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Formative assessment has been long emphasised as a powerful means for enhancing science learning. However, there is still a lack of research to investigate the impacts of formative assessment on both students' motivational beliefs and behaviours in science learning. This study examined such impacts using data from six Western and six East Asian countries/economies in PISA 2015. 96,491 15-year-old students were included. The SEM analysis of overall data showed that (i) formative assessment had both direct effects on students' science learning behaviours and indirect impacts mediated by students' motivational beliefs and (ii) the total effect of teacher feedback on science learning behaviours was greater than adaptive instruction. The comparison between Western and East Asian datasets indicated that (i) the impact of teacher feedback on East Asian students' motivational beliefs was greater than that on their Western counterparts; (ii) the impact of adaptive instruction on Western students' motivational beliefs was greater than that on East Asian counterparts; and (iii) the direct impacts of teacher feedback and adaptive instruction on science learning behaviours were similar for both groups of students. Suggestions were made on how to effectively implement formative assessment to enhance science learning in different cultural contexts.

Sulforaphane has been reported to possibly improve core symptoms associated with autism spectrum disorders from mostly small size studies. Here we present results of a larger randomized clinical trial (N = 108) in China. There were no significant changes in caregiver rated scales between sulforaphane and placebo groups. However, clinician rated scales showed a significant improvement in the sulforaphane group, and one third of participants showed at least a 30% decrease in score by 12 weeks treatment. The effects of sulforaphane were seen across the full range of intelligence and greater in participants over 10 years. Sulforaphane was safe and well-tolerated even for young children. The inconsistent results between caregiver and clinician rated scales suggest more clinical trials are needed to confirm our findings.

Writing has been recognized as a core competency for postgraduate students. However, improving writing performance, particularly for first-year postgraduate students, remains an important and challenging task. This study aimed to explore the effects of student engagement in peer feedback on writing performance from cognitive, affective and behavioral perspectives. Specifically, the participants were 88 postgraduate students. With the support of an online writing and peer review system (Peerceptiv), participants were asked to write an essay, engage in the peer feedback process, and revise their essays. Correlation analysis and multiple regression analysis were utilized to analyze data on the quality of participants' essays, peer feedback procedures, and interviews. Results showed that cognitive engagement, affective engagement, and behavioral engagement were significantly associated with postgraduate students' writing performance. The analysis indicated that the helpfulness of provided comments was the strongest predictor of writing performance, followed by suggestion, integration, and positive affective engagement. These findings highlight the significance of student engagement in peer feedback to improve writing performance in higher education. Recommendations for future research on quality improvement in writing performance are suggested based on the findings.

China is a country with traditional family education. Parents greatly influence their children, especially under the one-child policy and urbanization background. Chinese teaching requires context and training. Reading and communication are important ways to improve Chinese. Parent-child reading can better help students in grades 1-3 to read. This article aims to compare students' performance and interview results of parents in an elementary school in the immigrant city, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China, to explore the supporting role of parents in this family education. Previously, similar language research work has examined the students' language development in Shenzhen Pontus' families for further research. This study used mixed methods to analyze the parent-child reading situation in a school in Shenzhen. This article also compared the students' Chinese performance to judge the impact of parent-child reading on students. The results show that the influence of parent-child reading in family education has an obvious positive effect. The specific auxiliary role is reflected in children's reading ability, Mandarin level, and literary knowledge. Therefore, this study suggests that teachers and parents promote parent-child reading work. Parent-child reading is not only conducive to the psychological growth of students but also conducive to the cultivation of students' language ability, especially for the cultivation of students' Mandarin and literary ability.

We retrieved data from China Education Panel Survey (CEPS) and adopted the hierarchical linear model as well as the quantile regression method to examine the effect of education groups on the quality of urban and rural compulsory education. Student cognitive ability was cited as the evaluation index of education quality. According to the research findings, the overall effect of education groups on the quality of compulsory education is significantly positive, but there is urban-rural heterogeneity in this effect: the positive impact occurs only to urban member schools, while the education quality of rural member schools has not been improved by school grouping. In addition, there exists individual difference in this effect; school grouping significantly and negatively affects students from rural member schools and with medium and lower cognitive ability.

Autism spectrum disorder has gained international attention due to its prevalence and the extent to which it can affect families. As a disorder without quantifiable treatment effects, it is easily overlooked in the battle for resources. Estimating family economic burdens and the specific factors that may be associated with them could help in the identification of resources and the promotion of social justice. We examined the family costs from a national family survey with Children with autism spectrum disorder aged 2-6 years (N = 3236). A three-tiered model to quantify the costs was used. The families' average annual direct cost per child was $24,869.0, including direct medical cost (inpatient, outpatient, drugs, etc.) of $6009.2 and direct nonmedical cost (rehabilitation or educational, rental, transportation, care, and others) of $18,859.8. The annual indirect costs (productivity loss from resignation and job adjustment) for families were $13,990.7. The total costs were $34,206.5. The results of the regression revealed that the mothers' educational level was significantly associated with costs. Families with an interprovincial immigration background, a higher-than-average income, or children with more severe autism spectrum disorder had a greater possibility of higher direct, indirect, and overall costs. Autism spectrum disorder imposed a significant financial burden on the families of children with autism spectrum disorder.

Academic leadership is considered a key factor in university and research institute development. In a competitive environment, the role of academic leadership has become increasingly important. At present, China is committed to building world-class universities and advanced research institutes, while academic leadership is one of the key factors. Thus, what is the ideal academic leadership in China's institutional environment? What professional qualities should principal investigators have? This study investigates these issues with in-depth interviews of six principal investigators. The finding shows that the definition of academic leadership by principal investigators refers to academic expertise, assigning the team member, setting a direction, academic social skills, managing team member relationships, boosting team morale, and teamwork skills. Furthermore, academic expertise is often supposed to be more important than other abilities. In terms of competence, the definitions of leadership by Chinese principal investigators and the literature on Western academic leadership are similar.

The improvement of teacher leadership is the key to promote the quality of kindergarten education. As a kind of teacher leadership, authentic leadership is related to the teacher's personality traits. This paper collects data on the authentic leadership and personality of 157 teachers in three private kindergartens in Kunming, Yunnan Province of China, and validates the research hypothesis that teacher personality can affect teachers' authentic leadership through SPSS analysis. Based on the descriptive analysis and linear regression analysis, it can be seen that the authentic leadership of private kindergarten teachers in Yunnan Province needs to be further improved, and personality as an inseparable part of predicting leadership needs to be re-emphasized. Results also indicate that when testing personality traits, future researchers must use complete questionnaires instead of short questionnaires.

This study aimed to investigate the heterogeneity of creativity and the role of interpersonal relationships for creativity subgroups among primary school students. We used latent profile analysis to identify subgroups of creativity among pupils. We then used logistic regression analysis to investigate the role of teacher-student and peer relationships in these subgroups. A total of 1,047 primary school students (M[subscript age] = 10.97, SD = 0.91; 47.80% girls) completed the Chinese version of the Torrance Test of Creative Thinking Figural Form A, the Teacher-Student Relationship Scale, and peer nominations. First, the results revealed five creativity profiles for pupils in primary school: high-creativity individuals, innovators, medium-creativity individuals, adaptors, and low-creativity individuals. Heterogeneity across the five subgroups was reflected in the differing creativity levels and differences in creativity dimensions. Second, students who had better teacher-student relationships were more likely to be high-creativity individuals and innovators than low-creativity individuals. In addition, students who had higher perceived popularity tended to be high-creativity individuals, innovators, adaptors, and medium-creativity individuals than low-creativity individuals. The results of this study provide a theoretical basis and empirical support for the targeted cultivation of creativity in primary schools.

Research Findings: This study investigated children's feelings about school and their adaptation to primary school after leaving kindergarten. Altogether, 28,334 Chinese children (ages 6-8 years) were sampled and surveyed online. The descriptive statistic, latent class analysis (LCA) approach, and logistic regression analysis indicated that: (1) children generally had positive feelings toward school, especially about teacher-student relationships. However, the self-perception of academic abilities was less positive; (2) children's social adaptation had the highest scores, followed by life and physical adaptation, and then academic adaptation; (3) there were significant differences between children from only child and non-only child families both in school feelings and adaptation; (4) three latent classes of children's school adaptation emerged: the Well-Adapted Children were girls, only children in eastern China; the Moderately-Adapted Children were boys, non-only children in central China; the Poorly-Adapted Children were boys, non-only children in western China; and (5) children's school feelings significantly predicted their class membership for adaptation. Practice or Policy: These findings suggest that we need to focus more on children's feelings and academic school adjustment issues. Targeted support is needed for children at risk of school adaptation to help them transition smoothly to primary school.

Even though the importance of technical and vocational education is acknowledged in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) adopted by the United Nations in 2015, the university sector has dominated the discourse on the role of postsecondary educational institutions in sustainability. This comparative study widens the scope by highlighting contributions that community colleges (CCs) and technical and vocational education and training institutions (TVETs) are making to sustainability in several developed and fast-developing countries. It examines five independent case studies -- conducted in Canada, Chile, China, Taiwan, and the United States -- and demonstrates that CCs and TVETs are uniquely positioned to make substantial contributions and should be an important part of the sustainability discussion. It also explores special features that allow these institutions to play a vital role in addressing the SDGs. The findings show that the SDGs related to economic development and social justice were a priority in all five case studies, while the environmental SDGs were foremost in the two North American studies. The main barriers to sustainable development include the high cost of education, low completion rates, graduates' inability to secure employment commensurate with their education, inadequate funding and the reputation of CCs and TVETs as second-tier institutions.

Using the first wave data from the Beijing College Students Panel Survey, this study provides an alternative explanation of the effect of social status on access to elite universities in China. We modify and extend the interacting multiple capitals model to identify the interactive effects of cultural, social, and economic capital and the educational transition from high school on access to elite universities. The results of mediation analysis show that social capital and studying in quality high schools function as important mechanisms for elite university entry. These findings underline the important role of social capital and the cumulative advantages of high school in the reproduction of inequality.

Authorities in China have been actively involved in the high-quality development of libraries, with an emphasis on supporting and extending National Reading. Providing appropriate and successful reading services requires well-prepared reading service librarians, empowered to design and deliver services that make reading enjoyable and accessible for all. Based on competency theory and empowerment theory, this study analyses the competency features of empowered reading service librarians and constructs a competency model based on those features. Through literature analysis and Behavioural Event Interview, a preliminary competency model comprising 16 discriminative competencies and 20 benchmark competencies was constructed, subsequently refined through 4 rounds of expert consultation using the Delphi method and resulting in a model with 11 discriminative competency features and 6 benchmark competency features. A questionnaire survey of reading service librarians and library users was undertaken to extract common factors and develop an iceberg model. The iceberg model comprises 4 dimensions: knowledge, skills, self-concept, and motivation, with 11 discriminative competency traits and 6 benchmark competency traits. The model extends our understanding of the important competencies underpinning the work of reading service librarians and can support developments in their professional education, performance evaluation, recruitment, and selection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accumulating animal studies have demonstrated associations between ambient air pollution (AP) and metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD), but relevant epidemiological evidence is limited. We evaluated the association of long-term exposure to AP with the risk of incident MAFLD in Northwest China. The average AP concentration between baseline and follow-up was used to assess individual exposure levels. Cox proportional hazard models and restricted cubic spline functions (RCS) were used to estimate the association of PM2.5 and its constituents with the risk of MAFLD and the dose–response relationship. Quantile g-computation was used to assess the joint effects of mixed exposure to air pollutants on MAFLD and the weights of the various pollutants. We observed 1516 cases of new-onset MAFLD, with an incidence of 10.89%. Increased exposure to pollutants was significantly associated with increased odds of MAFLD, with hazard ratios (HRs) of 2.93 (95% CI: 1.22, 7.00), 2.86 (1.44, 5.66), 7.55 (3.39, 16.84), 4.83 (1.89, 12.38), 3.35 (1.35, 8.34), 1.89 (1.02, 1.62) for each interquartile range increase in PM2.5, SO42−, NO3−, NH4+, OM, and BC, respectively. Stratified analyses suggested that females, frequent exercisers and never-drinkers were more susceptible to MAFLD associated with ambient PM2.5 and its constituents. Mixed exposure to SO42−, NO3−, NH4+, OM and BC was associated with an increased risk of MAFLD, and the weight of BC had the strongest effect on MAFLD. Exposure to ambient PM2.5 and its constituents increased the risk of MAFLD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Air pollution exposure is closely linked to population age and socioeconomic status. Population aging and imbalance in regional economy are thus anticipated to have important implications on ozone (O3)‐related health impacts. Here we provide a driver analysis for O3 mortality burden due to respiratory disease in China over 2013–2050 driven by population aging and regional inequity. Unexpectedly, we find that population aging is estimated to result in dramatic rises in annual O3 mortality burden in China; by 56, 101–137, and 298–485 thousand over the periods 2013–2020, 2020–2030, and 2030–2050, respectively. This reflects the exponential rise in baseline mortality rates with increasing age. The aging‐induced mortality burden rise in 2030–2050 is surprisingly large, as it is comparable to the net national mortality burden due to O3 exposure in 2030 (359–399 thousand yr−1). The health impacts of O3 pollution, shown as mortality burden per capita, are inequitably distributed, with more severe effects in less developed provinces than their developed counterparts by 23.1% and 21.5% in 2019 and 2030, respectively. However, the regional inequity in O3 mortality burden is expected to be mitigated in 2050. This temporal variation reflects evolving demographic dividend characterized by a larger proportion of younger individuals in developed regions. These findings are critical for targeted improvement of healthcare services to ensure the sustainability of social development. Plain Language Summary: Air pollution exposure is closely linked to the age distribution and socioeconomic status of the population. The ongoing process of population aging and the pronounced disparities in regional economic growth across China are thus anticipated to have substantial implications for the health effects stemming from ozone (O3) exposure. Our finding reveals that population aging is projected to lead to a significant upsurge in annual O3 mortality burden; the health impacts of O3 pollution, measured in terms of mortality burden per capita, exhibit significant disparities, with more severe effects in less developed provinces than their developed counterparts. These results hold critical implications for the targeted improvement of healthcare services, ensuring the sustainable development of society in China over the coming decades. Key Points: Ozone‐related mortality burden are increasing in the future except for the SSP1 scenarioThe mortality burden increases were mainly driven by the population aging in ChinaThe O3 mortality burden per capita, are inequitably distributed, with more severe effects in developed regions [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Adzuki bean (Vigna angularis) is an important legume crop cultivated in over 30 countries worldwide. We developed a high‐quality chromosome‐level reference genome of adzuki bean cultivar Jingnong6 by combining PacBio Sequel long‐read sequencing with short‐read and Hi‐C technologies. The assembled genome covers 97.8% of the adzuki bean genome with a contig N50 of approximately 16 Mb and a total of 32 738 protein‐coding genes. We also generated a comprehensive genome variation map of adzuki bean by whole‐genome resequencing (WGRS) of 322 diverse adzuki beans accessions including both wild and cultivated. Furthermore, we have conducted comparative genomics and a genome‐wide association study (GWAS) on key agricultural traits to investigate the evolution and domestication. GWAS identified several candidate genes, including VaCycA3;1, VaHB15, VaANR1 and VaBm, that exhibited significant associations with domestication traits. Furthermore, we conducted functional analyses on the roles of VaANR1 and VaBm in regulating seed coat colour. We provided evidence for the highest genetic diversity of wild adzuki (Vigna angularis var. nipponensis) in China with the presence of the most original wild adzuki bean, and the occurrence of domestication process facilitating transition from wild to cultigen. The present study elucidates the genetic basis of adzuki bean domestication traits and provides crucial genomic resources to support future breeding efforts in adzuki bean. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fritillaria unibracteata (FRU) belongs to the genus Fritillaria of the Liliaceae family. It is one of the original plants of the Chinese medicinal material "Chuanbeimu" and also a biological resource featured in the Tibetan Plateau of China. The dried bulbs of FRU are used in traditional Chinese medicine. The chemical constituents of FRU that have been isolated and identified include alkaloids, sterols, organic acids and their esters, nucleosides and volatile oils. FRU has antitussive, expectorant, anti-asthmatic, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, acute lung injury-reducing, antifibrosis, antitumor, and other pharmacological effects. This valuable plant has an extremely high market demand, and over the years, due to over-exploitation, FRU has now been listed as a key species that is endangered and scarcely cultivated in China as a traditional Chinese medicinal herb. However, research on FRU is rare, and its effective components, resource control, and mechanisms of action need further study. This review systematically discusses the herbal characteristics, resource distribution, chemical composition, biosynthesis, pharmacological effects, clinical application, and breeding techniques of FRU, hoping to provide a reference for further research and the use of FRU. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: This study characterized Vibrio alginolyticus isolated from seafood and freshwater products in China (2020). Methods and Results: In total, 122 (95.31%) V. alginolyticus isolates were resistant to at least 1 antibiotic category, and 2 (1.56%) isolates were resistant to at least 3 antibiotic categories and belong to multi-drug resistance (MDR) isolates. A high prevalence rate was observed to be blaCARB (98.04%) encoding beta-lactam resistance, followed by tet (97.06%) encoding tetracycline resistance and fos (4.90%) encoding resistance to fosfomycin. Among the 57 V. alginolyticus isolates, the commonest virulence genes were type III secretion system translocated gene vopD, vopB, and vcrH (54.4%, 31/57), type III secretion system regulated gene tyeA (54.39%), followed by vscI and vscF (50.88%) encoded type III secretion system inner rod protein and needle protein, respectively. Multilocus sequence typing (MLST) showed considerable genetic diversity, with 34 distinct sequence types (STs) identified among 55 isolates. ST421 (n = 5), ST166 (n = 4), ST523 (n = 3), ST516 (n = 3), and ST507 (n = 3) were dominant STs among 55 V. alginolyticus isolates. Discussion: These findings highlight the widespread occurrence of V. alginolyticus in both freshwater and seafood products, underscoring the critical need for vigilant monitoring of these bacteria. Such measures are essential for ensuring effective food safety management and safeguarding public health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Invertebrates can store carbon (C), nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and other elements in their body tissues at theoretically homeostatic rates, thus playing an important role in the biogeochemical cycle of aquatic ecosystems. To sustain homeostasis, consumers must either balance their resource supply or adjust their stoichiometric features in response to environmental changes. However, there is limited understanding regarding potential differences in the ecological stoichiometric characteristics of marine invertebrates. To explore the ecological stoichiometric characteristics of marine invertebrates, the C, N, P, calcium (Ca), d13C, and d15N contents of 18 invertebrate species were analyzed from the Beibu Gulf. The results revealed that the ranges of elemental variations (C, N, and P) in invertebrates were 25.17%-47.34%, 6.14%-14.13%, and 0.26%- 1.31%, respectively. The content of P in invertebrates exhibited the most significant variation, leading to alterations in C:P and N:P ratios. A significant negative correlation was observed between P content and body weight in invertebrates (p < 0.01). Furthermore, the C and N content of invertebrates were significantly negatively correlated with d13C (p < 0.01), suggesting that the variations in C content and N content in invertebrates are influenced by different food sources, while P content varies according to body size. Our results also indicated significant interspecific differences in the ecological stoichiometry of invertebrates from the Beibu Gulf (p < 0.05). Invertebrate growth may be inhibited by P, and they do not maintain strict homeostasis, with stable homeostasis observed in higher trophic levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In mid-June to July 2023, North China witnessed extreme heatwaves, marked by intense near-surface warming with an advanced seasonal cycle of local air temperature. An unconventional upper-tropospheric cold vortex in early June, deviating from conventional "heat dome" patterns, preceded the heatwave extremes. The zonal SSTA gradient in Indo-Pacific warm pool initially suppressed Indian summer monsoon convection, which stimulated the cold vortex around North China via a tropical-extratropical teleconnection. This anomaly intensified the air-land thermal contrast, leading to increased sensible heating and reduced soil moisture in situ. The drier soil conditions maintained and further augmented sensible heating, escalating surface air temperature, and culminating in extraordinary heatwaves. The air column was then destabilized to mitigate the upper-level cold vortex. Historical records corroborate the extremity of the air-sea interactions in 2023. The ECMWF real-time subseasonal-to-seasonal (S2S) forecasts successfully capture the air-land feedback in both cold vortex and heatwave stages, albeit with an underestimation of heatwave intensity due to biases in soil moisture anomalies. Consequently, the initial cold vortex condition and air-land-sea interactions yield S2S predictability to the historic 2023 heatwaves in North China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Remote sensing has become an effective way for regional soil organic matter (SOM) quantitative analysis. Topographic factors affect SOM content and distribution, also influence the accuracy of SOM remote sensing inversion. In large region with complex topographic conditions, characteristic topographic factors of SOM in different topographic regions are unknown, and the effect of combining characteristic topographic factors with spectral parameters on improving SOM inversion accuracy remains to be further studied. Three typical topographic regions of Shandong Province in China, namely Western plain region (WPR), Central and southern mountain region (CSMR), Eastern hilly region (EHR), were selected. Topographic factors, namely Elevation, Slope, Aspect and Relief Amplitude, were introduced. Respectively, the characteristic topographic factors and spectral parameters of SOM in each region were identified. The SOM inversion models were built separately for each region by integrating spectral parameters with topographic factors. The results revealed that as for the characteristic topographic factors of SOM, none was in the WPR, E, RA, and S were in the CSMR, E and RA were in the EHR. In combination with characteristic topographic factors, the accuracy of SOM spectral inversion models improved, the calibration R2 increased by 0.075-0.102, the RMSE (Root mean square error) decreased by 0.162-0.171 g/kg, the validation R² increased by 0.067-0.095, the RMSE decreased by 0.236-0.238 g/kg, and RPD (Relative prediction deviation) increased by 0.129-0.169. The most significant improvement was observed in the CSMR with the calibration R² of 0.725, the validation R2 of 0.713 and the RPD of 1.852, followed by the EHR. This study not only contributes to the advancement of soil quantitative remote sensing theory but also offers more precise data support for the development of green, low-carbon, and precision agriculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To present the process from acute Posner-Schlossman syndrome (PSS) relapse to remission under 2% ganciclovir (GCV), corticosteroids and anti-glaucoma agents on 323 patients. A retrospective study enrolling 323 PSS patients. Demographics and ophthalmic examination results were generated. Patients were treated with GCV, corticosteroids and anti-glaucoma agents andfollowed up every 2–6 weeks. Patients were divided into the GCV monotherapy (N = 65, 20.12%), GCV and corticosteroids (G+C, N = 106) and GCV, corticosteroid and IOP-lowering drugs (G+C+L, N = 152) group. The G+C+L group had the highest intraocular pressure (IOP, 26.33 ± 10.26 mmHg, P < 0.001) and largest cup-to-disc ratio (0.58 ± 0.19, P < 0.05). After treatment, IOP of three groups dropped to similar level. Ninety-nine (30.65%) patients were corticosteroid-dependent whose daily corticosteroid consumption decreased after using GCV (from 2.23 ± 1.02 to 0.97 ± 0.98 drops/day). 2% GCV solutions worked effectively on PSS relapse with corticosteroids and anti-glaucoma agents. In patients suspected of CMV infection, proper GCV could reduce the chance of corticosteroid dependence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Some healthy lifestyle components have been linked with sleep disordered breathing (SDB), yet little is known about the relationship between comprehensive lifestyle factors and SDB. This study aimed to examine the healthy lifestyle with SDB in community-dwelling adults. We conducted a cross-sectional analysis of the Suzhou Food Consumption and Health Survey in China between 2018 and 2020. The healthy lifestyle index (HLI) was created by combining smoking, alcohol drinking, diet, physical activity, and body mass index (BMI). Its association with SDB was assessed by multiple logistic regression analysis. Subgroup analysis and sensitivity analysis were conducted to assess the robustness of our results. The final analysis included 3788 participants (2859 without SDB and 929 with SDB). In multivariable-adjusted analyses, non-smoking (OR: 0.58, 95 % CI: 0.47–0.71), non-drinking (OR: 0.55, 95 % CI: 0.45–0.68), healthy diet (OR: 0.79, 95 % CI: 0.65–0.95), and healthy BMI (OR: 0.72, 95 % CI: 0.6–0.86) were associated with SDB. Compared with participants with HLI score of 0–1, participants with HLI score of 2, 3, 4, and 5 had OR of 0.68 (95 % CI: 0.51–0.91), 0.49 (95 % CI: 0.37–0.64), 0.29 (95 % CI: 0.21–0.38), and 0.22 (95 % CI: 0.15–0.33), respectively, after adjustment for confounding factors (P -trend<0.001). An inverse dose-response relationship between HLI and SDB was also observed. The association was similar in subgroups stratified by sex, marital status, diabetes and dyslipidemia. A higher score of HLI was associated with reduced odds of SDB in Chinese adults. Our findings suggest the potential of addressing five modifiable lifestyle factors for the prevention of SDB. • There was an inverse dose-response association between healthy lifestyle index (HLI) and sleep disordered breathing (SDB). • No smoking, no alcohol consumption, healthy diet, and healthy BMI were protective factors for SDB. • The inverse association between HLI and SDB was independent of multiple confounders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zhigancao decoction is a traditional prescription for treating irregular pulse and palpitations in China. As the monarch drug of Zhigancao decoction, the bioactive molecules of licorice against heart diseases remain elusive. We established the HRESIMS-guided method leading to the isolation of three novel bicyclic peptides, glycnsisitins A–C (1 – 3), with distinctive C–C and C–O–C side-chain-to-side-chain linkages from the roots of Glycyrrhiza uralensis (Licorice). Glycnsisitin A demonstrated stronger cardioprotective activity than glycnsisitins B and C in an in vitro model of doxorubicin (DOX)-induced cardiomyocyte injury. Glycnsisitin A treatment not only reduced the mortality of heart failure (HF) mice in a dose-dependent manner but also significantly attenuated DOX-induced cardiac dysfunction and myocardial fibrosis. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) of the differentially expressed genes indicated that the cardioprotective effect of glycnsisitin A was mainly attributed to its ability to maintain iron homeostasis in the myocardium. Mechanistically, glycnsisitin A interacted with transferrin and facilitated its binding to the transferrin receptor (TFRC), which caused increased uptake of iron in cardiomyocytes. These findings highlight the key role of bicyclic peptides as bioactive molecules of Zhigancao decoction for the treatment of HF, and glycnsisitin A constitutes a promising therapeutic agent for the treatment of HF. A novel bicyclic peptide derived from Glycyrrhiza uralensis preserves cardiac mitochondrial homeostasis by replenishing iron levels in cardiomyocytes. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• • At 19 − 34 °C, D. maculatus can complete the entire immature stage of development. • • The lower and upper developmental thresholds were 15.28 and 34.03 °C, respectively. • • The survival rate was the highest at 22 °C and the lowest at 34 °C. • • Body length, the widths of head capsule and pronotum were modeled over time. Necrophagous beetles are sometimes used to estimate the minimum postmortem interval (PMI min) in the decay and remains stages of a corpse. Among these, the Dermestidae is one of the most common groups used and therefore has important research and application value. In this study, the developmental events of Dermestes maculatus de Geer, 1774, were recorded at six constant temperatures, and isomorphen diagrams were established. The thermobiological parameters were estimated using linear and non-linear models, and morphological indicators such as larval body length were measured. The results showed that the developmental duration of the whole immature stage decreased from 66.13 ± 8.58 days at 19 °C to 21.9 ± 2.01 days at 34 °C. The survival rate of the immature stages, especially the egg stage, varies greatly with temperature, with the lowest survival observed at 34 °C and the highest at 22 °C. The lower developmental threshold, the intrinsic optimum temperature, and the upper lethal developmental threshold obtained by the curvilinear Optim SSI models were 15.28 °C, 28.36 °C, and 34.03 °C, respectively. The body length, head capsule width, and pronotum width showed obvious growth patterns with larval developmental duration, which were characterized by equations and isomegalen diagrams. This study provides important basic data for the application of D. maculatus to estimate the PMI min in forensic entomology in the Yangtze River Delta region of China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The relevance of this study is driven by the increasing dynamics of contracts concluded between the Republic of Kazakhstan and the People's Republic of China, as well as the lack of research on the comparison of contractual legal structures between the two countries and their criminological implications. The purpose of this study is to conduct a comparative analysis of the contract legislation of China and Kazakhstan, identify common and distinctive features, and explore the criminological impacts of these differences. The study reveals that the contract law of China and Kazakhstan share some similarities, such as the concept of a contract and the basic principles of contractual relations. The differences between the two countries' contract law and enforcement approaches highlight the importance of the legal environment in shaping the behaviour, risk assessment, and decision-making processes of parties involved in contractual relationships. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Total joint replacement is the optimal treatment option for patients with severe haemophilic arthritis. Current research emphasizes patient‐reported outcomes as a vital measure for evaluating surgical outcomes and patient satisfaction. Nevertheless, very limited information about the subjective experience of perioperative haemophiliacs in the literature, highlighting the need for exploration in this area. Aim: To investigate the psychological experiences and health demands of haemophilic arthropathy patients during the perioperative period of total joint replacement. Design: Qualitative descriptive research with semistructured individual interviews. Methods: From June to September 2023, nine patients with severe haemophilic arthropathy who underwent total joint replacement at a Haemophilia Diagnosis and Treatment Centre in China were interviewed for average 37 min per person. Data were analysed using the traditional content analysis method and reported following the consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative research. The study is reported according to the COREQ checklist. Results: Interviews described two main themes: (1) emotional decline which involves preoperative overoptimism, early postoperative anxiety and disease uncertainty during the early independent rehabilitation. (2) wellness aspiration which includes rehabilitation support and spiritual healing. Conclusion: This study reveals the patients' significant psychological changes and their well‐being aspiration, particularly out‐of‐hospital rehabilitation needs. Strengthening communication between multidisciplinary teams and patients, enhancing the involvement of nurses, broadening the scope of functions at primary Haemophilia Treatment Centres, and developing telerehabilitation, these concerted efforts may improve the overall treatment experience for patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The gut microbiome has been reported to be associated with nighttime light (NTL) exposure and temperament. However, the specific role of infant gut microbiome plays in NTL exposure and temperament is unclear. This study investigated the potential mediating role of infants' gut microbiome in correlations between NTL exposure and temperament. Demographic information, stool samples, and temperament scores were collected from 40 infants. Temperament was evaluated using the Infants Behavior Questionnaire-Revised (IBQ-R). The gut microbiota was analyzed using 16S rRNA sequencing. Cumulative and lagged effects of NTL exposure were calculated based on residential address (NTLpoint) and a concentric 1 km radius buffer zone around the address (NTL1000m), respectively. Mediation models were utilized for assessing the mediating effects of the gut microbiome. The gut microbiome of infants with higher fear scores was characterized by a higher abundance of Akkermansia and Clostridium_sensu_stricto_1 and a lower abundance of Bacteroides. Mediation models indicated Akkermansia played a full mediating role in associations between NTLpoint, NTL1000m and fear in specific time periods. Genus Akkermansia explained 24.46% and 33.50% of associations between fear and cumulative exposure to NTLpoint and NTL1000m, respectively. This study provides evidence for the mediating role of Akkermansia between NTL exposure and fear. However, further experimental is required to elucidate the mechanisms through which the gut microbiome mediates between NTL exposure and temperament in infants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Aims: Low educational attainment is a well-established risk factor for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in developed areas. However, the association between educational attainment and the risk of NAFLD is less clear in China. Methods: A cross-sectional study including over 200,000 Chinese adults across mainland China was conducted. Information on education level and lifestyle factors were obtained through standard questionnaires, while NAFLD and advanced fibrosis were diagnosed using validated formulas. Outcomes included the risk of NAFLD in the general population and high probability of fibrosis among patients with NAFLD. Logistic regression analysis was employed to estimate the risk of NAFLD and fibrosis across education levels. A causal mediation model was used to explore the potential mediators. Results: Comparing with those receiving primary school education, the multi-adjusted odds ratios (95% confidence intervals) for NAFLD were 1.28 (1.16 to 1.41) for men and 0.94 (0.89 to 0.99) for women with college education after accounting for body mass index. When considering waist circumference, the odds ratios (95% CIs) were 0.94 (0.86 to 1.04) for men and 0.88 (0.80 to 0.97) for women, respectively. The proportions mediated by general and central obesity were 51.00% and 68.04% for men, while for women the proportions were 48.58% and 32.58%, respectively. Furthermore, NAFLD patients with lower educational attainment showed an incremental increased risk of advanced fibrosis in both genders. Conclusions: In China, a low education level was associated with a higher risk of prevalent NAFLD in women, as well as high probability of fibrosis in both genders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study intends to investigate the determinants of learners' continuance intention to use massive open online courses (MOOCs) for personal or professional development. Design/methodology/approach: This study employed quantitative research design. The respondents were individual learners from six selected universities in China who used MOOCs for continuous learning. A purposive sampling technique was employed to obtain 270 valid samples. Data were analyzed and analytical outputs were produced using the techniques of Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling and Importance-Performance Matrix. Findings: Expectation confirmation was found to have a positive relationship with perceived usefulness, flow experience, learning self-efficacy and satisfaction with MOOCs. Perceived usefulness, flow experience and leaning self-efficacy were also found to have a positive relationship with MOOC satisfaction. In addition, perceived usefulness, flow experience, learning self-efficacy and MOOC satisfaction had a positive impact on continuance usage intention. Originality/value: The outcomes of the study can serve as a practical reference for MOOC providers and decision-makers to develop relevant strategies to increase the course completion rates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Responsive feeding serves as an important protective factor for infant growth and overall health development. This study based on self‐determination theory (SDT) aimed to assess the effects of a responsive breastfeeding (RBF) intervention programme on maternal breastfeeding and infant growth and development. A total of 110 mother–infant pairs were recruited and randomly divided into an intervention group (n = 55) and a control group (n = 55). The primary outcomes were breastfeeding motivation score, breastfeeding self‐efficacy (BSE) and exclusive breastfeeding rate; the secondary outcomes were infant physical development at 6 weeks and 3 months. A repeated measures ANOVA indicated that the intervention group had significantly higher Enjoyment scores compared to the control group at three time points: at discharge (MD: 5.28; 95% CI: 3.68 to 6.89; p < 0.001), 6 weeks post‐partum (MD: 5.06; 95% CI: 3.80 to 6.31; p < 0.001) and 3 months post‐partum (MD: 5.24; 95% CI: 4.12 to 6.35; p < 0.001). Similarly, the intervention group reported significantly higher connection and mother's self‐perception scores at discharge (MD: 4.31; 95% CI: 3.07 to 5.56; p < 0.001), 6 weeks post‐partum (MD: 4.69; 95% CI: 3.71 to 5.68; p < 0.001) and 3 months post‐partum (MD: 4.93; 95% CI: 4.14 to 5.72; p < 0.001), compared to the control group. In contrast, the pressure from significant others scores were higher in the control group relative to the intervention group at discharge (MD: −2.09; 95% CI: −2.88 to −1.31; p < 0.001), 6 weeks post‐partum (MD: −4.35; 95% CI: −5.20 to −3.49; p < 0.001) and 3 months (MD: −4.89; 95% CI: −5.70 to −4.08; p < 0.001). Finally, the intervention group also reported higher Instrumental Needs scores at all three time points: at discharge (MD: 1.96; 95% CI: 1.35 to 2.58; p < 0.001), 6 weeks post‐partum (MD: 3.58; 95% CI: 3.05 to 4.11; p < 0.001) and 3 months post‐partum (MD: 1.18; 95% CI: 0.68 to 1.69; p < 0.001). BSE scores were significantly higher in the intervention group compared to the control group at discharge (MD: 14.29; 95% CI: 10.38 to 18.21; p < 0.001), 6 weeks post‐partum (MD: 14.04; 95% CI: 11.05 to 17.02; p < 0.001) and 3 months post‐partum (MD: 6.80; 95% CI: 4.66 to 8.94; p < 0.001). The rates of exclusive breastfeeding were higher in the intervention group than in the control group at each stage of the intervention (p < 0.01). At 6 weeks post‐partum, the intervention group's infants showed slower weight (t = −0.90, p = 0.371) and length (t = −0.69, p = 0.495) growth compared to the control group, though not significantly. By 3 months post‐partum, there was a significant difference in both weight (t = −3.46, p = 0.001) and length (t = −2.95, p = 0.004) between the groups. The findings in this study suggest that the RBF intervention programme based on SDT may be effective in improving mothers' motivation to breastfeed, building breastfeeding self‐confidence and increasing the rate of exclusive breastfeeding. The effects of the intervention on infant physical development will need to be verified with longer follow‐up in future research. Key messages: This study validated the application of responsive breastfeeding (RBF) intervention during the exclusive breastfeeding phase of Chinese infants.The RBF intervention may help to increase mothers' level of autonomous motivation for breastfeeding, enhance breastfeeding self‐efficacy and increase exclusive breastfeedingrates. The intervention had no significant effect on the weight and length of 6 week old infants but significantly impacted 3monthold infants, with slower growth observed in the intervention group compared to the control group.Future intervention programmes shouldinclude extended follow‐up periods to investigate the long‐term effects of RBF on infant growth and development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article details the design, implementation, and evaluation of mindful agency coaching and motivational interviewing interventions to develop undergraduate students' positive learning dispositions. A quasi-experimental design was employed in the study involving three groups: one control group, one intervention group of mindful agency coaching only (MA group), and another intervention group of mindful agency coaching plus motivational interviewing (MA+MI group). The main findings show that compared with the control group, the two intervention groups achieved significant improvements in mindful agency, self-efficacy, and emotional intelligence. However, there was no significant difference between the two intervention groups in posttests. Moreover, participants' improvement in mindful agency fully mediated the postintervention increases in self-efficacy, emotional intelligence, and metacognition. It can be concluded that mindful agency coaching and motivational interviewing are promising coaching approaches for undergraduate students to become mindful, resilient, and self-determined learners.

China is currently focusing strongly on developing its vocational education and training system, and Germany is an important partner in this process: many German companies operate major manufacturing sites in China and need highly skilled employees. So do German companies in China continue to meet their training needs through the familiar German model of vocational education and training (or a similar model)? Or does their model for training production staff more closely resemble the Chinese model? To date, there have been few research studies in this area. This article aims to fill the gap with a 'home international' comparison of the training strategies of Chinese and German companies in China. Theory-driven semi-structured interviews were conducted with managers of human resources departments in 11 Chinese companies and 11 subsidiaries of German companies in China. Transcripts of these interviews were then subjected to textual analysis to systematize the findings and extract data. The findings demonstrate both similarities and differences between the Chinese and the German companies, particularly in terms of the links between the national training system, the national labour market and the social setting.

Have frequently adjusted minimum wages slowed the widening of income inequality in China? To answer this question, this study examines the impact of minimum wages on income inequality among the migrant population using data from the China Migrants Dynamics Survey (CMDS) for 2011–2018 and data on city-level minimum wages over the same period. The research findings indicate that the minimum wage significantly reduces income inequality within China’s migrant population. Importantly, the conclusion remains robust after employing rigorous analytical methods, such as instrumental variable analysis, replacement of the explained variable, and provincial-level data regression analysis. Moreover, the mechanism analysis reveals that the minimum wage contributes to reducing income inequality within the migrant population by raising the income of low-income groups without causing unemployment. The extent of this impact is closely related to the implementation of regional minimum wage policies. Additionally, the heterogeneity results show that minimum wage has a more pronounced effect on reducing income inequality among formally employed individuals and those working in the state-owned sector than in the informal employment and non-state-owned sectors. Overall, these findings provide valuable insights for policymakers to further optimize the minimum wage system in China to promote common prosperity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD) is a significant health concern in children worldwide. In this study, we aimed to analyze the clinical features, antibiotic resistance, and risk variables for poor outcomes in patients with IPD in Hangzhou. Methods: A retrospective single-centre study was performed using the pediatric intensive care (PIC) database from 2010 to 2018. The clinical characteristics, laboratory data, antimicrobial resistance, and risk factors for in-hospital mortality and sepsis in patients with IPD in intensive care units (ICUs) were analyzed systematically. Results: A total of 178 IPD patients were included in the study. The majority of the IPD children were 2–10 years old. Antimicrobial resistance tests of S. pneumoniae isolates revealed high resistance to erythromycin, tetracycline and compound sulfamethoxazole (SMZ-Co). All the isolates were sensitive to vancomycin, linezolid, moxifloxacin, telithromycin, ofloxacin, and levofloxacin. IPD patients may experience poor outcomes, including death and sepsis. The in-hospital mortality was 3.93%, and 34.27% of patients suffered from sepsis. Temperature (OR 3.80, 95% CI 1.62–8.87; P = 0.0021), Partial Pressure of Oxygen in Arterial Blood (PaO2) (OR 0.99, 95% CI 0.98-1.00; P = 0.0266), and albumin (OR 0.89, 95% CI 0.80–0.99; P = 0.0329) were found to be independent risk factors for sepsis in children with IPD. Conclusion: Pediatric IPD deserves attention in China. Appropriate surveillance and antibiotic selection are crucial in managing resistant strains. Early identification of high-risk individuals with risk factors contributes to the development of appropriate treatment strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: As the population ages, senior care for older adults in China has become increasingly important and has attracted the attention of both government and society. This study aimed to explore preferences and influencing factors related to senior care among older Chinese adults and thus propose effective and targeted strategies for the development of a comprehensive care system for older adults in the aging Chinese population. Methods: Data were obtained from a cross-sectional survey conducted in sixteen communities or villages in Jiangsu Province, China, from July to September 2021. Guided by the Andersen Behavioral Model, multivariate logistic regression was conducted to identify factors associated with preferences for senior care arrangements. Results: A total of 870 respondents were included in the study, 60.11% of whom preferred receiving care in their own homes, while only 13.68% chose residential care facilities (RCFs). For predisposing factors, rural respondents preferred receiving care in their own homes compared to urban respondents (children's home: OR = 0.55, P < 0.01; RCF: OR = 0.58, P < 0.01). Concerning enabling factors, respondents who were not employed (OR = 2.30, P < 0.01) and those without financial support (OR = 2.73, P < 0.05) preferred RCFs to their own homes. Respondents receiving life assistance (sometimes: OR = 2.76, P < 0.001; regularly: OR = 2.57, P < 0.01; every day: OR = 3.57, P < 0.001) preferred their children's homes to their own homes. In terms of need factors, respondents with noncommunicable diseases (NCDs, OR > 1, P < 0.05), those who knew about RCFs (some: OR = 0.53, P < 0.005; no: OR = 0.10, P < 0.001) and those with a good impression of RCFs (fair: OR = 3.72, P < 0.05; good: OR = 11.91, P < 0.001) preferred receiving care in RCFs compared to their counterparts. Conclusions: Older Chinese adults' senior care preferences were affected by predisposing factors, enabling factors, and need factors. Policy-makers should consider targeted measures to identify more precise senior care services and thus address aging challenges in China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Relapsed or refractory classic Hodgkin lymphoma (RRcHL) associates with poor prognosis and heavy disease burden to patients. This study evaluated the cost-effectiveness of brentuximab vedotin (BV) in comparison to conventional chemotherapy in patients with RRcHL, from a Chinese healthcare perspective. Methods: The lifetime cost and quality adjusted life years (QALYs) were estimated through a partitioned survival model with three health states (progression free, post progression, and death). Two cohorts for each BV arm and chemotherapy arm were built, representing patients with and without transplant after BV or chemotherapy, respectively. Clinical parameters were retrieved from BV trials and the literature. Resource utilization data were mainly collected from local expert surveys and cost parameters were reflecting local unit prices. Utility values were sourced from the literature. A discount rate of 5% was employed according to the Chinese guideline. A series of deterministic and probabilistic sensitivity analyses were conducted to evaluate the robustness and uncertainty associated with the model. Results: Results of the base case analysis showed that the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) for BV versus chemotherapy was $2,867 (¥19,774). The main model driver was the superior progression-free and overall survival benefits of BV. The ICERs were relatively robust in a series of sensitivity analyses, all under a conventional decision threshold (1 time of Chinese per capita GDP). With this conventional threshold, the probability of BV being cost-effective was 100%. Conclusions: Brentuximab vedotin can be considered a cost-effective treatment versus conventional chemotherapy in treating relapsed or refractory classic Hodgkin lymphoma in China. Highlights: In China, BV was approved in 2020 for the treatment of adult patients with CD30-positive RRcHL. However, the economic value of BV compared with conventional therapy remains unknown. This study evaluated the cost-effectiveness of brentuximab vedotin (BV) in comparison to conventional chemotherapy in patients with RRcHL, from a Chinese healthcare perspective. Brentuximab vedotin can be considered a cost-effective treatment versus conventional chemotherapy in treating relapsed or refractory classic Hodgkin lymphoma in China, with the ICER under a conventional decision threshold (1 time of Chinese per capita GDP). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Urban informal settlements (UISs) are densely populated and poorly developed residential areas in urban areas. The mapping of UISs using remote sensing is crucial for urban planning and management. However, the large-scale extraction of UISs is impeded by the labor-intensive task of collecting numerous training samples and the lack of automatic and effective city partition. To overcome these challenges, we proposed a large-scale extraction framework for UISs based on semantic segmentation of highresolution remote sensing images. Utilizing Deeplab V3 Plus as the foundational extraction model, the proposed framework introduces fast sample collection based on GLCM features. Besides, an automatic city partition approach combined with clustering and fine-tuning was proposed to enhance the performance on extracting a specific category of UISs. The results of the case study conducted in 36 major Chinese cities show that the proposed framework achieved good performance, with an overall F1 score of 85.76%. Furthermore, comparative assessments were performed to demonstrate the effectiveness of automatic city partition. The proposed framework offers a practical approach for the largescale extraction of UISs, which holds great significance for sustainable development, poverty estimation, infrastructure construction, and urban planning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Extensive research has documented bully victimization as a pivotal risk factor contributing to aggressive behaviors among adolescents. Particularly, the negative outcome of increased aggressive behaviors may be exacerbated when the aggressive actions are novel and difficult to detect. The present study aims to explore the complex relationships between cyberbullying and school bullying victimization and malevolent creativity and the potential mediating role of hostile attribution using two-wave longitudinal data. The present study analyzed data from 262 rural adolescents. The results revealed that cyberbullying victimization significantly predicted malevolent creativity, whereas school bullying victimization did not. Hostile attribution served as a mediator in the relationship between cyberbullying victimization and malevolent creativity in the longitudinal models. These findings provide significant implications for mitigating the negative influence of bullying victimization on the emergence of malevolent creativity in rural adolescents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study aimed to identify reliable predictors of haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) reduction and weight loss within 6 months after treatment with exenatide. Methods: A total of 343 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus were examined and followed up for 12 months. The study patients were divided into two groups: responders and non-responders, which were defined based on their glycemic control (responders: HbA1c reduction of ≥ 1.0%) and weight response (responders: weight loss of ≥ 3%) within 6 months after exenatide administration. Binary logistic regression analysis was performed to identify the predictors associated with exenatide response, and a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was plotted to assess the predictive ability of the identified factors. Results: Of the 148 patients who met the inclusion criteria, 53 (35.81%) were responders and 95 (64.19%) were non-responders. Binary logistic regression analysis revealed that baseline HbA1c, baseline weight, and duration of diabetes were significant predictors of glycemic and weight responses to exenatide. The area under the curve of the ROC for the predictors of HbA1c and weight responses within 6 months after exenatide initiation was 0.765 (95% confidence interval: 0.686–0.845). Conclusion: Baseline HbA1c, baseline weight, and duration of diabetes may serve as predictors for glycemic and weight responses to exenatide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Elsholtzia, as a folk medicine, has been widely used in Miao, Yi, and Lahu nationalities and Tibetan and Chinese medicines in China. We aimed to elucidate the possible mechanisms of action of flavonoids of Elsholtzia densa Benth. (FIE) on apoptosis in HeLa human cervical cancer cells in vitro. Methods: Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) were used to detect the chemical constituents responsible for the effects of FIE. Network pharmacology was employed to predict the active constituents and their targets to explore the mechanism of action of FIE in treating cervical cancer. Cell cycle and apoptosis were detected by flow cytometry. The intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) level and the mitochondrial membrane potential were detected in HeLa cells treated with FIE. RT-PCR assays quantified the expression of apoptosis-related genes. Results and Discusssion: A total of 36 and 109 components were identified by GC-MS and LC-MS, respectively. Six active components, including 5-hydroxy-6,7-dimethoxyflavone, baicalein, cirsimaritin, epicatechin, luteolin, and 5,7-dihydroxy-6-methoxy2-phenylchromen-4-onem, were predicted by network pharmacology. The active components may affect the proliferation and apoptosis of HeLa cells through various cancer pathways, such as NF-kB and PI3K-Akt signaling pathways. FIE significantly inhibited colony formation in HeLa cells. We observed an increase in the total population of apoptotic cells and ROS content in HeLa cells. Further, the mitochondrial membrane potential of HeLa cells was significantly decreased. In HeLa cells, the expression levels of apoptosis-related genes, such as cytochrome C, caspase-3, caspase-9, and bax, were increased, while that of bcl-2 was decreased. Moreover, the ultrastructure of the cells exhibited apoptotic characteristics. Numerous vacuoles and the autophagic structure of the damaged mitochondrial organelles were observed in the cytoplasm of HeLa cells. Conclusions: Flavonoids of Elsholtzia densa Benth. showed clear inhibitory activity in HeLa cells and induced HeLa cell apoptosis through the mitochondrial endogenous apoptotic pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil texture affects rice nutrient uptake and yield formation by influencing soil structure, microbial activity, and soil nutrient supply capacity. Analyzing the relationship between soil texture, nutrient content, and rice agronomic traits is of great significance for precise and efficient fertilizer application. The tillage layer (0–20 cm) of 31 paddy fields in China's main rice-producing areas was collected to perform rice pot experiments, and soil texture characteristics, physicochemical properties, microbial-related indicators, and rice agronomic traits were measured and analyzed. The results showed that these soils could be classified into four types of soil texture: loamy sandy soil, sandy loam soil, silty loam soil, and silty soil. Analysis of variance showed that the available nitrogen (AN), available potassium (AK), and available phosphorus (AP) contents were the highest in silty loam, silty, and sandy loam soils, respectively, and silt loamy soil had the highest CEC. Principal component analysis (PCA) also showed that soil physicochemical properties can be distinguished to a certain extent according to soil texture types. For the relationship of soil texture parameters and soil physicochemical properties, soil organic matter (OM), total nitrogen (TN), AN, ammonium nitrogen (NH4+-N), and microbial carbon (MBC) contents were positively correlated with soil clay content, AK was positively correlated with silt content, and soil phosphorus status was significantly related to pH. Mantel's test revealed significant correlations between rice N, P, and K nutrient status, dry matter accumulation, and yield, and soil available nutrient content, MBC, pH, and soil texture parameters. Structural equation modeling (SEM) indicated that sand affected soil available nutrients by regulating pH, while clay can positively influence soil available nutrients by affecting soil organic matter mineralization and microbial activity, thus influencing nutrient absorption and yield formation in rice. Overall, in rice production, the silty and silty loam paddy soil with fine texture and higher clay content facilitates the mineralization of soil organic matter and the activity of soil microbes, resulting in more available soil nutrients, which benefits the rice absorption and accumulation of nutrients. Furthermore, a higher content of clay also promotes the distribution of dry matter to the panicle, thereby promoting rice yield formation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In response to China's policies on pollution control and carbon emission (CE) reductions, more stringent regulations have been implemented to evaluate CE in wastewater treatment facilities. In this study, we have analyzed CE from China's wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) and influencing factor. Emission factor (EF) and operational data integrated methods (ODIM) were utilized to measure emissions, using data collected from 247 WWTPs over a 1-year period across seven regions in China. The average CE intensity was 0.45 kgCO2-eq/m3, affected by region, season, influent water quality, treatment processes, effluent discharge standards, and facilities. The scale effect was obvious only in the range of 2 × 105 m3/day. Underground WWTPs exhibited significantly higher CE compared to aboveground WWTPs. In summary, the assessment of CE in 247 actual WWTPs not only identifies emission reduction potential but also provides a scientific basis for formulating targeted emission reduction measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI) serves as a primary component of polyurethane in various applications, including household appliances, architectural structures, automobiles, and adhesives. A recent MDI plant explosion in China highlighted the importance of studying MDI's thermal stability and parameters to prevent accidental thermal decomposition. In this study, an extensive array of analytical techniques, including differential scanning calorimetry, thermogravimetric analysis, and adiabatic accelerating calorimeter, was employed to determine the thermokinetic constants of MDI, providing a solid foundation for further in-depth investigations. The findings revealed that MDI containing water reacts at substantially lower temperatures, while pure MDI can release heat and gases in an adiabatic environment, posing a considerable explosion risk. The kinetic constant of MDI was calculated using the Flynn–Wall–Ozawa method, yielding apparent activation energy values ranging from 51.78 to 96.70 kJ mol−1 across a conversion degree range of 0.05–0.70. The Coats–Redfern model pinpointed the kinetic reaction mechanism as a two-stage chemical process based on the apparent activation energy. Molecular optimization, following the energy minimisation principle, was conducted using Gaussian 09 software, which led to the identification of the optimal pathway for generating carbodiimide and carbon dioxide. This investigation offers valuable insights for the effective management of MDI during production, transportation, and storage, contributing to improve loss prevention practices in the industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Apple replant disease (ARD), caused by Fusarium pathogens, is a formidable threat to the renewal of apple varieties in China, necessitating the development of effective and sustainable control strategies. In this study, the bacterial strain BA-4 was isolated from the rhizosphere soil of healthy apple trees in a replanted orchard, demonstrating a broad-spectrum antifungal activity against five crucial apple fungal pathogens. Based on its morphology, physiological and biochemical traits, utilization of carbon sources, and Gram stain, strain BA-4 was tentatively identified as Bacillus amyloliquefaciens. Phylogenetic analysis using 16S rDNA and gyrB genes conclusively identified BA-4 as B. amyloliquefaciens. In-depth investigations into B. amyloliquefaciens BA-4 revealed that the strain possesses the capacity to could secrete cell wall degrading enzymes (protease and cellulase), produce molecules analogous to indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) and siderophores, and solubilize phosphorus and potassium. The diverse attributes observed in B. amyloliquefaciens BA-4 underscore its potential as a versatile microorganism with multifaceted benefits for both plant well-being and soil fertility. The extracellular metabolites produced by BA-4 displayed a robust inhibitory effect on Fusarium hyphal growth and spore germination, inducing irregular swelling, atrophy, and abnormal branching of fungal hyphae. In greenhouse experiments, BA-4 markedly reduced the disease index of Fusarium-related ARD, exhibiting protective and therapeutic efficiencies exceeding 80% and 50%, respectively. Moreover, BA-4 demonstrated plantpromoting abilities on both bean and Malus robusta Rehd. (MR) seedlings, leading to increased plant height and primary root length. Field experiments further validated the biocontrol effectiveness of BA-4, demonstrating its ability to mitigate ARD symptoms in MR seedlings with a notable 33.34% reduction in mortality rate and improved biomass. Additionally, BA-4 demonstrates robust and stable colonization capabilities in apple rhizosphere soil, particularly within the 10-20 cm soil layer, which indicates that it has long-term effectiveness potential in field conditions. Overall, B. amyloliquefaciens BA-4 emerges as a promising biocontrol agent with broad-spectrum antagonistic capabilities, positive effects on plant growth, and strong colonization abilities for the sustainable management of ARD in apple cultivation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Posterior circulation Acute Stroke Prognosis Early Computed Tomography Scores (pc-ASPECTS) is a rapid method of measuring early ischemic changes. However, there was no agreement study about pc-ASPECTS. Objectives: The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the agreement on pc-ASPECTS based on non-contrast CT (NCCT) and CT angiography (CTA) source images in patients with acute basilar artery occlusion (BAO). Methods: We prospectively enrolled consecutive patients with acute BAO from January 2022 to August 2022 at the First Affiliated Hospital of University of Science and Technology of China. The NCCT and CTA were scored independently by 15 raters during 2 different reading sessions at least 3 weeks apart. The pc-ASPECTS based on NCCT and CTA were analyzed on the full scale or were dichotomized (0–6 vs. 7–10, 0–7 vs. 8–10, and 0–8 vs. 9–10). The level of agreement was measured using Fleiss κ statistics. Results: The median (IQR) CT-based pc-ASPECTS was 8 (6.75–9). The interrater agreement for CT-based pc-ASPECTS (κ = 0.133 [0.132–0.133]) and CTA-based pc-ASPECTS (κ = 0.204 [0.203–0.204]) was slight for all raters. Dichotomizations obtaining the highest concordance for the CT-based pc-ASPECTS (0–6 vs. 7–10) and the CTA-based pc-ASPECTS (0–8 vs. 9–10) failed to increase the interrater agreement to a substantial level (κ = 0.350 [0.348–0.351] and 0.396 [0.395–0.398], respectively). Intrarater agreement for global CT-based pc-ASPECTS was less than substantial for the 14/15 raters and reached the level of substantial for the 3/15 raters with dichotomization. Conclusions: Agreement between clinicians assessing CT-based and CTA-based pc-ASPECTS cannot be sufficient to make reproducible clinical decisions and assessments. The dichotomization failed to improve interrater and intrarater agreement to the level of substantial. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The integration of the advanced manufacturing industry and the modern service industry is an important direction for the transformation and upgrading of China's manufacturing industry. However, the existing research focuses more on the level, motivation, and economic effects of the integration of manufacturing and producer services, and less on its environmental effects. In this paper, based on the panel data from 30 provincial regions in China from 2005 to 2019, an evaluation system for the integration of manufacturing and producer services (IMP) is constructed, and the carbon emission efficiency (CEE) is calculated through the super-efficiency SBM model. Based on the analysis of the influence mechanism of IMP on CEE, the mediation effect model and the spatial Durbin model are used to test the influence of the IMP on CEE. The results show that the IMP can significantly improve CEE, and indirectly promote CEE through four intermediary factors: value addition, cost reduction, industrial agglomeration and structure upgrading. Finally, we found the level of economic development, property rights structure and regional innovation can promote CEE to varying degrees. The intensity of environmental regulation, opening level and the energy consumption structure inhibit the efficiency of carbon emissions. The total impact of the IMP on CEE is greater in the western region than in the eastern and central regions, and the western region shows a more significant spatial spillover effect. The IMP has a greater effect on improving CEE, and shows a strong spatial spillover effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the increase in regional economic development disparities, a regional coordinated development strategy is put forward that prioritizes human welfare and holistic social progress over a purely materialistic growth model. To address the challenges of balanced regional development, this paper has developed a multidimensional assessment framework of social development encompassing education, healthcare, culture, and social security. Using the entropy weight TOPSIS method, this study measures the social development level across 296 Chinese prefecture-level cities from 1990 to 2020. It explores the spatio-temporal evolution characteristics of China's social development level through the Dagum Gini coefficient decomposition method and exploratory spatial data analysis. The results indicate that (1) the level of social development in China exhibits a fluctuating upward trend over the time series, showing a phase-wise pattern of decline–rise–rise; (2) there is a clear heterogeneity in the level of social development, with a general hierarchy of Eastern, Northeastern, Western, and Central regions in terms of social development; (3) spatially, China's social development level has evolved from a patchy distribution in 1990 to a clustered distribution around urban agglomerations by 2020, with pronounced characteristics of spatial imbalance; (4) the level of social development in China displays varying degrees of spatial clustering, with this trend intensifying over time; and (5) over the period 1990–2020, the overall disparity in China's social development level presents a fluctuating trend, with a notable reduction after an initial increase, and regional disparities following the order of Central, Western, Eastern, and Northeastern regions. This research offers valuable insights for policymakers and scholars seeking to understand and enhance China's social development landscape. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylene (BTEX) are ubiquitous in the environment, and all of them can cause neurotoxicity. However, the association between BTEX exposure and dyslexia, a disorder with language network-related regions in left hemisphere affected, remains unclear. We aimed to assess the relationship between BTEX exposure and dyslexic odds among school-aged children. A case–control study, including 355 dyslexics and 390 controls from three cities in China, was conducted. Six BTEX metabolites were measured in their urine samples. Logistic regression model was used to explore the association between the BTEX metabolites and the dyslexic odds. Urinary trans,trans-muconic acid (MU: a metabolite of benzene) was significantly associated with an increased dyslexic odds [odds ratio (OR) = 1.23, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.01, 1.50], and the adjusted OR of the dyslexic odds in the third tertile was 1.72 (95% CI: 1.06, 2.77) compared to that in the lowest tertile regarding urinary MU concentration. Furthermore, the association between urinary MU level and the dyslexic odds was more pronounced among children from low-income families based on stratified analyses. Urinary metabolite levels of toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylene were not found to be associated with the dyslexic odds. In summary, elevated MU concentrations may be associated with an increased dyslexic odds. We should take measures to reduce MU related exposure among children, particularly those with low family income. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The aged people who live in nursing home are predicted to keep growing in the following decades. There are both quantitative imbalance and structural imbalance in the utilization of nursing homes in China. This study aimed to analyze old people's preference for nursing homes and help the government optimize resource allocation. Methods: A discrete choice experiment (DCE) was conducted and six attributes of nursing homes including monthly fee, distance from home, geographical location, medical facilities, environment of nursing homes and nursing staff were determined. Respondents were recruited from Nantong and Yangzhou city, China. In each city, two communities or villages were randomly selected. In each community/village, about 65 old people were randomly selected. Analysis was conducted using mixed logit regression models to determine preferences for potential attributes. Results: A total of 233 old people were included in the analysis. The findings indicated that all six attributes were statistically significant factors for participants. "Professional nursing staff" was the most important characteristic to participants, followed by "Medical facilities". Compared with female, the males preferred professional nursing staff (β = 2.939 vs. β = 2.643, P < 0.001), medical facilities (β = 1.890 vs. β = 1.498, P < 0.001), and the environment (β = 0.752, P < 0.01). For different age groups, participants aged 60–69 didn't pay attention to distance and location, while those aged 80 and above only paid attention to professional nursing staff and medical facilities. Conclusions: The present study provides important insights into the characteristics of nursing home that are most preferred by old people. Authorities should take into account old people's preference in the planning, design and evaluation of nursing homes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]