Research papers

Differential Semigroups of Automaton Perturbations and Incremental Syntactic Reconstruction

Michael Nsikan John, Okeke Ikenna Stephen, Robert Akerejola F., Alhassan, C. J.

This paper investigates the enumeration of elements in three classes of signed partial transformation semigroups, namely the partial signed order-preserving semigroup (PSPO_n), the partial signed order-decreasing semigroup (PSPD_n), and the partial signed order-preserving-or-order-reversing semigroup (PSPOD_n). Previous computations provide the initial cardinality sequences [ |PSPO_n| = 1, 13, 133, 1281, \ldots, ] [ |PSPD_n| = 1, 9, 81, 819, \ldots, ] and [ |PSPOD_n| = 1, 16, 209, 2302, \ldots, ] for (1 \leq n \leq 4). A numerical inconsistency in the reported data for (PSPD_4) is examined: the component values (191) and (700) sum to (891), whereas the reported cardinality is (819). Consequently, if the stated total (819) is retained, the corresponding first component must be (119). To provide a systematic framework for extending these finite enumerations, we define the cardinality functions [ A_n = |PSPO_n|, \qquad B_n = |PSPD_n|, \qquad C_n = |PSPOD_n|, ] and introduce the polarity-based enumeration function [ \mathcal{P}_{S}(n) ================== N_{S}^{-}(n) + N_{S}^{\ast}(n), \qquad S \in {O,D,OD}. ] A refined domain-rank enumeration framework is proposed as [ \mathcal{P}_{S}(n) ================== \sum_{k=1}^{n} \binom{n}{k} \sum_{r=1}^{k} E_{S}(n,k,r), ] where (E_{S}(n,k,r)) represents the number of admissible signed partial transformations of domain size (k) and rank (r) satisfying the structural condition (S). Using Newton finite-difference interpolation on the known cardinalities, computational formulae are obtained as [ \widehat{A}_n ============= 1 * 12\binom{n-1}{1} * 108\binom{n-1}{2} * 920\binom{n-1}{3}, ] [ \widehat{B}_n ============= 1 * 8\binom{n-1}{1} * 64\binom{n-1}{2} * 602\binom{n-1}{3}, ] and [ \widehat{C}_n ============= 1 * 15\binom{n-1}{1} * 178\binom{n-1}{2} * 1722\binom{n-1}{3}. ] These expressions reproduce exactly the available cardinalities for (1 \leq n \leq 4) and provide a systematic procedure for generating conjectural values for larger (n). The interpolated expressions are distinguished from exact semigroup enumeration formulae and are therefore treated as computational conjectures pending verification from the defining transformation conditions. The resulting framework provides a basis for computational enumeration, recurrence analysis, conjecture testing, and the subsequent derivation of exact closed-form counting formulae for these finite signed partial transformation semigroups.

Homomorphism Counting, Fuzzy Group Actions and Conjugacy-Based Cryptography in Finite Algebraic Structures

Michael Nsikan John

The interaction between finite algebraic structures and cryptographic systems motivates the search for unified frameworks that can connect homomorphism enumeration, quotient constructions, fuzzy algebraic actions, and conjugacy-class methods. In this paper, a structural framework is developed for finite groups acting on near-rings and for homomorphic images that induce modular B-algebras. The paper is motivated by previous works of the author on B-algebras generated by modulo integer groups, conjugacy-class key agreement, fuzzy group actions on near-rings, and homomorphism enumeration from the quaternion group. We define homomorphic complexity indices, fuzzy stabilizer indices, conjugacy complexity indices, and induced modular B-algebra invariants. Several results are proved: kernels of homomorphisms act trivially under induced actions; cyclic homomorphic images give canonical B-algebras; fuzzy stabilizers are subgroups; orbit-stabilizer relations persist in the fuzzy-invariant setting; and conjugacy-based key agreement can be interpreted through commuting subgroups and algebraic invariants. Examples involving cyclic groups, the quaternion group, dihedral groups, and nilpotent groups illustrate the theory. The framework gives a mathematical basis for combining quotient-based algebra, fuzzy symmetry, and conjugacy structures in the analysis of algebraic cryptographic protocols.

Bridging culture and science: Culturo-Techno-Contextual Approach in culturally relevant biology pedagogy

Umar A. Adam, Musa Adekunle Ayanwale, Soladoye N. Lameed, Tunde Owolabi, Franklin U. Onowugbeda, Adekunle I. Oladejo, Peter …

As science educators seek innovative methods to engage students, the Culturo-Techno-Contextual Approach (CTCA) has emerged as a promising strategy, particularly for African students. CTCA is a culturally responsive teaching method that integrates culture, technology, and locational context, making science more relatable and meaningful. We assessed CTCA’s effectiveness in enhancing critical thinking in biology among 121 senior secondary students in Lagos State. An explanatory sequential design was used, with the experimental group taught using CTCA and the control group receiving traditional instruction. Data were collected using the Critical Thinking Test in Nutrition (a = 0.80) and interviews. Results showed a significant improvement in critical thinking for the CTCA group (F(1, 198) = 11.43; p < 0.05), with no significant gender differences (F(1,49) = .49; p > .05). Students responded positively to intervention, leading to the conclusion that CTCA effectively enhances critical thinking in biology; hence, adoption of CTCA in biology instruction is recommended.

Biology Learning Innovation Using Booklet Media

Andi Muhammad Abrianto, Ijeoma A. Amaefuna, Agbo Felicia Onyemowo

Purpose of the study: This study aims to develop booklet-based learning media for the 11th grade Biology subject, as well as to measure the level of validity and effectiveness of the media in improving the learning of Biology for 11th grade students. Methodology: This study uses a development research method with a 4-D approach (define, design, development, disseminate). The subjects of the study were students of class 11 MIA I at Islamic high school Madani Pao-Pao (24 students) and State Islamic High School 1 Makassar (35 students). Data collection techniques were through observation, interviews, and documents. Data were analyzed qualitatively with descriptive presentation. Main Findings: The results of the study showed that the developed booklet-based learning media received validation with an average of 3.5, which means it is very valid. Field trials at Islamic high school Madani Pao-Pao and State Islamic High School 1 Makassar showed that this media was effective, with an average implementation value of 3.6 and 3.1, which were included in the good and very good categories. Positive responses from teachers and students stated that booklets helped increase learning motivation and facilitated understanding of the material. Novelty/Originality of this study: The novelty of this research lies in the development of booklet-based learning media that integrates material summaries with relevant images and quizzes to train students' critical thinking skills. This media is also designed to increase learning motivation through an attractive and practical display, and is adjusted to the curriculum and needs of Islamic high school students.

Nursing in the Digital Age: Harnessing telemedicine for enhanced patient care

Aanuoluwapo Clement David-Olawade, David B. Olawade, Iyanuoluwa Oreofe Ojo, Motunrayo E. Famujimi, Temitope T. Olawumi, Debo…

Telemedicine has emerged as a transformative force in contemporary healthcare, reshaping nursing practice across various specialties. This narrative review explored the role, challenges, and ethical considerations associated with telemedicine in nursing practice. Also, it emphasizes telemedicine’s impact on patient care, the evolution of nursing workflows, and future directions for implementation. A comprehensive narrative review was conducted, drawing upon primary research articles, systematic reviews, and policy documents published between 2010 and 2023. The search was carried out using electronic databases, including PubMed, ScienceDirect, CINAHL, and Google Scholar, employing keywords such as "telemedicine," "nursing practice," "patient care," and "ethical considerations." Eligible studies were critically appraised for relevance and rigor. Data synthesis included the identification of key themes, trends, and exemplary instances of telemedicine utilization in nursing practice. The review revealed a multifaceted role of telemedicine in nursing practice. Teletriage and remote patient monitoring were instrumental in reducing emergency department overcrowding and improving patient triage accuracy. Teleconsultations and virtual visits facilitated patient-provider interactions, while telepsychiatry addressed the growing demand for mental health support. Tele-education emerged as a vital tool for ongoing professional development among nurses. Moreover, telemedicine effectively reached rural and underserved populations, addressing healthcare disparities. Ethical considerations, such as patient privacy, informed consent, and data security, emerged as significant challenges in telemedicine. As telemedicine continues to evolve, nurses should remain adaptable, actively engaging with emerging technologies and interdisciplinary teams. Furthermore, healthcare organizations, policymakers, and nursing associations/regulatory bodies should collaborate to establish clear ethical and legal guidelines. These efforts will ensure the continued growth of telemedicine in nursing practice, ultimately enhancing patient outcomes and expanding access to quality healthcare services. • Telemedicine correlates with improved patient outcomes and higher satisfaction rates. • Nurses are pivotal in teletriage and remote patient monitoring initiatives. • Teleconsultations streamline care delivery, enhancing efficiency and accessibility. • Telepsychiatry bridges gaps in mental health services, catering to remote patients. • Teleeducation empowers nurses through accessible and flexible professional development.

Recent advances in Mushroom-mediated nanoparticles: A critical review of mushroom biology, nanoparticles synthesis, types, characteristics and applications

Naheem Adekilekun Tijani, Joseph Hokello, Kehinde Olusayo Awojobi, R. Marnadu, Mohd. Shkir, Zubair Ahmad, Abdullateef Opeyem…

SYNTHETIC BIOLOGY AND ITS POTENTIAL IN U.S. MEDICAL THERAPEUTICS: A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW: EXPLORING THE CUTTING-EDGE INTERSECTIONS OF BIOLOGY AND ENGINEERING IN DRUG DEVELOPMENT AND TREATMENTS

Francisca Chibugo Udegbe, Ogochukwu Roseline Ebulue, Charles Chukwudalu Ebulue, Chukwunonso Sylvester Ekesiobi

This study provides a comprehensive review of the cutting-edge intersections of biology and engineering in the realm of medical therapeutics, focusing on the advancements and applications of synthetic biology. The main objectives were to explore the historical evolution, define the scope, and analyze the current state-of-the-art in synthetic biology, particularly in drug development and treatment strategies. The methodology employed a systematic literature review and content analysis, utilizing a range of academic databases to gather relevant peer-reviewed articles published between 2013 and 2023. Key findings revealED that synthetic biology, through the integration of engineering principles and biological systems, has led to significant innovations in medical therapeutics. These include the development of novel drug delivery systems, targeted therapies, and personalized medicine approaches. The study highlights the challenges and limitations in current synthetic biology approaches, such as ethical concerns, regulatory hurdles, and the need for interdisciplinary collaboration. The future landscape of synthetic biology in medicine is marked by both challenges and prospects. The field holds immense potential for addressing complex diseases and enhancing healthcare delivery, yet faces significant challenges in ethical considerations and regulatory frameworks. Strategic recommendations are provided for researchers, industry leaders, and policymakers, emphasizing the need for continuous innovation, ethical applications, and comprehensive regulatory strategies. Finally, synthetic biology stands as a transformative force in medical therapeutics, with the potential to revolutionize healthcare. Future research should focus on overcoming current limitations and exploring new applications, ensuring the field's continued advancement and contribution to global healthcare. Keywords: Synthetic Biology, Medical Therapeutics, Drug Development, Bioengineering.

Cancer Biology and Therapeutics: Navigating Recent Advances and Charting Future Directions

Wisdom D. Cleanclay, Suleiman Zakari, Temidayo O. Adigun, Timothy O. Ayeni, Precious C. Nnaji, Amuji D. Nnenna, Azeez Bless…

Cancer, a multifaceted and heterogeneous ailment, persists as a substantial global public health concern. Recent strides in cancer biology have profoundly augmented our comprehension of the intricate genetic and molecular mechanisms underlying the inception and advancement of cancer. This headway has propelled the formulation of innovative therapeutic strategies, embracing targeted interventions and immunotherapies, which have showcased promising outcomes in clinical assessments. However, a multitude of obstacles continue to challenge the creation of efficacious and individualized cancer treatments. This systematic review encapsulates an extensive vista of contemporary advancements in cancer biology and therapeutics, accentuating pivotal breakthroughs in our grasp of cancer's intricacies, while illuminating the latest therapeutic avenues for cancer management. Moreover, the paper elaborates on the quest's upcoming trajectories in cancer research and treatment, encompassing burgeoning technologies and uncharted domains of inquiry that might pave the way for more efficacious and personalized interventions for individuals afflicted by cancer.

Tracing down the Updates on Dengue Virus—Molecular Biology, Antivirals, and Vaccine Strategies

Shiza Malik, Omar Ahsan, Hassan Mumtaz, Muhammad Tahir Khan, Ranjit Sah, Yasir Waheed

BACKGROUND: Nearly half of the world is at risk of developing dengue infection. Dengue virus is the causative agent behind this public healthcare concern. Millions of dengue cases are reported every year, leading to thousands of deaths. The scientific community is working to develop effective therapeutic strategies in the form of vaccines and antiviral drugs against dengue. METHODS: In this review, a methodological approach has been used to gather data from the past five years to include the latest developments against the dengue virus. RESULTS: Different therapeutics and antiviral targets against the dengue virus are at different stages of development, but none have been approved by the FDA. Moreover, various vaccination strategies have also been discussed, including attenuated virus vaccines, recombinant subunit vaccines, viral vector vaccines, DNA vaccines, nanotechnology, and plant-based vaccines, which are used to develop effective vaccines for the dengue virus. Many dengue vaccines pass the initial phases of evaluation, but only two vaccines have been approved for public use. DENGVAXIA is the only FDA-approved vaccine against all four stereotypes of the dengue virus, but it is licensed for use only in individuals 6-16 years of age with laboratory-confirmed previous dengue infection and living in endemic countries. Takeda is the second vaccine approved for use in the European Union, the United Kingdom, Brazil, Argentina, Indonesia, and Thailand. It produced sustained antibody responses against all four serotypes of dengue virus, regardless of previous exposure and dosing schedule. Other dengue vaccine candidates at different stages of development are TV-003/005, TDENV PIV, V180, and some DNA vaccines. CONCLUSION: There is a need to put more effort into developing effective vaccines and therapeutics for dengue, as already approved vaccines and therapeutics have limitations. DENGVAXIA is approved for use in children and teenagers who are 6-16 years of age and have confirmed dengue infection, while Takeda is approved for use in certain countries, and it has withdrawn its application for FDA approval.

Beyond the various contrivances by which orchids are pollinated: global patterns in orchid pollination biology

James D. Ackerman, Ryan D. Phillips, Raymond L. Tremblay, Adam P. Karremans, Noushka Reiter, Craig I. Peter, Diego Bogarín, …

Abstract Orchidaceae show remarkable diversity in pollination strategies, but how these strategies vary globally is not entirely clear. To identify regions and taxa that are data-rich and lend themselves to rigorous analyses or are data-poor and need attention, we introduce a global database of orchid reproductive biology. Our database contains &amp;gt; 2900 species representing all orchid subfamilies and 23 of 24 tribes. We tabulated information on habit, breeding systems, means of pollinator attraction and the identity of pollinators. Patterns of reproductive biology by habit, geography and taxonomy are presented graphically and analysed statistically. On the basis of our database, most orchid species sampled are pollinator dependent (76%) and self-compatible (88%). Pollinator attraction based on rewards occurs in 54% of the species, whereas 46% use some means of deceit. Orchids generally have highly specific pollinator interactions (median number of pollinator species = 1). Nonetheless, on average, specificity is lower for species offering rewards, occurring in multiple continental regions or Northern America (as defined by the Taxonomic Database Working Group Level 1 regions). Although our database reveals impressive knowledge gains, extensive gaps in basic observations of orchid reproductive biology exist, particularly in tropical regions and diverse lineages of fly-pollinated species. The database is expected to facilitate targeted studies, further elucidating the ecological and evolutionary drivers of orchid diversity.

Causes and effects of theory-practice gap during clinical practice: the lived experiences of baccalaureate nursing students

Stella Ngozika Ugwu, Ngozi P. Ogbonnaya, Veronica Chiegeiro Chijioke, Judith Njideka Esievo

PURPOSE: This study evaluated the baccalaureate nursing students' lived experiences of the causes and effects of TPG during clinical practice in a tertiary health institution in Enugu, Nigeria. METHOD: A qualitative design using existential descriptive phenomenological approach was adopted to explore 20 baccalaureate nursing students at 500 level of study. The class level of the students was purposively sampled and the exact number of students sampled using snowball technique. Semi-structured interview guide was the instrument for data collection. Data were collected using audio-tape recorder, face to face in depth discussions, and analyzed using qualitative thematic analysis. RESULT: Five broad themes and 12 subthemes emerged from this study namely: Resource constraints (limited resources, resource improvise); Unhealthy human attitudinal and behavioural factors (nurse clinicians, nurse educators, student nurses factors); Environmental system challenges (paradoxical academic design and structure, paradoxical clinical setting); Integration Inadequacy (team cooperation paucity, scarce surveillance, insufficient timing of clinical placement); Observing effects of TPG (observing adverse impacts, observing positive implications). CONCLUSION: The causes of TPG during clinical practice emerge from nursing education and practice. TPG have adverse impacts on patients, nursing students, nursing education and practice, other health practitioners, while linkage to response is its positive implication.

Invasiveness, biology, ecology, and management of the fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda

Marc Kenis, Giovanni Benelli, Antonio Biondi, Paul‐André Calatayud, Roger Day, Nicolas Desneux, Rhett D. Harrison, Darren J.…

la diffusion de documents scientifiques de niveau recherche, publis ou non, manant des tablissements d'enseignement et de recherche franais ou trangers, des laboratoires publics ou privs.

Effectiveness of Guided Inquiry and Open Inquiry Instructionals Strategies in Improving Biology Students’ Achievement

Adeyinka Olayemi Owolade, Marie Onovroghene Salami, Adeyinka Oluwaseun Kareem, Popoola Oluwasegun Oladipupo

In recent years, students' performance in Biology in the Senior Secondary Certificates Examination (SSCE) has not been encouraging. Studies have attributed fluctuating achievement of students in Biology to ineffective use of instructional strategies. If sustainable solution is not proffered to the issue of poor performance in Biology, it could hinder the fulfilment of educational goals for science, especially in the health sector. This study advocated the use of teaching strategies that will promote and encourage teachers to adopt learning strategies that will demand students to think critically and contribute effectively in class and the society at large. Therefore, this study was carried out to determined the effectiveness of guided and open inquiry instructional strategies on academic performance of secondary school students in Biology in Osun State. The non-equivalent pretest posttest quasi-experimental research design was used for the study. The population comprised all senior secondary school Biology students in Osun state. The sample consisted of Senior Secondary One (SS1) Biology students in their intact classes selected using multistage sampling procedure. Biology Achievement Test (BAT) was used to gather data for the study. Data collected were analysed using analysis of Covariance. From the study, the results showed that there was a significant difference between the experimental groups taught Biology using guided inquiry and open inquiry strategies, and the control group taught Biology using conventional method. Open inquiry strategy improve students' performance better than the other groups. Also, guided inquiry stimulate students' performance than conventional method. The study concluded that Open inquiry is a better teaching strategy; as it was more effective in improving the academic performance of students in Biology in the study area.

Fostering Critical Thinking Skills Using Integrated STEM Approach among Secondary School Biology Students

Akawo Angwal Yaki

Globally, critical thinking skills have been acknowledged as an important goal of education and integrated STEM-based approaches have been reported to have the potential to enhance critical thinking. Therefore, this study examined integrated STEM instructional material for genetic learning to increase secondary school biology students’ critical thinking skills. The study adopted a quasi-experimental design, specifically a pre-test-post-test control group design. The sample size was made up of 112 students, two schools were randomly selected and assigned to the experimental and control group. The experimental group was made up of 58 students and the control group was 54. An integrated STEM approach module was developed for the experimental group, critical thinking skill test was used for pre-test and post-test data. The instrument yielded a reliability of between 0.71 - 0.76 for all the subskills of critical thinking skills. The pre-test results in all critical thinking subskills of inference, recognizing assumption, deduction, interpretation, and evaluation Wilks’ ˄ = .93, F (5, 94) = 1.370, p = (.24) > 0.05, indicating that the two groups were equivalent in their critical thinking skills before treatment. The findings of the within-group comparison show that the experimental group shows a significant difference between pre-test and post-test with a large effect size (d2=1.56) compared to the control group with a small effect size (d2=0.01). The between-group comparison using MANOVA shows a significant difference in students’ critical thinking skills of inference, recognizing assumption, deduction, interpretation, and evaluating arguments (Wilks’ ˄ = .31, F (5,106) = .68, p = (0.00) < 0.05). Therefore, it can be concluded that an integrated STEM approach was more effective in enhancing students’ critical thinking skills.

Gene-Environment Interactions and Epigenetic Regulation in Autism Etiology through Multi-Omics Integration and Computational Biology Approaches

Paul Okugo Imoh, Idoko Peter Idoko

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a multifactorial neurodevelopmental condition characterized by substantial genetic heterogeneity and complex environmental influences. Emerging evidence suggests that gene-environment interactions, mediated through dynamic epigenetic mechanisms, play a critical role in modulating neurodevelopmental trajectories implicated in ASD. This review synthesizes current advances in understanding the etiological interplay between genetic variants, environmental exposures, and epigenetic regulation, with a focus on DNA methylation, histone modifications, and non-coding RNAs. We explore how these layers of molecular control intersect to dysregulate neurodevelopmental gene networks and contribute to ASD pathophysiology. Central to this investigation is the integration of multi-omics platforms— encompassing genomics, transcriptomics, epigenomics, proteomics, and metabolomics—supported by computational biology, machine learning, and systems-level modeling frameworks. These technologies facilitate the identification of molecular subtypes, predictive biomarkers, and regulatory circuits associated with ASD. Furthermore, we examine the translational implications of these findings in the context of precision medicine, including early diagnosis, patient stratification, and individualized therapeutic development. Despite the challenges of data heterogeneity, scalability, and interpretability, the integration of high-dimensional biological data holds transformative potential for elucidating ASD etiology and advancing targeted interventions.

Review of Particle Physics

Particle Data Group, Ronald Workman, Volker Burkert, V. Credé, E. Klempt, U. Thoma, L. Tiator, Kaustubh Agashe, G. Aielli, B…

Abstract The Review summarizes much of particle physics and cosmology. Using data from previous editions, plus 2,143 new measurements from 709 papers, we list, evaluate, and average measured properties of gauge bosons and the recently discovered Higgs boson, leptons, quarks, mesons, and baryons. We summarize searches for hypothetical particles such as supersymmetric particles, heavy bosons, axions, dark photons, etc. Particle properties and search limits are listed in Summary Tables. We give numerous tables, figures, formulae, and reviews of topics such as Higgs Boson Physics, Supersymmetry, Grand Unified Theories, Neutrino Mixing, Dark Energy, Dark Matter, Cosmology, Particle Detectors, Colliders, Probability and Statistics. Among the 120 reviews are many that are new or heavily revised, including a new review on Machine Learning, and one on Spectroscopy of Light Meson Resonances. The Review is divided into two volumes. Volume 1 includes the Summary Tables and 97 review articles. Volume 2 consists of the Particle Listings and contains also 23 reviews that address specific aspects of the data presented in the Listings. The complete Review (both volumes) is published online on the website of the Particle Data Group (pdg.lbl.gov) and in a journal. Volume 1 is available in print as the PDG Book. A Particle Physics Booklet with the Summary Tables and essential tables, figures, and equations from selected review articles is available in print, as a web version optimized for use on phones, and as an Android app.

Oilseed Crops - Uses, Biology and Production

Mirza Hasanuzzaman, Kamrun Nahar

This book contains six comprehensive chapters addressing various aspects of oilseed crop biology, production and use. The contributions summarize recent findings on oilseed crop responses to the environment, with a particular focus on rapeseed biology and stress tolerance. This book will be useful for undergraduate and graduate students, teachers, and researchers, particularly in the fields of agronomy and crop science.

Efficient numerical techniques for computing the Riesz fractional-order reaction-diffusion models arising in biology

Manal Alqhtani, Kolade M. Owolabi, Khaled M. Saad, Edson Pindza

Influence of teachers’ self-efficacy on secondary school students’ self-efficacy in biology in Ogbomoso, Nigeria

Mulkah Adebisi Ahmed, A. A. Lawal, Rihanat Aduke Ahmed

It is widely proven by several studies that efficacy is an important factor in the teaching-learning process. Therefore, the goal of this study was to examine whether teachers’ self-efficacy contributes to the development of students’ self-efficacy in Biology. This study was a descriptive research with survey type which used proportionate and stratified sampling techniques to select 98 secondary schools in Ogbomoso, Nigeria. Proportionate, purposive, and simple random sampling techniques were used to select 207 biology teachers and 392 SSS I and II biology students based on gender. The data collected were analysed using mean scores, chi-square, and regression analysis at 0.05 level of significance. The findings revealed that: 1) there was a positive correlation between teachers’ self-efficacy and students’ self-efficacy in biology; 2) the level of teachers’ self-efficacy was moderately high; and 3) female students have higher self-efficacy than male students in biology. The study concluded that teachers’ self-efficacy influences their students’ self-efficacy. Thus, it is recommended that biology teachers should be responsible and pay more attention to the development of their students’ self-efficacy irrespective of students’ gender.

IOP Conference Series: Materials Science and Engineering

International Nuclear Science, Technology and Engineering Conference 2021 (iNuSTEC2021) “Nuclear Science and Technology for Socio-economic Development” Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) Skudai, Johor, Malaysia 10-12 October 2021 Editors Nahrul Khair Alang Md Rashid, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia Khaidzir Hamzah, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia Mohsin Mohd Sies, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia Jasman Zainal, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia Muhammad Arif Sazali, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia Muhammad Syahir Sarkawi, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia Nur Syazwani Mohd Ali, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia Khairulnadzmi Jamaluddin, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia Abdul Aziz Mohamed, Malaysian Nuclear Society Faridah Mohamad Idris, Malaysian Nuclear Agency Julie Andrianny Murshidi, Malaysian Nuclear Agency Faizal K P Kunchi Mohamed, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Hassan Mohamed, Universiti Tenaga Nasional Abu Hassan Husin, Universiti Teknologi MARA All papers have been peer-reviewed List of Supporting/Sponsoring Organisations, Preface, Contents, iNuSTEC2021 Organising Committee, Inustec 2021 Awards And Recognition, Acknowledgement and Images are available in this pdf

Development and evaluation of an electronic nursing documentation system

Mohsen Shafiee, Mostafa Shanbehzadeh, Zeinab Nassari, Hadi Kazemi-Arpanahi

BACKGROUND: Nursing documentation is a critical aspect of the nursing care workflow. There is a varying degree in how detailed nursing reports are described in scientific literature and care practice, and no uniform structured documentation is provided. This study aimed to describe the process of designing and evaluating the content of an electronic clinical nursing documentation system (ECNDS) to provide consistent and unified reporting in this context. METHODS: A four-step sequential methodological approach was utilized. The Minimum Data Set (MDS) development process consisted of two phases, as follows: First, a literature review was performed to attain an exhaustive overview of the relevant elements of nursing and map the available evidence underpinning the development of the MDS. Then, the data included from the literature review were analyzed using a two-round Delphi study with content validation by an expert panel. Afterward, the ECNDS was developed according to the finalized MDS, and eventually, its performance was evaluated by involving the end-users. RESULTS: The proposed MDS was divided into administrative and clinical sections; including nursing assessment and the nursing diagnosis process. Then, a web-based system with modular and layered architecture was developed based on the derived MDS. Finally, to evaluate the developed system, a survey of 150 registered nurses (RNs) was conducted to identify the positive and negative impacts of the system. CONCLUSIONS: The developed system is suitable for the documentation of patient care in nursing care plans within a legal, ethical, and professional framework. However, nurses need further training in documenting patient care according to the nursing process, and in using the standard reporting templates to increase patient safety and improve documentation.

National surgical, obstetric, anaesthesia and nursing plan, Nigeria

Justina O. Seyi‐Olajide, Jamie E. Anderson, Omolara Williams, Omolara Faboya, Joseph O. Amedu, Stanley Anyanwu, Abraham Beth…

Recent evidence suggests that strengthening surgical care within existing health systems will strengthen the overall health-care system. However, Nigeria's national strategic health development plan 2018-2022 placed little emphasis on surgical care. To address the gap, we worked with professional societies and other partners to develop the national surgical, obstetric, anaesthesia and nursing plan 2019-2023. The aim was to foster actions to prioritize surgical care for the achievement of universal health coverage. In addition to creating a costed strategy to strengthen surgical care, the plan included children's surgery and nursing: two key aspects that have been neglected in other national surgical plans. Pilot implementation of the plan began in 2020, supported by a nongovernmental organization with experience in surgical care in the region. We have created specific entry points to facilitate the pilot implementation. In the pilot, an electronic surgery registry has been created; personnel are being trained in life support; nurses are being trained in safe perioperative care; biomedical technicians and sterile supplies nurses are being trained in surgical instrument repair and maintenance; and research capacity is being strengthened. In addition, the mainstream media are being mobilized to improve awareness about the plan among policy-makers and the general population. Another development partner is interested in providing support for paediatric surgery, and a children's hospital is being planned. As funding is a key challenge to full implementation, we need innovative domestic funding strategies to support and sustain implementation.

The naked truth: a comprehensive clarification and classification of current ‘myths’ in naked mole‐rat biology

Rochelle Buffenstein, Vincent Amoroso, Blazej Andziak, Stanislav Avdieiev, Jorge Azpurua, Alison J. Barker, Nigel C. Bennett…

The naked mole-rat (Heterocephalus glaber) has fascinated zoologists for at least half a century. It has also generated considerable biomedical interest not only because of its extraordinary longevity, but also because of unusual protective features (e.g. its tolerance of variable oxygen availability), which may be pertinent to several human disease states, including ischemia/reperfusion injury and neurodegeneration. A recent article entitled 'Surprisingly long survival of premature conclusions about naked mole-rat biology' described 28 'myths' which, those authors claimed, are a 'perpetuation of beautiful, but falsified, hypotheses' and impede our understanding of this enigmatic mammal. Here, we re-examine each of these 'myths' based on evidence published in the scientific literature. Following Braude et al., we argue that these 'myths' fall into four main categories: (i) 'myths' that would be better described as oversimplifications, some of which persist solely in the popular press; (ii) 'myths' that are based on incomplete understanding, where more evidence is clearly needed; (iii) 'myths' where the accumulation of evidence over the years has led to a revision in interpretation, but where there is no significant disagreement among scientists currently working in the field; (iv) 'myths' where there is a genuine difference in opinion among active researchers, based on alternative interpretations of the available evidence. The term 'myth' is particularly inappropriate when applied to competing, evidence-based hypotheses, which form part of the normal evolution of scientific knowledge. Here, we provide a comprehensive critical review of naked mole-rat biology and attempt to clarify some of these misconceptions.

The integrative biology of genetic dominance

Sylvain Billiard, Vincent Castric, Violaine Llaurens

Dominance is a basic property of inheritance systems describing the link between a diploid genotype at a single locus and the resulting phenotype. Models for the evolution of dominance have long been framed as an opposition between the irreconcilable views of Fisher in 1928 supporting the role of largely elusive dominance modifiers and Wright in 1929, who viewed dominance as an emerging property of the structure of enzymatic pathways. Recent theoretical and empirical advances however suggest that these opposing views can be reconciled, notably using models investigating the regulation of gene expression and developmental processes. In this more comprehensive framework, phenotypic dominance emerges from departures from linearity between any levels of integration in the genotype-to-phenotype map. Here, we review how these different models illuminate the emergence and evolution of dominance. We then detail recent empirical studies shedding new light on the diversity of molecular and physiological mechanisms underlying dominance and its evolution. By reconciling population genetics and functional biology, we hope our review will facilitate cross-talk among research fields in the integrative study of dominance evolution.