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Geography of Grievance: Industrial Hubs Magnify Political Discontent
Get PDFWhy do some economic shocks have political consequences, upturning elections and ushering in radical candidates, while others are brushed off as structural change? We address this puzzle by looking to geographically concentrated industries, and how they relate to regional identity. While most often presented as a source of regional strength, we show that industrial hubs in the United States have accounted for more job losses than gains over the last twenty years. We then show how this matters through three original survey studies. Workers in geographically concentrated industries belong to denser, more deeply-rooted peer networks; these are associated with a stronger view that politicians are responsible for preventing layoffs. Those same individuals also perceive economic shocks of equal magnitude as more damaging to their region’s standing, compared to the rest of the country. Perceptions of lost regional standing, in turn, are associated with greater demand for populist leadership traits. Finally, we show how these individual attitudes translate into aggregate political behavior. Employment losses in industrial hubs are tied to greater support for Republican candidates, while equivalent losses in non-hubs show no analogous effect. Our account presents a competing picture to the dominant narrative of industrial hubs as founts of innovation and productivity. When threatened by structural forces, such hubs can turn instead into founts of political resentment
Metabolomic sweet spot clock predicts mortality and age-related diseases in the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging
Get PDFBackground: Chronological age does not capture individual health or resilience. Advances in metabolomics have enabled development of molecular aging biomarkers that capture deviations between biological and chronological age, highlighting how genetics, environment, and lifestyle shape biological aging. Despite their promise, metabolomic biomarkers face challenges such as interpretability, non-linearity, and reproducibility. Methods: We have developed a metabolomic predictor of biological age based on untargeted metabolomic profiling of individuals aged 45–85 years from the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging. To enhance interpretability, we first identified metabolites related to health based on variance heterogeneity. For metabolites with identifiable optimal levels, or “sweet spots”, we modeled non-linearity using deviations from these values. A penalized regression model was trained on the Frailty Index using sweet spot deviations as predictors. Results: Here we show that the Sweet Spot Clock built on 178 health-related metabolites is strongly associated with all-cause mortality (HR = 1.08, p = 5.8×10−12, C-index=0.841) and age-related diseases. The biomarker outperforms models trained on chronological age and those using raw metabolite levels, underscoring the importance of modeling non-linearity. It remains predictive after adjusting for age, sex, lifestyle and socioeconomic factors, though its added value over standard health and demographic measures is modest. The model generalizes to an independent cohort of individuals aged 85 years and older. Conclusions: The Sweet Spot Clock provides a reproducible and interpretable measure of biological age. By modeling deviations from optimal metabolite levels and training on health status rather than age, it offers a tool for understanding aging heterogeneity and identifying individuals at risk of health decline
Nanoparticle-Mediated Interface Engineering for Uniform, Reproducible Electron Transport Layers in Scalable Perovskite Solar Cells
Get PDFAs lab-scale perovskite solar cells (PSCs) approach their efficiency limits, reproducing this performance in large-area, manufacturable devices remains challenging. Here, we show that printing interlayers of metal oxide nanoparticles, specifically Al2O3 and SnO2, can systematically control the morphology and interfacial energetics of solution-processed PC61BM electron transport layers (ETLs) in flexible roll-to-roll printed PSCs. These nanoparticle interlayers enhance ETL uniformity, reduce pinholes, and increase shunt resistance, improving power conversion efficiencies (PCEs) and reducing device failure rates by 50%. Through a combination of systematic device characterization, morphological, spectroscopic and energetic analysis, coupled with drift-diffusion simulations, the distinct roles of insulating (Al2O3) and semiconducting (SnO2) nanoparticle interlayers in mediating carrier extraction and recombination are elucidated. Al2O3 suppresses interfacial recombination and improves device reproducibility, albeit with some penalty in short-circuit current, whereas SnO2 enhances electronic coupling and charge extraction, delivering a champion PCE of 11.0% (active area: 0.5 cm2). Incorporating SnO2 interlayers into larger-area modules (active area: 7.2 cm2) further demonstrates the robustness of this strategy under manufacturing-relevant conditions. Together, these results provide an important framework for nanoparticle-mediated interface engineering and establish a simple, effective, and scalable route to improving both performance and yield in printed large-area PSCs
Ubiquitin E3 ligase KLHL6 brings exhausted T-cells back into action
Get PDFPersistent antigen stimulation drives CD8⁺ T-cell exhaustion in cancer and chronic infection, limiting immunotherapy efficacy. Two recent studies identify the ubiquitin E3 ligase Kelch-like protein KLHL6 as a key suppressor of T-cell exhaustion. KLHL6 is maintained in progenitor and memory-like T cells but lost upon chronic TCR signaling through PI3K–AKT–mediated inhibition of FOXO1. By targeting TOX and mitochondrial regulators, such as PGAM5, KLHL6 preserves T-cell function, and its restoration rescues antitumor immunity. This discovery reveals the relevance of KLHL6 mediated ubiquitylation not only in B-lymphocytes, but also in T-cells, thereby highlighting a promising new avenue for immunotherapeutic intervention
A systematic review of epidemiological studies into daylight-saving time & health identifying beneficial & adverse effects
Get PDFOur objective was to systematically review the epidemiological evidence regarding health effects of daylight-saving time (DST) practices - the abolition of which have been called for without the epidemiology having been comprehensively reviewed. We searched PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, PsychINFO, and EconLit up to June 2025. The primary inclusion criterion was human studies that consider either acute effects of transitions or DST vs standard time at a given time of year. Included studies were critically appraised using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Checklist for Quasi-Experimental Studies. We narratively synthesize by broader outcome categories in Supplementary Material and provide a synthesis of syntheses in the main text. From 157 studies of varying designs and quality from 36 countries, we find that the messaging of transitions and DST during summer months being uniformly detrimental is not supported. DST-Onset transitions appear associated with increased acute myocardial infarction and fatal traffic accidents, but also with decreased crimes involving physical harm. DST-Offset transitions appear associated with decreased all-cause mortality and workplace accidents, but also with increased crimes involving physical harm. Living with DST (compared to Standard Time) appears associated with decreased all-cause mortality and traffic accidents in summer. Standard Time appears is potentially associated with decreased sleep duration during winter. No clear and consistent effects on psychiatric outcomes are identified. Limited studies prevent clear conclusions being drawn regarding other sleep parameters or circadian rhythms. This review indicates that transitions and living with DST (as opposed to Standard Time) during summer months are not uniformly detrimental; however, the evidence base remains limited and heterogeneous. Rather than advocating for maintaining or removing transitions, our synthesis supports a balanced approach. We recommend recognising both adverse and beneficial patterns and prioritising strategies to mitigate risks while awaiting more robust evidence. Registration https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/R4W6M
Negotiating Faith in Therapy: A Qualitative Study of Christian Clients in Secular Psychotherapy
Get PDFAbstract The integration of religious and spiritual considerations in counseling and psychotherapy is increasingly recognized as essential for culturally sensitive practice and improved therapeutic outcomes. This study explored the experiences of 26 Christian clients with prior experience of secular psychotherapy or counseling through an online survey. Participants completed psychometric assessments of religious identity and mental distress and responded to open-ended questions capturing their qualitative experiences. A thematic analysis informed by a contextualist perspective identified three main themes: (1) Faith as Barrier and Bridge to Mental Health, (2) Negotiating Faith in the Therapy Room, and (3) Therapy as Transformation and Disappointment. Findings highlighted participants’ desire for integrated care addressing both spiritual and psychological needs, while also indicating that collaboration with faith leaders and secular professionals may be optimal in addressing distinct issues. Participants drew on biblical narratives to normalize psychological distress and reported using religious practices as coping strategies. They emphasized the importance of person-centered care and strong therapeutic alliances, noting that therapy facilitated meaning-making and self-expression when therapists were attuned and validating. These insights are valuable for therapists and pastoral workers seeking to support religious clients in navigating their faith identity in culturally responsive and clinically effective ways
Has anything changed for Fibromyalgia? Focus groups with patients on their lived experiences in England
Get PDFBackground: While awareness of Fibromyalgia (FM) has evolved across healthcare and social settings, individuals with FM continue reporting poor understanding of their condition in the everyday. Objective: To explore the lived experiences and subjective illness narratives of individuals with FM, focusing on personal understandings of FM, outlook on healthcare, and perceived attitudes of surrounding peers. Methods: We carried out four online focus groups with individuals diagnosed with FM. Participants were recruited from a pool of patients in a pain management centre in the Southwest of England, UK, that previously took part in a FM management course, ‘Body Reprogramming Course’ (BRC). Discussion topics included the personal understanding of FM (illness identity, timeline, causes, consequences, and controllability), history with FM diagnosis and treatment, attitudes of family and friends towards FM, as well as personal attitude towards medication. Audio recordings from focus groups were transcribed and analysed by two primary coders, using a reflexive thematic analysis approach. Codes were iteratively discussed and refined with two additional coders. Results: 20 individuals with FM took part in four focus groups, aged between 25 and 67 years. Analysis of the data revealed 5 overarching themes and 10-subthemes related to lived experiences of FM: 1) The individual journey; 2) FM in healthcare; 3) FM in social context; 4) FM in personal context; 5) Experiences with BRC. Although participants felt that there has been some positive societal shift towards FM, most discussions concerned personal struggles with conveying to family and healthcare professionals the impact of the condition. Participants described a significant emotional toll of dealing with hidden struggles. Many expressed disappointment with prior care, describing it as fragmented, and some expressed strong opposition to medication-based treatments. Reflecting on the BRC, participants liked the coping strategies and the developed connections. Conclusions: While participants recognised some positive changes in others’ understanding of FM, the overwhelming sentiment was that FM remains overall poorly received and supported by peers and healthcare professionals. Participants in the BRC described their experience of FM as part of a journey toward a higher purpose, linking their illness to personal growth
First record of Haematobia irritans (L.) (Diptera: Muscidae) infesting cattle in Northeastern Algeria
Get PDFHaematobia irritans (L.) is a haematophagous ectoparasite considered one of the most economically damaging pests of cattle, as it causes a decrease in milk production, growth retardation in calves due to reduced weaning weight, and weight loss in adult cattle. These flies can also transmit pathogenic agents. This study reports the first record of H. irritans in northeastern Algeria, in the wilayas of Mila and Guelma, during the active season of the insect from May to September in 2021 and 2022. A total of 181 cattle of various breeds, sexes, and ages were examined, and 1040 adult H. irritans specimens were collected. Among the examined cattle, 64 were found to be infested and were selected for detailed analysis. Adult flies were collected using sweep nets and tubes, pinned, and stored in collection boxes. Detailed data on cattle age, breed, and sex were recorded. Morphological identification was performed under a stereomicroscope confirming all specimens as H. irritans. Statistical analysis using the Kruskal-Wallis test revealed no significant differences in infestation according to age, sex, or breed of the cattle. The geographical distribution showed that 60% of the specimens originated from Guelma and 40% from Mila, indicating higher infestation pressure in Guelma. These results provide the first confirmed evidence of H. irritans in this region, highlight the potential impact on cattle health, and emphasize the need for further studies and the development of targeted control strategies
Better Design, Better Engagement, Better Data: Adolescents' Insights for Improving Health Research
Get PDFIntroduction: Adolescent health research can be hampered by a lack of representative participation, limited long‐term engagement, and inaccuracies in self‐reported responses. This study aimed to explore adolescents' perspectives on participating in health research in order to understand how to enhance engagement, representation, and data quality. Methods: Forty‐six adolescents (aged 16–18 years) at five English schools participated in nine focus groups held from March to July 2024. Constructivist grounded theory was deployed to explore factors influencing adolescents' participation in health research and the processes underpinning interactions between these factors. Results: Participants raised five main considerations regarding adolescents' participation in health research. They believed that (1) positive relationships with researchers can foster an atmosphere of (2) emotional security that reduces the potential influence of (3) others' judgments on adolescents' relationships and emotional security. They felt that the more (4) choice and control adolescents have throughout the research cycle, the more likely they are to feel secure, which encourages them to remain engaged in research and provide accurate self‐reported data. The combination of positive relationships with researchers and choice and control was thought to contribute to adolescents perceiving health research as an (5) influential collaboration, which empowers them to participate and provide accurate information, especially about their personal life experiences. Conclusion: This study suggests that enhancing adolescent engagement, representation, and data quality in research is possible but requires a substantial investment of time and resources. Such investment would enable researchers to foster positive relationships with adolescent participants by providing them with choice and control (where feasible) over research processes and by better communicating the potential impact of their participation. Given adolescent concerns about judgment and potential consequences of research participation, they are likely to benefit from clear, accurate, and reassuring conversations on these topics. Patient or Public Contribution: Two online meetings with a Young People's Advisory Group (YPAG) of adolescents aged 16 to 18 were conducted. In the first, eight participants provided feedback on a mock focus group's structure and content. In the second, they reviewed a conceptual model grounded in the focus group data, highlighting missing elements and aspects that lacked clarity
The billion-dollar case for sustaining palaeontology’s digital databases
Get PDFThe digital revolution has transformed palaeontology through the development of openly accessible, community-driven databases that underpin some of the most complex and large-scale empirical studies of the history of life on Earth. These systems safeguard high-effort, volunteered data and have revealed major macroevolutionary patterns, including the 'Big 5' mass extinctions. These efforts also represent remarkable global scientific and financial investment, which is continually required to support the next generation of databases and associated research. Here we conducted a survey of 118 palaeontological and allied Earth science databases, analysing their diversity dynamics, including origination and extinction rates. We show that approximately 85% of all community-curated databases have lifespans of less than 15 years, putting decades of investment at risk. We show that database creation effort has increased in the past 30 years, with peaks in database loss related to 5-year funding cycles. We advocate for strategies to enhance database longevity, including sustained funding models, stronger institutional support and modular backend architectures that better link international community databases to each other and to fossil specimens