bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Challenges Emerged During an Action Research Approach Applied in a Schoolgarden Project: Reflections and Revisions
Authors: Christodoulou Anthi , Korfiatis Konstantinos
Published: December 2023

This paper reports on the challenges that emerged during an Action Research (AR) school kitchen-garden project. The AR team included the teacher/researcher (T/R), the critical friend, the facilitators (i.e. the T/R’s academic advisor and the school’s principal) and three more colleague teachers. Data was derived from T/R observations and students’ reflecting notes. The results exhibited four categories of challenges that emerged during the AR cycles concerning teaching and research strategies, research coordination and students’ participation. It transpired that a research group which was committed to dialogue, shared knowledge and action managed to create a participatory and effective project. Strategies such as organizing regular meetings between the research team members, developing a friendly relationship between teachers and participating students, having a personal approach toward students who participate in the applied project (e.g., private conversations), identifying students’ personal worries or social difficulties and applying activities promoting students’ creativity, mobility and autonomy could be helpful to other environmental educational projects, as well.
Assessing the Quality of Mentoring: Evidence-Based Development of a Training Programme for Biology Mentors and Pre-service Biology Teachers for Scientific Issues
Authors: Nestler Emanuel , Retzlaff-Fürst Carolin , Groß Jorge
Published: December 2023

Mentoring is a key scaffold where pre-service biology teachers are supported by an experienced biology teacher (i.e. a mentor). A SWOT analysis revealed that our federal state is missing biology mentor teacher (BMT) training. We conducted a design-based research study to create a training programme for our biology mentor teachers. The first aim of the study was to develop the theoretical background for the complex process for biology mentor teacher training. The tetrahedron model developed by Prediger and colleagues was adapted to describe the challenging situation for BMT training. Our second aim was to evaluate the mentoring quality and subject-specific content of mentoring dialogues in the design cycle to connect this study to previous research. Our results show that mentoring quality increases after BMT training. Surprisingly, the mentor teacher and the pre-service teacher differ in their assessment. The evaluation of content of mentoring dialogues shows a higher share of discussions on content knowledge than in previous studies. All in all, this is one of the first studies on BMT training. This paper is an invitation to continue the work in this important field of biology teacher training.
The Effect of Adult Intervention in the Development of Science Process Skills
Authors: Napal Fraile María , Vázquez Bienzobas Lara , Zudaire Ripa Isabel , Uriz Doray Irantzu
Published: December 2023

Contrary to the commonly held belief that preschool children are not prepared to understand certain scientific phenomena, studies have shown at least an incipient command of science process skills (SPS) whenever children are provided with various opportunities and contexts for learning. Specifically, the degree of adult intervention may strongly determine learning outcomes, especially if this role consists of guiding exploration with productive questions that help the children focus their attention on the phenomena of interest. This research was aimed at assessing the impact of different styles of adult intervention on the learning of and engagement with science tasks, in the context of a proposal intended to develop SPS among young children. Forty-two children aged 4–6 were subdivided in three groups and participated in various science proposals under different styles of adult intervention: children-led, adult-led or scaffolded exploration. While the adult-led group attained the most detailed learning of concepts, the scaffolded exploration group improved their basic SPS more. The children-led intervention had the poorest results. The type of questions proved crucial, with productive questions which prompt the children to focus their attention or find a solution leading to much more accurate and complete answers.
Facilitating the Practice of 4C Skills in Biology Education Through Educational Escape Rooms
Authors: Villias Georgios , Winterbottom Mark
Published: December 2023

The aim of this longitudinal, mixed-method research study is to examine thoroughly the design and practical application of a new, promising, multi-dimensional educational approach that has emerged recently, namely Educational Escape Rooms (EERs). Focusing on EERs’ educational potential to facilitate learners in developing their 21st century skills, the study attempts to systematically record which of the 4Cs (Critical thinking, Creativity, Collaboration, Communication) are being practised by students while engaging in an EER activity, but also to examine whether a measurable development of these skills could be observed. From a practitioner’s perspective, the research study also seeks answers on how to optimise the design of these didactic interventions so as to enhance the practice of the 4C skills. Regarding the study’s outcome, the research provides strong empirical evidence of EERs’ ability to foster the practice of these skills, illustrating the significance of their puzzles’ design. It also presents several indications of skills development, acknowledging the need for further investigation. Lastly, it reveals the existence of specific connections between certain puzzle types and the practice of the 4C skills. These findings, in turn, enabled us to frame useful guidelines for designing EERs that combine the practice and development of these skills with content learning.
Friends or Foes? Microorganisms in Greek School Textbooks
Authors: Ampatzidis Georgios , Armeni Anastasia
Published: December 2023

A thorough understanding of microorganisms is considered essential in order for students to understand their importance in biological systems and increasing use in industry and technology. However, research shows that the majority of students conceptualize them solely as dangerous and harmful. It has been argued that education should emphasize the importance that microorganisms have in human lives; a conceptual change to the representation of microorganisms that integrates their diversity and beneficial contributions seems an essential goal for science education. Considering the fact that science textbooks determine largely what is learned about science in the classroom, we explored Greek science textbooks in regard to the representation of microorganisms. Eight textbooks currently in use were investigated. Paragraphs mentioning microbes or microorganisms (187) were coded by both authors in mutually exclusive categories with satisfactory inter-rater agreement. Analysis of results shows that (a) in most cases microorganisms are mentioned in relation to health, and (b) the instances where microorganisms are presented in negative ways (i.e. as pathogens for humans and other organisms) are more than the instances where microorganisms are presented in positive ways (i.e. as part of the human microbiome or having a role in beneficial applications and procedures). Relevant literature and possible implications are discussed.
Energy Justice Concerns of Nuclear Power in the 2025 Energy Transition Vision of Taiwan and Net Zero Roadmap of 2050
Authors: Gao Anton Ming-Zhi
Published: December 2023

Energy justice emerged as a crosscutting social science research agenda aiming to apply justice to energy policy, energy production and systems, energy consumption, energy activism, energy security, and climate change. The scope is suitable for analyzing the efforts of the Taiwan government (TG) when designing the 2025 Energy Transition and nuclear-free Vision planned since 2016 and the 2050 Net Zero Roadmap since 2021. This perspective on a nuclear-free country without any exception presents concerns related to energy justice and will be explored in this chapter.
The Power of Energy Justice for Rural Communities
Authors: Taylor Madeline
Published: December 2023

Rural communities hold a critical role in progressing the energy transformation agenda to reach net-zero emissions. Yet, to date, global energy policies have tended to focus on energy security, availability, affordability, and sustainability in urban regions. This chapter surveys rural communities, which are often in proximity to or host energy developments, as a crucial conduit in the renewed social contract paradigm. A growing scholarly and commercial consensus confirms without energy justice principles, rural community contestation and conflicts over net-zero energy developments are likely to arise. Such conflict may lead to withdrawal from the Social Licence to Operate (SLO) process and create risks and uncertainty for net-zero energy projects. It examines challenges and opportunities for energy justice in rural communities highlighting the need for rural community engagement roadmaps and a more nuanced understanding and mitigation of community-level needs to ensure a sustainable energy future.
A Pivotal Moment for Energy Community Cooperation in Chile
Authors: Stephani Elizabeth
Published: December 2023

Chile is undergoing the energy transition similar to many countries. However, there are key problems and in particular in the context of recognition and restorative justice. There are issues in relation to the Mapuche indigenous communities and their land in the context of clean energy development. Foreign investors need to realize the true cost of such investment which needs to be more ‘just.’ Reform in law and even potentially in the constitution would support the indigenous communities and ensure that development happens with energy justice at its core.
Energy Justice and the Social Contract Theory
Authors: de Fontenelle Louis
Published: December 2023

Society is facing many crises, and in particular, the energy crisis is problematic given the climate change challenge. The energy sector needs a new social contract to solve these problems. The social contract is a prerequisite for a new legal and social order that includes legal organization of access, availability, and stability of energy resources, energy quality, and the type of energy used. This change, however, needs to involve citizens and ensure that they are recognized as part of the process. The role and involvement of citizens are central to the success of a new social contract.
The Quest for Cosmopolitan Justice in the Energy Transition in Caribbean Small Island Developing States
Authors: Phillips Alicia
Published: December 2023

The challenges we face now with climate change are universal and are inextricably linked to the call for cosmopolitan justice in the energy transition to renewables. The theory of cosmopolitan justice is based on the outlook that we are all citizens of the world and our moral obligations do not just halt at our borders but extend beyond. As oil-dependent Caribbean Small Island Developing States (SIDS) attempt to make the change to renewables they grapple with their umbilical dependence on the oil and gas economy. In some, it has been their sole source of revenue to fund national development and economic independence. In others, newfound discoveries of oil have occurred just as the world is weaning itself from fossil fuels, providing them with the economic-climate justice dilemma. This concept of cosmopolitan justice is therefore a two-edged sword for Caribbean SIDS. On one end, it serves as a benefit as their climate change vulnerabilities are now starkly recognised with funding being channelled into mitigation, adaptation and as we look towards COP28, loss and damage funding. In contrast, net zero emission targets and the shift to renewables prove difficult due to the sole economic dependence placed on this industry. The careful balance of abiding by their international commitments to reduce emissions and incorporating renewables into their economies is at the heart of the new social contract which is also based on future accountability.
Utilising Recognition Justice to Bridge Climate and Energy Financing Gaps in the Global South
Authors: Nakanwagi Susan
Published: December 2023

This chapter discusses the critical issue of climate and energy financing shortfalls in the global south. It emphasises the urgent need for investment in electricity and sustainable fuels for millions of underprivileged and vulnerable communities to meet the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030. It envisions that, through recognition justice, energy justice could help bridge this gap by helping realign the global financing priorities to help navigate energy financing deficits in the global south. It argues that recognition justice aims to acknowledge and rectify historical injustices in the energy transition and emphasises the need to prioritise funding for marginalised communities. The article identifies barriers to equitable energy financing, such as high up-front costs, lack of supporting legal frameworks, and state fragility. It concludes that recognition justice can play a crucial role in overcoming these obstacles, fostering a just transition to a low-carbon economy, and ensuring that the benefits of clean energy reach all sectors of society in the global south and that the energy funding needs of the disadvantaged groups are prioritised.
Energy Justice Concerns of Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining Amidst Energy Transition
Authors: Basil Chioma V.
Published: December 2023

The history of artisanal and small-scale mining is riddled with injustices ranging from tax avoidance to land grabs, pollution, deforestation, adverse impact on local communities and destruction of the world’s carbon sinks. The benefits and adverse impacts associated with artisanal and small-scale mining are of global significance; often involving elements of technological, economic, environmental, health and safety, social, and governmental and political concerns. The exacerbated demand for metals used for low-carbon technologies as a result of climate change mitigation necessitates an intervention against the grave dangers associated with small-scale mining activities. Unfortunately, many governments do not attempt to control these activities, which are either outside their regulatory framework, or they lack the capacity to monitor or control these activities. This chapter examines the vital role of the artisanal and small-scale mining industry and the imminent relevance of energy justice application to this growing and unrecognised industry. It highlights how energy justice promotes the rights protection of artisanal and small-scale miners and communities, the redistribution of benefits, and environmental protection. Consequently, a social contract can be implemented to attain transformative change in the industry and ensure global well-being, hence, a just transition to a carbon-free economy.
The Energy Justice Imperative for Clean Energy Storage Alternatives
Authors: Zengin Zinnure Osman
Published: December 2023

This chapter delves into energy storage options and the concept of energy justice. In the age of energy transition, energy storage plays a pivotal role as catalyst. However, conventional batteries carry environmental and social risks that are hardly recognised. This chapter adopts the energy justice lens to explore energy storage options and questions whether they are in line with energy justice principles. Drawing from contemporary research and case studies, this chapter explores opportunities and challenges associated with various energy storage technologies. Through a comparative analysis of conventional batteries with pumped hydroelectric storage (PHS), thermal energy storage (TES), and compressed air energy storage (CAES), this chapter suggests that alternative energy storage options offer more equitable solutions.
Energy Education: A Cosmopolitan Challenge to Ensure Justice in the Transition
Authors: Pepe Luigi Maria
Published: December 2023

Nowadays, it is crucial to emphasize how energy education may be included among the energy justice challenges. It is only by spreading energy education among the future generations that the future society can gain the skills needed to identify and address the energy world injustices. For this purpose, an Energy Education Recovery Plan is needed across countries in order to spread the awareness and the importance of the energy justice principles.
An Energy Justice Exploration to the Revival of the Solar Thermal Energy in France
Authors: Annamayer Elodie
Published: December 2023

At a time when the French authorities are defining the future energy and climate programme law, the question of diversifying renewable energy sources is being raised more than ever. In this context, the revitalisation of the solar thermal sector seems to be the ideal solution. The energy justice framework should provide a useful prism through which to determine the legal restructuring of this sector, which, despite many expectations, is not yet fully operational. The means by which individuals gain access to the services offered by solar thermal technologies (e.g. financial support) should then be examined. The aim would then be to avoid a perception of social injustice for the most vulnerable households. Solutions for procedural justice (access to information) and distributive justice (subsidies to households) need to be rethought and better defined. Finally, the measures taken by the French authorities over the last ten years have probably not been sufficient to make the consumer a key actor in the production of solar thermal energy.
The correspondence between rotating black holes and fundamental strings
Authors: Čeplak Nejc , Emparan Roberto , Puhm Andrea , Tomašević Marija
Published: December 2023

Abstract

The correspondence principle between strings and black holes is a general framework for matching black holes and massive states of fundamental strings at a point where their physical properties (such as mass, entropy and temperature) smoothly agree with each other. This correspondence becomes puzzling when attempting to include rotation: At large enough spins, there exist degenerate string states that seemingly cannot be matched to any black hole. Conversely, there exist black holes with arbitrarily large spins that cannot correspond to any single-string state. We discuss in detail the properties of both types of objects and find that a correspondence that resolves the puzzles is possible by adding dynamical features and non-stationary configurations to the picture. Our scheme incorporates all black hole and string phases as part of the correspondence, save for one outlier which remains enigmatic: the near-extremal Kerr black hole. Along the way, we elaborate on general aspects of the correspondence that have not been emphasized before.
A novel approach for the fractional SLS material model experimental identification
Authors: Amadori Stefano , Catania Giuseppe
Published: December 2023

A multi-step, iterative technique for the local non-parametric identification of the standard linear solid (SLS) material model employing fractional order time differential operators is presented. Test input data consists of a set of identified material complex modulus values estimated at different frequency values, obtained from input–output experimental measurements made on a material specimen by means of forced harmonic excitation and from experimental measurements made on the same specimen in quasi-static relaxation conditions. The proposed technique is mainly based on an algebraic procedure leading to the solution of an overdetermined system of linear equations, in order to get the optimal value of the model unknown parameters. The procedure is non-parametric, since the SLS model order is initially unknown. The optimal model size can be found by evaluating the stability properties of the solution associated to any model size and by automatically discarding computational, non-physical contributions. The identification procedure is first validated by means of numerically simulated test data from within known model examples, and then it is applied to some experimentally obtained test data associated to different materials.
Face detection based on a human attention guided multi-scale model
Authors: Cadoni Marinella , Lagorio Andrea , Grosso Enrico
Published: December 2023

Multiscale models are among the cutting-edge technologies used for face detection and recognition. An example is Deformable part-based models (DPMs), which encode a face as a multiplicity of local areas (parts) at different resolution scales and their hierarchical and spatial relationship. Although these models have proven successful and incredibly efficient in practical applications, the mutual position and spatial resolution of the parts involved are arbitrarily defined by a human specialist and the final choice of the optimal scales and parts is based on heuristics. This work seeks to understand whether a multi-scale model can take inspiration from human fixations to select specific areas and spatial scales. In more detail, it shows that a multi-scale pyramid representation can be adopted to extract interesting points, and that human attention can be used to select the points at the scales that lead to the best face detection performance. Human fixations can therefore provide a valid methodological basis on which to build a multiscale model, by selecting the spatial scales and areas of interest that are most relevant to humans.
The financial burden experienced by families during NICU hospitalization and after discharge: A single center, survey-based study
Authors: Lambiase Carmine Vincenzo , Mansi Giuseppina , Salomè Serena , Conelli Maria Laura , Vendemmia Maria , Zurlo Maria Clelia , Raimondi Francesco , Capasso Letizia
Published: December 2023

To investigate a broad array of costs and perceived financial burden (FB) faced by families of NICU graduates both during hospitalization and after discharge. Cross-sectional survey-based study design. A survey measuring socio-demographics, direct non-medical costs, indirect costs, social support and perceived FB was developed. One-hundred-twenty-two pairs of parents of NICU graduates participated in the study. Most of the families (87.7%) experienced FB due to NICU hospitalization. The median cost of visiting infant during NICU admission was 615 euros (range: 42,7320). FB correlated with cost for drugs (ρ = .271, p < .05, 95%CI:[.020, .490]), dietary supplement (ρ = .385, p < .05, CI:[.010, .665]), behavioral disorders (ρ =  −.186, p < .05, 95%CI:[−.356, −.003]), language delay (ρ = .243, p < .01, CI:[−.408, −.063]) and comorbidities (ρ =  −.206, p < .05, 95% CI:[−.374, −.024]). Transportation costs due to medical visits (ρ = .415, p < .01, 95% CI:[.239, .564]) and therapy sessions (ρ = .517, p < .05, CI:[.121, .771]) correlated with higher FB. Grandparents of the infant were the most frequent source of help (86.1%). Families having infants with adverse outcome experienced more hospitalizations after NICU discharge (p < .05) and higher FB (p < .01) than families with typically developing infant. Lack of government financial help was associated with higher perceived FB (CI:[1.117,29.127], p < .05).

   Conclusions: Our findings demonstrated that parents of NICU graduates experience high rates of FB, highlighting their sources (e.g., grandparents support) and difficulties (e.g., private therapy costs) through the lens of patient perspective. Our study promotes reflection on policies which should be adopted from the European health services that are similar to the Italian one to support NICU graduate families and reduce inequalities.

What is Known:• Families of NICU graduates face several kinds of costs during hospitalization and after discharge.

What is New:• NICU hospitalization is a multifaceted event that impact financial burden experienced by families.• NICU graduate families whose infant had adverse outcome and felt lack of financial help from local policy makers experience higher rates of financial burden.
Zur Ethik der Forschungsnutzung von Patientendaten
Authors: Schickhardt Christoph , Mehlis Katja , Winkler Eva C. , Jungkunz Martin
Published: December 2023

Hintergrund

Die Nutzung von Patientendaten aus Diagnostik und Therapie birgt Potenzial für medizinischen Fortschritt, wirft aber auch ethische Fragen mit Blick auf Patienten und Ärzte auf.

Fragestellung

Welche ethischen Herausforderungen mit Blick auf Patienten und Ärzte gibt es bei der Sekundärnutzung von Patientendaten? Was dürfen sie erwarten und was sollten sie beitragen? Welche Einstellungen haben Ärzte und Patienten hinsichtlich der Sekundärnutzung von Patientendaten?

Material und Methode

Der Artikel stellt zusammenfassend ethische und sozialwissenschaftliche Ergebnisse aus dem interdisziplinären und von der Deutschen Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) geförderten LinCDat-Verbundprojekt vor, die mit ethisch-konzeptionellen Analysen bzw. mit quantitativen sozialempirischen Befragungen gewonnen wurden.

Ergebnisse

Patienten und Ärzte haben unter bestimmten Bedingungen die grundsätzliche moralische Pflicht, die Sekundärnutzung zu unterstützen. Befragte Patienten und Ärzte zeigten sich mit großer Mehrheit bereit, die Sekundärnutzung zu unterstützen.

Schlussfolgerung

Patientendaten sollten für die Forschung genutzt werden. Für viele ethische Aspekte (Akzeptanz der breiten Einwilligung, Zumutbarkeit, moralische Pflichten) der Sekundärnutzung von Patientendaten spielt die praktische Umsetzung (Datenschutzmaßnahmen, Governance-Rahmen, zusätzliche Aufwände) eine wichtige Rolle.
Facile synthesis: from Laminaria hyperborea to cellulose films and fibers
Authors: Dai Yanqi , Sun Dongyang , Sundaram Senthilarasu , Delbusso Angelo , O’Rourke Dominic , Dorris Mark , Edirisinghe Mohan
Published: December 2023

Inverted nozzle-pressurized gyration was used as a processing methodology for regenerating cellulose extracted from Laminaria hyperborea for the first time. The viscoelasticity of cellulose/1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium acetate (EMIM OAc) solutions exhibited high concentration dependence, leading to the production of cellulose products with diverse structures. The regenerated cellulose transitioned from thin films to fibers (≈ 5 μm diameter) as the concentration was increased. The impact of collection distance and working pressure on the morphology and yield of fibers was investigated. This work provides a new sustainable route for processing biopolymers, offering significant potential for applications in biomedicine and healthcare.
Reusable educational resources for developing complex thinking on open platforms
Authors: Sanabria-Z Jorge , Alfaro-Ponce Berenice , González-Pérez Laura Icela , Ramírez-Montoya María Soledad
Published: December 2023

In the context of rapid technological advancements and the increasing availability of Open Educational Resources (OER), there is a growing need to foster complex thinking skills in higher education. The study aims to characterize OER platforms that facilitate the development of such skills, grounded in UNESCO’s recommendations and the evolving definitions of complex thinking. Utilizing a Systematic Literature Review (SLR), the research focuses on three key questions: the type of open license allowing 5R activities, the technical options based on the ALMS Framework, and the sub-competencies of complex thinking that can be nurtured through OER. The study identifies and categorizes key platforms conducive to the development of complex thinking skills, namely innovative, critical, scientific, and systemic thinking. These platforms are analyzed based on their licensing types and technical capabilities. Findings indicate that most of the platforms studied support 5R activities under Creative Commons licenses, require advanced editing skills, and more than half address multiple subcompetencies of complex thinking. The study concludes that the adaptation, reuse, and redistribution of OER can significantly contribute to fostering complex thinking skills, aligning educational practices with 21st-century demands. Recommendations include the development of frameworks by higher education institutions to normalize OER platforms and meet students’ needs, as well as future research to assess user behavior and sustainability of these platforms.
Empagliflozin repurposing in Parkinson’s disease; modulation of oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, AMPK/SIRT-1/PGC-1α, and wnt/β-catenin pathways
Authors: Mohammed Noha Nabil , Tadros Mariane G. , George Mina Y.
Published: December 2023

Parkinson's disease is a neuroprogressive disorder characterized by loss of dopaminergic neurons in substantia nigra pars compacta. Empagliflozin (EMPA), a SGLT-2 inhibitor, is an oral hypoglycemic agent with reported anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. The current study aimed to evaluate the neuroprotective effect of EMPA in rotenone-induced Parkinson's disease. Rats were randomly distributed among five groups as follows: control, rotenone (2 mg/kg), rotenone + EMPA (10 mg/kg), rotenone + EMPA (20 mg/kg), and EMPA (20 mg/kg) groups. They were treated for 30 consecutive days. Rotenone reduced locomotor activity and retention time on the rotarod performance test while elongated descent latency time. On the other side, EMPA corrected these behavioral changes. These results were confirmed by histological examination and number of intact neurons. Moreover, rotenone induced alpha-synuclein accumulation, reduced tyrosine hydroxylase expression, dopamine, 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid, and homovanillic acid concentrations. On the other side, EMPA reversed such effects induced by rotenone. Depending on previous results, EMPA (20 mg/kg) was selected for further mechanistic studies. Rotenone ameliorated superoxide dismutase and catalase activities and enhanced lipid peroxidation, interleukin-1β, and tumor necrosis factor-α levels. By contrast, EMPA opposed rotenone-induced effects on oxidative stress and inflammation. Besides, rotenone reduced the expression of pAMP-activated protein kinase (pAMPK), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma coactivator-1α (PGC-1α), and Sirtuin-1 (SIRT-1), as well as abrogated NAD+/NADH ratio. However, EMPA activated the AMPK/SIRT-1/PGC-1α pathway. Moreover, rotenone hindered the wnt/β-catenin pathway by reducing the wnt-3a level and β-catenin expression. On the other side, EMPA triggered activation of the wnt/β-catenin pathway. Collectively, EMPA may provide a promising solution for Parkinson's patients worldwide.
A Mummers Farce – Retractions of Medical Papers Conducted in Egyptian Institutions
Authors: Menshawey Rahma , Menshawey Esraa , Mahamud Bilal A.
Published: December 2023

Egypt currently holds the record for the most retractions in the continent of Africa according to the Retraction Watch database, and the 2nd highest of countries in the Middle East. The purpose of this study was to analyse the retracted medical publications from Egyptian affiliations, in order to delineate specific problems and solutions. We examined databases including Pubmed, Google Scholar and others, for all retracted medical publications that were conducted in an Egyptian institution, up to the date of August 31st 2022. We observed for the reason(s) for retraction, number of citations of the retracted work, the length of time between publication and retraction, and where the work was published (journal, publisher and impact factor). 68 retractions were identified. Most retractions were from the speciality of Obstetrics and Gynecology (n = 22), followed by Anesthesia (n = 7). The top 3 reasons for retraction were unreliable results, FFP level misconduct, and duplicate publication. The number of retractions significantly increased over the years, especially in 2022. When taking into account the number of medical publications per institution, the institute with the highest rate of retractions was Mansoura University, while the lowest rate was Cairo University. The number of retracted medical Egyptian publications continues to increase over time, although they represent a small portion of the overall body of Egyptian medical research. Future studies on retracted articles should employ a methodology that considers the institutions where the studies were conducted. This could allow a better understanding of specific problems in certain countries or regions.
A Shared Control Approach Based on First-Order Dynamical Systems and Closed-Loop Variable Stiffness Control
Authors: Xue Haotian , Michel Youssef , Lee Dongheui
Published: December 2023

In this paper, we present a novel learning-based shared control framework. This framework deploys first-order Dynamical Systems (DS) as motion generators providing the desired reference motion, and a Variable Stiffness Dynamical Systems (VSDS) (Chen et al. 2021) for haptic guidance. We show how to shape several features of our controller in order to achieve authority allocation, local motion refinement, in addition to the inherent ability of the controller to automatically synchronize with the human state during joint task execution. We validate our approach in a teleoperated task scenario, where we also showcase the ability of our framework to deal with situations that require updating task knowledge due to possible changes in the task scenario, or changes in the environment. Finally, we conduct a user study to compare the performance of our VSDS controller for guidance generation to two state-of-the-art controllers in a target reaching task. The result shows that our VSDS controller has the highest successful rate of task execution among all conditions. Besides, our VSDS controller helps reduce the execution time and task load significantly, and was selected as the most favorable controller by participants.
Solving the imbalanced data issue: automatic urgency detection for instructor assistance in MOOC discussion forums
Authors: Alrajhi Laila , Alamri Ahmed , Pereira Filipe Dwan , Cristea Alexandra I. , Oliveira Elaine H. T.
Published: December 2023

In MOOCs, identifying urgent comments on discussion forums is an ongoing challenge. Whilst urgent comments require immediate reactions from instructors, to improve interaction with their learners, and potentially reducing drop-out rates—the task is difficult, as truly urgent comments are rare. From a data analytics perspective, this represents a highly unbalanced (sparse) dataset. Here, we aim to automate the urgent comments identification process, based on fine-grained learner modelling—to be used for automatic recommendations to instructors. To showcase and compare these models, we apply them to the first gold standard dataset for Urgent iNstructor InTErvention (UNITE), which we created by labelling FutureLearn MOOC data. We implement both benchmark shallow classifiers and deep learning. Importantly, we not only compare, for the first time for the unbalanced problem, several data balancing techniques, comprising text augmentation, text augmentation with undersampling, and undersampling, but also propose several new pipelines for combining different augmenters for text augmentation. Results show that models with undersampling can predict most urgent cases; and 3X augmentation + undersampling usually attains the best performance. We additionally validate the best models via a generic benchmark dataset (Stanford). As a case study, we showcase how the naïve Bayes with count vector can adaptively support instructors in answering learner questions/comments, potentially saving time or increasing efficiency in supporting learners. Finally, we show that the errors from the classifier mirrors the disagreements between annotators. Thus, our proposed algorithms perform at least as well as a ‘super-diligent’ human instructor (with the time to consider all comments).
The abundance and localization of heat shock proteins (HSP)-60, -70, and -90 in the oviductal ampulla of hamadryas baboon (Papio hamadryas) during the menstrual cycle
Authors: Albrizio Maria , Desantis Salvatore , Lacitignola Luca , Laricchiuta Pietro , Guaricci Antonio Ciro , Cinone Mario
Published: December 2023

The presence of HSPs in female reproductive and their relationship with the steroid hormone fluctuation have been reported in several mammals but not in non-human primates. The present research dealt with the oviductal expression and localization of the more studied HSPs (60, 70, and 90) as well as the morphological changes in the Hamadryas baboon (Papio hamadryas) during the follicular, preovulatory, and luteal phases of the menstrual cycle. Therefore, western blots, histomorphological, and immunohistochemical analyses were carried out. The results of western blot analysis displayed the lowest HSP expression in the luteal phase. The histomorphology showed that the mucosal epithelium consisted of undifferentiated cuboidal cells in follicular and luteal phases and well-distinguishable columnar ciliated and non-ciliated cells during the preovulatory phase. Immunohistochemistry evidenced that the mucosal epithelium contained cytoplasmic and nuclear HSP60, 70, and 90 immunostaining in the follicular and luteal phases. During the preovulatory phase, the non-ciliated cells showed: (i) cytoplasmic HSP60; (ii) nuclear and cytoplasmic HSP90. Ciliated cells showed cytoplasmic and ciliary HSP70 and ciliary HSP90. The stromal cells and myocytes of muscular layer displayed a decreased cytoplasmic HSP60 in the preovulatory phase and nuclear and low cytoplasmic HSP70 throughout the menstrual cycle. Nuclear HSP90 decreased in ampulla stromal cells and the follicular phase myocytes. These findings indicate that the expression pattern of HSP60,70, and 90 is related to the morphofunctional features of the baboon oviductal ampulla during the menstrual cycle and could represent a referent point for further studies in the oviduct of Primates.
Electron Spin Resonance Probe Incorporation into Bioinks Permits Longitudinal Oxygen Imaging of Bioprinted Constructs
Authors: Sarvari Sajad , McGee Duncan , O’Connell Ryan , Tseytlin Oxana , Bobko Andrey A. , Tseytlin Mark
Published: December 2023

Purpose

Bioprinting is an additive manufacturing technology analogous to 3D printing. Instead of plastic or resin, cell-laden hydrogels are used to produce a construct of the intended biological structure. Over time, cells transform this construct into a functioning tissue or organ. The process of printing followed by tissue maturation is referred to as 4D bioprinting. The fourth dimension is temporal. Failure to provide living cells with sufficient amounts of oxygen at any point along the developmental timeline may jeopardize the bioprinting goals. Even transient hypoxia may alter cells' differentiation and proliferation or trigger apoptosis. Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) imaging modality is proposed to permit 4D monitoring of oxygen within bioprinted structures.

Procedures

Lithium octa-n-butoxy-phthalocyanine (LiNc-BuO) probes have been introduced into gelatin methacrylate (GelMA) bioink. GelMA is a cross-linkable hydrogel, and LiNc-BuO is an oxygen-sensitive compound that permits longitudinal oximetric measurements. The effects of the oxygen probe on printability have been evaluated. A digital light processing (DLP) bioprinter was built in the laboratory. Bioprinting protocols have been developed that consider the optical properties of the GelMA/LiNc-BuO composites. Acellular and cell-laden constructs have been printed and imaged. The post-printing effect of residual photoinitiator on oxygen depletion has been investigated.

Results

Models have been successfully printed using a lab-built bioprinter. Rapid scan EPR images reflective of the expected oxygen concentration levels have been acquired. An unreported problem of oxygen depletion in bioprinted constructs by the residual photoinitiator has been documented. EPR imaging is proposed as a control method for its removal. The oxygen consumption rates by HEK293T cells within a bioprinted cylinder have been imaged and quantified.

Conclusions

The feasibility of the cointegration of 4D EPR imaging and 4D bioprinting has been demonstrated. The proof-of-concept experiments, which were conducted using oxygen probes loaded into GelMA, lay the foundation for a broad range of applications, such as bioprinting with many types of bioinks loaded with diverse varieties of molecular spin probes.
Analytical exploration of the Mycenaean glass world via micro-PIXE: a contribution to our knowledge of LBA glass technology
Authors: Kaparou M. , Tsampa K. , Zacharias N. , Karydas A. G.
Published: December 2023

During the Late Bronze Age, the Peloponnese with its palatial centers becomes the heartland of the Mycenaean world, resulting in an idiosyncratic material culture within the archaeological record, with glass constituting undoubtedly an important agent gaining prominence from the 15th cent. BC onwards, at the time when the palaces start rising and turning out to be characteristic to the Mycenaean material culture of the palatial elite. In this paper, the chemical composition of eleven (11) glass beads and relief plaques from three tombs of the necropolis in the area of Palaia Epidavros, Argolid in Greece have been studied to discuss aspects related to the nature of technology and provenance of fifteenth to eleventh century BC dated Mycenaean glass jewelry. The study resulted in the chemical fingerprinting of the collection by means of micro-PIXE succeeding in highlighting interesting technological aspects and assigning a likely origin of the studied samples. Importantly, since part of the assemblage had been studied in the past with the application of SEM–EDS and pXRF, the use of mPIXE enabled an enhanced discussion on glass related topics by comparing the results obtained.
Promotion of Psychological Well-Being and Life Satisfaction in Pre-Adolescents Through Mindfulness Amidst COVID-19
Authors: Magalhães Sofia , Carvalhais Lénia , Oliveira Patrícia , Francisco Cátia , Mourisco Cristina , Leal Teresa , Limpo Teresa
Published: December 2023

Objectives

Mindfulness-based programs (MBPs) seem to be a popular way to develop pre-adolescents’ regulation abilities, psychological health, and life satisfaction, especially in difficult times. However, research into the effects of MBPs and factors influencing their effectiveness is still scarce and mixed. In the interest of understanding how MBPs can effectively be used to enhance pre-adolescents’ regulation abilities, psychological health, and life satisfaction, this study aimed (a) to analyze and compare the effects of two 16-week-MBPs with different implementation dosages and (b) to evaluate the moderating role of participants characteristics on MBP effects.

Method

During the COVID pandemic, we conducted this quasi-experimental study, in which we compared three groups of Portuguese sixth graders (n = 105): daily MBP group (one long plus four short lessons per week), weekly MBP group (one long lesson per week), and a control group receiving socioemotional instruction. In particular, we examined MBP effects on attentional control, emotion regulation, psychological distress, and life satisfaction. Also, we evaluated the moderating role of participants’ gender, age, socioeconomic status, and baseline status on these effects.

Results

In comparison to the other groups, the daily MBP showed lower expressive suppression and stress symptoms as well as higher life satisfaction. Moreover, both MBP groups reported greater cognitive reappraisal than the control group. While the effects of MBPs on emotion regulation were found to be moderated by gender, age, and baseline expressive suppression, no additional moderating effects were observed.

Conclusions

These findings support the perspective that MBPs can serve as a broad preventive strategy, effectively promoting pre-adolescents’ psychological health and life satisfaction during challenging times.

Preregistration

This study is not preregistered.
Breast cancer stem cells generate immune-suppressive T regulatory cells by secreting TGFβ to evade immune-elimination
Authors: Mukherjee Sumon , Chakraborty Sourio , Basak Udit , Pati Subhadip , Dutta Apratim , Dutta Saikat , Roy Dia , Banerjee Shruti , Ray Arpan , Sa Gaurisankar , Das Tanya
Published: December 2023

Cancer stem cells (CSCs), being the primary contributors in tumor initiation, metastasis, and relapse, ought to have seminal roles in evasion of immune surveillance. Tumor-promoting CD4+CD25+FOXP3+ T-regulatory cells (Tregs) have been described to abolish host defense mechanisms by impeding the activities of other immune cells including effector T cells. However, whether CSCs can convert effector T cells to immune-suppressive Treg subset, and if yes, the mechanism underlying CSC-induced Treg generation, are limitedly studied. In this regard, we observed a positive correlation between breast CSC and Treg signature markers in both in-silico and immunohistochemical analyses. Mirroring the conditions during tumor initiation, low number of CSCs could successfully generate CD4+CD25+FOXP3+ Treg cells from infiltrating CD4+ T lymphocytes in a contact-independent manner. Suppressing the proliferation potential as well as IFNγ production capacity of effector T cells, these Treg cells might be inhibiting antitumor immunity, thereby hindering immune-elimination of CSCs during tumor initiation. Furthermore, unlike non-stem cancer cells (NSCCs), CSCs escaped doxorubicin-induced apoptosis, thus constituting major surviving population after three rounds of chemotherapy. These drug-survived CSCs were also able to generate CD4+CD25+FOXP3+ Treg cells. Our search for the underlying mechanism further unveiled the role of CSC-shed immune-suppressive cytokine TGFβ, which was further increased by chemotherapy, in generating tumor Treg cells. In conclusion, during initiation as well as after chemotherapy, when NSCCs are not present in the tumor microenvironment, CSCs, albeit present in low numbers, generate immunosuppressive CD4+CD25+FOXP3+ Treg cells in a contact-independent manner by shedding high levels of immune-suppressive Treg-polarizing cytokine TGFβ, thus escaping immune-elimination and initiating the tumor or causing tumor relapse.
Effect of partial and global shielding on surface-driven phenomena in keyhole mode laser beam welding
Authors: Schmidt Leander , Schricker Klaus , Diegel Christian , Sachs Florian , Bergmann Jean Pierre , Knauer Andrea , Romanus Henry , Requardt Herwig , Chen Yunhui , Rack Alexander
Published: December 2023

Partial shielding by means of local gas supply has proven to be very effective in reducing spatter. Besides the effect of gas-induced dynamic pressure, the shielding of oxygen is also highly relevant for melt pool dynamics and spatter formation due to the growth of oxides and the influence on surface tension. Therefore, this paper addresses the effect of local supplied argon on oxide growth and seam topography during keyhole mode laser beam welding of high-alloy steel AISI 304. To determine the shielding quality, the results are compared to laser beam welding in a global argon atmosphere. The topography of the upper weld seams was analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). An X-ray microanalysis (EDX) in line scan modus was performed to determine and to locate the elements which are covering the specimen surface. The chemical state of the found elements was quantified by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). In a last step, high-speed synchrotron X-ray imaging was performed to separate the effect of the gas-induced pressure and the gas-induced shielding on keyhole geometry. The results show that a local supply of argon contributes to a significant difference in oxide growth, affecting melt pool convection and weld seam geometry. It was further shown that the effect of gas flows at low flow rates is primarily because of oxygen shielding, as no significant difference in keyhole geometry was found by high-speed synchrotron X-ray imaging.