bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
VEXAS, Chediak–Higashi syndrome and Danon disease: myeloid cell endo-lysosomal pathway dysfunction as a common denominator?
Authors: Savy Coline , Bourgoin Maxence , Cluzeau Thomas , Jacquel Arnaud , Robert Guillaume , Auberger Patrick
Published: January 2025

Vacuolization of hematopoietic precursors cells is a common future of several otherwise non-related clinical settings such as VEXAS, Chediak–Higashi syndrome and Danon disease. Although these disorders have a priori nothing to do with one other from a clinical point of view, all share abnormal vacuolization in different cell types including cells of the erythroid/myeloid lineage that is likely the consequence of moderate to drastic dysfunctions in the ubiquitin proteasome system and/or the endo-lysosomal pathway. Indeed, the genes affected in these three diseases UBA1, LYST or LAMP2 are known to be direct or indirect regulators of lysosome trafficking and function and/or of different modes of autophagy. Furthermore, all three genes are highly expressed in the more mature myeloid cells pointing out their likely important function in these cells. LAMP2 deficiency for instance is known to be associated with alterations of lysosome architecture and function. It is thus well established that different cell types from Danon disease patients that harbor invalidating mutations in LAMP2 exhibit giant lysosomes containing undigested materials characteristic of defects in the fusion of lysosomes with autophagosomes, a feature also found in VEXAS and CHS. Other similarities regarding these three diseases include granulocyte and monocyte dysfunctions and a recurrent inflammatory climate. In the present review we discuss the possibility that some common clinical manifestations of these diseases, notably the hematopoietic ones are consecutive to a dysfunction of the endo-lysosomal pathway in myeloid/erythroid progenitors and in mature myeloid cells including neutrophiles, monocytes and macrophages. Finally, we propose reacidification as a way of reinducing lysosome functionalities and autophagy as a potential approach for a better management of these diseases.
Early effects of LT3 + LT4 combination therapy on quality of life in hypothyroid patients: a randomized, double-blind, parallel-group comparison trial
Authors: Hajtalebi Fatemeh , Alaei-Shahmiri Fariba , Golgiri Fatemeh , Shahini Najmeh , Akbari Hamideh , Assadian Kasra , Mosalamiaghili Seyedarad
Published: January 2025

Background

This study aimed to evaluate the impact of combined levothyroxine (LT4) and triiodothyronine (LT3) therapy on quality of life in patients with primary hypothyroidism.

Methods

In a randomized, double-blind, parallel-group trial, 151 Iranian patients diagnosed with primary hypothyroidism between 2020 and 2021 were enrolled. One group received LT4 alone (n = 80), while the other received LT4 and LT3 (n = 71) for a minimum of six months. The primary outcome was quality of life assessed using the SF-36V1 questionnaire, and the secondary endpoints included clinical and laboratory measurements.

Results

In the LT4 + LT3 group, a significant reduction in TSH levels (p < 0.05) was observed compared to baseline. While no significant differences emerged between the groups in terms of blood pressure, lipid profiles (except for low-density lipoprotein cholesterol), or body weight, there were notable improvements in physical functioning and bodily pain in the LT4 + LT3 group compared to the LT4 + placebo group. Compared with baseline, combination therapy significantly increased the physical component summary score after six months, but the difference was not significant.

Conclusion

Combination therapy may benefit patients with primary hypothyroidism, particularly those experiencing body pain or physical function issues. However, the overall impact on quality of life remains inconclusive, as evidenced by the scores for the mental component. Further research is needed to determine the broader implications of this therapy. This study provides valuable insights into the potential advantages of combining LT4 and LT3 in the management of primary hypothyroidism.

Trial registration

The study was registered with the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT) and assigned the registration number IRCT20200410047012N1 on 2022–08-07.

Trial registration number: IRCT20200410047012N1.

Date of registration: 2020–06-12.
Prolonged screen time is associated with increased severity of tic symptoms in children with tic disorders
Authors: Mohamed Zakaria Ahmed , Dong Hanyu , Xue Yang , Bai Miaoshui , Ouyang Yuling , Jia Feiyong
Published: January 2025

Background

Recent studies have emphasized the association between prolonged screen exposure and neurodevelopmental disorders, though its correlation with tic disorders (TDs) remains ambiguous. We thus conducted this study to investigate the association between screen time (ST) and the severity of tic symptoms in children diagnosed with TDs.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective case-control study with 342 cases of TDs and 270 controls, collecting data from March 2021 to December 2023. The main exposure variable was daily ST for each child, and tic severity, evaluated using the Yale Global Tic Severity Scale (YGTSS), was the outcome variable. Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics, Pearson’s correlation analysis to examine the relationship between screen time and tic severity, and multivariate regression analysis to evaluate the predictive power of screen time for tic symptoms.

Results

Our findings revealed that children with TDs had significantly longer ST compared to the control group, averaging 116.06 ± 147.9 min/day versus 43.23 ± 37.5 min/day, p < 0.001. We also noted a positive correlation between ST and TDs( r = 0.461, p < 0.01). Daily ST was a significant predictor of overall YGTSS scores (t = 9.58, p < 0.001), suggesting that increased ST is associated with heightened tic symptoms. However, age of first exposure to screens was not significantly correlated with tic severity (p > 0.05). Though we observed a negative correlation between ST and vitamin D levels, the results were not statistically significant (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

Children with TDs had longer ST compared to their control’s counterparts, and prolonged ST was significantly associated with heightened tic severity, which highlights the critical need for careful monitoring and regulation of screen time in children with TDs.
No easy way out: towards a framework concept of long-term governance
Authors: Scheer Dirk , Venghaus Sandra , Sardo Stefania , Stark Sascha , Kuppler Sophie , Schmidt Michael W. , Hoyer-Klick Carsten
Published: January 2025

Background

Problems such as climate change, environmental pollution, nuclear disposal and unsustainable production and consumption share a common feature: they pose long-term challenges because of their complex nature, potentially severe consequences, and the demanding problem-solving paths. These challenges may have long-lasting impacts on both present and future generations and, therefore, require to be addressed through a long-term governance perspective, i.e., coherent and consistent policy-making across sectors, institutions, and temporal scales. Dealing with these challenges is a core task of policy-making in modern societies, which requires problem-solving skills and capabilities. In this context, we identify long-term governance traces in the literature, illustrate the case of energy transition towards renewable energy systems as a long-term governance case, and elaborate on the scope and definition of long-term governance and its research.

Main text

We elaborate an analytical framework for long-term governance (LTG), based on five building blocks: the ‘environment’, which details the policy-making arena; the ‘policy issues’, which elaborates on the problems to be dealt with by LTG; the ‘key challenges and driving force’, revealing LTG mechanisms; the ‘key strategies’, in which promising approaches for LTG are identified; and the ‘policy cycle’, where governance impacts on different policy phases are discussed. In essence, we understand long-term governance at its core as a reflexive policy-making process to address significant enduring and persistent problems within a strategy-based decision-making arena to best prepare for, navigate through, and experiment with a changing environment.

Conclusions

The framework does not describe specific processes or individual cases in detail. Instead, it should be understood as an illustration of long-term governance characteristics at a more general level. Such a framework may help to structure the field of long-term policy-making, guide future research on conceptual, comparative, and empirical in-depth studies, and may provide orientation and action knowledge for making our governance system sustainable. Stimulating and broadening research on long-term issues seems indispensable, given the existence of several ‘grand challenges’ that require successful long-term governance.
Research motivation as a mediating variable between system intelligence, academic grit, and academic achievement among postgraduate students, faculty of education, Zagazig University
Authors: Hamdy Helal Marwa , Abohashem Hassan ElSayed
Published: January 2025

Background

Recent years have witnessed a revolutionary transformation in information technology, characterized by the proliferation of electronic information platforms, with the Egyptian Knowledge Bank being a notable example. Understanding how to effectively navigate these complex systems requires investigation into key factors, particularly system intelligence.

Objectives

This study aimed to examine the mediating role of research motivation in the relationship between system intelligence, Academic Grit, and Academic Achievement.

Method

Using a correlational design, the study surveyed 600 post-graduate students aged 25–55 years (M = 33.22, SD = 8.09) through online snowball sampling. Data were collected using the Research Motivation Scale, System Intelligence Scale, Academic Grit Scale, and Grade Point Average (GPA). Statistical analyses were conducted using IBM Amos, Spss 23.

Results

Path analysis revealed that system intelligence had an indirect effect on Academic Grit through research motivation. Additionally, direct effects were observed from system intelligence to research motivation, system intelligence to Academic Grit, and Academic Grit to Academic Achievement.

Conclusions

This study highlights research motivation as a crucial mediator in the relationship between system intelligence, academic grit, and academic achievement. The findings suggest potential interventions to enhance academic achievement by fostering system intelligence and academic grit through the development of research motivation.
Noninvasive in vivo imaging of macrophages: understanding tumor microenvironments and delivery of therapeutics
Authors: Gangadaran Prakash , Onkar Akanksha , Rajendran Ramya Lakshmi , Goenka Anshika , Oh Ji Min , Khan Fatima , Nagarajan ArulJothi Kandasamy , Muthu Sathish , Krishnan Anand , Hong Chae Moon , Ahn Byeong-Cheol
Published: January 2025

Macrophages are pivotal in the body’s defense and response to inflammation. They are present in significant numbers and are widely implicated in various diseases, including cancer. While molecular and histological techniques have advanced our understanding of macrophage biology, their precise function within the cancerous microenvironments remains underexplored. Enhancing our knowledge of macrophages and the dynamics of their extracellular vesicles (EVs) in cancer development can potentially improve therapeutic management. Notably, macrophages have also been harnessed to deliver drugs. Noninvasive in vivo molecular imaging of macrophages is crucial for investigating intricate cellular processes, comprehending the underlying mechanisms of diseases, tracking cells and EVs’ migration, and devising macrophage-dependent drug-delivery systems in living organisms. Thus, in vivo imaging of macrophages has become an indispensable tool in biomedical research. The integration of multimodal imaging approaches and the continued development of novel contrast agents hold promise for overcoming current limitations and expanding the applications of macrophage imaging. This study comprehensively reviews several methods for labeling macrophages and various imaging modalities, assessing the merits and drawbacks of each approach. The review concludes by offering insights into the applicability of molecular imaging techniques for real time monitoring of macrophages in preclinical and clinical scenarios.
Assessing water status in rice plants in water-deficient environments using thermal imaging
Authors: Yang Chin-Ying , Zhang Yan-Ci , Hou Ya-Ling
Published: January 2025

Background

Rice is a staple food for the global population. However, extreme weather events threaten the stability of the water supply for agriculture, posing a critical challenge to the stability of the food supply. The use of technology to assess the water status of rice plants enables the precise management of agricultural water resources.

Results

The results of this study reveal that rice-producing regions with more severe drought have higher ion leakage rates, lower Soil Plant Analysis Development (SPAD) meter values, and reduced total chlorophyll content in plants. Although no significant differences were observed in red-green-blue (RGB) images, physiological parameters and canopy temperature differed significantly from conventional farming when infrared thermography was used to capture rice plants in the early stages of drought. The Crop Water Stress Index (CWSI), calculated from canopy temperature and atmospheric temperature, indicated a high correlation between access to water for rice plants and their physiological parameters. Regression analysis using CWSI and plant water status yielded a corrected coefficient of determination of 0.86.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrate that infrared thermography can effectively detect early signs of water stress in rice, aiding farmers in irrigation planning and enabling precise management and optimal utilization of water resources.
Count-rate management in 131I SPECT/CT calibration
Authors: Svärd Staffan Jacobsson , Hindorf Cecilia , Nilsson Joachim N.
Published: January 2025

Background

System calibration is essential for accurate SPECT/CT dosimetry. However, count losses due to dead time and pulse pileup may cause calibration errors, in particular for 131I, where high count rates may be encountered. Calibration at low count rates should also be avoided to minimise detrimental effects from e.g. background counts and statistical fluctuations. This paper aims to present experimental data illustrating count-rate dependencies and to propose practical routines to mitigate errors in the 131I calibration procedure without needing advanced analysis tools.

Results

The sensitivities of two General Electric (GE) Discovery 670 Pro systems were assessed using two Jaszczak phantom geometries. SPECT/CT data were collected over two months, starting with an initial 131I content of > 2 GBq, decaying to approximately 20 MBq. This allowed for a detailed analysis of count losses due to dead time and pulse pileup. From the sensitivity analysis, it was shown that robust calibration was obtained for 131I phantom activities ranging between 250 and 1500 MBq.

Conclusions

The results show that adequate corrections for dead-time and pulse-pileup counting losses are essential for accurate calibration. It is argued that loss corrections should be based on total spectrum count rates in projections and not only on the 364.5 keV energy window data. The measurement campaigns presented in this paper, using basic tools and equipment, may serve as a model for establishing routines for count-loss corrections as well as for system calibration and regular control of system sensitivity. The data suggest that analysis of source and count concentration in a homogeneous Jaszczak phantom offers robust calibration, whereas analysis of source strength and counts in a delineated phantom insert offers a practical and robust method for regular quality control.
Carbon monoxide-oxidising Pseudomonadota on volcanic deposits
Authors: Dawson Robin A. , Fantom Nicola , Martin-Pozas Tamara , Aguila Patricia , King Gary M. , Hernández Marcela
Published: January 2025

Carbon monoxide (CO) oxidising microorganisms are present in volcanic deposits throughout succession, with levels of vegetation and soil influencing the communities present. Carboxydovores are a subset of CO oxidisers that use CO as an energy source, which raises questions about the physiological and metabolic features that make them more competitive in harsh volcanic ecosystems. To address these questions, samples were taken from volcanic strata formed by eruptions from Calbuco Volcano (Chile) in 2015 (tephra) and 1917 (soil). Two carboxydovore members of the Burkholderiaceae family were isolated for further study to elucidate the benefits of carboxydovory for the survival of these strains in extreme volcanic ecosystems. The isolates were identified as Paraburkholderia terrae COX (isolated from the 2015 tephra) and Cupriavidus str. CV2 (isolated from the 1917 soil). 16S rRNA gene sequencing showed that within the family Burkholderiacea, the genus Paraburkholderia dominated the 2015 volcanic deposit with an average relative abundance of 73.81%, whereas in the 1917 volcanic deposit, Cupriavidus accounted for 33.64% (average relative abundance). Both strains oxidise CO across a broad range of concentrations (< 100 ppmv – 10,000 ppmv), and genome sequence analysis revealed a candidate form-I carbon monoxide dehydrogenase (CODH), which is likely to catalyse this process. Each strain oxidised CO specifically at stationary phase but the conditions for induction of CODH expression were distinct. Cupriavidus strain CV2 expressed CODH only when CO was added to cultures (100 ppm), while Pb. terrae COX expressed CODH regardless of supplementary CO addition. Based on comparative metabolic and phylogenetic analyses, Cupriavidus strain CV2 is proposed as a novel species within the genus Cupriavidus with the name Cupriavidus ulmosensis sp. nov. for the type strain CV2T (= NCIMB 15506 T, = CECT 30956 T). This study provides valuable insights into the physiology and metabolism of carboxydovores which colonise volcanic ecosystems.
An association study of polymorphisms in the P2RX7 gene in an Iranian population with the risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Noori Homa , Rajabian Majid , Majidpour Mahdi , Sabeti Akbar-Abad Mahboobeh , Saravani Ramin
Published: January 2025

Objective

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) showed a broad etiology that both environmental and genetic factors play a role in its predisposition. Purinergic receptors have been hypothesized to be included in the pathogenicity of T2DM. The current study evaluated the association of two variants through the purinergic receptor P2X7 (P2RX7) gene with the incidence of T2DM in the population of Iran.

Materials and methods

We study includes 600 subjects as case and healthy groups clinically diagnosed with T2DM by clinicians referred to the diabetic clinic of Bu-Ali Hospital, Zahedan. DNA extraction followed by tetra amplification refractory mutation system polymerase chain reaction (Tetra ARMS-PCR) as a genotyping method.

Results

Regarding rs1718119, the codominant heterozygous (TC vs. TT), Dominant (TC + CC vs. TT), Over dominant (TC vs. TT + CC) and Allelic (C vs. T) inheritance models increased T2DM risk by 2.81, 2.94, 1.62, and 2.20 folds, respectively. Similarly, in the variant rs17525809 in the same models, the analysis showed that increased T2DM risk by 3.31, 2.56, 3.25, and 2.02 folds, respectively. Based on haplotype analysis, Crs1718119Crs17525809, Crs1718119Trs17525809 and Trs1718119Crs17525809 haplotypes significantly enhance T2DM risk by 3.97, 1.36 and 1.82 folds, respectively. Furthermore, the interaction analysis indicated that TCrs1718119/TCrs17525809, TCrs1718119/TTrs17525809 and TTrs1718119/TCrs17525809 genotype combinations strongly correlated with high T2DM risks by 7.80, 1.75 and 2.92 folds, respectively.

Conclusions

Our findings showed that both rs1718119T > C and rs17525809T > C increased the risk of T2DM in the Iranian population.

Graphical abstract
Characterization of two neutralizing monoclonal antibodies with conformational epitopes against porcine deltacoronavirus
Authors: Lu Wan , Cao Hongtao , Yang Yongle , Sun Yangyang , Yang Dong , Gerber Priscilla F. , Li Xiangdong , Huang Yaowei , Wang Bin
Published: January 2025

Porcine deltacoronavirus (PDCoV) is a globally distributed swine enteropathogenic virus that emerged in the last decade. A recent report of PDCoV infection in Haitian children also highlights potential public health implications. In this study, two monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), 1C2 and 5H5, were generated and showed high specificity for the PDCoV S protein. Both mAbs displayed high-titer neutralizing capabilities, suggesting their potential for passive immunotherapy. Epitope mapping revealed that the mAbs likely recognized conformational epitopes in the S1 subunit domains A and B of the native S protein, thereby blocking the interaction between the S1 receptor-binding domain and the cellular receptor, which could inhibit viral entry into host cells. This study offers new biological tools for PDCoV detection and lays the groundwork for the future development of porcine-specific antibodies for the prevention and treatment of PDCoV in piglets.
Quality of life of hemodialyzed patients with the consideration of the type of vascular access
Authors: Michalik Anna , Maciejczyk Natalia , Skoczylas Kornelia
Published: January 2025

Introduction: Kidney disease is a major challenge for modern medicine, despite advances in its diagnosis and therapy. Hemodialysis, as one of the key renal replacement therapies, sustains patients' vital functions, but is associated with significant challenges in terms of the quality of life.
Aim: To assess the quality of life of patients undergoing hemodialysis with consideration of the type of vascular access.
Material and method: The study was conducted from November 2023 to March 2024 among patients of dialysis stations in the district of Jastrzębie, diversified in terms of age, place of residence, education, and marital status. The study used a diagnostic survey method with a self-constructed questionnaire and a KDQOL-SFTM tool.
Results and conclusions: Patients with a fistula tend to have a higher quality of life, better physical and social functioning, and better overall health than patients using a vascular catheter. Gender and place of residence have no significant effect on the quality of life of hemodialyzed patients, regardless of the type of vascular access. Patients under 60 years of age show better physical health than older patients. Secondary and higher education correlates with higher quality of life in terms of symptoms. Marital status has a significant impact on physical health. Shorter duration of dialysis treatment is associated with better quality of life in terms of symptoms, disease quality of life and mental health. The absence of dialysis complications correlates with higher quality of life in terms of symptoms, quality of life in disease and physical health. The results of the study highlight the importance of the type of vascular access and socio-demographic factors in assessing the quality of life of hemodialyzed patients.
Dynamic Assessment as an Approach to French Pronunciation Instruction
Authors:   , Center Sarah M
Published: January 2025

This thesis is focused on dynamic assessment (DA), an instructional approach based on Vygotskian sociocultural theory, applied to French pronunciation instruction, which can be neglected or inconsistent in the foreign language curriculum. DA aims to combine instruction and assessment into a cooperative, mediated approach in which the mediator works with the learner to identify and develop emergent abilities. These emergent abilities can appear in what is often referred to as the zone of proximal development (ZPD), or the difference between what a learner can do independently and what he/she can do with mediation, which in the present study was the difference between what the participant could pronounce correctly with or without mediation. In carrying out an individual DA session with a learner, the author aimed to find suggestions of potential benefits by applying DA to French pronunciation instruction and gain a more detailed understanding of the learner's performance than is generally possible from a traditional assessment, which is totally devoid of mediation for the sake of validity and reliability. The study includes a discussion of some potential benefits and limitations related to the use of DA for teaching French pronunciation to intermediate L2 learners based on what was observed in the DA session, for example suggestions of increased awareness of pronunciation, suggestions of increased independent performance, and suggestions of decreased errors in specific problem areas.
Examining the Links between Attachment Style, Psychopathic Traits, and Sexuality
Authors:   , Bubeleva Katherine
Published: January 2025

Previous literature has identified links between psychopathic trait severity and disturbed styles of attachment on sexual outcomes in adulthood. However, few studies have investigated these domains within one design. Therefore, it is unclear how they may influence each other, given that an association between attachment styles and psychopathic traits has also been previously documented. This study sought to explore the possible role of psychopathic traits upon the association between attachment and sexual outcomes. Participants were sampled from an undergraduate student population at a large university. Data were analyzed using correlational and hierarchical regression analyses, as well as two exploratory path models. Analyses suggested that aspects of attachment and psychopathic trait severity were significantly associated with each other and differentially predicted certain sexual outcomes. Furthermore, results indicated that the effects of attachment avoidance on sexual outcomes were mediated by Factor 1 traits of psychopathy, while the effects of attachment anxiety were mediated by Factor 2 traits. Additionally, it was found that attachment style was linked with contempt, and this was further linked to disturbances in sexual outcomes, which is a novel finding. Implications of the findings, limitations, and future directions are discussed.
An Instrumental Song without Words about Hope: A Melodic Motivic Analysis of the Third Violin Sonata by Charles Ives (1874–1954)
Authors:   , Kim GaLeoung
Published: January 2025

The American composer Charles Ives is well known for musical quotation/borrowing: composing music with or from pre-existing musical sources, such as folk tunes, hymns, chants, or other composers' works. His Third Violin Sonata is one of few works that used his unique technique of cumulative setting with only hymn tunes. For analysis of his instrumental music, the text of the hymn tunes is generally disregarded, as the compositions are for instruments. Ives' Third Violin Sonata is challenging to understand in comparison with other violin sonatas, because it lacks information such as titles and subtitles. Even though Ives never mentioned the piece's meanings or extramusical meanings, almost all the elements of the piece indicate hope as a common theme. This dissertation examines which hymn tunes were quoted in the piece, gives the meanings of the hymn tunes, and discusses how Ives uses these tunes as themes with textual meanings. The study includes a brief life of Ives and his historical circumstances and presents a brief musical analysis. The research should give a better understanding of the piece to performers and others curious about it.
Use of a Virtual Reality Gaming System to Improve Balance in Individuals with Chronic Brain Injury
Authors:   , Cruz Selena R
Published: January 2025

Wii Fit U games utilize a Wii Balance Board™ (WBB) in a manner that can provide precise feedback contingencies similarly to some forms of balance rehabilitation, thereby potentially increasing the dose of quality therapy with or without the presence of a therapist during post-brain injury rehabilitation. Additionally, an engaging video-game could improve treatment adherence, a critical aspect of making positive functional gains, by potentially increasing the rate and quality of reinforcement embedded in therapy. The present study had three aims: (1) develop a rigorous behavioral therapy for improving balance in individuals living with chronic brain injury using a Wii Fit U game and the WBB; (2) evaluate the program's effects on balance measures using a within-subject experimental design; and (3) assess social validity of behavioral gains by evaluating the program's effects on participant's "subjective balance confidence" (i.e., their Activities-Specific Balance Confidence (ABC) scores). A reversal design is proposed for use with primary study participants, wherein the experimental gameplay condition and no intervention condition are alternated for 6 to 10 weeks. A similar design was used in a truncated fashion with pilot participants, and a multiple baseline design was used with follow-up pilot participants. It was expected that participants would exhibit greater performance in the game as well as better balance score improvement when the Wii Fit U game was administered at a high therapeutic dose, and that increased ABC scores would correlate with directly measured balance scores.
Investigation of Room Temperature Soft Ferromagnetism in Indium Phosphide Substrate Synthesized via Low Energy Nickel Ion Implantation
Authors:   , Jones Daniel C.
Published: January 2025

In this work, we have utilized an ion beam process known as gettering to migrate implanted Ni ions much deeper into the bulk substrate than their initial projected end of the range. The projected mean depth is known as Rp. The gettering effect is the most crucial part of the fabrication and we have found that for an H fluence of 3x 1016 cm-2 there is a threshold fluence of approximately 7.5 x 1015 cm-2 that cannot be surpassed if the gettering process is to be completed along with the substrate recovered to the high crystalline quality. This hard threshold is due to the gettering process relaxation induced mechanism that is responsible for migrating the Ni to the Rp/2 location while the H is vacating during the thermal annealing process. If the total number of vacancies produced by the H dissociation is not substantially larger than the total number of implanted Ni atoms the Ni will migrate to the Rp location of the Ni implantation at the amorphous and crystalline interface and toward the surface. When the gettering condition is not met the resulting magnetic responses vary from an exceptionally weak ferromagnetic response to not exhibiting a magnetic response. Additionally, conducting the ion implantation at an elevated substrate temperature does not increase the threshold Ni fluence above our established limit. During the elevated substrate temperature implantation, the hydrogen ions diffuse out to the surface resulting in less migration of the Ni to the initial Rp location within the Ni implantation region. The elevated temperature implantation condition appears to not create a sharp amorphous crystalline interface at the end of the range for the Ni implantation.
Early Intervention Referral and Service Frequency for Children with Visual Impairments: Experiences from the Field
Authors:   , Bishop Audra Lea
Published: January 2025

The purpose of this study was to examine differences in early intervention (EI) referral and service frequency for children with blindness or visual impairment (BVI) and gather information about the practices and experiences of vision professionals across the United States. The study focused on obtaining data from certified teachers of students with visual impairment (CTVI) and certified orientation and mobility specialists (COMS) in the United States. Information collected included descriptive statistics and professional information about EI for children with BVI, and information about the referral process and service frequency for children with BVI during EI. Thirty-three states were represented in the collected data. Of these states, 26 had responses from four or more professionals, the criteria for inclusion in the analyses. Participants provided information based on a researcher-developed survey requesting information related to the procedures used to provide EI services for children with BVI. Questions were adapted from established instruments where possible. Across states, there were some statistically significant differences in CTVIs and COMS reports of procedures regarding the role of professional collaboration, parent/caregiver participation in IFSP meetings, strengths/resources utilized by vision professionals, and challenges parents/families encountered when accessing EI services for their child with BVI. No statistically significant differences were identified across states for type of referral method, most commonly initiated by health care professionals, or method by which service frequency was determined. Results will be used to inform future research to further examine EI for children with BVI in the United States.
The Abraham Solvation Model Used for Prediction of Solvent-Solute Interactions and New Methods for Updating Parameters
Authors:   , Churchill Brittani N.
Published: January 2025

The Abraham solvation model (ABSM) is an experimentally derived predictive model used to help predict various solute properties. This work covers various uses for the ABSM including predicting molar enthalpies of vaporization, predicting solvent coefficients for two new solvents (2,2,5,5-tetramethyloxolane and diethyl carbonate), predicting values for multiple new ionic liquids (ILs). This work also introduces a novel method for updating IL ABSM parameters by updating cation- and anion-specific values using linear algebra and binary matrices.
Seeking Method in the Madness: Demystifying Students' Multimodal Digital Composing Processes
Authors:   , Stamm Brett M.
Published: January 2025

The study of writing has moved through process and product movements. The rapid introduction of technology into classroom spaces has provided new platforms and opportunities for students to integrate multiple modes of communication into a single act of composing. While there is an acknowledgment that digital multimodal composition is a highly complex act and set of processes, much of the literature and investigation into this digital turn in composing has largely been product focused versus process focused. This exploratory qualitative case study examined how students compose using digital tools and were driven by questions about what activities in which they engage and what patterns exist in how those activities come together. Using a combination of data sources including screen capture video, think-aloud protocols, and retrospective surveys, eleven process activity categories emerged from analysis including selection, text entry, manipulation, referencing, environment setting, review, contemplation, waiting, breaks, transition, and completion. Process activity categories then informed the inductive determination of four tendencies that impact how process activity comes together during participant acts of composing. Participants displayed as one-dimensional, irresolute, flexible, and perfectionist. Broad patterns related to process activity progression and traditional concepts of print were present in participant composing activity. Viewed together, vague complexities noted in literature are explicitly illustrated and elaborated and an argument for digital multimodal composing as a design process is made. Recommendations for practitioners and researchers are shared.
Computational Studies of the Photophysical, Structural, and Catalytic Properties of Complex Chemical Systems
Authors:   , Melancon Kortney
Published: January 2025

Computational chemistry employs mathematical algorithms, statistics, and large databases to integrate chemical theory with experimental observations. Computational modeling allows us to make predictions concerning molecular properties and reactivity that ultimately lead to accurate assessment of the most important fundamental properties of chemical systems. Advances in theoretical techniques and computer power have dramatically increased the usefulness and importance of computational chemistry as a complement to experimental studies. This is especially relevant to catalytic reactions of industrial importance as well as the analysis of structural properties and the resulting spectroscopic phenomena in what are often otherwise counterintuitive models. This dissertation is a representation of the research I performed during my years as a graduate student in the Chemistry Department at the University of North Texas. My research has examined novel carbenes as efficient organocatalysts, structure-based design and optimization of small molecule drugs, and surveying methods to accurately describe structure and bonding and catalytic abilities of inorganic and organometallic systems. The works presented herein have been published or are awaiting submission to peer-reviewed scientific journals. A variety of computational techniques were employed in studying metal-mediated catalysis and organocatalysis as well as the structural and photophysical properties of systems containing closed-shell transition metal ions.
Effects of Surface Texture and Porosity on the Corrosion Behavior and Biocompatibility of Pure Zinc Biomaterials for Orthopedic Applications
Authors:   , Cockerill Irsalan
Published: January 2025

In this dissertation, small and large NaCl particle-derived surfaces (Ra > 40 microns) were generated on 2D Zn materials, and the surfaces were carefully studied concerning topography, corrosion behavior, and bone cell compatibility. Increases in surface roughness accelerated the corrosion rate, and cell viability was maintained. This method was then extended to 3D porous scaffolds prepared by a hybrid AM/casting technique. The scaffolds displayed a near-net shape, an interconnected pore structure, increasing porosity paralleled to an increased corrosion rate, an ability to support cell growth, and powerful antibacterial properties. Lastly, nano/micro (Rz 0.02–1 microns) topographies were generated on 2D Zn materials, and the materials were comprehensively studied with special attention devoted to corrosion behavior, biocompatibility, osteogenic differentiation, immune cell response, hemocompatibility, and antibacterial performance. For the first time, the textured nonhemolytic surfaces on Zn were shown to direct cell fate, and the micro-textures promoted bone cell differentiation and directed immune cells away from an inflammatory phenotype.
Freight Forwarder Satisfaction: A Conceptualization and an Empirical Test of Effect on Airport Customer Loyalty and Competitiveness
Authors:   , Almofeez Sarah Ibraheem
Published: January 2025

In 2018, global gross domestic product (GDP) was US$86.3 trillion, and almost a quarter of that value was due to international trade with a value of US$19.6 trillion. Air cargo accounts for about 35 percent of that trade value (approximately US$6.86 trillion). Moreover, from the perspective of the airport sector, air cargo revenue contributes between 20 to 70 percent of airport revenue. The global airport revenue for freight in 2018 was US$250 billion. Despite the interest and research activities surrounding competition and competitiveness of airports and specifically among airlines and passengers, it appears scholars have overlooked research concerning the competitiveness of airports when it comes to air cargo. This study attempts to fill the gap in the supply chain and logistics literature by putting forward a framework and ultimately operationalizing the framework highlighting the pivotal role of air cargo in the supply chain domain and within the global economy. Specifically, the framework is operationalized within the freight forwarding air cargo supply chain domain – providing insight into this important yet understudied phenomenon. The population of interest is freight forwarders from the Dubai International Airport, United Arab Emirates. The Middle East represents 18 percent of the world's air cargo volume and the region's air cargo volume has been growing three times faster than worldwide air cargo making the Dubai International Airport an appropriate and novel setting for the study. A sample frame obtained from the National Association of Freight and Logistics (NAFL) provided the final sample of 187 respondents. The survey was undertaken during the fourth quarter of 2019. The data are analyzed using structural equation modeling. The dissertation contributes to the supply chain and logistics literature by synthesizing and operationalizing a framework that measures freight forwarder satisfaction specific to air cargo. Relying on Porter's theory of industry structure and competitiveness, the results of this study find that freight forwarder satisfaction is composed of three dimensions: infrastructure, operations, and cost. Additionally, the empirical findings reveal that freight forwarder satisfaction has a significant positive effect on both loyalty and airport competitiveness. As well, loyalty partially mediates the relationship between freight forwarder satisfaction and airport competitiveness.
The Mental Health Screening of Student Athletes by NCAA Athletic Departments
Authors:   , Drew Megan J
Published: January 2025

This study explored NCAA athletic departments' mental health screening practices, including the mental health concerns assessed for by the mental health screening, personnel responsible for administering and reviewing screeners, and resources available for athletes identified as "at risk." Participants were athletic department staff who had knowledge of their school's mental health screening processes. Frequencies and chi-square analyses were used to assess trends across divisional levels (DI vs. DII/DIII). Analyses show that significantly more DI than DII/DDIII institutions have a formal mental health screening program. Institutions' coverage of mental health topics in their screening did not vary significantly by Divisional level, with one exception: a larger percentage of DI institutions assessed whether student athletes had worked with a mental health practitioner than DII/DIII schools. DII/III were significantly more likely to have athletic trainers both administer and review mental health screeners and DI institutions were significantly more likely to have a sport psychologist employed within their athletic department than. DI schools were significantly more likely to have had a student athlete attempt suicide and participate in inpatient treatment than DII/III schools. Implications of the findings, limitations, and future directions are discussed.
Sport Transition and Current Preretirement Planning Practices among NCAA Institutions
Authors:   , Kiefer Heather R.
Published: January 2025

Research has shown that when athletes engage in preretirement planning and address various factors associated with leaving sport (e.g., voluntariness of retirement, shifting identity away from that of an athlete, preretirement planning, personal development, career development, social support), they had significantly better cognitive, emotional, and behavioral adaptation to life after sport. The NCAA is one of the largest sport institutions in the world and they provide limited guidelines to member institutions regarding preparing student-athletes for retirement from sport, and as a result, different schools are developing their own programs. This study explored what NCAA athletic departments do to prepare their student-athletes for their graduation and transition out of sport. Participants were athletic department administrators, and they completed a survey that assessed for current preretirement planning practices and available campus resources for student-athletes who are transitioning out of sport. I used frequencies, t-tests, and chi-square analyses to assess trends across divisional levels (DI vs. DII/DIII). Analyses show that significantly more DI than DII/DDIII institutions have preretirement planning programs. Additionally, there is no significant difference between the topics that are covered across divisional level. The degree to which participants agreed that athletic departments have an ethical/moral responsibility and their perception of who is in charge of planning to prepare athletes varied significantly across divisional level. Implications of the findings, limitations, and future directions are discussed.
A Test of the Female Mimicry Hypothesis in Painted Buntings (Passerina ciris)
Authors:   , Gurley Christine E
Published: January 2025

While female mimicry and lower status signaling hypotheses of delayed plumage maturation have received much discussion in the literature, the experimental tests of these hypotheses have been infrequent. Those experimental tests often use a simulated intruder method with artificial model intruders rather than using live conspecific birds as intruders. Subadult male painted buntings (Passerina ciris) possess delayed plumage maturation where they appear visually identical to adult females during their first potential breeding season, while adult males are strikingly different in plumage coloration. Here I test the behavioral responses in a territorial population of painted buntings that exhibits extreme delayed plumage maturation using a simulated territorial intrusion experiment to measure territorial male behavioral response when presented with live caged intruders of both subadult and adult males. Territorial adult males were significantly more likely to initiate an attack and continue to attack caged adult male intruders than compared to caged subadult male intruders. This result supports both the female mimicry and status signaling hypotheses, and does not support the cryptic hypothesis. Additionally, in anecdotal observations, territorial males occasionally performed mating display behaviors to caged subadult male intruders. These results further suggest that territorial male painted buntings may identify subadult males as potential mates, supporting the female mimicry hypothesis for subadult males in this species. To what degree subadult males may benefit from DPM deserves further study.
Water Shortage in the Himalayas of Himachal Pradesh: Causes, Perceptions, and Impacts
Authors:   , Davis Kayla N
Published: January 2025

Climate change is a growing problem for those living in the Himalayas, threatening water availability and livelihoods. This research seeks to explore the various factors contributing to water shortage and the factors leading to perceptions of water shortage in Himachal Pradesh, India. This thesis explores data collected from 50 interviews conducted in summer 2019 and seeks to understand why participants of these interviews indicated that they do not experience water shortage. The research highlights the importance of further research and needed action in terms of addressing and mitigating the impacts of climate change in the Himalayas of Himachal Pradesh.
Comparison and Application of Verismo Singing Concepts to Trumpet Performance through Aria Transcription and Emulation
Authors:   , Pratt William
Published: January 2025

The link between trumpet playing and emulation of the human voice has been acknowledged by a number of prominent teachers, authors, and composers since the inception of the trumpet as a melodic instrument. This dissertation is a pedagogical guide to lyrical trumpet performance based on the verismo style of singing consistent with the authentic interpretations of operatic soprano arias by Pietro Mascagni, Ruggero Leoncavallo, and Giacomo Puccini. Included are chapters that examine various aspects of the verismo style, as well as comparison and application of late 19th-century voice pedagogy to trumpet practice and performance. This resource examines six recordings of sopranos who created or popularized operatic roles during the verismo period. Included are transcriptions of the six arias for trumpet and piano, with performance notes based on dramatic and textual contexts, as well as interpretive aspects, namely tempo, dynamics, and vibrato.