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Abstract In museums’ dynamic and culturally rich environments, employee morale and productivity are crucial for achieving organizational goals. However, employees’ perception of organizational politics can undermine these objectives. Hence, this study investigates the buffering role of authentic leadership in mitigating perceptions of organizational politics and its subsequent effects on organizational citizenship behavior (OCBI and OCBO) and task-oriented performance among museum employees. This research involved 436 employees across six public sector museums in Pakistan, including supervisors and their immediate subordinates. Data were collected in four waves and analyzed using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM). The findings indicate that perceptions of organizational politics significantly negatively influence both organizational citizenship behaviors (OCBI and OCBO) and task-oriented performance. However, authentic leadership buffers these negative effects, significantly reducing perceptions of organizational politics and positively correlated with enhanced task-oriented performance and citizenship behavior. This study highlights the crucial role of authentic leadership in moderating the adverse impacts of organizational politics, fostering a positive work environment in museums, and enhancing both employee productivity and organizational outcomes. The insights from this research offer valuable implications for museum leaders aiming to enhance organizational performance through effective leadership practices.

Abstract In the knowledge economy, expert-led teams emerge as a pivotal strategy for organizations to secure and maintain a competitive edge. Expert leaders have been shown to have a significant influence on team effectiveness in numerous knowledge-intensive teams. Using an evolutionary game model, this study explores the fundamental mechanism in the value creation process by experts-led teams and finds out: First, experts’ role modeling, coaching, and professional authority motivate team members to contribute their efforts and abilities, leading to the 1 + 1 > 2 synergistic effect. Second, among various forms of team value creation, expert-led teams are a crucial organizational structure which enables stable and long-term enhancements in accumulating team human capital to improve productivity. Moreover, the greater the role played by expert leaders, the faster the evolution progresses of team members’ abilities. This study emphasizes the importance of using expert leaders in human resource management to promote the effectiveness of knowledge-intensive teams.

Abstract Traffic flow mobility on expressway plays an important role in urban development. With the emergent technologies, connected vehicles, including both connected automated vehicles (CAVs) and connected regular vehicles (CRVs), are equipped with connectivity features to improve efficiency of urban expressway in a mixed traffic scenario. Existing research indicates that without targeted management, the integration of CAVs and CRVs into regular vehicles (RVs) traffic can lead to a series of congestion issues. A potential solution lies in the implementation of dedicated lanes, each designated for specific vehicle types, which could alleviate traffic flow complications. Therefore, this paper proposes a dynamic optimal lane management strategy for multi-lane mixed traffic urban expressway, aimed at maximizing the whole discharge flow. To begin with, we present an analytical method to mathematically derive discharge flow of each lane type including mixed traffic lane, CAV/CRV dedicated lane, and RV dedicated lane, from the perspective of both traffic demand and traffic capacity. Then, taking a three-lane mixed traffic urban expressway as an application, we conduct a numerical analysis of the dynamic optimal lane management strategy, based on comparisons among eight distinct strategies, under varying factors of traffic demands, penetration rates of CAVs and CRVs, and allocation proportions of vehicles upstream assigned to mixed traffic lanes. The results validate the effectiveness of the analytical method proposed for lane management strategies. It also indicates that the aforementioned system factors have significant impacts on the dynamic optimal lane management strategy.

Abstract Due to China’s rapid urbanization, its residential areas and the residents in small towns exhibit dual and complex urbanization patterns and characteristics. The relevant national standards currently do not provide detailed guidance regarding the planning and construction of public service facilities and have failed to address the complexities of human–land urbanization patterns. Their “one-size-fits-all” approach toward facility programming has resulted in misalignment of facility supply and demand and in poor accessibility of public service facilities. As a result, many existing facilities are not used; frequently, facilities not included in the public service system are used, resulting in inefficient usage. Previously, the authors have investigated the functional programming of facilities, proposing a “required + optional item” public service facility guidance-control system based on the actual needs of residents, which addresses the issue of what types of facilities should be provided to residents. Building upon prior research, this study focuses on the spatial layout of facilities and explores the logic of suitable life circle planning in small towns in China. Specifically, this study extracts indicators such as tolerance distance, usage frequency, and functional demand to assess residents’ “distance sensitivity” in accessing facilities. It uncovers the differentiated characteristics of distance sensitivity among residents at different stages of urbanization regarding rural and non-rural facilities. The study proposes the determining principles for a life circle–layered partitioning mode in small towns and develops a model framework for suitable life circle. It defines the life circle partitioning and layers for residents at different stages of urbanization. Based on this framework, this study establishes a fundamental principle for preventing dissatisfaction among residents with low service expectations, proposing a “basic assurance + optimization enhancement” plan for life circle layers in rural- and urban-biased residential areas. This study addresses the uneven urbanization levels within small towns, revealing the spatial hierarchical relationships between facilities in urban- and rural-biased residential areas. Guided by the principle of “control + guidance,” it aims to offer local policymakers more flexibility, clarifying and correcting past “one-size-fits-all” approaches to facility planning. The goal is to elevate the standard of public services in small towns by providing methods of optimization and theoretical foundations for renewal practices and the refinement of construction-related regulations.

Abstract Since the establishment of the green patent system in 2012, China has promoted significant advancements in green technologies in areas such as energy conservation, emission reduction and clean energy through accelerated patent examination mechanisms, policy incentives, and the construction of an intellectual property protection framework. However, despite the notable growth in the number of green patents, China’s green patent system still faces numerous challenges, particularly in terms of examination scope, examination standards, patent quality enhancement, and the participation of private entities. In addressing these challenges, China can draw on the valuable aspects of the green patent systems in the United Kingdom, the United States, Japan, and South Korea to gradually improve its own green patent system. In the future, China’s green patent system should progressively shift its focus from the growth in patent quantity to the enhancement of patent quality, ensuring the depth of technological innovation and its market value. Only in this way can China better achieve its “dual carbon goal” and provide a viable “Chinese solution” for global climate governance.

Abstract This paper provides a comprehensive examination of thought analysis as a contemporary practice within philosophical inquiry, exploring its theoretical foundations, methodological approaches, and practical implications. Rooted in classical philosophical traditions yet acutely relevant to modern life, thought analysis—officially conceptualized by Tianqun Pan—serves as a bridge between knowledge and action, addressing the cognitive dissonance that often hinders personal growth and rational decision-making. Through an analysis of historical and recent sources, including case studies from the laboratory of thought analysis at Nanjing University, we investigate whether logical reasoning is an innate human capacity or developed through education and practice, highlighting the importance of fostering logical skills in thought analysis. Ethical considerations, such as trust between analyst and visitor and the principle of value neutrality, are critically examined to underscore the necessity of maintaining visitor autonomy and preventing bias. We explore the relationship between thought analysis and therapeutic practices, emphasizing that while thought analysis is not inherently therapeutic, it possesses qualities that can lead to psychological relief and personal development through the clarification of thought. Comparative analyses with Logic-based Therapy and Logotherapy illustrate the unique position of thought analysis within philosophical practice. By reframing thought analysis as a form of humanistic care rather than clinical therapy, the paper advocates for its role in promoting clear thinking, self-awareness, and ethical living, thereby contributing to individual well-being and social harmony. Ultimately, the study affirms thought analysis as a transformative practice that aligns philosophical inquiry with practical life, empowering individuals to achieve greater coherence between their beliefs and actions.

Abstract There are mixed findings on the impact of women directors on board (WOB) on corporate financial performance (CFP). To reconcile these mixed findings, we propose that WOB could influence CFP in the following two ways. On the one hand, WOB could enhance CFP by leading more CSR activities. On the other hand, WOB may weaken the CSR-CFP relationship due to expectations on their role-playing. These two effects go in opposite directions, and their relative strength determines the WOB-CFP relationship. Using Chinese listed firms from 2011 to 2020 as samples, the results lend strong support to these two effects. And WOB will have a positive effect on CFP only if its moderating effect on the CSR-CFP relationship has been controlled for. Additional tests show that neither critical mass nor qualification of women directors matters in explaining variations of CFP in Chinese firms. The contributions and limitations are discussed at the end of this study.

Abstract The utilization of accolade awards to motivate reviewers is widespread, but their effectiveness remains uncertain. We aim to explore how receiving an accolade award affects reviewers’ subsequent number of reviews. In contrast to small-scale, unrepresentative experiments, we perform a large-scale, global, and all-disciplinary analysis based on quasi-natural experiments. By integrating the Publons, ORCID, MAG, SciSciNet, and OpenAlex databases, a large dataset that tracks the reviewers’ annual number of reviews and their bibliometric indicators is compiled, encompassing 179,794 individuals. Among them, 6605 individuals who receive the “Publons Global Peer Review Award” in 2018 are constituted as the experimental group. Those non-winners are then matched to form a control group. Using propensity score matching (PSM), 711 and 762 reviewers are matched as the experimental and control groups respectively. An analysis employing the difference-in-differences (DiD) method is conducted to examine the impact of an accolade award on reviewers’ subsequent number of reviews. It is found that, following the receipt of an accolade award, reviewers, on average, reviews about four fewer manuscripts, with the reduction exhibiting a V-shaped pattern. Additional analyses are conducted to examine how individual differences and socio-economic factors influence the awarding effects. Besides, we analyze the mechanisms underlying the awarding effect and propose strategies to motivate reviewers. In brief, the sharp decrease in marginal utility of accolades, the voluntary nature of peer review, and the unexpected properties of accolade awards are the potential mechanisms that generate the negative effect. The academic community should reassess the existing incentive strategies for reviewers.

Abstract The study empirically examines the impact of firm digital transformation (DT) on the performance of Chinese-listed enterprises in the areas of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) from 2013 to 2022. We utilized OLS, IV 2SLS causal mediating effect, and moderating effect models to analyze the linkages and deep mechanisms between corporate DT and ESG performance. The empirical findings demonstrate that (i) DT has an effectively positive effect on the performance of firms’ ESG; (ii) DT enhances firms’ ESG performance by enhancing information transparency (TRANS), fostering green innovation (Green), and strengthening internal control (Inter) mechanisms; moreover, (iii) According to the study, common institutional ownership (CIO) effectively facilitates the positive effects of the DT impact on the ESG performance of listed enterprises, and firms’ subjective perception of economic policy uncertainty (SEPU) negatively influences the effect of digital change on firms’ ESG performance; (iv) the impact of DT on ESG performance is more significant in the listed companies of western region and state-owned enterprises. Our findings provide valuable insights into whether and how DT affects the firms’ ESG performance, providing practical recommendations for corporate managers and government decision-making agencies.

Abstract This study explores the effectiveness of Data-Driven Learning (DDL) in teaching noun collocations to pre-tertiary learners in Hubei Province, China, using the online corpus tool ‘Corpusmate’. Acknowledging the importance and challenge of mastering collocations in learning a foreign language, this study focuses on the effects of DDL on pre-tertiary learners, an area less examined previously due to the complexities associated with using corpus tools. Conducted over two months, the research employed pre-tests, post-tests, and delayed post-tests to measure learners’ comprehension and retention of noun collocations. Additionally, a questionnaire was distributed to gather feedback on learners’ experiences with the DDL approach and ‘Corpusmate’. Results indicated that the experimental group, which received DDL training, showed significant improvements in test scores compared to the control group, which used traditional resources. The experimental group’s scores remained high in the delayed post-test, suggesting that the DDL approach facilitated long-term retention of collocational knowledge, although a notable proportion of learners expressed neutral or negative perceptions of the DDL activities. These results highlight the need for further investigation into the attitudes of the participants. Overall, most participants provided positive feedback on the use of ‘Corpusmate’ in learning noun collocations. These results advocate for the incorporation of corpus consultation into language teaching practices. The study underscores that with appropriate training and tools like ‘Corpusmate’, the DDL approach can potently aid in the sustained learning of complex language elements, such as collocations, even for younger learners.

Abstract This research explores the driving pathways for building a high-level rural e-commerce entrepreneurial ecosystem, providing valuable insights for responding to global policies promoting rural entrepreneurship and innovation and accelerating rural industrial development. However, existing studies on the “rural e-commerce entrepreneurial ecosystem” lack in-depth exploration. Based on the CAS (Complex Adaptive System) theory and TOE (Technological, Organizational, and Environmental) framework, we conducted a comprehensive case study across 31 Chinese provinces, focusing on seven key indicators within three dimensions: technology, organization, and environment. Employing the Fuzzy Set Qualitative Comparative Analysis (fsQCA) method, we examined key factors and driving pathways influencing the establishment of successful rural e-commerce entrepreneurial ecosystems in China. The main findings of this study are as follows: (1) The construction of a rural e-commerce entrepreneurial ecosystem is not driven by a single element but is the result of the combined effects of multiple facets and factors. (2) The number of leading agricultural enterprises and the establishment of e-commerce cooperatives are critical factors promoting the high-level construction of rural e-commerce entrepreneurial ecosystems. (3) Typical driving pathways for advancing the construction of rural e-commerce entrepreneurial ecosystems can be categorized into three types: technology-organization-government-driven, organization-environment-driven, and holistic synergy-driven. The research findings are instrumental in guiding the government to formulate systematic policies that support the development of leading agricultural enterprises and e-commerce cooperatives. Additionally, these policies should be tailored to the specific characteristics of different regions to create differentiated driving paths. Implementing these measures can effectively promote rural e-commerce entrepreneurship.

Abstract Based on a theoretical analysis of the impact of the innovative city pilot policy on manufacturing enterprises’ import behavior of intermediate goods, this paper performs a quasi-natural experiment via a multi-period differences-in-differences (DID) model with China’s innovative city pilot policy as the object. This study systematically evaluates the impact of the innovative city pilot policy on importing intermediate goods by local manufacturing enterprises. The empirical results show that implementing the innovative city pilot policy significantly increases the quantity, variety and quality of intermediate goods imported by local manufacturing enterprises. These conclusions remain valid even after a series of robustness tests. Impact mechanism tests indicate that obtaining government subsidies, alleviating financing constraints and reducing institutional transaction costs are three important channels through which the innovative city pilot policy promotes the import of intermediate goods by manufacturing enterprises. Furthermore, additional research reveals that the impact of the innovative city pilot policy on intermediate goods imports exhibits significant heterogeneity in enterprise size, age, ownership and trade mode. This study’s findings provide a new perspective for evaluating and exploring the performance of the innovative city policy and China’s foreign trade transformation and upgrading.

Abstract Rapid urbanization has resulted in the conversion of different land types, leading to a serious disruption of the balance of ecosystems, and the contradiction between land use and ecological security becomes increasingly severe. As a key factor affecting ecosystem services (ESs), improving the urban land green use efficiency (ULGUE) can effectively mitigate the decline in the ecosystem services function. This study tried to verify the profound impact of land use on ESs by measuring the coupling coordination degree (CCD) between ULGUE and ESs from the perspective of coupling coordination. However, the traditional CCD model suffers from volatility and non-comparable confidence levels in results. For this background, this study adopted the improved CCD model to measure the association between ULGUE and ESs in the Yangtze River Economic Belt (YREB). Also, a comprehensive spatial evolution of the CCD was further explored. The main conclusions are as follows: (a) The overall level of ULGUE in YREB showed an increasing trend with the distribution of ULGUE in most cities ranging from 0.71 to 1.00, showing a higher level overall and the spatial distribution character of “small aggregation, large distribution”; (b) The ESs of YREB from 2005 to 2020 demonstrated a decreasing trend and majority of cities’ current ecological protection efforts are lagging behind the extent of ecosystem damage caused by human activities; (c) The overall average CCD of YREB was largely at basically balanced level and the average CCD change ranges from 0.38 to 0.45 between 2005 and 2020, but the overall CCD had a strong spatial correlation strength. (4) To some extent, the improved CCD model solved the problems of volatility and credibility based on the traditional CCD results, which have strong rationality and scientific validity. Identifying the coupling and coordination characteristics and mechanisms can effectively provide theoretical support for the sustainable development of watersheds.

Abstract The paper develops a down-and-out call option to evaluate the equity of a life insurer. The COVID-19 pandemic challenges captured by the premature feature of the down-and-out call option are also identified as structural breaks incorporated into the contingent claim option. Hedging, shown by the guarantee cover ratio, reflects the insurer’s ability to meet policy commitments. Reinsurance, indicated by the risk retention ratio, distributes insurance risk between the insurer and reinsurer. The insurer engages in those practices aligned with Sustainable Development Goal 3 (SDG 3: good health and well-being). The main findings are as follows. The COVID-19 pandemic harms policyholder protection and deviates from SDG 3 due to financial instability. However, strategic hedging, reinsurance, and government capital injections enhance policy assurances, achieving SDG 3 by increasing payments to policyholders and improving financial stability. Moreover, the risk retention ratio increases during severe COVID-19 periods but decreases with more government capital injections, which can substitute for risk retention. Policy implications suggest that policymakers can mitigate crisis impacts on insurer capacity to fulfill commitments, thereby enhancing life insurance stability and well-being aligned with SDG 3.

Abstract In a context characterized by the dual issues of educational inequality and problems with fertility, the internal relationship between these two factors requires further in-depth exploration. On the basis of data drawn from the China Family Panel Studies (CFPS) from 2010 to 2018, this paper investigates whether “super high schools” in cities represent a form of educational inequality, uses a combination of a two-way fixed effect model with the instrumental variable method to discuss the influence of this situation on family fertility and the corresponding transmission mechanism, develops a proportional risk regression model, and expands our understanding of the influence of educational inequality on the second-child birth interval. This study reveals that educational inequality significantly suppresses the number of family births and that the paths of action associated with this effect include both the explicit and implicit costs of education. The inhibitory effect of educational inequality on the number of family births varies according to urban grade, urban or rural classification, and the education levels attained by women. In addition to decreasing the number of family births, educational inequality increases the second-child birth interval. This paper not only enriches related research on family multichild behavior but also provides an educational reference for attempts to address the issue of continuously low fertility rates in China and establish a connection between population and educational economics.

Abstract Film color and editing are crucial elements in filmmaking, posing significant questions about their effective use in eliciting emotional responses from viewers. While prior research has explored the impacts of color and editing independently, their combined effect remains largely unexplored, leaving the open question of how these elements together affect emotional perception. This study investigates the combined impact of film color and editing on emotion perception, utilizing both subjective behavioral scales and objective functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) techniques. It employs two experiments with a two-factor design to assess the interactions between film color (colored and black-and-white) and film editing (fearful, neutral, and happy levels) on emotional perceptions. Under the direction of a professional filmmaker, a series of film sequences was created for six experimental conditions. In Experiment 1, 117 participants watched the film sequences and subjectively rated the emotional valence of the neutral face in the sequence, uncovering a significant interaction effect between film color and editing on the valence rating of the neutral face. In Experiment 2, 67 participants watched similar film sequences in an MRI scanner to analyze their brain activation patterns. Distinct activations were identified in regions including the insula, anterior cingulate cortices (ACC), and middle frontal gyrus, where a region-of-interest (ROI) analysis of the left ACC revealed an interaction effect on neural responses. These results underscore the integral role of color and editing in influencing viewers’ emotion perception using two types of measurements. This research provides novel insights into the behavioral and neural responses to filmmaking elements that underpin film reception and offers practical implications for filmmakers, encouraging a more holistic approach to considering color and editing to further enrich the audience’s emotional experiences at the pre-production stage of filmmaking.

Abstract With the advent of the intelligence era, the empowerment of technology in education has triggered changes in the forms and concepts of teaching and learning. Virtual reality (VR), as a potential educational technology, has been widely used in teaching, providing students with almost real learning experiences. In particular, practice-centered pre-service teacher education is in greater need of VR. This case study applied and improved the Extended Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT2) as a theoretical foundation to explore pre-service teachers’ intention and behavior of adopting the VR training system. A sample of 278 Chinese pre-service teachers was collected by implementing the partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) via the Smart-PLS software. Study results reveal that pre-service teachers’ behavioral intention of adopting the VR training system is positively impacted by self-efficacy, effort expectancy, social influence, performance expectancy, facilitating conditions, and hedonic motivation, ranked from highest to lowest. Their use behavior with the training system is positively impacted by behavioral intention, facilitating conditions, and habit. Accordingly, this study presents suggestions for higher education institutions and VR education system developers on how to use and design VR training systems in pre-service teacher education through model construction, model validation, and conclusion analysis.

Abstract Brain injury is the leading cause of mortality among patients who survive cardiac arrest (CA). Clinical studies have shown that the presence of post-CA hypoxic hepatitis or pre-CA liver disease is associated with increased mortality and inferior neurological recovery. In our in vivo global cerebral ischemia model, we observed a larger infarct area, elevated tissue injury scores, and increased intravascular CD45+ cell adhesion in reperfused brains with simultaneous hepatic ischemia than in those without it. In the ex vivo brain normothermic machine perfusion (NMP) model, we demonstrated that addition of a functioning liver to the brain NMP circuit significantly reduced post-CA brain injury, increased neuronal viability, and improved electrocortical activity. Furthermore, significant alterations were observed in both the transcriptome and metabolome in the presence or absence of hepatic ischemia. Our study highlights the crucial role of the liver in the pathogenesis of post-CA brain injury.

Abstract Short videos have become a powerful medium in health communication. This study explores the information needs and satisfaction of Chinese urban youth regarding short health videos, guided by the KANO model. The research was conducted in four stages: text mining, online survey, demand analysis, and emotional strategy analysis. During the text mining stage, we used GooSeeker software to extract 26,108 health-tagged short video entries from Douyin and identified 21 unique themes through a collinear network analysis. In the online survey stage, we gathered data on urban youth’s preferences for these themes. Using the KANO model and Better-Worse analysis in the demand analysis stage, we categorized health video demands and gained insights into the preferred content. In the emotional strategy analysis stage, we examined how different emotional strategies like appeals to fear and hope influenced content effectiveness. Findings show that content related to health science, tea drinking, popular news, and food safety significantly enhances satisfaction. Conversely, information on refuting rumors, epidemic prevention, and control, as well as authoritative views, tends to lower satisfaction, possibly due to a trust crisis caused by a mismatch between demand and supply. This study suggests that content creators can boost engagement and satisfaction by focusing on preferred themes. It also highlights the varying impacts of information sources and emotional strategies on the health video preferences of Chinese urban youth. The insights from this research provide a foundation for user-centric content creation and platform development in health communication.

Abstract The global pandemic has dramatically reshaped public discourse, with social media emerging as a pivotal platform for these discussions. This study delves into evolving sentiments, emotions, and prevalent topics in online discussions spanning the years 2020, 2021, and 2022, drawing from a dataset of 2.65 million tweets from the Twitter Platform. A multifaceted approach that combines quantitative and qualitative methods are developed for dissecting evolving discourses, with a particular focus on the lens of nationalism. The quantitative part disassembling sentiment & emotion, topics, and Co-Occurrence Network yields a nuanced understanding of the textual content. A qualitative theoretical analysis named Evolving Discourse Framework Analysis are designed to unravel the textual discourse. Study results in the development of an adaptable framework. Findings expose nationalist orientations and the framing elements present within online public discourse, which are categorized into three distinct frames: ‘feeling,’ ‘identity,’ and ‘action.’ Importantly, the ‘feeling’ frame interconnects with the ‘identity’ frame, ultimately shaping responses within the ‘action’ frame. The frames shine a light on a complex and interconnected web of nationalist narratives that exist within the online sphere, subtly influencing public opinion and behavior. This study serves as a reminder that beneath the surface of seemingly unified global discourse, there exists a segmented world, ripe for further exploration and understanding.

Abstract In cross-regional cultural interactions, the frequent and controversial practice of cultural borrowing has attracted attention. According to the different relative statuses and comparative directions of the cultural subjects, cultural borrowing can be divided into strong-to-weak (weak-to-strong) cultural borrowing between subjects with strong (weak) status and subjects with weak (strong) status in cultural interactions, as well as equal cultural borrowing between subjects with equal status in cultural interactions. After the concept and types of cultural borrowing are defined, a multisituation experimental method is used to confirm the internal mechanisms and effect boundaries of consumers’ cultural borrowing acceptance. The results of five experiments based on over a thousand subjects indicate that different types of cultural borrowing (strong-to-weak, equal, weak-to-strong) arouse consumers’ perceived cultural threat, thereby reducing their acceptance of cultural borrowing to varying degrees. The influence of different types of cultural borrowing on perceived cultural threat is moderated by the degree of incongruent use and reality of the presentation of the borrowed culture; the influence of perceived cultural threat on cultural borrowing acceptance is moderated by the positioning of the borrowing subjects and the degree of identity in the relationship. By exploring cultural borrowing and consumer acceptance issues in the field of consumption through a series of experiments, this study effectively reveals the differentiated impacts and underlying mechanisms of different types of cultural borrowing on consumers’ acceptance responses.

Abstract Intravenous thrombolysis using recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) remains the primary treatment for patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS). However, the mechanism of tPA-related hemorrhagic transformation (HT) remains poorly understood. Elevation of histidine-rich glycoprotein (HRG) expression was detected by nano-liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry at 1 h following tPA infusion as compared to baseline prior to tPA infusion (discovery cohort, n = 10), which was subsequently confirmed in a validation cohort (n = 157) by ELISA. Surprisingly, no elevation of HRG was detected in individuals who subsequently developed HT. During in vitro experiments, HRG reduced neutrophil NETosis, inflammatory cytokine production, and migration across the blood–brain barrier induced by tPA. In a photothrombotic murine AIS model, HRG administration ameliorated HT with delayed thrombolysis, by inhibiting neutrophil immune infiltration and downregulating pro-inflammatory signaling pathways. Neutrophil depletion or NETosis inhibition also alleviated HT, whereas HRG siRNA treatment exacerbated HT. In conclusion, fluctuations in HRG levels may reflect tPA therapy and its associated HT. The inhibitory effect of HRG on neutrophils may counteract tPA-induced immune abnormalities and HT in patients with AIS.

Abstract Online health communities (OHCs) are encouraging doctors to engage in prosocial behaviors to promote sustainable development of OHCs and benefit the user base, which may further influence doctor-level performance. However, it is unclear how prosocial behavior and its intensity affect doctor-level performance, such as doctor-patient relationship, online reputation, and online demand. The purpose of this study is to test the effects of prosocial behavior and its intensity on doctor-patient relationship, online reputation, and online demand. We conducted a series of empirical analyses on 103,208 doctor-level samples from a leading OHC in China. Initially, we applied the propensity score matching (PSM) method to obtain a more balanced sample, then, we employed a negative binomial regression model to analyze the sample after PSM, and finally, we performed a robustness test using a zero-inflated negative binomial regression model and changing the time window. Our research findings indicate that prosocial behavior positively affects the doctor-patient relationship, doctors’ online reputation, and online demand. The intensity of prosocial behavior has an inverted U-shaped relationship with the doctor-patient relationship, online reputation, and online demand. The doctor’s clinical title negatively moderates the effect of prosocial behavior on the doctor-patient relationship and online demand. Therefore, OHC operators can draw on our findings to encourage more doctors to engage in prosocial behavior while suggesting they consider the role of the intensity of prosocial behavior and clinical title.

Abstract The home-rearing environment (HRE) is significantly related to preschoolers’ academic and behavioral development. Children’s screen time has become an increasingly important aspect of the family environment in today’s digital age. However, few studies explored screen time’s indirect role in the relationships between HRE and children’s development. This study was conducted in three provinces of China, and 825 child-parent dyads participated. The results indicated that a high-quality HRE is directly associated with better language and cognitive skills, self-regulation, self-efficacy, and fewer problem behaviors in children. Screen time has an indirect role in this relationship, suggesting that a better HRE associated with lower screen time improves children’s outcomes. However, the HRE did not show a significant indirect role through screen time related to children’s problem behavior, indicating other factors may play a role. The study highlights the importance of fostering enriching home environments and managing screen time to support children’s development.

Abstract Addressing the interconnectedness of oil prices and foreign exchange rates poses a substantial challenge and raises significant questions within economic research. Existing studies reveal a fragmented understanding of the dynamics between these crucial variables, highlighting a need for deeper investigation. This study extends previous research by employing the time-varying parameter VAR extended joint connectedness model and using the baseline approach called the generalized connectedness approach. Our research findings indicate that exchange rates and crude oil prices exhibit pairwise and total connectedness, varying over time. Furthermore, this connectedness experiences substantial increases during severe crisis periods. We uncover that exchange rates and crude oil prices not only share a dynamic, pairwise, and total connectedness but these results are stronger for oil exporting countries. However, these methods yield inconsistent results for various countries. Moreover, there is compelling evidence that fluctuations in exchange rates and oil prices can cause bi-directional and time-dependent shocks.

Abstract How to prevent and resolve COVID-19 pandemic and similar public health crisis is a significant research topic. Although research on science literacy has been involved in dealing with public health crisis, there is a lack of empirical tests between the mass public’s science literacy and co-production during COVID-19 pandemic. With the empirical evidence from 140 cities in China, the study finds that the public’s science literacy significantly promotes co-production in the battle against pandemic. Specifically, for every 1% increase in the mass public’s science literacy in the city, co-production increased by 14.2%. Meanwhile, regional education level and local government capacity can expand the positive role of the public’s science literacy on co-production to fight against COVID-19 pandemic. In addition, the performance of the public’s science literacy on co-production against pandemic shows heterogeneity at different stages of pandemic prevention, in different regions, and in cities of different scales. This study complemented the gaps in existing research on science literacy and co-production and empirically verified the potential positive role of the public’s science literacy in pandemic prevention and control. Furthermore, it provided new ideas for improving the effectiveness of public co-production in public health crisis governance.

Abstract Recent scholarship has argued for a Western basis for the Judge Dee Mysteries, a detective fiction series by Sinologist Robert van Gulik (1910–1967) set in Tang China. But these studies primarily focus on how Chinese elements are recreated to cater to Anglophone readers’ tastes, neglecting to discuss their actual Western origins in any detail. This paper will make the attempt by focusing on one of the novels, The Haunted Monastery, to investigate how Gothic Taoism is projected through the internal organization of the semantic universe (characters, settings, and conflicts) in the multiple worlds of this detective fiction. It observes how van Gulik recreates anti-religious conventions in the traditional Western Gothic novel and in Chinese courtroom fiction. This artistic innovation highlights the dual facets of Taoism in the story, as it navigates between the realms of crime and faith. On the one hand, it faces the purely divine world, while on the other, it faces the secular world dominated by limitless desire.

Abstract Physiological regulation of transgene expression is a major challenge in gene therapy. Onasemnogene abeparvovec (Zolgensma®) is an approved adeno-associated virus (AAV) vector gene therapy for infants with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), however, adverse events have been observed in both animals and patients following treatment. The construct contains a native human survival motor neuron 1 (hSMN1) transgene driven by a strong, cytomegalovirus enhancer/chicken β-actin (CMVen/CB) promoter providing high, ubiquitous tissue expression of SMN. We developed a second-generation AAV9 gene therapy expressing a codon-optimized hSMN1 transgene driven by a promoter derived from the native hSMN1 gene. This vector restored SMN expression close to physiological levels in the central nervous system and major systemic organs of a severe SMA mouse model. In a head-to-head comparison between the second-generation vector and a benchmark vector, identical in design to onasemnogene abeparvovec, the 2nd-generation vector showed better safety and improved efficacy in SMA mouse model.

Abstract Profit distribution in sequential innovation is a crucial yet relatively unexplored area of empirical research. With novel cross-section data from the game live-streaming industry, we are the first to assess the contribution shared by initial and follow-on innovators empirically. Unlike the complex innovation paths of patents, the copyright structure within the game live-streaming industry is clear and concise, enabling direct measurement of innovation value. At the industry’s average level, the share stands at 1:2 between game producers and streamers. This measurement remains robust even after controlling for income levels and distinguishing between professionals and amateurs. Nevertheless, significant heterogeneity exists across different game genres. We suggest that a balanced distribution scheme between initial and follow-on innovators should seriously consider their contribution shares.

Abstract Chinese consumers have shown a strong preference for foreign brands (FBs) for many years. However, in recent years, rising patriotism has spurred Chinese consumers to source locally, indicating a shift in preference for patriotic brands (PBs). FBs operating in the world’s second-largest market are now framing their marketing strategies to appeal more to Chinese consumers. This study examines two culturally mixed co-branded product (CMCP) framing strategies: foreign × host culture (FB × PB) and host × foreign culture (PB × FB). The results show that the effects of product fit and cultural congruence on co-branding attitude for PB × FB is stronger than that of FB × PB, and the influence of brand fit on co-branding attitude for FB × PB is stronger than that of PB × FB. Additionally, the impact of the co-branding attitude on cultural sensitivity was significant for PB × FB, whereas that on product quality was significant for FB × PB. Furthermore, the effects of co-branding attitude on purchase probability were significant for both types of CMCP framing (FB × PB

Abstract This paper examines the application and evolution of philosophical practice in China, which employs philosophical principles and methods to facilitate insights and address life’s complexities. We aim to bridge the knowledge gap regarding the trajectory and contemporary landscape of China’s philosophical practice and its impact on individual and societal flourishing. Guided by the research question, “How has philosophical practice evolved in China, and what are its challenges and future prospects?” this study adopts a qualitative research methodology, including a literature review, historical analysis, and case studies from Chinese philosophical communities. Findings indicate a burgeoning growth of philosophical practice in China, with traditional Chinese philosophies being adapted to provide practical guidance for contemporary issues. The spread of philosophical practice communities across China reflects a growing embrace of these practices. This paper outlines the hurdles and prospects for philosophical practice, pinpointing opportunities for further research and cross-cultural engagement. The insights furnished by this study offer a framework for scholars, practitioners, and policymakers to enhance philosophical practice’s role in personal growth and societal well-being, both within China and internationally.

Abstract Accurately predicting and selecting patients who can benefit from targeted or immunotherapy is crucial for precision therapy. Trophoblast cell surface antigen 2 (Trop2) has been extensively investigated as a pan-cancer biomarker expressed in various tumours and plays a crucial role in tumorigenesis through multiple signalling pathways. Our laboratory successfully developed two 68Ga-labelled nanobody tracers that can rapidly and specifically target Trop2. Of the two tracers, [68Ga]Ga-NOTA-T4, demonstrated excellent pharmacokinetics in preclinical mouse models and a beagle dog. Moreover, [68Ga]Ga-NOTA-T4 immuno-positron emission tomography (immunoPET) allowed noninvasive visualisation of Trop2 heterogeneous and differential expression in preclinical solid tumour models and ten patients with solid tumours. [68Ga]Ga-NOTA-T4 immunoPET could facilitate clinical decision-making through patient stratification and response monitoring during Trop2-targeted therapies.

Abstract China’s East–West Computing Resources Transmission Project (EWCRT Project) is a unique and innovative path toward developing China’s green digital economy. The EWCRT Project consists of building transregional digital infrastructure, including eight data center hubs and 10 data center clusters across China. Our estimations indicate that the EWCRT Project could result in a reduction of 2125 metric tons (Mt) of CO2 between 2020 and 2050. Combined with other improvement measures, such as an increase in power usage effectiveness (PUE) and a boost in the use of green electricity in these data centers, the project could result in a reduction of 9500 Mt of carbon emissions over the next three decades. Recognizing the heterogeneous makeup of data centers in general, it is crucial to identify diverse strategies that can transform each into “green engines” for the digital economy. Therefore, in this study, we use fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) to characterize the complex conditions of different data center configurations. By doing so, we highlight differentiated strategies for data centers to support the greening of the digital economy.

Abstract Cytosolic DNA sensors are a group of pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) that vary in structures, molecular mechanisms, and origins but share a common function to detect intracellular microbial DNA and trigger the innate immune response like type 1 interferon production and autophagy. Cytosolic DNA sensors have been proven as indispensable defenders against the invasion of many pathogens; however, growing evidence shows that self-DNA misplacement to cytoplasm also frequently occurs in non-infectious circumstances. Accumulation of cytosolic DNA causes improper activation of cytosolic DNA sensors and triggers an abnormal autoimmune response, that significantly promotes pathological progression. Neurodegenerative diseases are a group of neurological disorders characterized by neuron loss and still lack effective treatments due to a limited understanding of pathogenesis. But current research has found a solid relationship between neurodegenerative diseases and cytosolic DNA sensing pathways. This review summarizes profiles of several major cytosolic DNA sensors and their common adaptor protein STING. It also discusses both the beneficial and detrimental roles of cytosolic DNA sensors in the genesis and progression of neurodegenerative diseases.

Abstract As museums continue to play an increasingly significant role in the preservation, innovation, and dissemination of cultural heritages, the products sold in their souvenir shops have become a vital carrier of cultural and creative industries. The creativity of these products has drawn intensive attention from various industries. However, the evaluation of museum products’ creativity still lacks objectivity, scientific rigour, and systematisation. This study aims to construct a contextual and comprehensive measurement model to evaluate the creativity of products purchased in souvenir shops affiliated with urban historical museums in China. Based on the literature, ten related hypotheses were introduced, and a conceptual model was illustrated. Six relevant dimensions and 28 corresponding indicators were identified, and then a 7-point Likert-styled questionnaire was developed. An online survey was conducted, which invited 931 participants to take part. Among them, 708 responses are valid (rate 76.05%). The overall reliability of the survey is 0.96 (Cronbach’s α). Then, exploratory factor analysis, confirmatory factor analysis and a structural equation modelling analysis using SPSS and SmartPLS were conducted. The results supported most hypotheses proposed by this study and confirmed the validity of the museum product creativity measurement (MPCM). The validated instrument comprises five dimensions: Affect, Usefulness, Aesthetics, Cultural Values and Novelty, with a total of 21 indicators. Additionally, the findings revealed that Aesthetics mediates Affect, and Cultural Values mediate Usefulness. Moreover, a negative moderating effect of Educational Level on the perception of Cultural Values was detected.

Abstract Family processes such as maternal parenting and family screen exposure are significantly related to children’s gains in behavioral self-regulation, but the potential mechanism of these relations remains unknown. In this study, we investigated how maternal depression is associated with children’s behavioral self-regulation through the mediating role of maternal supportive parenting and children’s family screen time. A total sample of 657 Chinese children and their mothers was recruited. Results from structural equation models indicated that supportive parenting and screen time partially mediated the effect of maternal depression on children’s behavioral self-regulation by the sequential, after controlling for child demographic variables. Furthermore, supportive parenting played a partially mediating role in associations between maternal depression and children’s self-regulation. The findings provide insights into parenting practices for early childhood development in the Chinese family environment.

Abstract Conduct disorders (CDs) are common in juvenile justice cases, but their prevalence varies across regions. It is useful to help people comprehend the incidence and risk factors for CDs in the judicial environment. To determine the prevalence of CDs among juvenile delinquents in China and explore the risk factors for CDs in terms of demographic characteristics, individual characteristics, and social environmental factors. A total of 545 male juvenile delinquents and 297 typically developed adolescents from China were recruited for this study. The Conduct Disorder Screening Form was used to assess the symptoms of CD, and related measurements, including the Demographic Questionnaire, Short-Egna Minnen av Barndoms Uppfostran for Chinese (s-EMBU-C), the Short Form of the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire (CTQ-SF), the Parental Monitoring Scale, the Deviant Peer Affiliation Scale, the Inventory of Callous-Unemotional Traits (ICU), the Self-Control Scale (SCS), and the Moral Disengagement Scale (MDS), were carried out. Among the juvenile delinquents, 58.7% met the symptoms of CD, with adolescent-onset CD accounting for 90.94% of these cases. There was no statistically significant difference in the incidence of CD between the criminal group and the illegal group, but the criminal group scored higher on aggression than the illegal group. The adolescents with CDs differed from the typically developed adolescents in demographic characteristics, parenting style, individual characteristics, and deviant peer affiliation. Discriminant analysis revealed that deviant peer affiliation had the greatest impact on the CDs of adolescents (structural matrix = 0.85), followed by the level of parental monitoring and moral disengagement. CD is widespread in Chinese juvenile delinquents. CD symptoms differ between criminal and illegal juvenile delinquents. Risk factors such as deviant peer affiliation, inadequate parental monitoring, moral disengagement, and low parental warmth all contribute to the high prevalence of CD.

Abstract Student feedback literacy has been widely recognized as a crucial lever in shaping self-regulated autonomous learners. Extant research has displayed a whole variety of feedback interventions to promote student feedback literacy. However, these discussions are either of a conceptual nature or draw on the experiences of feed-back literate teachers. The perceptions and practices of those in-service teachers count in the cultivation of student feedback literacy, which quite unexpectedly have drawn scant attention. This qualitative study explored how university EFL teachers perceived the need to cultivate student feedback literacy and their actual practices through thematic analysis about data gathered from semi-structured interviews with 9 Chinese university EFL teachers and classroom observation. Results revealed an obvious lack of awareness among the participants to purposefully develop student feedback literacy, underpinned by the conceptualization of feedback as teacher-centered and compounded by a shortage of relevant guiding policies. However, the participants subconsciously promoted student feedback literacy through cognitive steering, behavioral regulation and affective support in unsystematic and disorganized feedback interventions. The findings highlight the exigency for teachers to deepen their understandings about feedback and call for policy support from the authorities. Implications are discussed to chart the potentials to optimize the cultivation of student feedback literacy.

Abstract The return of rural migrant workers to employment is an endogenous force that drives the development of the rural economy and plays a vital role in rural revitalization. Using data from the China Migrants Dynamic Survey (CMDS) conducted in 2017, this study comprehensively examines the influence of social exclusion and the role of identity on migrant workers’ willingness to return home (MWRH). The findings indicate a significant impact of social exclusion on MWRH, and this relationship remains robust even after employing instrumental variables to address endogeneity concerns. Identity emerges as a crucial mediating factor through which social exclusion affects MWRH, demonstrating a partial mediating effect. Notably, the impact of social exclusion on MWRH is particularly prevalent among rural residents in the western and northeastern regions, the older generation, those with lower incomes, and those with limited intra-provincial mobility. Promoting a positive image of migrant workers and encouraging their pursuit of an improved quality of life can help alleviate social exclusion, strengthen their sense of identity, and foster deeper roots in cities. Furthermore, providing supportive platforms for returning migrant workers can enhance their active willingness to return home.

Abstract Amidst the diverse cultural and religious tapestry of Indonesia, Buddhism holds a prominent position as a major faith. Within the context of multiculturalism and generational shifts, this study explores the evolving identification of young Chinese Indonesians with Buddhism. This research addresses the existing knowledge gap by investigating the intricate interplay of historical, cultural, and religious elements that help shape young Chinese Indonesians’ identification with Buddhism. By conducting a thorough analysis of quantitative data gathered from young Chinese Indonesians through a survey, this study investigates six dimensions of identification with Buddhism. This examination considers variables such as age, family background, and regional disparities. Furthermore, to obtain deeper insights and support the quantitative findings, the researchers conducted semistructured interviews to gather qualitative data. The findings reveal the characteristics of young Chinese Indonesians’ identification with Buddhism. First, there are significant variations in identification levels across regions, with relatively lower levels in Java and higher levels in other archipelagos. Personal factors, such as parents’ occupations, also influence individuals’ degree of identification with Buddhism. Second, today’s Chinese Indonesian youth maintain their identification with Buddhism through family ties despite overall intergenerational decline. The participants also show a keen interest in modern religious symbols, dissemination methods, and content. Third, the Buddhist identity of Chinese Indonesian youth transcends traditional values and cultural content, reflecting characteristics of multiculturalism and cultural blending. They not only appreciate various aspects of local culture but also incorporate Buddhist values and symbols into the mainstream of globally shared culture, creating a more extensive and modern collective cultural identity. Unveiling the factors that shape Buddhist identification among Chinese Indonesian youths has implications for fostering intercultural and intergenerational cohesion. The insights derived from this research can contribute to the design of effective strategies aimed at advancing the broader goal of cultural harmony and social unity in Indonesia.

Abstract Most countries along the Belt and Road are developing countries that face pronounced challenges due to poverty. The Chinese government has committed to implementing the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) to establish a ‘Road to Poverty Reduction’. This study explores the impact of the BRI on poverty reduction in participating countries as well as the mechanisms underlying this impact. This research is of great significance to the continuing implementation of the BRI and global poverty governance. Based on a panel dataset extending from 2005 to 2019 and encompassing 151 countries, this article uses the difference-in-differences method to examine the Initiative’s impact and conducts heterogeneity analysis to explore the mechanism underlying this impact in further detail. This approach results in four findings. First, joining the BRI can significantly reduce poverty rates in these countries. Second, the policy effect exhibits a time lag. In the long term, the poverty reduction effect becomes more significant. Third, the BRI can significantly reduce poverty in countries neighbouring China and in lower-middle-income countries. The Land Silk Road Economic Belt and the 21st-Century Maritime Silk Road distinctly reduce poverty. Fourth, the BRI contributes to poverty reduction in BRI countries by facilitating trade, enhancing financial and credit systems, increasing China’s greenfield investment, and establishing digital infrastructure. Additionally, the BRI promotes poverty reduction through increased bilateral visits and technical cooperation, whereas knowledge sharing remains an area in need of further development. Through theoretical analysis and empirical tests, this article evaluates the policy effect of the BRI on poverty alleviation, tests the underlying mechanism, and responds to some concerns expressed by the international community. The findings of this article provide a feasible direction for improving the ability of the BRI to reduce poverty more effectively in the future and thus achieve the United Nations’ sustainable development goals (SDGs).

Abstract As individuals are involved in self-quantification, increasing fields are applying self-quantification with technical support, and a clear understanding of the influencing mechanism and effect boundary of self-quantification is indispensable. Focusing on the field of physical fitness, under different goal settings, the influencing mechanisms of self-quantification on an individual’s participation performance (outcome, experience, persistence intention) and behavioral decision-making (category selection, novelty-seeking) are analyzed and confirmed. The results show that when there is no goal, self-quantification will enhance outcome salience, thus enhancing the individual’s participation outcome and selection for highly healthy categories; self-quantification will reduce perceived enjoyment, thus damaging participation experience and novelty-seeking, but does not affect the persistence intention. When there is a goal, self-quantification will enhance perceived certainty, thus reducing the individual’s participation outcome and selection for highly healthy categories; self-quantification will enhance perceived enjoyment, thus improving the participation experience, persistence intention, and novelty-seeking. Compared to descriptive analysis of phenomena, through laboratory and field experiments, this research confirms the influencing mechanism and effect boundary of self-quantification on an individual’s activity participation performance in real situations. This provides a theoretical basis for understanding the targeted behavioral decision-making patterns of individuals in different types of self-quantification activities.

Abstract With the shift in relational ontology, the concept of home is interpreted as a dynamic and relational process, in which both human and non-human elements need to be valued. Adopting ANT (actor-network theory) as an approach, this article reveals the interactive relationship and translation process between urban-rural migrants and rural heterogeneous actors (including farmland, landscapes, local people, means of subsistence, and technological facilities) in the connection of ideal home networks. It involves three steps of translation between actors, namely problem presentation of key actors, enrollment and benefit granting by key actors, and negotiation of “obligatory passage points” (OPP) based on actors’ common goals. Based on a two-year qualitative research of 18 interviewees, this article demonstrates how migrants adapt to the countryside through enrollment and benefit granting, and how sustainability and recyclability become common interests and OPP for actors in homemaking. The article argues that ANT provides a descriptive focus on how rural life has transformed from a backward neighborhood or abstract nostalgia to a harmonious new home that blends traditional culture, ecological ideas, and modern technology in the context of China. The study also points out that in the process of translating interests between actors, the human-land relationship still shows complexity and instability. Future research needs to pay more attention to the role of government officials and governance policies in the building of home networks.

Background: Due to the high prevalence of myopia, there is a growing need for the identification of myopia intervention mechanisms and targets. Metabolomics has been gradually used to investigate changes in myopia tissue metabolites over the last few years, but the potential physiological and pathological roles of amino acids and their downstream metabolites discovered by metabolomics in myopia are not fully understood. Aim of review: Aim to explore the possible relationship between amino acid metabolism and the occurrence and development of myopia, we collected a total of 21 experimental studies related to myopia metabolomics. Perform pathway analysis using MetaboAnalyst online software. We have identified over 20 amino acids that may be associated with the development of myopia. Among them, 19 types of amino acids are common amino acids. We discussed their possible mechanisms affecting myopia and proposed future prospects for treating myopia. Key scientific concepts of review: Our analysis results show that metabolomics research on myopia involves many important amino acids. We have collected literature and found that research on amino acid metabolism in myopia mainly focuses on downstream small molecule substances. Amino acids and their downstream metabolites affect the development of myopia by participating in important biochemical processes such as oxidative stress, glucose metabolism, and lipid metabolism. Enzymes, receptors, and cytokines that regulate amino acid metabolism may become potential targets for myopia treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Dietary habit significantly contributes to the initiation and progression of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Dietary choices intersect with a range of clinical and societal factors. The utilization of cross-sectional methodologies in numerous studies poses a challenge in establishing definitive causality for the noted associations. Moreover, within identical food categories, specific items may elicit diverse effects on the pathogenesis of RA, and the correlation between several prevalent food items or beverages and RA remains inadequately explored. Methods: We performed a two-sample Mendelian Randomization (MR) study to evaluate the causal impact of 27 distinct dietary habits and RA susceptibility. These dietary-related phenotypes encompass both the relative intake of the four macronutrients (fat, protein, carbohydrates, and sugar) and 23 specific single food intake. Several filtering steps were employed to select eligible genetic instruments strongly associated with each of the traits. The random-effects inverse-variance weighted, weighted median, and MR-Egger methods were employed for MR estimations. Sensitivity analyses and power calculations were executed to ensure the robustness of our study. Results: After rigorous single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) filtering procedures, 611 SNPs were included in our ongoing investigations. The consumption of dried fruit, bread, and alcohol emerged as protective factors, while beef, processed meat, and coffee intake were identified as risk factors. The robustness of our study was confirmed through the outcomes of sensitivity analysis and power calculation. Conclusion: The ongoing investigations furnish evidence that accentuates the influence of diet on RA disease activity, underscoring the importance of delineating the optimal nutritional lifestyle for RA patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is essential to develop highly active and robust electrocatalysts for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) to address the issue of sustainable energy with hydrogen as a renewable energy source. Molybdenum carbide (Mo2C) has been regarded as a promising substitute for noble metal catalysts during the HER process. However, the limited number of exposed active sites and strong Mo–H binding energy of Mo2C seriously hinder the catalytic application to produce hydrogen. Herein, the most abundant marine polysaccharide chitin, was used as carbon and nitrogen sources to fabricate molybdenum carbide particles embedded in a nitrogen-doped carbon matrix (Mo2C@NC). The morphology of the produced molybdenum carbide could be tailored with different amounts of hydrogen chloride (HCl) used during the synthesis. The optimized Mo2C@NC shows good electrocatalytic performance and stability in an acidic medium with an overpotential of 168 mV to reach 10 mA cm–2 and a Tafel slope of 62.68 mV dec–1. The improved performance is chiefly attributed to a relatively large specific surface area of the hybrid catalyst, carbonaceous support preventing particle aggregation, and nitrogen in both the carbon framework and Mo2C, which reduces the desorption energy of Mo–H bonds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a potential renewable and clean energy source, the distribution and exploration prospects of natural hydrogen have garnered widespread attention. However, the limitations in understanding the formation mechanisms and accumulation patterns of underground natural hydrogen have significantly constrained its efficient exploration and utilization. This study reports H2 content and isotopes in natural gas from deep formations in sedimentary basins through geochemical analysis of 58 conventional gas samples from the Sinian to Triassic strata in the central Sichuan Basin. We discovered that H2 content in deep natural gas in central Sichuan generally exceeds 0.1%, with a maximum of 1.6%, and hydrogen isotopes ( δ 2 H H 2 ) range from −850‰ to −586‰. Analysis of the geological conditions, hydrogen generation mechanisms, and isotope fractionation characteristics in the study area confirms that microbial fermentation or in-situ organic matter cracking are not effective pathways for deep H2 generation. Combined with helium content and isotope analysis of the natural gas, it is inferred that the volcanic basement in the central Sichuan area is the potential source rock for natural H2 in the Sinian to Triassic strata. Specifically, H2 originates from the radiolysis of water and hydrothermal reactions of Fe(II) in the basement granite. Additionally, a diffusion fractionation model reveals significant isotope fractionation during the migration and accumulation of deep H2 into sedimentary reservoirs, which lead to anomalously light δ 2 H H 2 in deep natural gas in central Sichuan. This indicates that the underground natural hydrogen accumulation is in a long-term dynamic process, with simultaneous H2 accumulation and dissipation in the gas reservoirs. This research not only elucidates the formation mechanism of deep H2 but also provides insights for the resource potential of natural hydrogen in sedimentary basins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rare-earth elements are often used as dopants because of their good properties. We prepared six sets of In2O3 thin films with different Eu-doped concentrations by the sol–gel method. We investigated the effects of Eu-doping on the crystal structure, surface morphology, elemental composition, and optical properties of the films. The results showed that the In2O3 films with different doping concentrations have good crystallinity and maintain a preferentially oriented cubic crystal structure along the (222) plane. With the increase of doping concentration, the intensity of the (222) diffraction peaks slightly decreased, and the films gradually tilted to the amorphous state. The Eu-doping made the sample surface more compact and smooth, reduced the porosity, increased the crystallite size, and improved the transparency and optical homogeneity of the films. From the XPS spectra analysis, it can be concluded that the doping of Eu did not produce obvious changes in the fitted peaks of O 1s, indicating that Eu3+ successfully replaced In3+ in the In2O3 films. The optical transmittance and bandgap both increased with the increase of doping concentration, the transmittance from 83% to 91%, and the bandgap from 3.74 eV to 3.79 eV. All the samples showed blue-green luminescence bands around 400 nm, and the intensity of the luminescence peaks reached the highest at 3% doping concentration, which was beneficial for the improvement of the optical properties with the appropriate amount of doping. In our study, Eu-doped improved the physical properties of In2O3 thin films, which is of great research significance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite substantial advancements in modern medicine, the management of hypertension remains a major challenge. Stem cell-based therapies have recently demonstrated remarkable efficacy in treating cardiovascular diseases, including hypertension. However, the antihypertensive mechanism of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) has not been extensively explored. This study aimed to investigate the role of injected MSCs in regulating blood pressure homeostasis. Our previous study demonstrated that human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hiPSC-MSCs) are functional and homogeneous sources for MSC-based therapy. After the injection of hiPSC-MSCs, a significant reduction in blood pressure and end target organ inflammation were observed in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs). Cell tracking assays demonstrated that the injected hiPSC-MSCs accumulated in the spleens of the SHRs. The injected hiPSC-MSCs accumulated adjacent to the splenic nerve, potentially contributing to the antihypertensive effects. Furthermore, the hiPSC-MSCs released abundant glutamate, which acts as a neuromodulator to activate the splenic sympathetic nerve. After inhibition of glutamate synthesis by siRNA, the ability of hiPSC-MSCs to activate sympathetic nerves was significantly diminished. In addition, the antihypertensive effects of hiPSC-MSCs were eliminated after splenic nerve denervation (SND), underscoring the critical role of the splenic nerve. Moreover, activation of the splenic nerve resulted in increased release of norepinephrine (NE), which increased the number of choline acetyltransferase-positive (ChAT+) cells in the spleen and peripheral blood. Consequently, the acetylcholine (ACh) produced by elevated ChAT+ cells could act as a vasodilator, lowering blood pressure and mitigating inflammation in end target organs. In summary, our findings indicate that hiPSC-MSCs effectively lower blood pressure in hypertension by influencing the splenic nerves and regulating ChAT+ cells. The connection between blood pressure regulation and the splenic nerve may offer new insights into the treatment of hypertension. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]