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Since the turn of the millennium, levels of recidivism following a prison term have declined in Sweden. The composition of the inmate population has changed, which provides a partial explanation. This study examines whether prison service interventions, such as the provision of treatment, education, and work, might have contributed to the decline in recidivism. The study sample comprises women and men who were released from Swedish prisons between 2012 and 2015. Data have been collected from the Prison and Probation Service registers and the Convictions Register. The analysis employs propensity score matching and regression analysis. The results show that the interventions examined have a positive effect on reducing recidivism, but that their explanatory power is limited. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The potential association between red blood cell distribution width (RDW) at admission and prognosis in patients with sepsis-induced cardiomyopathy(SIC) remains uncertain. The purpose of this study was to explore the prognostic value of RDW on mortality in patients with SIC. Data for this retrospective study were obtained from the MIMIC IV2.2 database. We used propensity score matching (PSM) and Cox proportional hazards regression analysis to evaluate the main risk factors associated with mortality in SIC patients. This analysis was utilized to develop a predictive nomogram. To assess the predictive accuracy and clinical usefulness of the model, we employed the concordance index (C-index) and decision curve analysis. To define the high- and low-RDW groups among patients with SIC, we determined the optimal cut-off value by maximizing the Youden index. According to the screening criteria, we identified a cohort of 1051 patients diagnosed with SIC. When comparing the high-RDW group to the low-RDW group, it was found that the high-RDW group exhibited longer Los_ICU(4.5 days vs.3.8 days, respectively, P = 0.009) and higher mortality rates at 28 days (33.8% vs. 7.8%, respectively, P < 0.001). A nomogram model was created using matched patients which included various factors such as Age, RDW, LDH, CKMB, creatinine and the administration of β-blocker. The C-index predicting 28-day survival probability was 0.846. Decision curves analysis demonstrated that the inclusion of RDW in the model provided a greater net benefit compared to excluding RDW. The prognosis of patients with SIC can be predicted by the RDW value. The nomogram model provides a useful tool in identifying and managing SIC patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Positive surgical margins (PSM) after robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) for prostate cancer (PCa) can increase the risk of biochemical recurrence and PCa-specific mortality. We aimed to evaluate the impact of multidisciplinary team meetings (MDTM) on reducing the incidence of PSM following RARP. Methods: We retrospectively collected the clinical data of consecutive patients undergoing RARP at Hiroshima University between February 2017 and October 2023. The MDTM, comprising a radiologist, uropathologist, and urologist, reviewed the preoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and prostate biopsy results of each patient before RARP and considered the areas requiring attention during RARP. Surgeons were categorized as experienced or non-experienced based on the number of RARP procedures performed. Results: In the pT2 population, the PSM rate was significantly lower in cases evaluated using the MDTM than in those not (11.1% vs. 24.0%; p = 0.0067). Cox regression analysis identified that a PSA level > 7 ng/mL (hazard ratio 2.2799) and nerve-sparing procedures (hazard ratio 2.2619) were independent predictors of increased PSM risk while conducting an MDTM (hazard ratio 0.4773) was an independent predictor of reduced PSM risk in the pT2 population. In the pathological T3 population, there was no significant difference in PSM rates between cases evaluated and not evaluated at an MDTM. In cases evaluated at an MDTM, similar PSM rates were observed regardless of surgeon experience (10.4% for non-experienced and 11.9% for experienced surgeons; p = 0.9999). Conclusions: An MDTM can improve the PSM rate of pT2 PCa following RARP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Trade credit (TC) is a more easily accessible financing source to the most small-scale aquaculture farms with limited access to institutional credit in the developing countries. However, it is often argued that TC is a drain, on one hand, and the gain, on the other hand, without quantifying and identifying sources of drain and gain. This study empirically examines the sources and size of benefits (gain) and costs (drain) of TC in aquaculture with a sample of 280 farms in Bangladesh using Stochastic Meta Frontier and Propensity Score Matching. Moreover, factors influencing the probability of having access to TC are explored using Probit regressions. TC enables financially constrained access to inputs, thereby avoiding production losses due to lack of capital. It also allows farms' to use improved production technology with a positive tradeoff between benefits and costs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to empirically explore how firms configure centrifugal and centripetal forces in promoting breakthrough innovation (BI), thus improving their strategic performance (SP) in the artificial intelligence (AI) context. Design/methodology/approach: This study applies the centrifugal and centripetal forces model to a survey sample of 285 Chinese AI firms. Fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) and propensity score matching (PSM) are integrated to explore the configurational effects of three centrifugal forces—the autonomy of technical experts, knowledge search and alliance network—and two centripetal forces—strictness of organisational institutions (SOI) and human–human–AI collaboration (HHAC)—on BI, examining whether the configurations that enhance BI can further improve SP. Findings: The results indicate that the strictness of innovation institutions (SII) and strictness of ethical institutions (SEI) are equally important for determining SOI. Three configurations can improve BI when SOI and HHAC are the core conditions; only one of three configurations can further improve SP significantly. Originality/value: By introducing SOI composed of equally important levels of SII and SEI and HHAC, this research is one of the few empirical studies to explore the mechanisms behind the impact of centrifugal and centripetal forces on BI and SP, which may help researchers and managers address innovation challenges in the AI context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article examines the impact of access to electricity on rural household business startups across 3 channels: (1) access to rural electrification programmes, (2) access to power (irrespective of the source) and (3) connection to the grid. We use inverse probability weighted regression adjustment on survey data collected from the central region of rural Uganda and apply propensity score matching (PSM) as a check to the robustness of our results. Our primary results reveal substantial and significant impacts of electricity access on household business start-ups across the three channels. Our findings remain robust, and hidden bias does not affect our results. We find that access to power seems to have a more significant impact than access to the other two channels. This suggests that for a better understanding of how electricity affects rural areas, a comprehensive analysis of all power sources is crucial. Additionally, we show that access to electricity primarily influences the establishment of service-related enterprises rather than manufacturing and processing enterprises. From a policy standpoint, our results indicate that developing a rural transformation program through enhanced electrification interventions necessitates multiple support programmes beyond merely extending the grid lines to rural areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Linqiong Liu,1– 3,&ast; Pengfei Huang,1,2,&ast; Changsong Wang,1,2,&ast; Yuxi Liu,1– 3 Yan Gao,3 Kaijiang Yu1,2 1Departments of Critical Care Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, People’s Republic of China; 2Heilongjiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Critical Care Medicine, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, People’s Republic of China; 3Departments of Critical Care Medicine, the Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, People’s Republic of China&ast;These authors contributed equally to this workCorrespondence: Yan Gao, Departments of Critical Care Medicine, the Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, 150001, People’s Republic of China, Email icugaoyan@163.com Kaijiang Yu, Departments of Critical Care Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, 150001, People’s Republic of China, Email drkaijiang@163.comPurpose: We aimed to identify the association between heart failure (HF) with sepsis and its mortality through Mendelian randomization (MR) and observational studies.Patients and Methods: In MR study, we utilized public summary statistics from genome-wide association studies (GWAS). We conducted univariable, multivariable and network MR analyses to investigate causal relationships between HF and sepsis, and mediating roles of cytokines and growth factors. We performed an observational analysis using the MIMIC-IV database. Propensity score matching (PSM) and logistic regression models were employed to explore causal relationships between HF and sepsis, besides short-, medium-, and long-term mortality associated with sepsis.Results: In univariable MR analysis, there was a causal relationship between genetically predicted HF (OR = 1.15, 95% CI = 1.02– 1.29, P = 0.025) and sepsis. In multivariable and network MR analyses, βNGF was independently associated with sepsis. And it mediated 17.6% (95% CI 2.45– 30.72%) of HF effect on sepsis. In the real-world observational study, acute on chronic diastolic (congestive) heart failure (DCHF) (OR = 1.59, 95% CI = 1.31– 1.93, P < 0.001), acute DCHF (OR = 2.52, 95% CI = 1.61– 3.95, P = 0.010), and acute diastolic heart failure (DHF) (OR = 1.52, 95% CI = 1.06– 2.19, P = 0.024) after PSM were associated with occurrence of sepsis. Chronic systolic (congestive) heart failure (SCHF) was associated with increased 28-day (OR = 1.75, 95% CI = 1.06– 2.91, P = 0.030), 1-year (OR = 1.80, 95% CI = 1.08– 3.00, P = 0.023), and 2-year (OR = 1.86, 95% CI = 1.12– 3.10, P = 0.018) mortality in sepsis.Conclusion: Observational and MR analyses showed a causal relationship between HF and sepsis. Chronic SCHF was related to increased short/long-term mortality in sepsis. Our study indicated βNGF a key factor in HF-induced sepsis.Keywords: βNGF, MIMIC-IV, PSM, GWAS

Wood is a heterogeneous and anisotropic material, and its mechanical properties are different from other building materials. It is necessary to know the mechanical properties of wood materials in buildings, such as carriers, floor beams, roof timber, plywood roof covers, laminated beams, stair or wire poles, yacht poles, and furniture frames. Tensile strength is the resistance of wood material to two forces applied in opposite directions, trying to break and separate the fibers. This study aimed to determine the tension strength perpendicular to fibers of beech timber reinforced with basalt fiber-reinforced polymer (BFRP), glass fiber-reinforced polymer (GFRP), and plaster mesh (PSM). One component polyurethane (PUR-D4) and polyvinyl acetate (PVAc-D4) were used as the adhesive. The BFRP, GFRP, and PSM were added as one layer of reinforced materials. Experimental materials reinforced with BFRP, GFRP, and PSM were tested in the unreinforced locations, of reinforced lumber with BFRP, GFRP, and PSM. Tests were performed to investigate the tensile strength perpendicular to fiber (┴σt). The test results showed that the reinforcement process increased the (┴σ). The ┴σt value of samples reinforced with BFRP was 13%, 32%, and 66% higher than those reinforced with GFRP, unreinforced, and reinforced PSM, respectively. Accordingly, the BFRP shows potential to serve as an option for reinforced wood structural members.

Abstract The potential association between red blood cell distribution width (RDW) at admission and prognosis in patients with sepsis-induced cardiomyopathy(SIC) remains uncertain. The purpose of this study was to explore the prognostic value of RDW on mortality in patients with SIC. Data for this retrospective study were obtained from the MIMIC IV2.2 database. We used propensity score matching (PSM) and Cox proportional hazards regression analysis to evaluate the main risk factors associated with mortality in SIC patients. This analysis was utilized to develop a predictive nomogram. To assess the predictive accuracy and clinical usefulness of the model, we employed the concordance index (C-index) and decision curve analysis. To define the high- and low-RDW groups among patients with SIC, we determined the optimal cut-off value by maximizing the Youden index. According to the screening criteria, we identified a cohort of 1051 patients diagnosed with SIC. When comparing the high-RDW group to the low-RDW group, it was found that the high-RDW group exhibited longer Los_ICU(4.5 days vs.3.8 days, respectively, P = 0.009) and higher mortality rates at 28 days (33.8% vs. 7.8%, respectively, P

Xiang Li,1,2 Jun Zhang,3 Zhongxue Fu1 1Department of General Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People’s Republic of China; 2Department of General Surgery, Chongqing University FuLing Hospital, Chongqing, People’s Republic of China; 3Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People’s Republic of ChinaCorrespondence: Zhongxue Fu, Department of General Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, No. 1 Shuanghu Branch Road, Huixing Street, Yubei District, Chongqing, People’s Republic of China, Email fzx19990521@126.comPurpose: This study aims to investigate the correlation between a novel integrated inflammatory marker: The inflammation-combined prognostic index (ICPI), combining NLR, PLR, and MLR, with the clinicopathological characteristics and overall survival (OS) of gastric cancer (GC).Patients and Methods: Data from 876 patients with GC were retrospectively analyzed from January 1, 2017, to April 30, 2023. PSM was employed to mitigate confounding factors between groups. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were utilized to determine the optimal cutoff value. Univariate, LASSO, and multivariate regression analyses were executed. Subsequently, a nomogram for predicting OS was developed and validated.Results: The cohort with a poor prognosis exhibited significantly elevated levels of neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), monocyte-to-lymphocyte ratio (MLR), and ICPI (P< 0.001). Similarly, higher levels of NLR, PLR, MLR, and ICPI were associated with a poorer prognosis (P< 0.001). Following regression analysis, ICPI, T-stage, lymph node ratio (LNR), and primary site were identified as independent risk factors affecting OS. A nomogram was constructed based on these factors to predict 1-, 3-, and 5-year OS, yielding C-indexes of 0.8 and 0.743 for the training and validation sets, respectively. The calibration curves demonstrated close alignment between predicted and actual results, indicating high predictive accuracy. Moreover, the decision curve underscored the practical utility of the model.Conclusion: The new inflammatory parameter ICPI integrates NLR, PLR and MLR. The ICPI-based nomogram and web calculator accurately predict OS in patients with GC.Keywords: gastric cancer, ICPI, PSM, nomogram, OS

Abstract Our objective was to examine the impact of elective neck dissection (END) on the prognosis of patients with cT2N0 maxillary sinus squamous cell carcinoma (MS-SCC) and to determine factors that predict the occurrence of occult metastasis in this patient population. A retrospective analysis was conducted using data from the SEER database. Patients with cT2N0 MS-SCC were included in the study and divided into two groups: those who received END and those who did not. The impact of END on disease-specific survival (DSS) and overall survival (OS) was assessed using propensity score matching. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to determine predictors for occult metastasis. A total of 180 patients were included in the study, with 40 cases receiving END. Following propensity score matching, patients treated with END and those without showed similar DSS and OS rates. Occult metastasis was observed in 9 patients, corresponding to a rate of 22.5%. High-grade tumors were independently associated with a higher risk of occult metastasis compared to low-grade tumors (hazard ratio 1.52, 95% confidence interval 1.17–2.00). cT2 MS-SCC carries an occult metastasis rate of 22.5%, with histologic grade being the primary determinant of occult metastasis. END does not confer a significant survival benefit in this patient population.

The addition of phosphate-solubilizing microorganisms (PSM) as biofertilizers can improve the quality of soil properties. A meta-analysis study was conducted to analyze the effect of PSM on soil properties. This meta-analysis has analyzed 20 research articles published between 1990 and 2023, which have reported the influence of PSM on soil properties. The value of effect size (ES) Hedges'd of available-P is 3.047 (p

Introduction: For years, chemical process industries have reported the unexpected release of highly hazardous liquids and gases. A disaster could not be avoided when these materials were not adequately controlled. The issue of Process Safety Management (PSM) is still being discussed in developing and developed countries. PSM was established to manage the risks of a company’s personnel, properties, products, environment, and credit risks. This study aimed to review the challenges and achievements of PSM implementation and provide recommendations for improvement. Material and Methods: A collection of scholarly articles published from 2000 to 2023, such as Science Direct, WOS, PubMed, and Scopus, was chosen through a systematic, meticulous review. After thoroughly examining these abstracts, titles, and complete contexts, 49 articles were finally selected for inclusion in the study and classified based on different criteria, such as publication year, authors, achievements, and challenges. Results: PSM in the United States has been chiefly studied due to the high number of chemical process industries and its presence in the form of OSHA legislation in this country. The areas of operations, audits, and resources have the most challenges in implementing PSM. On the other hand, reducing the severity of incidents in chemical processes and increasing productivity are considered the most significant achievements of PSM implementation. Conclusion: PSM as an interdisciplinary field has improved and become more effective over the years.. However, incidents still exist, and the number can increase, considering the growth of industries’ chemical processes. Therefore, a deep look at the issues of risk-based regulations, competency, operational excellence, and learning from incidents is necessary to achieve excellence in PSM.

Abstract With the rapid development of imaging technology and comprehensive treatment in modern medicine, the early diagnosis rate of breast cancer is constantly improving, and the prognosis is also improving; As breast cancer patients survive longer, the risk of developing second primary cancers increases. Since both breast and thyroid are Hormone receptor sensitive organs, which are regulated by hypothalamus pituitary target gland endocrine axis, changes in body endocrine status may lead to the occurrence of these two diseases in succession or simultaneously. This study extracted clinical data and survival outcomes of breast cancer patients registered in the Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results (SEER) database between 2010 and 2019. After matching the case and controls with propensity scores, the selected patients were randomly split into training and test datasets at a ratio of 7:3. Univariate and multivariate COX proportional regression analysis is used to determine independent risk factors for secondary thyroid cancer and construct a column chart prediction model. Age, ethnicity, whether radiotherapy, tumor primary location, N stage, M stage were identified by Cox regression as independent factors affecting secondary thyroid cancer in patients with breast cancer patients, and a risk factor nomogram was established to predict patients’ 3 and 5 year survival probabilities. The AUC values for 3 and 5 years in the training set were 0.713, 0.707, and the c-index was 0.693 (95% CI 0.67144, 0.71456), and the AUC values for 3 and 5 years in the validation set were 0.681, 0.681, and the c-index was 0.673 (95% CI 0.64164, 0.70436), respectively.

Background: The prevalence of papillary thyroid cancer is gradually increasing and the trend of youthfulness is obvious. Some patients may not be able to undergo surgery, which is the mainstay of treatment, due to physical or financial reasons. Therefore, the prediction of cancer-specific survival (CSS) in patients with non-operated papillary thyroid cancer is necessary. Methods: Patients’ demographic and clinical information was extracted from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database. SPSS software was used to perform Cox regression analyses as well as propensity score matching analyses. R software was used to construct and validate the nomogram. X-tile software was used to select the best cutoff point for patient risk stratification. Results: A total of 1319 patients were included in this retrospective study. After Cox regression analysis, age, grade, T stage, M stage, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy were used to construct the nomogram. C-index, calibration curves, and receiver operating characteristic curves all verified the high predictive accuracy of the nomogram. The decision curve analysis demonstrated that patients could gain clinical benefit from this predictive model. Survival curve analysis after propensity score matching demonstrated the positive effects of radiotherapy on CSS in non-operated patients. Conclusion: Our retrospective study successfully established a nomogram that accurately predicts CSS in patients with non-operated papillary thyroid cancer and demonstrated that radiotherapy for operated patients can still help improve prognosis. These findings can help clinicians make better choices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Our objective was to examine the impact of elective neck dissection (END) on the prognosis of patients with cT2N0 maxillary sinus squamous cell carcinoma (MS-SCC) and to determine factors that predict the occurrence of occult metastasis in this patient population. A retrospective analysis was conducted using data from the SEER database. Patients with cT2N0 MS-SCC were included in the study and divided into two groups: those who received END and those who did not. The impact of END on disease-specific survival (DSS) and overall survival (OS) was assessed using propensity score matching. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to determine predictors for occult metastasis. A total of 180 patients were included in the study, with 40 cases receiving END. Following propensity score matching, patients treated with END and those without showed similar DSS and OS rates. Occult metastasis was observed in 9 patients, corresponding to a rate of 22.5%. High-grade tumors were independently associated with a higher risk of occult metastasis compared to low-grade tumors (hazard ratio 1.52, 95% confidence interval 1.17–2.00). cT2 MS-SCC carries an occult metastasis rate of 22.5%, with histologic grade being the primary determinant of occult metastasis. END does not confer a significant survival benefit in this patient population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several studies have compared the transcriptome across various brain regions in Huntington's disease (HD) gene-positive and neurologically normal individuals to identify potential differentially expressed genes (DEGs) that could be pharmaceutical or prognostic targets for HD. Despite adhering to technical recommendations for optimal RNA-Seq analysis, none of the genes identified as upregulated in these studies have yet demonstrated success as prognostic or therapeutic targets for HD. Earlier studies included samples from neurologically normal individuals older than the HD gene-positive group. Considering the gradual transcriptional changes induced by aging in the brain, we posited that utilizing samples from older controls could result in the misidentification of DEGs. To validate our hypothesis, we reanalyzed 146 samples from this study, accessible on the SRA database, and employed Propensity Score Matching (PSM) to create a "virtual" control group with a statistically comparable age distribution to the HD gene-positive group. Our study underscores the adverse impact of using neurologically normal individuals over 75 as controls in gene differential expression analysis, resulting in false positives and negatives. We conclusively demonstrate that using such old controls leads to the misidentification of DEGs, detrimentally affecting the discovery of potential pharmaceutical and prognostic markers. This underscores the pivotal role of considering the age of control samples in RNA-Seq analysis and emphasizes its inclusion in evaluating best practices for such investigations. Although our primary focus is HD, our findings suggest that judiciously selecting age-appropriate control samples can significantly improve best practices in differential expression analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study investigates the effect of the spouse's access to financial services via self‐help groups (SHGs) on technical efficiency, technology and managerial gaps. We use farm‐level data from rice farming households in eastern India, propensity score matching method and selectivity‐corrected stochastic production frontier model. Results show that farms with access to financial services via a spouse's membership in SHGs have slightly higher technical efficiency than their counterparts. Technology and managerial gaps are higher for farms where spouses have access to financial services via SHGs than their counterparts. With access to financial services via spouses, rice farmers reallocated family labour and hired more labour for crop establishment. Thus, women joining SHGs can increase crop productivity, and extension agents should also focus on spouses and their role in farming decision‐making, not just financial management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The addition of phosphate-solubilizing microorganisms (PSM) as biofertilizers can improve the quality of soil properties. A meta-analysis study was conducted to analyze the effect of PSM on soil properties. This metaanalysis has analyzed 20 research articles published between 1990 and 2023, which have reported the influence of PSM on soil properties. The value of effect size (ES) Hedges'd of available-P is 3.047 (p<0.001), ES of available K is 2.102 (p<0.001), ES of soil nitrogen (N) is 1.706 (p<0.001), ES of pH is - 2.738 (p<0.001), ES of soil organic carbon (SOC) is 1.087 (p=0.004), ES of N-NH4 is 0.636 (p=0.013), ES of N-NO3 is 2.643 (p<0.001), ES of phosphatase is 5.001 (p<0.001), ES of alkaline phosphatase is 22.956 (p<0.001), and ES of acid phosphatase is 23.104 (p<0.001). The results showed that in terms of phosphate solubility, PSM is more effective on alkaline soils with high SOC content, very high P availability, and a sandy loam texture. PSM is more effective for K solubility on acidic soils, with very high SOC content, high P availability, and a loamy texture. PSM is effective in increasing soil N with acid soil characteristics, low SOC content, moderate available P content, and clay texture. According to this study, the Penicillium fungus ranks second in the fungal group in terms of phosphate solubilization capacity after the genus Azotobacter. The genus Peronospora showed the greatest potential in increasing soil N. In contrast, Burkholderia showed the greatest effectiveness in solubilizing K. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change has become a critical global issue and challenge, with significant implications for financial enterprises as an integral part of economic activities. A thorough analysis of the impact of climate change on the high-quality development of financial enterprises is of great importance for financial sustainability. This paper first conducts an indepth mathematical analysis of the intrinsic mechanisms through which climate change affects the high-quality development of financial enterprises by establishing a game theory model. Secondly, using data from listed companies for the years 2000-2020, an econometric model is constructed to empirically examine the relationship between climate change and the high-quality development of financial enterprises. The research findings demonstrate that climate change significantly inhibits the highquality development of financial enterprises, as evidenced by robust results obtained through various methods such as data truncation, variable substitution, and changes in sample periods. Furthermore, this study addresses the endogeneity of the regression model using propensity score matching (PSM), instrumental variable methods, and system generalized method of moments (GMM). Additionally, climate change impacts the high-quality development of financial enterprises through technological innovation. Given the backdrop of climate change, understanding the relationship and logic between climate change and the high-quality development of financial enterprises and discerning the channels and mechanisms through which climate change affects their development are crucial. This research provides a new perspective and expands the research frontier on the high-quality development of financial enterprises, enriching the theoretical foundations in this field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Both Public Works (PWs) and Conditional Cash Transfers (CCTs) programs have been implemented to support poor households in enhancing food security, protecting physical assets, and boosting resilience against shocks. However, ownership of valuable assets like improved housing, durables and livestock remains low among rural households in Tanzania. Evidence shows; that households without assets experience a decline in welfare and are at risk of falling into lower economic status. This study aims to assess the impact of integrated CCTs and PWs on asset holdings among households. The asset index was calculated using Principal Component Analysis (PCA) on cross-sectional data collected from 357 households (both treated and control) to determine household socioeconomic status and the Propensity Score Matching (PSM) technique was employed for impact evaluation. The results indicated that integrated CCTs and PWs contributed to improve asset accumulation by households. About 52% beneficiaries lives under improved iron roofed houses, owning 2 more goats and 3 more chicken compared to nonbeneficiaries. Additionally, spending habits economics activities played a significant role in asset accumulation. The policy implications are to consider other cash transfer programs in other areas that have the potential to reduce poverty by providing direct financial assistance to vulnerable populations, leading to improved well-being and economic stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

IntroductionThe global food system faces numerous challenges, including population growth, pandemics, climate change, natural disasters, and economic instability. These challenges have a profound impact on agriculture, with climate change leading to unpredictable weather and more frequent extreme events that threaten crop yields and farming sustainability. Farmers are also grappling with rising input costs and market volatility, intensifying the need for improved productivity and efficiency.PurposeConsidering these challenges, digital technology, particularly mobile internet (MI), is emerging as a key tool for achieving sustainable agriculture by enhancing productivity, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. While much research has focused on the effects of MI on agricultural inputs, prices, and operational efficiency, there is limited understanding of its direct impact on food production outcomes. This study aims to fill this gap by examining the influence of MI usage on crop production.MethodThe study utilizes data from 660 farmers across two provinces of Pakistan. Propensity Score Matching (PSM) and linear regression models are employed to assess the impact of MI usage on food production.ResultsThe analysis reveals a significant positive effect of MI usage on crop production, with MI users experiencing a 13.30% increase in crop yield compared to non-users. The heterogeneity analysis shows varying impacts among different farmer groups: young farmers see a 13.50% increase, less-educated farmers a 15.27% rise, larger-scale farmers a 23.80% boost, and those in economically developed villages a 10.50% improvement per hectare compared to non-users.ConclusionThe study highlights the potential of MI in boosting crop production, particularly for specific farmer demographics. Policymakers should prioritize the development of MI infrastructure in rural areas and collaborate with research institutions, agricultural cooperatives, and enterprises to design interventions, such as financial support and technical assistance, that can help farmers fully leverage the benefits of digital technology.

Background: Retinoblastoma (RB) is a rare primary malignant tumor primarily affecting children. Our study aims to compare the overall survival (OS) between pediatric and adult RB patients and establish a predictive model for adult RB patients' OS to assist clinical decision-making. Methods: This study retrospectively analyzed data from 1938 RB patients in the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database, covering the period from 2000 to 2015. Propensity score matching (PSM) ensured balanced characteristics between pediatric and adult groups. A Cox proportional hazards regression model was used to assess prognostic factors, and selected variables were utilized to construct a predictive survival model. The Nomogram model's performance was evaluated through the C-index, time-dependent ROC curves, calibration curves, and decision curve analysis (DCA). Results: Following PSM, adult RB patients had lower OS compared to pediatric RB patients. Independent prognostic factors for adult RB OS included age, gender, disease stage, radiation therapy, income, and diagnosis confirmation. In the training cohort, the Nomogram achieved a C-index for OS of 0.686 and accurately predicted 2-year, 3-year, and 5-year OS with AUC values of 0.672, 0.680, and 0.660, respectively. The C-index, time-dependent ROC curves, calibration curves, and DCA in both training and validation cohorts confirmed the Nomogram's excellent performance. Conclusion: In this study, adult RB patients have worse OS than pediatric RB patients. Consequently, we constructed a Nomogram to predict the risk for adult RB patients. The Nomogram demonstrated good accuracy and reliability, making it suitable for widespread application in clinical practice to assist healthcare professionals in assessing patients’ prognoses.

Abstract Recently, due attention was given to the commercialization of smallholder agriculture through contact farming, hoping that it would bring the positive impact on the income of smallholder producer in Ethiopia. This article presents the results of data analysis conducted to generate empirical data required to inform the smallholder agricultural commercialization policy using data collected from 424 (194 participants and 230 non-participants) randomly selected vegetables producer farmers from the 2 districts of the East shewa zone of the Oromia Regional State, Ethiopia. The propensity score matching was used to assess the impact of contract farming (CF) on smallholder farmers’ income in the study area. The probit model result shows that, the proportion of total crop area allocated to vegetables, access to credit, frequency of extension contacts, market information, and distance of the market center havepositive and significance effects on decision of vegetable producers to participate on the CF. The impact assessment result using PSM reveals that, gross annual income of the contract participants were lower by the 3.8% (Birr 2942) as compared to the non- participants. This implies that, local context matters for the success of CF and improves their livelihood. However, some of the CF participants would like to continue for access of production inputs, access to credit, technical advice and to reduce marketing risks and uncertainty. In conclusion, CF is a useful institutional arrangement which increases smallholders’ income and benefit from remunerative value chains agriculture, but it is not a panacea that works in different contexts. Hence, policy makers should base their choices on empirical evidence and local context to consider alternative and complementary intervention options to enhance smallholder commercialization and ensure sustainable livelihood in the research area.

Efforts to reduce food insecurity must include building resilience in rural farmers to shocks. One way to achieve this is through climate-smart agriculture (CSA). This paper analyzes the impact of CSA on farmers’ livelihoods. Data were collected in two phases in 2010 and 2018 from a study (CSA practitioners) and control group (CSA non-practitioners) of climate-affected farmers (240 farmers in each group) using a quasi-experimental survey design considering all possible biases. Descriptive statistics, variance inflation factor analysis, multiple regression, path analysis, FE-IV, and propensity score matching models were applied. Practicing CSA technologies improved food security and the incomes of the farmers through increased agricultural productivity. The impact of CSA technologies differed based on farmers’ understanding of technologies, the time and amount of financial support, availability of extension staff, the provision of technical and other logistical support, and CSA practitioners’ experience, such as knowing how to enhance plant resilience. Specific policy interventions, including financing of CSA, would benefit rural farmers. CSA provides a path towards sustainable livelihood development and food security. These findings will be useful for policymakers, planners, administrators, and development workers.

The current research aims to investigate the gender roles of accounting financial expertise (AFE) auditors for the accuracy of financial reporting. By utilizing four measures, namely two forms of real earnings management and two forms of discretionary accruals, we have developed a comprehensive index referred to as the Index of Financial Reporting Quality (IFRQ). Financial statistics were obtained from the annual COMPUSTAT database using Wharton Research Data Services (WRDS). Information related to audit services and accounting financial expertise was acquired from the ‘Institutional Shareholder Services’ (ISS) for the period spanning from 2003 to 2019. Possible endogeneity controlled through the Propensity Score Matching (PSM) technique, i.e. firm-level characteristics between gender diverse auditors and financial reporting quality. Moreover, Generalized Method of Moments (GMM) econometric technique was utilized in order to derive precise and reliable coefficient values. Most important and robust conclusion of the study is that the gender of the auditor matters greatly in impacting the quality of financial reporting. The findings of the present research suggest that the quality of financial reports is enhanced when women with accounting knowledge serve on the audit committee. This study highlights the significance of diversity, not only as a matter of ethical consideration, but also as a concrete advantage in the endeavor to enhance the quality of financial reporting.

Protection relays are crucial to analyzing how photovoltaic (PV) systems improve network dependability during disturbances. Thus, an in-depth analysis is performed to determine how PV integration affects the nominal load current of the medium voltage (MV) line. This analysis helps determine appropriate pickup currents in overcurrent (OC) relay protection systems. This requires careful relay operation times, exact estimations of the highest and lowest short-circuit values, and methods to mitigate the impact of interfacing inverters across PV penetration levels. In energy indices calculation, a final study proposes new restrictions coordination between OC relay and PV in-feed current protection. A method for computing the energy not supplied (ENS) metric takes into account the harmonized operation of principal and secondary OC relays and PV system current-based protective actions at their connection points. The simulations have shown that the proposed method is better at lowering the ENS's yearly value than the standard method, which includes PV. Consequently, the reliability indices will reach the minimum value and to showcase the efficacy and precision of the provided analysis, the ETAP software program is utilized as a demonstrative tool. Without failure rate modification, the EENS is 144643.500 MWh/year, and the ENS is 478.155 h/year. After PV integration, bus failure rates dropped 35% compared to the relay coordination situation. As a result, the EENS equals 158435.755 MWh/year, and the suggested method lowers the ENS's annual weight by 47.5% compared to the conventional way.

AbstractThis paper investigates the impact of dairy product marketing on household food security in Jimma Zone Ethiopia. A quasi-experimental research design was applied through the use of a cross-sectional data type. In order to identify the study kebeles and 266 respondents, a multi-stage sampling procedure was conducted, and the data was gathered through interview schedules. Descriptive statistics, Binary logit, and Propensity Score Matching (PSM) models were used to analyze the data. From the randomly selected households about 54.9% were participated in milk marketing. The study discovered that family size, livestock size, off-farm engagement, access to dairy input, ownership of crossbreed cows, and cooperative membership significantly and positively influenced dairy product market participation. Conversely, age, education level, and market distance had a negative effect. The results of PSM indicated that dairy product market participation had a positive impact on the household food consumption score and dietary diversity, increasing them by 16.38% and 15.42%, respectively. All in all, the research found that milk market participation has a meaningful effect on household food security, and so measures like Innovations to increase dairy production and productivity, and cooperative membership should be promoted to strengthen the participation of smallholder dairy farmers in the area. The study can offer empirical evidence on the contribution of dairy product market participation to household food security.

AbstractContract farming (CF) has been one of the strategies employed to enhance the production and productivity of malt barley and substitute imported malt barley in Ethiopia, in addition to addressing marketing challenges. The predicted results also include satisfying domestic malt barley demand, enhancing farmers’ welfare, and saving the nation’s foreign exchange. Hence, this study evaluated the production efficiency impact of malt barley CF in northwestern Ethiopia. The study was based on the data collected from 398 farmers in two districts, selected using multistage sampling techniques. The probit model showed that CF participation among malt barley farmers was positively correlated with frequency of extension contact, field day, training, cooperative membership, credit, and household size. The maximum likelihood estimator of SPF shows malt barley farm, fertilizer, and oxen power had positive effects on malt barley output. The stochastic cost frontier analysis demonstrated that the total cost of production was positively and significantly impacted by malt barley output and the cost of inputs (labor, oxen, farm, and seed). Propensity score matching (PSM) revealed that CF increased the TE, AE, and EE by 4.52%, 12.34%, and 11.55% for participants, respectively. The findings of this study demonstrate that CF can increase farm households’ TE, AE, and EE, which policymakers and other interested organizations may consider as a different development strategy as long as it is adjusted to local conditions.

The primary objective of this study is to uncover whether the occurrence of stock price crash (SPCR) influences firms’ engagement in green innovation (GI) and change in GI activities. Using data for China’s A-share listed firms from 2009 to 2022, our initial findings reveal that firms increase their investments in GI after SPCR occurrence and this effect is consistent with a change in GI. The mechanism analysis shows increased financial constraints prompting firms to adopt GI to alleviate the strain on financing, thereby enhancing overall financial stability. Additionally, the impact of SPCR on GI is more prominent in state-owned enterprises and in those with politically connected CEOs. Moreover, heterogeneity analysis shows that firms located in high-tech regions and those with low levels of bank competition tend to invest more in GI activities after the occurrence of SPCR. Overall, the findings are robust and remain valid after using propensity score matching and system generalized method of moments models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The presence of turning points (stationary points like maxima and minima) in the Parameter-versus-state map (PSM) curve of a memristor can be beneficial in several memristive uses like multi-level logic design, multi-bit memories, and chaos generation circuits. Surprisingly the memristors with these types of PSM curves exhibit multiple crossing points in the transient input v-i contours. In this paper, the memductance model has been derived for such non-linear memristors exhibiting multi-cross-over characteristics. In the presented framework, the coefficients-related condition for the multi-turning point PSM curve has been derived, a necessary condition for the multi-crossing v-i contour. The condition related to the memristor operating parameters has also been reported taking both input signal and initial states into consideration. To realise the derived memductance model corresponding to the three cross-over memristive behaviour, an OTA-based memristor emulator has been developed. Unlike some existing fractional order non-symmetric multi-crossing memristor emulators, the proposed emulator circuit realises an integer order memristor function operating at moderate frequencies. The realised emulator uses only four OTAs and three grounded passive circuit elements with no external multiplier. For the CMOS implementation of employed OTA, the simulation results are obtained to verify the three pinch-off behaviour. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Plasma exchange (PE) and immunoadsorption (IA) are recognized as effective ways to treat attacks in AQP4 antibody‐positive NMOSD, but high‐quality evidence was lacking. To evaluate the efficacy and safety of PE/IA plus intravenous methylprednisolone (IVMP) in NMOSD attacks using propensity scores to match IVMP as control. Methods: Patients were from a prospective observational cohort study. Stratification and interval propensity score matching (PSM) were used to reduce selection bias by matching baseline characteristics (gender, age, time to IVMP, EDSS at attack) between PE/IA + IVMP and IVMP group (in a ratio of 1:2). The primary endpoint of efficacy was EDSS change at 6 months. Adverse events and changes in laboratory tests were recorded. Results: Four hundred and eleven attacks of 336 patients were screened for PSM, and 90 attacks (30 PE/IA + IVMP and 60 IVMP) were included in the analysis. There were significant differences in EDSS [6.25 vs. 6.75; IQR (4.50–8.38 vs. 5.00–8.00), p = 0.671] and visual acuity [median logMAR = 0.35 vs. 1.00; IQR (0.30–0.84 vs. 0.95–1.96), p = 0.002] change between two groups at 6 months. PE/IA + IVMP treatment demonstrated predictive capacity for good recovery as indicated by an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.726. Fibrinogen reduction was found during PE/IA + IVMP treatment [n = 15 (50.00%)], but no severe adverse events led to apheresis treatment discontinuation. Discussion: After PSM analysis, IVMP+PE/IA in acute attack of NMOSD achieved better and continuous improvement in neurological function within 6 months compared with IVMP alone. PE/IA treatment showed a good safety profile. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Retinoblastoma (RB) is a rare primary malignant tumor primarily affecting children. Our study aims to compare the overall survival (OS) between pediatric and adult RB patients and establish a predictive model for adult RB patients' OS to assist clinical decision-making. This study retrospectively analyzed data from 1938 RB patients in the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database, covering the period from 2000 to 2015. Propensity score matching (PSM) ensured balanced characteristics between pediatric and adult groups. A Cox proportional hazards regression model was used to assess prognostic factors, and selected variables were utilized to construct a predictive survival model. The Nomogram model's performance was evaluated through the C-index, time-dependent ROC curves, calibration curves, and decision curve analysis (DCA). Following PSM, adult RB patients had lower OS compared to pediatric RB patients. Independent prognostic factors for adult RB OS included age, gender, disease stage, radiation therapy, income, and diagnosis confirmation. In the training cohort, the Nomogram achieved a C-index for OS of 0.686 and accurately predicted 2-year, 3-year, and 5-year OS with AUC values of 0.672, 0.680, and 0.660, respectively. The C-index, time-dependent ROC curves, calibration curves, and DCA in both training and validation cohorts confirmed the Nomogram's excellent performance. In this study, adult RB patients have worse OS than pediatric RB patients. Consequently, we constructed a Nomogram to predict the risk for adult RB patients. The Nomogram demonstrated good accuracy and reliability, making it suitable for widespread application in clinical practice to assist healthcare professionals in assessing patients' prognoses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aims to theoretically and empirically test whether the Weather Index Insurance for Mutton Sheep (WIMS) which protects the herders from increased feeding costs resulting from drought and snow disasters promotes the income of herders in China's Inner Mongolia or not. We have applied the OLS, PSM, and quantile regression models using field survey data from 261 herders in Xilin Gol, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region for our objective. The findings demonstrate that the WIMS significantly increases the overall and high-income herders' income, but has no significant effect on herders' income at other income levels. According to the results, we recommend that as the subsidized agricultural insurance product, the government should expand the pilot region of WIMS to furtherly test its income effect and consider reducing or exempting insurance premiums for low-income herders to reduce their financial pressure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction We evaluated risk factors for biochemical recurrence (BCR) after robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) based on our department database. Material and methods Patients who underwent RARP between 2018 and 2020 were identified and included in our retrospective study. Patients who received neoadjuvant treatment, patients with positive lymph nodes, salvage prostatectomies, and patients with missing data were excluded. BCR was defined as PSA ≥0.2 ng/ml. Parameters that were investigated were the International Society of Urological Pathologists (ISUP) score, stage, and positive surgical margins (PSM) as they were reported in the pathology report. A subgroup analysis based on the tumour stage was performed. Results A total of 414 patients were included in the analysis. Seventy-seven of them experienced BCR. Based on multivariable analysis, ISUP grade was a strong predictor for BCR with odds ratio (OR): 2.86 (CI: 1.49–5.65; p = 0.002), OR: 5.90 (CI: 1.81–18.6; p = 0.003), OR: 4.63 (CI: 1.79–11.9; p = 0.001) for ISUP grade 3, 4, 5, respectively. Regarding tumour stage, pT2 and pT3a did not show any significant difference in predicting BCR (p = 0.11), whereas pT3b stage was a predictor for BCR with OR: 6.2 (CI: 2.25–17.7; p < 0.001). In the subgroup analysis for 206 patients with pT2 disease, ISUP group and PSM were predictors for BCR. On the other hand, when patients with pT3 disease were inspected, the only parameter that was predictive of BCR was pT3b disease (OR: 4.68, CI: 1.71–13.6; p = 0.003). ISUP grade, the extent of T3 disease, and the extent and ISUP grade of surgical margins were not predictors of BCR. Conclusions The most important risk factors for BCR after RARP are ISUP grade and tumour stage. In pT2 disease, PSM is a significant predictor of BCR, along with high ISUP grade. The substage pT3b can be considered a predictor of BCR in pT3 cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, due attention was given to the commercialization of smallholder agriculture through contact farming, hoping that it would bring the positive impact on the income of smallholder producer in Ethiopia. This article presents the results of data analysis conducted to generate empirical data required to inform the smallholder agricultural commercialization policy using data collected from 424 (194 participants and 230 non-participants) randomly selected vegetables producer farmers from the 2 districts of the East shewa zone of the Oromia Regional State, Ethiopia. The propensity score matching was used to assess the impact of contract farming (CF) on smallholder farmers' income in the study area. The probit model result shows that, the proportion of total crop area allocated to vegetables, access to credit, frequency of extension contacts, market information, and distance of the market center havepositive and significance effects on decision of vegetable producers to participate on the CF. The impact assessment result using PSM reveals that, gross annual income of the contract participants were lower by the 3.8% (Birr 2942) as compared to the non- participants. This implies that, local context matters for the success of CF and improves their livelihood. However, some of the CF participants would like to continue for access of production inputs, access to credit, technical advice and to reduce marketing risks and uncertainty. In conclusion, CF is a useful institutional arrangement which increases smallholders' income and benefit from remunerative value chains agriculture, but it is not a panacea that works in different contexts. Hence, policy makers should base their choices on empirical evidence and local context to consider alternative and complementary intervention options to enhance smallholder commercialization and ensure sustainable livelihood in the research area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metal nanoparticles (MNPs) have garnered significant attention due to their exceptional performance in heterogeneous reactions. Meanwhile, extensive applications have been found for metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), known for their ordered structure and high surface area. In this study, MNPs particles were amalgamated with MOFs to create a core-shell structure and were introduced amino groups into this configuration through post-synthetic modification (PSM), resulting in the successful synthesis of six distinct nanomaterials. Comprehensive characterization techniques, including infrared spectroscopy (IR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), confirmed the synthesis and modification of the MNPs/MOFs materials. These synthesized materials were employed as catalysts for the condensation reaction of jasminaldehyde. It is noteworthy that these catalysts exhibited outstanding performance, showcasing advantages over traditional heterogeneous catalysts. This superior performance is attributed in part to the advanced core-shell structure of these materials and the effective introduction of amino functional groups through the PSM technique. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A general guide how to implement process safety management (PSM) is missing in the literature. This article provides general procedure to implement PSM which any industry in underdeveloped, developing and developed countries can adopt to start PSM implementation. PSM implementation can be initiated through the proposed framework consisting of four steps: (1) PSM introduction, (2) Assigning departmental wise PSM duties, (3) Trainings and (4) Audits and improvements. Trainings include process hazard analysis (PHA) using Integrated What‐If/HAZOP analysis, quantitative risk assessments using ALOHA or equivalent software, PSM forms developments and other trainings. In a case study, ammonia release is estimated and quantified using ALOHA. Nine various forms for PSM are required to be developed for industry implementing PSM. Various trainings should be arranged including specific learning outcomes and few examples are discussed in this article. An audit scheme is proposed for any new industry implementing PSM. PSM elements implementation sequence is discussed. New established industries can adopt this procedure to implement PSM following suggested forms and sequences, which can help engineers in understanding PSM implementation. This PSM implementation proposed framework is being implemented in the fertilizer industry and caustic industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Different social protection programs are designed in low‐income countries to eradicate poverty and improve the food security of poor people. Currently, the Urban Productive Safety Net Program (UPSNP) is designed to support those who are living in poverty and face food insecurity with predictable and reliable support through food, cash, or vouchers. However, limited empirical evidence has been presented about the significant impact of the program on the well‐being of households who participated in the program and the factors that affect the households' decision to participate in the program. Hence, this study aims to evaluate the impact of participation in UPSNP on well‐being using household survey data gathered from three main cities of Ethiopia: Dire Dawa, Harar, and Jigjiga in 2022. This study employed both propensity score matching (PSM) and endogenous switching regression (ESR) models to assess the impact of the UPSNP. The result shows that the probability of a household's participation decision is determined by the age of the household head, number of children, savings, house ownership, employment status of the household head, and shock. Furthermore, we found a consistently positive impact across models, indicating that participation in UPSNP reduces poverty and increases food security of households. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The establishment of a pilot free trade zone (PFTZ) in an economy has motivated researchers to examine whether this supply-side policy fosters innovation efficiency and the associated transmission mechanism. The policy aligns with the concepts of agglomeration economics, which considers that clustering industries and firms in specific geographic areas can enhance knowledge exchange, economies of scale, network effects and access to diverse talent pools. Utilising provincial panel data spanning from 2006 to 2019, this study evaluates how China's PFTZs have affected regional innovation efficiency (RIE). The results indicate that PFTZs have the potential to enhance RIE, with the digital economy serving as an effective catalyst for bolstering this positive influence. Consequently, expanding the PFTZs and establishing new ones can prove pivotal in attracting additional foreign investments and stimulating RIE in the post-COVID era. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectively In objective terms, the return of rural labor force shortens the spatial distance with parents, leading to changes in caregiving support, emotional support, and financial support for parents, thereby affecting the health status of parents. This article, using data from the Chinese Family Panel Studies, analyzes the characteristics of the health status of parents with and without returning migrant children. By employing multiple linear regression models, PSM models, and IV-2SLS methods to address endogeneity bias, the study preliminarily explores the impact of rural labor force return on parental health. The results show that: (1) among the 5,760 older adult individuals, 1866 of them have returning migrant chil-dren, while the remaining 3,894 do not have returning migrant children. (2) Parents’ health status generally follows a normal distribution, with a small proportion of parents having very poor or very good health. The proportions of parents with relatively poor, fair, and relatively good health status range between 20 and 40%. Among parents with returning chil-dren, 40.12% have relatively poor health status, 45.01% have fair health status, and a small proportion have very poor or very good health status. In contrast, among parents without returning children, the proportions of parents with relatively poor, fair, and rela-tively good health status are 21.69, 33.21, and 38.45%, respectively. When parents tran-sition from not having returning children to having returning children, their health status decreases by 0.541 levels, indicating a negative impact of rural labor force return on par-ents’ health. Based on the analysis results, this article provides policy recommendations from three aspects: how to increase the income of returning labor force, improve the rural pension system, and enhance the concept of children supporting their parents.

Several studies have compared the transcriptome across various brain regions in Huntington’s disease (HD) gene-positive and neurologically normal individuals to identify potential differentially expressed genes (DEGs) that could be pharmaceutical or prognostic targets for HD. Despite adhering to technical recommendations for optimal RNA-Seq analysis, none of the genes identified as upregulated in these studies have yet demonstrated success as prognostic or therapeutic targets for HD. Earlier studies included samples from neurologically normal individuals older than the HD gene-positive group. Considering the gradual transcriptional changes induced by aging in the brain, we posited that utilizing samples from older controls could result in the misidentification of DEGs. To validate our hypothesis, we reanalyzed 146 samples from this study, accessible on the SRA database, and employed Propensity Score Matching (PSM) to create a “virtual” control group with a statistically comparable age distribution to the HD gene-positive group. Our study underscores the adverse impact of using neurologically normal individuals over 75 as controls in gene differential expression analysis, resulting in false positives and negatives. We conclusively demonstrate that using such old controls leads to the misidentification of DEGs, detrimentally affecting the discovery of potential pharmaceutical and prognostic markers. This underscores the pivotal role of considering the age of control samples in RNA-Seq analysis and emphasizes its inclusion in evaluating best practices for such investigations. Although our primary focus is HD, our findings suggest that judiciously selecting age-appropriate control samples can significantly improve best practices in differential expression analysis.

Abstract Background Chronic kidney disease (CKD), often coexisting with various systemic disorders, may increase the risk of falls. Our study aimed to assess the prevalence and risk of falls among patients with CKD in China. Methods We included patients with/without CKD from China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS). Our primary outcome was the occurrence of fall accidents within the past 2 years. To enhance the robustness of our findings, we employed a multivariable logistic regression model, conducted propensity score analysis, and applied an inverse probability-weighting model. Results A total of 12,658 participants were included, the prevalence of fall accident rates were 17.1% (2,028/11,837) among participants without CKD and 24.7% (203/821) among those with CKD. In the inverse probability-weighting model, participants with CKD exhibited higher fall accident rates (OR = 1.28, 95% CI: 1.08–1.53, p = 0.005 ). Sensitivity and subgroup analysis showed the results still stable. Conclusions The population in China afflicted with CKD has a significantly heightened risk of experiencing falls, underscoring the crucial importance of intensifying efforts in assessing and preventing fall risks.