotation Unit
Authors: Zhao Zhenlong , Li Zhiyuan
Published: December 2024

Understanding the hydrodynamics of the bed layer in a fluidized bed is essential for optimizing and improving fluidized bed flotation units. This study proposes a fluidized bed flotation column that incorporates auxiliary particles into the gas–liquid two‐phase system to address the shortcomings of traditional flotation units. Stainless steel particles (glass beads), tap water, and compressed air were used as the solid, liquid, and gas phases, respectively. Key factors affecting the bed hydrodynamics (such as bed fluctuation, minimum fluidization velocity, bed expansion, and porosity) in the fluidized column include gas and liquid flow rates as well as the initial bed height. Experimental results show that selecting appropriate filling particles can effectively enhance the fluidization performance of the bed, while appropriately increasing the gas flow rate can achieve fluidization at lower liquid velocities, thus reducing energy consumption during the flotation mineralization process. Theoretical analysis combined with extensive data reveals that the expansion characteristics of the fluidized bed and the use of high‐density filling particles can effectively mitigate bed layer fluctuations and stabilize the flow field environment. Additionally, based on a wide range of data, this study employs model factor analysis, dimensionless analysis, and multiple linear regression analysis to propose a standard dimensionless parameter model for the fluidized bed flotation column, which can effectively predict bed layer fluctuations and expansion characteristics.
Evaluation of betanin‐loaded liposomal nanocarriers in AlCl3‐induced Alzheimer's disease in rats: Impact on cognitive function, neurodegeneration, and TREM2/ADAM10 pathways
Authors: Salama Rania M. , Yehia Rana , Elmongy Noura F. , Sallam Al Aliaa , Abd‐Elgalil Mona M. , Schaalan Mona F. , Abdel‐Mottaleb Mona M. A. , Bazan Lamyaa S.
Published: December 2024

Betanin (BET) has been studied for its therapeutic benefits in various diseases, but its low bioavailability and uncertain brain penetration limit its efficacy. Accordingly, this study aimed to explore BET‐loaded liposomal nanocarriers (LPN) as a novel treatment for Alzheimer's disease (AD), focusing on the triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells 2 (TREM2)/DNAX‐activating protein of 12 kDa (DAP12) and extracellular signal‐regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) pathways implicated in AD. In an AlCl3‐induced AD rat model, 48 male Wistar rats were divided into four groups: control, AlCl3 (50 mg/kg, intraperitoneal), AlCl3+BET (100 mg/kg, per os), and AlCl3+BET LPN (25 mg/kg, intranasally), with treatments administered for 28 days. Morris water maze test and histopathological examination showed that BET LPN‐treated rats had improved spatial and learning memory and less hippocampal and cortical degeneration compared with the AlCl3 and oral BET groups. Mechanistically, BET LPN treatment corrected AD biomarkers, increased miR‐132 and ADAM10 expression, and reduced oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis. Additionally, BET LPN treatment suppressed the expression of TREM2, DAP12, ERK1/2, and mitogen‐activated protein kinase 1/2 (MEK1/2), showing greater improvement than oral BET. These findings suggest that BET LPN enhances cognitive function and neuroprotection in AD by modulating miR‐132 and ADAM10 and inhibiting ERK1/2 and TREM2/DAP12 pathways, providing a more effective treatment compared with traditional oral BET administration.
Impact of Body Image Perception on Behavioral Outcomes in Chinese Adolescent and Young Adult Survivors of Sarcoma
Authors: Wei Yihui , Ma Chung Tin , Li Michael Can Heng , Zhou Keary Rui , Loong Herbert Ho Fung , Wong Kwok Chuen , Li Chi Kong , Cheung Yin Ting
Published: December 2024

Purpose

To identify the prevalence and predictive factors of body image dissatisfaction among Chinese adolescent and young adult (AYA) survivors of sarcoma and to evaluate its associations with behavioral outcomes.

Methods

In total, 116 AYA survivors (response rate: 88%; 48.3% female; mean age 28.2 years, SD = 8.2 years) of osteosarcoma (49.1%) or soft‐tissue sarcoma (50.9%) were recruited from an academic hospital. The survivors self‐reported their perceived body image using the Body Image Scale. Behavioral outcomes were assessed using DSM‐oriented scales of the ASEBA Adult Self‐Report checklist. Multivariable linear regression was conducted to identify predictors of body image perception and to investigate the association between body image dissatisfaction and behavioral outcomes (adjusted for clinically relevant variables and corrected for false discovery rate). Mediation analyses were performed to examine the mediating effects of body image perception between clinical, treatment, or socioenvironmental risk factors and behavioral outcomes.

Results

At 15 years post‐cancer diagnosis, one‐third of the cohort (39.7%) reported dissatisfaction with their body image. The significant risk factors associated with body image dissatisfaction were being female (standardized coefficient estimate [Est] = 0.21, SE = 0.10; p = 0.047), surgery treatment (Est = 0.19, SE = 0.09; p = 0.046), and worse family functioning (Est = 0.27, SE = 0.10, p = 0.013). Body image dissatisfaction was associated with symptoms of depression (Est = 0.30, SE = 0.10; p = 0.005) and avoidant personality problems (Est = 0.37, SE = 0.11; p < 0.001). Negative body image perception significantly mediated the association between poor family functioning and avoidant personality problems (proportion‐mediated 26.3%, p = 0.038).

Conclusion

Body image dissatisfaction was associated with more significant internalizing symptoms of depression, anxiety, and avoidant personality. A negative body image perception may mediate the association between poor family functioning and psychological distress among adult survivors. The provision of psychosocial intervention early during the cancer care continuum may mitigate the negative impact of body image distress in Chinese AYA survivors.
Uptake of Risk‐Reducing Salpingo‐Oophorectomy and Gynaecologic Surveillance Among Germline BRCA Pathogenic Variants Carriers
Authors: Inzoli Alessandra , Negri Serena , Dell'Oro Cristina , Costa Clarissa , Marchetta Liliana , Boccadutri Mariaclara , Fumagalli Simona , Roversi Gaia , Sala Elena Maria , Celi Chiara , Rossi Valentina , Fruscio Robert
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Risk‐reducing salpingo‐oophorectomy (RRSO) is recommended by international guidelines in women with BRCA1/2 germline pathogenic variants (PV) to prevent ovarian cancer. Despite the solid recommendation, women frequently refuse surgery and uptake rates reported in the literature are diverse. This study analyses the uptake rate of RRSO in BRCA 1/2 PV‐carriers referred to a specialised referral centre for first counselling and investigate personal factors linked to the decision.

Methods

This is a single‐centre prospective study of BRCA1/2 PV‐carriers referred for the first counselling to IRCCS Fondazione San Gerardo de’ Tintori (Monza, Italy) between January 2010 and May 2023. Depending on individual characteristics, women were either proposed RRSO or surveillance, consisting of transvaginal ultrasound and CA125 measurement twice per year according to Regional guidelines. Women within the centre have access to a clinical psychologist, a nutritional consult and treatment of menopausal atrophy with diode vaginal laser. The primary endpoint of the study was the uptake rate of RRSO. The secondary objective was to evaluate the main reasons for refusing surgery.

Results

Among the 287 women included, surgery was proposed to 205 women either at first counselling or during surveillance and was accepted by 197, with an uptake rate of 96.1%. 17.25% of women met the psychologist before or after surgery. The main reasons for refusing RRSO were fear of iatrogenic menopause and childbearing desire.

Conclusion

This study shows a high uptake rate of RRSO in BRCA PV‐carriers. We believe that the presence of a dedicated outpatient clinic with a multidisciplinary team contributes decisively to our results. Gynaecologic surveillance, as though not beneficial in terms of oncological prevention, may play a significant role in encouraging women with BRCA PV to opt for risk‐reducing surgery.
Gut Microbiota Regulates Food Intake in a Rodent Model of Intermittent Limited Access to Palatable Food
Authors: Demangeat Thomas , Loison Léa , Huré Marion , do Rego Jean‐Luc , Déchelotte Pierre , Achamrah Najate , Coëffier Moïse , Ribet David
Published: December 2024

Objective

Binge‐eating disorder is characterized by recurrent episodes of consumption of large amounts of food within a short period of time, without compensatory purging behaviors. This disease is a major public health issue and is associated with numerous comorbidities, encompassing anxiety and depression. The gut microbiota has been proposed to be an important player in the onset or maintenance of eating disorders. Here, we aim to better delineate the potential role of the gut microbiota in binge‐eating disorder.

Method

We used a model of intermittent limited access to palatable food where eight‐week‐old C57Bl/6 female mice had access during 2 h, every 2 days over a 10‐day period, to a high‐fat/high‐sucrose diet. Half of the animals received antibiotics to deplete their gut microbiota. Eating behavior and other behavioral parameters were compared between groups.

Results

We observed an increase in food intake as well as tachyphagia during the intermittent access to high‐fat/high‐sucrose diet. We demonstrate that gut microbiota depletion further increases food intake during these episodes and promotes binge‐eating behavior. No impact on anxiety or depressive‐like behavior was observed in animals.

Discussion

These results show that the gut microbiota is involved in the control of food intake during episodes of binge‐eating. This strengthens the potential role of the gut bacteria in binge‐eating disorder and the interest in therapeutic strategies aiming at modulating the patients' gut microbiota to treat this eating disorder.
Water productivity and economic feasibility of drip irrigation system investment in tomato cultivation: Case of northeastern Tunisia
Authors: Messaoudi Fatma , Ben Nouna Bechir , Chebil Ali , Ounaies Fayçal , Ben Alaya Atef
Published: December 2024

Tunisia is characterized by water scarcity, growing water demand and considerable waste of this resource especially in the agricultural sector. To cope with this situation and enhance water productivity, appropriate utilization of advanced irrigation methods such as drip irrigation is highly needed. Hence, this research aims to evaluate the profitability of drip irrigation systems compared with surface irrigation systems at the perimeter of Echraf, which is located in the northeastern of Tunisia. Primary data were collected from 25 adopters of the Drip Irrigation System and 13 non‐adopters. The results of the partial budget analysis revealed that the average total cost for adopters was higher than that for non‐adopters. However, the net margin was higher for adopters than for non‐adopters. This is due to the greater increase in gross revenue for adopters than for non‐adopters. Additionally, drip irrigation resulted in more efficient water use and water values than did the surface irrigation system. Economic profitability analysis via the benefit cost ratio and net present value tools revealed that the drip irrigation system is profitable. The benefit cost ratio is equal to 1.65, and the net present value is approximately 2938 Tunisian National Dinar. Finally, the sensitivity analysis reveals the extent to which profitability is sensitive to the scenarios of subsidy levels.
Health Implications of Proinflammatory Cytokine Activity at Different Levels of Fluoride Exposure: A Systematic Review
Authors: Lavalle‐Carrasco Jesús , Molina‐Frechero Nelly , López‐Verdín Sandra , Bologna‐Molina Ronell
Published: December 2024

The chronic intake of excessive fluoride (F−) (>  1.5 mg/L) affects several tissues, organs, and systems. This represents a worldwide issue due to the presence of the compound in nature, with drinking water being the main source of exposure. The underlying mechanisms by which F− is toxic are not completely understood, but proinflammatory cytokine activity is implicated in these events. The aim of this study was to perform a systematic review of the health implications of proinflammatory cytokine activity at different levels of F− exposure. The search for original studies in which the activity of proinflammatory cytokines was assessed under exposure to F− was performed using the PubMed, Scopus, Springer, EBSCO, and Google Scholar databases by applying the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. The study protocol was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42024546726). Sixteen studies were analyzed in the present review. Tumor necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α), interleukin (IL)‐1 beta (β), IL‐6, IL‐2, IL‐12, IL‐17, IL‐18, C‐reactive protein, and transforming growth factor‐β (TGF‐β) were the proinflammatory cytokines identified in the included reports. Alterations in cytokine activity were observed in response to varying levels of F− exposure, implicating an increased risk of toxicity and damage to the evaluated structures by highlighting the role of inflammation in the progression of these processes. Hence, the activity of proinflammatory cytokines at different levels of F− exposure has important implications for health, where inflammation plays a relevant role in the underlying mechanisms related to the resulting toxicity.
Bottom‐Up Effects of Various Plant Growth Promoting Treatments on Fitness Parameters of Hippodamia variegata
Authors: Mardani‐Talaee Mozhgan , Nouri‐Ganblani Gadir , Razmjou Jabraeil , Hassanpour Mahdi , Vivekanandhan Perumal , Naseri Bahram
Published: December 2024

Plant growth‐promoting activities using biological, chemical, and organic fertilizers are well‐documented for pest insects, their impacts on predators are less commonly studied. This research investigates whether bell pepper plants treated with plant growth‐promoting rhizobacteria (PGPRs), arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), vermicompost (30%), and zinc sulfate either separately or in selected combinations affect the nutrient indices and population growth traits of the ladybug predator, Hippodamia variegata (Goeze), when fed on aphids, Myzus persicae (Sulzer). Bell pepper plants were individually treated with two PGPRs (Bacillus subtilis and Pseudomonas fluorescens), one AMF (Glomus intraradices), soil amended with 30% vermicompost (v/v), and foliar application of zinc sulfate under greenhouse conditions. Combined treatments of AMF × B. subtilis and AMF × P. fluorescens were also tested. Nutritional indices and population growth parameters of predator were reared on the treated plants infested with aphids. Results showed that the efficiency of conversion of ingested food (ECI) in predator larvae was highest on B. subtilis‐treated aphids and lowest on vermicompost‐treated aphids. The relative growth rate (RGR) of predator was the highest on zinc sulfate‐treated aphids and lowest on vermicompost‐treated aphids. Predators fed on vermicompost‐treated aphids had the lowest net reproductive rate (R₀) and intrinsic rate of increase (r), while R₀ was highest for predators fed on B. subtilis‐treated aphids and r was highest on P. fluorescens‐ and B. subtilis‐treated aphids. These findings suggest that zinc sulfate and biological fertilizers involving PGPRs can enhance the ecological fitness of predators and could be effective in biocontrol‐based integrated pest management of aphids.
Systematic Review of 3D‐Printed Ultrasound‐able Models in Graduate Medical Education
Authors: Krech Joshua D. , Wyatt Taylor , Harmon Derek J.
Published: December 2024

This systematic review aimed to identify studies that have created ultrasound‐able models for resident procedural training by means of 3D‐printing techniques and examine their tissue specific properties. There were 456 articles identified from 3 databases, of which, 35 studies were assessed for eligibility, and 11 total studies were included. All qualitative studies showed improvements in procedural skills and 89% of the quantitative studies showed significant results. Studies that documented modeling price showed a 90% reduction in fabrication cost compared to commercial models. Three‐dimensional‐printed, ultrasound‐able models have the potential to provide trainees with low‐cost, high‐fidelity training opportunities.
Information‐Sharing Strategies Based on Trust Risks Under a Governmental Incentive Mechanism
Authors: Fu Xiao , Niu Shuxuan , Han Guanghua
Published: December 2024

Due to swift shifts in market demand and variable production capacities within the chip industry, trust risks between upstream and downstream entities can readily develop, leading to challenges in information sharing. To tackle this challenge, this paper develops a two‐level evolutionary game model between vehicle manufacturers and chip suppliers. It examines the effects of government rewards and penalties, trust risks, and spillover benefits from information sharing on the strategic decisions of both parties. Furthermore, the paper investigates system evolution strategies under three distinct government policies: forced, fair, and favored. The findings show that as trust risks escalate, both entities in the supply chain tend to withhold information due to concerns over losing their unique competitive advantages. However, enhancing spillover benefits through information sharing positively impacts the mitigation of trust risks. Numerical simulations demonstrate that while a government‐forced policy with increased penalties may boost information sharing in the short term, it proves less effective over the long term. Conversely, preferred rewards and subsidies under equitable policies can significantly boost one party's readiness to share information, thus enhancing cooperation between the two parties. The paper also offers countermeasures and recommendations. For instance, it suggests that upstream and downstream enterprises should not only foster mutual trust but also vigilantly track government policy directions to develop effective information‐sharing strategies. Furthermore, government industrial policies should fully consider the actual market conditions to alleviate trust risks between upstream and downstream entities and promote information sharing among enterprises.
Design of Reward Tiers in Crowdfunding: Eschewing Acknowledgments and Prioritizing Promotion
Authors: Fan Liangchen , Qin Jin , Yao Yao
Published: December 2024

This study investigates how reward tier design impacts crowdfunding performance. We innovatively categorize reward tiers into three utilitarian types—basic, promotional, and one‐dollar—and we consider hedonic acknowledgments of types public and personal. By analyzing data from 2471 Kickstarter projects (with 20,183 tiers), we find an inverted U‐shaped relationship between the number of promotional tiers and fundraising performance. In contrast, offering more basic tiers or having a one‐dollar tier hinders fundraising. Counterintuitively, neither public nor personal acknowledgments in reward tiers are positively related to the fundraising performance. These new insights provide guidance for practice in crowdfunding.
Generalized Taylor Series and Peano Kernel Theorem
Authors: Zürnacı‐Yetiş Fatma , Dişibüyük Çetin
Published: December 2024

As in the polynomial case, non‐polynomial divided differences can be viewed as a discrete analog of derivatives. This link between non‐polynomial divided differences and derivatives is defined by a generalization of the derivative operator. In this study, we obtain a generalization of Taylor series using the link between non‐polynomial divided differences and derivatives, and state generalized Taylor theorem. With the definition of a definite integral, the relation between the non‐polynomial divided difference and non‐polynomial B‐spline functions is given in terms of integration. Also, we derive a general form of the Peano kernel theorem based on a generalized Taylor expansion with the integral remainder. As in the polynomial case, it is shown that the non‐polynomial B‐splines are in fact the Peano kernels of non‐polynomial divided differences.

MSC2020 Classification: 65D05, 65D07
Bistatic RCS Pattern Synthesis With a Receiver–Transmitter Metasurface and a Phase Distribution Optimization Algorithm
Authors: Sima Boyu , Xu Yibang , Li Huangyan , Wang Xiang , Zong Zhiyuan , Kang Wei , Wu Wen
Published: December 2024

This paper proposes a metasurface design method to achieve bistatic radar cross‐section (RCS) pattern synthesis in space, based on a receiver–transmitter metasurface (RTMS) and a genetic algorithm for phase distribution optimization. Due to the slots on the ground between the adjacent metasurface elements, the unwanted interunit coupling effect is significantly reduced. Based on the theoretical analysis model of the phased array, the corresponding phase distribution of the required RCS pattern is optimized by a genetic algorithm. According to the required phase distribution, the corresponding RTMS units are designed, and the overall RTMS structure is finally constructed. The simulated results demonstrate that the electromagnetic (EM) waves scattered by the proposed RTMS are concentrated in the desired directions of 0° and ±49° which is consistent with the design intention. Both simulated and measured results verify that the proposed RTMS design methodology can realize the bistatic RCS control in space with a customized shape.
Pulsed beam monitoring for electron FLASH
Authors: Morris Toby , Rajapakse Arith , Lyatskaya Yulia , Zygmanski Piotr , Bredfeldt Jeremy , Sajo Erno , Brivio Davide
Published: December 2024

Background

Safe implementation and translation of FLASH radiotherapy to the clinic requirehs development of beam monitoring devices capable of high temporal resolution with wide dynamic ranges. Ideal detectors should be able to monitor LINAC pulses, withstand high doses and dose rates, and provide information about the beam output, energy/range, and profile.

Purpose

Two novel detectors have been designed and tested for ultra‐high dose‐rate (UHDR) monitoring: a multilayer nano‐structured 3‐layer high‐energy‐current (HEC3) detector, and a segmented large area, 4‐section flat (S4) detector with the goal of exploring their properties for a future combined design.

Methods

A Novalis‐TX LINAC was converted to produce a 10 MeV electron‐FLASH beam. Pulses were monitored using both HEC3 and S4 detectors. The HEC3 detector structure consisted of three electrode layers separated by a nanoporous aerogel (Aero): Al(50 µm)–Aero(100 µm)–Ta(10 µm)–Aero(100 µm)–Al(50 µm). The S4 structure was comprised of three layers: Cu(100 nm)–air(1 mm)–Al(100 nm) with contact potential for charge collection. Both detectors are self‐powered as they do not require an external voltage bias for charge collection. The beam was also characterized using a photodiode, Gafchromic EBT‐XD Film, OSLDs, and an Advanced Markus Chamber.

Results

The electron‐FLASH beam displayed a Gaussian‐like profile with 15 cm FWHM at isocenter. Electron‐FLASH dose rates up to an average of 260 Gy/s were measured on the surface of a solid water phantom at isocenter with an instantaneous dose rate of 1.8 × 105 Gy/s and a dose per pulse of up to 1 Gy/pulse. Both HEC3 and S4 detectors could record individual pulses for repetition rates of 360 Hz with a 4 µs pulse‐width. The HEC3 detector signal increased linearly with dose, MU, number of pulses, and dose rate up to 850 Gy/s with no loss of functionality at high doses or dose rates. The S4 detector showed linearity with MU and number of pulses at each of the four channels independently showing potential for spatial information and steering but lacked dose rate independence.

Conclusions

Two novel detectors, HEC3 and S4, successfully measured electron‐FLASH pulses and hence can be considered capable of electron‐FLASH beam monitoring in different capacities. HEC3 detector technology is suitable for monitoring high‐dose and UHDR beams with high temporal resolution required for pulse counting. We envision the combination of the HEC3 internal structure with the S4 piece‐wise design for real‐time monitoring of the temporal structure, spatial profiles, energy, and dosimetric properties of UHDR beams.