Search Results (5,487)

Developments in agriculture is reshaping the agribusiness landscape, altering farms’ bargaining power and strategic positioning within supply chains. These dynamics raise important questions about how financial strength influences farmers’ preferences for different components of business relationships with input suppliers. The primary objective of this study is to examine the relationship between a farm’s financial power and the importance it assigns to the behavioral dimension in such relationships. To address this objective, we employ a two-stage research design. In the first stage, qualitative interviews with farmers were conducted to identify the key attributes contributing to relationship value, encompassing economic, strategic, and behavioral dimensions. In the second stage, a quantitative survey was administered to 249 farmers, supplemented with financial data from the Farm Accountancy Data Network (FADN). The Maximum Difference Scaling (MaxDiff) method was applied to assess the relative importance of these attributes, followed by statistical analysis linking the observed preferences to a composite indicator of financial power. The results indicate that financially stronger farms place greater emphasis on economic factors while attaching less importance to behavioral aspects. Among less financially powerful farms, two distinct patterns emerge: one characterized by opportunistic, price-oriented behavior, and another reflecting a relational orientation that values trust, communication, and long-term cooperation alongside economic conditions. These findings contribute to a better understanding of business relationships in agribusiness by explaining how financial power shapes the trade-off between economic and behavioral components. Full article

Turbidite lobe reservoirs represent critical deep-sea hydrocarbon targets, yet preferred seepage channels within them remain poorly characterized. This paper establishes a method for identifying internal preferred seepage channels in turbidite lobe reservoirs using data including seismic, core, thin section, logging, and production performance, combined with neural network technology. A neural network model for predicting reservoir productivity types can be obtained by taking the average logging data of reservoir intervals as input and the reservoir productivity types categorized by meter oil production index calculated by actual production data as the target. By applying the trained neural network model and inputting actual logging attribute model, the reservoir productivity types of single wells are obtained. Using the attribute model of natural gamma ray, acoustic, neutron, density, deep lateral, and shallow lateral logs, which are built by using the actual logging data and Sequential Gaussian Simulation, and supervising with the single well reservoir productivity type, the reservoir productivity type at any position in the reservoir can be predicted. It predicts their spatial distribution characteristics, reveals the genetic mechanism of preferred seepage channels, and discusses the significance of identifying preferred seepage channels for oilfield development. The results show that the reservoir productivity types in the study area can be divided into five categories with progressive improvement in productivity (A, B, C, D, and E) according to the increase in oil production index per meter, among which Type E reservoirs represent typical preferred seepage channels. The attribute model of reservoir productivity types indicates that, horizontally, types E and B are locally developed in the study area, while types D, C, and A are widely distributed. The preferred seepage channels can be divided into two types according to the shape: zonal (length to width > 2:1) and sheet-like (length to width ≤ 2:1). Vertically, types C, D, and E are relatively well-developed in layers III and IV, whereas types A and B are more common in layers I and II. The vertical combination patterns of preferred seepage channels reveal four types, including homogeneous, bottom-dominated, top-dominated, and interbedded patterns. The formation of preferred seepage channels is influenced by both sedimentary and diagenetic processes, and sedimentary is the most important controlling factors. The identification of preferred seepage channels in turbidite lobe reservoirs is of great significance for formulating development policies and tapping remaining oil. Full article

Objective: We aimed to quantify multiple sclerosis (MS)-related work productivity and to illustrate the longitudinal trends for relapses, disease progression, and utilization of health care resources in a nationally representative cohort of working North Americans living with MS. Background: The North American Registry for Care and Research in Multiple Sclerosis (NARCRMS) is a multicentered physician-reported registry which prospectively collects clinical information including imaging data over a long period of time from people with MS from sites across the U.S. and Canada. The Health Economics Outcomes Research (HEOR) Advisory Group has also incorporated Health-Related Productivity and Health Resource Utilization questionnaires, which collect information about health care economics of people with MS and its effects on daily life. Design/Methods: This is a prospective observational study utilizing data from NARCRMS. Socio-demographic, clinical, and health economic outcome data were collected through previously validated and structured questionnaires. Logistic regression was used to calculate the relative odds of symptom impact, with a generalized logit link for number of relapses. Cox proportional hazards regression was used to calculate hazard ratios for time to first relapse. Results: Six hundred and eighty-two (682) people with MS were enrolled in NARCRMS and had completed the HEOR questionnaires at the time of the analysis. Among the participants, 61% were employed full-time and 11% were employed part time. Fatigue was the leading symptom reported to impact both work and household chores. Among the employed participants, 13% reported having missed work with a median of 6.8 (IQR: 3.0–9.0) missed hours due to MS symptoms (absenteeism), while 35% reported MS having impacted their work output (presenteeism). The odds of higher disease severity (EDSS 2.0–6.5 vs. 0.0–1.5) were 2.29 (95% CI = 1.08, 4.88; p = 0.011) times higher for participants who identified reduction of work output. Fatigue was the most identified symptom attributed to work output reduction. Among all participants, 33% reported having missed planned household work with a median of 3.0 (IQR: 2.0–5.0) hours. The odds of higher disease severity were 2.49 (95% CI = 1.37, 4.53; p = 0.006) times higher for participants who identified reduction in household work output, and 1.70 (CI = 1.27, 2.49; p = 0.006) times higher for those whose fatigue affected housework output as compared to other symptoms. Conclusions: A preliminary review of the first 682 patients showed that people with MS had reduced work and housework productivity even at an early disease state. Multiple sclerosis (MS) can significantly impair individuals’ ability to function fully at work and at home, with fatigue overwhelmingly identified as the primary contributing factor. The economic value of finding an effective treatment for MS-related fatigue is substantial, underscoring the importance of these findings for policy development, priority setting, and the strategic allocation of healthcare resources for this chronic and disabling condition. Full article

The development of gravity flow sedimentology has improved our understanding of the physical properties of different types of gravity flow deposits, especially the advancement of various gravity flow models. Although studies of gravity flows have developed greatly, the linkage between different sub-facies and their reservoir properties is hindered by a lack of detailed sedimentary records. Here, integrated test data (including thin-section petrology, high-pressure mercury injection experiments, capillary pressure curve analysis, and scanning electron microscopy) are used to evaluate links between different types of gravity flows and their reservoir properties from the Late Triassic–Early Jurassic Anyao Formation, southeastern Paleo-Ordos Basin, China. The petrological and sedimentological data reveal two types of deep-water gravity flow deposits comprising sandy debris flow (SDF) and turbidity current (TC) deposits. Both are fine-grained lithic sandstones and form low-porosity and ultra-low permeability reservoirs. Secondary porosity, formed by the dissolution of framework grains, including feldspars and lithic fragments, dominates the pore types. This secondary porosity is widely developed in the Anyao Formation and formed by reaction with organic acids during burial (early mesodiagenesis). The associated mud rocks have reached the early mature stage of the oil window with Tmax of 442–448 °C. Compared with the turbidites, the sandy debris flows have higher framework grain content (87.9 vs. 84.8%), framework grain size (0.091 vs. 0.008 mm), porosity (6.97 vs. 3.44%), pore throat radius (0.102 vs. 0.025 μm), and permeability (0.025 vs. 0.005 mD) but are relatively poor in the sorting of framework grains and pore throat radii. The most important petrological factors affecting porosity and permeability of the SDF reservoirs are framework grain size and feldspar grain content, respectively, but those of the TC reservoirs are feldspar grain content and the maximum pore throat radius. Diagenetic dissolution of framework grains is the most important porosity-affecting factor for both SDF and TC reservoirs. Our multi-proxy study provides new insights into the links between gravity flow sub-facies and reservoir properties in the lacustrine deep-water environment. Full article

Nuclear factors of activated T cells (NFATs) are pivotal regulatory factors of immune responses, primarily by modulating T cell activity and regulating inflammatory cytokine gene transcription. The grass carp reovirus (GCRV) triggers a serious hemorrhagic condition, posing a significant threat to sustainable grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella) aquaculture. However, the precise function of NFAT in the host’s defense against GCRV infection is mostly undefined. This study comprehensively identified and characterized the NFAT genetic family in grass carp, cloned grass carp NFAT1 (CiNFAT1), and investigated its expression and function during GCRV infection. Eight NFAT genes encoding seventeen isoforms have been detected within the grass carp’s genomic sequence, distributed across six different chromosomes. Comparative analysis revealed homology with zebrafish NFATs. CiNFAT1 possesses a 2697 bp open reading frame, encoding 898 amino acids, and contains conserved Rel homology domain (RHD) and NFAT-homology (IPT) domains. Quantitative PCR (qPCR) revealed ubiquitous CiNFAT1 expression in healthy grass carp tissues, with the highest expression in gills and skin and the lowest in liver. Following GCRV challenge in vivo, CiNFAT1 expression in immune tissues (liver, spleen, kidney, gill, intestine) showed dynamic changes over time. In vitro experiments in CIK cells demonstrated that CiNFAT1 expression peaked at 12 h post-GCRV infection. Further functional studies revealed that overexpression of CiNFAT1 significantly reduced GCRV replication at 36 h post-infection. This reduction was accompanied by elevated expression of type I interferon (IFN-I) and interferon regulatory factor 7 (IRF7) at 24 and 36 h, respectively, as well as modulated IL-2, IL-8, and IL-10. Conversely, RNA interference-mediated knockdown of CiNFAT1 enhanced GCRV VP5 and VP7 mRNA levels and suppressed IL-2 and IL-8 expression. These results suggest that CiNFAT1 contributes to anti-GCRV immunity by promoting antiviral and inflammatory cytokine responses, thereby inhibiting viral replication. This study provides a foundational understanding of the NFAT genetic family in grass carp and highlights an important role of CiNFAT1 in mediating the body’s inherent defense mechanism against GCRV infection, offering insights for disease control strategies in aquaculture. Full article

Frequent grassland fires have severely affected regional ecosystems as well as the production and living conditions of local residents. Grassland fire prevention capabilities constitute an integral part of the disaster prevention and mitigation system and play an important role in improving grassroots governance. To gain a deeper understanding of the practical foundation and influencing mechanisms of grassland fire prevention capabilities, establish an evaluation index system for prevention capabilities covering the four dimensions of disaster prevention, disaster resistance, disaster relief, and recovery. Combining micro-level survey data, a quantile regression model is used to analyze the influencing factors. The research findings indicate that (1) disaster resistance (0.49) plays a prominent role in grassland fire prevention capabilities, with economic foundations and individual disaster relief capabilities being particularly critical for overall improvement. Although residents have strong fire prevention awareness, their organizational collaboration capabilities are relatively weak, and there are significant differences in prevention capabilities across regions, necessitating tailored, precise enhancements. (2) There are significant differences in prevention capabilities among residents of different agricultural and pastoral production types, with semi-agricultural and semi-pastoral areas having the strongest comprehensive capabilities and pastoral areas relatively weaker. (3) A significant analysis of factors influencing grassland fire prevention capabilities: effective and diverse risk communication is a prerequisite for enhancing residents’ prevention capabilities; the level of panic regarding grassland fires and road infrastructure are important influencing factors, but residents’ understanding of climate change and grassroots organizations’ capacity for mechanism construction have insignificant impacts. Therefore, in future grassland fire disaster prevention and mitigation efforts, it is essential to strengthen risk communication, improve infrastructure, monitor environmental changes and the spatiotemporal patterns of grassland fires, enhance residents’ understanding of climate change, reinforce the emergency response capabilities of grassroots organizations, and stimulate public participation awareness to collectively build a multi-tiered grassland fire prevention system. Full article

With the advancement of refined urban governance and the construction of high-quality public spaces, street furniture design and usage face multiple challenges, including insufficient public participation and a neglect of actual user experience. These issues highlight the urgent need to establish a scientifically grounded user evaluation framework to inform design practices. This study focuses on Yangzhou Ecological Science and Technology New Town and, drawing on field investigation, grounded theory, and the Delphi method, develops a street furniture design evaluation framework encompassing three core dimensions: planning and configuration, environmental coordination, and operational management. Building on this framework, the Analytic Hierarchy Process and Fuzzy Comprehensive Evaluation method are employed to conduct a holistic assessment of the street furniture and to identify critical design deficiencies. The results demonstrate that the proposed framework effectively identifies the strengths and weaknesses of street furniture and provides robust support for formulating targeted optimization strategies. The results reveal significant variations in the perceived importance of design factors among different user groups. Residents primarily emphasize practicality and convenience in daily use. Tourists value aesthetic expression and cultural resonance, whereas government officials focus on construction standardization and maintenance efficiency. In terms of satisfaction, all three groups reported relatively low scores, with the ranking as follows: “planning and configuration” > “management and operations” > “environmental coordination.” Based on these findings, the study proposes targeted design guidelines for future practice. The evaluation framework has been adopted by local authorities, incorporated into official street furniture design guidelines, and implemented in pilot projects—demonstrating its practical applicability and value. This research contributes to the theoretical advancement of street furniture design and provides empirical and methodological support for applications in other emerging urban areas and new town developments. Full article

The interaction between microplastics (MPs) and heavy metals and their ecological risks to the soil–plant system has attracted widespread attention. This study explored the effects of polypropylene (PP) alone or combined with cadmium (Cd) pollution on wheat seed germination, plant growth, and the soil environment from multiple perspectives through seed germination experiments and pot experiments. The results of the seed germination experiment showed that the addition of 50 mg L⁻¹ PP could promote the growth of seeds. However, medium and high concentrations of PP had significant inhibitory effects on seeds. For PP + Cd co-pollution, the addition of 50 mg L⁻¹ PP could partially alleviate the stress of Cd alone. However, with the increase in PP concentration, the co-pollution showed stronger toxicity to seeds. Moreover, the synergistic effect of PP and Cd was greater than the antagonistic effect; both of them aggravated the stress on wheat. The results of the pot experiment showed that the soil microenvironment was significantly affected by PP alone or combined with Cd pollution. It was manifested as reducing soil moisture and pH, affecting soil nutrient cycling, and inhibiting the activities of soil enzymes (except for catalase). In addition, the MPs and Cd significantly affected the physiological characteristics of plants. Specifically, the addition of 50 mg L⁻¹ PP alone promoted or had no significant effect on wheat growth. However, with the increase in PP concentration, the biomass and chlorophyll content of plants decreased significantly, while carotenoids, oxidative damage, and antioxidant enzyme activities increased significantly. Moreover, PP + Cd co-pollution led to stronger phytotoxicity. Moreover, PP exposure caused an increase in plant shoot and root Cd concentrations, promoting Cd transport from roots to shoots. Correlation heat maps and RDA analysis revealed that plant Cd concentration was significantly correlated with soil environmental factors and plant physiological indicators. Finally, the results of the linear model (%) of relative importance indicated that pH and MDA content were important soil and plant variables affecting the increase in Cd concentration in plant tissues. This study is of great significance for evaluating the ecological risks of MPs-Cd composite pollution. Full article

Mine roof water inrush represents a prevalent hazard in mining operations, characterized by its concealed onset, abrupt occurrence, and high destructiveness. Since mine water inrush is controlled by multiple factors, rigorous risk assessment in hydrogeologically complex coal mines is critically important for operational safety. This study focuses on the roof water inrush hazard in coal seams of the Banji coal mine, China. The conventional water-conducting fracture zone height estimation formula was calibrated through comparative analysis of empirical models and analogous field measurements. Eight principal controlling factors were systematically selected, with subjective and objective weights assigned using AHP and EWM, respectively. Game theory was subsequently implemented to compute optimal combined weights. Based on this, the vulnerability index model and fuzzy comprehensive evaluation model were constructed to assess the roof water inrush risk in the coal seams. The risk in the study area was classified into five levels: safe zone, relatively safe zone, transition zone, relatively hazardous zone, and hazardous zone. A zoning map of water inrush risk was generated using Geographic Information System (GIS) technology. The results show that the safe zone is located in the western part of the study area, while the hazardous and relatively hazardous zones are situated in the eastern part. Among the two models, the fuzzy comprehensive evaluation model aligns more closely with actual engineering practices and demonstrates better predictive performance. It provides a reliable evaluation and prediction model for addressing roof water hazards in the Banji coal seam. Full article

Background/Objectives: Anxiety is a hallmark feature of Williams syndrome (WS), with very high prevalence rates of generalised anxiety disorder (GAD) and specific phobias in both school-aged children and adults, yet a relatively lower prevalence of social phobia. There is very limited research on anxiety in very young children with WS, and no study to date has examined the early prevalence and development of different anxiety disorders in WS. The present research provides a comprehensive assessment of the prevalence and longitudinal profile of anxiety symptomology in very young children with WS. Potential environmental and demographic correlates of anxiety symptomology were also explored. Methods: Participants included 19 young children with WS, aged between 2 and 5 years (at initial testing), who completed a comprehensive developmental assessment. Parents/guardians also completed the Spence Children’s Anxiety Scale (SCAS; Spence, 1997 & Spence et al., 2001), a standardised, psychometrically robust anxiety questionnaire (commonly utilised in research and clinical settings) that measures anxiety symptomology for various anxiety disorders present in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5; American Psychiatric Association, 2013). Results: The present research found anxiety symptomology to be highly prevalent in very young children with WS, particularly GAD and specific phobia. Moreover, the prevalence of anxiety symptomology increased with age and over time, with many children developing comorbid anxiety disorder symptoms approximately 3.5 years later, at Time 2. Chronological age, sex, and developmental/intellectual capabilities were also found to impact on the developmental trajectory of anxiety in young children with WS. Conclusions: The longitudinal findings provide evidence for the contribution of environmental factors on the nature, developmental course, and maintenance of anxiety. Considerable individual variability was apparent, confirming the importance of individual assessments and developing individualised treatment programmes for those with WS. Full article

Background: Several physical qualities have been linked to countermovement jump (CMJ) performance. However, the relative importance of each of these factors is unclear. (1) Objectives: The present systematic review sought to evaluate the characteristics associated with CMJ performance in adult team-sport athletes. (2) Methods: A comprehensive search of three databases and the grey literature yielded 18 articles that met the inclusion criteria. Pearson’s correlation coefficient was used to assess statistically significant relationships and interpreted as negligible (0.00–0.10), weak (0.10–0.39), moderate (0.40–0.69), strong (0.70–0.89), and very strong (0.90–1.00). (3) Results: Eighteen articles remained eligible, with an average quality score of 76% ± 14 on the Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal index. The strongest correlations reported included time-to-bottom, time-to-peak force, knee extension peak power at 180 °/s, and squat jump height. (4) Conclusions: The conclusions drawn from this study suggest that, to maximize CMJ performance, priority should be given to movement biomechanics and lower-body power whilst considering individual braking-phase strategies. These findings may inform training programs aimed not only at enhancing athletic performance but also at reducing injury risks associated with poor jumping mechanics in team sports. Full article

Mollusks are among the most ecologically and economically significant invertebrates; yet, their associated microbiomes remain understudied relative to those of other metazoans. This scoping review synthesizes the current literature on the diversity, composition, functional roles, and ecological implications of molluscan microbiomes, with an emphasis on three major groups: gastropods, bivalves, and cephalopods. Drawing on studies from terrestrial, freshwater, and marine systems, we identified the dominant bacterial phyla, including Proteobacteria, Bacteroidetes, and Firmicutes, and explored how microbiota vary across different habitats, diets, tissue types, and host taxonomies. We examined the contribution of molluscan microbiomes to host functions, including digestion, immune modulation, stress responses, and nutrient cycling. Particular attention was given to the role of microbiota in shell formation, pollutant degradation, and adaptation to environmental stressors. The review also evaluated microbial interactions at different developmental stages and under aquaculture conditions. Factors influencing microbiome assembly, such as the host’s genetics, life history traits, and environmental exposure, were mapped using conceptual and graphical tools. Applications of molluscan microbiome research in aquaculture, conservation biology, and environmental biomonitoring are highlighted. However, inconsistencies in the sampling methods, taxonomic focus, and functional annotations limit the generalizability across taxa. We identify key knowledge gaps and propose future directions, including the use of meta-omics, standardized protocols, and experimental validation to deepen insights. By synthesizing emerging findings, this review contributes to a growing framework for understanding mollusk–microbiome interactions and their relevance to host fitness and ecosystem health. It further establishes the importance of mollusks as model systems for advancing microbiome science. Full article

Intracranial aneurysms are a serious cerebrovascular condition with a risk of subarachnoid hemorrhage due to rupture, leading to high mortality and morbidity. Flow Diverter Stents (FDSs) have become an important endovascular treatment option for unruptured large or wide-neck aneurysms. Hemodynamic factors significantly influence treatment outcomes in aneurysms treated with FDSs, and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) has been widely used to evaluate post-deployment flow characteristics. However, conventional wire-resolved CFD methods require extremely fine meshes to reconstruct individual FDS wires, resulting in prohibitively high computational costs. This severely limits their feasibility for use in clinical treatment planning, where fast and robust simulations are essential. To address this limitation, we developed a computationally efficient CFD method that incorporates a porous media model accounting for local variations in wire density after FDS deployment. Based on Virtual Stent Simulation, the FDS region was defined as a hollow cylindrical domain with spatially varying resistance derived from cell-specific wire density. We validated the proposed method using 15 clinical cases, demonstrating close agreement with conventional wire-resolved CFD results. Relative errors in key hemodynamic parameters, including velocity, shear rate, inflow rate, and turnover time, were within 5%, with correlation coefficients exceeding 0.98. The number of grid elements, the data size, and total analysis time were reduced by over 90%. The method also allowed comparison between Total-Filling (OKM Grade A) and Occlusion (Grade D) cases, and evaluation of different FDS sizing, positioning, and coil-assisted strategies. The proposed method enables practical and efficient CFD analysis following FDS treatment and supports hemodynamics-based treatment planning of aneurysms. Full article

Background/Objectives: Lucid dreaming (LD), during which the dreamer becomes aware of the dream state, offers a unique opportunity for a variety of applications, including motor practice, personal well-being, and nightmare therapy. However, these applications largely depend on the dreamer’s ability to control their dreams. While LD research has traditionally focused on induction techniques to increase dream frequency, the equally important skill of dream control remains largely underexplored. This study provides an exploration into the mechanisms of LD motor practice, dream control, and its potential influencing factors. We specifically examined whether a complex motor skill—juggling—could be performed during LD, calling for relatively high levels of dream control and access to procedural memory. Methods: Four healthy participants underwent overnight polysomnography (PSG), provided detailed dream reports, and completed questionnaires assessing dream control and self-efficacy. Dream-task success was assessed using predefined in-dream motor performance criteria. Differences between high and low LD control participants were examined, and two detailed case reports of lucid dream juggling attempts provide insight into the challenges of executing complex motor tasks during LD. Results: Dream control varied between and within participants. Both dream control and self-efficacy seemed to predict participants’ ability to execute the LD motor task. Conclusions: Despite the low sample size, this study highlights the potential roles of individual traits like self-efficacy in shaping dream control abilities and motor performance during LD. By using empirical, task-based measures, this study helps build the foundation for future research aimed at optimizing LD applications in clinical and non-clinical fields. Full article

Localization of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) in spaces with a limited availability of Global Navigation Satellite System signals presents a challenge, and one possible solution is the usage of Ultra-Wideband (UWB) transceivers as an aid in the localization process. This paper examines the influence of placing the UWB anchors on the UAVs’ localization accuracy in indoor spaces. Different testing scenarios, with variations in the number of anchors and their relative position towards the UAV, were created. Results show that the anchor placement plays an important role and is a significant factor in achieving accurate positioning of UAVs. The error for different testing configurations was shown through the RMSE for each axis, backed up by the standard deviation. The increase in the number of UWB anchors with the combined use of an additional laser ranging sensor for altitude measurement provided the best result. The RMSE was less than 18 cm in each axis of a 3D coordinate system with the standard deviation of up to 4.41 cm. For the testing scenarios that included the usage of a laser altimeter, the RMSE for the z-axis dropped below 1 cm, with the standard deviation of under 0.3 cm. Full article