Pairwise Tests Research Articles

Clinical Variant Reclassification in Hereditary Disease Genetic Testing.

Because accurate and consistent classification of DNA sequence variants is fundamental to germline genetic testing, understanding patterns of initial variant classification (VC) and subsequent reclassification from large-scale, empirical data can help improve VC methods, promote equity among race, ethnicity, and ancestry (REA) groups, and provide insights to inform clinical practice. To measure the degree to which initial VCs met certainty thresholds set by professional guidelines and quantify the rates of, the factors associated with, and the impact of reclassification among more than 2 million variants. This cohort study used clinical multigene panel and exome sequencing data from diagnostic testing for hereditary disorders, carrier screening, or preventive genetic screening from individuals for whom genetic testing was performed between January 1, 2015, and June 30, 2023. DNA variants were classified into 1 of 5 categories: benign, likely benign, variant of uncertain significance (VUS), likely pathogenic, or pathogenic. The main outcomes were accuracy of classifications, rates and directions of reclassifications, evidence contributing to reclassifications, and their impact across different clinical areas and REA groups. One-way analysis of variance followed by post hoc pairwise Tukey honest significant difference tests were used to analyze differences among means, and pairwise Pearson χ2 tests with Bonferroni corrections were used to compare categorical variables among groups. The cohort comprised 3 272 035 individuals (median [range] age, 44 [0-89] years; 2 240 506 female [68.47%] and 1 030 729 male [31.50%]; 216 752 Black [6.62%]; 336 414 Hispanic [10.28%]; 1 804 273 White [55.14%]). Among 2 051 736 variants observed over 8 years in this cohort, 94 453 (4.60%) were reclassified. Some variants were reclassified more than once, resulting in 105 172 total reclassification events. The majority (64 752 events [61.65%]) were changes from VUS to either likely benign, benign, likely pathogenic, or pathogenic categories. An additional 37.66% of reclassifications (39 608 events) were gains in classification certainty to terminal categories (ie, likely benign to benign and likely pathogenic to pathogenic). Only a small fraction (663 events [0.63%]) moved toward less certainty, or very rarely (61 events [0.06%]) were classification reversals. When normalized by the number of individuals tested, VUS reclassification rates were higher among specific underrepresented REA populations (Ashkenazi Jewish, Asian, Black, Hispanic, Pacific Islander, and Sephardic Jewish). Approximately one-half of VUS reclassifications (37 074 of 64 840 events [57.18%]) resulted from improved use of data from computational modeling. In this cohort study of individuals undergoing genetic testing, the empirically estimated accuracy of pathogenic, likely pathogenic, benign, and likely benign classifications exceeded the certainty thresholds set by current VC guidelines, suggesting the need to reevaluate definitions of these classifications. The relative contribution of various strategies to resolve VUS, including emerging machine learning-based computational methods, RNA analysis, and cascade family testing, provides useful insights that can be applied toward further improving VC methods, reducing the rate of VUS, and generating more definitive results for patients.

Radiotherapy as a metastasis directed therapy for liver oligometastases - comparative analysis between CT-guided interstitial HDR brachytherapy and two SBRT modalities performed on double-layer and single layer LINACs

IntroductionSurgical resection is gold standard for treatment of liver metastasis, locally ablative techniques including computer tomography (CT)-guided interstitial high-dose-rate (HDR) brachytherapy (CT-BRT) and stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) have gained prominence as alternatives, offering comparable outcomes in selected patients. We aim to compare CT-BRT and SBRT - based on dosimetric analysis.Material and methodsPatients who underwent CT-BRT for oligometastatic, ≤4cm liver metastases between 2018 and 2024 were eligible. SBRT plans for Halcyon (SBRTh) and TrueBeam (SBRTtb) were prepared virtually. In the CT-BRT group CTV was equal to PTV, for SBRTh and SBRTtb planning, a 5 mm margin was applied to CTV to create PTV. Dose calculation was carried out with the TG-43 algorithm for CT-BRT and Anisotropic Analytical Algorithm for SBRTh and SBRTtb group. Descriptive statistics were used to compare the data. The Wilcoxon pairwise order test was utilized to compare dependent groups.ResultsCT-BRT resulted in a more favorable dose distribution within PTVs for Dmean, D50, and D90, while SBRT showed better results for D98 and V27.5Gy. No significant differences were observed for V25Gy between CT-BRT and SBRTtb, but SBRTh favored over CT-BRT. For OARs, CT-BRT plans showed better values for V5, V10, and V11.6Gy in the uninvolved liver volume. There were no significant differences in dose distribution for the duodenum, bowel, and heart. SBRT modalities performed better in the kidney. CT-BRT had improved dose distribution in the esophagus, great vessels, ribs, skin, spinal cord, and stomach compared to SBRT.ConclusionsCT-BRT could be a viable alternative to SBRT for certain patients with liver malignancies.

Saturation transfer (CEST and MT) MRI for characterization of U-87 MG glioma in the rat.

The focus of this work was to identify the optimal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast between orthotopic U-87 MG tumours and normal appearing brain with the eventual goal of treatment response monitoring. U-87 MG human glioblastoma cells were injected into the brain of RNU nude rats (n= 9). The rats were imaged at 7T at three timepoints for all animals: 3-5, 7-9, and 11-13 days after implantation. Whole-brain T1-weighted (before and after gadolinium contrast agent injection), diffusion, and fluid-attenuated inversion recovery scans were performed. In addition, single-slice saturation-transfer-weighted chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST), magnetization transfer (MT), and water saturation shift referencing (WASSR) contrast Z-spectra and T1 and T2 maps were also acquired. The MT and WASSR Z-spectra and T1 map were fitted to a two-pool quantitative MT model to estimate the T2 of the free and macromolecular-bound water molecules, the relative macromolecular pool size (M0, MT), and the magnetization exchange rate from the macromolecular pool to the free pool (RMT). The T1-corrected apparent exchange-dependent relaxation (AREX) metric to isolate the CEST contributions was also calculated. The lesion on M0, MT and AREX maps with a B1 of 2μT best matched the hyperintensity on the post-contrast T1-weighted image. There was also good separation in Z-spectra between the lesion and contralateral cortex in the 2-μT CEST and 3- and 5-μT MT Z-spectra at all time points. A pairwise Wilcoxon signed-rank tests with Holm-Bonferroni adjustment on MRI parameters was performed and the differences between enhancing lesion and contralateral cortex for the MT ratio with 2μT saturation at 3.6ppm frequency offset (corresponding to the amide chemical group) and M0, MT were both strongly significant (p< 0.001) at all time points. This work has identified that differences between enhancing lesion and contralateral cortex are strongest in MTR with B1=2μT at 3.6ppm and relative macromolecular pool size (M0, MT) images over entire period of 3-13 days after cancer cell implantation.

In Vitro Evaluation of Root Surface Temperature Using Different Endodontic Filling Techniques

Depending on the obturation technique, the tooth and surrounding tissues may heat up during root canal filling, particularly with warm methods. This study aimed to analyze the temperature increase in the periradicular and -apical region during various warm obturation techniques with a present simulated periodontal blood flow. Seventy-five extracted human teeth were shortened to 11 mm (cut-grinder Primus diamond cutting device; Walter Messner GmbH, Oststeinbek, Germany) and prepared using the ProTaper Gold system (Dentsply Sirona Inc., Charlotte, NC, USA) ISO size 40/.06. Specimens were prepared to ensure stable fluid circulation in an artificially created periodontal space, and the procedure was recorded with a thermal infrared camera (VarioCAM HD; InfraTec GmbH Infrarotsensorik und Messtechnik, Dresden, Germany). The following obturation methods were applied: I, cold single-cone obturation (control group); II, gutta-percha-coated rigid carrier technique (GuttaFusion); III, squirting technique (injection technique); IV, continuous wave technique; and V, Schilder technique. Statistical analysis was performed using the Kruskal–Wallis test, followed by the Mann–Whitney pairwise test using the sequential Bonferroni procedure for significant differences (p &lt; 0.05). The Schilder technique with 0 mL/min showed the lowest temperature change, with a median of 0.00 °C (max. 0.00 °C, min. 0.00 °C, IQR 0.00 °C). In contrast, the continuous wave technique at a circulation rate of 2.6 mL/min exhibited the highest temperature change, with a median of 3.76 °C (max. 5.33 °C, min. 2.42 °C, IQR 1.46 °C). Although warm obturation techniques can increase surface temperature, none of the methods produced changes that were potentially damaging to the periodontium or surrounding bone.

The Emboless® venous chamber efficiently reduces air bubbles: a randomized study of chronic hemodialysis patients

Abstract Background When blood passes the extracorporeal circuit, air microbubbles (MBs) contaminate the blood. Some MBs will end up as microemboli in the lung, heart, and brain. MB exposure has no medical purpose and is considered as bio-incompatibility. Selecting venous chambers with high removal rate of MBs is warranted to reduce the risks of air bio-incompatibility. The primary aim was to compare the Fresenius 5008 (F5008-VC) and the Emboless® (Emboless-VC) venous chambers regarding the elimination of MBs in the return bloodline during hemodialysis (HD). Methods Twenty patients underwent 80 sessions of cross-over HD using both the F5008-VC and the Emboless-VC randomized such that half started with the F5008-VC and half with the Emboless-VC. For 32 of the 80 sessions measurements were also performed during hemodiafiltrations (HDF) after the initial HD. MBs were measured with an ultrasound device (within the size range of 20-500µm) at the ‘Inlet’ and ‘Outlet’ bloodline of the venous chambers. The Wilcoxon pairwise test compared the percentage of MB elimination between venous chambers. Results During HD, the median reduction of MBs for the Outlet was 39% with the F5008-VC and 76% with the Emboless-VC (p&amp;lt;0.001). During HDF, the reduction was 28% with the F5008-VC and 70% with the Emboless-VC (p&amp;lt;0.001). Conclusion Fewer MBs and subsequently fewer microemboli entered the bloodline of the patient using the Emboless-VC compared to the F5008-VC venous chamber during HD and during HDF. Venous chambers with a high removal rate of MBs will reduce the extent of air emboli.

Stimulated echo acquisition mode (STEAM) diffusion tensor imaging with different diffusion encoding times in the supraspinatus muscle: Test-retest reliability and comparison to spin echo diffusion tensor imaging.

Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) provides insight into the skeletal muscle microstructure and can be acquired using a stimulated echo acquisition mode (STEAM)-based approach to quantify time-dependent tissue diffusion. This study examined diffusion metrics and signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) in the supraspinatus muscle obtained with a STEAM-DTI sequence with different diffusion encoding times (Δ) and compared them to measures from a spin echo (SE) sequence. Ten healthy subjects (mean age 31.5 ± 4.7years; five females) underwent 3-Tesla STEAM and SE-DTI of the shoulder in three sessions. STEAM was acquired with Δ of 100/200/400/600 ms. The diffusion encoding time in SE scans was 19ms (b = 500s/mm2). Region of interest-based measurement of fractional anisotropy (FA), mean diffusivity (MD), and SNR was performed. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) were computed to assess test-retest reliability. ANOVA with post-hoc pairwise tests was used to compare measures between different Δ of STEAM as well as STEAM and SE, respectively. FA was significantly higher (FASTEAM: 0.38-0.46 vs. FASE: 0.26) and MD significantly lower (MDSTEAM: 1.20-1.33 vs. MDSE: 1.62×10-3mm2/s) in STEAM compared to SE (p < 0.001, respectively). SNR was significantly higher for SE (72.3 ± 8.7) than for STEAM (p < 0.001). ICCs were excellent for FA in STEAM (≥0.911) and SE (0.960). For MD, ICCs were good for STEAM100ms-600ms (≥0.759) and SE (0.752). STEAM and SE exhibited excellent reliability for FA and good reliability for MD in the supraspinatus muscle. SNR was significantly higher in SE compared to STEAM.

Skills of Educational Institution Administrators in the 21st Century under the Office of the Vocational Education Commission Pathum Thani Province

Background and Aims: The world in the 21st century has undergone marked changes from the 20th century, especially in the advancement of digital technology. This makes our world noticeably borderless or narrower. This change has a huge impact on all sectors. Including administration in educational institutions in the new era educational administrators in the 21st century must therefore play an important role in setting directions, policies, and leading educational institutions to success. With outstanding characteristics such as high intellectual skills professionalism in management Having a creative mind, a good attitude, and a broad vision. This research has the following objectives: (1) Study the level of skills of educational institution administrators in the 21st century under the Office of the Vocational Education Commission, Pathum Thani Province. (2) Compare the level of opinions of personnel on the skills of educational institution administrators in the 21st century under the Office of the Vocational Education Commission, Pathum Thani Province. Classified by educational level, position, and work experience. (3) Study guidelines for developing the skills of educational institution administrators in the 21st century under the Office of the Vocational Education Commission, Pathum Thani Province. Methodology: The sample group used in the research was 348 personnel under the Office of the Vocational Education Commission, Pathum Thani Province, in the academic year 2023, which were obtained by stratified random sampling. The research instrument consisted of a questionnaire that was a 5-level rating scale with an IOC value in the range of 0.80 - 1.00 and a confidence value of 0.88. In addition, a structured interview was used as a secondary tool to supplement additional information. For the statistics used in data analysis, such as frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation, T-test, F-test and pairwise difference test using Scheffe' method. Results: The results of the research found that (1) skills of educational institution administrators in the 21st century under the Office of the Vocational Education Commission, Pathum Thani Province overall, it was at the "high" level. When considering each aspect, it was found that the skills of school administrators in the 21st century were at the "high" level in every aspect. (2) Results of a comparative analysis of the skills of school administrators in the 21st century, classified by educational level, position, and work experience found that: 1) Skills of educational institution administrators according to educational level and position Overall, the differences were statistically significant at the .05 level. 2) Skills of school administrators according to work experience. Overall, they are not different. (3) Guidelines for developing the skills of school administrators in the 21st century. It was found that administrators organized workshops to provide teachers with knowledge and understanding about using the curriculum. As well as developing a competency-based teaching curriculum in collaboration with business establishments and outside agencies. There is also personnel development to create innovations, technology, and inventions for teaching and learning. Use technology to learn and there are adequate learning resources with information technology systems available Promote and support teachers and instructors to have knowledge and understanding and be able to follow measurement and evaluation regulations correctly. Conclusion: Skills of educational administrators in the 21st century. Administrators understand principles and concepts. management theory Able to apply and manage according to the situation effectively, able to manage resources efficiently, systematically and to maximum benefit.

Academic Administration that Affects Proactive Learning of Educational Institutions under Chaiyaphum Municipality

Background and Aims: This research aims to study and compare the level of academic administration that affects active learning management in educational institutions under Chaiyaphum Municipality. The analysis will be separated according to educational level. Work experience and type of educational institution. In addition, there is a study of academic administration guidelines that can affect the management of active learning in these educational institutions. Methodology: The sample used in the research consisted of 129 personnel in educational institutions under Chaiyaphum Municipality, which were obtained from stratified random sampling. The research tools included a questionnaire using a 5-level rating scale and a structured interview with an IOC between 0.80 - 1.00 and a confidence value of 0.83. For the statistics used in data analysis, such as frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation. T-test, F-test, and pairwise difference test using the Scheffé Method. Results: the finding found that (1) Academic administration that affects the management of active learning in educational institutions under Chaiyaphum Municipality, overall it is at a high level. When considering each aspect, it was found that academic administration that affects proactive learning management is at a high level in every aspect. (2) Results of the comparative analysis of opinions regarding academic administration that affect active learning management of educational institutions under Chaiyaphum Municipality. Classified by educational level work experience and type of educational institution found that there was no difference. (3) Guidelines for academic administration that affect active learning management in educational institutions under Chaiyaphum Municipality include improving or changing the curriculum to be consistent with active learning management. educational institution context and student context. Encouraging teachers to organize problem-based teaching and learning activities. integrated teaching. Encouraging teachers to measure and evaluate learning according to actual conditions, which meets the aims of education. and use the evaluation results to develop individual learners. Teachers are also encouraged to develop modern teaching materials. By using technology to organize teaching and learning. and use the results of supervision to further improve and develop teaching media. Conclusion: The findings show that academic administration has a significant impact on active learning management in educational institutions in Chaiyaphum Municipality, with consistently high performance across all aspects. There were no differences according to educational level, work experience, or type of institution. Aligning curricula with active learning, encouraging problem-based and integrated teaching, promoting authentic assessment, and facilitating the development of modern teaching materials through technology and supervision are all important guidelines for improving academic administration.

Using Principles of Good Governance by Educational Institution Administrators under the Jurisdiction of the Chaiyaphum Provincial Learning Promotion Office

Background and Aims: Effective public and social management Also known as good governance, it is an important guideline for organizing society which consists of the public sector. Private business sector and the public sector. The goal is to strengthen and increase the country's immunity. This research aims to: 1. study and compare the level of opinions of personnel on the application of good governance principles in the management of educational institutions by administrators under the Chaiyaphum Provincial Learning Promotion Office. Classified by educational level Position and work experience. And 2. survey the guidelines for developing educational institution administration according to the principles of good governance of educational institution administrators under the Chaiyaphum Provincial Learning Promotion Office. Methodology: The research sample consisted of 229 educational institution personnel under the Chaiyaphum Provincial Learning Promotion Office, which were obtained from stratified sampling. The research instrument consisted of a questionnaire with a 5-level rating scale, with an IOC value in the range of 0.80 – 1.00 and a reliability value of 0.91. Structured interviews were also conducted to collect data. Statistics used in data analysis include frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation, T-test, F-test and pairwise difference test using the Scheffé method. Results: The research results are summarized as follows (1) Using the principles of good governance by educational institution administrators Under the jurisdiction of the Chaiyaphum Provincial Learning Promotion Office. It was found that the overall level was at a high level. Especially the information technology management aspect is also at a high level. (2) Comparative analysis of the use of good governance principles by educational institution administrators under the jurisdiction of the Chaiyaphum Provincial Learning Promotion Office Classified by education level and work experience found that there was no difference. But when classified according to position and duty It was found that there was a statistically significant difference at the 0.05 level. (3) Guidelines for using the principles of good governance by educational institution administrators under the jurisdiction of the Chaiyaphum Provincial Learning Promotion Office It was found that the executives had established management guidelines that were accepted by the personnel. Adhere to the principles of correctness and goodness. Administer educational institutions according to criteria that can be verified. Provide opportunities for personnel to participate in educational institution development planning. and focus on the benefits that students will receive. By managing limited resources to provide maximum benefit to students. Conclusion: The research findings show that educational institution administrators under the Chaiyaphum Provincial Learning Promotion Office use good governance principles at a high level, particularly in information technology management. When comparing education level and work experience, no differences were found; however, significant differences emerged based on position and duty. Key guidelines for promoting good governance include establishing accepted management practices, maintaining integrity and transparency, involving personnel in planning, and prioritizing resource management to maximize student benefits.

Second-Line Fluoropyrimidine-Based Chemotherapy in Advanced Biliary Tract Cancer: A Meta-Analysis Based on Individual Patient-Level Data of Randomized Trials.

While fluoropyrimidine-based chemotherapy regimens are recommended second-line treatment for patients with advanced biliary tract cancer (BTC), there have been no studies comparing different regimens head-to-head. We performed individual patient-level meta-analysis based on data from the intention-to-treat population of the phase 2b NIFTY trial (liposomal irinotecan [nal-IRI] plus fluorouracil and leucovorin [5-FU/LV] vs. 5-FU/LV; NCT03542508) and the phase 2 FIReFOX trial (modified oxaliplatin plus 5-FU/LV [mFOLFOX] vs. modified irinotecan plus 5-FU/LV [mFOLFIRI]; NCT03464968). Pairwise log-rank tests and multivariable analysis using Cox proportional hazards modeling with shared frailty to account for the trial's effect were used to compare overall survival (OS) between regimens. A total of 277 patients were included. The nal-IRI plus 5-FU/LV group (n=88) showed significantly better OS compared to the mFOLFOX group (n=49, pairwise log-rank, p=0.02), and mFOLFIRI group (n=50, p =0.03). Multivariable analysis showed consistent trends in OS with adjusted hazard ratios of 1.39 (mFOLFOX vs nal-IRI plus 5-FU/LV, 95% CI 0.93-2.07, p=0.11) and 1.36 (mFOLFIRI vs nal-IRI plus 5-FU/LV, 95% CI 0.92-2.03, p=0.13), respectively. Compared to the 5-FU/LV group, the mFOLFOX group and the mFOLFIRI group did not show differences in terms of OS (pairwise log-rank p=0.83 and p=0.58, respectively). The nal-IRI plus 5-FU/LV group experienced more frequent diarrhea, while the mFOLFOX group experienced peripheral neuropathy. Nal-IRI plus 5-FU/LV showed favorable survival outcomes compared to mFOLFOX, mFOLFIRI, or 5-FU/LV. The safety profiles of these regimens should be considered along with efficacy.

Asymmetric connectedness among BSE SENSEX, INR–USD exchange rate, gold price and crude oil price: fresh evidence from nonlinear ARDL

PurposeThis paper investigates the asymmetric connectedness among the Indian stock market, crude oil price, gold price and the USD–INR exchange rate.Design/methodology/approachWe construct a nonlinear autoregressive distributed lag model that contains the four aforementioned variables. We further used the pairwise Granger causality test to identify the direction of causality.FindingsThe results verify an asymmetrical long-run co-movement between the Indian stock market index, exchange rate, international crude oil prices and gold prices. In the long run, the performance of the Indian stock market is mainly affected by both positive as well as negative shocks in the INR–USD exchange rate, positive shocks in gold prices and positive shocks in crude oil prices. Further, a feedback mechanism is observed between positive shocks in the INR–USD exchange rate and Indian stock market performance.Originality/valueThe research paper revisited the linkage among the variables using a novel methodology proposed by Shin et al. (2014).

Profitability of Energy Sector Companies in Poland: Do Internal Factors Matter?

The aim of this article is to examine which selected internal factors influence the profitability (ROA) of companies in the energy sector in Poland and how they do so, over the period 2018–2021, taking into account two groups: all types of activities (984 companies) and electricity production (508 companies). This study uses Pearson correlation analysis, Wilcoxon pairwise rank test, descriptive statistics and multiple linear regression to build eight ROA econometric models, four for each group. The research shows that in the energy sector, in particular, variables relating to the capital structure (total equity/total assets, long-term liabilities/total assets, short-term liabilities/total assets and long-term liabilities/short-term liabilities ratios) have a statistically significant impact (positive or negative) on the profitability (ROA). The aforementioned ratios appear in various combinations in all eight ROA models. The use of equity to finance the activities of companies in this sector seems to be particularly beneficial, as the total equity/total assets ratio occurs in as many as seven out of eight models and, moreover, it always has a positive impact on the ROA. The remaining analyzed variables relating to the structure of assets (fixed assets/total assets ratio), financial liquidity (current ratio) and the age of the company appear in the models as statistically significant quite rarely, having a different impact on the ROA (positively or negatively). However, variables such as the fixed assets/current assets and total liabilities/total equity ratios do not have a statistically significant impact on the ROA at all in any of the studied groups of enterprises. The research results suggest that managers, in order to shape profitability (measured by ROA), should pay special attention to the capital structure, i.e., the proportions of the use of equity, long-term liabilities and short-term liabilities to finance the operations of energy companies as these independent variables appear most often in ROA models. Other analyzed factors, such as the assets structure (the share of fixed assets in total assets) or financial liquidity, also have an impact on the return on assets; therefore, their use in energy companies should also be considered. Moreover, the research shows a large diversity of factors shaping ROA in econometric models, the way they affect the dependent variable (positive or negative) and the degree of model fit (R2), both in individual years and in the two groups of companies studied. This proves that it is not possible to clearly and finally determine which factors and how (positive or negative) they affect the profitability. This influence can change over time depending on the circumstances, which indicates the need for the continuous involvement of decision makers in the management process and making decisions based on reliable and appropriate-to-the-situation analyses.

Financial Development's Role in the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda: Asian Countries

The purpose of achieving sustainable development goals (SDGs) requires the mobilisation of finance and its alignment with sustainability principles. This study intends to examine the influence of financial development on the attainment of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in an economy. Approach - The authors conduct an analysis of a sample comprising 35 Asian countries, focusing on their SDG (Sustainable Development Goals). Patterns and indicative indicators of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). A probit model is used to analyse the effect of Financial development impacting the trajectory of the Sustainable Development Goals. Then, a pairwise Granger causality test is used for Examining the relationship between the Sustainable Development Goals and financial development The results suggest that there is a favourable relationship between financial development and the advancement towards the Sustainable Development Goals. The test for causation There is a reciprocal relationship between financial development and industry, infrastructure, and innovation. Enhancing financial growth and promoting sustainable cities and communities, as well as fostering financial development and taking action on climate change, There is a one-way relationship where gender equality influences financial progress. Research limitations/ramifications - The findings also have implications for the government of a nation as the privately-owned enterprises.

Comparison of four light-response models using relative curvature measures of nonlinearity

Photosynthetic light response curves serve as powerful mathematical tools for quantitatively describing the rate of photosynthesis of plants in response to changes in irradiance. However, in practical applications, the daunting task of selecting an appropriate nonlinear model to accurately fit these curves persists as a significant challenge. Thus, there arises a need for a method to systematically evaluate the efficacy of such models. In the present study, four distinct nonlinear models, namely Exponential Model (EM), Rectangular Hyperbola Model (RHM), Nonrectangular Hyperbola Model (NHM), and Modified Rectangular Hyperbola Model (MRHM), were used to fit the relationship between light intensity and the rate of photosynthesis across 42 empirical datasets. The goodness of fit for each model was assessed using the root-mean-square error, and relative curvature measures of nonlinearity were employed to assess the nonlinear behavior of the models. In terms of goodness of fit, pairwise difference tests of the root-mean-square error revealed that there was little to choose among the four models, although RHM gave a marginally poorer fit. However, in terms of nonlinear behavior, EM not only provided the most favorable linear approximation performance at the global level, but also exhibited the best close-to-linear behavior at the individual parameter level among the four models across the 42 datasets. Consequently, the results strongly advocate for EM as the most suitable mathematical framework for fitting photosynthetic light response curves. These findings provide insights into the model assessment for nonlinear regression in describing the relationship between the photosynthetic rate and light intensity.

Determinants of environmental sustainability in the United States: analyzing the role of financial development and stock market capitalization using LCC framework

This research investigates how the USA's load capacity factor (LCF) has been impacted by trade openness, financial development, stock market capitalization, and industrialization over the period 1990–2022. This study also tests the “Load Capacity Curve (LCC)” hypothesis. Various unit root tests were conducted to determine the stationarity of the dataset, revealing that the variables are free from unit root problems and exhibit mixed orders of integration. The “Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL)” bounds test confirmed co-integration among the variables. The results from the ARDL model validated the existence of the LCC hypothesis in the USA. The findings also demonstrated that industrialization is positively correlated with LCF, whereas financial development, stock market capitalization, and trade openness are negatively correlated with LCF. To ensure the robustness of the ARDL estimations, the study also employed several regressions, all of which confirmed the validity of the ARDL results. Additionally, pairwise Granger causality tests revealed unidirectional causal relationships between GDP and LCF, stock market capitalization and LCF, and industrialization and LCF, while no causal relationships were found between financial development and LCF and trade openness and LCF. The findings advocate that the USA should advance eco-friendly industrial practices to ensure environmental sustainability, alongside regulated financial markets and institutions that mandate the utilization of green investments.

Predicting public mental health needs in a crisis using social media indicators: a Singapore big data study

Mental health issues have increased substantially since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, health policymakers do not have adequate data and tools to predict mental health demand, especially amid a crisis. Using time-series data collected in Singapore, this study examines if and how algorithmically measured emotion indicators from Twitter posts can help forecast emergency mental health needs. We measured the mental health needs during 549 days from 1 July 2020 to 31 December 2021 using the public’s daily visits to the emergency room of the country’s largest psychiatric hospital and the number of users with “crisis” state assessed through a government-initiated online mental health self-help portal. Pairwise Granger-causality tests covering lag length from 1 day to 5 days indicated that forecast models using Twitter joy, anger and sadness emotions as predictors perform significantly better than baseline models using past mental health needs data alone (e.g., Joy Intensity on IMH Visits, χ2 = 14·9, P < ·001***; Sadness Count on Mindline Crisis, χ2 = 4·6, P = ·031*, with a one-day lag length). The findings highlight the potential of new early indicators for tracking emerging public mental health needs.

Assessing the association between cigarette smoking and blood C-reactive protein levels using restructured cohort data

IntroductionCigarette smoke exposure is known to induce inflammation, leading to elevated levels of inflammatory markers such as white blood cell (WBC) count and C-reactive protein (CRP). Despite extensive research on this relationship, longitudinal studies are limited. We aimed to explore the association between cigarette smoke exposure and WBC count and CRP levels by restructuring community cohort data. MethodsData from a community cohort of the Korean population, followed biennially from 2001 to 2018, were utilized. Smoking status was determined through self-administered questionnaires. WBC and CRP levels were measured in a central laboratory with stringent quality control. Cohort data were restructured into pairs representing before and after measurements. We analyzed smoking effects on WBC and CRP using pairwise before-after tests based on changes in smoking status. Furthermore, parallel group analyses comparing changes in smoking status to no change were conducted. ResultsAnalysis included 4336 pairs for WBC and 3068 pairs for CRP from 10,030 participants. Pairwise analysis showed a significant decrease in WBC transitioning from current smoker to non-smoker and an increase from non-smoker to current smoker. Parallel group analysis demonstrated a significant decrease in WBC transitioning from current smoker to non-smoker compared to remaining current smoker, and an increase from non-smoker to current smoker compared to remaining non-smoker. CRP did not exhibit significant associations in either analysis. ConclusionsIn a community cohort, cigarette smoking was associated with elevated WBC count. However, CRP levels did not consistently reflect inflammation associated with cigarette smoking.

Neonatal outcomes after intervention for suspected renal colic in pregnancy

ObjectiveTo compare neonatal outcomes following URS, stent, or PCN in pregnant women presenting with suspected renal colic. MethodsWomen undergoing a procedure for suspected renal colic during pregnancy at a large multi-center institution between 2008–2022 were retrospectively reviewed and categorized by initial intervention. Neonatal outcomes were recorded and linked to maternal and obstetric data. Groups were compared by a Kruskal-Wallis, ANOVA, or Fisher’s Exact test, followed by pairwise post-hoc testing as appropriate (α = 0.05). Multivariate analyses were also conducted. Results95 patients were analyzed, of whom 32 were managed with PCN, 47 with stent, and 16 with URS. Maternal baseline characteristics were similar between groups, except for lower gravidity and parity in the stent group. Rates of premature delivery did not differ, but gestational age at delivery was lower in the PCN group versus the stent and URS groups (p = 0.006 and p = 0.025, respectively). Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) admission rates were higher in the PCN group versus the stent and URS groups (p = 0.006 and 0.036, respectively). Respiratory distress syndrome significantly differed between groups (p = 0.041). Neonatal birth weight, Apgar scores, and other complications did not significantly differ. ConclusionThis study demonstrated higher rates of NICU admissions and lower gestational age at delivery for neonates born to mothers managed with PCN compared to stent and URS. Larger multi-institutional studies are warranted to further explore these associations.

The effects of pressure on anticipatory postural adjustments during a jump shot in basketball

BackgroundAnticipatory postural adjustments (APAs) play an important role in feedforward control of dynamic movements, such as jump shot performance in basketball. It is known that jump shot performance declines under pressure from a defender (shot blocker). Research questionDoes pressure from a shot blocker affect the APAs of a jump shot in basketball? Is jump shot performance in basketball associated with APAs? MethodsFourteen healthy male university basketball players performed jump shots under pressure and non-pressure (free) conditions by a shot blocker. Using a force plate, the APAs were defined as occurring until the point of thrust (TH) phase, and ground reaction force (GRF) and center of pressure (COP) at that moment were assessed. To assess jump shot performance, the maximum GRF during the TH phase (THmax), jumping height, and success score of the shot (accuracy score: AS) were measured by using the vertical component of the force plate. Two-way ANOVA examined the effects of the phase and condition on APA duration. The effects of pressure from a shot blocker on each variable (subjective pressure intensity, AS, GRF, and COP) were analyzed using a pairwise t-test or Wilcoxon signed-rank tests. Relationships between changes in jump shot performance and GRF or COP variables were assessed via Spearman’s correlation analysis. Differences between the pressure and free conditions were denoted by p/f (pressure/free). ResultsThe APA duration was shorter under the pressure condition compared to the free condition. The THmax and jump height values were greater under the pressure condition relative to the free condition. Across conditions, changes in COP sway velocity of the APA phase were significantly and negatively correlated with AS. SignificanceThe results of this study suggest that pressure from a shot blocker shortens APA duration and decreases jump shot performance.

Long-term tracking of social structure in groups of rats

Rodents serve as an important model for examining both individual and collective behavior. Dominance within rodent social structures can determine access to critical resources, such as food and mating opportunities. Yet, many aspects of the intricate interplay between individual behaviors and the resulting group social hierarchy, especially its evolution over time, remain unexplored. In this study, we utilized an automated tracking system that continuously monitored groups of male rats for over 250 days to enable an in-depth analysis of individual behavior and the overarching group dynamic. We describe the evolution of social structures within a group and additionally investigate how past behaviors influence the emergence of new social hierarchies when group composition and experimental area changes. Notably, we find that conventional individual and pairwise tests exhibit a weak correlation with group behavior, highlighting their limited accuracy in predicting behavioral outcomes in a collective context. These results emphasize the context-dependence of social behavior as an emergent property of interactions within a group and highlight the need to measure and quantify social behavior in more naturalistic environments.