bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of 1,10-phenanthroline-based hydroxamate derivative as dual histone deacetylases/ribonucleotide reductase inhibitor with antitumor activities
Authors: Shetty Manasa Gangadhar , Pai Padmini , Dey Bipasa , Satyamoorthy Kapaettu , Shil Suranjan , Nayak Usha Yogendra , T Ashwini , Sundara Babitha Kampa
Published: April 2024

Background

Aberrant expression of histone deacetylases (HDACs) and ribonucleotide reductase (RR) enzymes are commonly observed in various cancers. Researchers are focusing on these enzymes in cancer studies with the aim of developing effective chemotherapeutic drugs for cancer treatment. Targeting both HDAC and RR simultaneously with a dual HDAC/RR inhibitor has exhibited enhanced effectiveness compared to monotherapy in cancer treatment, making it a promising strategy.

Objectives

The objective of the study is to synthesize and assess the anti-cancer properties of a 1,10-phenanthroline-based hydroxamate derivative, characterizing it as a novel dual HDAC/RR inhibitor.

Methods

The N1-hydroxy-N8-(1,10-phenanthrolin-5-yl)octanediamide (PA), a 1,10-phenanthroline-based hydroxamate derivative, was synthesized and structurally characterized. The compound was subjected to in vitro assessments of its anti-cancer, HDAC, and RR inhibitory activities. In silico docking and molecular dynamics simulations were further studied to explore its interactions with HDACs and RRM2.

Results

The structurally confirmed PA exhibited antiproliferative activity in SiHa cells with an IC50 of 16.43 μM. It displayed potent inhibitory activity against HDAC and RR with IC50 values of 10.80 μM and 9.34 μM, respectively. Co-inhibition of HDAC and RR resulted in apoptosis-induced cell death in SiHa cells, mediated by the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). In silico docking studies demonstrated that PA can effectively bind to the active sites of HDAC isoforms and RRM2. Furthermore, PA demonstrated a more favorable interaction with HDAC7, displaying a docking score of -9.633 kcal/mol, as compared to the standard HDAC inhibitor suberoylanilide hydroxamic acid (SAHA), which exhibited a docking score of -8.244 kcal/mol against HDAC7.

Conclusion

The present study emphasizes the prospect of designing a potential 1,10-phenanthroline hydroxamic acid derivative as a novel dual HDAC and RR-inhibiting anti-cancer molecule.

Graphical Abstract
Influence of Polymer Surface Roughness on the Fractions of Transmitted, Reflected and Absorbed Energy in Operation of Laser Transmission Welding
Authors: Genna Silvio , Leone Claudio , Moretti Patrizia , Venettacci Simone
Published: April 2024

The study of energy fractions plays a fundamental role in laser joining operations: from their knowledge, it is possible to calculate the amount of laser beam energy that is effectively available during the formation of chemical and physical bonds, and how much energy is dissipated. This study examines semi-crystalline polymers of polyamide 6.6 (PA), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), and polypropylene (PP), semitransparent to light radiation, with the aim of studying the influence of surface roughness on the distribution of energy fractions, and in particular on the reflection portion. For this purpose, polymeric samples with different surface finishing were prepared and characterized by profilometric analysis. Subsequently, an experimental setup was implemented to directly measure the transmitted ratio, obtaining the reflected energy fraction from the Beer-Lambert law, and the absorbed ratio by energy balance. The results showed a decrease in the power transmitted by polymers subjected to surface treatment, due to an increase in the reflection fraction, a phenomenon particularly evident for PET, for which the reflection share increased from ~ 0.5% to ~ 15.3%, following P240 treatment. A lower influence was verified for PA and especially PTFE, due to a lower influence of the treatment on surface morphology. On the basis of the experimental results, it is hypothesised that roughening the lower section of the irradiated polymer could allow an increase in the total internal reflection fraction, favouring the joint at the interface point.

Graphical Abstract
Learning to Learn Independently: Guiding Students to Develop Self-Directed Learning Skills During Medical Student Independent Research Projects—Findings from an Australian University
Authors: Uebel Kerry , Carland Jane Ellen , Iqbal Maha Pervaz , Smith Greg , Nathan Sally
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Most medical schools offer students the opportunity to conduct independent research projects in order to learn about evidence-based medicine. This study aimed to explore the experience of students, graduates, and supervisors during an independent research project through the lens of self-directed learning.

Methods

Students and recent graduates were asked to complete an anonymous survey about their experiences. Semi-structured interviews were also conducted with a purposeful sample of 11 students, 14 graduates, and 25 supervisors. Interviews were recorded and transcribed. An inductive thematic analysis was conducted and themes were refined through the lens of self-directed learning.

Results

Most participants agreed that the independent research project could enable students to develop valuable self-directed learning skills. Participants commented on the importance of the research mentor, faculty support structures, and membership of a research team. Participants who were not well supported described feeling distressed and isolated.

Discussion

Medical student involvement in independent research projects can develop self-directed learning skills in the presence of a one-to-one mentoring relationship with a research supervisor, structured guidelines and support from the faculty, and membership of a research team. The development of self-directed learning skills should be part of the learning outcomes of any independent student research project.
Medical Laboratory Science Education in Australia: An Academic Review
Authors: Donkin Rebecca , Gusset Rebecca
Published: April 2024

Medical Laboratory Scientists contribute to pathology organizations to provide medical testing for the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disease. To meet patient medical testing demands in Australia, an employment projection of moderate growth by 2026 in Medical Laboratory Scientists is predicted. This requires an experienced academic workforce that is competent in Medical Laboratory Science (MLS) teaching supported by MLS research to graduate skilled MLS students to fill this void. However, there is little known about the academics that teach undergraduate MLS and whether there is a shortage of experienced educators and graduates. A mixed-method descriptive cross-sectional study design was used to identify 125 MLS academics to recruit and collect quantitative and qualitative survey data from 2019 to 2021. Over half of the survey respondents had never worked as a Medical Laboratory Scientist, and less than a third had an undergraduate degree in MLS. The breadth and depth of academic teaching and research interest were wide and covered both MLS and non-MLS themes. The retention of MLS academics remained stable. There was a meagre growth in new appointments over 3 years which was likely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic which also impacted student enrolment and graduate data. It is unclear from these results if the 2026 predicted growth will be achievable.
A serious game for raising air pollution perception in children
Authors: Relvas Tiago , Mariano Pedro , Almeida Susana Marta , Santana Pedro
Published: April 2024

Concerns about air pollution have increased recently. Currently, 94% of the world population face air pollution levels considered unsafe by the World Health Organization, which tells us that efforts are needed to raise people’s awareness about air pollution. The use of serious games and gamification of interactive applications have raised people’s perception. This work presents Problems in the Air, a game developed in Unity about air pollution, in which the player’s goal is to control a character that inhabits an imaginary city tasked to monitor indoor and outdoor air pollution with sensors deployed across several city zones. While playing, children are expected to learn the possible causes of pollution in each zone and, this way, the game attempts to promote pro-environmental behaviors. This game allows educators to configure the problems that the player has to solve. Customisation is a desired feature in existing serious games as teachers often need to tailor this type of tools to their students. Pre- and post-surveys about air pollution were elaborated to evaluate air pollution perception of twenty students of an elementary school before and after playing the game, with results showing some significant positive effects. A System Usability Scale questionnaire was also performed and we obtained an acceptable mean value of 75, out of 100.
Manipulating Crystal Growth and Secondary Phase PbI2 to Enable Efficient and Stable Perovskite Solar Cells with Natural Additives
Authors: Wang Yirong , Cheng Yaohui , Yin Chunchun , Zhang Jinming , You Jingxuan , Wang Jizheng , Wang Jinfeng , Zhang Jun
Published: April 2024

In perovskite solar cells (PSCs), the inherent defects of perovskite film and the random distribution of excess lead iodide (PbI2) prevent the improvement of efficiency and stability. Herein, natural cellulose is used as the raw material to design a series of cellulose derivatives for perovskite crystallization engineering. The cationic cellulose derivative C-Im-CN with cyano-imidazolium (Im-CN) cation and chloride anion prominently promotes the crystallization process, grain growth, and directional orientation of perovskite. Meanwhile, excess PbI2 is transferred to the surface of perovskite grains or formed plate-like crystallites in local domains. These effects result in suppressing defect formation, decreasing grain boundaries, enhancing carrier extraction, inhibiting non-radiative recombination, and dramatically prolonging carrier lifetimes. Thus, the PSCs exhibit a high power conversion efficiency of 24.71%. Moreover, C-Im-CN has multiple interaction sites and polymer skeleton, so the unencapsulated PSCs maintain above 91.3% of their initial efficiencies after 3000 h of continuous operation in a conventional air atmosphere and have good stability under high humidity conditions. The utilization of biopolymers with excellent structure-designability to manage the perovskite opens a state-of-the-art avenue for manufacturing and improving PSCs."Image missing"
Dual-Defect Engineering Strategy Enables High-Durability Rechargeable Magnesium-Metal Batteries
Authors: Chen Fuyu , Zhao Bai-Qing , Huang Kaifeng , Ma Xiu-Fen , Li Hong-Yi , Zhang Xie , Diao Jiang , Yue Jili , Huang Guangsheng , Wang Jingfeng , Pan Fusheng
Published: April 2024

Rechargeable magnesium-metal batteries (RMMBs) are promising next-generation secondary batteries; however, their development is inhibited by the low capacity and short cycle lifespan of cathodes. Although various strategies have been devised to enhance the Mg2+ migration kinetics and structural stability of cathodes, they fail to improve electronic conductivity, rendering the cathodes incompatible with magnesium-metal anodes. Herein, we propose a dual-defect engineering strategy, namely, the incorporation of Mg2+ pre-intercalation defect (P-Mgd) and oxygen defect (Od), to simultaneously improve the Mg2+ migration kinetics, structural stability, and electronic conductivity of the cathodes of RMMBs. Using lamellar V2O5·nH2O as a demo cathode material, we prepare a cathode comprising Mg0.07V2O5·1.4H2O nanobelts composited with reduced graphene oxide (MVOH/rGO) with P-Mgd and Od. The Od enlarges interlayer spacing, accelerates Mg2+ migration kinetics, and prevents structural collapse, while the P-Mgd stabilizes the lamellar structure and increases electronic conductivity. Consequently, the MVOH/rGO cathode exhibits a high capacity of 197 mAh g−1, and the developed Mg foil//MVOH/rGO full cell demonstrates an incredible lifespan of 850 cycles at 0.1 A g−1, capable of powering a light-emitting diode. The proposed dual-defect engineering strategy provides new insights into developing high-durability, high-capacity cathodes, advancing the practical application of RMMBs, and other new secondary batteries.
Approximate inference for longitudinal mechanistic HIV contact network
Authors: Smiley Octavious , Hoffmann Till , Onnela Jukka-Pekka
Published: April 2024

Network models are increasingly used to study infectious disease spread. Exponential Random Graph models have a history in this area, with scalable inference methods now available. An alternative approach uses mechanistic network models. Mechanistic network models directly capture individual behaviors, making them suitable for studying sexually transmitted diseases. Combining mechanistic models with Approximate Bayesian Computation allows flexible modeling using domain-specific interaction rules among agents, avoiding network model oversimplifications. These models are ideal for longitudinal settings as they explicitly incorporate network evolution over time. We implemented a discrete-time version of a previously published continuous-time model of evolving contact networks for men who have sex with men and proposed an ABC-based approximate inference scheme for it. As expected, we found that a two-wave longitudinal study design improves the accuracy of inference compared to a cross-sectional design. However, the gains in precision in collecting data twice, up to 18%, depend on the spacing of the two waves and are sensitive to the choice of summary statistics. In addition to methodological developments, our results inform the design of future longitudinal network studies in sexually transmitted diseases, specifically in terms of what data to collect from participants and when to do so.
A generalized eigenvector centrality for multilayer networks with inter-layer constraints on adjacent node importance
Authors: Frost H. Robert
Published: April 2024

We present a novel approach for computing a variant of eigenvector centrality for multilayer networks with inter-layer constraints on node importance. Specifically, we consider a multilayer network defined by multiple edge-weighted, potentially directed, graphs over the same set of nodes with each graph representing one layer of the network and no inter-layer edges. As in the standard eigenvector centrality construction, the importance of each node in a given layer is based on the weighted sum of the importance of adjacent nodes in that same layer. Unlike standard eigenvector centrality, we assume that the adjacency relationship and the importance of adjacent nodes may be based on distinct layers. Importantly, this type of centrality constraint is only partially supported by existing frameworks for multilayer eigenvector centrality that use edges between nodes in different layers to capture inter-layer dependencies. For our model, constrained, layer-specific eigenvector centrality values are defined by a system of independent eigenvalue problems and dependent pseudo-eigenvalue problems, whose solution can be efficiently realized using an interleaved power iteration algorithm. We refer to this model, and the associated algorithm, as the Constrained Multilayer Centrality (CMLC) method. The characteristics of this approach, and of standard techniques based on inter-layer edges, are demonstrated on both a simple multilayer network and on a range of random graph models. An R package implementing the CMLC method along with example vignettes is available at https://hrfrost.host.dartmouth.edu/CMLC/.
Evaluating the properties of deinking paper sludge from the Mediterranean area for recycling in local areas as a soil amendment and to enhance growth substrates
Authors: Bretzel Francesca , Tassi Eliana L. , Rosellini Irene , Marouani Emna , Khouaja Asma , Koubaa Ahmed
Published: April 2024

Recycling of paper generates large quantities of paper sludge that is rich in organic matter and can be exploited to counteract organic matter loss in agricultural soils, especially in some geographical areas, such as the Mediterranean. In order for deinking paper sludge (DPS) to be recycled, chemical and physical characterizations are required along with an analysis of possible contaminants. DPS from Italy and Tunisia, resulting from various deinking processes, were analyzed and compared in terms of their chemical properties (pH, OM, total N, C/N ratio, mineral nutrients, and trace metals), surface chemistry [diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform (DRIFT) spectroscopy and Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy], and thermal stability [thermogravimetric analysis (TGA)]. The aim was to improve their use as amendments in soils or growth substrates. Elemental analysis revealed higher carbon concentrations in the Tunisian DPS and similar nitrogen contents, high mineral nutrient levels, and potentially toxic trace element levels below the limits allowed for soil amendment. No evidence was found for the presence of organic pollutants, pathogens, or toxic heavy metals. Surface chemical analysis revealed comparable materials rich in aromatic, phenolic, aliphatic, and polysaccharide structures along with clay minerals and carbonates. The thermal analysis revealed similar decomposition temperatures for the organic matter. Practical implications of the results are discussed, highlighting the similar properties of sludge following ink removal by different processes and the need to integrate the N content in order to be able to employ sludge as an amendment in soil and growing media. Given the similarity of the compositions of the materials, appropriate DPS management is key to improving soil fertility, reducing paper waste disposal, and implementing a circular economy in the Mediterranean, where climate change is having a significant impact.
Prioritized but declining: an analysis of student participation in Asian languages courses in secondary school 2001–2021
Authors: Field Louisa , Wilson Rachel , Cruickshank Ken
Published: April 2024

The need for proficiency in Asian languages has been identified as vital for Australia’s regional prosperity, but in the absence of a national language policy and national data collection, languages study has continued to deteriorate at alarming levels. This article analyses recent data for trends in participation in ‘priority’ Asian languages, Chinese, Japanese, Indonesian, and Korean NSW High School Certificate (HSC) courses from 2001–2021. In 1994, these languages were first identified by the government as “priority” Asian languages and of considerable importance for Australia’s future prosperity. This study analyses disaggregated HSC data to examine trends in individual languages and courses. The overall finding in this study is that despite the considerable funding, there has been no significant improvement in Beginner, Continuers, In-context, or Literature courses: 2001 had 4.25% of HSC students studying one of the priority Asian languages, but in 2021 this figure dropped to 3.43%. This detailed analysis reveals possible reasons for this and explores the role of community language schools (CLS) in supporting the study of priority Asian languages. This study finds that disaggregated state-level and local data analysis is essential to inform national policy evaluation and future policy planning. Without consistent data collection, policy evaluation, and the development of evidence-based approaches to language education, Australian language education will continue to flounder.
Curriculum for living structural crises towards socially just futures: bringing diverse funds of knowledge into participatory-democratic action around lifeworld problems that matter
Authors: Zipin Lew
Published: April 2024

As crises unsettle lives across the globe, growing numbers of people, in diverse situations, encounter social and planetary futures in peril. Harder to grasp is how historical structures of unequal power underpin those perils. Building capacities to comprehend the lived effects of structural injustices, and proact to transform them, are ethical challenges for schooling, which this paper takes up. I initially focus not on school curriculum but ‘populist curriculum’: ideological messages that issue from power-forces and spread across societies. I draw conceptually on Antonio Gramsci to diagnose how, in current times, populist messages verge Extreme-Right as a hegemonically powerful minority wages culture wars that target marginalised groups to blame for ‘good-citizen’ sufferings. Such unjustly divisive efforts to hold power manifest a crisis of governance in chaos, I argue, symptomizing how structural underpinnings are at historic tipping points towards dangerous times ahead. Against the mis-educational tide of populist curriculum, I consider how school curriculum can build young people’s knowledge and agency to live present-day crises towards sustainable and socially-just futures. Taking conceptual tools from Paolo Freire, Lauren Berlant, and the Funds of Knowledge (FoK) approach pioneered by Luis Moll and colleagues, I draw on a school FoK project I was part of, that suggested possibilities for participatory-democratic curriculum activity, but limited by system constraints. I then conceptualise ways to expand beyond the constraints through what I call a Problems That Matter approach, featuring collaboration among students, community people, teachers and academics in student-led action-research on lived problems in their communities.
Refractory accounts of feminist educational policy work: the case of Gender Equity: A Framework For Australian Schools
Authors: Gannon Susanne
Published: April 2024

Feminist engagement in education policy in Australia has been extensive and impactful, with periods of high activity and influence in the past through to a present where it seems difficult to find feminist voices in policy spaces. There are diverse perspectives on the earlier decades of feminist policy influence that shift according to context, the social and political milieus of each moment, location, and position within the policy assemblage. In this paper I focus on the era of the mid 1990s, and the national policy Gender Equity: A Framework for Australian Schools (1997) as a case of policy emergence, mutation and dissipation. Drawing on my own recollections and interviews with eleven policy actors who were variously involved in the gender and education policy work around that time, I explore processes, strategies, obstacles and affordances of the times through four types of trouble: policy trouble, patriarchal trouble, school trouble, and genders and sexualities trouble. I offer these as refractory accounts of feminist policy work, that might break through linear accounts and add further nuance and context to our revisiting of feminism in education.
Sport for Development: A Social Movement Captured by Elites?
Authors: Moustakas Louis
Published: April 2024

Over the last 30 years there has been a growth of actors involved in Sport for Development (SFD). Though some of these actors aligned with prevailing power structures, others challenged existing power structures. In that sense, the SFD movement became disparate and multi-faceted and could be seen as an emerging area that could challenge dominant structures. With time, the SFD sector has coalesced around a variety of formal structures, and these more ‘rebellious’ tendencies have been dampened. Though some have argued that these structures show adaptation or professionalisation, using Olúfẹ́mi O. Táíwò’s work as a foundation, I will argue that these changes emerged as part of a purposeful process of elite capture. In particular, elite capture has occurred in three interconnected ways. First, elite actors established standards, policies and guidelines that aligned with their interests. Second, elites imposed those standards by funding and controlling projects in the field. Finally, elites legitimised the standards they set by taking over avenues for knowledge production within SFD. Taken together, elite capture limits the ability of SFD actors to challenge the systemic factors that impede their participants and communities. To escape this, as Táíwò argues, means more than just offering representation to ‘marginalised’ groups. New structures outside of the constraints of existing ones are needed.
A Cold Habitat: Mapping Blade Assemblages Between the Siberian Altai and the Tibetan Plateau During MIS 3
Authors: Zhang Peiqi , Haas Randall , Paine Clea , Zhang Xiaoling , Zwyns Nicolas
Published: April 2024

How and why early hunter–gatherers expanded into the challenging environments of the Tibetan Plateau during the Pleistocene remain largely unexplained. The discovery of the archaeological site of Nwya Devu, characterized by lithic blade production, brings new evidence of human expansion to high elevations ca. 40–30 ka. The blade assemblage currently lacks technological antecedents in East Asia. During Marine Isotope Stage 3, the surrounding lowlands to the Plateau were dominated by a distinct type of industry broadly named “core and flake.” It is suggested that the Nwya Devu blade assemblage derives from traditions in the eastern Eurasian Steppe, a clustered hub for Upper Paleolithic blade technology. In contrast to the East Asian lowlands, the Tibetan Plateau shares a number of environmental similarities with North and Central Asia such as low temperature and humidity, long winters, strong seasonality, and grassland landscapes. Blade and core-and-flake technologies tend to be associated with different environments in eastern Asia. We hypothesize that this geographic distribution indicates different sets of behavioral adaptations that map onto distinct ecozones and are relevant to human expansion to the Tibetan Plateau during Marine Isotope Stage 3. To evaluate the working model, we characterized the environmental parameters for both blade and core-and-flake technologies in eastern Asia during the period. The results show that environmental conditions on the Plateau and at the Nwya Devu site align with those of blade assemblages documented in the Eurasian Steppe and contrast with those of core-and-flake assemblages. Blade technology is strongly associated with low-temperature environments. These findings suggest that hunter–gatherers from the steppe belt may have benefited from their behaviorally adaptive advantages when moving into the highland environments of the Tibetan Plateau, 40–30 ka.
Zur Idee eines Menschenrechts auf Tierschutz
Authors: Albersmeier Frauke
Published: April 2024

Menschen sind als Bürger, Konsumenten und Mitmenschen umfassend in Verhalten gegenüber nichtmenschlichen Tieren verstrickt, das ihren reflektierten moralischen Vorstellungen widerspricht. Es existieren einige wenige Ansätze, diese Lage als eine Menschenrechtsverletzung zu analysieren und ein Menschenrecht auf Tierschutz einzufordern. Der vorliegende Text unterzieht diese Idee einer kritischen Prüfung. Dass der Ethik der Mensch-Tier-Beziehung menschenrechtliche Relevanz zukommt, soll dabei nicht bestritten werden. Am Beispiel des Befriedungsrechts ist etwa zu sehen, wie bereits anerkannte Menschenrechte zur Durchsetzung ethischer Interessen in Bezug auf nichtmenschliche Tiere genutzt werden. Dieser Artikel stellt vorhandene Ansätze zur Darlegung eines separaten Menschenrechts auf Tierschutz vor und geht der Frage nach, von welchen ethischen Voraussetzungen ein solches Recht abhängig und wie es zu formulieren wäre. Es wird gezeigt, dass der Versuch, dem Menschenrecht auf Tierschutz einen über das Recht auf Gewissensfreiheit hinausgehenden Gehalt zuzuweisen, mit grundlegenden Schwierigkeiten konfrontiert ist. Schließlich wird vorgeschlagen, die menschenrechtliche Relevanz gegenwärtiger Probleme der Mensch-Tier-Beziehung eher in der Störung der Bedingungen der Möglichkeit von Gewissensfreiheit zu suchen und das Recht auf Tierschutz als ein besonderes Recht auf Bildung zu konzipieren.
Zur Funktion der „kleinen“ Rache in Prozessen moralischer Wiederherstellung – Warum Verzeihen und Rache nicht immer Gegensätze sind
Authors: Lotter Maria-Sibylla
Published: April 2024

Ausgehend von der Beobachtung, dass die Rache heute von der Philosophie entweder ganz ignoriert oder mit ihren exzessiv gewalttätigen Formen gleichgesetzt und moralisch verurteilt wird, möchte der Beitrag ein differenzierteres Bild der Rache skizzieren. Dabei wird auch die Vorstellung kritisiert, Rache und Verzeihen seien in der sozialen Realität einander ausschließende Gegensätze. Im ersten Teil wende ich mich, ausgehend von verschiedenen neueren philosophischen Arbeiten, gegen ein essentialistisches und idealisiertes Verständnis des Verzeihens. Ich plädiere dafür, bei der Bewertung von Verzeihen und Rache auch ihre jeweilige Rolle mit Blick auf die Aufrechterhaltung oder Ausgleichung ungleicher Machtverhältnisse und ihre Funktion für die Selbstermächtigung von Opfern von Übergriffen und die Wiederherstellung ihrer Selbstachtung zu berücksichtigen. Im letzten Teil zeige ich an drei Beispielen, dass ein Prozess der moralischen Reparatur nicht selten kleine Racheelemente integrieren muss, um das Verzeihen zu ermöglichen.
Highly sensitive ratiometric fluorescent fiber matrices for oxygen sensing with micrometer spatial resolution
Authors: Grasso Giuliana , Onesto Valentina , Forciniti Stefania , D’Amone Eliana , Colella Francesco , Pierantoni Lara , Famà Valeria , Gigli Giuseppe , Reis Rui L. , Oliveira J. Miguel , del Mercato Loretta L.
Published: April 2024

Oxygen (O2)-sensing matrices are promising tools for the live monitoring of extracellular O2 consumption levels in long-term cell cultures. In this study, ratiometric O2-sensing membranes were prepared by electrospinning, an easy, low-cost, scalable, and robust method for fabricating nanofibers. Poly(ε-caprolactone) and poly(dimethyl)siloxane polymers were blended with tris(4,7-diphenyl-1,10-phenanthroline) ruthenium(II) dichloride, which was used as the O2-sensing probe, and rhodamine B isothiocyanate, which was used as the reference dye. The functionalized scaffolds were morphologically characterized by scanning electron microscopy, and their physicochemical profiles were obtained by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, and water contact angle measurement. The sensing capabilities were investigated by confocal laser scanning microscopy, performing photobleaching, reversibility, and calibration curve studies toward different dissolved O2 (DO) concentrations. Electrospun sensing nanofibers showed a high response to changes in DO concentrations in the physiological-pathological range from 0.5% to 20% and good stability under ratiometric imaging. In addition, the sensing systems were highly biocompatible for cell growth promoting adhesiveness and growth of three cancer cell lines, namely metastatic melanoma cell line SK-MEL2, breast cancer cell line MCF-7, and pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma cell line Panc-1, thus recreating a suitable biological environment in vitro. These O2-sensing biomaterials can potentially measure alterations in cell metabolism caused by changes in ambient O2 content during drug testing/validation and tissue regeneration processes.

Graphic abstract
Strengthening the Indomitable Spirit of Nurses Through Targeted Resilience Education
Authors: Blaney Leigh , Abbey Darin , Pollard Emmerson , Agyekum Eric , Slonowsky Dean , Macdonald Anna
Published: April 2024

Nurses face complex stressors in their work including routine exposure to human suffering and potentially traumatic events. Consequently, nurses are at risk of moral distress, workplace burnout, and compassion fatigue. The aim of this study was to design, develop, and test a health-promoting resilience education program for nurses. The research questions were as follows: (1) Are resilience scores of nurses affected by resilience education? (2) How do nurses understand resilience in the context of their workplace? (3) What role does resilience play in nurses’ mental health? (4) Is single-session targeted resilience education effective in maintaining resilience scores over time? Nurses in this study are moderately resilient as noted by their pre-education scores on the Resilience Scale (RS) and the Resilience at Work (RS@W) Scale. Resilience scores significantly increased immediately after resilience education and were sustained over time. Nurses have an array of health strategies for maintaining their resilience; these were further enhanced through experiential education. Increased resilience scores resulted in changes in nurses’ behavior and thinking, and new strategies were integrated into the nurses’ “toolbox” of cognitive and behavioral skills. Building and sustaining a strong foundation of resilience and well-being is key for nurses to maintain mental health, cope with work-related stressors, and provide safe competent patient care. Study outcomes offer opportunities to change the narrative from nursing as perilous and risky to one of strength, flourish, and growth. Beyond individual resilience, system-level change is required to support the well-being of healthcare personnel.
Injury Incidence and Injury Period Prevalence in Underwater Hockey: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Adams Vikki , Jones Ashley , Partner Hannah , Partner Richard
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Underwater Hockey (UWH) is an upcoming sport involving limited contact between players. To date there are no published estimates of injuries in UWH. The aim of this study was to provide estimate on overall injury incidence and injury period prevalence in a sample of UWH players.

Methods

A cross-sectional study design with a convenience sample of UWH players recorded injuries sustained over the previous 12-month period. A total of 441 UWH players completed the study online questionnaire. Descriptive statistics with confidence intervals, alongside a one variable Chi squared test (χ2) or independent sample t-test.

Results

The overall injury incidence was 2.33/1000 h. Wrist, hand, and finger injuries combined (31.8%) were the most frequently injured regions followed by isolated shoulder injuries (16.8%). Contact with another player was the most frequent injury mechanism (43.5%) attributed, whilst the most common injury duration was between 8 and 28 days (35.9%).

Conclusion

This is the first study to report injury data in a sample of UWH players. Incidence rates were similar to other water-based sports such as endurance swimming. The high prevalence of wrist, hand and finger and shoulder injuries suggest that future injury prevention programmes should look to include upper limb-focussed risk reduction strategies.
Efficient and precise genomic deletion in rice using enhanced prime editing
Authors: Liu Mengyuan , Zhang Xiang , Xu Wen , Kang Guiting , Liu Ya , Liu Xinxiang , Ren Wen , Zhao Jiuran , Yang Jinxiao
Published: April 2024

Efficient and precise genomic deletion shows promise for investigating the function of proteins in plant research and enhancing agricultural traits. In this study, we tested the PRIME-Del (PDel) strategy using a pair of prime editing guide RNAs (pegRNAs) that targeted opposite DNA strands and achieved an average deletion efficiency of 55.8% for 60 bp fragment deletions at six endogenous targets. Moreover, as high as 84.2% precise deletion efficiency was obtained for a 2000 bp deletion at the OsGS1 site in transgenic rice plants. To add the bases that were unintentionally deleted between the two nicking sequences, we used the PDel/Syn strategy, which introduced multiple synonymous base mutations in the region that had to be patched in the RT template. The PDel/Syn strategy achieved an average of 58.1% deletion efficiency at six endogenous targets, which was higher than the PDel strategy. The strategies presented in this study contribute to achieving more accurate and flexible deletions in transgenic rice plants.
Development of a bio-inspired wound model for debridement training
Authors: Senior Jessica J. , Jaworska Kayley , Atkin Leanne , Ousey Karen , Smith Alan M.
Published: April 2024

Wound debridement is commonplace in expediting wound healing in the clinic. Despite this, there are limited resources available for simulation training for practitioners prior to facing real-life patients. Typically, citrus peels or porcine skin are employed in a vain attempt to improve debridement proficiency, yet these fail to provide a realistic experience of the textures and consistencies of wounds. Therefore, there is a clear unmet need for a safe and effective tool that can facilitate hands-on learning under the instruction of an experienced debrider. To fill this niche, a life-like wound model was designed and developed, featuring leathery necrotic eschar, an intermediary sloughy layer, and a rough granulation tissue in the bottommost layer, all within a healthy skin base. The healthy tissue portion of the model was designed to exhibit similar mechanical properties to those found in human skin. Likewise, the sloughy layer was viscous enough to remain within the model under static conditions yet could be removed using any appropriate debriding tool synonymous with real slough. Mechanical testing of the necrotic eschar revealed brittle fracture behaviour, akin to what is observed in patients. Each layer of the wound model provided the visual and haptic feedback of how it would look and feel to debride a patient’s wound in the clinic, giving invaluable experience for potential trainees in a safe and effectual way. It is envisaged that these models can be developed in a personalised way to suit the individual needs of the user, such as incorporating underlying models of bone or tendon, while retaining the key elements of the wound, which make it successful. This model is proposed as an important step forward in bridging the gap between becoming a newly qualified debriding practitioner and encountering the first wound in the clinic, subsequently improving the confidence of the debrider and enhancing patient outcomes.
Heat transfer characteristics of a heat-recovery boiler built based on a modular mini boiler
Authors: Ahn Joon
Published: April 2024

The objective of this study is to design a heat-recovery boiler for a 1 MW-class gas engine-based cogeneration system intended to recover heat from engine exhaust gas. To accommodate high-pressure applications, a water tube-type boiler is selected. For ensuring effective water circulation within the boiler, an innovative modular-type boiler based on the mini-boiler concept is developed. This boiler comprises finned tube-type risers, and their heat-transfer characteristics are measured and compared with the conventional correlation used in the design process. Additionally, an inlet guide vane is developed to address the temperature nonuniformity resulting from the shape mismatch between the gas engine outlet and heat-recovery boiler inlet. The performance of the proposed boiler was evaluated by integrating it into an experimental rig. The diamond-shaped inlet guide vane, which was designed by computational fluid dynamics, facilitated a uniform temperature distribution. However, the temperature became nonuniform downstream owing to the influence of a downcomer. Although the modular heat-recovery boiler effectively produced steam from gas engine exhaust gasses, its heat-transfer performance in the downstream section was lower than expected, necessitating additional heat-transfer area.
The significance of conceptualism in McDowell
Authors: Hsu Shao-An
Published: April 2024

To explain perceptual justification, McDowell proposes so-called “conceptualism,” the view that the content of experience is all conceptual. Tony Cheng, in his book, John McDowell on Worldly Subjectivity (2021), suggests that McDowell can do without conceptualism. To support his suggestion, Cheng makes several contentions against McDowell’s thesis of the co-extensiveness of conceptuality and rationality. In this commentary, I focus on two most crucial contentions Cheng makes: (i) conceptualism is an extra commitment for explaining perceptual justification and (ii) it can be replaced by a suitable structural constraint on non-conceptual content. First, I clarify McDowell’s co-extensiveness thesis and his conception of the conceptual. Then, based on my clarifications, I defend conceptualism against the two contentions.
A cross-national performance comparison universal healthcare systems of Chile, Costa Rica, Italy, and Spain using OECD data
Authors: Zavaleta-Monestel Esteban , Zovi Andrea , Morales-Vallespín Jorge , Martínez-Sesmero José Manuel , Rojas-Barrantes Zoe , Serrano-Arias Bruno , Arguedas-Chacón Sebastián , Díaz-Madriz José Pablo , Villalobos-Madriz Jorge Arturo , Langella Roberto , Ortiz-Barboza Adolfo , Ferrara Francesco
Published: April 2024

Objectives

To analyze Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) indicators for the Health Systems of Costa Rica, Spain, and Italy, focusing on year-to-year changes.

Study design and methods

Examining each country’s healthcare systems utilizes a value-for-money approach, aiming to outline their healthcare expenditures relative to the OECD average, while also assessing the value obtained from these investments. This involves contrasting reported indicator values for each country and the OECD average during a year close to the last decade’s outset (year 1) with data around 2020 (year 2).

Results

Results obtained are based on different indicators and the countries being examined. Costa Rica stood out with lowest healthcare investment, while Chile had the less population coverage for a set core of services. Italy and Spain achieved 100% healthcare coverage. All four regions reported decreased tobacco consumption in terms of non-medical determinants of health. Costa Rica showcased the highest vaccination coverage and experienced the most significant increase in this aspect within healthcare utilization. In the context of resource accessibility, waiting times from specialist assessment to treatment increased the most for hip replacement procedures in Chile, Costa Rica, Italy, and Spain. The Pharmaceutical Consumption analysis highlighted agents acting on the Renin-Angiotensin system as the most widely consumed category.

Conclusion

This analysis helps reveal the workings of diverse health systems, allowing us to pinpoint areas for potential improvement within each region. By examining the achievements and obstacles faced by other nations, policymakers and healthcare stakeholders acquire a valuable foundation on which to enact reforms.
Quantifications of service quality factors using the relative importance index method for passenger ferry service in Bangladesh
Authors: Sourav Md.Mohaimenul Islam , Abeer Asif Ahmed , Bhuiyan Abir Hasan
Published: April 2024

Service Quality (SQ) of passenger ferries greatly influences passengers' travel experience. The purpose of this article is to identify the passenger ferry's SQ factors and evaluate them using the Relative Importance Index (RII) method. After a thorough review of the literature and passenger interviews, 28 distinct SQ elements are identified, categorised into six major groups, and depicted using the Ishikawa (fishbone) diagram. Different SQ factors are ranked according to their relative importance using the relative importance index method. According to the SQ, the groups and factors are prioritised. Based on the study’s findings, recommendations are made to enhance the passenger ferry's SQ. The factors and groups influencing the SQ (those in need of attention) are discussed.
Integrated Care in Neurology: The Current Landscape and Future Directions
Authors: Feng Tanya L. , Stoessl A. Jon , Harrison Rebecca A.
Published: April 2024

The rising burden of neurological disorders poses significant challenges to healthcare systems worldwide. There has been an increasing momentum to apply integrated approaches to the management of several chronic illnesses in order to address systemic healthcare challenges and improve the quality of care for patients. The aim of this paper is to provide a narrative review of the current landscape of integrated care in neurology. We identified a growing body of research from countries around the world applying a variety of integrated care models to the treatment of common neurological conditions. Based on our findings, we discuss opportunities for further study in this area. Finally, we discuss the future of integrated care in Canada, including unique geographic, historical, and economic considerations, and the role that integrated care may play in addressing challenges we face in our current healthcare system.
A Reappropriation of the Joseph Story in Genesis 39 and Surah 12 for Contemporary Race-Discourse
Authors: Orji Cyril
Published: April 2024

The death of George Floyd at the hands of law enforcement agents in 2020 and the racial tensions that followed it have again reignited the contentious debate about racism and society’s inability to find an enduring solution. This article is a novel effort to situate the debate in an interreligious context and contribute meaningfully to the search for a solution. Drawing from the Joseph and Potiphar’s wife story in Genesis 39 and Surah 12 of the holy Qur’an, the article shows the intersections of this patriarchal material with the axes of identity and marginality. Drawing from the multiple junctures of this intersectionality that include race, ethnicity, identity, and microaggressions, the article identifies in the scriptural texts seven resonances of contemporary racism that are often ignored or poorly understood in race discourse. Taking into consideration some meaningful solutions suggested by legal luminaries and behavioral scientists in their respective fields, the article augments these with a religious solution, pointing in the direction of a true penitential spirit, like the one demonstrated by Potiphar’s wife in the Qur’an. The suggestion is that a genuine turnaround (conversion) is also in the spirit of the ecclesial repentance that was practiced in the early church before some medieval abuses crept in. The article concludes that human agencies aside, ultimately it is God’s ability to bring good out of evil, the way God did with Joseph, that can bring an enduring solution to victims of racism.
Elevation bias due to penetration of spaceborne radar signal on Grosser Aletschgletscher, Switzerland
Authors: Bannwart Jacqueline , Piermattei Livia , Dussaillant Inés , Krieger Lukas , Floricioiu Dana , Berthier Etienne , Roeoesli Claudia , Machguth Horst , Zemp Michael
Published: April 2024

Digital elevation models (DEMs) from the spaceborne interferometric radar mission TanDEM-X hold a large potential for glacier change assessments. However, a bias is potentially introduced through the penetration of the X-band signal into snow and firn. To improve our understanding of radar penetration on glaciers, we compare DEMs derived from the almost synchronous acquisition of TanDEM-X and Pléiades optical stereo-images of Grosser Aletschgletscher in March 2021. We found that the elevation bias – averaged per elevation bin – can reach up to 4–8 m in the accumulation area, depending on post co-registration corrections. Concurrent in situ measurements (ground-penetrating radar, snow cores, snow pits) reveal that the signal is not obstructed by the last summer horizon but reaches into perennial firn. Because of volume scattering, the TanDEM-X surface is determined by the scattering phase centre and does not coincide with a specific firn layer. We show that the bias corresponds to more than half of the decadal ice loss rate. To minimize the radar penetration bias, we recommend to select DEMs from the same time of the year and over long observation periods. A correction of the radar penetration bias is recommended, especially when combining optical and TanDEM-X DEMs.