Search Results (1,068)

Drug-resistant bacteria cause millions of global infections each year, and the development of alternative antimicrobial drugs has become a serious undertaking. Currently, peptides with antimicrobial activity represent potential candidates for new antibiotic discovery as they are less likely to cause drug resistance in bacteria. In this study, bifunctional peptides with potent trypsin-inhibitory activity and antimicrobial activity were obtained by rational computation-based structural modifications to a novel Bowman–Birk-type inhibitor (BBI) peptide. The analogues not only displayed potent bacterial killing ability against two drug-resistant bacteria strains of E. coli but also an excellent safety profile, as assessed by low haemolytic activity and low anti-proliferation activity on HaCaT cells. Throughout the molecular dynamics simulations, the peptides exhibited stable adsorption onto the mixed POPE/POPG membrane; most amino acid residues of the AMPs remained bound to the membrane surface, with a few amino acid residues partially penetrating the membrane interior. This showed that the electrostatic interactions were the dominant driving force mediating the peptide–membrane associations. In addition, the tested peptides displayed a degree of stability in the presence of salt ions, serum, and trypsin. These modified peptides thus possess potential as clinical antibacterial agents, and the strategies used in structural modification may also provide a different path to developing new antimicrobial peptides. Full article

The mammalian lung operates under a biological paradox, requiring architectural fragility for gas exchange while maintaining robust regenerative plasticity to withstand injury. The Hippo signaling pathway has emerged as a central “rheostat” in orchestrating these opposing needs, yet the distinct roles of its downstream effectors remain underappreciated. This review synthesizes recent genetic and mechanobiological advances to propose a “Tale of Two Effectors” model, arguing for the functional non-redundancy of YAP and TAZ. We posit that YAP functions to drive airway progenitor expansion, mechanical force generation, and maladaptive remodeling. Conversely, TAZ—regulated uniquely via transcriptional mechanisms and mechanotransduction—acts as an obligate driver of alveolar differentiation and adaptive repair through an NKX2-1 feed-forward loop. Furthermore, we introduce the “See-Saw” model of tissue fitness, where mesenchymal niche collapse releases the mechanical brake on the epithelium, triggering the bronchiolization characteristic of pulmonary fibrosis. Finally, we extend this framework to malignancy, illustrating how Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC) subtypes mirror these developmental and regenerative states. This integrated framework offers new therapeutic distinct targets for modulating tissue fitness and resolving fibrosis. Full article

The integration of flexible electronics and machine learning (ML) algorithms has become a revolutionary force driving the field of intelligent sensing, giving rise to a new generation of intelligent devices and systems. This article provides a systematic review of core technologies and practical applications of ML in flexible electronics. It focuses on analyzing the theoretical frameworks of algorithms such as the Long Short-Term Memory Network (LSTM), Convolutional Neural Network (CNN), and Reinforcement Learning (RL) in the intelligent processing of sensor signals (IPSS), multimodal feature extraction (MFE), process defect and anomaly detection (PDAD), and data compression and edge computing (DCEC). This study explores the performance advantages of these technologies in optimizing signal analysis accuracy, compensating for interference in high-noise environments, optimizing manufacturing process parameters, etc., and empirically analyzes their potential applications in wearable health monitoring systems, intelligent control of soft robots, performance optimization of self-powered devices, and intelligent perception of epidermal electronic systems. Full article

The development of agricultural new productive forces (ANPFs) represents a vital pathway to overcoming the bottlenecks of agricultural modernization and reshaping agricultural competitiveness. As sustainable development and green transformation have become global priorities, the formation of ANPFs is increasingly viewed as a key engine for promoting resource-efficient agriculture, low-carbon production, ecological protection, and resilient food systems. Using panel data from 16 prefecture-level cities in Anhui Province, China, spanning the period 2010–2023, this study employs the entropy-weighted TOPSIS method to measure the levels of ANPFs and sustainable agricultural development (SAD). A panel data model is then applied to examine the impact of ANPFs on SAD, while a mediation-effect model is used to test the underlying transmission mechanisms. Finally, a spatial econometric model is employed to assess the spatial spillover effects between ANPFs and SAD. The results reveal that ANPFs exert a significant and robust positive impact on Anhui’s SAD, with the strength of this effect decreasing gradually from central to southern and northern regions. Further analysis indicates that the driving influence of ANPFs operates through three key mediating pathways: the improvement of new-type infrastructure, the enhancement of agricultural scientific and technological innovation, and the advancement of agricultural digital transformation. Moreover, ANPFs demonstrate a positive spatial spillover effect, suggesting that the development of new productive forces in one region promotes agricultural modernization in neighboring areas. These findings demonstrate that ANPFs not only enhance productivity but also contribute to sustainable agricultural development. Accordingly, strengthening ANPFs development can serve as an effective strategy for promoting long-term agricultural sustainability, indicating that central Anhui should be prioritized as a core hub for fostering ANPFs, enabling the gradient diffusion of infrastructure, innovation capacity, and digital services toward southern and northern Anhui. Strengthening regional coordination mechanisms will further amplify the spatial spillover of ANPFs, thereby advancing high-quality agricultural development across the province. This study provides new evidence for how ANPFs can support sustainable agricultural transformation, offering policy insights for green growth, food security, and rural revitalization. Full article

New quality productive forces (NQPFs) provide vital impetus for the development of advanced manufacturing clusters (AMCs). Using 30 provincial panel data in China from 2013 to 2023, this study employs two-way fixed effects, mediation, and threshold effect models to analyze the impact of NQPFs on AMCs. The results reveal that (1) NQPFs significantly promote the development of AMCs, and this conclusion remains robust after rigorous endogeneity tests and robustness tests. (2) NQPFs exert a stronger driving effect on AMCs in coastal regions than in inland regions (both significant), and they are significant in non-resource-based regions and highly industrialized regions. (3) NQPFs indirectly foster the development of AMCs by prompting technological innovation (encompassing imitative and independent innovation), facilitating talent agglomeration, and driving industrial structure advancement. (4) The driving effect of NQPFs exhibits a significant nonlinear upward trend. This study provides new theoretical insights and empirical evidence for the sustainable development of the manufacturing industry. Full article

This work introduces a new method for creating patterned SiO₂ electrets using stamp-assisted capacitive coupling (SACC), enabling surface functionalisation without direct electrode contact. SACC applies an alternating current through capacitive coupling between a conductive stamp and an insulating substrate in high-humidity conditions, forming a nano-electrochemical cell that drives localised reactions. Using thermally grown SiO₂ films, we achieve submicrometre patterning with minimal topographical impact but significant electronic alterations. Characterisation via Kelvin Probe Force Microscopy and Electric Force Microscopy confirms the formation of charged regions replicating the stamp pattern, with adjustable surface potential shifts up to −1.7 V and charge densities reaching 300 nC·cm⁻². The process can be scaled to areas of 1 cm² and is compatible with conventional laboratory equipment, offering a high-throughput alternative to scanning-probe lithography. SACC combines simplicity, accuracy, and scalability, opening new opportunities for patterned electret production and functional surface engineering. Full article

The professional development of English as a Foreign Language (EFL) education has been converted from rigid hierarchical models to more flexible and context-sensitive frameworks. This study introduces ego-centred network card analysis as a new methodology to investigate how Indonesian university EFL teachers create and negotiate their professional identities. The data were collected from 11 experienced EFL teachers. The network cards were analysed to find the nodes and sectors of professional identity and development. Drawing on constructivist and sociocultural perspectives, the study findings indicated that the formation is influenced by relational, emotional and institutional influences, and that family support, mentoring, and career goals alleviate pressures such as workload, publication demands, and financial instability. The findings highlight identity as both a product and a driving force for professional development, extending sociocultural theories by visualizing hidden dimensions of teachers’ networks. Methodologically, this study demonstrates the value of visual-relational tools in capturing complexity beyond interviews or surveys. The results suggest that, in practice, teacher education and policy must integrate structured mentorship, peer reflection, and recognition of emotional work in order to maintain professional growth. Full article

In the digital economy, promoting enterprise data asset trading and cultivating enterprises’ new quality productive forces are systemic issues. The present paper employs a combined method of QCA and regression analysis to construct a complex mediation model, based on the TOE framework theory and from a configurational perspective. This study examines the driving mechanisms behind corporate data asset transactions and the development of new-quality productive forces among Chinese A-share listed companies from 2020 to 2024, focusing on the interplay of technological, organizational, and environmental factors. The study finds that there are three configurations for achieving high-level enterprise data asset trading: the “technology–organization–environment” synergistic-driven type, the “environmental constraint–technological compensation” driven type, and the “organizational operation–environmental ecology” driven type. Among them, the level of enterprise data elements, the structure of enterprise human capital, and urban data governance are key factors in achieving high disclosure of enterprise data asset trading and a leap in new quality productive forces. The research conclusions provide valuable insights for enterprises considering a development strategy that combines data asset trading with new quality productive forces. Full article

Regarding the deep integration of China’s “dual carbon” strategy with high-quality development, the objectives of practicing ESG principles and fostering new quality productive forces are highly aligned, which constitute an endogenous driving force for corporate sustainability. Government subsidies, by providing directional incentives and guiding resource allocation, further facilitate the integration and agglomeration of factors that underpin new quality productive forces. Yet, existing research offers limited theoretical explanation and empirical evidence regarding the relationship among these three dimensions and the mechanisms through which their effects are transmitted. To fulfill the research, this study uses resources from A-share listed enterprises in China between 2015 and 2023. From the perspective of government subsidies and grounded in signaling theory and resource allocation theory, we construct an index system to measure new quality productive forces and employ a two-way fixed effects model alongside Bootstrap mediation test to investigate the mechanisms and transmission pathways linking ESG performance, government subsidies, and new quality productive forces. The results reveal that strong ESG performance substantially enhances the new quality productive forces, and the assertion stays steadfast after addressing endogeneity concerns and conducting multiple robustness checks. Moreover, ESG performance enhances firms’ access to government subsidies, which subsequently has a partial mediation effect. The analysis also uncovers heterogeneity: the beneficial impact of ESG performance is more salient among small and medium-sized firms as well as firms in eastern regions. This study contributes to the literature by extending the theoretical framework on the correlation between ESG performance and new quality productive forces, while also offering practical insights for advancing corporate ESG practices and refining government subsidy policies. Full article

Innovation is the core driving force behind the high-quality development and global competitiveness of cities. The spatial distribution characteristics and influencing factors of innovation are of significant value in optimizing the allocation of innovation resources. This study focuses on Harbin, utilizing 46,057 patent application data from 2004 to 2022, and employs spatial analysis methods such as KDE, ESDA, and DBSCAN to analyze the spatiotemporal evolution patterns of innovation space. Through the MGWR model, this study investigates the factors influencing the spatial agglomeration of innovation from five dimensions: innovation subjects, infrastructure support, public service support, population and market, and spatial carrier. The findings are as follows: (1) In terms of spatiotemporal patterns, Harbin’s innovation space distribution shows a “one core, four cluster” spatial structure, with innovation activities clustering primarily around universities as the core and new districts as key support, gradually evolving toward a multi-center agglomeration development model. (2) Regarding influencing factors, the geographic proximity of universities is significantly associated with higher innovation density. Among infrastructure, metro stations show a positive association with innovation agglomeration, potentially reflecting the role of transport accessibility. Public service support displays significant spatial heterogeneity across different regions. (3) The Historical Area requires policy guidance for urban renewal; the New Town Area forms exogenous-driven innovation clusters; the Industrialized Park Area achieves endogenous development through industrial collaboration. Full article

The narrow courtyard houses in the rural areas of Guanzhong region of Shaanxi Province, China, are a spatial representation of the long-term interaction of multiple influencing factors. This study, based on 716 questionnaires and 125 semi-structured interviews, comprehensively employed typology, qualitative analysis, comprehensive fuzzy evaluation, and grey correlation degree analysis methods to analyze the spatial evolution process of 125 typical samples since 1949. The results of research show: (1) In terms of spatial form, the narrow courtyard houses have evolved along a “from single to multiple, from horizontal to vertical, from open to closed” path. Their core has shifted from the symbolic “courtyard” to the functional “hall”, and the value of the main and auxiliary spaces has also undergone reconstruction, reflecting a modern transformation from “priority of etiquette” to “life quality orientation”. (2) The driving path starts from the institutional traction during the “survival stage”, then shifts to the economic dominance during the “growth stage”, and finally turns to the policy guidance and quality pursuit in the “life stage”, which are all coordinated. Policy and industrial structure are the core macro driving forces that run through the entire process. (3) Overall, the modernization transformation of the narrow courtyard houses is a dynamic process driven by external factors, with its path gradually shifting from the traditional endogenous model to external promotion and towards a diversified balance; however, the current “vacuum” state of cultural concepts reveals that the modernization of rural houses is still in the transitional stage between old and new paradigms. Based on this, the core of future rural house construction lies in achieving an internal reshaping from functional form to cultural value, guiding the spatial form to move from “disorderly exploration” to the organic generation of a “new paradigm”, providing a sustainable spatial paradigm for rural revitalization. Full article

Innovation in the new energy industry serves not only as a key accelerator for the global green and low-carbon energy transition but also as a core driving force of the ongoing energy revolution. This study utilizes data on publications, patents, and the spatial distribution of representative innovation enterprises in the new energy industry of the Yangtze River Delta urban agglomeration from 2009 to 2023 to construct a multilayer science–technology–industry innovation network. Social network analysis is employed to examine its evolutionary dynamics and structural characteristics, and the Quadratic Assignment Procedure (QAP) is used to investigate the factors shaping intercity innovation linkages. The results reveal that the multilayer innovation network has continuously expanded in scale, gradually forming a multi-core radiative structure with Shanghai, Nanjing, and Hangzhou at the center. At the cohesive subgroup level, the scientific and technological layers exhibit clear hierarchical differentiation, where core cities tend to engage in strong mutual collaborations, while the industrial layer shows a hub-and-spoke pattern combining large, medium, and small cities. In terms of layer relationships, the centrality of the scientific layer increasingly surpasses that of the technological and industrial layers. Inter-layer degree correlations and overlaps also display a strengthening trend. Furthermore, differences in regional higher education scale, urban economic density, and geographic proximity are found to exert significant influences on scientific, technological, and industrial innovation linkages among cities. In response, this study recommends enhancing the leadership role of core cities, leveraging the bridging and intermediary functions of peripheral cities, and promoting application-driven cross-regional innovation collaboration, thereby building efficient science–technology–industry networks and enhancing intercity innovation linkages and the flow of innovation resources, and ultimately promoting the high-quality development of the regional new energy industry. Full article

Promoting the coupled and coordinated development of new-type urbanization and rural revitalization is important for achieving high-quality and sustainable growth in China. This study follows a people-centered and coordinated development approach and is aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It builds a comprehensive evaluation framework for the two systems and measures and interprets their coupling and coordination. On this basis, and under the background of China’s territorial spatial planning, the study draws implications for land and spatial governance. The core of the study is to answer the following questions: What are the spatiotemporal patterns of the coupling coordination level between new-type urbanization and rural revitalization in China from 2014 to 2023? How has the coordination of their development speed evolved? What are the main sources of regional differences? Which factors are the key drivers that promote coordinated development between the two systems? The main findings are as follows. (1) The national coupling coordination degree increases steadily. Spatially, there is a pattern of “eastern region leading, central and northeastern regions catching up, and western region showing internal divergence”. This pattern is consistent with differences in development intensity and accessibility across regions. (2) From 2019 to 2023, the coordination of development speed improved in most provinces. A few developed or special provinces show short-term mismatch, which may reflect timing gaps between land-use controls and the provision of public services. (3) Gaps between regions are the main source of overall differences, and there is a trend toward convergence. This is in line with interregional equalization and the narrowing of efficiency gaps. (4) Well-being of residents, social development, and digital innovation are the core driving forces. Digital inclusive finance and the intensity of parcel delivery services also provide important support. There are clear interaction effects among the driving factors, and these effects are stronger in areas where planning improves accessibility and reduces transaction costs. Full article

Cross-border e-commerce (CBEC) is a driving force behind international trade and corporate upgrading in the era of global digital transformation. This research aims to investigate the extent to which the establishment of China’s Cross-Border E-Commerce Comprehensive Pilot Zones (CBECPZs) expands the innovation boundaries of firms. We employ a multi-period difference-in-differences (DID) model to analyse panel data for Chinese A-share listed companies from 2010 to 2023, viewing the phased introduction of CBECPZs as a quasi-natural experiment. The empirical results indicate that the establishment of CBECPZs substantially expands the innovation boundaries of firms, as evidenced by an increase in patent applications in new technological domains. This finding is confirmed by parallel-trend checks, propensity-score-matching DID, placebo testing, and double-machine-learning calculations. The mechanism analysis shows that CBEC mainly fosters innovation by improving enterprises’ digital-marketing capacities, reducing information asymmetry, promoting technology spillovers, and encouraging human-capital investment. In addition, the strategy promotes innovation more effectively for eastern Chinese companies, high-technology firms, and non-state-owned enterprises. This study provides micro-level evidence from China regarding the innovative effects of cross-border e-commerce and clarifies how digital trade redefines organisational innovation parameters. In doing so, it offers both theoretical and practical insights for policymakers refining CBEC regulations and businesses leveraging digital platforms for innovation advancement. Full article

In the era of the ‘Internet of Everything’ and amid growing demands for high-quality economic development, public data has emerged as a new core factor of production, establishing itself as a pivotal force behind regional economic growth. However, existing research rarely clarifies the multi-dimensional impact and influence mechanism of public data openness on regional development, and there are still deficiencies in the research on transforming the advantages of data elements into sustainable economic driving forces. This study, in conjunction with the interpretation of data elements, employed a fixed-effects model to empirically investigate the impact and path of public data opening on the high-quality development of regional economies, using panel data from 31 provincial regions in China from 2017 to 2024. Empirical findings provide clear evidence that public data openness acts as a significant catalyst for high-quality economic development, thereby solidifying its role as an indispensable engine for sustainable growth in the digital era. Analysis of the underlying mechanisms reveals two primary channels: business environment optimization and improved factor allocation efficiency, with the latter proving to be the more significant driver. Furthermore, heterogeneity analysis reveals that the positive effects are most pronounced in fostering economic structural optimization, advancing the low-carbon environment and expanding shared public welfare, while their influence on innovation dynamism remains comparatively modest. The research results support the government in increasing the openness of public data, establishing and improving a data opening mechanism oriented towards the business environment, and deepening the integration and application of data to enhance the efficiency of factor allocation. Full article