bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In situ O2-releasing quantum dot composites with enhanced radical scavenging behaviour, biosafety, and broadband UV shielding applications
Authors: Sarkar Sayoni , Singh Atul Kumar , Srivastava Rohit , Kulkarni Ajit R.
Published: March 2024

Understanding the defect-driven photophysics-surface chemistry interplay at the nanoscale further augments new design considerations for active ingredients for skin UV protection, emphasizing affordability, safety, and multi-functionality. Accelerating it, our study unravelled broad-spectrum UV attenuation (250 nm-400 nm) and long-lasting photostability (> 5 h) exhibited by in-house fabricated β-cyclodextrin functionalized, oxygen vacancy rich-CeO2/ZnO quantum dots composites (VO●-CeO2(x)/ZnO(1-x)@β-CD QD composites). A conceptually different strategy was pursued, involving artificially engineering surface VO● defects to modulate the band structure and enhance the molar absorptivity through photogenerated electron-hole separation. Unlike the conventional inorganic UV blockers, the QD composites harnessed their surface VO● to participate in a self-cascading antioxidant effect, scavenging 62.8% ●OH radicals. Results indicated that autocatalytic endogenous O2 generation from H2O2 scavenging accelerated by Ce3+/Ce4+ couple begets anti-photoaging and sunburn alleviation. The bandgap-engineered QD composites demonstrated synergistic suppression of oxidative stress development and remarkable cell viability (≥90%) even under UV irradiation. These underlying principles can be extended to prevent and treat other ROS-induced skin ailments. Incorporating VO●-CeO2(0.3)/ZnO(0.7)@β-CD QDs as active ingredients in commercial sunscreens unveiled a substantial enhancement in overall sun protection and antioxidative efficacy. Thus, it is envisioned that VO●-CeO2(x)/ZnO(1-x)@β-CD QD composites hold promise for developing safe, efficacious, and economical sunscreens.
Biocatalytic enantioselective C(sp3)–H fluorination enabled by directed evolution of nonheme Fe enzymes
Authors: Yang Yang , Zhao Liu-Peng , Mai Binh Khanh , Cheng Lida , Gao Fangqiu , Zhao Yunlong , Guo Rui , Wu Hao , Zhang Yongda , Liu Peng
Published: March 2024

Due to the scarcity of C–F bond forming enzymatic activities in nature and the contrasting ubiquity of organofluorine moieties in bioactive compounds, developing new biocatalytic fluorination reactions represents a preeminent challenge in enzymology, biocatalysis, and synthetic biology. Additionally, catalytic asymmetric C(sp3)–H fluorination remains a challenging problem facing synthetic chemists. Although many nonheme Fe halogenases have been discovered to promote C(sp3)–H halogenation reactions, to date, efforts to convert these Fe halogenases to fluorinases have remained unsuccessful. We repurposed a plant-derived natural nonheme enzyme 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid oxidase (ACCO) to catalyze unnatural enantioselective C(sp3)–H fluorination via a radical rebound mechanism. Directed evolution afforded C–H fluorinating enzyme ACCOCHF displaying 200-fold higher activity, substantially improved chemoselectivity and excellent enantioselectivity, converting a range of substrates into enantioenriched organofluorine products. Notably, almost all the beneficial mutations were found to be distal to the Fe centre, underscoring the importance of substrate tunnel engineering in nonheme Fe biocatalysis. Computational studies revealed that the radical rebound step with the Fe(III)–F intermediate has an exceedingly low activation barrier of 3.4 kcal/mol, highlighting a new avenue to expand the catalytic repertoire of enzymes to encompass asymmetric C–F bond formation.
CytroCell@PIL: a new Citrus nanocellulose-polymeric ionic liquid composite for enhanced anion exchange membrane alkaline water electrolysis
Authors: Fontanova Enrica , Ciriminna Rosaria , Talarico Daria , Galiano Francesco , Figoli Alberto , Di Profio Gianluca , Mancuso Raffaella , Gabriele Bartolo , Angellotti Giuseppe , Li Petri Giovanna , Meneguzzo Francesco , Pagliaro Mario
Published: March 2024

The urgently needed enhancement of alkaline water electrolysis requires to develop anion exchange membranes (AEMs) merging high permselectivity with low resistance to ion transport, capable at the same time to remain stable after prolonged contact with concentrated alkaline solution. We now report that CytroCell@PIL, a matrix membrane obtained by casting and polymerization of a solution of CytroCell micronized cellulose in cyrene and a polymerizable ionic liquid comprised of a sytrene unit functionalized with a triethylphosphonium ion and BF4- as counter ion, shows such required properties. These findings open the route to the development of low cost, large area AEMs chemically stabilized and mechanically reinforced by a small amount of Citrus nanocellulose reproducibly produced in large quantity at ultralow cost from lemon processing waste via hydrodynamic cavitation in water only.
Exploring the Light-Emitting Agents in Renilla Luciferases by an Effective QM/MM Approach
Authors: Nandi Ashim , Zhang Aoxuan , Chu Zhen Tao , Xie Wen Jun , Xu Zhongxin , Dong Suwei , Warshel Arieh
Published: March 2024

Bioluminescence is a remarkable natural process in which living organisms produce light via specific biochemical reactions. Among these organisms, Renilla luciferase (RLuc), derived from the sea pansy Renilla reniformis, is notable for its blue light emission, making it one of the promising candidates for bioluminescent tagging. Our study focuses on RLuc8, a modified variant of RLuc characterized by eight amino acid substitutions. Recent findings have illuminated that its luminescent emitter, coelenteramide, is capable of existing in multiple protonation states. These states may significantly be influenced by adjacent proton acceptor residues at the enzyme's active site, highlighting the complex interplay between the protein structure and its bioluminescent activity. Herein employing the Quantum Mechanical Consistent Force Field (QCFF/PI) method and the semi-macroscopic Protein Dipole-Langevin Dipole method with Linear Response Approximation (PDLD/S-LRA), we show that the phenolate state of coelenteramide in RLuc8 is the predominant light-emitting species, corroborating experimental results. Our calculations also demonstrate that proton transfer from neutral coelenteramide to Asp162 is integral to the bioluminescence mechanism. Furthermore, our calculations reproduce the observed emission maximum for the amide anion in RLuc8-D120A mutant. In the case of RLuc8-D162A, we predicted that the pyrazine anion, existing in the presence of a Na+ counterion, has an emission maximum consistent with experimental data, suggesting its primary role as potential emitter. Additionally, our calculations on the engineered AncFT-D160A enzyme, structurally similar to RLuc8-D162A but with a significantly blue-shifted emission peak, show that the emission peak of its neutral form of the emitter agrees well with observed data. This agreement may explain the variations in observed emission peaks. This study not only showcases an effective way for investigating the bimolecular states of chromophores in light emission but also introduces an efficient approach that integrates the proton transfer process into the calculations of the emission spectra, proving vital for further research of proton transfer and light emission in photoproteins.
Modelling One-Electron Oxidation Potentials and Hole Delocalization in Double-Stranded DNA by Multilayer and Dynamic Approaches
Authors: Lucia-Tamudo Jesús , Díaz-Tendero Sergio , Nogueira Juan Jose
Published: March 2024

The amount of innovative applications for DNA nowadays is growing quickly. Its use as a nanowire or electrochemical biosensor leads to the need for a deep understanding of the charge transfer process along the strand, as well as its redox properties. These features are computationally simulated and analyzed in detail throughout this work by combining molecular dynamics, multilayer schemes and the Marcus theory. The one-electron oxidation potential and the hole delocalization have been analyzed for six DNA double strands that cover all possible binary combinations of nucleotides. The results have revealed that the one-electron oxidation potential decreases with respect to the single-stranded DNA, giving evidence that the greater rigidity of a double helix induces an increase in the capacity of storing the positive charge generated upon oxidation. In addition, the hole is mainly stored in nucleobases with large reducer character, i.e., purines, especially when those are arranged in a stacked configuration in the same strand. From the computational point of view, the sampling needed to describe biological systems implies a significant computational cost. Here, we show that a small number of representative conformations generated by a clustering analysis provides accurate results when compared with those obtained from the sampling, reducing considerably the computational cost.
Tending to Tradition?
Authors: Tan Kelly
Published: March 2024

From 1901-1942, the Ethical Policy era in the Dutch East Indies was a period when ‘ethical’ colonial policies, which sought to retain the cultural integrity and welfare of the Indonesian people were introduced by Dutch colonial authorities. These ethical policies included strengthening Indonesia’s agricultural economy to bolster local welfare, as well as integrating traditional Indonesian laws and values (adat) into their labour policies—particularly for female labourers. This paper explores the effects of Dutch Ethical Policy on the labour conditions for Indonesian women by examining the consequences of agricultural expansion, how adat is retained in labour policies, perceptions of Dutch versus Indonesian women, and the female night labour bill of 1925. It posits that the Netherlands used pretenses of promoting Indonesian welfare and retaining traditional customs to justify and cover their complacency in the hazardous labour conditions for Indonesian women as a means to earn more profit from crop yields.
Fostering Inclusivity in Peacekeeping
Authors: Malik Sanya
Published: March 2024

The United Nations Peacekeeping operations involve a diverse array of stakeholders on the decision-making and enforcement side, ranging from senior officials to troops and civilian personnel, whose backgrounds and perspectives significantly impact mission effectiveness. Gender considerations within recruitment does form an important part of UN’s engagement especially within its foundational mandate of Women, Peace, and Security as outlined in United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325. Intersectionality along with cultural contexts within host countries further complicate the recruitment process. Furthermore, while the deliberate inclusion of women is advocated, it often leads to reinforcing stereotypical roles and ‘side streaming; of gender rather than genuine ‘mainstreaming; practices. This paper examines the interconnected challenges of gender stereotypes, cultural understanding, and diversity and inclusivity in peacekeeping recruitment. It argues for a strategic, asset-based, inclusive approach to recruitment and deployment of female peacekeepers, coupled with enhanced cultural sensitivity. Drawing on existing literature and examples, the paper proposes policy recommendations aimed at fostering effective peacekeeping without reinforcing gender stereotypes.
The Roots of Ethnic Conflict in Post-World War II Myanmar, Malaysia, and the Philippines
Authors: Dy Brianne
Published: March 2024

The impacts of colonial history on present-day ethnic relations in Southeast Asia, a region known for its cultural and ethnic diversity, remain significant in understanding the sociopolitical developments within the countries of the region. This paper examines the historical origins and contemporary implications of long-standing ethnic conflicts in Southeast Asia, focusing on Myanmar, Malaysia, and the Philippines. I argue that these conflicts stemmed from colonial legacies and can be traced back to each country’s respective colonial periods, which took place at different points in history. From the imposition of territorial boundaries to racial classification and differential treatment, colonial policies resulted in enduring tensions between ethnic populations, which continue to shape ethnic relations in these countries today. British colonial rule in Myanmar fostered tensions between the Bamar majority and non-Bamar minorities, while in Malaysia, disparities between Malays and ethnic Chinese were fueled by British migration policies. In the Philippines, conflicts involving the Muslim minority in Mindanao originated from attempts by the Spanish at Christianization and subjugation, further exacerbated by American imperialism. Despite variations in colonial experiences and timelines, ethnic conflicts underscore the lasting impact of colonization on these countries’ present-day social and political dynamics.
A Pious Paradox
Authors: Wesoky Jacob
Published: March 2024

The divergent trajectories in the legalization of same-sex marriage amidst disparate levels of religiosity challenges conventional wisdom about the relationship between religion, state, and society. Contrary to the conventional belief that higher religiosity in countries fosters conservative views and resistance to progressive social reforms, Argentina and Chile present an intriguing anomaly. Utilizing data from the World Values Survey and examining the historical, political, and social contexts of each country, this paper seeks to understand why Argentina, with its higher religiosity and constitutional favoritism towards Catholicism, became the first Latin American country to legalize same-sex marriage in 2010, while Chile, less religious but more socially conservative, followed much later in 2021. The paper explores the divergent pre and post-dictatorship economic philosophies, governmental structures, sociopolitical landscapes and the distinct roles of the Catholic Church in 21st century Chilean and Argentine politics. It argues that in Argentina, individual political views and a vibrant civil society have developed independently of religious beliefs, fostering a political culture more open to progressive social reform. Conversely, Chile’s entrenched neoliberal policies and the Catholic Church’s sustained influence in Chilean civil society align with more conservative social values, impeding similar progress. These findings challenge the assumption that higher levels of religiosity necessarily correlate with social conservatism and underscore the complex interplay between religion, government, and social values. This research not only illuminates the nuanced dynamics at play in the legal recognition of same-sex marriage in Latin America but also suggests broader implications for understanding the impact of religiosity on political and social attitudes globally.
Investigating the aspiration and feasibility of a Turkish shift to nuclear weapons Is Erdogan’s narrative something to fear?
Authors: Lefeuvre Maëlle
Published: March 2024

The aim of this study is to investigate why Türkiye might be interested in acquiring nuclear weapons and pursuing armament, and understand whether its nuclear aspirations are truly feasible. In line with existing theoretical nuclear armament models, particularly through realist and idealist views, this paper will determine whether nuclear proliferation in Türkiye can be expected. Considering that in recent years the Middle East region has had points of tension in relation to nuclear developments, it is essential to consider the ways in which international norms, Türkiye’s domestic context, and the role of political figures have impacted Ankara’s nuclear energy policy and demands for nuclear Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD). By providing a detailed critique, and by taking into account the significance of the re-election of Recep Tayyip Erdogan in the 2023 Presidential elections, this article will provide a nuanced understanding to Türkiye’s foreign and domestic policies, whilst providing a new perspective to armament theories.
LOẠI BỎ CHÌ KHỎI NƯỚC THẢI CÔNG NGHIỆP BẰNG CÂY CỎ MỰC (Eclipta alba)
Authors: Đỗ Quang Trung
Published: March 2024

Một trong những vấn đề môi trường chính đang diễn ra là ô nhiễm nguồn nước và đất bởi các kim loại nặng độc hại. Mục đích của nghiên cứu này nhằm đánh giá tiềm năng của cây cỏ Mực (Eclipta alba) trong việc loại bỏ ion chì (Pb2+) khỏi nước bị ô nhiễm bằng kỹ thuật xử lý ô nhiễm thực vật và nghiên cứu ảnh hưởng của một số điều kiện môi trường (nồng độ Pb, thời gian tiếp xúc và giá trị pH) đến hiệu quả loại bỏ Pb của cây cỏ Mực. Kết quả nghiên cứu cho thấy ở nồng độ 50 ppm cây cỏ Mực có hiệu quả loại bỏ ion Pb2+ cao nhất (99,34%) sau 7 ngày xử lý. Ngoài ra, kết quả cũng cho thấy pH 7 là pH tối ưu cho việc loại bỏ Pb bằng cỏ Mực (hiệu suất đạt 98,95%). Kết quả phân tích cho thấy sau 7 ngày xử lý ở pH=7 khả năng tích lũy Pb của rễ, thân và lá lần lượt là 2861,2 mg/kg, 2497,1 mg/kg và 503,2 mg/kg. Hơn nữa, kết quả cho thấy cỏ Mực có hệ số chuyển vị (TF) >1 và có hệ số cô đặc sinh học (BCF) của chồi lớn hơn 1 cho Pb; do đó, cây cỏ Mực phù hợp cho quá trình tách Pb từ nước thải bị nhiễm chì.
CÁC HỢP CHẤT FLAVONOID VÀ DIARYLHEPTANOID TỪ CÂY CONAMOMUM RUBIDUM LAMXAY & N.S.LÝ
Authors: Hoàng Thị Như Hạnh , Nguyễn Thị Ngọc Kiều , Hồ Thị Hoài Nhi , Hồ Đức Việt
Published: March 2024

Năm hợp chất gồm hai dihydrochalcone, 2’,6’-dihydroxy-4’-methoxydihydrochalcone (1), dihydroflavokawin B (2), một flavanone, pinocembrin (3) và hai diarylheptanoid, dihydroyashabushiketol (4), 5-methoxy-1,7-diphenyl-3-heptanone (5) đã được phân lập lần đầu tiên từ cao chiết n-hexane của loài Conamomum rubidum. Cấu trúc hóa học của chúng được xác định bằng phương pháp phổ cộng hưởng từ hạt nhân và so sánh với các dữ kiện phổ đã công bố. Hoạt tính kháng viêm trên mô hình ức chế sản sinh NO và gây độc tế bào của các hợp chất đã được đánh giá. Theo đó, hợp chất 2, 4 và 5 ức chế sản sinh NO với các giá trị IC50 trong khoảng từ 58,16 ± 3,02 đến 81,95 ± 2,87 µM. Hợp chất 1 ức chế tế bào ung thư phổi SK-LU-1 với giá trị IC50 = 58,45 ± 2,26 µM.
ĐÁNH GIÁ TIỀM NĂNG CỦA CÂY CHANH LƯƠNG (Leptocarpus disjunctus Mast.) TỪ TỰ NHIÊN Ở MIỀN TRUNG, VIỆT NAM LÀM THỨC ĂN CHO GIA SÚC NHAI LẠI
Authors: Lợi Bùi Văn , Trí Nguyễn Minh , Thành Phạm
Published: March 2024

Cây Chanh lương (Leptocarpus disjunctus Mast.) là một loài cây cỏ mọc tự nhiên ở vùng cát ven biển các tỉnh miền Trung, Việt Nam. Loài này có sức sống mạnh mẽ, mọc đơn lẻ từng khóm hay mọc liền bì bịt kín mặt cát. Khả năng thích nghi và khả năng chịu ngập nước hoặc chịu hạn rất cao. Nghiên cứu nhằm đánh giá tiềm năng của cây Chanh lương mọc tự nhiên để làm thức ăn cho gia súc nhai lại thông qua các chỉ tiêu về chiều cao cây cao nhất, chiều cao thảm cỏ; năng suất chất xanh, năng suất chất khô, năng suất protein và thành phần hóa học. Thí nghiệm đã được tiến hành ở các vùng đất cát của huyện Lệ Thủy, tỉnh Quảng Bình và huyện Quảng Thái, tỉnh Thừa Thiên Huế. Tại mỗi địa điểm, 5 ô nghiên cứu được chọn để bố trí thí nghiệm, tiến hành qua hai mùa, mùa khô và mùa mưa. Chiều cao cao nhất của cây trong khoảng 102,58 – 104,82cm, chiều cao thảm cỏ 80,26 – 81,57cm. Năng suất chất xanh, năng suất chất khô, năng suất protein lần lượt 10,3 – 12,4 tấn/ha/lứa, 4,1 – 4,8 tấn/ha/lứa, 0,6 – 0,7 tấn/ha/lứa. Thành phần hóa học gồm vật chất khô (DM) 43,55%, tính theo DM, CP 5,70%, EE 1,72%, CF 43,23%, ADF 43,64%, NDF 69.09% và khoáng tổng số 2,14%. Kết quả nghiên cứu cho thấy tiềm năng sử dụng nguồn Chanh lương mọc tự nhiên ở các vùng đất cát nghèo dinh dưỡng, thời tiết khắc nghiệt ở Quảng Bình và Thừa Thiên Huế làm thức ăn cho gia súc nhai lại.
Media and Majesty
Authors: Watson Gavin
Published: March 2024

The relationship between media and the British monarchy is one that dominates the institution in its modern form. An important chapter in this relationship was the 1953 Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II, the first ever to be televised. Despite being a key cultural figure in most Britons’ lives, scholars have only begun to critically historicize the late Queen alongside the events she ruled over. This article contributes to conversations about the historical significance of the monarch by analysing the planning of her coronation, the themes invoked within the event itself, and public response to the event. It does so by situating the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) as a principal force in mobilizing themes of social unity, mediated intimacy, the ‘magic’ of monarchy, and the Queen as a feminized maternal figure to reify monarchist, conservative, and colonial ideas. Ultimately, the BBC mobilized new technologies to uphold traditional, historical ideas about the role of the monarchy, in a period of imperial dissolution and waning British prestige.
Death and Rebirth
Authors: Drury Haley
Published: March 2024

This essay makes the argument that the sixteenth century Italian Renaissance can be interpreted as having occurred as a result of the bubonic plague, or “black death.” Since the plague recurred in waves throughout the sixteenth century, those who experienced it endured a shift in their mentality as a means of surviving—or, in some cases, they failed to do so. Surrounded by death and decay and desperately clinging to devout Christianity, eventually people began to desire a way out of the dreariness. Enter, the Renaissance. As literature such as Boccaccio's famous The Decameron inspired humanist thinking, many began to focus more on enjoying their potentially fleeting lives by engaging in new pastimes. Art, for example, became more robust both in quantity and quality. As well, socio-economic centers, the church, and the overall sixteenth century psyche displayed an observable shift throughout the rampage of the Black Death—all of which represent phenomena commonly associated with the Renaissance. This essay presents a unique entrance point for discussing the Renaissance and is thus a valuable addition to the Medieval and Renaissance Studies discourse.
Not Naïve Natives, but Poor Treaty Implementation
Authors: Morrison Ben
Published: March 2024

This essay is about the role that the Canadian government has played in treaty-making with the Indigenous population since 1871. The scope of this paper is a closer examination of Treaties 4, 6, and 7 of the 11 numbered Treaties signed by various Indigenous groups and the Canadian government from 1871-1921. This essay uses an interesting combination of primary and secondary sources to best analyse the negotiations and outcomes of these treaties. Primary sources from authors like Alexander Morris and the Treaty 7 Elders help the reader grasp the argument of Indigenous people, while secondary interpretations from modern-day historians like St. Germain and Tobias explain how treaty debates may have been misinterpreted in the past. This paper investigates all of the hardships that Indigenous people have faced and scrutinizes the false promises the Canadian government has made because of Treaties 4, 6, and 7. Most of all, this essay is a call to action. The goal of this essay is to spread awareness of issues that Indigenous people have faced in the past so that Canadians might better understand their struggles. Many Canadians are still completely unaware of Indigenous issues like the ones discussed in this essay, which remain largely unresolved and affect Indigenous groups to this day.
Mimicking of Mesoamerican Culture in Europe Through Chocolate
Authors: Rowdon Nicholas
Published: March 2024

The consumption of chocolate in Europe serves as a way to observe the flow of Mesoamerican culture into Europe. Cacao and chocolate played a central role in Mesoamerican society as it was used for rituals, tribute, and consumption. The interest in consuming chocolate gained a foothold only after a significant population within Spain had experienced chocolate in Mesoamerica, but then quickly spread through the rest of Europe. The diffusion of chocolate consumption across Europe retained elements of Mesoamerican culture that left a lasting impact. Cacao and chocolate ultimately remain products of Mesoamerican culture, while European contact leveraged the mystical properties, mimicking and hijacking indigenous beliefs and manifesting in different shapes within European society.
War for God or a War for the Godless?
Authors: Laliberte Andrew
Published: March 2024

The French Civil Wars, or ‘Wars of Religion,’ were set primarily in the sixteenth century and enveloped France in a religious conflict. The Civil Wars were a series of violent periods between the French Protestant Huguenots and the Roman Catholics, Catholicism being the official religion of the French Kingdom. The ongoing struggle resulted in an escalation of civil violence and polarity between the religious affiliations, creating a divided French populous that carried out many atrocities, such as the St. Bartholomew’s Day massacre. The violence subsided in 1598 when King Henry IV enacted the Edict of Nantes, granting substantial conditions and support to the Huguenot population in France. However, this paper argues for the importance of categorizing the wars as ‘civil’ and not ‘religious.’ The dynamic situation involves more than religious differences, including a central reliance on community-based disputes, group association based on mass paranoia, and even political gain for those of the French nobility. It is important to understand the complexity of the Civil Wars. Denoting them as a religious conflict ignores the other civil implications which provoked aggression between French communities and forces.
Foreword
Authors: McDonald Dr. R. Andrew
Published: March 2024

Foreword
Language Support in a Student Laboratory for Chemistry in Secondary School
Authors: Kieferle Sarah , Markic Silvija
Published: March 2024

Throughout the world, schools are visited by students with different native languages. Therefore, the linguistic competencies of the students are diverse. Dealing with this diversity is a great challenge for teachers in general, including in science subjects. To face this challenge, all institutions involved in education should adapt their teaching and learning to linguistic diversity to foster student’s language competencies.Non-formal education, such as student laboratories, could enhance formal chemistry education and support students in learning the subject’s contents and acquiring language competencies. To this purpose, language-sensitive and language-supportive learning settings for different chemical topics and contexts are developed to enable all students to participate actively and foster language competencies. The learning settings are implemented and evaluated at the Ludwigsburg University of Education (Germany) using a cyclical approach based on Participatory Action Research. Data from 147 students from seven learning groups of various grade levels and school types were collected before and after they experienced the work in student laboratories. The focus was on students’ situational interests and their views on offered language-sensitive and language-supportive methods, tools, and activities. The data shows that the approach has a positive effect on students’ situational interest. Methods that were especially helpful for the students are filtered. On this basis, implications are drawn for the application to other non-formal education offers.
Someone Like Me: A Trial of Context-Responsive Science as a Mechanism to Promote Inclusion
Authors: Essex Jane , Ross Kirsty , Birnie Ingeborg
Published: March 2024

This paper provides evidence gathered from two suites of non-formal science activities that were intended to increase engagement in science by culturally diverse groups. Both studies involved the delivery of science activities that were designed, implemented and evaluated to show culturally contextualised science. The activities were run in two very different contexts (urban and very rural areas) and were designed to be of relevance to two distinctive cultural groups (those with links to South Asia, and those being educated through the medium of Gaelic, an indigenous minority language in Scotland), while also actively engaging with those beyond the target group. The link between language identity and culture was incorporated into the design of both sets of activities as well as the qualitative evaluation. The latter considers how the participants’ assessment of the interventions, implemented by writing or drawing on a blank postcard, was designed to provide unstructured responses and explores what the resulting data revealed about the impact of the interventions. The findings suggest that the set of activities that most strongly engaged participants on the value of diversity in the creation of scientific knowledge, as well as increasing their focus on the consequences of scientific activity, were those that facilitated a more exploratory approach to the subject matter. By contrast, activities that had to be done according to a standard scientific protocol produced growth in subject-specific knowledge. The present paper explores the principles of the inclusive pedagogies that informed the design of the activities and discusses how these were operationalised in two very contrasting cultural contexts. The key finding was that presenting science as social practice, rather than as being socially neutral, is key to promoting engagement, along with the benefits of explicitly demonstrating the relevance of science to participants’ daily lives.
Innovative Learning Activities for Ethnically Diverse Students in Macedonian Science Education
Authors: Rusevska Katerina , Barandovski Lambe , Petruševski Vladimir , Naumoska Aleksandra , Tofilovska Slavica , Stojanovska Marina
Published: March 2024

A game-based approach is widely used to increase students’ motivation through their active participation, whereby research is interwoven with fun and competition is incorporated with cooperation. Working in teams or groups encourages students to exchange their opinions, to try to find solutions together or to win a game. In this way, they learn and improve skills such as collaboration and responsibility. Several activities involving the 5E model as part of inquiry-based science education and an escaperoom as part of game-based learning were used in science classes (chemistry, biology and physics). The activities were designed on three different topics – gases, ecology and electrical circuits – within the project “Diversity in Science towards Social Inclusion – Non-formal Education in Science for Students’ Diversity”. The activities focused on the students’ self-concept towards science, interest in the subject, motivation and careeraspirations in STEM, as well as the effectiveness of the implemented activities. The study aimed to assess the potential advantages of implementing activities in an ethnically diverse environment, benefiting both students and teachers. Pre- and post-questionnaires were designed and distributed to 190 students from various primary and secondary schools in Macedonia. The present paper provides an overview of game-based activities as well as a brief analysis of the pre- and post-questionnaire responses fromstudents, focusing on the topic of ecology.
AWS SERVERLESS MESSAGING USING SQS
Authors:   Engineering Manager, Clara Analytics, USA, Ashutosh Tripathi
Published: March 2024

In the dynamic and rapidly evolving realm of cloud computing, messaging stands as a pivotal element in constructing resilient and high-performing serverless applications. AWS offers a range of services facilitating seamless communication among various application components, including AWS Lambda, Simple Queue Service (SQS), and event-driven architectures. Within this detailed guide, we will delve into the diverse facets of messaging within AWS serverless environments, showcasing its capacity to empower developers in crafting scalable and robust applications.
THE IMPORTANCE OF USER-GENERATED CONTENT IN TOURISM EVENTS FOR CREATING ENGAGEMENT
Authors: Gómez-Aguilella María-José
Published: March 2024

Objective: The objective of this study is to investigate engagement with the aim of knowing the impact that user-generated content has on it.

 

Theoretical Framework: Laroche et al. (2012) revealed that social networking communities promote shared awareness, society's obligation, rites and traditions, trust, and customer loyalty. A year later, Brodie et al. (2013) specified the reach of consumers in online participation suggesting that consumers with a good level of engagement present greater loyalty.

 

Method: The methodology adopted for this research comprises Extensive field work was carried out by administering a questionnaire to tourists who visited the events during the holiday week. Data collection was carried out through questionnaires and social network studies.

 

Results and Discussion: The results obtained revealed the strong relationship between variables, especially between engagement and user generated contents.

 

Research Implications: The results may be applied and influence practices in the field of tourism and also in other fields.

 

Originality/Value: The study makes a specific contribution to literature, because the proposed model is innovative especially with the introduction of engagement as a mediator variable, as well as to use and compare two methodologies, questionnaires and Twitter, for the same tourism event.
Heart Health Through Play
Authors:   , de Agrella Katelyn
Published: March 2024

This thesis proposal addresses the global heart health crisis and focuses on improving heart health in New Zealand, particularly within the built environment. The research findings demonstrate that designers can enhance heart health by creating urban and architectural public spaces with playful atmospheres, a community focus, and physical activity and stress reduction opportunities. Through a comprehensive approach, including exploration of theory and case studies, the study site and design led the research at different scales. The thesis ensures a contextual solution to improved heart health in urban and architectural realms. Playful design tools, such as sensory and community-oriented approaches, successfully promote physical activity and reduce stress. The findings are validated through various testing methods, including theoretical research, case studies, and participatory research. The importance of urban interventions, sensory design, and inclusive community design is highlighted. The research emphasizes mixed land use, accessibility, and the transformation of underutilized public spaces into human-centred environments. In conclusion, this thesis proposal provides significant urban and architectural findings applicable to Nelson and other small cities, offering practical strategies for improving heart health, urban vitality, and community well-being through playful design strategies.
Modification of Biodegradable Polymer Nanofibers for Cartilage Tissue Engineering Applications: A Review
Authors: Shanmugam Kirubanandan
Published: March 2024

Tissue engineering is the use of a combination of cells, engineering and materials methods, and suitable biochemical and physiochemical factors to improve or replace biological functions at the injured site. The designing of a biomaterial that can mimic the three-dimensional tissues in vivo is still challenging. Biodegradable polymers are used for the development of tissue engineering constructs in the form of sponges, films, and macroporous scaffolds, which do not influence cell fate processes such as cell differentiation, migration, and proliferation. Biodegradable polymer nanofibers fabricated by electrospinning have gathered great attention in tissue engineering applications. The electrospun materials have a nanofibrous morphology that is closest to the natural extracellular matrix (ECM). The electrospun material is composed of three-dimensional networks of nanosized fibrous materials that mimic an extracellular matrix such as collagen, elastin, and keratin. These polymers fabricated in the form of fibers in nanosize cause a more favorable microenvironment for cells. We prepared the PLGA/PPG (polylactic-co-glycolic acid/polypropylene glycol) nanofibers by electrospinning technique. PLGA (85:15)/PLGA (75:25) nanofibers are hydrophobic, which can be minimized by the addition of PPG to give better hydrophilicity for cell adhesion for tissue engineering constructs. The morphology of the electrospun fibers of the composite of PLGA and PPG was observed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results proved that the small amount of polypropylene glycol polymer to the polylactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA 85:15) drastically improves the hydrophilicity of the electrospun nanofibers. The addition of a small amount of hydrophilic polymer to the biodegradable hydrophobic polymer increases the hydrophilic property and can be used for nanofiber-based tissue engineering constructs. In addition, the biomimetic approach for tissue engineering scaffolds for cartilage repair has been discussed.
The Impact of Toe Amputation on the Quality of Life of Diabetic Foot Patients: A Cardiff Wound Impact Schedule (CWIS) Evaluation
Authors: Zou Linxuan , Wang Xingkai , Zhang Zhe , Yang Tianke , Zong Junwei
Published: March 2024

Background: The treatment and management of diabetic foot significantly impact the quality of life (QoL) of patients, yet studies concerning the effects of toe amputation on QoL are relatively limited. Methods: This study included 12 diabetic foot patients with Wagner Grade 4 who underwent toe amputation. Using the Cardiff Wound Impact Schedule (CWIS), we systematically assessed their QoL before and after the surgery. Results: Data indicated that there were significant improvements in multiple areas of QoL post-surgery. Particularly in the domains of “overall quality of life” and “well-being,” average scores demonstrated noticeable declines compared to pre-surgery levels. Statistical analysis further confirmed the significance of these results. Conclusion: Toe amputation holds significant value in enhancing the QoL for diabetic foot patients. This study provides robust evidence for clinical decision-making, emphasizing that treatment choices should consider the QoL of the patient in addition to physiological outcomes.
A Study on the Communication Strategy of the Image of Dabu in Zhuang Folk Stories under the Background of the New Era
Authors: Zhu Qianyi , Liu Danya
Published: March 2024

A Piece of Zhuang Brocade (Yi Fu Zhuang Jin) is a highly representative folk tale of the Zhuang people in Guangxi. The image of the heroine, Dabu, embodies the indomitable pursuit of happiness and the sacrificial spirit of dedication among the Zhuang people, showcasing the unique charm of Chinese traditional folk culture. In the context of the new era, the dissemination and development of Dabu’s image present both opportunities and challenges. Therefore, it is necessary to follow current trends, adhere to the themes and aesthetics of the times, seek ways to highlight Dabu’s character traits and cultural expression, and seize the opportunity to integrate modern elements and culture to promote the exemplary image of Zhuang women.
ANALISIS POTENSI DAUR ULANG SAMPAH DOMESTIK KABUPATEN SOLOK SELATAN
Authors: Fauzi Mhd. , Aziz Rizki , Darnas Yeggi , Chyntia Nanda
Published: March 2024

AbstrakPerkembangan ekonomi yang semakin pesat diiringi pertumbuhan penduduk menyebabkan meningkatnya timbulan sampah. Data timbulan dan karakteristik sampah yang terbatas akan membuat pemerintah kesulitan detalam mengembangkan program pengelolaan sampah yang efisien dan berkelanjutan. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengukur dan menganalisis data satuan timbulan, timbulan, komposisi, karakteristik dan potensi daur ulang sampah domestik di Kabupaten Solok Selatan. SNI 19-3964-1994 dijadikan sebagai acuan sampling timbulan dan penentuan jumlah sampel. Pengambilan sampel dilakukan pada 90 titik meliputi 30 titik untuk high income (HI), 45 medium income (MI) dan 15 low income (LI) yang dibagi menjadi 3 kawasan selama 8 hari berturut-turut. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan satuan timbulan rata-rata sampah domestik sebesar 0,347 kg/o/hari dalam satuan berat dan 2,084 liter/o/hari dalam satuan volume. Timbulan sampah domestik yang dihasilkan sebesar 55,85 ton/hari dalam satuan berat atau 336,10 m3/hari dalam satuan volume. Komposisi sampah terbesar adalah sampah organik yaitu >82%, dengan komponen terbesar adalah sampah sisa makanan. Berdasarkan pengujian karakteristik sampah domestik Kabupaten Solok Selatan ini layak untuk dilakukan pengomposan. Potensi daur ulang sampah domestik untuk sampah kertas, plastik, kaca, logam non ferrous dan sampah makanan adalah sebesar 49,98%, 64,19%, 64,65%, 82,48% dan 89,95% dari total timbulan sampah.Kata kunci: Kabupaten Solok Selatan, potensi daur ulang, sampah domestikAbstractWaste production rises as a result of population growth and rapid economic development. It will be challenging for the government to create an effective and sustainable waste management program due to the lack of data on waste generation and characteristics. This study intends to quantify and examine the generation unit, generation, composition, characteristic, and possibilities for recycling of domestic waste in South Solok Districts. The reference used to calculate the number of samples and generation sampling is SNI 19-3964-1994. 90 points, divided into 3 zones for 8 consecutive days, were used for sampling, comprising 30 points for high income (HI), 45 points for medium income, and 15 points for low income (LI). The findings indicated that the average domestic waste generation unit was 2.084 liters/o/day in volume and 0.347 kg/o/day in weight. The amount of domestic waste produced each day is 55.85 tons of weight or 336.10 m3 in volume. Over 82% of waste is organic waste, with food waste making up the majority of this category. Composting is possible based on an analysis of the domestic waste from the South Solok Districts. Paper, plastic, glass, non-ferrous metals, and food waste have a possibilities for recycling of 49.98%, 64.19%, 64.65%, 82.48%, and 89.95% of the total waste generated.Â Keywords: South Solok Districts, possibilities for recycling, domestic waste
Penerapan Media Multiply Cards Dalam Meningkatkan Hasil Belajar Matematika Materi Perkalian Pada Siswa Kelas IV SDN 31 Tumampua V Kecamatan Pangkajene Kabupaten Pangkep
Authors: Islamiyah Putri Suci , Ardiansyah Muhammad , Syam Nur Hasni
Published: March 2024

Kurangnya variasi penggunaan media pembelajaran dan model pembelajaran yang digunakan guru dalam pembelajaran matematika menyebabkan rendahnya hasil belajar matematika siswa. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk meningkatkan pelajaran matematika materi operasi hitung kelas IV SD. Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian peningkatan yang menggunakan model penelitian tindakan kelas (classroom action research)yang merupakan bentuk kajian yang sistematik reflektif oleh pelaku tin-dakan yang dilakukan untuk meningkatkan kemampuan rasional dan tindakan mereka dalam melaksanakan tugas, memperdalam pemahaman terhadap Tinda-kan-tindakan yang dilakukannya itu, serta memperbaiki kondisi pembelajaran. Penelitian tindakan kelas bersifat reflektif artinya dalam proses penelitian, guru sekaligus sebagai peneliti yang memikirkan apa dan mengapa suatu tindakan terjadi di kelas, dari pemikiran itu kemudian guru mencari pemecahannya melalui tinda-kan-tindakan tertentu. Penelitian tindakan kelas adalah penelitian yang dilakukan dengan tujuan memperbaiki mutu praktik pembelajaran di kelas, yang erat kaitannya dengan murid dan proses belajar mengajar di kelas. Tujuan utama PTK adalah me-mecahkan permasalahan nyata yang terjadi di kelas dan meningkatkan kegiatan nyata guru dalam pengembangan profesionalnya. Penelitian ini melibatkan kegiatan berulang yaitu: (1) perencanaan, (2) pelaksanaan/tindakan, observasi/evaluasi, (3) refleksi, dan (4) perencanaan ulang. Tindakan dalam penelitian ini akan dilaksanakan secara berkesinambungan berdasarkan kriteria penelitian tindakan kelas yang dirumuskan.
NON-WORKING TIME OF THE PRINCIPAL OF THE KYIV SCHOOL UNDER THE CONDITIONS OF MARTIAL LAW
Authors: Lynov Kostiantyn , Sabol Diana
Published: March 2024

The article was written based on the results of a study that was conducted in January-February 2024 among the directors of two capital districts – Solomyanskyi and Desnyanskyi. The goal was to find out the level of resource status of the head of the school in his free time from work in the conditions of martial law. Does he have the opportunity to maintain a balance between workload and rest so that there is enough resource for work? Does the director deal with burnout prevention? These questions are the subject of research. The priority for the head of a capital school under martial law is work, his professional activity. At the same time, he is faced with significant, first of all, psychological burdens, but does not pay enough attention to those measures aimed at restoring the personality and its energy potential. Two-thirds of respondents feel that they have a low level of energy for life after the working day, and almost 15% of them record a state of exhaustion. A third of the respondents have signs of burnout. The answers of the respondents indicate that the problem of resource recovery and accumulation is perceived by school leaders as a necessary solution. During the period of martial law, it is more important for the head of the school to take care of his mental health, prevention of burnout, acquisition of vitality, and resource conservation than during a normal period of peace. From the managerial point of view, there is a need to return to the normalization of working hours for educators, redistribution of powers within the school team, based on real autonomy (primarily organizational) recorded in domestic legislation.
THE THEME OF CAPTIVITY IN THE JOURNALISM AND PROSE OF K.M. SIMONOV, M.A. SHOLOKHOV AND I.G. EHRENBURG 1941-1942
Authors:   Moscow Pedagogical State University, Pol Dmitry
Published: March 2024

During the most difficult first two years of the war, in the context of the Soviet leadership's unequivocal condemnation of captivity, addressing this topic was not encouraged by the party organs. Nevertheless, by circumventing unspoken prohibitions, literature contributed to the softening of state policy. K.M. Simonov, M.A. Sholokhov and I.G. Ehrenburg, three completely different writers, were united in their defence of the right to humanity and justice towards former prisoners of war, which indirectly contributed to a softening of the state's attitude towards them.
THE INFLUENCE OF ISLAMIC LEADERSHIP AND ORGANIZATIONAL CULTURE ON EMPLOYEES PERFORMANCE OF AGENCY SHARIAH FINANCE
Authors: Efrina Lisa
Published: March 2024

Competition in the increasingly fierce of globalization era requires agencies or companies to continue to improve their performance in improving the performance of their employees by creating a pleasant and equal work environment between members of the organization. This research aims to examine the influence of Islamic leadership and organizational culture on employee performance. This research was conducted at sharia multi-finance company. The sampling method in this research is the saturated method. sampling of 35 respondents. Data analysis used the SPSS program with multiple regression analysis. The research results show that Islamic leadership has a positive influence on employee performance. What leaders do becomes an example and model for their subordinates. Leadership also requires the totality of its subordinates to work optimally to support maximum performance improvement. Leaders have also shown the same attitudes, thoughts and work patterns, while the organizational culture has not. affect employee performance. because the indication is that every employee is still guided by the old culture without disrupting performance. Furthermore, Islamic leadership and organizational culture variables simultaneously have a positive effect on employee performance. This variable does have a strong relationship. Organizational culture will not be created without a leader who is of course followed by organizational members.