Browse Articles

The impact of globalization, renewable energy, and labor on sustainable development: A cross-country analysis

Sustainable development stands as both a goal and a prevailing trend in the global economy all the time. However, a comprehensive understanding of the internal and external determinants influencing sustainable development is necessary for the formulation of appropriate policies and development strategies. This research investigates dimensions of sustainable development in the panel data of 104 selected countries from 2000 to 2020. These economies are categorized into four groups based on the level of development. The exclusive role is given to the impact of three key factors, based on the triple bottom line (TBL) model, such as globalization, labor, and renewable energy on sustainable development. We employ the panel unit root tests, cointegration tests, and pool mean group (PMG) approach to estimate the relationships between globalization, renewable energy, labor force, and sustainable development. The results indicate the positive effects of globalization, labor, and renewable energy on sustainable development. Furthermore, a higher level of renewable energy consumption promotes sustainable development within the divided groups. The findings highlight that the labor factor has a positive impact on the sustainable development of all groups of economies. Thereby, the sustainability policy are implied to focus on the educational policy, improving social stability and renewable energy sources, particularly in the middle trap countries.

Intra-somatosensory cortical circuits mediating pain-induced analgesia

COVID-19 symptom severity and duration among outpatients, July 2021-May 2023: The PROTECT observational study

Introduction With the emergence of new SARS-CoV-2 variants has come significant variations in disease manifestation, severity, and duration in non-hospitalized infected patients. To characterize symptom patterns and risk factors associated with symptom severity and duration, COVID-19 and influenza-like illness (ILI) outpatients and their contacts were enrolled at two sites in the United States of America and one site in Thailand. Methods COVID-19 infection was confirmed at enrollment with a positive antigen or PCR test. Baseline demographics and medical histories were collected from participants at enrollment and daily self-reported symptom questionnaires were obtained to assess symptom severity and duration. Risk factors associated with symptom severity and duration were determined by multivariate logistic regression and Cox proportional hazards model. Results Two hundred and forty one participants meeting the eligibility criteria were enrolled, including 174 confirmed COVID-19 cases (9% Delta and 90% Omicron), 33 ILI cases, and 34 healthy contacts. COVID-19 participants had a shorter median symptom duration of 9.0 (95% CI, 8.0–11.0) days than ILI participants. Infection with the Delta variant resulted in a longer symptom alleviation period compared to infection with the Omicron variant. The most commonly reported symptoms among COVID-19 participants were reported in the nasal and chest/respiratory domains of the FLU-PRO Plus. Participants infected with the Delta variant reported more symptoms overall, with significantly more symptoms affecting eyes and senses reported. 55% of SARS-CoV-2-positive participants reached a negative N1 Ct value by the day 14 study time point. No risk factors for moderate to severe symptoms were identified in this outpatient cohort. Male sex was associated with a shorter symptom duration. Conclusion Symptom manifestation varied among Delta and Omicron variants. Few risk factors were identified for increased symptom severity or duration.

WNK1-dependent water influx is required for CD4+ T cell activation and T cell-dependent antibody responses

Abstract Signaling from the T cell antigen receptor (TCR) on CD4 +  T cells plays a critical role in adaptive immune responses by inducing T cell activation, proliferation, and differentiation. Here we demonstrate that WNK1, a kinase implicated in osmoregulation in the kidney, is required in T cells to support T-dependent antibody responses. We show that the canonical WNK1-OXSR1-STK39 kinase signaling pathway is required for TCR signaling in CD4 +  T cells, their subsequent entry into the cell cycle, and suppression of the ATR-mediated G2/M cell cycle checkpoint. We show that the WNK1 pathway regulates ion influx leading to water influx, potentially through AQP3, and that water influx is required for TCR-induced signaling and cell cycle entry. Thus, TCR signaling via WNK1, OXSR1, STK39 and AQP3 leads to water entry that is essential for CD4 +  T cell proliferation and hence T cell-dependent antibody responses.

Exploring experiences of work-related inequitable treatment among international medical graduates (IMGs): A sequential explanatory mixed methods study

Background International medical graduates (IMGs) are an essential workforce for many high-income countries worldwide and are often recruited to fill workforce shortages. Studies identify workplace discrimination as a major challenge for IMGs. However, little detailed exploration has been undertaken on this issue. Methods We designed a sequential explanatory mixed methods study to explore details of inequitable treatment perceived by IMGs in Australia. An online survey was distributed to IMGs across Australia. We analysed data descriptively and tested for significant demographic differences against the primary discrimination variable using tests of association (t-test and chi-squared tests). Following analysis, individual interviews were undertaken by telephone, teleconference or face-to-face. Thematic analysis was conducted on qualitative study components. All data was triangulated to assess areas of congruence and difference and to gain fuller understanding of the data. Results We surveyed and interviewed 286 and 36 IMGs respectively. Most survey respondents reported that IMGs were disadvantaged when compared to Australian graduates, primarily due to registration and bureaucratic processes. Institutions/organisations and senior staff were implicated as major perpetrators of discrimination. Subtle experiences of interpersonal discrimination were reported by > 75% of those reporting discrimination in the last five years. Statistically significant associations (p < 0.05) were identified between the primary discrimination variable and ethnicity, native language, country of primary medical qualification and employment status. Negative sequelae of discrimination on IMG health and career progress were reported. Four themes were identified: i) Disadvantage as an independent construct to discrimination; ii) Structural and institutional discrimination facilitates exploitation; iii) Workplace bullying is a manifestation of inequitable treatment; iv) Inequitable treatment has physical and mental health implications for IMGs. High congruence was detected on triangulation of the quantitative and qualitative results. Conclusions IMGs describe various aspects of discrimination and disadvantage in Australia, warranting further investigation and action. Institutions are responsible for supporting a more equitable and inclusive environment for IMGs.

Integrated sensing and communication based on space-time-coding metasurfaces

Effects of speed, agility, and quickness (SAQ) training on soccer player performance—a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background Previous studies have reported on the impact of Speed, Agility, and Quickness (SAQ) training on the performance of soccer players. However, there is still controversy regarding the results. This systematic review and meta-analysis aim to accurately assess the effects of SAQ training on the performance of soccer players. Methods We conducted a comprehensive search on March 15, 2024, using Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, and EBSCOhost. Eligibility criteria for selecting studies were established based on the PICOS framework: (i) Population—healthy soccer players; (ii) Intervention—SAQ training; (iii) Comparison condition (conventional training or traditional training); (iv) Outcome—physical performance (speed, agility, strength, etc.); (v) Study design—randomized controlled trials. The PEDro scale was employed to evaluate the methodological quality of each study, and a random-effects model was used for the meta-analysis. Results A total of 11 studies met the inclusion criteria for the systematic literature review. One study with low PEDro score was excluded, and one was excluded based on Cochrane bias risk assessment. Finally, 9 studies were included in the meta-analysis, comprising 498 soccer players. Overall, the results indicated a significant impact of SAQ training on physical qualities and dribbling speed among soccer players. Specifically, there was a moderate effect size for sprint performance (5m, 10m, 20m) (ES = 0.75; p < 0.01), change of direction ability (COD) (ES = 0.35; p < 0.001), power (vertical and horizontal jumps) (ES = 0.67; p < 0.01), while flexibility showed no significant impact (ES = 0.11; p > 0.05). Moreover, change-of-direction dribbling demonstrated a significant effect (ES = 0.58; p < 0.01). Conclusion Overall, SAQ training effectively enhances speed, COD, explosiveness, and change-of-direction dribbling specific performance in adolescent soccer players, particularly in sprinting. However, it does not have an advantage in improving flexibility. Further high-quality studies encompassing a broader range of exercises are needed to fully determine the effectiveness of SAQ training in improving other physical qualities and technical skills of soccer players, as well as ultimately enhancing match performance.

Longitudinal evaluation of circulating tumor DNA in patients undergoing neoadjuvant therapy for early breast cancer using a tumor-informed assay

Simulation and experimental verification of the precision finishing method for optical free-form surface segmentation

Optical free-form surfaces are often used to manufacture optical components such as lenses and mirrors, and free zone surface optical components are widely used in aerospace optics. To address the issues of low processing quality and overall efficiency in the machining of aluminum alloy free-form surfaces, an efficient numerical control machining method based on surface segmentation has been proposed. The segmentation of free-form surfaces is divided into two stages: the recognition of surface partitions and the determination of surface boundaries. Initially, the free-form surface is roughly classified into three types of regions: convex (planar), concave, and saddle-shaped, based on its curvature characteristics. The surface is then further segmented using the fuzzy c-means clustering algorithm. Subsequently, the Voronoi diagram algorithm is employed to construct the boundaries of the free-form surface ultimately. In a UG simulation, the segmentation machining method was compared with the conventional overall machining method, demonstrating a reduction in the machining path by 12.18% and machining time by 13.92%. Finally, experiments revealed a 12.28% reduction in machining path length and a 12.56% reduction in machining time using the segmentation machining method. This verifies the practicality of the free-form surface segmentation approach and proves that it can effectively enhance machining efficiency and quality.

Heparan sulfate regulates myofibroblast heterogeneity and function to mediate niche homeostasis during alveolar morphogenesis

Electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy for analysis of free radicals in zebrafish

Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) is an excellent choice for detecting free radicals in biological samples. Biologically relevant radicals are extremely short-lived and cannot be detected directly, emphasizing the need for an appropriate compound to generate stable adducts that can be measured by EPR. Spin trapping with nitrone compounds like 5,5-dimethyl-1-pyrroline N-oxide (DMPO) is a method commonly employed for detecting free radicals. However, due to the instability of nitrone radical adducts, using the cell-permeable 1-hydroxy-3-methoxycarbonyl-2,2,5,5-tetramethyl pyrrolidine (CMH) appears to be a more effective approach within biological tissues. Here, we compare the use of DMPO and CMH to detect the most abundant reactive oxygen species radical, superoxide (O2⋅-), in zebrafish and present an optimized protocol for performing EPR with a CMH spin probe in both zebrafish hearts and larvae. Together, our data suggest that EPR using the CMH probe is a reliable method to detect O2⋅- in zebrafish pathologies linked to oxidative stress, such as cardiovascular diseases.

Targeted delivery of TGF-β mRNA to murine lung parenchyma using one-component ionizable amphiphilic Janus Dendrimers

Spatial relationship between carbon emissions and ecosystem service value based on land use: A case study of the Yellow River Basin

Land use changes significantly impact both carbon emissions and ecosystem service value (ESV). However, few studies have been conducted on the spatial relationship between land use carbon emissions (LUCE) and ESV. Thus, focused on the Yellow River Basin (YRB), this study independently calculates carbon emissions from land use change (LUCE) and ecosystem service values (ESV) in the region. Utilizing spatial autocorrelation methods, we analyze the spatiotemporal pattern of LUCE and ESV and subsequently apply the bivariate spatial autocorrelation method to explore their spatial relationship. The results prove that: (1) The YRB’s LUCE has continuously increased, with construction land acting as the dominant carbon source and woodland acting as the main carbon sink. The LUCE in the YRB had a positive spatial autocorrelation. (2) The YRB’s ESV increased. Spatially, the ESV in the YRB showed a positive autocorrelation. (3) Both LUCE and ESV exhibited negative spatial autocorrelation, with predominant patterns of bivariate localized spatial autocorrelation identified as High-Low agglomeration (H-L) and Low-High agglomeration (L-H). Cities with the L-H pattern were primarily located in Qinghai Province and Inner Mongolia. In contrast, cities with the H-L pattern were mainly observed in the western section of Shandong and the northeastern region of Henan. The study revealed the negative impact of increased carbon emissions from land use on the value of ecosystem services, providing assistance in the development of relevant environmental policies and promoting sustainable development in the YRB.

Phosphorylation of FOXN3 by NEK6 promotes pulmonary fibrosis through Smad signaling

Impact of geopolitical risks and innovation on global defense stock return

This study conducts a comparative analysis of how geopolitical risk (GPR) and innovation impact stock returns in the defense industry based on data from 75 defense companies across 17 countries and 4 continents. With daily datasets spanning from January 1, 2014 to March 29, 2024, wavelet coherence and wavelet phase differences were used to conduct the analysis. The results revealed that innovation had a greater and more pronounced impact during the entire analysis period compared with the influence of GPR events. GPRs exerted an uneven and heterogeneous impact on global defense stocks and had a concentrated impact during events that generated uncertainty. Overall, we found significant time-varying dependence across a large number of companies at different time frequencies. The COVID-19 pandemic did not have a major impact on companies in the defense industry. Further, GPR events led to increased volatility during the Russia–Ukraine war, leading to increased uncertainty. In addition to the dominant role they play in the world defense market, US companies served as a robust hedge, especially from 2021 to 2022. Defense companies in the UK are more sensitive to both GPR events and innovation, followed by companies in Germany and France. Comparative analysis of the scalograms of China reveals a greater influence of innovation compared with GPR events. Thus, diversification opportunities have been extended from the defense industry in China, offering investors a promising way to capitalize on refuge opportunities during periods of disruption. To mitigate the global rearmament trend, we suggest alternative investment opportunities for different time horizons.

The physical roles of different posterior tissues in zebrafish axis elongation

Abstract Shaping embryonic tissues requires spatiotemporal changes in genetic and signaling activity as well as in tissue mechanics. Studies linking specific molecular perturbations to changes in the tissue physical state remain sparse. Here we study how specific genetic perturbations affecting different posterior tissues during zebrafish body axis elongation change their physical state, the resulting large-scale tissue flows, and posterior elongation. Using a custom analysis software to reveal spatiotemporal variations in tissue fluidity, we show that dorsal tissues are most fluid at the posterior end, rigidify anterior of this region, and become more fluid again yet further anteriorly. In the absence of notochord (noto mutants) or when the presomitic mesoderm is substantially reduced (tbx16 mutants), dorsal tissues elongate normally. Perturbations of posterior-directed morphogenetic flows in dorsal tissues (vangl2 mutants) strongly affect the speed of elongation, highlighting the essential role of dorsal cell flows in delivering the necessary material to elongate the axis.

qlifetable: An R package for constructing quarterly life tables

The big data revolution has greatly expanded the availability of microdata on vital statistics, providing researchers with unprecedented access to large and complex datasets on birth, death, migration, and population, sometimes even including exact dates of demographic events. This has led to the development of a novel methodology for estimating sub-annual life tables that offers new opportunities for the insurance industry, also potentially impacting on the management of pension funds and social security systems. This paper introduces the qlifetable package, an R implementation of this methodology. It begins by detailing how basic summary statistics are computed by the package from detailed individual records, including the length of age years, which should be observed as relative (subjective) to ensure congruency between age and calendar time when measuring exposure times and exact ages of individuals at events. This is a new result that compels the observation of time as relative in the disciplines of actuarial science, risk management and demography. Afterwards, the paper demonstrates the use of the package, which integrates a set of functions for estimating crude quarterly (and annual) death rates, calculating seasonal-ageing indexes (SAIs) and building quarterly life tables for a (general or insured) population by exploiting either microdata of dates of births and events or summary statistics.

Comparative studies of 2168 plasma proteins measured by two affinity-based platforms in 4000 Chinese adults

Abstract Proteomics offers unique insights into human biology and drug development, but few studies have directly compared the utility of different proteomics platforms. We measured plasma levels of 2168 proteins in 3976 Chinese adults using both Olink Explore and SomaScan platforms. The correlation of protein levels between platforms was modest (median rho = 0.29), with protein abundance and data quality parameters being key factors influencing correlation. For 1694 proteins with one-to-one matched reagents, 765 Olink and 513 SomaScan proteins had cis-pQTLs, including 400 with colocalising cis-pQTLs. Moreover, 1096 Olink and 1429 SomaScan proteins were associated with BMI, while 279 and 154 proteins were associated with risk of ischaemic heart disease, respectively. Addition of Olink and SomaScan proteins to conventional risk factors for ischaemic heart disease improved C-statistics from 0.845 to 0.862 (NRI: 12.2%) and 0.863 (NRI: 16.4%), respectively. These results demonstrate the utility of these platforms and could inform the design and interpretation of future studies.

Leveraging large language models for data analysis automation

Data analysis is constrained by a shortage of skilled experts, particularly in biology, where detailed data analysis and subsequent interpretation is vital for understanding complex biological processes and developing new treatments and diagnostics. One possible solution to this shortage in experts would be making use of Large Language Models (LLMs) for generating data analysis pipelines. However, although LLMs have shown great potential when used for code generation tasks, questions regarding the accuracy of LLMs when prompted with domain expert questions such as omics related data analysis questions, remain unanswered. To address this, we developed mergen , an R package that leverages LLMs for data analysis code generation and execution. We evaluated the performance of this data analysis system using various data analysis tasks for genomics. Our primary goal is to enable researchers to conduct data analysis by simply describing their objectives and the desired analyses for specific datasets through clear text. Our approach improves code generation via specialized prompt engineering and error feedback mechanisms. In addition, our system can execute the data analysis workflows prescribed by the LLM providing the results of the data analysis workflow for human review. Our evaluation of this system reveals that while LLMs effectively generate code for some data analysis tasks, challenges remain in executable code generation, especially for complex data analysis tasks. The best performance was seen with the self-correction mechanism, in which self-correct was able to increase the percentage of executable code when compared to the simple strategy by 22.5% for tasks of complexity 2. For tasks for complexity 3, 4 and 5, this increase was 52.5%, 27.5% and 15% respectively. Using a chi-squared test, it was shown that significant differences could be found using the different prompting strategies. Our study contributes to a better understanding of LLM capabilities and limitations, providing software infrastructure and practical insights for their effective integration into data analysis workflows.

Metallaphotoredox-catalyzed alkynylcarboxylation of alkenes with CO2 and alkynes for expedient access to β-alkynyl acids