Background The measurement of professional competency in school counseling remains methodologically constrained by fragmented domain assessment and heavy reliance on classical test theory approaches. There is a critical need for an empirically calibrated instrument that integrates regulatory competency standards with expanded theoretical domains while ensuring measurement precision and structural coherence. This study developed and validated a multidimensional instrument of professional competency for school counselors using Rasch analysis. Methods A cross-sectional instrumental design was implemented. The instrument was constructed across seven domains: assessment, development of guidance and counseling program, implementation of guidance and counseling services, evaluation of guidance and counseling program, supervision of pre-service counselor training, continuous professional development, and collaborative engagement in co-curricular programs. Seventy-one items were rated on a five-point Likert scale. Data from 93 practicing school counselors were analyzed using the Rasch Rating Scale Model. Analyses included the evaluation of category functioning, item and person fit statistics, reliability and separation indices, and principal component analysis of residuals (PCAR) to assess construct dimensionality. Results The Rasch model demonstrated acceptable item fit and ordered rating scale thresholds. The raw variance explained by measures was 53.4%, with 6.7% unexplained variance in the first contrast, indicating a dominant latent construct despite the multidomain theoretical structure. Item difficulty estimates ranged from −1.68 to +1.71 logits, forming a hierarchical continuum from foundational service practices to advanced supervisory and professional roles. Reliability and separation indices indicated stable item calibration and adequate differentiation among levels of professional competency. Conclusions The findings support the preliminary evidence of structural validity, hierarchical calibration, and measurement precision of the instrument within a unified Rasch framework. The instrument provides a methodologically robust basis for professional assessment, supervision, and competency-based development in school counseling contexts, with significant potential for further validation across diverse educational systems.
Background While the strategic importance of Social Responsibility Accounting (SRA) is well-established for large corporations, its antecedents and firm-level outcomes in the context of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) in emerging economies remain critically under-explored. This study develops and empirically tests an integrated theoretical model examining the key drivers of SRA implementation and its subsequent impact on firm performance and access to finance among SMEs in Vietnam. Methods Employing a sequential exploratory mixed-method design, qualitative interviews with nine experts informed the development of a survey instrument, which was then used to collect quantitative data from 362 SMEs in the Mekong Delta region. The proposed model was analyzed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM). Results: The results confirm that stakeholder pressure, leadership commitment, accounting department competence, and export orientation are significant positive drivers of SRA implementation. In turn, SRA implementation was found to be a strong and significant predictor of both enhanced firm performance and improved access to finance. Conclusions This study provides a comprehensive empirical examination of the SRA ecosystem within SMEs in an emerging market. It offers a nuanced understanding of why SMEs adopt SRA and confirms its strategic role as a mediating mechanism in improving both operational and financial outcomes.
Generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) is rapidly reshaping higher education, yet dominant approaches to AI-enabled learning often treat language as a neutral medium of interaction rather than a constitutive dimension of learning, identity, knowledge construction, and educational participation. This assumption is particularly problematic in African higher education, where multilingualism, code-switching, linguistic hierarchies, and unequal recognition of indigenous languages shape students’ educational experiences. This conceptual paper advances Linguistically Responsive Generative AI (LR-GAI) as a theoretical construct and develops a theory of how linguistic responsiveness can shape the educational value of GenAI in multilingual contexts. Drawing on Sociocultural Theory, Translanguaging Theory, and the Capability Approach, the paper argues that access to GenAI does not necessarily translate into equitable educational capability when learners’ linguistic repertoires are poorly accommodated by AI systems. It distinguishes linguistic responsiveness from simple multilingual processing or translation and conceptualises LR-GAI through five interrelated dimensions: linguistic accessibility, multilingual responsiveness, semantic and cultural contextualisation, pedagogical responsiveness, and linguistic agency. The paper proposes the Linguistic Mediation Proposition, which posits that the educational value of GenAI is partly determined by the alignment between learners’ linguistic repertoires and the linguistic responsiveness of AI-mediated learning environments. From this proposition, the paper develops theoretically grounded propositions linking linguistic responsiveness to learner–AI interaction, knowledge construction, epistemic and linguistic agency, and educational participation. The resulting framework challenges language-neutral models of AI in education and provides a theoretical foundation for designing, evaluating, and governing GenAI systems that support linguistically diverse learners in African higher education.
Background Cognitive decline has become a common sign of mental ability loss in mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and dementia-related diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD). However, early detection is difficult because traditional diagnostic tools such as brain scans are expensive, time-consuming, and depend on experts. Existing machine learning models show high prediction scores; however, they are uninterpretable because their logic is hidden, which limits trust. Therefore, this study aimed to develop a reliable and interpretable tool named COGNEUTEST, a clinical support cognitive decline assessment system. Methods This study utilized a tuned Random Forest classification model trained on comprehensive clinical features from the National Alzheimer’s Coordinating Center (NACC) cohort dataset. This framework focuses on the top 26 features, including patient demographics, medical conditions, lifestyle, and influential cognitive variables, to predict the objective cognitive status results. To ensure clinical accountability, a state-of-the-art SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) technique was integrated to interpret each contribution. Results Experimental findings proved that tuned Random Forest showed the highest performance in identifying three cognitive classes, Normal Cognition, MCI and Alzheimer’s disease dementia, on the NACC dataset, which achieved 86.05% accuracy and an Area Under the Curve (AUC) of 0.9534. The system efficiently runs machine learning predictions and PDF report creation in an average of 13 s, and database lookups require less than 1 s. Conclusions This study contributes to the healthcare field by demonstrating the potential of providing a fast, transparent, and affordable assessment system that is accessible to low-income populations and clinics with limited budget. Limitations include reliance on a single cohort dataset and dependence on informant availability for Functional Activity Questionnaire (FAQ) variables. Future work should involve testing the model on other databases, exploring some deep learning models, and developing a separate model for cases in which a patient can perform self-testing at home.
Background Community engagement is widely recognised in research, yet in many African contexts, it remains procedural rather than meaningful, highlighting the need for approaches that foster genuine relationships. This is especially evident in indigenous knowledge systems research, where communities are often treated as sources of data instead of as partners. Such approaches can reinforce power imbalances and weaken trust. Ubuntu grounded in relationality, reciprocity, mutual respect and collective responsibility offers a cultural rooted lens for creative community engagement. This paper explores how Ubuntu can strengthen community engagement in indigenous Knowledge System research. Methods A conceptual research design was adopted, drawing on literature from Ubuntu philosophy, community engagement in research and indigenous knowledge Systems. Literature was drawn primary from Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar and SABINET, covering 2015–2026. An initial search of 10 200 studies was identified, with 10 studies returned for inclusion based on their relevance to the study. A thematic synthesis was undertaken to identify recurring principles, point of convergence and relationship across the literature. These concepts were integrated to develop a conceptual framework positioning Ubuntu as a guiding lens for meaningful community engagement. Results The conceptual synthesis indicates that Ubuntu provides an ethical and relational foundation for research. Its principles of respect, reciprocity, relationality and relational accountability support the co-creation of knowledge, shared decision-making, and sustained engagement. The framework highlights practical strategies such as early stakeholder involvement, collaboration with traditional leaders, knowledge holders, use of local languages, shared decision-making and community-centred dissemination. Discussion Ubuntu challenges extractive researcher-community relationships by emphasising mutual benefit, collective responsibility and respect for indigenous knowledge. Its application can contribute to more equitable and culturally responsive knowledge generation while supporting broader efforts to decolonise research and centre Afrocentric vales and lived realities. Conclusion Ubuntu provides a promising culturally grounded framework for strengthening meaningful community engagement in Indigenous Knowledge Systems research. By positioning communities as co-researcher and knowledge partners, it can shift engagement from procedural compliance towards relational practice. As a conceptual framework, it provides a foundation for empirical testing and practical application across diverse African research contexts.
Background Country risk for the business sector can manifest itself through higher financing costs, more restricted access to credit and adjustments to the capital structure; whilst international studies have identified effects on corporate investment and indebtedness, the relationships in the case of Peruvian mining companies, as well as the moderating role of profitability and the concentration of short-term debt, remain to be explored. Methods To this end, a quantitative, longitudinal and explanatory-predictive approach was adopted, using fixed-effects panel data models for each firm, comprising 210 firm-year observations. Results The findings revealed that country risk has followed an erratic trajectory, whilst financial solvency declined until 2016; the econometric results showed that the EMBI Peru had no significant effect on financial solvency (b = 0.0026; p = 0.964), financial leverage (b = −0.0019; p = 0.907) or the debt ratio (b = −0.0001; p = 0.995); nor were any significant moderating effects observed on profitability or debt concentration; only the exchange rate was significantly associated with financial solvency (β = −0.1022; p = 0.014) and with indebtedness (β = 0.0178; p = 0.033). Conclusion It is concluded that the transmission of sovereign risk to companies’ financial structures was neither direct nor uniform, and that exposure to exchange rate risk was a more significant factor in explaining the financial vulnerability of Peruvian mining companies.
Vocational education needs to adapt to the digitalization and sustainability challenges by introducing innovative learning models that combine flexibility, technology, and sustainability skills. Hybrid Flexible (HyFlex) learning has proven to be a successful model, but its potential in developing Green skills, occupational health and safety (OHS) competence and environmental sustainability awareness is yet to be thoroughly investigated, especially in the realm of smart learning ecosystems. This study used a sequential explanatory mixed methods design. Quantitative phase, a survey was conducted on 172 vocational education students who were analyzed using Partial Least Square Structural Equation Model (PLS-SEM) to test the relationship between HyFlex learning, smart learning ecosystem, learning engagement, and sustainability related outcomes. The qualitative phase involved using semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions to interpret and elaborate on the quantitative results, based on thematic analysis. The results show that the smart learning ecosystem (β = 0.68, p < 0.001) and learning engagement (β = 0.52, p < 0.001) are significant positive factors of HyFlex learning. Smart learning ecosystem and learning engagement, in turn, have a significant impact on green skills, OHS competence, and awareness of environmental sustainability. The direct impacts of HyFlex learning on outcomes related to sustainability, however, are relatively smaller and indicate that the impact of HyFlex learning is channelled through the smart learning ecosystem and learning engagement. Qualitative results also indicate that digital readiness, instructional design and hands-on learning practices are important determinants in the effectiveness of implementing HyFlex. This research shows that HyFlex learning is not enough to train learners on sustainability competency without the presence of a strong smart learning ecosystem and active participation of learners. The results show the need to combine technological infrastructure, pedagogical design and the incorporation of concepts related to sustainability learning approaches to improve the results of vocational education.
Background During COVID, many Physical Educational (PE) programmes were put on hold. However, to allow students to graduate, and to keep them fit and healthy, home-based exercise (HBE) programmes were needed. Objectives This study measured the effectiveness and feasibility of a 12-week HBE programme delivered via Zoom at an international college in Thailand. The course was held eight times each trimester for nearly two years with up to 25 participants on each course. Methods The study used a one-group pre–post quasi-experimental design. Once a week for nine weeks, participants performed a 45-minute workout of calisthenics and light weights in class, and another 45-minute videoed workout as homework. The volume and intensity of the workouts were progressively increased. There was a pre-test (Week 2) and a post-test (Week 12). The tests consisted of four physical fitness (PF) items: Sit-ups, Push-ups (maximum repetitions in one minute); Squats (maximum repetitions in two minutes); The Plank (number of seconds to exhaustion or a maximum of 120 seconds). The self-reported data [N=841] were analysed via SPSS. Results All four test items showed a 30% or more improvement in performance. The results were very statistically significant ( p < .001). For example, for squats for females [N=464], the pre-test mean was 46.4 ± 14.2 and the post test was 60.9 ± 13.8. Effect sizes were large to very large ( d = 0.59–1.09). Conclusions In this study, HBE was associated with significant improvements in PF. However, causality is limited by the single-group design and self-report measures. Of note, programmes which combine live coaching, motivational mini-lectures, and varied calisthenics may increase adherence and improve PF. Future studies should test which components drive effect.
Introduction Immediate loading of dental implants using a stackable surgical guide represents a meaningful advancement in implant dentistry, as this approach enhances precision while reducing surgical and prosthetic time through the integration of digital planning and three-dimensional printing. Importantly, it supports a more patient-centered pathway by minimizing treatment duration and improving overall comfort and experience. Case report A 57-year-old female patient presented seeking rehabilitation for missing mandibular teeth, with the goal of restoring both function and quality of life. A custom surgical guide was fabricated based on CBCT imaging, facial scanning, and diagnostic cast models. Four implants were placed in the mandible according to the “All-on-Four” Concept. The treatment workflow utilized sequential layers of a stackable surgical guide to accurately guide implant placement, abutment positioning, and immediate prosthesis delivery, ensuring high surgical precision and early functional restoration. After four months, the provisional prosthesis was replaced with a definitive restoration, and the patient was followed for one year, demonstrating stable clinical outcomes. Conclusion Within the limitations of this case, digitally guided implant protocols play a crucial role in enhancing the accuracy and predictability of implant placement, particularly in immediate loading cases. Such approaches not only improve clinical efficiency but also contribute to earlier restoration of oral function, thereby positively impacting patient well-being and daily life. Clinical relevance The use of a stackable surgical guide in conjunction with the “All-on-Four” concept provides additional supporting evidence for a precise, efficient, and patient-centered approach in implant dentistry.
Spinal cord stimulation is an emerging treatment in spinal cord injury and chronic low back pain. This scoping review aimed to identify and consolidate key criteria for rigor, transparency and reproducibility across reporting guidelines for research on spinal cord stimulation, and ensure all relevant criteria are captured, as a first step to identify and evaluate broader strategies for good research practices. Findings were used to to refine mechanisms for rigor, transparency and reproducibility in a causal graph. Four databases were searched from inception to 12 September 2024, and monitored through weekly article alerts up till 29 November 2024. Reviewers independently assessed articles for inclusion if they were (1) standards, guidelines, recommendations, or statements for research on humans, (2) on rigor, transparency and reproducibility, in stimulation or neuromodulation, and (3) written in English. The following data were extracted and synthesized: stimulation type, clinical area, type of responsible practice, and article text on responsible practice. Differences between reviewers were resolved by consensus, and findings used to refine the causal graph. Eleven articles of the following types were included: formal reporting guidelines, standards or checklists (n = 6), general recommendations (n = 4) or systematic review (n = 1). Data were synthesized and used to refine the initial causal graph. The nodes Reporting of experimental conditions , Protocol registration , and Open science practices were unchanged. The node Reporting study design to minimize bias was refined as Reporting study, participant, and investigator characteristics ; the node Reporting stimulation parameters was refined as Reporting stimulation configuration and parameters; and the new node Reporting adverse events was added. The responsible reporting of spinal cord stimulation research should also explicitly include study, participant and investigator characteristics, stimulation configuration and parameters, and adverse events.
Background While the strategic importance of Social Responsibility Accounting (SRA) is well-established for large corporations, its antecedents and firm-level outcomes in the context of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) in emerging economies remain critically under-explored. This study develops and empirically tests an integrated theoretical model examining the key drivers of SRA implementation and its subsequent impact on firm performance and access to finance among SMEs in Vietnam. Methods Employing a sequential exploratory mixed-method design, qualitative interviews with nine experts informed the development of a survey instrument, which was then used to collect quantitative data from 362 SMEs in the Mekong Delta region. The proposed model was analyzed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM). Results: The results confirm that stakeholder pressure, leadership commitment, accounting department competence, and export orientation are significant positive drivers of SRA implementation. In turn, SRA implementation was found to be a strong and significant predictor of both enhanced firm performance and improved access to finance. Conclusions This study provides a comprehensive empirical examination of the SRA ecosystem within SMEs in an emerging market. It offers a nuanced understanding of why SMEs adopt SRA and confirms its strategic role as a mediating mechanism in improving both operational and financial outcomes.
In secondary schools supported by the government in Katerera County, Rubirizi District, Uganda, teacher performance is influenced by leadership dynamics and conflict resolution practices among the head teachers. The study aimed to develop a policy recommendation on head teacher conflict resolution skills related to teacher performance, student outcomes, and school climate; propose policy actions to enhance head teacher conflict resolution across government-aided schools; and analyze document school improvement plans and appraisal records. The policy outcomes and implications of the study include: Teacher performance measures such as quality of lesson delivery, results of assessments on pupils, attendance; Conflict staff, in terms of its frequency and severity; Teacher turnover and absenteeism; Quality of supervision and effectiveness of feedback, Another outcome is in the side of student outcomes like discipline incidents, and progression rates; In addition, the Impacts on stakeholders such as teachers the outcome will impact their morale, workload, and the professional development opportunities that they have. Based on this study, it has been concluded that improving teacher performance at government-aided secondary schools in Katerera County, Rubirizi District calls for more than just the usual instructional reforms; it requires a deliberate focus on building leadership capacity, especially in conflict resolution. Moreover, the evidence shows that the skills of head teachers in resolving conflicts are directly associated with improved teacher motivation, less need for disciplinary actions, better instructional supervision, and a healthier school climate; By incorporating conflict resolution competencies into the national leadership standards of Uganda, these skills will be institutionalized as a fundamental aspect of effective school management. This can further be ensured through structured professional development, peer learning networks, and robust monitoring frameworks to sustain and scale head teachers conflict resolutions practices across districts. Globally, this approach aligns with the Sustainable Development Goal SDG 4 on inclusive and equitable quality education. The study recommends enhancing head teacher conflict resolution as a scalable lever to improve teacher performance, student learning environments, and school governance in government-aided contexts.
Molluscum contagiosum and human papillomavirus (HPV) are very common cutaneous infections with worldwide distribution, yet treatment options remain limited. Traditional therapies are invasive and have a high rate of recurrence, and newer topical agents available are costly. Here I discuss evidence supporting the hypothesis that the aluminum-based salts, utilized in the antiperspirant industry since the early 1900s, could have a therapeutic effect on skin lesions due to molluscum contagiosum, HPV and possibly other viruses. Clinical trials in this area are needed.
Syntenin-1 is the Syndecan-binding protein 1 and a PDZ domain–containing adaptor protein that regulates diverse cellular processes through its interactions with transmembrane receptors, cytoskeletal components, and signaling molecules. Here we have characterized twelve Syntenin-1 commercial antibodies for western blot, immunoprecipitation, and immunofluorescence using a standardized experimental protocol based on comparing read-outs in knockout cell lines and isogenic parental controls. These studies are part of a larger, collaborative initiative seeking to address antibody reproducibility issues by characterizing commercially available antibodies for human proteins and publishing the results openly as a resource for the scientific community. While the use of antibodies and protocols vary between laboratories, we encourage readers to use this report as a guide to select the most appropriate antibodies for their specific needs.
Several satellite services, including the Fixed Satellite Service (FSS), rely on the C-Band (3. 4 – 4. 2 GHz), which provides wide coverage and high availability despite weather effects. As a mid-band spectrum ideal for 5G, its allocation to cellular networks raises interference concerns, potentially disrupting satellite services and causing a significant economic impact. This study presents an empirical, measurement-based 5G propagation assessment and an interference investigation with 5G cellular networks operating below the 6 GHz band in the optimization of exclusion zones for 5G and FSS scenarios, with the aim of fine-tuning the exclusion zone and identifying better coexistence conditions between the two systems. We provide an extensive 5G-cellular downlink analysis that discusses, as part of the coexistence context, the potential for Low-Noise Block (LNB) saturation at the FSS Earth station receiver. Moreover, we deployed a real indoor 5G cellular network for measurement, in which high-gain receiving antennas were positioned at various indoor and outdoor locations to capture the downlink signal radiated by the 5G base-station transmitter within the proposed site. Additionally, a spectrum analyzer was used to examine the power signal received in contrast to the data signal acquired for the proposed projects. Across the indoor measurement points, the received power decreased with distance, reaching approximately −74.02 dBm at 40 m, and no measurable elevation of the FSS signal was observed at the MEASAT earth station located 3 km away. The results of this research indicate that spectrum regulators and other relevant parties will be affected by the potential implementation of 5G cellular networks in C-band operational FSS Earth station receivers. The research additionally proposes and evaluates methods that could facilitate the harmonious coexistence of both systems, like disabling significant emitters or diminishing their transmission capacity.
Background The governance of artificial intelligence within human resource management across the 54 sovereign states of Africa presents distinctive challenges that differ markedly from those observed in Euro-American contexts. African organizations have adopted AI-driven workforce tools at annual growth rates exceeding 25% since 2018; however, governance frameworks remain in their nascent stages and are characterized by fragmentation. Current comparative scholarship has largely overlooked innovative governance developments within the African continent, often positioning Africa as a recipient rather than an active innovator in AI regulation. Methods This study employed a qualitative comparative analysis encompassing eleven focal countries, representing five regional clusters. Data sources included legislative documents, professional standards, civil society instruments, and expert practitioner insights. The analysis focused on five key governance dimensions: legislative architecture, professional standards, digital infrastructure, philosophical traditions, and mechanisms established by civil society. Results Three overarching governance patterns emerged across the continent: (1) the functioning of data protection laws as de facto governance frameworks for AI in human resource management; (2) the significant influence exerted by international development finance institutions on national AI policy formulation; and (3) ongoing tensions between digital transformation aspirations and institutional capacity limitations. Variations across countries were structured along three axes: the specificity of regulations pertaining to AI-driven employment decisions; the integration of African philosophical traditions such as Ubuntu, Harambee, Ma’at, and Teranga; and the degree of regional economic community harmonisation initiatives. Based on these insights, the African AI HRM Governance Typology classified countries into four ideal types: Conclusions Achieving effective AI HRM governance across Africa necessitates tailored harmonisation strategies that respect the varying levels of governance maturity. Critical actions include the development of an African Union Model Law on AI in Employment, the establishment of minimum standards within the framework of the African Continental Free Trade Area, and the promotion of regional economic community governance coalitions. Future research should focus on empirically assessing governance effectiveness, exploring employer practices across the continent, and analysing the impact of trade liberalisation on regulatory convergence.
Background Narrative CVs (NCVs) are increasingly being adopted as part of responsible research assessment initiatives that seek to recognize diverse scholarly contributions beyond traditional quantitative metrics. As funding agencies, institutions, and research organizations implement NCVs, effective training is needed to support both applicants and reviewers. This scoping review aimed to characterize publicly available training and guidance resources for NCVs. Methods We conducted a scoping review following the Arksey and O’Malley framework and reported findings according to the PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Searches of MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, ERIC, Web of Science, preprint servers, and extensive grey literature were conducted from 2010 to October 2025. English and French resources providing guidance on writing and/or evaluating NCVs were eligible. Data was extracted in duplicate and summarized using descriptive statistics. Results 65 training resources met the inclusion criteria. Most originated from Canada (38.46%) and the United Kingdom (24.62%) and were produced by universities (43.08%), funders (38.46%), or government organizations (26.15%). Common formats included resource websites (27.69%), webinars (23.08%), and commentary articles (13.85%). Most resources targeted applicants (83.08%), while only 23.08% targeted reviewers. Frequently covered topics were structuring NCV sections, explaining the purpose of NCVs, and presenting non-traditional research contributions. However, reviewer guidance (13.85%) and addressing bias in narrative assessment (15.38%) were infrequently covered. Although most resources were freely accessible (92.31%), only a few had accessibility features (9.24%). Practical tools to support NCV writing and assessment were also inconsistently provided and only 21.54% reported any evaluation of effectiveness. Conclusion Current NCV training resources reflect growing international adoption of responsible research assessment. However, they largely focus on applicants, and gaps remain in reviewer-focused guidance, accessibility, practical tools, and the evaluation of training effectiveness. Developing evidence-informed and rigorously evaluated training resources will support more equitable and effective implementation of narrative CVs.
Abstract* Background Alginate is a widely used irreversible hydrocolloid impression material in dentistry because of its ease of use, affordability, and acceptable clinical performance. Modification of alginate with additives may alter its physical and mechanical properties. This study evaluated the effect of incorporating vanillin at different concentrations into two alginate impression materials, Zelgan and Neocolloid. Methods Vanillin was incorporated into Zelgan and Neocolloid alginate impression materials at concentrations of 0.5% and 1%. The materials were mixed with deionized water using a figure-of-8 motion for 1 minute and moulded in polyvinyl chloride moulds to prepare specimens. Gel strength, permanent deformation, gelation time, flow, and tear strength were evaluated using standardized methods. Data were analyzed using the Shapiro–Wilk test for normality, followed by ANOVA or Kruskal–Wallis tests with appropriate post-hoc analyses. Between-group comparisons were performed using the independent-samples t-test or Mann–Whitney U test. Statistical significance was set at P < 0.05. Results In Zelgan, incorporation of 0.5% vanillin produced no significant changes in permanent deformation (P = 0.78) and tear strength (P = 0.293), while gel strength (P = 0.002), gelation time (P < 0.001), and flow (P < 0.001) decreased significantly. In Neocolloid, 0.5% vanillin showed no significant effect on gel strength (P = 0.439) and permanent deformation (P = 0.792). However, gelation time (P < 0.001) and flow (P < 0.001) decreased significantly, and tear strength increased significantly at 1% vanillin concentration (P < 0.001). Conclusions Vanillin altered the properties of alginate impression materials in a material-dependent manner. Reduced gelation time and flow were observed in both materials, while Neocolloid demonstrated improved tear strength at 1% vanillin. Vanillin may therefore be a useful additive for modifying selected properties of irreversible hydrocolloid impression materials.
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis is a chronic, progressive interstitial lung disease characterised by fibrotic remodelling of the distal alveolar interstitium and irreversible loss of lung function. Rapid decline in forced vital capacity has been significantly associated with rs115982800, a single nucleotide polymorphism in PKN2. Identifying high-quality research antibodies is therefore essential to enable robust investigation of PKN2 biology and its translational potential. Here, we systematically evaluated eleven commercial antibodies for western blot and flow cytometry using a standardised knockout-validation approach in human HCT 116 cells, comparing readouts in PKN2 knockout lines with isogenic parental controls. These experiments are part of a broader collaborative initiative addressing antibody reproducibility by characterising commercial antibodies for human proteins and making the results openly available. While antibody performance and protocol conditions may vary between laboratories, this study provides a resource to guide selection of the most suitable reagents for investigations of PKN2 in health and disease.
Background Narrative CVs (NCVs) are increasingly being adopted as part of responsible research assessment initiatives that seek to recognize diverse scholarly contributions beyond traditional quantitative metrics. As funding agencies, institutions, and research organizations implement NCVs, effective training is needed to support both applicants and reviewers. This scoping review aimed to characterize publicly available training and guidance resources for NCVs. Methods We conducted a scoping review following the Arksey and O’Malley framework and reported findings according to the PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Searches of MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, ERIC, Web of Science, preprint servers, and extensive grey literature were conducted from 2010 to October 2025. English and French resources providing guidance on writing and/or evaluating NCVs were eligible. Data was extracted in duplicate and summarized using descriptive statistics. Results 65 training resources met the inclusion criteria. Most originated from Canada (38.46%) and the United Kingdom (24.62%) and were produced by universities (43.08%), funders (38.46%), or government organizations (26.15%). Common formats included resource websites (27.69%), webinars (23.08%), and commentary articles (13.85%). Most resources targeted applicants (83.08%), while only 23.08% targeted reviewers. Frequently covered topics were structuring NCV sections, explaining the purpose of NCVs, and presenting non-traditional research contributions. However, reviewer guidance (13.85%) and addressing bias in narrative assessment (15.38%) were infrequently covered. Although most resources were freely accessible (92.31%), only a few had accessibility features (9.24%). Practical tools to support NCV writing and assessment were also inconsistently provided and only 21.54% reported any evaluation of effectiveness. Conclusion Current NCV training resources reflect growing international adoption of responsible research assessment. However, they largely focus on applicants, and gaps remain in reviewer-focused guidance, accessibility, practical tools, and the evaluation of training effectiveness. Developing evidence-informed and rigorously evaluated training resources will support more equitable and effective implementation of narrative CVs.
