bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Advancements in bioengineered and autologous skin grafting techniques for skin reconstruction: a comprehensive review
Authors: Dean Jillian , Hoch Cosima , Wollenberg Barbara , Navidzadeh Justin , Maheta Bhagvat , Mandava Anisha , Knoedler Samuel , Sherwani Khalil , Baecher Helena , Schmitz Alina , Alfertshofer Michael , Heiland Max , Kreutzer Kilian , Koerdt Steffen , Knoedler Leonard
Published: January 2025

The reconstruction of complex skin defects challenges clinical practice, with autologous skin grafts (ASGs) as the traditional choice due to their high graft take rate and patient compatibility. However, ASGs have limitations such as donor site morbidity, limited tissue availability, and the necessity for multiple surgeries in severe cases. Bioengineered skin grafts (BSGs) aim to address these drawbacks through advanced tissue engineering and biomaterial science. This study conducts a systematic review to describe the benefits and shortcomings of BSGs and ASGs across wound healing efficacy, tissue integration, immunogenicity, and functional outcomes focusing on wound re-epithelialization, graft survival, and overall aesthetic outcomes. Preliminary findings suggest ASGs show superior early results, while BSGs demonstrate comparable long-term outcomes with reduced donor site morbidity. This comparative analysis enhances understanding of bioengineered alternatives in skin reconstruction, potentially redefining best practices based on efficacy, safety, and patient-centric outcomes, highlighting the need for further innovation in bioengineered solutions.
Multiphysics analysis of the dual role of magnetoelectric nanoparticles in a microvascular environment: from magnetic targeting to electrical activation
Authors: Lenzuni Martina , Giannoni Paolo , Chiaramello Emma , Fiocchi Serena , Suarato Giulia , Ravazzani Paolo , Marrella Alessandra
Published: January 2025

Minimally invasive medical treatments for peripheral nerve stimulation are critically needed to minimize surgical risks, enhance the precision of therapeutic interventions, and reduce patient recovery time. Magnetoelectric nanoparticles (MENPs), known for their unique ability to respond to both magnetic and electric fields, offer promising potential for precision medicine due to their dual tunable functionality. In this study a multi-physics modeling of the MENPs was performed, assessing their capability to be targeted through external magnetic fields and become electrically activated. In particular, by integrating electromagnetic, fluid dynamics, and biological models, the efficacy of MENPs as wireless nano-tools to trigger electrical stimulation in the peripheral Nervous system present within the dermal microenvironment was assessed. The simulations replicate the blood venous capillary network, accounting for the complex interactions between MENPs, blood flow, and vessel walls. Results demonstrate the precise steering of MENPs (>95%) toward target sites under a low-intensity external magnetic field (78 mT) even with a low susceptibility value (0.45). Furthermore, the extravasation and electrical activation of MENPs within the dermal tissue are analyzed, revealing the generation of high-induced electric fields in the surrounding area when MENPs are subjected to external magnetic fields. Overall, these findings predict that MENPs can be targeted in a tissue site when intravenously administrated, dragged through the microvessels of the venous system, and activated by generating high electric fields for the stimulation of the peripheral nervous system.
Novel one-step lignin microsphere preparation for oral tissue regeneration applications
Authors: Shi Anyuan , Guo Li , Gu Chunning , Zhan Yunni , Zhou Xuelian , Cheng Wei
Published: January 2025

Lignin is a naturally derived biomacromolecule with excellent biocompatibility and the potential for biomedical application. For the first time, this study isolated nanosized lignin microspheres (LMSs) directly from wheat straw with a polyol-based deep eutectic solvent. The size of these LMSs can be regulated by changing the isolation parameters, ranging from 90 nm to 330 nm. The structures of these LMSs were comprehensively investigated by SEM, gel permeation chromatography (GPC), HSQC NMR, and 31P NMR, which explained the formation mechanism of the hydrophobicity-induced self-assembly. The LMSs show good antioxidation of 52.99%–76.26% toward DPPH. In vitro biomedical tests further revealed that the LMSs at concentrations <25 μg/mL had good biocompatibility toward gingival mesenchymal stem cells (GMSCs) and jaw bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (JBMMSCs), with a low apoptosis rate, outperforming other lignin materials. The presented results highlighted the application of the nanosized LMSs as a potential biomaterial in oral tissue regeneration.
Regulation of pyroptosis by NF-κB signaling
Authors: Yang Ling , Zhang Yan , Chai Zhuodong , Zhou Yuqi , Li Zhenyu , Wei Yinan
Published: January 2025

Pyroptosis is a form of proinflammatory cell death characterized by inflammasome activation, pore formation, and the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and IL-18 upon cell rupture. Nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB), a prototypical pro-inflammatory transcription factor, plays a critical role in immune system regulation. Recent research highlights the multifaceted roles of NF-κB signaling in pyroptosis. Various immunologically relevant ligands and their receptors can activate the NF-κB pathway to promote pyroptosis, with Toll-like receptors (TLRs), IL-1 receptors (IL-1Rs), and TNF receptors (TNFRs) being the most prominent. NF-κB regulates the transcription of key components of inflammasomes involved in pyroptosis, particularly the NLRP3 inflammasome. Recent studies also indicate that NF-κB modulates the activation of NLRC4 and AIM2 inflammasomes through distinct pathways in diverse inflammatory conditions, such as acute lung injury and neuroinflammation. Additionally, the NF-κB pathway mediates the production of inflammatory cytokines, including IL-1β, IL-33, and TNF-α, which further regulate pyroptosis. This review examines recent advances in understanding the role of the NF-κB signaling pathway in regulating pyroptosis during infection and inflammation.
A novel SEPT12 mutation, T96I, is associated with sperm head and annulus defects
Authors: Chen Kuan-Ru , Wang Han-Yu , Kuo Yung-Che , Lo Yu-Chih , Kuo Pao-Lin
Published: January 2025

Infertility affects around 8%–12% of reproductive-aged couples and is a major health concern. Both genetic and environmental factors influence male infertility. SEPTIN12 is a crucial testis-specific gene essential for the final differentiation of male germ cells and is strongly linked to male infertility due to numerous detected mutations. The present study identified a novel SEPTIN12T96I mutation that causes male infertility. Immunofluorescence staining and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analysis of T96I sperm revealed co-localization of SEPT12 and SEPT7 in the obliquely positioned annulus. In addition, the sperm carrying the T96I mutation demonstrated large nuclear vacuoles, irregular swelling, and decondensation of the acrosomal cap. The overexpression of SEPT12 T96I in NT2/D1 cells impaired the formation of SEPT7 filaments, emphasizing the significance of SEPT12 filaments for sperm morphology and function. Our results demonstrate the importance of SEPTIN12T96I in male infertility and offer valuable insights for future detection in infertile men.
A scATAC-seq atlas of stasis zone in rat skin burn injury wound process
Authors: Li Ruikang , Li Jiashan , Liu Shuai , Guo Xinya , Lu Jianyu , Wang Tao , Chen Junjie , Zheng Yue , Yuan Yue , Du Jiaxin , Zhu Bolin , Wei Xiaoyu , Guo Pengcheng , Liu Longqi , Xu Xun , Dai Xi , Huang Runzhi , Liu Xin , Hu Xiaoyan , Wang Shiwei , Ji Shizhao
Published: January 2025

Burn injuries often leave behind a “stasis zone”, a region of tissue critically important for determining both the severity of the injury and the potential for recovery. To understand the intricate cellular and epigenetic changes occurring within this critical zone, we utilized single-cell assay for transposase-accessible chromatin sequencing (scATAC-seq) to profile over 31,500 cells from both healthy rat skin and the stasis zone at nine different time points after a burn injury. This comprehensive approach revealed 26 distinct cell types and the dynamic shifts in the proportions of these cell types over time. We observed distinct gene activation patterns in different cell types at various stages post-burn, highlighting key players in immune activation, tissue regeneration, and blood vessel repair. Importantly, our analysis uncovered the regulatory networks governing these genes, offering valuable insights into the intricate mechanisms orchestrating burn wound healing. This comprehensive cellular and molecular atlas of the stasis zone provides a powerful resource for developing targeted therapies aimed at improving burn injury recovery and minimizing long-term consequences.
Effects of fermented Artemisia annua on the intestinal microbiota and metabolites of Hu lambs with naturally infected with Eimeria spp.
Authors: Liu Shuaiqi , Li Shiheng , Lu Shunli , Yang Mingfan , Liu Manyu , Li Juanfeng , Li Senyang , Jian Fuchun
Published: January 2025

Background

Sheep coccidiosis could disturb the balance of intestinal microbiota, causing diarrhea, and even death in lambs. Chemical drugs are the primary method of treating sheep coccidiosis, but their use will bring drug resistance, toxic side effects, drug residues, and other problems. Chinese herbal medicines are investigated as alternative methods for controlling coccidian infections.

Methods

In this study, the effect of fermented Artemisia annua (FA) on oocysts per gram (OPG), average daily gain (ADG), and expression of inflammatory factors were investigated in lambs that were naturally infected with coccidia.

Results

The results showed that the FA had similar anti-coccidiosis effect to the original drug, while the FA demonstrated a more significant effect on weight gain, and a better ability to reduce the inflammatory response compared to the unfermented drug during the treatment period (P < 0.05). Furthermore, High-throughput sequencing technology was used to study the effects of FA on intestinal microbiota, and fecal metabolites of naturally infected lambs. The species richness of intestinal microbiota of lambs was significantly improved by FA. The abundance of bacteria unclassified_Muribaculaceae, and UCG_005 were increased by fermentation of A. annua. The abundance of bacteria Escherichia_Shigella, unclassified_Clostridia_UCG_014, and Alistipes was reduced. The prevention, and treatment of coccidiosis by fermentation of A. annua may also be related to a series of metabolites affected by intestinal microbiota, including artemisinin, Lysyl-Proline, and TRP-tyrosine.

Conclusion

FA was found to have superior anti-coccidiosis, anti-inflammatory, and weight gain effects compared to the original Artemisia annua. Intestinal microbes and metabolites such as unclassified_Muribaculaceae, UCG-005, and Artemisinin were identified, suggesting their potential significance. Alistipes was proposed as a biomarker for predicting intestinal coccidia outbreak risk in lambs, pending further validation. The correlation between microbiota, and metabolites may provide new insights into pathogenic changes associated with Eimeria spp.
Strengthening Türkiye’s drought management: insights from international practices (Netherlands, UK and USA)
Authors: Yilmaz Ferhat , Osborn Dan , Tsamados Michel
Published: January 2025

This paper provides an examination of drought management strategies in three countries: the Netherlands, the United Kingdom (UK), and the United States of America (USA). Additionally, it includes an evaluation of Türkiye’s approaches to water management and drought mitigation. Despite differing geographic, economic, and political conditions, these countries face similar challenges in drought management. Their approaches to dealing with drought have been examined from various perspectives, including institutional structures, legal frameworks, and operational strategies, with a focus on water allocation priorities, stakeholder collaboration, and the utilization of monitoring tools and data. The case studies revealed insights and experiences that can be used to evaluate and improve Türkiye’s existing water management and drought mitigation strategies. By drawing on the experiences of top-performing nations in drought management, this paper provides insights for creating a strong and sustainable water management for Türkiye, effectively tackling the challenges posed by climate change and ensuring the long-term security of water resources.
Perspectives and challenges of marine carbon dioxide removal
Authors: Oschlies Andreas , Bach Lennart T. , Fennel Katja , Gattuso Jean-Pierre , Mengis Nadine
Published: January 2025

The Paris Agreement to limit global warming to well below 2°C requires drastic reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and the balancing of any remaining emissions by carbon dioxide removal (CDR). Due to uncertainties about the potential and durability of many land-based approaches to deliver sufficient CDR, marine CDR options are receiving more and more interest. We present the current state of knowledge regarding the potentials, risks, side effects as well as challenges associated with technical feasibility, governance, monitoring, reporting and accounting of marine CDR, covering a range of biotic and geochemical approaches. We specifically discuss to what extent a comparison with direct injection of CO2 into seawater, which had been proposed decades ago and is now prohibited by international agreements, may provide guidance for evaluating some of the biotic marine CDR approaches.
Asking the right questions: interrogating the logic and assumptions of paradigms used to investigate interactions between procedural and declarative memory in category learning
Authors: Kalra Priya B.
Published: January 2025

In this mini-review, the methods used to investigate interactions between procedural and declarative systems in category learning are considered. Methods that were originally used to establish dissociations between memory systems may be biased toward demonstrating competition between them. In contrast, a modification of Jacoby's Process Dissociation Procedure allows researchers to consider the relative contributions of multiple processes involved in task completion. The original PDP was designed to consider the contributions of recall and familiarity to recognition, but the logic of the PDP can be applied to the contributions of procedural and declarative processes in category learning. Suggestions for improving the possibility of detecting cooperation between systems using the PDP are given.
How to enhance generation Z users’ satisfaction experience with online fitness: a case study of fitness live streaming platforms
Authors: Wang Meng , Wang Zheng , Deng Rong
Published: January 2025

With the rapid development of digital technology, online fitness live streaming platforms have become effective tools for helping users enhance their physical activity and health. However, the attitudes of Generation Z users, who form a significant portion of the platform’s user base, remain unclear. Identifying the factors influencing Generation Z’s use of these platforms and improving user satisfaction can assist in refining platform design and services, promoting sustainable development. A mixed-methods approach was employed to collect 1,788 user reviews, which were consolidated into 40 items. A questionnaire was then distributed to 314 respondents. In the first round, 165 open-ended questionnaires were distributed to identify specific influencing factors through factor analysis, leading to the development of a user experience evaluation scale. In the second round, 314 scale-based questionnaires were distributed, and structural equation modeling (SEM) was employed to explore the relationships between various factors and user satisfaction, resulting in the construction of a user satisfaction model. The factors influencing Generation Z users’ engagement with the platforms include social interaction, usefulness, convenience, functional quality, and technical quality. Among these, social interaction is the most critical factor affecting user satisfaction. Generation Z has unique needs regarding digital platforms. Therefore, platforms should provide services tailored to their psychological and behavioral characteristics, optimize business operation models, and further enhance the user experience.
Right vertical axillary incision vs. median sternotomy for congenital ventricular septal defect repair in children: a propensity score-matched study
Authors: Liu Lijuan , Wang Chenhan , Dong Jie , Lin Jiayi , Liu Mingxiao , Li Wei , Zeng Debin , Yang Xiaohui , Deng Xicheng
Published: January 2025

Objective

To retrospectively assess the outcomes of open-heart repair for ventricular septal defect in children using a right vertical axillary incision compared to median sternotomy.

Method

From January 2022 to May 2023, children who underwent open-heart surgery for the repair of congenital ventricular septal defect in our department were selected for a propensity score-matched study. The propensity score matching method was utilized to pair children in the right vertical axillary incision group with those undergoing surgery via median sternotomy at a 1:1 ratio, based on age and weight.

Results

There were 35 cases in each group. In the right vertical axillary incision group, the median age was 15 (7–40) months and the median weight was 8 (7–12) kg. In the median sternotomy group, the median age was 7 (3–37) months and the median weight was 7 (5–14) kg. The age (Z = −1.871, p = 0.061) and weight (Z = −1.462, p = 0.144) of the two groups showed no significant differences. The right vertical axillary incision group exhibited a significantly shorter incision length compared to the median sternotomy group (p < 0.001). Additionally, the median postoperative drainage was lower in the right vertical axillary incision group than in the median sternotomy group (p = 0.044), indicating statistical significance. No significant differences were observed between the groups concerning operation time (p = 0.565), bypass time (p = 0.855), cross-clamp time (p = 0.204), oxygenation index one hour post-surgery (p = 0.651), pleural effusion at 12 h post-surgery (p = 0.470), abnormal postoperative electrocardiogram (p = 0.452), cardiac intensive care unit duration (p = 0.211), or length of hospital stay (p = 0.095). The hospitalized children were followed up for 3 months to 1 year, during which there were no fatalities or complications.

Conclusion

Open-heart repair of congenital ventricular septal defect through a right vertical axillary incision is a safe and effective surgical technique that minimizes surgical trauma and enhances aesthetic outcomes.
Exploring infodemiology: unraveling the intricate relationships among stress, headaches, migraines, and suicide through Google Trends analysis
Authors: Rushendran Rapuru , Chitra Vellapandian
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Google Trends has emerged as a vital resource for understanding public information-seeking behavior. This study investigates the interconnected search trends of stress, headaches, migraines, and suicide, highlighting their relevance to public health and mental well-being. By employing infodemiology, the study explores temporal and geographical patterns in search behavior and examines the impact of global events like the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

Data mining was conducted using Google Trends for the search terms “stress,” “headache,” “migraine,” and “suicide.” Relative Search Volume (RSV) data from October 2013 to October 2023 was collected and adjusted for time and location. Statistical analyses, including Pearson correlation tests, linear regression, and seasonal Mann-Kendall tests, were applied to identify correlations, trends, and seasonal variations. Geographical differences were also analyzed to understand regional disparities.

Results

Significant correlations were observed among the search terms, with “migraine” and “suicide” showing the strongest association. Seasonal variations revealed a peak in search volumes during winter months. Geographical analysis highlighted consistently high RSV in the Philippines for all terms. During the COVID-19 pandemic, searches for stress, headaches, and migraines showed notable increases, reflecting heightened public interest in mental health-related topics during this period.

Discussion

The study underscores the interconnected nature of stress, headaches, migraines, and suicide in public search behavior. Seasonal patterns and regional variations emphasize the need for targeted interventions. The observed surge in search volume during the COVID-19 pandemic highlights the profound impact of global crises on mental health and the importance of timely public health responses.

Conclusion

Google Trends provides valuable insights into the public's interest in health-related topics, demonstrating the intricate relationship between stress, headaches, migraines, and suicide. The findings highlight the need for increased mental health awareness and interventions, particularly during times of heightened stress. Further research is essential to develop strategies that mitigate the impact of these stressors on public health.
Concentration and distribution of B and Se in stream sediments of Zambia and their agricultural implications
Authors: Sun Hongwei , Ren Junping , Wang Jie , Zuo Libo , He Fuqing , Wu Xingyuan , Xu Kangkang , Mukofu Chipilauka , Dokowe Alphet Phaskani , Cao Shuping
Published: January 2025

The country's national scale geochemical mapping can provide crucial geochemical support for Zambia's foundational geology, agricultural productivity, environmental conservation, mineral exploitation, and other domains. This study aims to determine the overall abundance and regional distribution of B and Se in Zambian stream sediments, as well as their impact on the environment and on the agricultural output. The median concentrations of B and Se are 12.74 and 0.056 μg/g, respectively. While the concentration of Se was more noticeable, the distribution patterns of B concentration seemed to be more consistent and lacked distinct indicators for agricultural output. It also offers more robust recommendations for future land planning and agricultural growth. In comparison to other tectonic belts, the Domes Region, Lufilian Arc and Choma-Kalomo Block have greater median and average concentrations of Se. Black shales and vast epithermal metallogenic zones are common in the Kawana-Solwezi-Ndola and the Mansa-Mporokoso- Kasama regions, which also have high Se contents. These regions could serve as promising places for the advancement of selenium-enriched agricultural practices.
Stochastic inversion method based on compressed sensing frequency division waveform indication prior
Authors: Huang Minmin , Xu Leyi , Zhu Yanhui , He Ye , Li Zhiye , Lin Ying
Published: January 2025

The stochastic inversion method using logging data as conditional data and seismic data as constraint data has a higher vertical resolution than the conventional deterministic inversion method. However, it remains challenging to reduce the randomness of the prior obtained through conventional random simulation techniques and to enhance its accuracy. To address this, we propose a stochastic inversion method based on compressed sensing frequency-division waveform indication prior. This method fully considers the geophysical mapping relationship between the observed seismic data and the parameters to be inverted across different frequency bands. And the correlation coefficients between the seismic data at the known points and the predicted points are obtained by solving the low-rank system of equations through the compressed sensing method. Consequently, pseudo-kriging simulation of well data is performed based on the similarity between known and predicted seismic waveforms, thus establishing prior information indicated by the seismic waveforms. On this basis, the stochastic inversion results are solved using a very fast simulated annealing method. Both model calculations and field data inversion effects demonstrate that the compressed sensing frequency-division waveform indication method effectively improves the accuracy of solving prior information under a low-rank matrix. Ultimately, the proposed stochastic inversion method based on compressed sensing frequency division waveform indication prior enhances the inversion accuracy and provides advantages in identifying underground oil and gas reservoirs.
Experimental study of rock permeability in different fluid media: a case study of two clay-free sandstones
Authors: Yang Xin , Kang Bo , Xu Bin , Wang Hehua , Zhou Chunxiang , Jiang Kai , Li Xingfu
Published: January 2025

Permeability is a fundamental property of porous media that governs the ability of a pore network to facilitate fluid flow through its pore spaces. However, the permeability test results are highly influenced by the type of fluid used during the measurements. This study investigates the influence of different fluids on permeability, excluding fluid-solid interactions. Permeability measurements were conducted on 30 clay-free Fontainebleau sandstones and 30 clay-free Y sandstones using kerosene and N2, with Klinkenberg-corrected gas permeability determined for comparison. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was employed to examine the presence of liquid films and particle migration within pore throats. The results consistently showed lower oil permeability compared to gas permeability across all samples. SEM analysis revealed that liquid films on rock surfaces and particle migration within pore throats contributed to the permeability disparity between liquid and gas in Fontainebleau sandstone. In contrast, the lower hydrophilicity of Y sandstone resulted in a negligible presence of liquid films, with particle migration being the primary factor for reduced liquid permeability. Furthermore, a more pronounced slip effect was observed in Y sandstone compared to Fontainebleau sandstone, attributed to its finer pore throats. These findings underscore the critical roles of liquid films, particle migration, and pore throat characteristics in determining permeability and highlight the relationship between the slip factor and permeability in porous media.
Effectiveness of a train-the-trainer workshop series on teaching methods among nurse educators: an exemplar from Vietnam
Authors: Hoang Van Lan , Bui Hien Thi , Le Thuy Thi , Tran Duong Thuy , Hoang Hue Thi , Huynh Hong Thuy Phuong , Nguyen Thi Hoa Huyen
Published: January 2025

Nurse educators play a critical role in preparing the next generation of nurses to provide high-quality patient care. The ongoing preparation of knowledge and skills for nurse educators is crucial for maintaining the quality of nursing education, particularly during the unexpected challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic. This study aimed to examine the effectiveness of a workshop series on five concurrent teaching methods for nurse educators in Vietnam. A mixed-methods study was conducted. An online workshop series was conducted for 25 nurse educator representatives from five nursing schools across Vietnam. The workshop program covered of five teaching methods, including (i) teaching from face-to-face class to e-learning, (ii) team-based learning (TBL), (iii) case-based teaching (CBT), (iv) debriefing techniques used in simulation training, and (v) developing peer program to assist students’ learning. Pre- and post–surveys were used to test knowledge of teaching methods, followed by semi-structured individual interviews. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive and comparison statistics, while qualitative data underwent content analysis. Results showed a significant improvement in participants’ overall knowledge following the workshops, with the mean total score of correct answers increasing from 12.48 (SD = 2.77) in the pre-test to 16.8 (SD = 3.81) in the post-test. Substantial gains were observed in three specific areas: the classic progress of activities in team-based learning, Kolb’s experiential learning cycle in simulation debriefing techniques, and the core value of the peer mentoring model had significantly improved. Most nurse educators expressed satisfaction with the training workshops, with the “debriefing technique” being the most interesting topic. Two major themes emerged from the qualitative analysis: fostering interest in updated teaching methods and motivating the change. This study suggests that replicating the workshop series on teaching methods would be a beneficial in facilitating ongoing improvements in teaching practice in Vietnam’s nursing education system.
Facing the fear: a scaffolding approach to teaching life sciences undergraduates R coding
Authors: Paci Elena , Swainson Alex , Cerminara Nadia L.
Published: January 2025

Coding proficiency is becoming an essential skill for future life sciences graduates. Not only must researchers be able to handle and scrutinise increasingly large datasets, but alternative career paths often list coding as a desirable skill for applicants. With the additional advantage of promoting the development of key skills such as problem solving, critical thinking, and group work, there is an increasing need to expose students to principles of coding in a structured and paced way. Despite this, computational tools are often missing from Life Sciences undergraduate curricula. We suggest the reasons for this are barriers faced by both students and staff, which coalesce into a general fear surrounding the topic. From reservations surrounding the complexity of the topic and time input required, to the increased staffing load, there are several factors which contribute to a lack of coding proficiency in Life Sciences curricula. To overcome these barriers, we propose a scaffolding approach using RStudio for data analysis, that has been successfully implemented to teach basic coding skills to students in their first and second years of Neuroscience and Physiology programmes at University of Bristol (UK). We believe that this approach has been a successful route to lower students’ anxiety around coding and ease them into more complex tasks. In this perspective we will reflect on the current barriers, discuss our experience with overcoming them and consider implementations for future iterations.
Measurement through structural equations of the self-concept instrument in high-school students
Authors: Sabando-García Angel Ramón , Jiménez-Bustillo Oswaldo José , Llacsa-Puma Lidia Janeth , Castro-Castillo Graciela Josefina , Moreira-Choez Jenniffer Sobeida , Rengifo-Lozano Raúl Alberto
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Self-concept is a fundamental component of psychological and educational development, playing a critical role in students' academic performance and emotional wellbeing. Despite its importance, gaps remain in the validation of measurement instruments tailored to specific educational contexts.

Methods

This study employed a quantitative, predictive, and correlational methodology with a non-experimental cross-sectional design. A total of 172 adolescents from grades 8, 9, and 10 in a school in Santo Domingo, Ecuador, were selected through non-probabilistic convenience sampling. The Self-Concept Questionnaire FORM-5 (AF-5), which evaluates academic/occupational, social, emotional, family, and physical self-concepts, was administered. Data analysis utilized SPSS version 25 and AMOS 24 software to ensure reliability and validity through structural equation modeling.

Results

The AF-5 demonstrated high reliability, with a Cronbach's alpha of 0.854. Gender differences were observed, with females scoring higher in emotional self-concept and males excelling in physical self-concept. Structural equation modeling confirmed the instrument's significant factor loadings, validating its application in measuring self-concept.

Discussion

The findings highlight the robustness and applicability of the AF-5 in educational contexts, providing a validated tool to assess self-concept dimensions among upper elementary students. The study underscores the importance of using reliable instruments to better understand and support students' academic and emotional development. Further research is recommended to explore the instrument's application across diverse populations.
The climate-economic model of 27 EU countries at the NUTS 3 level
Authors: Hadačová Daniela , Jusková Dominika , Maličká Lenka , Vancová Jana
Published: January 2025

This paper examines the relationship between the changes in air temperature over recent decades and the economic performance of the European Union (EU) countries. It provides the climate-economic model of EU countries, considering the NUTS 3 regions to capture the within-country differences in air temperatures and economic growth at the regional level because of evident differences in the geographical landscape—elevation and climate. The sample covers 1,200 units at the NUTS 3 level from 2000 to 2022, using a panel data approach. In addition to the analysis provided at the NUTS 3 level, the paper’s uniqueness also lies in focusing on temperature variations using the Cooling index, a weather-based technical measure designed to describe the need for air cooling (or air conditioning). The findings confirm an inverse relationship between air temperatures and economic performance. These results contribute to the climate-economic literature that provides policy implications to shape public policies dealing with the impacts and risks of climate change.
Impact of public environmental concern on green technology innovation: a case study of the Yangtze River Delta in China
Authors: Hu Shengmei , Deng Hongbing , Jiao Hongrui , Qin Shuang
Published: January 2025

This study explores the impacts of PEC on green technology innovation (GTI), which includes both independent green technology innovation (IGTI) and cooperative green technology innovation (CGTI). It also analyzes the threshold effects of green finance (GF) and information and communication technology (ICT) to unlock the growth potential of GTI. To achieve this, we employ a two-way fixed-effects model and a threshold-effects model, utilizing city panel data from the Yangtze River Delta region of China, covering the years 2011–2020. The results indicate that PEC has a positive effect on GTI, IGTI, and CGTI. However, its impact on CGTI is relatively weaker. These findings remain valid after several robustness tests. Heterogeneity analysis shows that PEC promotes IGTI in research organizations, yet it fails to do so in firms. PEC enhances CGTI within cities, but not between them. Additionally, PEC positively affects GTI only when GF and ICT surpass certain thresholds. The threshold effect of GF is limited to IGTI, whereas ICT’s threshold effect is more stringent in CGTI. Based on these conclusions, we provide insights on leveraging public concerns to promote the growth of green innovation and how governments can create a favorable external environment for this.
The impact of climate risks on green technology innovation: an empirical study based on panel data of 269 cities in China
Authors: Wu Yangyulong
Published: January 2025

Climate risks include two elements: physical risks and transition risks. Exploring the impact of climate risks on green technology innovation contributes to sustainable development. This study uses panel data from 269 cities in China from 2008 to 2022 to explore the impact of climate risks on green technology innovation, and it employs Spatial Dubin Models for spatial effects analysis. The main research conclusions are as follows. First, the two components of climate risks—physical risks and transition risks—significantly hinder green technology innovation. Second, physical risks suppress green technology innovation by reducing market potential, while transition risks do so by decreasing foreign direct investment. Third, over time, green technology innovation shows a spatial clustering pattern of “low-low” and “high-high.” Fourth, physical risks create negative spatial spillover effects, while transition risks generate positive ones. Fifth, the spatial spillover effects of physical risks are mainly seen in the central region, while those of transition risks are primarily observed in the eastern and western regions, indicating significant regional heterogeneity. Finally, transition risks promoted green technology innovation in the period of 2018–2022, which is different from their suppressive effects in other time periods. In general, this study establishes a more comprehensive analytical framework that fills existing research gaps.
Evaluation and driving force analysis of relative effectiveness in the giant panda national park in Sichuan, China
Authors: Meng Bao , Wang Mengchao , Zhang Zhifeng , Pan Hongyi
Published: January 2025

Empirical analysis of the relative effectiveness of the Giant Panda National Park (GPNP) system can promote the optimization and improvement of its management level. Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) is a key indicator to measure the health of ecosystems, which can effectively quantitatively reveal the spatial and temporal changes of ecological protection effects. This study evaluated the relative effectiveness of Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) protection in the Sichuan area of the GPNP from 2000 to 2020 using the propensity score matching model (PSM). It also explored the influencing factors and interactions of each period by combining the Optimal Parameter-based Geographical Detector Model (OPGD). The results showed that: 1) The study area’s Relative Effectiveness Index (REI) was positive, suggesting effective ecological protection. The REI fell from 0.044 in 2000 to 0.031 in 2015 and although it then increased to 0.034 in 2020 to a small extent, the REI showed an overall decreasing trend, and the conservation effect has weakened. 2)The REI change patterns varied in different functional zones of the area, with a general fluctuation and decline, in which the Minshan and Baishuijiang Core Protection Area (MBJ-CPA) as a whole first rise and then fall, and it is the area with the best relative effectiveness of protection. 3) Natural factors such as temperature and elevation are the main factors affecting NDVI, while the influence of policy and economic factors such as the level of protected areas and distance to towns are increasing. The Qionglaishan and Adjacent Areas General Control Area (QLA-GCA) is dominated by the interaction of landscape pattern index with its remaining factors, and the rest of the functional areas are dominated by the interaction of natural factors such as temperature, evapotranspiration with its remaining factors. Therefore, in future development, the Qionglaishan Areas need to pay more attention to the optimization of landscape patterns, while the other areas need to pay more attention to the impact of climate change on the ecosystem. This study can provide a reference for the improvement and management of ecological protection of the GPNP system in the future.
How environmental patents, education, and energy transition impact greenhouse gases: evidence from E7 countries
Authors: Zhang Bing , Wang Yujing , Liu Mingyang , Mehmood Usman
Published: January 2025

Mitigating greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) is crucial to achieving sustainable development and ensuring a prosperous and environmentally sound future. This study is motivated by the pressing need to address the environmental challenges faced by the E−7 economies—Brazil, India, Indonesia, Russia, Mexico, China, and Turkey—due to their rapid economic transitions and significant contributions to global GHG emissions. It investigates the long-term impact of environmental patents (ENP), financial development (FD), energy transition (ENT), and education (EDU) on GHG in the E−7 nations using second-generation econometric methods, including momentum quantile regression (MMQR), over the period 1990–2019. It also investigates the moderating effects of FD on ENT and EDU in influencing GHG emissions. The results reveal that ENT and ENP reduce GHG emissions across all quantiles, with ENT’s effect stronger at lower quantiles and ENP’s influence intensifying at higher quantiles. EDU shows a consistent positive impact on GHG across quantiles, reflecting its role in driving industrialization and energy demand, while FD reduces GHG emissions significantly at higher quantiles, supporting its role in green investments. Interaction terms indicate that FD enhances the impact of ENT in reducing GHG emissions but moderates EDU’s effect in a way that can either amplify or offset emissions depending on the context. The robustness analysis validates these findings, particularly for ENT and FD, and highlights EDU’s potential for emissions reduction under specific conditions. These findings emphasize the need for targeted policies that leverage ENT and ENP for emissions reduction, strategically direct FD toward sustainable investments, and manage the dual role of EDU in emissions dynamics. This study offers critical insights for policymakers in the E−7 nations to balance economic growth with environmental sustainability, contributing to global efforts to combat climate change.
The impact of foreign direct investment on green technology progress in China on two-carbon background: taking trade openness into consideration
Authors: Yi Ming , Xu Longyu , Zhang Tian , Ao Lian , Sun Meng
Published: January 2025

With the proposal of the carbon peaking and carbon neutrality strategy, the concept of green and low-carbon began to take root, and the influence of foreign direct investment on the progress of green technology is attracting more and more attention. Based on the panel data of 30 provinces in China from 2011 to 2020, this study examines the effect of green technology progress on FDI and its geographic and policy heterogeneity by using generalized least square regression method, and discusses its mechanism combined with the moderating effect of trade opening. The results show that: (1) the introduction of FDI has a significant positive effect on green technology progress, while the moderating effect of trade openness weakens the positive effect, which has a negative impact on green technology progress; (2) The results of the heterogeneity analysis suggest that the Belt and Road Initiative is an important factor in the moderating effect of trade openness. Beneficiary provinces along the Belt and Road are able to reap the positive effects of trade in terms of green technological advances, while regional differences based on geographic location gradually weaken. This study provides a new policy reference for boosting green technology progress in China and different provinces and helping to achieve the two-carbon goal from the two aspects of introducing FDI and coordinating trade openness.
Forest value chain resilience from a local perspective in five European countries: analysis of predictors and co-drivers
Authors: García-Jácome Sandra P. , Jankovský Martin , Hoeben Annechien Dirkje , Lindner Marcus , Uzquiano Sara , Stern Tobias , Nuhlíček Ondrej , Vuletić Dijana , Marjanović Hrvoje , Picos Juan , Peltoniemi Mikko , Baumbach Lukas , Lloret Francisco
Published: January 2025

Climate change-associated disturbances such as storms, wildfires, and pest outbreaks increasingly destabilize forest systems, threatening their ecological, economic, and social functions. These disruptions impact the forest value chain (FVC) by causing fluctuations in timber supply, from a quantity and quality perspective. This study employed the operational resilience framework (ORF) to assess FVC resilience in five European case studies (CZ, HR, DE, FIN, and ESP), focusing on timber supply as a key system variable. A resilience assessment was conducted using resilience thresholds, considering sustainability from both ecological and economic perspectives. Principal component analysis (PCA) identified three predictor groups that influenced FVC resilience: wood production (WP), harvesting systems (HS), and management and silviculture (MS). Findings revealed that regions with proactive management and sufficient processing capacities (CZ, HR, and ESP) maintained relative stability despite natural disturbances, while others (DE and FIN) experienced prolonged instability due to market-driven logging practices and limited adaptive measures. The study highlighted the frequent breaching of resilience thresholds, particularly during high-volume salvage logging following disturbances such as bark beetle outbreaks, windstorms, and wildfires. The results emphasized the importance of integrating adaptive and proactive strategies to mitigate these impacts. The ORF demonstrated potential for operationalizing FVC resilience and provided guidance for improving preparedness against future disturbances.
Optimizing electric bus performance via predictive maintenance: a combined experimental and modeling approach
Authors: Ibrahim Hisham , Ali Ahmed M. , Attia Tamer
Published: January 2025

Introduction

This study explores the optimization of Electric Bus (EB) performance by integrating predictive maintenance strategies, utilizing real-time data and advanced modeling techniques.

Methods

The study involves installing measurement sensors to capture dynamic behavior and energy consumption during actual road trips, analyzing the collected data to refine vehicle dynamics models and assess battery degradation under various operational conditions, and employing a multi-objective optimization framework to minimize battery degradation while ensuring efficient energy use and maintaining operational requirements.

Results and Discussion

The study offers valuable insights into battery management strategies, revealing that battery degradation can be reduced by 25% through optimum driving behavior, which can be achieved in real driving conditions by avoiding aggressive driving. This research supports the broader goal of promoting sustainable public transportation solutions through the effective use of electric buses, enabling operators to extend battery longevity and enhance overall vehicle performance by implementing the identified strategies.
Genetically modified chickens as bioreactors for protein-based drugs
Authors: Meng Shujuan , Miao Aijun , Wu Sen , Du Xuguang , Gao Fei
Published: January 2025

Protein drug production encompasses various methods, among which animal bioreactors are emerging as a transgenic system. Animal bioreactors have the potential to reduce production costs and increase efficiency, thereby producing recombinant proteins that are crucial for therapeutic applications. Various species, including goats, cattle, rabbits, and poultry, have been genetically engineered to serve as bioreactors. This review delves into the analysis and comparison of different expression systems for protein drug production, highlighting the advantages and limitations of microbial, yeast, plant cell, and mammalian cell expression systems. Additionally, the emerging significance of genetically modified chickens as a potential bioreactor system for producing protein-based drugs is highlighted. The avian bioreactor enables the expression of target genes in ovarian cells, resulting in the production of corresponding gene expression products in egg whites. This production method boasts advantages such as a short cycle, high production efficiency, low research costs, and the expression products being closer to their natural state and easier to purify. It demonstrates immense potential in production applications, scientific research, and sustainable development. The utilization of advanced gene editing technologies, such as CRISPR/Cas9, has revolutionized the precision and efficiency of generating genetically modified chickens. This has paved the way for enhanced production of recombinant therapeutic proteins with desired glycosylation patterns and reduced immunogenic responses.