bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Causal relationship between coherent self-awareness and basic psychological needs with psychological well-being: considering the mediating role of mind-awareness in students.
Authors: Abedin Tayebeh , Ghodsi Parvaneh , Taghiloo Sadegh , Davaei Mehdi
Published: February 2024

Background and Aim: appropriate educational facilities, along with the active and motivated minds of learners, will lead to the progress of the country; Therefore, one of the important research priorities in this field is to identify and investigate the effective factors in the mental health of students, which are considered the main components of the educational system. Therefore, the present study was conducted with the aim of investigating the causal relationship between coherent self-awareness and basic psychological needs with psychological well-being with regard to the mediating role of mindfulness in middle school students of Tehran. Method: This descriptive correlational study was conducted on a sample of 352 people, who were selected by multi-stage cluster sampling method from among all secondary school students of the 2nd district of Tehran in the academic year of 2019-1400. Ghorbani et al.'s (2008), basic psychological needs of LaGuardia et al.'s (2000), Rief's psychological well-being (1989) and Freiburg's mindfulness (2006) questionnaires were implemented and the data were collected using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation and structural equation modeling methods in P>0.01 significance level was analyzed by AMOS software and SPSS version 24. Results: The structural model of predicting psychological well-being based on basic psychological needs and self-knowledge, with the mediation of mindfulness in students, had an acceptable and favorable fit (P<0.01); Therefore, it can be concluded that the satisfaction of basic psychological needs and self-knowledge of coherence with the mediation of mindfulness explains psychological well-being in middle school students. Conclusion: Considering the positive and meaningful relationship of psychological well-being with basic psychological needs and coherent self-knowledge and confirming the mediating role of mindfulness in this process and the importance of psychological well-being in nurturing and improving the academic performance of students, paying attention to the level of mindfulness and satisfying the basic psychological needs of students in schools It is very important and it is recommended that schools organize programs in their work program to improve the level of self-awareness of students and to familiarize and apply more concepts such as mindfulness, and to plan educational environments in a way that can meet the basic needs of students.
The Effectiveness of Educational Psychological Program on Solving Jealousy Between Children and Their Favorable Interaction
Authors: Masoumi Shamlou Vida , Hassanzadeh Saeed , Arjamandnia Ali Akbar
Published: February 2024

Background and Aim: The current research was conducted with the aim of the effectiveness of the educational psychological program on solving jealousy between children and their favorable interaction. The statistical population of the research was all the parents of elementary school children along with their children in Kish Island in 2018-2019. Method: The research method was quasi-experimental, 40 parents of elementary school children along with their children were selected by staged cluster sampling method and with a pre-test, post-test and follow-up plan with the control group and then randomly divided into two equal groups of test and control. The experimental group underwent jealousy control training for 8 sessions of 90 minutes and one session every week. The control group did not receive any intervention during this period. The research subjects were evaluated by the jealousy questionnaire (Velizadeh and Azarbaijani, 2010) and the sister-brother relationship questionnaire (Hetherington et al., 1999) in the pre-test, post-test and follow-up stages. Results: Analysis of covariance test was used to analyze the data. The results of the test findings showed that the educational psychological program of jealousy control has improved the resolution of jealousy between children and their favorable interaction, and these results are stable in the two-month follow-up. Conclusion: The training of this program is suggested for couples in counseling centers and in schools.
The place of multicultural education in the social science textbooks of the first secondary school and Iran's upstream documents with an emphasis on the feminist approach.
Authors: Esmaili Elahe , Sadeghi Alireza , Mehrmohammadi Mahmoud
Published: February 2024

Background and Aim: Academic performance of students is an indicator by which their learning and progress is judged and many individual and environmental factors are effective in academic performance. The aim of the present study was to provide a structural model for explaining exam anxiety based on personality traits: evaluating the mediating role of cognitive and metacognitive strategies. Methods: The statistical population of the present study was made up of all female students of the second secondary school in Tehran in the academic year of 2018-19. The sampling method was a multi-stage cluster random method and the sample size was 421 people. The research tools include the five-factor questionnaire of Neo Costa and Makri (1989); Sarason et al.'s test anxiety scale (1956) and Dawson and McEnery's Cognitive and Metacognitive Strategies Questionnaire (2004). The structural equation modeling method was used to analyze the data. Results: The total path coefficient between personality neuroticism factor (p<0.01, β=0.492) and test anxiety is positive and significant at 0.01 level. Also, the total path coefficient between personality openness factor (p<0.01, β=0.186) and test anxiety was negative and significant at 0.01 level. The path coefficient between cognitive strategies and exam anxiety (p<0.05, β=0.196) on the one hand and the path coefficient between metacognitive strategies and exam anxiety (p<0.01, β=0.231) on the other hand The other was negative and significant at 0.05 and 0.01 levels, respectively. Indirect effect of conscientiousness traits (p<0.01, β=0.126), openness (p<0.01, β=0.121) and extraversion (p<0.01, β=0.079) Personality has a negative effect on test anxiety and is significant at the 0.01 level. On the other hand, the indirect effect of neuroticism (p<0.01, β=0.062) on exam anxiety was positive and significant at the 0.01 level. Conclusion: It is concluded that the structural model of the explanation of exam anxiety based on personality characteristics: evaluation of the mediating role of cognitive and metacognitive strategies can be applied.
Designing a role-playing model for schools as the focus of students' educational experiences
Authors: Ezzati Sareh , Sharifian Leila , Toorani Heidar , Barzegar Nader , Esmaeili Zoreh
Published: February 2024

Background and Aim: The most important and main mission of the school are the students, on whom the main and initial investment should be focused. The educational system is faced with the education of a generation that must prepare them for social life, neglecting the conditions and requirements and necessities of social life causes learners to not learn the necessary skills to adapt to society and suffer serious harm; Therefore, the purpose of this research is to design the role-playing model of schools as the center of educational experiences of students. Methods: The research method is mixed (qualitative-quantitative). In the qualitative part, ground theory method with MAXQDA12 software was used to identify the indicators related to role-playing of schools as the focus of students' educational experiences. The statistical population in this research was all the experts in the field of education and school principals, the vice president of education of Tehran city administration, which was conducted with 17 interviews. In a small part, the developmental-applied method was used. The statistical population of the quantitative part included all managers, experts, and educational assistants of government and non-government schools in six education regions (one, six, nine, thirteen, sixteen, and nineteen) and Cochran's formula was used for the sample size. Based on this, 356 people in this section were selected as the sample size and stratified randomly. Results: The results of the qualitative part led to the identification of 167 indicators, 35 components and 6 dimensions in two hidden and visible functions of schools. In the quantitative stage, the impact of underlying factors with a coefficient of 0.957 on strategic strategies and the impact of strategic strategies on the resulting outcomes was 0.953, which were the most influential. Conclusion: Finally, the final model with 167 indicators and 35 components and two functions (hidden and overt) was drawn and for this model philosophy and goals, theoretical foundations, implementation mechanisms, principles of implementation and feedback were designed and evaluated and validated by 30 experts.
Presenting a Value System Pattern of Female' High School of Secondary High School of Tehran City
Authors: Karimi Leila , Abdollahi Mahbubeh , Nazem Fatah
Published: February 2024

Background and Aim: The value systems play an effective role in improving educational systems, including the education system. Therefore, the purpose of this study was investigating and presenting a value system pattern of female' high schools of secondary high school. Methods: The current research was descriptive from correlation type. The research population were the managers and employees of female' high schools of secondary high school of Tehran city in 2020-21 academic years with number 2934 people, which based on Cochran's formula the sample size was estimated to be 196 people, which this number were selected by purposive sampling method. The research tools were included a demographic information form and a researcher-made questionnaire of value system of high schools (60 questions), which the content validity of the questionnaire was confirmed by the opinion of experts, and its total reliability was calculated with using the Cronbach's alpha method 0.94. After collecting the data with the above tools, they were analyzed by exploratory factor analysis in SPSS and Smart PLS software. Results: The findings showed that the value system of female' high schools of secondary high school had 7 components of self-reliance, universalism and benevolence, success, management, power, security and conformity, and tradition and motivation which the factor load of all of them was higher than 0.50, the average variance extracted of all of them was higher than 0.60 and the reliability of all of them with using Cronbach's alpha method was higher than 0.70. Also, the value system of female' high schools had a direct and significant effect on all seven components of self-reliance, universalism and benevolence, success, management, power, security and conformity, and tradition and motivation (P<0.05). Conclusion: The results indicated the effective role of the value system of female' high schools of secondary high school on all seven components of self-reliance, universalism and benevolence, success, management, power, security and conformity, and tradition and motivation. These results have many practical implications for the specialists and planners of the education system, and they based on the results of this study can take an effective step towards improving the value system of high schools.
Investigating the effect of empowering and increasing the awareness of teachers, parents and students on the academic guidance process
Authors: Naseri Feizollah , Eslampanah Maryam , Mosavi Faranak , Kaviani Elham
Published: February 2024

Background and Aim: Academic guidance is a completely scientific issue and in accordance with modern science, and for this reason, it should accept changes in that way, while it can be seen that this manual has not found any changes according to modern science. The purpose of this research was to investigate the effect of empowering and increasing the awareness of teachers, parents and students on the process of academic guidance for the ninth grade to enter the conservatory. Methods: The method of the current research was a quantitative correlation type. The statistical population of the research included all the teachers and experts in the field of educational counseling with 2105 people who, due to the dispersion and extent of the statistical population, non-probability sampling method was used and 325 people were selected as a sample based on the sampling table of Kreges and Morgan. The data collection tool was a researcher-made questionnaire. The validity of the questionnaire was checked and confirmed using confirmatory factor analysis. The reliability of the questionnaire was confirmed using Cronbach's alpha coefficient and composite reliability. In order to analyze the data, confirmatory factor analysis was used with Smart PLS 3 software. Results: The findings showed that the empowerment and knowledge orientation of teachers with a determination coefficient of 0.56, increasing the awareness and sense of responsibility of parents with 0.54, and empowering and increasing the awareness of students with a determination coefficient of 0.51 respectively have the greatest effect on the academic guidance of ninth grade students. to enter the conservatory (P<0.05). Conclusion: Based on the results, it can be concluded that increasing the level of knowledge and awareness of parents and students can be effective in guiding education, so educational and educational planners can focus more on their empowerment and awareness level.
Designing a leadership model in the 21st century for elementary school principals (case study: Tehran)
Authors: Bazhan Soraya , Khorshidi Abbas , Faghiharam Batoul , Barzegar Nader , Ddoshmanziari Esfandiar
Published: February 2024

Background and Aim: Education is related to the development of human abilities. Therefore, educational leaders and managers face many challenges. Therefore, the current research was conducted with the aim of presenting a leadership model in the 21st century for elementary school principals. Method: The research method was applied in terms of purpose and in terms of data, it was exploratory mix (qualitative-quantitative) and in terms of nature, it was systematic foundation (paradigm) data in qualitative dimension and cross-sectional survey in quantitative dimension. The statistical population of the qualitative part included experts in the field of human resources who have specialized doctoral education, and in the quantitative part, in the quantitative part, there were 850 people (468 women and 382 men) of primary education managers in Tehran. The sampling method in the qualitative section was purposefully theoretical and 15 experts were selected to reach theoretical saturation. In the quantitative section, the sample size was 265 (146 women and 119 men) with the help of Morgan's table. After open and axial coding, the measurement tool was prepared in the form of a form and sent to the experts for selective coding and validated, and based on this, a researcher-made questionnaire was designed and distributed among the randomly selected statistical sample. Then the collected data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: After the final approval and prioritization of the experts, the dimensions, components and indicators of the model were drawn, and the said model was again validated by the experts. The findings showed 5 dimensions, 16 components and 111 indicators for the leadership model in the 21st century for elementary school principals. Conclusion: In a summary, the following paradigm model can be deduced: 1- Causal factors: value orientation, future research, human capital, financial resources and psychological security. 2- Background conditions: organizational culture and educational environment. 3- Intervening factors: leadership style, high-hand documents, technological structure and technological skills. 4-Strategies: learning-teaching process, educational supervision, educational evaluation. 5- Consequences: effective school and educated graduates.
Developing a conceptual framework for critical thinking disposition in graduate students: A qualitative study from the point of view of experts
Authors: Ahmadi Fatemeh , Ashayerih Hassan , Namvar Homan
Published: February 2024

Background and Purpose: Critical thinking is a topic that lurks behind most of the questions that are raised about higher education and professional development, Therefore, it is necessary that it should be nurtured during education and the space to acquire it in the educational system should be given attention, so that the graduates, in addition to specialized knowledge, also acquire the ability to reproduce and improve science. The purpose of this study is to investigate the views and experiences of Iranian experts about the influential components in increasing the tendency to critical thinking in higher education students. Research method: The present research has examined and formulated the conceptual framework of tendency to critical thinking in post-graduate students. The type of research is fundamental-theoretical with a qualitative approach. The statistical population of the research is experts in various fields, who are active in the field of critical thinking. The purposeful selection of these experts was done by snowball method, eleven people were selected and interviewed. To collect data, a semi-structured and open-ended interview was used about the factors affecting the tendency to think critically. The interviews were mostly verbal (except for one case where they answered in writing). Done. Findings: The data analysis showed that among the primary indicators obtained from the research background (emotional regulation, boldness level, moral intelligence, and wisdom), two indicators of moral intelligence and wisdom were not approved by the experts, and among the approved variables, and they were given the highest priority. The variable of emotional regulation has. Conclusion: Four variables of questioning spirit, communication skills, boldness and emotional regulation were extracted from the text of the interviews and added to the conceptual framework.
Role and position of Indonesian Medical Disciplinary Honour Council: fair medical dispute resolution
Authors: Khalif Ardi Muhammad , Laksito FX Hastowo Broto , Laurent Andriamalala
Published: February 2024

The main aim of this study is to offer a detailed account of the role and status of the Medical Ethics Council of Indonesia (MKDKI) in promoting the fair resolution of medical disputes in Indonesia. This study is a form of normative legal research. The research findings suggest that MKDKI should be the designated authority for resolving medical disputes since it has the requisite expertise in applying professional discipline in the medical domain. Moreover, MKDKI is a reputable organization assessing whether a physician has breached professional disciplinary norms. The phrase "can" in Article 66 paragraph (1) of Law Number 29 of 2004 governing Medical Practice includes the option to file a complaint against MKDKI or choose not to do so. Legal ambiguity may arise, requiring substituting the term "can" with "must." Consequently, all grievances related to medical matters must be addressed exclusively through MKDKI as an obligatory measure. Conducting a judicial review of Article 66, paragraph (1) of Law Number 29 of 2004 regarding Medical Practice is essential. Furthermore, it is crucial to consider the jurisdiction of the Medical Council of Indonesia (MKDKI) in establishing compensation for parties involved in disputes. For the sake of legal precision for both medical professionals and the general population, every decision made by the MKDKI (Medical Knowledge and Decision-making Institute) must be thoroughly evaluated.
Perancangan Sistem Informasi Pengolahan Data Laporan Pajak Bulanan Berbasis Web Pada Depo Unilever Padang
Authors: Ibnu Alvayet Tengku Arizky , Vezrino Barrichelo Enggar
Published: February 2024

Sistem informasi berbasis komputer kini menjadi suatu hal yang penting bagi pemenuhan kebutuhan masyarakat. Banyak bidang yang telah memanfaatkan sistem informasi berbasis komputer sebagai sarana untuk mempermudah pekerjaan, baik dari kalangan dunia usaha sampai dengan kalangan akademis pendidikan dan hampir dalam segala  bidang  memanfaatkan  komputer  sebagai alat bantu untuk mempermudah pekerjaan. Salah satunya yaitu perhitungan pajak pada sebuah perusahaan dengan sistem informasi dapat dilakukan perhitungan instan, cepat, dan lebih efisien, Hasil dari penelitian berupa aplikasi berbasis web sebagai wadah bagi perusahaan dalam melakukan pengelolaan data wajib pajak, dan mempermudah perusahaan dalam melakukan pengolahaannya.
Students' Attitudes Towards Learning Mathematics: "Too Soft Attitudes-Very Difficult-Boring-In A Good Way"
Authors: Darmayanti Rani , Laila Alfi Rachma Nisfi , Khan Shahid , Fitriyah Imamah Dien , Bausir Umar , Setio Agus , Usmiyatun Usmiyatun
Published: February 2024

Students' attitudes towards learning mathematics: "too soft attitudes-very difficult-bored-in a good way" is an expression that is described because of a problem. Difficulties in understanding mathematical concepts have an impact on poor problem-solving abilities, so it is important to know what causes students to make mistakes and difficulties in learning mathematics. The goal to be achieved through this research is to find learning problems, their causes, and how to overcome them in learning mathematics. The research method of this research is a qualitative research based on a phenomenological approach. This study was conducted at his MTs Darul Hikmah Kedungwaru in Tulungagung. The main data sources are students and teachers of mathematics. Sources of supporting data are the Head of MTs Darul Hikmah Kedungwaru and class teachers. Data collection techniques through observation and interviews. Data analysis techniques are data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion/validation. The results are as follows. (a) student problems: Lack of understanding of the material provided by the teacher, low student motivation to study, lazy to do homework regularly. (b) Educator's Problems: The teacher's inability to master the class, the teacher's inability to master the learning material. Efforts to overcome problems learning mathematics: (a) Efforts to Solve Student Problems: Strive to improve the learning environment Attempt to motivate students by providing suggestions to help them learn more actively Reward students with grades and praise for their learning Remind them to complete their homework (b) Efforts to solve educator problems, namely: Schools conduct assessments, summon teachers who are unable to attend class, and conduct teacher coaching and training, especially math teachers
Penerapan Isyarat Huruf Hijaiyyah dalam meningkatkan kemampuan membaca Al-Qur’an bagi anak tunarungu
Authors: Nurdyansyah Nurdyansyah , Pujiati Nunuk
Published: February 2024

This study intends to describe the implementation of learning techniques "Hijaiyyah letter signs" to improve the reading ability of the Qur'an for children with hearing loss. Hijaiyyah letter signs are very helpful for deaf children who have hearing impairments in improving their ability to read the Qur'an. A descriptive qualitative research approach was used in this study. In this study, observation, interviews, and documentation were used as data collection methods. To ensure the correctness and validity of the data, the analytical method in this study uses data triangulation, namely checking the consistency between the results of interview data, observation data, and documentation data. Before applying Hijaiyyah letter cues, the ability of deaf children to read the Qur'an showed an average value of 52.45, after applying Hijaiyyah letter cues, the ability to read Al-Qur'an showed an average value of 79.85. This leads to the conclusion that the use of Hijaiyyah sign language has a significant positive impact on the ability of deaf children to read the Qur'an.
Implementasi program pendidikan inklusif bagi siswa tunagrahita di Sekolah Dasar Kabupaten Garut Jawa Barat
Authors: Sam Amir Yanti , Cahyani Nurlita , Permana Iqbal
Published: February 2024

Education and the administration of education must be managed well therefore increases  the quality of students. One of the determining and supporting factors is the teacher. The role of teachers in elementary schools is really needed because elementary school students still need support from the environment in their learning process, especially students with special needs in inclusive elementary schools. This research aims to determine the implementation of the inclusive education program as well as school and teacher support activities for ABK students in inclusive education services and the obstacles they face. This research was conducted at three state elementary schools in the city of Garut. The subjects of this research were school principals, teachers and children with special needs. This research method uses qualitative methods through descriptive analysis techniques with case study studies using observation, interviews and document studies. The research results show that the mentally retarded students need special educational services which can develop their potential optimally. The curriculum and learning process need to be specifically designed to suit their needs. Inclusive education is a strategy in education where all students with special needs can receive the same educational services in regular schools. The inhibiting factor in this implementation are (1)  the lack of teachers who have the competence to handle children with mentally retarded in elementary schools, (2) the lack of available facilities and infrastructure, and (3) the lack of coordination and communication that supports the implementation of inclusive schools.
A new record of Eurycarcinus integrifrons De Man, 1879 (Decapoda, Brachyura, Pilumnidae ) from NW of the Persian – Arabian Gulf, Iraq
Authors: Naser Murtada
Published: February 2024

The present paper focuses on the first report of the pilumind crabs Eurycarcinus integrifrons from the NW of the Persian – Arabian Gulf, Iraq, at the muddy area of Fao region. The morphological features and distribution information are considered.
A new record of Dorippe quadridens (Fabricius, 1793) (Decapoda, Brachyura, Dorippidae) from the north western Persian-Arabian Gulf, Iraq
Authors: Yasser Amaal , Naser Murtada
Published: February 2024

In the present note the crab Dorippe quadridens is reported for first time from the north western Persian-Arabian Gulf, Iraq. This species is widely distributed in the Persian-Arabian Gulf. Details of the morphological characters of the species are given.
Phytochemical screening, Antioxidative and anti-α-amylase properties of endophytic fungal extracts isolated from Ocimum basilicum
Authors: Abdel-Rahman Wedad , Abdel-Motaal Fatma , El-Zayat Soad , El-Sayed Magdi
Published: February 2024

Ocimum basilicum belongs to the family Lamiaceae which is known to have anticancer and many other bioactivities. Phoma eupyrena, Emericella nidulans lata and Chaetomium olivaccium were isolated from the different organs of the Basil plant. Root, stem and leaf’s endophytes extracts of this plant, were tested for phytochemical constituents, antioxidant and anti- α-amylase activities. Phytochemical screening of fungal endophyte extracts revealed the presence of alkaloids, steroids, terpenoids and saponins.  Quantitative determination of total phenolics, total flavonoids and various in vitro antioxidant  activities (DPPH, H2O2, α-Amylase,  reducing power and antioxidant capacity) of methanolic extract was carried out using colorimetric methods.  The results of this study displayed that antioxidant activities differ significantly in the endophyte’s extract of the plant. The flavonoid content appeared in phoma extract only. The  IC50 values  for  DPPH  radical scavenging was in the order of  PHE > EME >  CHE, the values  were  63.3% >  56.2% > 26.8%  at 100µg/ml, respectively.  The scavenging activity for hydrogen peroxide of various extracts  was in the order of PHE  > CHE > EME respectively. The highest inhibitory activity of α-amylase was in PHE followed by EME then CHE. Finally, we concluded that Ocimum basilium has strong scavenging activity and phytochemical contents, and confirm this plant may be good as antitumor and also is very useful for the management of other diseases.
Modeling resource allocation strategies for insecticide-treated bed nets to achieve malaria eradication
Authors: Schmit Nora , Topazian Hillary M , Pianella Matteo , Charles Giovanni D , Winskill Peter , White Michael T , Hauck Katharina , Ghani Azra C
Published: February 2024

Large reductions in the global malaria burden have been achieved, but plateauing funding poses a challenge for progressing towards the ultimate goal of malaria eradication. Using previously published mathematical models of Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax transmission incorporating insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) as an illustrative intervention, we sought to identify the global funding allocation that maximized impact under defined objectives and across a range of global funding budgets. The optimal strategy for case reduction mirrored an allocation framework that prioritizes funding for high-transmission settings, resulting in total case reductions of 76% and 66% at intermediate budget levels, respectively. Allocation strategies that had the greatest impact on case reductions were associated with lesser near-term impacts on the global population at risk. The optimal funding distribution prioritized high ITN coverage in high-transmission settings endemic for P. falciparum only, while maintaining lower levels in low-transmission settings. However, at high budgets, 62% of funding was targeted to low-transmission settings co-endemic for P. falciparum and P. vivax. These results support current global strategies to prioritize funding to high-burden P. falciparum-endemic settings in sub-Saharan Africa to minimize clinical malaria burden and progress towards elimination, but highlight a trade-off with ‘shrinking the map’ through a focus on near-elimination settings and addressing the burden of P. vivax.
The genetic and dietary landscape of the muscle insulin signalling network
Authors: van Gerwen Julian , Masson Stewart WC , Cutler Harry B , Vegas Alexis Diaz , Potter Meg , Stöckli Jacqueline , Madsen Søren , Nelson Marin E , Humphrey Sean J , James David E
Published: February 2024

Metabolic disease is caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors, yet few studies have examined how these factors influence signal transduction, a key mediator of metabolism. Using mass spectrometry-based phosphoproteomics, we quantified 23,126 phosphosites in skeletal muscle of five genetically distinct mouse strains in two dietary environments, with and without acute in vivo insulin stimulation. Almost half of the insulin-regulated phosphoproteome was modified by genetic background on an ordinary diet, and high-fat high-sugar feeding affected insulin signalling in a strain-dependent manner. Our data revealed coregulated subnetworks within the insulin signalling pathway, expanding our understanding of the pathway’s organisation. Furthermore, associating diverse signalling responses with insulin-stimulated glucose uptake uncovered regulators of muscle insulin responsiveness, including the regulatory phosphosite S469 on Pfkfb2, a key activator of glycolysis. Finally, we confirmed the role of glycolysis in modulating insulin action in insulin resistance. Our results underscore the significance of genetics in shaping global signalling responses and their adaptability to environmental changes, emphasising the utility of studying biological diversity with phosphoproteomics to discover key regulatory mechanisms of complex traits.
Novel sterol binding domains in bacteria
Authors: Zhai Liting , Bonds Amber C , Smith Clyde A , Oo Hannah , Chou Jonathan Chiu-Chun , Welander Paula V , Dassama Laura MK
Published: February 2024

Sterol lipids are widely present in eukaryotes and play essential roles in signaling and modulating membrane fluidity. Although rare, some bacteria also produce sterols, but their function in bacteria is not known. Moreover, many more species, including pathogens and commensal microbes, acquire or modify sterols from eukaryotic hosts through poorly understood molecular mechanisms. The aerobic methanotroph Methylococcus capsulatus was the first bacterium shown to synthesize sterols, producing a mixture of C-4 methylated sterols that are distinct from those observed in eukaryotes. C-4 methylated sterols are synthesized in the cytosol and localized to the outer membrane, suggesting that a bacterial sterol transport machinery exists. Until now, the identity of such machinery remained a mystery. In this study, we identified three novel proteins that may be the first examples of transporters for bacterial sterol lipids. The proteins, which all belong to well-studied families of bacterial metabolite transporters, are predicted to reside in the inner membrane, periplasm, and outer membrane of M. capsulatus, and may work as a conduit to move modified sterols to the outer membrane. Quantitative analysis of ligand binding revealed their remarkable specificity for 4-methylsterols, and crystallographic structures coupled with docking and molecular dynamics simulations revealed the structural bases for substrate binding by two of the putative transporters. Their striking structural divergence from eukaryotic sterol transporters signals that they form a distinct sterol transport system within the bacterial domain. Finally, bioinformatics revealed the widespread presence of similar transporters in bacterial genomes, including in some pathogens that use host sterol lipids to construct their cell envelopes. The unique folds of these bacterial sterol binding proteins should now guide the discovery of other proteins that handle this essential metabolite.
RIM-BP2 regulates Ca2+ channel abundance and neurotransmitter release at hippocampal mossy fiber terminals
Authors: Miyano Rinako , Sakamoto Hirokazu , Hirose Kenzo , Sakaba Takeshi
Published: February 2024

Synaptic vesicles dock and fuse at the presynaptic active zone (AZ), the specialized site for transmitter release. AZ proteins play multiple roles such as recruitment of Ca2+ channels as well as synaptic vesicle docking, priming, and fusion. However, the precise role of each AZ protein type remains unknown. In order to dissect the role of RIM-BP2 at mammalian cortical synapses having low release probability, we applied direct electrophysiological recording and super-resolution imaging to hippocampal mossy fiber terminals of RIM-BP2 knockout (KO) mice. By using direct presynaptic recording, we found the reduced Ca2+ currents. The measurements of excitatory postsynaptic currents (EPSCs) and presynaptic capacitance suggested that the initial release probability was lowered because of the reduced Ca2+ influx and impaired fusion competence in RIM-BP2 KO. Nevertheless, larger Ca2+ influx restored release partially. Consistent with presynaptic recording, STED microscopy suggested less abundance of P/Q-type Ca2+ channels at AZs deficient in RIM-BP2. Our results suggest that the RIM-BP2 regulates both Ca2+ channel abundance and transmitter release at mossy fiber synapses.
Student teachers' attitudes to materials in the contexts of crafting and consuming
Authors: Kröger Tarja , Turunen Virpi , Kaipainen Minna
Published: February 2024

The purpose of this study was to explore the kinds of attitudes student teachers have towards materials in the contexts of crafting and consumption. The practical aim of the study was to encourage students to explore the materials of the crafts they make and the products they buy. The data were collected via semi-structured inquiries conducted as part of the course Experimental Textile Crafts. In addition to the questions, the elicitation method was used, that is, the students were asked to choose one of their own craft objects and one purchased object and take photographs of them. The final sample consisted of 39 students. Data were analysed using thematic analysis focusing on affective, conative and cognitive components. The findings of the study highlighted three different ideal types of students: (1) Superficially Oriented, (2) Safely Mediocre and (3) Conscious. Superficially Oriented Students have little interest in materials. Safely Mediocre students did express interest in materials but ended up using familiar materials in both crafting and consumption. Conscious students expressed sustainability concerns, which crossed a wide range of topics from valorising waste to naturalness in materials. The results can be valuable for developing craft teacher education and for future research.Keywords: attitudes, crafting, consuming, ideal types, materiality, materials
In vivo evaluation of a polyester and fiberglass composite intramedullary nail for femoral osteosynthesis in calves
Authors: Silva Rocha Junior Sérgio , Corrêa Mayara G. , Dias Lucas A. , Antunes de Lima Marcos Paulo , Beier Suzane L. , Paolucci Leopoldo , Alberto do Lago Luiz , Las Casas Estevam B. , Faleiros Rafael R.
Published: February 2024

The objective of this study was to test a composite of polyester resin and fiberglass in the form of an intramedullary nail for osteosynthesis of femoral fractures in calves. The methodology was established based on a previous study that used a bovine femur finite element model to simulate fractures, which were then stabilized by the same nails as proposed in this study. General anesthesia was induced in six calves followed by fracture creation via an oblique incision in the middle third of the femoral diaphysis, and osteosynthesis was immediately performed by retrograde insertion of the composite nail. Locking was achieved by drilling the bone and nail without using a jig and introducing two stainless steel screws proximal and two distal to the fracture line. Five of the six calves achieved complete fracture healing after 60 days. No signs of incompatibility or toxicity of the composite were observed. However, limitations were observed during the surgery, such as difficulty in drilling the nail and trimming the remainder portion of the nail that extended beyond the length of the bone. Small fragments produced by these maneuvers were considered irritating to soft tissues during the postoperative period. It was also found that small cracks in the nail tended to propagate in the form of longitudinal fractures. In conclusion, an intramedullary nail made of polyester resin and fiberglass (a low-cost and easy-to-acquire material) was considered biocompatible and capable of allowing bone healing of femoral fractures in young cattle. However, the development of solutions for the reported limitations is crucial prior to recommending the proposed composite for clinical use.
Further development of the reflective practice questionnaire
Authors: Rogers Shane L. , Van Winkle Lon , Michels Nicole , Lucas Cherie , Ziada Hassan , Da Silva Eduardo Jorge , Jotangia Amit , Gabrielsson Sebastian , Gustafsson Silje , Priddis Lynn
Published: February 2024

Background

This article provides an update of the Reflective Practice Questionnaire (RPQ). The original RPQ consisted of 40-items with 10-sub-scales. In this article, the RPQ is streamlined into a 10-item single reflective practice construct, and a 30-item extended version that includes additional sub-scales of confidence, uncertainty/stress, and work satisfaction.

Methods

A total of 501 university students filled out an online questionnaire that contained the original Reflective Practice Questionnaire, and two general measures of reflection: The Self-Reflection and Insight Scale, and the Rumination-Reflection Questionnaire.

Results

Based on factor analysis, the RPQ was streamlined into a brief 10-item version, and an extended 30-item version. Small positive correlations were found between the RPQ reflective practice measure and the two measures of general reflection, providing discriminant validity evidence for the RPQ. The RPQ was found to be sensitive to differences among industries, whereas the general measures of reflection were not. Average reflective practice scores were higher for health and education industries compared to retail and food/accommodation industries.
3D bioprinting in bioremediation: a comprehensive review of principles, applications, and future directions
Authors: Finny Abraham Samuel
Published: February 2024

Bioremediation is experiencing a paradigm shift by integrating three-dimensional (3D) bioprinting. This transformative approach augments the precision and versatility of engineering with the functional capabilities of material science to create environmental restoration strategies. This comprehensive review elucidates the foundational principles of 3D bioprinting technology for bioremediation, its current applications in bioremediation, and the prospective avenues for future research and technological evolution, emphasizing the intersection of additive manufacturing, functionalized biosystems, and environmental remediation; this review delineates how 3D bioprinting can tailor bioremediation apparatus to maximize pollutant degradation and removal. Innovations in biofabrication have yielded bio-based and biodegradable materials conducive to microbial proliferation and pollutant sequestration, thereby addressing contamination and adhering to sustainability precepts. The review presents an in-depth analysis of the application of 3D bioprinted constructs in enhancing bioremediation efforts, exemplifying the synergy between biological systems and engineered solutions. Concurrently, the review critically addresses the inherent challenges of incorporating 3D bioprinted materials into diverse ecological settings, including assessing their environmental impact, durability, and integration into large-scale bioremediation projects. Future perspectives discussed encompass the exploration of novel biocompatible materials, the automation of bioremediation, and the convergence of 3D bioprinting with cutting-edge fields such as nanotechnology and other emerging fields. This article posits 3D bioprinting as a cornerstone of next-generation bioremediation practices, offering scalable, customizable, and potentially greener solutions for reclaiming contaminated environments. Through this review, stakeholders in environmental science, engineering, and technology are provided with a critical appraisal of the current state of 3D bioprinting in bioremediation and its potential to drive forward the efficacy of environmental management practices.
Correlation between Cerebral Microbleeds and White Matter Changes on MRI using Microbleed Anatomical Rating and Fazekas Scales: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Gode Samanvitha , Kalegowda Anand
Published: February 2024

Introduction: Cerebral Microbleeds (CMBs) are small perivascular haemosiderin deposits in the brain that indicate bleeding events. The location of CMBs can provide insights into their underlying causes. CMBs found in peripheral lobar locations are often associated with cerebral amyloid angiopathy, while those occurring in deeper brain regions are more likely linked to hypertensive arteriopathy. White matter changes, known as Leukoaraiosis, have been linked to adverse cognitive functions, share risk factors with hypertension and microbleeds, and are associated with the severity of CMBs. Aim: To determine the correlation between CMBs and white matter changes on Magnetic Resonance Imagning (MRI) using the Microbleed Anatomical Rating Scale (MARS) and Fazekas scales. Materials and Methods: An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Radiodiagnosis, MS Ramaiah Hospitals, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India between November 2019 and June 2021, involving 65 subjects who underwent MRI brain scans at a tertiary care institute and were found to have microbleeds. Brain MRIs were performed using a 1.5 Tesla MRI Scanning Unit. Microbleeds were graded using the MARS, while white matter changes were graded using the Fazekas scale. The Chi-square test was employed to assess the significance of categorical data, and Spearman’s correlation was used to determine the correlation between MARS and Fazekas scale variables. Results: The subjects had a mean age range of 61 to 70 years, with a male-to-female ratio of 2:1. There was a significant correlation between MARS grade and Fazekas scale (p<0.001) with a correlation coefficient (r-value) of 1. The most commonly associated stroke subtype was lacunar infarct. Conclusion: There is a significant correlation between Leukoaraiosis (LA) and CMBs, indicating the end results of small vessel ischaemia and bleeding.
A Case Series of May-Thurner Syndrome: An Anatomical Variation Leading to a Life-threatening Condition
Authors: Naveen D , Raj DR Vishwaprem , Mallikarjunappa B , Harshith CS , Bhoovanahalli Suhas
Published: February 2024

May-Thurner syndrome is a rare clinical condition resulting from anatomical variation, where patients present with unilateral left lower limb swelling due to a thrombus in the left common iliac vein. This occurs as a result of compression of the left common iliac vein by the right common iliac artery. The condition is more commonly observed in females and can lead to life-threatening pulmonary thromboembolism. Early diagnosis and interventional management, such as stenting and placement of an Inferior Vena Cava (IVC) filter, can help prevent pulmonary embolism. In the present case series, four patients were included. Two of them presented with the classical clinical history of unilateral left lower limb oedema and calf muscle tenderness. One of these patients underwent stenting of the left common iliac vein and placement of an IVC filter. In the other two patients, abdominal complaints prompted the performance of Multidetected Computed Tomography (MDCT), and incidentally, left common iliac vein thrombus secondary to May-Thurner syndrome was detected.
The Wage Penalty for Motherhood in Spain (2009-2017): The Role of the Male Partner’s Job Characteristic
Authors:   Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Herrarte Ainhoa , Urcelay Paloma ,   Banco de España
Published: February 2024

Exploiting microdata from the Living Conditions Survey, and applying the coarsened exact matching algorithm to select a treatment and a control group of comparable women, we analyse the motherhood wage penalty in Spain from 2009 to 2017, with special attention to the effect of the male partner’s job characteristics. We find that mothers of children 0-3 years old suffered a penalty in their hourly wages of around 4.2%, which significantly increased when their partner was self-employed. Moreover, we only detect a wage penalty for high-educated women and for those who work in medium and large firms.
Does Competition Tame the Leviathan? A Case of Earmarked Spending for Transportation
Authors:   Soongsil University, Shon Jongmin
Published: February 2024

Extant studies have explored the Leviathan hypothesis whether competition across governments enhances efficiency. This study empirically estimates the Leviathan hypothesis in the context of earmarked spending on transportation and competition in California. This study first obtains an efficiency score for empirical procedures employing the Malmquist productivity index and further the Tobit regression model to examine the Leviathan hypothesis. The findings provide evidence that competition of local (option) sales tax improves efficiency in transportation spending. The findings verify that efficiency becomes lower in a county that levies local (option) sales tax earmarked for transportation because transportation spending increases.