bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Polydatin retards the progression of osteoarthritis by maintaining bone metabolicbalance and inhibiting macrophage polarization
Authors: Sun Qi , Nan Xin-Yu , Wang Hui , Pan Shuo , Ji Gang , Guo Ya-Feng , Zhao Ya-Heng , Li Gao-Cen , Guo Shao-Shi , Lin Lu-Feng , Jin Yu-Jie , Zhang Xue Li , Liu Chang-Cheng , Liu Guo-Bin
Published: January 2025

Background

Polydatin (PD), also known as tiger cane glycoside, is a natural compound extracted from the Japanese knotweed plant, which is often referred to as white resveratrol. It exhibits anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-apoptotic effects in the treatment of various diseases. However, the potential molecular mechanisms of PD in osteoarthritis have not been clearly elucidated.

Methods

Anterior cruciate ligament transection (ACLT) surgery was performed to establish an osteoarthritis animal model. Female mice at the age of 12 weeks were intraperitoneally injected with different concentrations of PD (20 and 40 mg/kg). In vitro models were established by isolating mouse articular chondrocytes, which were subsequently treated with lipopolysaccharide or IL-1β for 24 h for subsequent experiments. In addition, different concentrations of PD were administered for 12 h. Morphological changes were observed by toluidine blue staining, joint bone metabolism changes were observed by tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase staining, immunohistochemistry was used to observe the expression levels of inflammatory factors and extracellular matrix. MicroCT analysis was conducted to assess changes in the microstructure of subchondral bone trabeculae, and Western blot was performed to measure the expression of nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) signaling pathway and markers of M1 polarization in macrophages.

Results

PD significantly delays the progression of osteoarthritis induced by ACLT, effectively inhibits IL-1β-induced joint inflammation, bone metabolic remodeling and extracellular matrix degradation. In addition, paeoniflorin markedly suppresses the transmission of the NF-κB signaling pathway and reverses M1 polarization in macrophages induced by IL-1β.

Conclusion

Taken together, PD might be a potential therapeutic agent for the prevention and treatment of osteoarthritis.
Application of blockchain technology in digital music copyright management: a case study of VNT chain platform
Authors: Shi Qilong , Zhou Yan
Published: January 2025

Introduction

This paper presents the design and development of a digital music copyright management system, built on the VNT Chain blockchain platform. The system aims to enhance copyright proof and evidence storage, verify the originality of music copyrights, and facilitate secure copyright transactions.

Methods

The system leverages blockchain technology for data integrity and immutability, utilizes the Shazam algorithm to verify music originality, and employs smart contracts to secure transactions. It is composed of six functional modules: user management, copyright registration, copyright trading, infringement monitoring, evidence storage, and music ecology. The system uses blockchain, the InterPlanetary File System (IPFS), and MySQL to manage various business data requirements.

Results

Experimental results show that the registration time for each music piece increased by approximately 1.9 s. Additionally, the average feature fingerprint data for each music piece stored on IPFS consumed about 8 MB, which aligns with the expected system performance criteria.

Discussion

The system meets performance expectations, offering secure and efficient copyright registration and evidence storage. The use of blockchain and IPFS provides a scalable, reliable solution for managing digital music copyrights.
Interaction of drivers and barriers of sustainable property management practice in shopping malls in Lagos, Nigeria
Authors: Nyirenda Lumbani B. , Ayedun Caleb A. , Musonda Innocent , Iroham Chukwuemeka O. , Olukanni David O. , Okagbue Hilary I. , Samuel Olugbemisola W. , Nto Sunday E.
Published: January 2025

Extant studies on sustainable property management (SPM) are yet to be reported for shopping malls in developing countries. Shopping malls play a vital role in commercial activities in developing countries. This study investigates the strategies and the interaction of the drivers and barriers to SPM practice being adopted in the management of three randomly selected shopping malls in Lagos, Nigeria. The primary data utilized were elicited with the aid of a questionnaire served on 130 tenants of the three shopping malls. The obtained data were analyzed using statistical tools such as mean ranking, frequency distribution, exploratory factor analysis (EFA), confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and mediation analysis. LED energy saving bulbs (90%) and green leasing (6.9%) are the most and least adopted features while using environmental cleaning procedures (83%) and adopting green leasing (36.4%) are the top and least SPM adopted strategy. Health and wellbeing of occupants (88.4%), cost savings (87%) and regulatory requirements (85%) were ranked the top three drivers while EFA grouped the factors into 2: direct and indirect. Financial and economic barrier (4.2/5) were top while cultural factors (3.97/5) were the least. The interactions of the latent barrier factors were exposed by the CFA and mediated regression models. In conclusion, this article explored SPM within shopping mall operations, presenting evidences that, while beneficial in reinforcing the relevance of sustainability in the real estate sector, ultimately contributes modestly to the broader academic discourse on the subject.
Understanding earthquake potential for future hazard mitigation
Authors: Triyoso Wahyu , Kongko Widjo , Prasetya Gegar S.
Published: January 2025

This study re-examines a broad region of the Sumatran subduction zone and off-coast southern West Java, building on findings of relative quiescence and utilizing the modified probability gain (mG) concept. By comparing pre- and post-quiescence seismicity, we identify potential earthquake sources and assess associated tsunami hazards. We propose a novel combined model integrating normalized seismicity smoothing, geodetic moment rate, and mG to characterize earthquake likelihood better. This model, coupled with a robust seismicity rate model, enables a spatiotemporal earthquake potential hierarchy for refined seismic hazard assessment. Our results confirm prior quiescence findings in specific zones and identify novel potential source regions for significant future earthquakes. We estimate tsunami height, emphasizing the importance of multiple source areas and static stress loading. By examining pre- and post-event expectations, we aim to improve understanding of major earthquakes in the Sumatran Subduction Zone and inform disaster mitigation strategies. This study provides crucial insights for enhanced regional earthquake and tsunami preparedness.
Experimental study on slope consolidation sand tanks based on the artificial ground freezing method
Authors: Wang Zhenwei , Cao Huiqing , Wang Shaoqi , Zhao Mengfei , Song Wei
Published: January 2025

Slope stability is an important factor affecting safe production in large surface coal mines. Most traditional slope fixation methods adopt grouting and anchor reinforcement. However, cementing rock and soil using conventional methods is challenging in areas with high water content. This study innovatively proposes the application of artificial ground freezing technology to reinforce the slopes of large-scale open-pit coal mines and verifies the technical feasibility of this technique. Five conditions are investigated via sandbox tests and the development characteristics of the freezing temperature field are analyzed. The results show that different water contents, lithologies, and the presence or absence of seepage affect freezing. Specifically, when the water content is 7.3%, the freezing radius is 220 mm; when the water content is increased to 27.4%, the freezing radius extends to 300 mm. Sand has the fastest freezing rate at 0.072°C/h, while lignite has the slowest freezing rate at 0.061°C/h. The temperature drop rates are 0.068°C and 0.058°C/h for the impermeable and seepage conditions, respectively. Moreover, the fitting function y = A1e-x/A2+A3 adequately describes the temperature profile decrease. The results of the study provide a basis for the precise design of freezing programs to further realize green and low-carbon, large-scale slope stabilization.
NHERI@UTexas experimental facility with large-scale mobile shakers for field studies: a decade of discovery in natural hazards engineering
Authors: Stokoe Kenneth H. , Hwang Sungmoon , Cox Brady R. , Clayton Patricia M. , Gilbert Robert B.
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Natural hazards present significant risks to infrastructure and communities, emphasizing the importance of advanced tools and methods to better understand and mitigate these challenges. The Natural Hazards Engineering Research Infrastructure (NHERI) experimental facility at the University of Texas (NHERI@UTexas), funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF), addresses this need by offering unique resources for large-scale field testing.

Methods

NHERI@UTexas contributes unique, large-scale, literally one-of-a-kind, mobile dynamic shakers and associated instrumentation to investigate seismic, cyclic, and static in-situ testing. These capabilities allow researchers to conduct experiments on actual infrastructure and geotechnical systems under real-world conditions, often impossible to accurately simulate in the laboratory.

Results

NHERI@UTexas has supported pioneering research in several areas, including: (1) enhanced 2D/3D geotechnical and seismic subsurface imaging, (2) in-situ characterization of liquefaction resistance and nonlinear dynamic soil behavior, (3) development of in-situ nondestructive soil-foundation-structure interaction (SFSI) methods, and (4) rapid geotechnical assessments following natural hazard events. These efforts have advanced the validation and calibration of numerical model and methodologies using full-scale experimental data.

Discussion

NHERI@UTexas enable researchers to gain new insights and drive innovations in advancing resilient and sustainable solutions for natural hazards problems.
New insight in immunotherapy and combine therapy in colorectal cancer
Authors: Ji Kai , Jia Hang , Liu Zixuan , Yu Guanyu , Wen Rongbo , Zhang Tianshuai , Peng Zhiying , Man Wenjiang , Tian Yucheng , Wang Can , Ling Qianlong , Zhang Wei , Zhou Leqi , Liu Mulin , Zhu Bing
Published: January 2025

The advent of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) in colorectal cancer (CRC) treatment marks a major breakthrough. These therapies have proven safer and more effective than traditional radiotherapy and targeted treatments. Immunotherapies like pembrolizumab, nivolumab, and ipilimumab have pioneered new treatment avenues, potentially improving patient outcomes and quality of life. Additionally, advances in immunotherapy have prompted detailed research into CRC therapies, especially those integrating ICIs with conventional treatments, providing new hope for patients and shaping future research and practice. This review delves into the mechanisms of various ICIs and evaluates their therapeutic potential when combined with radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and targeted therapies in clinical settings. It also sheds light on the current application and research involving ICIs in CRC treatment.
Involvement of RBP-J interacting and tubulin-associated protein in the distribution of protein regulator of cytokinesis 1 in mitotic spindles
Authors: Caspers Julia , Ritter Andreas , Bahrami Badi , Hoock Samira Catharina , Roth Susanne , Friemel Alexandra , Oswald Franz , Louwen Frank , Kreis Nina-Naomi , Yuan Juping
Published: January 2025

The protein regulator of cytokinesis 1 (PRC1) is a key regulator of microtubule crosslinking and bundling, which is crucial for spindle formation and cytokinesis. RITA, the RBP-J interacting and tubulin-associated protein, is a microtubule associated protein. We have reported that RITA localizes to mitotic spindles modulating microtubule dynamics and stability as well as to spindle poles affecting the activity of Aurora A. As defective chromosome congression and segregation are the most remarkable features of cells depleted of RITA, we aimed to explore further potential related mechanisms, using various cellular and molecular techniques, including clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats technique/deactivated CRISPR-associated protein 9 (CRISPR/dCas9), mass spectrometry, confocal microscopy, immunofluorescence, immunoprecipitation and Western blot analysis. Here, we show that FLAG-RITA precipitates PRC1 and tubulin, and that these two proteins co-localize in the central region of the central spindle. Reduction of RITA enlarges the staining area of PRC1 in mitotic spindles as well as in the central spindle. Its suppression reduces the inter-centromere distance in metaphase cells. Interestingly, microtubule bundles of the central spindle are often less organized in a non-parallel pattern, as evidenced by increased angles, relative to corresponding separating chromosomes. These data suggest a novel role for RITA in mitotic distribution of PRC1 and that its deregulation may contribute to defective chromosome movement during mitosis. As both RITA and PRC1 are closely associated with malignant progression, further work is required to elucidate the detailed molecular mechanisms by which RITA acts as a modulator in central spindle formation and cytokinesis.
Exploring the mediating role of blood metabolites in the relationship between gut microbiota and gastric cancer risk: a Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Li Xiaocheng , Lin Huapeng , Peng Jing , Gong Jianping
Published: January 2025

Background

Prior studies have established correlations between gut microbiota (GM) dysbiosis, circulating metabolite alterations, and gastric cancer (GC) risk. However, the causal nature of these associations remains uncertain.

Methods

We utilized summary data from genome-wide association studies (GWAS) on GM (European, n=8,956), blood metabolites (European, n=120,241; East Asian, n=4,435), and GC (European, n=476,116; East Asian, n=167,122) to perform a bidirectional Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis, investigating the causal effects of GM and metabolites on GC risk. Additionally, we conducted mediation analysis (two-step MR) to identify potential metabolite mediators in the GM-GC relationship.

Results

We identified twelve negative and seven positive associations between specific GM taxa and GC risk. For blood metabolites, seven traits were found to be significantly associated with reduced GC risk in the European population, with these findings subsequently validated in the East Asian cohort. Three GM taxa showed potential causal associations with five metabolic traits: the Bacteroidia class and Bacteroidales order were positively correlated with five metabolites (all P < 0.013), while Bacteroides OTU97_27 exhibited a negative correlation with one metabolite (P = 0.007). Two-step MR analysis indicated that total lipids in intermediate-density lipoprotein (IDL), IDL particle concentration, phospholipids in medium low-density lipoprotein (LDL), phospholipids in small LDL, and free cholesterol in small LDL indirectly influenced the association between Bacteroidia class/Bacteroidales order and GC, with mediation proportions of 1.71% (P = 0.048), 1.69% (P = 0.048), 2.05% (P = 0.045), 1.85% (P = 0.048), and 1.99% (P = 0.045), respectively.

Conclusion

The present study provides suggestive evidence of a causal relationship between specific GM, blood metabolites, and GC risk, potentially offering new insights into GC etiology.
Identifying subgroup of severe community-acquired pneumonia based on clinical metagenomics, a multicenter retrospective cohort study
Authors: Wang Mingqiang , Jin Yue , Zhang Wenxiao , Ye Ling , Shao Huanzhang
Published: January 2025

Objective

Severe community-acquired pneumonia (sCAP) is one of the major diseases within the ICU. We hypothesize that subtyping sCAP based on simple inflammatory markers, organ dysfunction, and clinical metagenomics results is feasible.

Method

In this study, we retrospectively enrolled immunocompetent sCAP patients requiring invasive mechanical ventilation, who underwent clinical metagenomics from 17 medical centers. We collected data on potentially pathogenic species reported by clinical metagenomics and clinical information for all patients. Latent class analysis (LCA) was applied to routine clinical parameters such as gender, age, white blood cell (WBC), lymphocytes, C-reactive protein (CRP), and Procalcitonin (PCT), identifying two optimally fitting models.

Results

A total of 569 patients were enrolled. Compared to class B, class A was characterized by a younger age, higher CRP and PCT levels, and a higher incidence of coagulation dysfunction, liver failure, circulatory failure, and renal failure. However, the mortality rates were similar between the two groups. In class A, more cases of Streptococcus spp. and fewer cases of HSV-1 and Candida spp. were detected. Among the patients in the two phenotypes, 48.7% and 57.5% received corticosteroid treatment, respectively. In the class A, corticosteroid treatment was not associated with patient mortality (unadjusted hazard ratio (HR)=0.988; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.634–1.541; p=0.959). In contrast, in the class B group, the use of corticosteroids was associated with a reduced mortality rate (adjusted HR=0.719; 95% CI, 0.525–0.986; p=0.04). Additional analysis showed that in class B, methylprednisolone was associated with reduced mortality (adjusted HR=0.61; 95% CI, 0.44–0.86; p=0.005), while dexamethasone was not associated with mortality (adjusted HR=1.4; 95% CI, 0.89–2.22; p=0.148). In addition, after dose conversion, the results showed that higher doses of corticosteroids in class B were associated with increased mortality (adjusted HR=1.01; 95% CI, 1.00–1.01; p=0.005).

Conclusion

We identified two classes based on clinical metagenomics and clinical features. Class B exhibited a better response to corticosteroid compared to class A. The rapid identification of these phenotypes could facilitate the screening of sCAP patients responsive to corticosteroid in future prospective clinical trials.
State of knowledge of the population of the vaquita (Phocoena sinus) from the Upper Gulf of California: a bibliometric analysis
Authors: Arreguín-Sánchez Francisco , Zetina-Rejón Manuel J. , Vergara-Solana Francisco Javier , Del Monte-Luna Pablo , Rodríguez-Fuentes Marian , Arreguín-Rodríguez Gabriela J. , Medina-Contreras Diana , Sánchez-Velasco Laura
Published: January 2025

The state of scientific knowledge about the vaquita, Phocoena sinus, is presented, a critically endangered endemic species of the Upper Gulf of California, Mexico. Several bibliographic repositories were explored, selecting Web of Science because it considers the Science Citation Index as a selection criterion. A bibliometric and bibliographic analysis of the literature was carried out. A network of associations was built based on the co-occurrence of sets of keywords, which reflect the relevance of the research topics discussed. Two sets stand out: population and conservation. Unaddressed topics are also identified, such as trophic interdependencies, ecosystem, effects of the environment and climate patterns. Regarding the population, topics such as changes in abundance, vulnerability, distribution and current habitat have been addressed. In terms of conservation, the monotonic decrease in the size of the population stands out, the management aimed at stopping this decrease and the interaction with commercial and illegal fishing. In conclusion, the measures adopted have not been effective, given that the vaquita population continues to decline. There are failures in the application of regulations, insufficient monitoring and surveillance, unregistered captures, illegal fishing and the limited participation of human communities in the design and implementation of the regulations, perceiving damages and lack of interest in compliance with the regulations and proposed measures. Beyond the knowledge gained, research is needed to answer a key question: are current habitat and ecosystem conditions suitable for the vaquita population to recover? The answer to this question requires different and even currently non-existent knowledge.
Chinese patent medicine tongxinluo capsule as a supplement to treat chronic coronary syndromes: a GRADE-assessed systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Liang Shi-Bing , Wang Yi-Fei , Niu Zhen-Chao , Li Yu-Fei , Zheng Hui-Min , Huan Jia-Ming , Yuan Jie , Robinson Nicola , Liu Jian-Ping , Li Yun-Lun
Published: January 2025

Background

Chronic coronary syndromes (CCS) is a common clinical condition that increases the risk of cardiovascular events at any time. Tongxinluo capsules (TXL) are widely used in China for treating CCS.

Objectives

To systematically evaluate the therapeutic effects and safety of adding TXL to Western medical treatment (WM) for CCS.

Methods

We searched PubMed, Cochrane Library, CNKI, VIP, and Wanfang databases up to August 2024 for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) investigating the therapeutic effects and safety of combining TXL with WM compared to WM alone for CCS. Data analyses were conducted using RevMan 5.4 software.

Results

Twenty studies involving 2091 participants were identified. Evidence supports the use of TXL plus WM for reducing angina frequency [SMD −2.50, 95% CI (−3.53, −1.48)], improving seattle angina questionnaire scores (P < 0.05), decreasing nitroglycerin dose [SMD −1.63, 95% CI (−2.26, −1.00)], and shortening angina duration [MD −1.50 min/once, 95% CI (−1.98, −1.02)]. Adding TXL to WM showed a non-significant trend toward reducing myocardial infarction [RR 0.34, 95% CI (0.05, 2.12); NNT = 41] and sudden cardiac death [RR 0.34, 95% CI (0.01, 8.28); NNT = 65]. No increase in adverse events was observed when TXL was added to WM [RR 1.02, 95% CI (0.70, 1.49); NNT = 149].

Conclusions

Our review suggests that TXL may offer additional therapeutic benefits for CCS patients and appears to be safe when combined with WM. Further investigations are warranted to confirm the potential impact of adding TXL to WM for CCS.

Systematic Review Registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42024499031, PROSPERO (CRD42024499031).
Screen on = development off? A systematic scoping review and a developmental psychology perspective on the effects of screen time on early childhood development
Authors: Sticca Fabio , Brauchli Valérie , Lannen Patricia
Published: January 2025

Research on the associations between screen time and child development suggests that various forms of screen time might pose a risk for various aspects of child development. However, data on the impact of exposure to screen media on the development of children under 3 years of age is comparatively scarce. Although the evidence available on the topic is evolving rapidly, no review of existing literature has yet encompassed a comprehensive set of developmental outcomes with a focus in the first 3 years of life. To address this research gap, the present literature review focused on the influences of screen time on various developmental outcomes of children aged zero to 36 months. These outcomes were sleep-related parameters, physical health, cognition, learning efficiency, language, motor skills, socio-emotional skills, social interaction, and overall development. To this end, ten databases were searched systematically, and 158 studies that were published between the launch of the iPhone in early 2007 until 2024 were included. Only studies that reported specific results for the age range of zero to 36 months were examined, including longitudinal studies with samples of children aged zero to 36 months at the first wave of assessment. For most outcomes, a comparable amount of undesirable and non-significant associations was found with children's screen time, while few desirable associations were reported. In line with the notion of resilience, these results indicate that characteristics of the child, the context, and/or the content moderate the associations between screen time and child development in early childhood, thus contributing to mitigating the potential of displacement of learning opportunities or even creating new learning opportunities. More studies with designs that can examine the causal effect of screen time on child development and that explicitly address the role of child, content, and context variables are needed.
Plant commodification in Northern Mesopotamia: evidence from the Early Bronze Age site of Kani Shaie, Iraqi Kurdistan
Authors: Joka Karolina
Published: January 2025

One of the milestones in the trajectory of economic and social change that spurred increasing societal complexity, and urbanization was the commodification of natural resources, such as plants, animals, and their derived products. In this paper, I examine new evidence of agricultural surplus in a small-scale Early Bronze Age (dated approximately to 2900 to 2300 BCE) community at Kani Shaie in the Bazyan Valley, Iraqi Kurdistan, situating it within the broader context of early commodification and the redistribution of staple foodstuffs. Excavations at an architectural complex dated to the early phase of the EBA suggest its function as a food storage and redistribution center, supported by the presence of administrative remains (sealings), restricted access to the space, and carefully stored agricultural crops, likely intended as the basis for meals. Considering the strategic location of Kani Shaie at a junction between the mountainous Zagros region and the Mesopotamian lowlands, the site's role as a redistribution center can be analyzed within the context of mobility networks linking lowland plains and highland valleys. This contributes to the broader discussion on the role of small, remote administrative centers in the commodification of plant resources, both preceding and existing outside major centers of urbanization.
Geochemical characteristics and organic matter accumulation mechanism of the Permian Shanxi Formation transitional shale, eastern Ordos Basin: implications for paleo-weathering, provenance and tectonic setting
Authors: Zhuang Hongzhan , Jiang Yuqiang , Li Xingtao , Jiang Chan , Li Shuxin , Wang Zhanlei
Published: January 2025

The transitional shale of the Permian Shanxi Formation is an important source rock for shale gas, tight sandstone gas, and coalbed methane in the Ordos Basin. This study takes third Sub-Member of Shanxi Formation as an example, and uses continuously collected shale core samples and matching geochemical data to restore the paleo-environmental conditions of its depositional period, clarify the formation mechanism of organic rich shale in different sedimentary environments under transitional facies background. According to different types of cross-plot patterns, paleo-weathering, provenance sources, and tectonic backgrounds were determined in this study. The results indicate that Shanxi organic-rich shale can be divided into two categories: estuarine shale in Unit 1 and lagoon shale in Units 2–4. The average TOC value of estuarine shale is significantly higher than that of lagoon shale, reaching 5.55%. Estuarine shale is mainly deposited in an suboxic-anoxic bottom water environments, with high surface seawater productivity, which is conducive to the formation and preservation of a large amount of organic matter. Lagoon shale is mainly composed of Type II2 and III kerogen, with a weakly oxic bottom water environment and low water surface paleo-productivity. The organic matter mainly comes from terrigenous plant debris, and its high sedimentation rate can effectively accumulate and preserve it. The chemical weathering indicators of Shanxi transitional shale are controlled by sedimentary recycling, hydrodynamic sorting, and diagenetic alteration, and the influence of changes in the source area is relatively small. The Shanxi transitional shale is mainly deposited on the active continental margin under collision background, and its source is mainly granodiorite from the Qinling orogenic belt.
Research on damage and degradation of coal-bearing sandstone under freeze-thaw cycles
Authors: Mao Yiwen , Li Ming , Wu Peng , Guo Shuai , Zhu Fuqiang
Published: January 2025

Comprehending the effect of freeze-thaw cycles on the damage and degradation of coal-bearing sandstones is crucial for the end-wall slope stability of open-pit mines in cold areas. In this study, freeze-thaw cycle tests on water-saturated coal-bearing sandstone samples under different freezing temperatures and different freeze-thaw cycles were conducted by a fully automatic low-temperature freeze-thaw testing system, and the effects of freeze-thaw cycle parameters on P-wave velocity and porosity of sandstone samples were obtained. With the assistance of CT scanning imaging technology, the microscopic damage and deterioration mechanism of sandstone samples under freeze-thaw cycles was further revealed, and a characterization method for the damage and deterioration of sandstone samples under freeze-thaw cycles was established, and damage and degradation effects of freeze-thaw cycles on the sandstone samples were predicted. The research results suggest that as the freezing temperature decreases and the number of freeze-thaw cycles increases, the P-wave velocity of the sandstone sample decreases, while the volume of the sandstone sample increases. The relative change rate of P-wave velocity and porosity increment of the sample are positively correlated with freezing temperature, and negatively correlated with the number of freeze-thaw cycles. The CT scan results show that with the decrease of the freezing temperature and the increase of the number of freeze-thaw cycles, the number and geometric size of pores on the sample cross section increase significantly. Additionally, the evolution equation of freeze-thaw damage factors was established with freezing temperature and number of freeze-thaw cycles as parameters, and the internal mechanism and physical characterization of freeze-thaw damage degradation of coal measure sandstone were revealed. This research provides a reference for the safety and stability evaluation and technology research and development of related rock engineering in cold areas.
Teachers’ perceptions of their self-regulated learning practices in elementary school classrooms
Authors: Greenquist-Marlett Stephanie , Bol Linda , Hill Courtney
Published: January 2025

Self-regulated learning (SRL) is associated with adaptable, critical, lifelong thinking skills. Teachers are essential to promoting SRL in learners, yet infrequently teach these learning strategies in classrooms. We addressed three research questions: (1) How do K–5 teachers implement SRL in their teaching?, (2) How is the use of SRL strategies linked to their self-efficacy or confidence in teaching?, and (3) How do teachers differ in their use of SRL depending on school type (public vs. private)? Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 12 primary in-service teachers, sampled equally from one public and one private school, to explore their SRL practices. They frequently utilized SRL in implicit ways. Further themes included setting goals based on student needs, monitoring student progress, and thereby adapting instruction. Teachers were largely confident about incorporating SRL into their instruction. Public school participants relied on time management and tracked student progress in more summative ways than their private school counterparts.
Enhancing professional abilities of university students through digital educational interventions: a study in Kazakhstani universities
Authors: Kurakbayeva Aigul , Xembayeva Saule
Published: January 2025

This study investigates enhancing professional abilities among university students in Kazakhstan through digital educational interventions. These abilities are increasingly crucial in a labor market shaped by rapid technological advancements. The research included 520 students from Toraighyrov University and L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University. The research employed a systematized methodology that involved a literature review of existing studies to identify key themes related to students’ professional abilities and rigorous testing and correlation analyses using SPSS software. The educational interventions consisted of interactive online classes, a 12-week MOOC in “Psychology,” and a 16-week course on managing learning processes using distance education technologies. The interventions significantly improved students’ performance on cognitive ability tests, enhanced creativity-related task outcomes, increased motivation, and strengthened professional orientation. These gains are supported by paired t-tests and align with theoretical frameworks such as Cattell’s theory and Self-Determination Theory. This study underscores the effectiveness of digital tools and interactive platforms in developing cognitive and non-cognitive skills, which aligns with contemporary educational reforms and studies in Kazakhstan.
The sound of science: a sonification learning experience in an Italian secondary school
Authors: Eramo Giacomo , Pastore Serafina , De Tullio Mario , Rossini Valeria , Monno Alessandro , Mesto Ernesto
Published: January 2025

Introduction

The present article reports on a case study aimed at improving STEAM education in secondary schools. It discusses the use of sonification as a teaching strategy to integrate music into science learning, using different approaches from data audification to parameter mapping into aural models and to the rewriting of song lyrics based on STEM topics.

Methods

A qualitative research study has been performed in a secondary school in the school district of Bari (South of Italy). More specifically, students’ and experts’ perceptions of experienced sonification activities have been collected through six rounds of focus group interviews.

Results

While there was a good improvement in student achievement in science, it is worth noting how musical activities also led to some benefits for students involved in the sonification workshops. The integration of music with STEM disciplines has promoted more cooperation and empathy among the students. Additionally, musical inputs can help students discover and regain interest in music. However, the study also highlighted the differences in teacher training and content knowledge, suggesting the need for future research to consider broader samples and experimental designs.

Discussion

Results and implications for educational research and practice are discussed considering the recent literature on STEAM. Finally, this study demonstrates the importance of a robust instructional design for sonification activities, so that they can be more effective, aligned with the school curriculum, and integrated into the classroom teaching-learning process.
A real-world analysis of 1,823 hospitalized osteoporotic fractures in Northeast China
Authors: Meng Qi , Wang Xinwei , Gao Yuzhong , Leslie William D. , Lix Lisa M. , Shi Xianbao , Kan Bo , Yang Shuman
Published: January 2025

Context

There are limited real-world data evidence assessing the clinical characteristics of hospitalized osteoporotic fractures in China.

Objective

To investigate the clinical characteristics of hospitalized major osteoporotic fractures in Northeast China.

Methods

We identified hospitalized fracture patients aged 50 and over from the First Affiliated Hospital of Jinzhou Medical University between January 1, 2018, and December 31, 2022. Major osteoporotic fractures including hip, vertebral, forearm and wrist, and humerus were diagnosed based on x-ray reports extracted from the electronic medical records (EMR). The cause of fracture, comorbidities, surgical methods, and anti-osteoporotic medications (AM) use were extracted from EMR.

Results

The study population included 1823 fracture patients, 510 males and 1313 females. Over half of fracture patients were aged over 70 years. Hip fractures accounted for 68.4% of all fractures in males and 57.9% in females. For those with hip fractures, the most common sites were the femoral neck (62.9%) and intertrochanteric (35.3%). Most fractures were due to falls (81.0% in males and 80.2% in females). The two most common comorbidities for males and females were hyperlipemia (45.9% vs. 47.1%) and hypertension (38.2% vs. 41.6%). Only 4.7% males and 8.6% females were treated with AM.

Conclusions

Hip fractures, especially femoral neck fractures, accounted for the majority of osteoporotic fractures in a tertiary public hospital in Northeast China. Common comorbidities in these fracture patients were hyperlipemia and hypertension. There was a very low rate of AM use among these patients.
Potential ecological effects of wind farm location on the example of the Małopolska region in Poland
Authors: Blazy Rafał , Łabuz Rita
Published: January 2025

Environmental challenges, such as climate change and resource depletion, are driving the search for alternative energy sources like wind energy. This study explores the ecological effects of installing wind turbines in Małopolska, Poland. The goals are to find suitable wind power locations, analyse the impact of distance-to-building criteria, and assess carbon emission reduction. The study was carried out in two stages: identification of possible sites for wind farms, taking into account the two criteria of distance from residential buildings of 700 m and 500 m, and estimation of potential carbon emission reductions. Results show optimal locations in north and south of Małopolska. Reducing the distance criteria doubles suitable areas, potentially decreasing Poland’s annual carbon emissions by 0.44%–1.03% and generating up to 1.49 TWh of wind energy, comparable to combined heat and power (CHP) plants in the region.
Evaluating the impact of tilt angles and tracking mechanisms on photovoltaic modules in Ethiopia
Authors: Gedifew Assaye , Benor Amare
Published: January 2025

This study investigated the influence of site location, tilt angle, and solar orientation on Ethiopia’s photovoltaic (PV) module performance. We determined optimal tilt angles for different time scales and locations across the country by analyzing global horizontal radiation data and employing various decomposition and transposition models. Results showed that optimal tilt angles increase with latitude, ranging from 0° to 47.9° monthly and from 14.1° to 21.5° annually. Seasonal optimal tilt angles were found to be 29.2°, 21.65°, 12.34°, and 8.8° for winter, autumn, spring, and summer, respectively. Additionally, the study compared the performance of PV modules with different tracking mechanisms. Dual/full-axis tracking yielded the highest energy gain (44.89%), while NS tracking resulted in a significant loss (28.46%). This research provides valuable insights for optimizing Ethiopia’s PV system design and installation, aiding in accurate energy assessment and forecasting.
Dual H-bridge integrated multiport DC circuit breaker for bus fault interruption in HVDC grids supporting large-scale renewable energy integration
Authors: Qin Hui , Pan Zhen , Lu Yuxin , Zou Changyue , Qiao Xuebo , Huang Yunfeng
Published: January 2025

To address the technical challenge of rapid and reliable interruption of DC faults in offshore wind power DC collection and transmission systems, which are critical for large-scale renewable energy integration, this paper proposes an integrated multi-port DC circuit breaker (DCCB) with bus fault clearing capability based on a dual H-bridge configuration. By extending a pair of bridge arms in the H-bridge to connect to the DC bus and employing diodes in the load commutation switches (LCSs) to form the second H-bridge, the proposed DCCB not only achieves conventional line fault clearing but also has the ability to interrupt bus faults. A five-terminal offshore wind power DC transmission system simulation model was built in PSCAD/EMTDC to verify the performance of the DCCB under various operating conditions. The results demonstrate that the proposed multi-port DCCB can protect multiple DC lines effectively under different conditions.
Spatial-temporal pattern and driving mechanism of urban land use eco-efficiency in mountainous counties based on multi-source data: a case study of Zhejiang province, China
Authors: Fan Li , Ma Lindong , Huang Zhongwei
Published: January 2025

Improving urban land use eco-efficiency (ULUEE) is of great significance for promoting high-quality economic development and promoting the modernization of harmonious coexistence between humans and nature. In this study, the super efficiency SBM model with undesirable output was used to measure the level of ULUEE at the county scale in Zhejiang province from 2006 to 2022. Based on this, the spatial-temporal evolution and spatial agglomeration characteristics were analyzed by using spatial analysis techniques, kernel density analysis, and spatial autocorrelation model. Finally, the driving mechanisms were revealed by using the geographical detector model and GWR model. The results were as follows: (1) From 2006 to 2022, the ULUEE of Zhejiang province rose from 0.34 to 0.73, with an average annual growth rate of 2.44%. The degree of efficiency differences between counties gradually converged. (2) The ULUEE at the county level exhibited a significant spatial positive correlation, with Moran’s I index increasing from 0.3219 to 0.3715. On the local scale, the cold spot significant area was mainly distributed in the north and south of Zhejiang province, and significant spatial and temporal variations were observed within the hot spot significant area. (3) The results of factor detection showed that altitude (X1), topographic relief (X2), and forest cover (X3) always played a strong role in affecting ULUEE. Among the socioeconomic factors, foreign trade (X8) had the strongest explanatory power in the early period, and GDP per capita (X5) and industrial structure (X6) played the strongest role in the later period. The explanatory power of all influencing factors decreased over time. (4) At the local scale, GDP per capita (X5), industrial structure (X6), and fiscal expenditure scale (X7) presented positive effects on ULUEE, and development vitality (X9) presented a negative effect. Future endeavors should encompass a multifaceted approach, which includes the facilitation of industrial modernization and the enhancement of external economic engagement. Concurrently, it is imperative to capitalize on the region’s inherent economic strengths and to foster a low-carbon, environmentally sustainable economic model.
Incorporating stand parameters in nonlinear height-diameter mixed-effects model for uneven-aged Larix gmelinii forests
Authors: Ismail Muhammad Junaid , Poudel Tika Ram , Ali Akber , Dong Lingbo
Published: January 2025

Tree attributes, such as height (H) and diameter at breast height (D), are essential for predicting forest growth, evaluating stand characteristics and developing yield models for sustainable forest management. Measuring tree H is particularly challenging in uneven-aged forests compared to D. To overcome these difficulties, the development of updated and reliable H-D models is crucial. This study aimed to develop robust H-D models for Larix gmelinii forest by incorporating stand variables. The dataset consisted of 7,069 Larix gmelinii trees sampled from 96 plots at Northeast China, encompassing a wide range of stand densities, age classes, and site conditions. Fifteen widely recognized nonlinear functions were assessed to model the H-D relationship effectively. Model performance was assessed using root mean square error (RMSE), mean absolute error (MAE), and the coefficient of determination (R2). Results identified the Ratkowsky model (M8) as the best performer, achieving the highest R2 (0.74), the lowest RMSE (16.47%) and MAE (12.50%), at statistically significant regression coefficients (p < 0.05). Furthermore, M8 was modified into 5 generalized models (GMs) by adding stand-variables (i.e., mean height, mean diameter and volume and their combination), the results indicate that GM2 was the best model achieving R2 of 0.82% and RMSE of 13.7%. We employed generalized nonlinear mixed-effects modeling approach with both fixed and random effects to account for variations at the individual plot level, enhancing the predictive accuracy. The model explained 71% of variability with significant trends in the residuals. The model was calibrated using response calibration method, through EBLUP theory. Our findings suggest that incorporating stand-level variables representing plot-specific characteristics can further improve the fit of mixed- effects models. These advancements provide forest authorities with enhanced tools for supporting sustainable forest management.
Facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy type 1 combined with becker muscular dystrophy: a family case report
Authors: Tan Menglin , Huo Huiyi , Feng Jieming , Wang Chandi , Jiang Suhua
Published: January 2025

Facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy type 1 (FSHD1) and Becker muscular dystrophy (BMD) are distinct disorders caused by different genetic variations and exhibiting different inheritance patterns. The co-occurrence of both conditions within the same family is rare. In this case report, the proband was a 10 year-old boy who presented with eye and mouth orbicular muscles, shoulder and proximal upper and lower limbs weakness. Genetic testing showed that the number of D4Z4 repeat units in the sub-terminal region 4qA of chromosome 4q35 in the proband was only 4 (normal value ≥ 11) and, at the same time, a heterozygous deletion was found in exons 13–29 of DMD gene in the proband, thus the diagnosis was clinically and genetically compatible with both FSHD1 and BMD. Pedigree investigation revealed that his maternal grandmother, mother, aunt and cousin also had muscle weakness in the face, shoulders and limbs. Genetic testing confirmed that each of the four relatives had four D4Z4 repeats in the 4qA region, and all of them carried a heterozygous deletion in exons 13–29 of DMD. Based on the X-linked features of DMD/BMD, the maternal grandmother, mother, and aunt were diagnosed with FSHD1 combined with DMD deletion carriers, and the male cousin was diagnosed with FSHD1 combined with BMD. This study identifies a family with a co-occurrence of clinically overt FSHD1 and BMD, which has important reference value for the diagnosis and treatment of hereditary myopathies.