77710 research outputs found
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Design, Synthesis, and Characterization of HDACi Derivatives with Special Stereochemistry
No full textIn designing new therapeutic candidates, it is crucial to consider stereochemistry, as diastereomers and enantiomers of chiral drugs could present distinct affinities toward various biomolecules including the targeted ones, which, in turn, affects a drug’s bioactivity and pharmacology. Among the many families of anti-cancer drugs, some platinum (Pt) agents have been modified to contain chiral ligands such as trans-1(R),2(R)-diaminocyclohexane (DACH) in oxaliplatin. Chirality of the diamine ligands has sparked unique interest in the biological activity of the Pt complexes. Research has shown the R,R-DACH-Pt isomer have better antitumor activity as compared to its S,S-enantiomer counterpart. To incorporate chirality into our ligand designs, previously synthesized histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACi) were modified to contain S,S-, R,S-, R,R-, or S,R-DACH fragments in the protein surface recognition (cap) domain. The general synthesis scheme of the HDACi derivatives includes a substitution reaction to connect the phenyl group on the cap domain to the linker, an amine-aldehyde condensation and reduction to build the chiral fragments onto the cap, followed by a nucleophilic addition-elimination reaction for the formation of the zinc binding group, and lastly a Boc deprotection to yield the chiral HDACi. Through metalation process, Pt center was installed onto the diaminocyclohexane moiety of the HDACi ligand, resulting in the final HDACi-Pt complex with great stability. The precursors, HDACi ligands, and Pt complexes have been characterized via ESI-LTQ Mass Spectrometry and 600 MHz JEOL nuclear magnetic resonance spectrometry. Addition of the HDACi derivatives on the Pt center, as non-leaving group ligands, could allow two anticancer drugs to reach the cell nucleus at the same time, and potentially alter the reactivity of the bifunctional Pt complexes
Giving Birth Should Never Be a Death Sentence: Chapter 621 and the Path to Maternal Equity
Full text linkSix-Shooter & Sorcery
No full textThis game is a roguelite where skill matters more than luck. Most games like this depend on random upgrades to win, but here you win by learning the combat system. You switch between three elements, fire, water, and lightning, to hit enemy weaknesses. Each enemy is strong against one element and weak against another, like rock-paper-scissors.The fighting is fast but fair. You need to dodge attacks, time your reloads, and quickly switch to the right element. There are no overpowered random items, it\u27s just your skill with these three elements. The levels are different each time, but the core combat stays balanced. This game is for people who are looking for a challenge and who appreciate having their reaction time and on-the-fly thinking tested
Understanding Physical Therapist Student Defined Success: A Qualitative Study
Full text linkPurpose: To (1) investigate student defined success in physical therapist education, and (2) generate key themes from the students’ perspective related to success to enhance physical therapist and health professions education. Method: A qualitative study was conducted through a series of focus groups with 13 first-year and 13 second-year Doctor of Physical Therapy students. Study participants were asked open-ended questions regarding student success and the associated contextual factors. An inductive coding method with thematic analysis utilizing Dedoose software identified major themes. Results: The use of focus groups allowed for in-depth participant discussion, with sample excerpts presented. Data analysis yielded five categories or final codes and three major themes: (1) self-management and growth, (2) performance and learning, and (3) balancing commitments. Discussion: Personal attributes proved to be the main area that students relate to success. Students’ definition of success extended beyond the standard academic performance benchmarks, such as exam scores and licensure pass rates. They were eager to discuss other areas of success such as self-care, balancing commitments and their ability to understand and apply important concepts related to decision making and delivery of care for their future patients. These results have implications for enhancing instructors’ understanding of student defined success with the potential opportunity for educational interventions within physical therapist and other health professional education
Aspiration to Achievement: A Mixed Methods Study of Post-Secondary Access for FirstGeneration College Students
Full text linkThis mixed-methods study examines the effectiveness of Destination Diploma, a community-based post-secondary access program, in supporting the college readiness, enrollment, persistence, and completion of first-generation college students (FGCS). Grounded in Social Capital Theory, the study explores how structured support systems—such as mentorship, academic coaching, and financial aid navigation—enhance educational outcomes for students historically underrepresented in higher education. Quantitative data from 2014 to 2024 was analyzed to assess post-secondary placement and completion rates, while qualitative data from semi-structured interviews with former program participants provided insight into the lived experiences and perceived impact of the program. Findings demonstrate that Destination Diploma plays a critical role in reducing barriers related to college preparedness and social capital, offering a replicable model for institutions and nonprofit organizations seeking to close equity gaps. The results contribute to the broader discourse on educational equity and inform policy and practice aimed at improving post-secondary attainment for first-generation college students
Improve Your Tomorrow Advocates
Full text linkThis project attempts to improve the awareness of our program, Improve Your Tomorrow, to more schools, communities and parents. With Improve Your Tomorrow, we work to enhance the chances of young men of color of getting into college and furthering their education. The program addresses the systemic barriers and opportunity gaps that often limit educational access for underrepresented groups particularly in underserved communities. By promoting IYT’s mission and services more broadly, this project seeks to build stronger partnerships with local schools, engage parents and guardians, and connect with community leaders who can help guide students toward success. Through survey\u27s and school presentations the goal is to ensure that more young men of color are aware of and can benefit from the life-changing opportunities offered by IYT. Ultimately, this effort supports the larger vision of educational equity, college access, and the empowerment of future leaders
Exploring Body Image Perceptions Among Female Athletes
No full textFemale athletes face unique challenges that reveal the need to change how they are represented and portrayed. This study will explore the research question: How does the media, social expectations, and sport specific body ideals negatively affect the body image of female athletes? This study will use Objectification Theory coined by Barbara Fredrickson and Tomi-Ann Roberts which proposes that women are often seen and treated as objects (1997). Research indicates experiences of being objectified lead to body dissatisfaction because there is more attention on their appearance than their performance (Kayoung and Sagas 2014). Additionally, using the Male Gaze Theory posed by Laura Mulvey helps explain the way the media focuses on female athletes appearance over abilities that reinforce social expectations and representation (1975). This research is important because it will examine the body image experiences of female athletes and its impact on mental health, self-esteem, and performance. The discussion also highlights the push back from female athletes against social expectations, unrealistic beauty standards, and objectification that attempt to define them as women first instead of competitors
Respecting Autonomy and Dignity in Adults with Disabilities: A Review of Preference Assessments and Social Validity
No full textBehavior analysts have been discussing ways to ensure that respect for autonomy, dignity, and compassion are present when working with adults with disabilities. A focus on dignity within human and legal rights, specifically for this population, could inform an essential need for understanding the social validity of procedures used by behavior analysts. A foundational part of behavior-analytic practice is identifying preferences of the individuals we serve. A preference assessment is an essential tool used by behavior analysts to predict stimuli that may function as reinforcers. To understand acceptability of these procedures by individuals whose preference is assessed, collecting social validity data of preference assessment procedures can inform practices that respect individuals’ choice and dignity. This study reviews and summarizes the literature on preference assessment and its social validity in adults with disabilities from 2013 to 2023 in the Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis. We reviewed 11 studies, of which only one reported social validity data. We discuss implications and future direction
Identifying A Unified Numbering Scheme Across BCL-BH3 Structures Using the Knob-Socket Model
No full textBH3 mimetics are sought after anti-cancer agents, because they reverse the inhibition of BAX and BAK apoptotic cell effectors and permit cell death of a cancerous cell. BH3 mimetics are designed to bind into the hydrophobic groove of the BCL-2 protein family that regulates apoptosis for healthy cells with pro-apoptotic and anti-apoptotic proteins. In order to identify which residues are responsible for affinity and specificity in the BCL-2 binding groove, a Knob-Socket analysis is utilized to computationally map out the important surfaces defined as 3 residue “sockets” that bind residues defined a a “knob” in the binding groove. From a Knob-Socket mapping of several BH3 ligands bound to various BCL-2 proteins, helices 3, 4, and 5 of BCL-2 are responsible for binding with BH3 ligands. Previous analysis revealed a conserved Gly to Gly packing between the ligand and helix 5 (H5) of BCL-2, but further analysis of this family of interactions reveals an alternate specificity of a conserved Leu-Leu between the ligand and H5. The Leu-Leu interaction between the ligand and H5 is shown to have conserved socket residues of Asn, Trp, Gly, and Arg at the turn of the helix. In relation to the conserved Gly, the Leu residue is set at position -4 with alanine as the other conserved residue at position 0. These findings enhance the understanding of BH3 and similar ligand domains that specifically interact with BCL-2 proteins. By identifying the key residues involved in BH3 binding, more potent BH3 mimetics can be developed as potential agents to induce apoptosis in cancer cells
Understanding The Rise of Domestic Abuse Linked To Homocides
No full textThe goal of this research paper is to raise awareness and bring to light the importance of speaking on Domestic Abuse and its link to homicides. Domestic abuse which is also known as domestic violence is a pattern of behaviors in an intimate relationship that involves one partner trying to have control over the other. Leading to my research question which is; Have the domestic abuse rates increased with its link to homicides? Some of these behaviors may include manipulation, physical harm, and intimidation. These behaviors can be shown through emotional abuse, physical abuse, threats, and financial control. This is an important topic to talk about because many people are affected by it and there needs to be more awareness especially for victims and survivors. Ensuring that relationships are healthy and there are boundaries is crucial because the consequences can be traumatic or even deadly. Domestic abuse rates increased by 8% following the covid 19 pandemic in 2021 in the United States. An unfortunate outcome of domestic abuse is homicide with an estimate of women being more likely to be killed by their significant other than men. By using a mixed methods approach my research will analyze ways to address this issue, the signs, and the role of seeking help in order to understand the increasing rates of domestic abuse including it being linked to homicides