The University of Kansas: Journals@KU
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The C.A.R.E. Model: Dynamical Systems Theory Principles for Reintegrating Individuals Impacted by Incarceration
Full text linkThe process of reintegration into society for individuals impacted by incarceration is intricate and multifaceted. While rehabilitative programs strive to mitigate recidivism through financial and psychological support, many encounter challenges in readjusting to their communities. Acknowledging that these individuals are not isolated but embedded within the broader social frameworks of their families, communities, and the workforce is imperative. Therefore, understanding the psychological determinants influencing justice-involved individuals is pivotal for aligning their conduct with societal norms, as solely attributing their actions to internal factors neglects the array of external environmental influences beyond their control. Given these challenges, we introduce the evidence-based C.A.R.E. model (Collaborate, Amend, Reintegrate, Empower) as a strategic approach. This model, extrapolated from a comprehensive re-evaluation of qualitative research, offers a holistic comprehension of the post-release milieu and advocates for reallocating resources to enhance the interactions between justice-involved individuals and their communities. This manuscript delineates the C.A.R.E. model as a blueprint for reentry programs, underpinned by the tenets of dynamical systems theory, to enrich these interactions
Mushroom Polysaccharides as Natural Modulators of IL-17: Implications for Gut Microbiota, Autoimmune Diseases and Cancer Therapy
Full text linkInterleukin-17 (IL-17, also known as IL-17A) is a member of the pro-inflammatory cytokine family that plays a pivotal role in immune defense, inflammatory responses, and tissue homeostasis. It contributes to host protection, autoimmune diseases, and cancer progression. Recent studies have highlighted the critical role of gut microbiota in immune regulation and tumor progression. Alterations in its composition can disrupt protective mechanisms, increase infection risk, and elevate the likelihood of metabolic and immune-related diseases. Mushroom polysaccharides are biological macromolecules extracted from the fruiting bodies, mycelia, or fermentation broth of mushrooms. These compounds achieve anti-tumor, anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative, and immune-regulatory effects by modulating gut microbiota, increasing short-chain fatty acid production, enhancing intestinal mucosal barrier function, regulating lipid metabolism, and activating specific signaling pathways. Mushroom polysaccharides have been shown to regulate IL-17 both directly through key signaling pathways and indirectly by modulating gut microbiota, thereby influencing immune-related diseases and tumor progression. Therefore, mushroom polysaccharides, acting as natural regulators of IL-17, possess extensive application potentials in cancer therapy and immune disease management
Course Design in Competency-Based Education: An Approach Based on ADDIE
Full text linkCompetency-Based Education (CBE) is transforming current teaching and learning through prioritizing skill mastery over traditional time-based instruction. This shift in teaching and learning attempts to ensure graduates are job-ready and aligned with industry demands. However, many institutions and instructors face challenges in designing effective CBE programs due to a lack of structured instructional design frameworks. This paper proposes the CBE-ADDIE Model, which integrates the well-established ADDIE framework with CBE principles. The newly developed model provides a more robust and systematic approach for competency mapping, assessment design, content development, implementation, and continuous evaluation. By adopting this model, instructional designers and educators can create high-quality, scalable, and industry-aligned CBE programs that enhance learner success and workforce readiness
Distribution and ecology of the Cedar Keys Mole Skink (Plestiodon egregius insularis)
Full text linkWe conducted surveys for the Cedar Keys Mole Skink, Plestiodon egregius insularis (Mount), during 1989‒1999 and 2015‒2024, examined museum vouchers, and compiled personal observations from others to determine the status and distribution of this subspecies, which has the smallest geographic distribution of the five subspecies and is being considered for federal listing. We observed Cedar Keys Mole Skinks on airstrip island, Atsena Otie, Cedar Point, Deer Island, North Key, Scale Key, Seahorse Key, Snake Key, and possibly Dog Island. We have anecdotal reports of Mole Skinks on Way Key, which contains the most potential habitat and is the main island occupied by the city of Cedar Key. We found Mole Skinks along shorelines in tidal wrack and under debris instead of in island interiors, which presumably shelter populations from storm surges that periodically scour beaches of refugia. This subspecies is primarily threatened by habitat loss from rising sea levels and increased storm strength in the future.
Copyright Anxiety and Legal Chill in Higher Education: A Comparison of Canada and the United Kingdom (UK)
Full text linkThis study builds upon and extends previous research into the phenomenon of copyright anxiety, initially measured through the Copyright Anxiety Scale (CAS) developed by Wakaruk et al. (2021). The primary aims are to explore levels of copyright anxiety within the higher education sectors of the UK and Canada, and to examine whether copyright law and the way it is perceived in these sectors inhibits innovative research and teaching practices. Using an adapted version of the copyright anxiety scale survey, we collected responses from over 500 participants in the UK and Canada during the summer of 2023. Additionally, we conducted seven focus groups with 32 individuals to gain deeper insights into the phenomenon and explore potential interventions.
Our findings indicate that those working in higher education are more worried about copyright than those outside the sector. Copyright concerns can cause significant anxiety and emotional labor, which may lead to legal chill that hampers teaching, research, and the provision of library programs and services. For example, academics may use less appropriate materials due to copyright concerns, negatively affecting pedagogical impact. Librarians, often acting as copyright advisors, may experience heightened anxiety, leading them to provide more risk-averse guidance to users and decision-makers. Future publications from this research will further develop a coding frame and explore options for mitigating copyright anxiety and chill in this sector
