Understanding the role of cognitive constructs employed in reading in global math and science achievement.

We utilized PISA-2018 data from 71 countries to investigate the relationship between cognitive constructs employed in reading literacy (locating information, understanding, evaluating and reflecting, single and multiple thinking) and math and science achievement. We found that these cognitive constructs collectively accounted for 56% of the variance in math and 63% in science achievement, even after adjusting for gender, socioeconomic status, and country fixed effects. This means that the majority of cultural differences in math and science achievement (resulting from different education systems) can be explained by cognitive constructs employed in reading.

The association of plasma pancreastatin levels with insulin resistance in patients with gestational diabetes mellitus.

Introduction: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) occurs on the background of increased insulin resistance. We aimed to investigate the levels of plasma pancreastatin (PST) levels and its association with metabolic, demographic, and anthropometric parameters in gestational diabetic and normal glucose-tolerant pregnant women.

Materials And Methods: A total of 165 pregnant women in the 24th-28th week of pregnancy were enrolled in this cross-sectional study.

Preparation and Characterization of Hydrophobin 4-Coated Liposomes for Doxorubicin Delivery to Cancer Cells.

The properties of nanoparticle surfaces are crucial in influencing their interaction with biological environments, as well as their stability, biocompatibility, targeting abilities, and cellular uptake. Hydrophobin 4 (HFB4) is a class II HFB protein produced by filamentous fungi that has a natural ability to self-assemble at hydrophobic-hydrophilic interfaces. The biocompatible, non-toxic, biodegradable, and amphipathic properties of HFB4 render it valuable for improving the solubility and bioavailability of hydrophobic drugs.

The bio-artificial pancreas to treat type 1 diabetes: Perspectives from healthcare professionals in the Netherlands.

Aims: Healthcare professionals are relevant stakeholders because of their gatekeeper role in the clinic. This study aims to explore their perspectives on the potential future clinical implementation of the bio-artificial pancreas (BAP) for people with type 1 diabetes, and suitable target groups.

Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 17 healthcare professionals, including endocrinologists, nurses, and pancreas transplant surgeons.

Comparison of cord blood alarin levels of full-term infants according to birth weight.

Objectives: To compare the cord blood alarin levels of infants in different birth weight groups with those of infants born to mothers diagnosed with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) who were not subgrouped according to birth weight.

Methods: This prospective study was conducted between September 2023 and January 2024. Healthy term babies whose families agreed to participate in the study were divided into four groups according to their birth weight (small for gestational age (SGA), appropriate for gestational age (AGA) and large for gestational age (LGA)) and whether their mothers had GDM.