Key Determinant Research Articles

Local Leaders’ Promotion Pressure and Tourism Development: Evidence From China

The growing importance of tourism management within local governance highlights the imperative role of local leaders’ involvement. However, the understudied influence of promotion pressure, a key determinant of their behavior, remains largely unexplored. This study employs a novel institutional economics approach to investigate the impact of local leaders’ promotion pressure on tourism development in China. We analyze data from 334 prefecture-level cities spanning 1999 to 2019. Our findings reveal a positive correlation between promotion pressure and tourism development. Notably, this effect is amplified in economically advanced cities and those with a lower dependence on tourism. Further analysis using an instrumental variable-based mediation model suggests that promotion pressure shapes tourism development by influencing the structure of local government fiscal expenditure. These findings shed light on the intricate interplay between political incentives, fiscal policy, and the evolution of the tourism industry, offering valuable insights for crafting effective tourism governance strategies.

Determinants of Humanities and Social Sciences Students’ Intentions to Use Artificial Intelligence Applications for Academic Purposes

Recent research emphasizes the importance of Artificial Intelligence applications as supporting tools for students in higher education. Simultaneously, an intensive exchange of views has started in the public debate in the international educational community. However, for a more proper use of these applications, it is necessary to investigate the factors that explain their intention and actual use in the future. With the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT2) model, this work analyses the factors influencing students’ use and intention to use Artificial Intelligence technology. For this purpose, a sample of 197 Greek students at the School of Humanities and Social Sciences from the University of Patras participated in a survey. The findings highlight that expected performance, habit, and enjoyment of these Artificial Intelligence applications are key determinants influencing teachers’ intentions to use them. Moreover, behavioural intention, habit, and facilitating conditions explain the usage of these Artificial Intelligence applications. This study did not reveal any moderating effects. The limitations, practical implications, and proposed directions for future research based on these results are discussed.

A Comparative Study on the International Competitiveness of Digital Trade between China and Malaysia: A Diamond Model Approach

This study examines the international competitiveness of digital trade between China and Malaysia using Michael Porter's Diamond Model. The Diamond Model, which focuses on four key determinants—factor conditions, demand conditions, related and supporting industries, and firm strategy, structure, and rivalry—serves as the analytical framework for this comparative analysis. In assessing factor conditions, the study evaluates the digital infrastructure, human capital, and technological innovation capabilities in both countries. Demand conditions are analyzed through consumer behaviors, market size, and the growth rate of the digital economy. The presence and strength of related and supporting industries, such as e-commerce platforms, fintech, and ICT services, are considered to understand their role in enhancing digital trade competitiveness. The study also examines firm strategies, government policies, and the competitive environment that shape the digital trade landscape in China and Malaysia. Findings suggest that China demonstrates a higher level of competitiveness in digital trade, driven by its advanced digital infrastructure, robust innovation ecosystem, and large, tech-savvy consumer base. Malaysia, while showing significant progress, particularly in regulatory frameworks and digital adoption, faces challenges related to scale and innovation intensity. The study highlights the need for Malaysia to invest in digital skills development and innovation to enhance its competitiveness. The comparative insights derived from this study aim to inform policymakers and business leaders on strategic initiatives to bolster digital trade capabilities and foster sustainable economic growth in the digital era.

Exploring Drivers of Wildfires in Spain

Wildfires play a dual role in ecosystems by providing ecological benefits while posing catastrophic events; they also inflict non-catastrophic damage and yield long-term effects on biodiversity, soil quality, and air quality, among other factors, including public health. This study analysed the key determinants of wildland fires in Spain using openly available spatial data from 2008 to 2021, including fire perimeters, bioclimatic variables, topography, and socioeconomic datasets, at a resolution of 1 km2. Our methodology combined principal component analysis (PCA), linear regression analysis, and one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). Our findings show that scrub/herbaceous vegetation (average 63 ± 1.45% SE) and forests (average 19 ± 0.76% SE) have been highly susceptible to wildfires. The population density exhibited a robust positive correlation with wildfire frequency (R2 = 0.88, p < 0.0001). Although the study provides insights into some fire-related climatic drivers over Spain, it includes only temperature and precipitation-based variables and does not explicitly consider fuel dynamics. Therefore, a more advanced methodology should be applied in the future to understand the local specifics of regional wildfire dynamics. Our study identified that scrub/herbaceous areas and forests near densely populated regions should be prioritised for wildfire management in Spain, particularly under changing climate conditions.

Social Statuses, Quality of Social Relationships, and Self-Esteem Among Older Adults in Canada: Resource Multiplication or Substitution?

This research examines how older adults' self-esteem is shaped by core social statuses and ongoing social relationships. Based on a national survey of Canadian older adults (N = 4010), analyses show that men have greater self-esteem than women, as do people with higher quality of social relationships and a high degree of educational attainment. Neither gender nor quality of social relationships intersect with education to shape self-esteem, but quality of social relationships is more strongly associated with self-esteem for women. Consequently, strong gender differences are observed at low levels of relationship quality, but these gender differences are negated at high levels of relationship quality. This research shows that social statuses and relationships cohere to shape self-esteem in later-life, but gender differences are not evident in the context of high-quality social relationships. Conversely, educational attainment appears to be a key determinant of high self-esteem, irrespective of gender or quality of social relationships.

The Influence of Leadership and Work Environment on Employee Performance Mediated by Job Satisfaction and Work Motivation in Pegunungan Bintang Regency's Regional Apparatus Organizations

Aims: Understanding the links between leadership, job satisfaction, work motivation, and employee performance is vital. Effective leadership shapes culture, direction, and employee engagement. Analyzing how leadership influences these factors helps identify areas for improvement, fostering stronger leadership practices and enhancing organizational outcomes. This study aims to comprehensively examine the intricate interplay between leadership, job satisfaction, work motivation, and employee performance within the context of the workplace environment. By investigating the direct and indirect effects of leadership, job satisfaction, and work motivation on employee performance, the research seeks to shed light on the underlying mechanisms that shape organizational outcomes. Furthermore, this study intends to explore how the work environment influences job satisfaction, work motivation, and ultimately, employee performance, offering valuable insights for enhancing workplace dynamics and fostering employee well-being and productivity. Study Design: Mention the design of the study here. Place and Duration of Study: Location to research eight Regional Apparatus Organizations of Pegunungan Bintang Regency whose office address is Jl. Kutdol, Oksibil, Kotdol, Oksibil, Pegunungan Bintang Regency, Papua. the object studied is an employee / ASN who works in the work environment of the Regional Equipment Organization of Pegunungan Bintang Regency. This research will be conducted in 2023 at the Regional Apparatus Organization of Pegunungan Bintang District. Methodology: The data analysis method used in explaining is obtained from field research, based on the proposed hypothesis there are two analytical methods to be used, namely descriptive statistical analysis methods and inferential statistical analysis through the use of Structural Equation Modeling (SEM). Results: The study conducted in regional apparatus organizations in Pegunungan Bintang Regency revealed significant findings. Firstly, it demonstrated that effective leadership positively influences employee job satisfaction. This influence extends to job motivation, wherein leadership plays a pivotal role in fostering a conducive work environment. Moreover, the research emphasized the crucial link between the work environment and employee job satisfaction. A clean and comfortable workspace not only enhances job satisfaction but also stimulates work motivation, thereby improving overall employee performance. Conclusion: Furthermore, job satisfaction was identified as a key determinant of employee motivation within the organizational context. This motivation, in turn, catalyzes enhanced performance. The study underscores the intricate interplay between job satisfaction, work motivation, and employee performance, highlighting the importance of a supportive work environment and effective leadership in driving organizational success in Pegunungan Bintang Regency's regional apparatus organizations.

Mitochondria-specific antioxidant MitoTEMPO alleviates senescence of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells in ovariectomized rats.

Senescence in bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs), triggered by excessive oxidative stress, plays a crucial role in the onset of postmenopausal osteoporosis. Recent studies underscore the importance of mitochondrial rehabilitation and quality control as key determinants in the modulation of oxidative stress and cellular senescence. MitoTEMPO, a mitochondria-targeted antioxidant, has been shown to mitigate the heightened levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS). In our research, we observed that BMSCs from ovariectomized (OVX) rats displayed premature senescence, which was attributed to combined mitochondrial and lysosomal dysfunction, a condition that worsens with extended estrogen deprivation. Treatment with MitoTEMPO effectively reversed these effects, reinstating lysosomal functionality and suppressing the mitochondrial unfolded protein response (UPRmt). Subsequent in vivo experiments corroborated these observations, revealing that MitoTEMPO administration in OVX rats curtailed trabecular bone loss and reduced the expression of p53, HSP60, and CLPP in the trabecular bone region of the proximal tibia. Overall, our findings suggest that MitoTEMPO holds promise as a therapeutic agent to counteract senescence in OVX-BMSCs, offering a potential strategy for treating postmenopausal osteoporosis.

A community evaluation of post-partum quality of life using a locally adapted mother-generated-index: the Delhi Delivery Care (DELCARE) Survey (2009-2011)

ABSTRACT Post-partum quality of life is an inadequately studied and poorly understood outcome of delivery care, especially in low- and middle-income countries. Hence, we evaluated the postpartum quality of life and its clinic-demographic context as part of a 3-stage cluster randomized community survey (DECLARE; covered quality of care as primary outcome) conducted in 2009–2011 in Delhi. In stage 1 of participant selection(sampling), 20 wards (of 150; geographically defined administrative units) were selected using a probability-proportionate-to-size systematic method. In stage 2, one from each income stratum (high, middle, and low; multiple colonies within each ward) was selected from each ward by simple random sampling (total 60 colonies of 2311). In stage 3, a house-to-house survey was conducted to recruit ~1800 recently delivered women for the multidimensional work, which included quality-of-care, cost-of-care, and PPQOL. Among the participants, those with high school or above education were invited to administer the Mother-Generated Index and calculate the primary and secondary index scores (PIS and SIS). A total of 794 (of 857 eligible; 118846 households) women were administered MGI. The mean PIS was 4.6[95 percent CI 4.4–4.7] while the average SIS was 4.0[95 percent CI 3.8–4.2]. The PIS was worse for primiparous vs. multiparous mothers. On multivariate analysis, poorer psychological state, obstetric complications, and premature delivery correlated with poorer QOL scores, while better gestational weight gain, higher age, and labor-pain relief correlated with better QOL scores. The study benchmarks the poor status of post-partum quality-of-life and documents the spectrum, severity, and complexity of its key social, psychological, physical, and demographic determinants.

Beyond the incident: Influences on the perception of multiple instances of discrimination.

This article seeks to enhance the theoretical understanding of discrimination perception, especially in contexts with relevant statistical information. Previous research has provided important insights into the perception of single, ambiguous instances of discrimination. However, the generalizability of these insights to scenarios involving multiple, repeated instances of discrimination remains unclear. The current research aims to reduce this uncertainty by investigating whether three key determinants of discrimination perception in single instances - perpetrators' prototypicality, victims' control, and system-justifying beliefs (SJB) - also influence observers' perceptions of repeated discrimination. In Experiments 1 and 2, participants perceived stronger discrimination when perpetrators were prejudiced members of the advantaged group. In Experiments 3 and 4, perceived discrimination intensified when victims had low control, a trend significantly noted in tabular presentations but not in sequential ones. In Experiments 5 and 6, a negative correlation between SJB and discrimination perception was observed. The theoretical and practical implications of these results, as well as open questions, are discussed. Overall, these studies advance our knowledge of discrimination perception in multiple instances. They highlight the intricate interplay between statistical data, moral judgements, and individual belief systems, paving the way for a more nuanced exploration of the underlying psychological processes of discrimination perception.

Understanding the link between climate change adaptation and household food security among shrimp farmers in Indonesia

This study investigates the impact of climate change adaptation strategies on household food security in Indonesia based on a comprehensive analysis of data from 445 shrimp farmers. Employing the innovative Two Stage Predictor Substitution (2SPS) method, the research reveals key determinants influencing farmers' decisions to adopt adaptation measures. Factors such as mechanization, proximity to main roads, cultivated land area, participation in field schools, and individual perceptions of climate change significantly affect climate change adaptation. Importantly, the study uncovers a strong positive relationship between the level of adaptation implemented and household food security among shrimp farmers. This correlation means that the more intense the adaptation practices are, the better the household food security status will be. This study also demonstrates that the impact of climate change adaptation on food security is particularly pronounced among farmers with lower income levels and smaller cultivated land areas. This positive effect diminishes for households with higher income levels and larger land areas. These findings underscore the need to tailor adaptation strategies, particularly for small-scale farmers, and customize interventions to ensure food security in the face of climate change challenges.

Three musketeers of PDA-based MRI contrasting and therapy

Polydopamine (PDA) stands as a versatile material explored in cancer nanomedicine for its unique properties, offering opportunities for multifunctional drug delivery platforms. This study explores the potential of utilizing a one-pot synthesis to concurrently integrate Fe, Gd and Mn ions into porous PDA-based theranostic drug delivery platforms called Ferritis, Gadolinis and Manganis, respectively. Our investigation spans the morphology, magnetic properties, photothermal characteristics and cytotoxicity profiles of those potent nanoformulations. The obtained structures showcase a spherical morphology, robust magnetic response and promising photothermal behaviour. All of the presented nanoparticles (NPs) display pronounced paramagnetism, revealing contrasting potential for MRI imaging. Relaxivity values, a key determinant of contrast efficacy, demonstrated competitive or superior performance compared to established, used contrasting agents. These nanoformulations also exhibited robust photothermal properties under near infra-red irradiation, showcasing their possible application for photothermal therapy of cancer. Our findings provide insights into the potential of metal-doped PDA NPs for cancer theranostics.

Integrating Knowledge Management into Marketing for Enhanced Decision-Making and Performance

The integration of knowledge management (KM) into marketing strategies has become increasingly vital for organizations striving to enhance decision-making processes and overall performance in today's dynamic business landscape. This study aims to explore the multifaceted nature of KM integration in marketing contexts and its implications for organizational success.The researches design employed a systematic literature review to synthesize insights from diverse perspectives and shed light on key determinants of KM effectiveness. Findings reveal that organizational readiness, user acceptance, and system usability emerge as critical factors influencing the effectiveness of KM in supporting marketing decision-making. Organizational culture, leadership support, and technological infrastructure play pivotal roles in shaping KM initiatives and driving organizational performance outcomes. The implications of this study underscore the importance of addressing challenges related to organizational culture, leadership support, and technological infrastructure to maximize the benefits of KM in marketing contexts. By adopting proactive measures and a holistic approach to KM implementation, organizations can leverage their knowledge assets more effectively and gain a competitive edge in the marketplace.

Non-invasive mapping of atrial slow-conduction areas and validation by endocardial isochronal mapping to predict atrial fibrillation recurrence after ablation

Abstract Background Atrial arrythmogenic substrate is a key determinant of arrhythmia recurrence after pulmonary vein isolation (PVI), and reduced conduction velocities have been linked to adverse outcome. However, a non-invasive method to assess such electrical substrate is not available to date. Purpose We have developed and validated a non-invasive mapping system based on electrocardiographic imaging (ECGi) to assess local conduction velocities and their predictive value regarding 12-months arrhythmia-free survival following PVI. Methods A novel ECGi-based non-invasive mapping system obviating the need of additional CT- or CMR-imaging was developed. 52 consecutive patients scheduled for AF ablation (PVI-only) and 19 healthy controls were prospectively included and local left and right atrial conduction velocities determined in sinus rhythm through non-invasive mapping. In 36 of the patients high density endocardial mapping was performed to define areas of slow conduction based on isochronal late activation maps. AF ablation patients were systematically followed and monitored for 12 months post ablation. Results Mean ECGi-determined atrial conduction velocities were significantly lower in AF patients (54% paroxysmal) than in healthy controls (1.45±0.15 vs. 1.64±0.15 m/s; p<0.0001). Differences were even more pronounced in a regional analysis (Fig. 1A). In this analysis we focused only on the segment with the slowest average conduction velocity in a given patient, i.e. the region that was most likely to harbour arrhythmogenic substrate. Multivariable regression analyses and c-statistics found this average conduction velocity of the „slowest" segment (AUC 0.74) to predict 12-months arrhythmia recurrence after PVI better than previously proposed non-invasive predictors including left atrial size (AUC 0.71) or the left atrial extent of late gadolinium enhancement (MRI) (AUC 0.70). A ROC analysis found a regional conduction velocity threshold of 0.78 m/s to best discriminate PVI responders from non-responders. Patients without slow-conduction areas (mean conduction velocity <0.78 m/s) showed significantly higher 12-months arrhythmia-free survival than those with one or more slow-conduction areas (88.9% versus 48.0%, p=0.002) (Fig. 1B). For validation we compared slow-conduction areas determined by non-invasive mapping with slow-conduction areas as defined by invasive isochronal mapping. Interrater reliability testing revealed good agreement between non-invasive mapping-determined slow-conduction areas and those defined by isochronal mapping (kappa 0.63, Fig. 2). Conclusions ECGi-based non-invasive mapping reliably identifies areas of slow conduction. The presence of ECGi-determined slow-conduction areas well discriminates PVI-responders from non-responders. Such non-invasive assessment of electrical arrhythmogenic substrate may guide treatment strategies and could be a step towards personalised AF therapy.Figure 1Figure 2

User satisfaction with the National Health Insurance Program: A community-based survey from the Ilam district of Nepal.

The Government of Nepal initiated a family-based National Health Insurance Program (NHIP) in April 2016, aiming to ensure universal health coverage (UHC) by enhancing access to and utilization of quality health services. However, NHIP, in its initial years of implementation, encountered challenges such as low population coverage, a high dropout rate, and concerns among the insured regarding the quality of healthcare services. There is a dearth of information regarding user satisfaction with the NHIP in Nepal. This study aimed to assess user satisfaction with NHIP at the household level in Nepal. We conducted a cross-sectional study among 347 households in the Ilam district using a multi-stage random sampling method. Face-to-face interviews were conducted with household heads enrolled in NHIP. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect the data. The multivariable logistic regression analysis was done to identify the predictors of satisfaction level. Overall, 53.6% of the insured were satisfied with the NHIP, while 31.1% had comprehensive knowledge about the NHIP. Factors such as gender (AOR: 1.80, 95% CI: 1.08-3.00), distance to the first point of contact (AOR: 2.15, 95% CI: 1.24-3.74), waiting time (AOR: 2.02, 95% CI: 1.20-3.42), availability of diagnostic services (AOR: 1.90, 95% CI: 1.05-3.45), availability of prescribed medicine (AOR: 3.90, 95% CI: 1.97-7.69), perceived service quality (AOR: 2.20, 95% CI: 1.15-4.20), and the behavior of service providers (AOR: 3.48, 95% CI: 1.04-11.63) were significantly associated with user satisfaction. The satisfaction level among NHIP users was deemed moderate. This study highlighted several factors, such as gender, distance to the first point of contact, waiting time, availability of diagnostic services and prescribed medicine, perceived service quality, and the behavior of service providers, as key determinants impacting user satisfaction. Recognizing the pivotal role of user satisfaction, health insurance stakeholders must prioritize it to ensure higher retention rates and coverage within NHIP.

Key Factors Impacting Business Performance an Investigation of Firms in Vietnam

This study examines factors affecting company performance on the Ho Chi Minh Stock Exchange from 2008 to 2020, analyzing internal and external variables, including the Covid-19 pandemic's impact. Using data from 40 firms and macroeconomic indicators, advanced econometric models identify key determinants of Return on Assets (ROA). Findings suggest financial leverage and operating leverage enhance ROA, while asset size and consumer inflation have mixed effects. Industrial production positively correlates with ROA, whereas the pandemic negatively impacts corporate performance. These insights inform strategic management and policy-making for economic resilience.

#2671 Renal tubular epithelial FFAR4 improves cellular senescence to alleviate interstitial fibrosis in CKD

Abstract Background and Aims Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is defined as an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) < 60 ml/min/1.73 m2 or pathological albuminuria, which is known as one of the major contributors to worldwide mortality. Although there have been substantial advances in understanding CKD mechanisms, at present, there are no effective therapies to treat it. We had formerly found that TUG891, a free fatty acid receptor 4 (FFAR4) (a member of the G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) family) agonist, alleviated tubular damage as well as interstitial fibrosis in mice with CKD. Nevertheless, the multifunctional effects of FFAR4 in the kidney have not been well described. Method In the current research, the FFAR4 expression was abnormally reduced in tubular epithelial cells (TECs) of unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) and adenine-induced CKD mice. Systemic and conditional TEC-specific knockout of FFAR4 aggravated renal function, pathological damage and interstitial fibrosis, whereas FFAR4 activation by TUG-891 alleviated the severity of disease in UUO and adenine-induced CKD mice. Results Notably, FFAR4, as a key determinant, was firstly explored to regulate the cellular senescence in TECs and CKD mice injured kidneys, as represented through the activity of senescence associated β-galactosidase (SA-β-gal), marker protein p21, p53, Lamin B1, phospho-histone H2A.X, phospho-Rb expression, and secretory phenotype IL-6 level. Mechanistically, pharmacological activation and overexpression of FFAR4 reversed the decrease of aging-related SirT3 protein, where FFAR4 regulated SirT3 expression to exhibit anti-senescent effect via Gq subunit-mediated CaMKKβ/AMPK signaling in UUO and adenine-induced CKD mice. Conclusion These results underline the primordial role of renal tubular FFAR4 in the cellular senescence through AMPK/SirT3 signaling and define FFAR4 as a target for underlying drugs against CKD.

G-Protein and G-Protein Coupled Receptors: Implications in Regulation of Immune Response

The guanine nucleotide binding proteins (G proteins) act as molecular switches of ‘on’ and ‘off’ when bound to GTP and GDP respectively while the guanine protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) are membrane bound receptors whereby extracellular substances (ligands)communicate signals from these substances to an intracellular molecule the G-proteins which in turn bind and activate or inhibit downstream effect or molecules causing cellular responses. This review is aimed at exploring the concept and mechanism of G-proteins and GPCR and their implication in immune response. The GPCR can be activated by various physiological or pathological processes cellular metabolism, hormones, neuro-transmitters, chemokines, autocrines, paracrines, endocrine and exocrine secretions which play an important role in relaying or routing signals to several intracellular pathways. The signal transduction by the extracellular activation or inhibition of the GPCR mediate metabolic enzymes, ion channels, transporters, cellular gene transcription, migration, survival, activation, differentiation and cytokine secretion of immune cells resulting in the synthesis and regulation of embryonic development, gonadal development, learning /memory organismal homeostasis, hematopoiesis and immune dynamics. Therefore, G proteins and GPCRs signaling systems are key determinants in innate and adaptive immunity. The signal transduction of G-Protein and GPCR by cytokine chemotaxis as Chronic inflammatory mediators is associated with tumorigenesis, metastasis with potential antagonism for appropriate targeted therapy.

Dengue Treatment-Seeking Behavior: A Qualitative Study With Costa Rican Residents.

Treatment-seeking behavior (TSB) in relation to dengue infection is a critical aspect of public health, and understanding the factors that influence it is crucial for effective disease management. This research delves into key determinants of dengue TSB by examining the perceptions and behaviors of individuals in Costa Rica, in relation to the Health Belief Model (HBM). This study utilized naturalistic inquiry and incorporated a qualitative research design involving nine students organized into four teams, with at least one student on each team with high Spanish fluency. In total, we initiated 102 semi-structured field interviews with Costa Rican residents in four communities. The interviews were recorded, transcribed verbatim, and coded in several cycles using MAXQDA 2022©. Thematic analysis was used to identify patterns and themes using an inductive approach. We found that several HBM themes influenced dengue TSB among participants. Self-treatment was the most common initial step in managing dengue. Perceived inaccessibility of health care services and perceived ineffective treatment options discouraged medical care-seeking. Ultimately, the prevalence of self-treatment practices suggests a need for interventions that emphasize the importance of timely professional medical attention, while addressing real barriers and perceptions of existing health care services as inaccessible and ineffective. These findings provide a key perspective on dengue TSB, guiding future public health strategies aimed at optimizing health-seeking behaviors and mitigating the negative impacts of dengue on population health.

Genome-wide characterisation of HD-Zip transcription factors and functional analysis of PbHB24 during stone cell formation in Chinese white pear (Pyrus bretschneideri)

BackgroundThe homodomain-leucine zipper (HD-Zip) is a conserved transcription factor family unique to plants that regulate multiple developmental processes including lignificaion. Stone cell content is a key determinant negatively affecting pear fruit quality, which causes a grainy texture of fruit flesh, because of the lignified cell walls.ResultsIn this study, a comprehensive bioinformatics analysis of HD-Zip genes in Chinese white pear (Pyrus bretschneideri) (PbHBs) was performed. Genome-wide identification of the PbHB gene family revealed 67 genes encoding PbHB proteins, which could be divided into four subgroups (I, II, III, and IV). For some members, similar intron/exon structural patterns support close evolutionary relationships within the same subgroup. The functions of each subgroup of the PbHB family were predicted through comparative analysis with the HB genes in Arabidopsis and other plants. Cis-element analysis indicated that PbHB genes might be involved in plant hormone signalling and external environmental responses, such as light, stress, and temperature. Furthermore, RNA-sequencing data and quantitative real-time PCR (RT-qPCR) verification revealed the regulatory roles of PbHB genes in pear stone cell formation. Further, co-expression network analysis revealed that the eight PbHB genes could be classified into different clusters of co-expression with lignin-related genes. Besides, the biological function of PbHB24 in promoting stone cell formation has been demonstrated by overexpression in fruitlets.ConclusionsThis study provided the comprehensive analysis of PbHBs and highlighted the importance of PbHB24 during stone cell development in pear fruits.

Health-Related Behaviors and Academic Achievement Among College Students.

College students' academic achievement has crucial implications for their future success. Students' health may be a key determinant of academic performance, but more research is needed to understand this relationship. Secondary analysis of the American College Health Association-National College Health Assessment III pre-COVID-19 Spring 2020 dataset. N = 39146 undergraduates at 75 higher education institutions (14% mean response rate, comparable with other large-scale national college health surveys). Self-reported grade point average (GPA) and 33 health behaviors in the categories of dietary behavior, physical activity, sedentary behavior, substance use, sexual risk behavior, violence-related behavior, mental health, and sleep behavior. Weighted cross-tabulations examining the association between GPA and health behaviors; multinomial logistic regressions assessing if behaviors predicted GPA, controlling for year, sex/gender, and race/ethnicity. Individual GPA categories were also compared to a D/F referent group. There were gradient trends across GPA categories for A through D/F (18 behaviors) or A through C (12 behaviors) (P < .001). Each health behavior predicted GPA differences (P < .001), except heroin use (P = .052). The A GPA group was significantly different from the D/F GPA group for 27 behaviors (P < .001). In general, protective behaviors corresponded with higher GPAs and most risk behaviors were associated with lower GPAs. There is a link between numerous health behaviors and academic performance. Stakeholders invested in college students' health and academics should engage in mutually beneficial strategies to safeguard students' current and future well-being and success.