bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Applying implementation science frameworks to understand why fisherfolk continue or discontinue pre-exposure prophylaxis for HIV prevention in Uganda: a qualitative analysis
Authors: Mwima Simon , Bogart Laura M , Musoke William , Mukama Semei C , Allupo Stella , Kadama Herbert , Naigino Rose , Mukasa Barbara , Wanyenze Rhoda Kitti
Published: January 2025

Introduction

In Uganda, fisherfolk have an HIV prevalence between 15% and 40%, significantly higher than the national average of 5.5%. Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is effective in preventing HIV but faces challenges in uptake and continuation among fisherfolk. This study explores factors influencing PrEP continuation and discontinuation among fisherfolk in Uganda using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR).

Methods

Participants were recruited from two fishing communities near Entebbe, Uganda. One community received enhanced PrEP support (adherence support, educational workshops and check-in calls), while the other received standard healthcare outreach. Forty fisherfolk (20 who continued PrEP and 20 who discontinued PrEP) were interviewed 6 months after initiating PrEP. Data were analysed using directed content analysis, with high inter-rater consistency. Ethical approval and informed consent were obtained.

Results

Findings highlighted several determinants of PrEP continuation and discontinuation across the CFIR domains. Intervention characteristics such as side effects and the pill burden were significant barriers, particularly for women who reported nausea and stomach issues. Individual characteristics revealed that perceived HIV risk influenced PrEP use, with women’s decisions often influenced by their partners' behaviours and mobility. However, insufficient information and education, especially among women, led to misunderstandings and discontinuation. Inner-setting factors like mobility issues and the distance to healthcare clinics posed significant barriers exacerbated by the geographical isolation of fishing communities. In the outer setting, high HIV prevalence motivated PrEP initiation, but stigma, particularly the misconception that PrEP is an antiretroviral drug used by people living with HIV, led to discontinuation.

Conclusion

Fisherfolk in Uganda encounter multiple barriers to PrEP continuation, with women facing more significant challenges. Enhanced support strategies are essential for improving PrEP adherence and informing future HIV prevention interventions in high-risk populations.
Virtual consultation in kidney care: a mixed-methods study on a model for safe and effective integration into routine clinical care
Authors: Courtney Mark , Thompson Stephanie , Klarenbach Scott , Ye Feng , Zaidi Deenaz , Smith Terry J , Bello Aminu K
Published: January 2025

Rationale and Objective

Globally, the COVID-19 pandemic necessitated a rapid introduction of virtual care delivery via telephone or videoconference. The rapid advancements in e-health technology facilitated options for virtual care, including asynchronous data transfer in virtual clinic models and patient-facing smartphone applications for communications and self-care. However, the clinical benefits of virtual consultation have not been consistently demonstrated in all facets of kidney care, and the adoption of this innovation alters workflows and health professionals’ perceptions of care delivery. This study evaluated the integration of virtual outpatient consultation safely and effectively into the kidney care programme in Alberta.

Study design

We leveraged a mixed-methods approach to collate data about clinicians’ experiences and opinions, forming the basis for the qualitative part of the study.

Data extraction

Data were collected through surveys, interviews and focus groups of nephrologists and home dialysis nurses.

Analytical approach

Focus group/interview transcripts for nephrologists and nurses were used to generate initial codebooks, which were iteratively refined throughout the analysis. Codes were categorised and analysed thematically, and data collected from nephrologists and nurses were analysed separately.

Results

The findings demonstrated that clinicians support the use of routine virtual care. Clinicians’ opinions on implementation requirements emphasised logistics for routine virtual care integration, quality of care delivered, impacts on the therapeutic relationship and regulatory policy clarification.

Limitation

The generalisability of the findings is limited in scope, as the study was conducted in a single nephrology programme in Canada, and may not apply to other provinces or settings.

Conclusions

These findings inform recommendations for safe and effective virtual care delivery and can be leveraged to inform virtual care designs in kidney care programmes. Further study is required to clarify the impacts of virtual care on specific population demographics based on geography (rural vs urban) and age (elderly population) in the post-COVID-19 era, and determine how to effectively integrate patient perspectives into this model of care.
Evaluation of the initial rollout of the physical activity referral standards policy in Scotland: a qualitative study
Authors: Hanson Coral L , Mchale Sheona , Neubeck Lis , Dougall Nadine , Kelly Paul
Published: January 2025

Objectives

Physical activity referral schemes (PARS) allow healthcare professionals to refer patients for physical activity support. Evidence of effectiveness is equivocal. Public Health Scotland has developed ‘physical activity referral standards’ that aim to enhance quality, reduce variability in design and delivery and build further evidence of what works. This study evaluated stakeholder perspectives on the initial reach, adoption, implementation and effectiveness of the standards.

Design

A qualitative study using individual, online, semistructured interviews to explore stakeholder awareness and willingness to use the standards. We analysed data using the framework method within the context of the RE-AIM (Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation and Maintenance) framework.

Setting

Data were collected across 28 local authorities in rural and urban areas of Scotland between December 2022 and June 2023.

Participants

73 stakeholders, including scheme managers (n=34), senior managers from provider organisations (n=9), healthcare professionals (n=19) (general practitioners, nurses, occupational therapists and physiotherapists) and policy stakeholders (n=11).

Results

72.6% of stakeholders were aware of the physical activity referral standards, and they were widely welcomed. Healthcare professionals were the least informed. Participants appeared willing to adopt the standards, and stakeholders reported using them to help with service planning, audit delivery processes, identify service gaps, inform monitoring and evaluation plans and understand and communicate the roles and responsibilities of different partners. Barriers to implementation included lack of healthcare professional awareness, funding and workforce capacity. Views about the minimum dataset (suggested essential or desirable data fields to be collected for monitoring and evaluation) contained in the standards were divided. Some thought it useful, but others considered it onerous or aspirational, and it was unclear whether all service delivery stakeholders would have the resources or capacity to collect and analyse the data.

Conclusions

The delivery of the standards could be enhanced by a comprehensive communication strategy and by addressing the lack of funding, workforce delivery capacity and skills/capacity required to collect and interpret the proposed minimum national dataset.
Retrospective observational study of the association between changes in physical activity and frailty in middle-aged and older adults: evidence from the Korean Longitudinal Study of Aging (2006–2022)
Authors: Jung Ye Jun , Kim Junhyuk , Jang Yun Seo , Park Eun-Cheol
Published: January 2025

Objectives

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between changes in physical activity and frailty among middle-aged and older adults in Korea, using panel data from the 2006–2022 Korean Longitudinal Study of Aging (KLoSA).

Design

Retrospective observational study.

Setting

For this longitudinal panel study, data were sourced from the KLoSA dataset.

Participants

We analysed data from 5594 participants (2855 males and 2739 females) extracted from KLoSA data collected between 2006 and 2022.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

The frailty index was calculated based on 6 clinical domains comprising 34 age-related health deficits. Changes in physical activity were categorised as persistently inactive, decreased, increased or persistently active. Logistic regression analysis using generalised estimating equations was conducted to assess the association between changes in physical activity and frailty.

Results

The persistently active group (OR=0.45, 95% CI: 0.40 to 0.50) showed a lower likelihood of frailty than did the persistently inactive group. In the group that increased their physical activity, the OR was 0.57 (95% CI: 0.52 to 0.63), and higher ORs were observed for current smokers and those residing in rural areas.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated that persistent and increased physical activity is associated with lower frailty in middle-aged and older adults in Korea. Therefore, participation in physical activity in the older adults is one of the important ways to prevent frailty.
Diagnostic yield of cystic fibrosis from a South Australian monocentric cohort: a retrospective study
Authors: Markulić Jasmina , Fuller Maria
Published: January 2025

Objectives

To determine the diagnostic yield of cystic fibrosis (CF) using a two-tiered genetic testing approach. Although newborn screening includes CF, this typically only covers a selection of common genetic variants, and with over 2000 reported in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene, we hypothesised that patients will be missed and present clinically later in life.

Design

A retrospective study over a 5-year period (January 2018–December 2022).

Setting

A single pathology service in South Australia.

Participants

A total of 1909 CF test referrals from patients with clinical suspicion indicated by respiratory and gastrointestinal manifestations, foetal echogenic bowel and male infertility and asymptomatic CF requests for reproductive carrier screening.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

The number and type of CFTR gene variants detected in symptomatic and asymptomatic testing referrals.

Results

A total of 25 patients were diagnosed with CF or CF-related disorders (2.5%) with gastrointestinal symptoms yielding the highest diagnostic rate of 4.4%. Additionally, a total of 79 carriers (4.1%) were identified uncovering a carrier frequency of 1 in 24, which is consistent with the 1 in 25 reported in the Caucasian population. CF was found to be causative of foetal echogenic bowel in 0.83% of cases.

Conclusions

This study highlights the importance of considering CF in symptomatic patients, even in a nation with >99% of newborns screened for CF. Additionally, the identification of CF in this population supports the recommendation for CF genetic testing in reproductive healthcare.
Randomised feasibility study of an intestinal adsorbent in acute diarrhoea in The Gambia
Authors: Rahden Paul , Fatty Abdoulie , Jobarteh Momodou Lamin , Sallah Abdoulwahab , Jaiteh Ebrahim , Allen Angela , Umoh Doreen , Bass Fanta , Dodd Matthew , Howell Carol , Markaryan Elena , Hnatič Radovan , Allen Stephen
Published: January 2025

Background

Diarrhoea remains a leading cause of death in children. An intestinal adsorbent may reduce diarrhoea duration and severity.

Methods

Randomised controlled feasibility trial with two phases: phase 1 (0–4 hours and double-blind) and phase 2 (up to 5 days and open-label). 50 children aged 6–59 months with acute diarrhoea presenting with no or some dehydration to the emergency paediatric unit and outpatient clinic at Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital, Banjul, The Gambia were randomised to either standard treatment (oral rehydration fluid and zinc) or standard treatment with polymethylsiloxane polyhydrate for up to 5 days.

Results

Recruitment was completed in 7 months. All but one child completed the study. There were no major protocol deviations although patient-held diaries did not collect reliable information. Time from randomisation to the last watery stool (primary outcome) was shorter in the intervention than control arm (mean difference −19.3 hours, 95% CI −30.9 to −7.8). Stool frequency was lower in the intervention arm on days 2 (95% CI −0.8 to −1.3 to −0.3) and 3 (95% CI −0.8; −1.3 to −0.3). One serious event (death) occurred in the control arm.

Conclusions

A randomised, controlled trial is feasible. Further clinical trials are warranted to confirm the efficacy of polymethylsiloxane polyhydrate in acute diarrhoea and inform management guidelines.

Trial registration number

PACTR202302683128875.
Stratification system with dual human endogenous retroviruses for predicting immunotherapy efficacy in metastatic clear-cell renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Lu Xiaofan , Vano Yann-Alexandre , Su Xiaoping , Verkarre Virginie , Sun Cheng-Ming , Cheng Wenxuan , Xu Li , Yan Fangrong , Kotti Salma , Fridman Wolf Hervé , Sautes-Fridman Catherine , Oudard Stéphane , Malouf Gabriel G.
Published: January 2025

Background

Endogenous retrovirus (ERV) elements are genomic footprints of ancestral retroviral infections within the human genome. While the dysregulation of ERV transcription has been linked to immune cell infiltration in various cancers, its relationship with immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) response in solid tumors, particularly metastatic clear-cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC), remains inadequately explored.

Methods

This study analyzed patients with metastatic ccRCC from two prospective clinical trials, encompassing 181 patients receiving nivolumab in the CheckMate trials (−009 to –010 and −025) and 48 patients treated with the ipilimumab-nivolumab combination in the BIONIKK trial. ERV expression was quantified using the ERVmap algorithm from RNA sequencing data. Our primary objective was to correlate ERV expression with progression-free survival, with overall survival and time-to-second-treatment survival as secondary endpoints. We used bootstrap methods with univariate Cox regression on 666 substantially expressed ERVs to evaluate their prognostic significance and stability.

Results

Our analysis centered on two ERVs, E4421_chr17 and E1659_chr4, which consistently exhibited opposing prognostic impacts across both cohorts. We developed a stratification system based on their median expression levels, categorizing patients into four ERV subgroups. These subgroups were further consolidated into a three-tier risk model that significantly correlated with ICI treatment outcomes. The most responsive ERV risk category showed enhanced endothelial cell infiltration, whereas the resistant category was characterized by higher levels of myeloid dendritic cells, regulatory T cells, myeloid-derived suppressor cells, and markers of T-cell exhaustion. Notably, this ERV-based classification outperformed traditional transcriptomic signatures in predicting ICI efficacy and showed further improvement when combined with epigenetic DNA methylation markers.

Conclusions

Our findings introduce a dual ERV-based stratification system that effectively categorizes patient risk and predicts clinical outcomes for ccRCC patients undergoing ICI therapy. Beyond enhancing the predictive precision of existing transcriptomic models, this system paves the way for more targeted and individualized approaches in the realm of precision oncology.
The Role of Preconditioning on Landfast Sea Ice Break-off Processes in Admiralty Inlet, Nunavut
Authors: Loewen Ada , Crocker Gregory , Mueller Derek , McKenna Richard
Published: January 2025

Due to changes in the Arctic climate, the timing of spring break-up of landfast sea ice has become less predictable in recent years, which has implications for the traditional lifestyle of Inuit and shipping operations. We use satellite imagery from multiple sources to identify the timing of major spring sea ice break-off events in Admiralty Inlet, Nunavut from 2000 to 2022. The factors leading up to a major break-off event in 2022 are examined more closely using in-situ and reanalysis meteorological and oceanographic data and numerical experiments using a finite element model (FEM). The model enabled us to explore the effects of environmental stresses, aajurait (open leads), and shore leads on sea ice deformation prior to break-off. The development of our modelling approach and interpretation of results was informed by Inuit Knowledge. Modelled stress magnitudes are typically too small for widespread new fractures to occur under typical spring ice conditions. Rather, observations and FEM output suggest the development of leads precondition the ice to allow relatively low wind and current forces to initiate break-off events.
Assessment of the role of pavement preservation in extending service life using the LTPP database
Authors: Okwuenu Chukwunwike , Elbagalati Omar , Dylla Heather , El-Hakim Mohab , Souliman Mena , Elwardany Michael
Published: January 2025

This paper evaluates the effectiveness of four pavement preservation techniques: crack sealing, thin hot mix asphalt (HMA) overlay, chip seal, and slurry seal, using the long-term pavement performance data obtained from the specific pavement study-3 experiment. The impact of the pavement preservation techniques to mitigate longitudinal cracks in the wheel path, and rutting was analyzed. Environmental and cost considerations were employed to understand the role of preservation in extending the service life of highway infrastructure, reducing environmental impacts, and saving cost. Considering the cost and performance of treatments, thin HMA overlay, and chip sealing were the most cost-effective treatments. However, the equivalent CO2 (eCO2) of HMA overlay was higher than other types of treatments. In many cases, chip seal performed best from performance and environmental standing point as it has the lowest eCO2 and displayed effectiveness in extending pavement service life.
Polarization modes of gravitational waves in scalar-tensor-Rastall theory
Authors: Fan Yu-Zhi , Lai Xiao-Bin , Dong Yu-Qi , Liu Yu-Xiao
Published: January 2025

Rastall theory, originally introduced in 1972, suggests a violation of the usual conservation law. We consider two generalizations of Rastall theory: Brans–Dicke–Rastall theory and the newly established scalar-tensor-Rastall theory, the latter being a further generalization of the former. The field equations in these two generalized theories are studied across different parameter spaces, and the polarization modes of gravitational waves, as a key focus, are subsequently investigated. The results show that the polarization modes of gravitational waves in Brans–Dicke–Rastall theory are the same as those in Brans–Dicke theory; specifically, both theories exhibit the plus, cross, and breathing modes. However, in scalar-tensor-Rastall theory, the polarization modes of gravitational waves depend on the parameter space of the theory. Particularly, over a broad range of the parameter space, regardless of some special values of the parameters, it allows only two tensor modes, just as in general relativity, without introducing any additional degrees of freedom. This indicates that Rastall theory offers a novel approach to constructing modified gravity theories that propagate only two tensor degrees of freedom. In the remaining regions of the parameter space, there is also one scalar mode in addition to the two tensor modes. The scalar mode can be either a mixture of the breathing and longitudinal modes or just a pure breathing mode, depending on the parameter space. These results will play a crucial role in constraining the theoretical parameters through future gravitational wave detection projects, such as LISA, Taiji, and TianQin.
A study of classical and quantum cosmology in modified teleparallel gravity and the role of Noether symmetry
Authors: Laya Dipankar , Hembrom Shriton , Dutta Sourav , Chakraborty Subenoy
Published: January 2025

The present work deals with Noether symmetry approach in a modified teleparallel gravity for classical quantum cosmological description. In the background of homogeneous and isotropic flat Friedmann–Lema

$$\hat{\text{ i }}$$

i

^

tre–Robertson–Walker (FLRW) model, the Noether symmetry vector with the associated conserved charge identifies a cyclic variable so that the modified Einstein field equations get simplified and becomes solvable in the present model. In quantum cosmology, the operator version of the conserved associated momentum identifies the oscillatory part of the wave function and consequently it is possible to have the complete wave as the solution of the Wheeler–DeWitt (WD) equation. Finally, it has been examined whether classical singularity can be avoided or not by quantum description.
Integrated Scheduling of Batch Production and Intermediate Delivery with Batch-Position-Based Learning Effect
Authors: Cheng Bayi , Wang Yuqi , Zhou Mi , Zhu Xiaoxi
Published: January 2025

In this paper, we consider a three-stage integrated scheduling problem with learning effect motivated by the applications in semiconductor manufacturing. In the first stage, the jobs are assigned into batches to process on a batching machine, where the processing times are affected by the learning effect. In the second stage, the processed jobs are delivered by a single transporter for further processing. In the third stage, the jobs are individually processed on a single machine. Our objective is to minimize the makespan. We first propose an optimal algorithm with time complexity of [Formula: see text] for the case where jobs have identical sizes. Second, for the case where jobs have identical processing time on batch machine, we propose an approximation algorithm. The absolute and asymptotic worst-case ratios are [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], respectively. Finally, for the general case where jobs have arbitrary sizes and processing times, an approximation algorithm with absolute worst-case ratio of [Formula: see text] and asymptotic worst-case ratio of [Formula: see text] is proposed.
On the laser effect on particle decay in strong-field QED
Authors: Ennadifi Salah Eddine
Published: January 2025

In light of the continuous growing laser technologies and facilities, we consider the effect of laser on particle decay in strong-field Quantum Electrodynamics (QED). For that, we investigate the effect of a strong electromagnetic field [Formula: see text] on the particle decay within the enhanced fluctuations of the surrounding vacuum. In particular, we show that the induced effective mass [Formula: see text] alters its decay width [Formula: see text], thing that results in an extremely small modification of the particle’s lifetime [Formula: see text]. It has been found that this effect corresponds to either a stabilization (longer lifetime) [Formula: see text] or a destabilization (shorter lifetime) [Formula: see text] behavior, depending on the particle’s mass and the strength of the laser field. By approaching the involved physical quantities according to the known data, we discuss the obtained results.
Instability and nonuniqueness in mathematical fluid dynamics
Authors: Bruè Elia
Published: January 2025

In this note, we review and expand upon the material presented in the minicourse titled “Instability and Nonuniqueness in Fluid Dynamics,” which the author held during the “Meeting on Nonlinear Evolution PDEs, Fluid Dynamics, and Transport Equations” at the Ettore Majorana Centre in Erice in May 2023.
Some generalized open sets in ideal topological spacesé
Authors: Akız H. Fulya , Özcan Meryem
Published: January 2025

In this paper, we introduce generalized open sets, namely [Formula: see text]-pre-I-open, [Formula: see text]-semi-I-open, and [Formula: see text]-b-I-open sets in ideal topological spaces. We explain these notions thoroughly in the light of examples. Then, we give some of their properties and explore the relationships between these generalized open sets. Moreover, we define the [Formula: see text]-b-I-Hausdorff space in ideal topological spaces.
Potential applications of POSS-based fluorescent materials in fingerprint developments
Authors: Song Yufei , Li Wensi
Published: January 2025

Latent fingerprint (LF) visualization remains a critical and challenging technique in criminal investigations, security surveillance, and forensic science, primarily due to limitations in sensitivity, contrast, and reliability. Polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxanes (POSS)-based materials have promoted this field by leveraging their nanoscale architecture, customizable fluorescence properties, and exceptional photostability. This review paper has provided a comprehensive analysis of the structural characteristics and functionalized strategies of POSS, which emphasized their integration with organosilicon fluorescent materials for high-performance fingerprint visualization. Furthermore, the potential application of POSS composites, including enhanced detection sensitivity, substrate adaptability, and environmental resilience, has been systematically explored. Finally, this review paper has highlighted future research directions, such as improving material sustainability, optimizing cost-effectiveness, and fostering interdisciplinary innovation, which has bridged laboratory advances with practical forensic applications.
Exploring the significance of true substrates in a Pennsylvanian fluvio-estuarine tidal flat
Authors: Buatois Luis A. , Mángano M. Gabriela , Maples Christopher G.
Published: January 2025

The Pennsylvanian Tonganoxie Sandstone of Kansas contains examples of true substrates in tidal rhythmites formed in a tidal flat at the fluvio-estuarine transition of a macrotidal valley. These surfaces are characterized by an impressive preservation of biogenic and physical sedimentary structures, indicative of the coexistence of low-energy tidal currents and freshwater conditions together with brief periods of subaerial exposure. Biogenic activity corresponds to a time of stasis during or immediately after accumulation of ebb-phase clay followed by low tide. Deposition-stasis-deposition (D-S-D) was involved in the formation and preservation of these true substrates, with only a few instances of deposition-stasis-erosion-deposition (D-S-E-D). Crosscutting relationships among biogenic structures and of these with physical sedimentary structures suggest a tidally controlled taphonomic pathway, which indicates that these true substrates represent short-term time-averaged surfaces at the scale of a few hours, rather than snapshots. True substrates preserved in tidal rhythmites are widespread in other late Palaeozoic tide-dominated estuarine deposits of the North American Midcontinent. The likelihood and quality of preservation seem to show spatial and temporal trends at various scales that ultimately reflect a complex interplay of abiotic factors (e.g. sedimentary dynamics) and biotic factors (e.g. secular changes in intensity and depth of bioturbation).
Fernweh Interdisciplinary Research Visualizer: A Data Visualization Tool for Interdisciplinary Research Scoping
Authors: Carradini Stephen , Carradini Barbara
Published: January 2025

The Fernweh Interdisciplinary Research Visualizer is a software tool employing the SCOPUS cross-disciplinary dataset to display the scope of research on interdisciplinary topics across subject areas in a bubble graph format. Researchers can conduct meta-research, discover relevant research across subject areas, and introduce students to the scope of interdisciplinary concepts with this tool. This experience report outlines the process of developing the tool, then demonstrates the results of the tool by visualizing a map of the interdisciplinary research area "social media" across 27 subject areas, 329 classifications, and 42,473 journals.
Review of "Privacy matters: Conversations about surveillance in and beyond the classroom by Estee Beck and Les Hutchinson Campos," Beck E, & Hutchinson Campos, L. (Eds.). (2020).
Privacy Matters: Conversations about surveillance in and beyond the classroom.
Utah State University Press
Authors: Puntasecca Tina
Published: January 2025

Privacy matters: Conversations about surveillance within and beyond the classroom
presents a salient investigation into the impacts of surveillance upon writing education, embodiment, and culture. Authors Estee Beck and Les Hutchinson Campos set out to constellate surveillance-focused rhetoric, writing, and technical communication scholarship to empower educators, administrators, and professionals to "subvert the state" by investigating how privacy and surveillance impact writing practices, agency, community, identity formation, and citizenship. Organized thematically into three parts---surveillance and classrooms, surveillance and bodies, and surveillance and culture---this 2020 edited collection presents a snapshot in time of surveillance in writing technology as it is broadly defined, inviting scholars to continue the discussion as surveillance and cultures continue an entangled evolution.
Redrawing the Maps: Digital Literacy Practices of Grassroots Activists
Authors: Buck Amber
Published: January 2025

This research used a participant observer method to describe and analyze the digital literacy practices of one grassroots community group that organized around the issue of municipal city council redistricting. The group proposed and advocated for city council district lines that reflected the minority-majority makeup of the city's population. The group effectively crafted different genres, including informational Google Docs, maps, form letters, petitions, social media graphics, press releases, and public speeches to advocate for their position. This research argues for the study of activists' digital literacy practices and the role of digital technology in activist efforts.
Honoring Dr. Halcyon Lawrence's Legacy in the Technical Communication Classroom
Authors: Hutter Liz
Published: January 2025

Over the course of my friendship with Dr. Halcyon Lawrence, I would often spend weekday evenings completing a mundane chore like washing dishes or feeding the cat. I would then hear my phone's alert for an incoming text message: "I need company. Are you working tonight?" Within 30 minutes or so Halcyon and I were on Zoom, cameras off, and nothing displayed on screen but our login names. Other times I'd receive a text like "I need your advice. Do you have time?" and we convened over the phone. When we talked, answers to our mutual question "How was your day?" prompted stories, and those stories led to musings and reflections. When I became befuddled when an assignment would flop or disappointed by a flat discussion, Halcyon gently queried, "So what were you trying to do?" or "Why do you think that activity didn't go well?" Her responses always reoriented me. When venting was no longer productive, we teased apart the problem, speculating what skill or knowledge students needed but had not sufficiently developed. These conversations often gave me enthusiasm for a new pedagogical approach or revealed insights about the gaps in our teaching and our students' learning. In the months since Halcyon's passing, I miss most acutely these nightly conversations about what was happening in our classrooms. My goal in this essay is to underscore the fact that part of Halcyon's legacy as a social justice-oriented technical communication scholar is her ethos as a teacher and collaborator who cared capaciously about student learning and the development of teaching practices and assignments.
Performance Modeling of Public Permissionless Blockchains: A Survey
Authors: Esmaili Molud , Christensen Ken
Published: January 2025

Public permissionless blockchains facilitate peer-to-peer digital transactions, yet face performance challenges, specifically minimizing transaction confirmation time to decrease energy and time consumption per transaction. Performance evaluation and prediction is crucial in achieving this objective, with performance modeling as a key solution despite the complexities involved in assessing these blockchains. This survey examines prior research concerning the systems used to model blockchain performance, specifically focusing on public permissionless blockchains. Initially, it provides foundational knowledge about these blockchains and the crucial performance parameters for their assessment. Additionally, the study delves into research on the performance modeling of public permissionless blockchains, predominantly considering these systems as bulk service queues. It also examines prior studies on workload and traffic modeling, characterization, and analysis within these blockchain networks. By analyzing existing research, our survey aims to provide insights and recommendations for researchers keen on enhancing the performance of public permissionless blockchains or devising novel mechanisms in this domain.
Psyllium: A Nutraceutical and Functional Ingredient in Foods
Authors: Zhang Yaqiong , Luo Yinghua , Gao Boyan , Yu Liangli
Published: January 2025

Psyllium is an excellent natural source of soluble and insoluble dietary fiber. It has been used as a nutraceutical and functional ingredient in foods. Many efforts have been made to understand and improve its physicochemical, biological, and functional properties to promote its food applications. This manuscript reviews and discusses the current knowledge of psyllium, focusing on its health benefits, utilizations as a functional additive in foods and hydrogel delivery carrier, approaches to modify its molecular and chemical structures, nonfood utilizations, and potential side effects and toxicity. Perspectives on future research and development of psyllium are also provided. This review may serve as a scientific foundation for improved food application of psyllium to enhance human health and food quality.
Dual-Continuum Models of Electrochemical Transport in Porous Electrodes
Authors: Yang Xiaoyu , Tartakovsky Daniel M.
Published: January 2025

Pseudo two-dimensional (P2D) models of electrochemical transport are routinely deployed to predict macroscopic behavior of energy storage devices. While being accurate at low C-rates, these models are generally recognized to perform poorly at operating conditions representative of fast charge and discharge (high C-rates). This relative drop in the P2D models’ ability to reproduce experimental data at high C-rates is attributed to many sources, among which are the limitations of their representation of ion transport in porous electrodes. We present a dual-continuum electrochemical model that describes the solid phase and electrolyte as two interconnected continua, which coexist at every point (elementary representative volume) of a battery. Being grounded in homogenization theory, our model has a rigorous mathematical foundation and offers an intuitive interpretation. Our numerical experiments with both a conceptual lithium cell and a commercial NMC (Nickel Manganese Cobalt Oxide, LiNi0.8Mn0.1Co0.1O2) cell demonstrate that the dual-continuum model outperforms its P2D counterpart in predicted the lithiation curves. It does so over a wide range of C-rates, without resorting to a model reparametrization.
Ultrasensitive Screen-Printed-Electrodes for p-aminophenol Analysis and Applications in Bioremediation and Photodegradation Processes
Authors: Silga Jean‑Philippe Théodore , Mbokou Foukmeniok Serge , Bako Yibor Fabrice Roland , Chaouch Ramdane Assia , Nazerifar Maryam , Younesi Habibollah , Tapsoba Issa , Maxime Pontié
Published: January 2025

A screen-printed electrode (SPE) was successfully activated and modified by electrodeposition of nickel (II) tetrasulfonated phthalocyanine film (poly-NiTSPc) for the electrochemical analysis of para-aminophenol (PAP). Cyclic voltammetry, differential pulse voltammetry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) experiments were performed to characterize the SPE. Calibration curves were determined in the concentration range of 0.1 mg l−1 to 2.4 mg l−1 using the tested electrodes and linear relationships were resolved between peak current intensities and PAP concentrations. The limits of detection (LOD) obtained were 74 μg l−1, 34 μg l−1, 29 μg l−1 and 26 μg l−1 for unmodified SPE, poly-NiTSPc/SPE, activated/SPE and poly-NiTSPc/activated SPE, respectively. The poly-NiTSPc/activated SPE was applied for the bioremediation study of PAP using Trichoderma harzianum in a fungal microbial fuel cell (MFC). Our results showed a first-order kinetic degradation with a kinetic constant of 0.063 h−1 at 20 °C and a half-time of degradation of 11 h for an initial concentration of 100 mg l−1. Subsequently, we assessed the poly-NiTSPc/activated SPE for PAP identification as a by-product of crystal violet degradation in a photocatalytic system using Ag/FeVO4 as a photocatalyzor in the presence of H2O2.
Optimization of III-Phosphide Light Emitting Diodes via Spacer and Electron Blocking Layers
Authors: Anum  , Usman Muhammad , Habib Usman , Ali Shazma
Published: January 2025

This article presents a theoretical study of red light-emitting diodes based on AlGaInP. We reported an increase in the functioning of the device with two distinct spacer layers and EBL layers to the p-region. The issue of the uneven carrier distribution in the active zone has decreased. The hole injections are noticeably better in all the QWs. The imbalance between the concentrations of electrons and holes in the emission region is less than in the standard structure. Each QW makes a significant contribution to the process of radiation recombination. It is therefore possible to reduce the efficiency droop in this way.
Association between resting-state synaptic activity and overall performance in a cognitive visuoconstructive task as revealed by magnetoencephalography
Authors: James Lisa M. , Leuthold Arthur C. , Georgopoulos Apostolos P.
Published: January 2025

Does successful task performance depend on the resting-state, background activity of brain areas involved? We used magnetoencephalography to obtain estimates of this activity that we then correlated with the average score of performing three visuospatial tasks outside the magnetoencephalography session. Task performance correlated positively with resting-state activity mostly in right-sided brain regions, broadly agreeing with existing knowledge from neuropsychological and other studies. These results point to a priming effect of background neural activity on task performance.
SLC1A4 Promotes Malignant Transformation of Hepatocellular Carcinoma by Activating the AKT Signaling
Authors: Zheng Jiaoyun , Gong Jian
Published: January 2025

Due to the difficulty in early diagnosis and the lack of treatment for advanced disease, the mortality rate of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is high, and the 5‐year overall survival rate is low at present. SLC1A4 is a neutral amino acid transporter, but its regulatory role and mechanism in HCC are still unclear. Through analyzing the TCGA database and clinical tissue specimens, this study uncovered the high expression of SLC1A4 in tumor tissues of HCC. Worse more, a high level of SLC1A4 may lead to a poor prognosis of HCC. Mechanically, silencing SLC1A4 inhibited the phosphorylation activation of AKT by suppressing the ubiquitin modification of AKT at lysine 63 and amino acid influx represented by D‐serine, decreasing the protein level of β‐catenin in the cell nucleus and suppressing the transcriptional activity of c‐Myc and EpCAM promoters. As a result, silencing SLC1A4 inhibited the proliferation, migration, and stemness of hepatic cancer cells, which was successfully reversed by the introduction of exogenous AKT. Moreover, epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) in vitro and metastasis potential in vivo of hepatic cancer cells was suppressed by the downregulated SLC1A4 level. In conclusion, SLC1A4 promotes the malignant transformation of HCC through activating signal transduction mediated by AKT. The findings in this study suggested that SLC1A4 may be a diagnostic indicator for the early HCC and a therapeutic target for the advanced HCC.
Assessing the Toxicity of Peracetic Acid to Parr, Smolt, and Post‐Smolt Atlantic Salmon Salmo salar in RAS Water
Authors: Redman Natalie , Straus David L. , Murray Megan , Good Christopher
Published: January 2025

The risk associated with the presence of bacterial and fungal pathogens in recirculating aquaculture systems (RASs) has resulted in an industry‐wide need for low‐cost, safe, and effective disinfectants. The toxicity of peracetic acid (PAA) to Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) eggs, fry, and fingerlings (~16.3 g) in freshwater RAS water has been previously assessed; however, its toxicity to later juvenile life‐stages was yet to be investigated. The 24‐h LC50 value of PAA was determined for parr ( = 47 g), smolt ( = 66.5 g), and post‐smolt ( = 176.7 g) Atlantic salmon in RAS water static PAA treatments. The 24‐h LC50 values were calculated using the trimmed Spearman–Karber (TSK) method and toxicity relationship analysis program (TRAP). TRAP LC50 values for parr, smolt, and post‐smolt were 4.26, 4.27, and 4.78 mg/L PAA, respectively, while TSK LC50 values for parr, smolt, and post‐smolt were 4.27, 3.94, and 4.65 mg/L PAA, respectively. These 24‐h LC50 values provide novel guidance for developing safe PAA treatment protocols for Atlantic salmon parr, smolt, and post‐smolt in freshwater RAS, although the influence of varying water quality scenarios needs to be considered.
Successful Treatment With Evocalcet Against Familial Hypocalciuric Hypercalcemia Type 3 (FHH3) Identified by AP2S1 Gene Mutation (p.Arg15Leu)
Authors: Chida Ai , Hasegawa Yutaka , Segawa Toshie , Yamabe Daisuke , Yan Hirotaka , Chiba Yusuke , Chiba Hiraku , Kinno Hirofumi , Oda Tomoyasu , Takahashi Yoshihiko , Nata Koji , Ishigaki Yasushi
Published: January 2025

Background: Familial hypocalciuric hypercalcemia type 3 (FHH3) is a rare hereditary disorder caused by a heterozygous AP2S1 gene mutation, characterized by hypocalciuria and hypercalcemia due to impaired intracellular signal transduction of calcium (Ca)‐sensing receptors (CaSRs). All affected patients harbored a heterozygous missense mutation at the Arg15 residue of the encoded AP2σ1.

Case Presentation: A 21‐year‐old female was referred to our hospital with hypercalcemia and reduced bone mineral density (BMD) detected during a preoperative examination for scoliosis surgery. She had a developmental disorder and exhibited hypocalciuria on urinalysis. Genetic testing revealed a heterozygous AP2S1 gene mutation (p.Arg15Leu), and the patient was diagnosed with FHH3. In the present case, we investigated the effects of evocalcet, a newly approved CaSR agonist. Treatment with evocalcet gradually decreased and normalized the serum Ca level, and promoted improvements in bone metabolism, without serious adverse events.

Conclusion: Evocalcet may be a promising therapeutic candidate for symptomatic FHH3.
Predicting the Treatment Response of Patients With Major Depressive Disorder to Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors Using Machine Learning Techniques and EEG Functional Connectivity Features
Authors: Wang Fanglan , You Zifan , Zhang Tingkai , Xu Kai , Wang Liangliang , He Jingqi , Tang Jinsong
Published: January 2025

Background: Escitalopram and sertraline are first‐line medications for treating depression. They belong to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and are widely used due to their effectiveness and fewer side effects. However, despite the significant efficacy of escitalopram and sertraline, there is a large variation among individuals. Therefore, predicting symptom improvement based on the baseline period is crucial.

Methods: In this study, we conducted functional connectivity (FC) analysis of electroencephalogram (EEG) data during resting‐state with eyes closed, resting‐state with eyes open, watching neutral videos, negative videos, and comedy videos for 30 untreated depression patients over 2 weeks. Each modality yielded 18 EEG FC features. Based on the treatment response at 8 weeks, patients were divided into treatment‐effective and treatment‐ineffective groups. The dataset was randomly split into a 75% training set and a 25% independent test set. Feature selection was performed on these FC features in the training set, and the selected features were used to classify the effective and ineffective groups using the support vector machine (SVM) machine learning algorithm. Fivefold cross‐validation was conducted on the training set to obtain validation results, followed by testing on the test set. The Spearman’s correlation method was used to analyze the correlation between each EEG feature value and the reduction rate of the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale for Depression (HAMD‐17) scores from baseline to 8 weeks, with Bonferroni correction applied.

Results: The study found that out of all modalities, 33 features achieved classification accuracies of over 95% on the validation set, and two features achieved classification accuracies of over 85% on the independent test set. A total of 58 feature values were found to be correlated with the reduction rate of HAMD‐17 scores from baseline to 8 weeks.

Conclusions: The findings from this research suggest that EEG FC features at baseline can be used to differentiate between effective and ineffective groups with high accuracy using machine learning models. Multiple feature values and HAMD‐17 scores were found to be correlated with the reduction rate of HAMD‐17 scores from baseline to 8 weeks, and these correlated feature values can be used to predict treatment efficacy.

Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT05775809
Highly Transparent Spectral Tunable Electrochromic Window Based on Solid‐State WO3 Thin Films
Authors: Patel Malkeshkumar ,   Manutious, Ghosh Shuvaraj , Cho Seunghee , Kim Joondong
Published: January 2025

Energy conservation is crucial for sustainable growth. Electrochromic window devices, which regulate optical transmittance using light‐tunable materials like WO3, can significantly reduce both thermal and visual energy consumption in buildings. In this study, we developed solid‐state WO3 thin film‐based electrochromic window using room‐temperature sputtering. The WO3 film was grown through reactive sputtering of a tungsten target, resulting in highly transparent films with structural and optical properties well‐suitable for electrochromic devices. These films exhibit efficient coloration and fast response times. WO3‐based electrochromic devices offer superior modulation across ultraviolet, visible, and infrared (IR) wavelengths, blocking over 95% of IR wavelengths. Key performance metrics include a coloration efficiency of 96.96 cm2 C−1, optical modulation of 68.5% in the visible region, reversibility of 88.1%, and response time of 10 s (coloration time) and 24 s (bleaching time). These results highlight the potential of WO3‐based electrochromic windows for energy conservation, making them ideal for integration into building structures as energy‐sustainable entities.