bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Australian Community Pharmacists' Preparedness to Offer and Discuss Hepatitis C Testing and Treatment With Pharmacy Clients: A Representative Cross‐Sectional Survey
Authors: Ong Elissa , Xia Ting , Laing Rose , Richmond Jacqueline A. , Higgs Peter , Hayes Mark , Doyle Joseph S. , Nielsen Suzanne , Picco Louisa
Published: January 2025

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has set goals to eliminate hepatitis C (HCV) as a global health threat by 2030. To meet this goal, Australia must increase testing and diagnosis, including expanding access to care through community pharmacists. This study aims to explore community pharmacists' preparedness to discuss and offer HCV testing and treatment. Australian community pharmacists from four states completed an online anonymous quantitative survey between August and October 2023. Pharmacists were asked about their experiences of, comfort discussing and willingness to host outreach HCV testing or treatment. Predictors of each outcome were examined using logistic regression. In total, 530 pharmacists participated in the study. One in five pharmacists stocked HCV medications (22%), half (48%) were willing/somewhat willing to host an outreach HCV testing and treatment team, while 36% strongly agreed/agreed they were comfortable discussing HCV testing and treatment. Willingness to host an outreach HCV team was associated with pharmacists working in rural/remote settings (95% CI: 1.04–2.35, p = 0.032), providing opioid agonist treatment (95% CI: 1.16–2.49, p = 0.006) and comfort discussing overdose prevention (95% CI: 1.31–2.80, p = 0.001). Pharmacists with ≥ 15 years' experience (95% CI: 0.44–0.94, p = 0.022) were less willing to host outreach HCV testing. Females were significantly less comfortable discussing HCV testing (95% CI: 0.45–0.98, p = 0.039) compared to males. This is the first Australian study to explore community pharmacists' preparedness to discuss and offer HCV testing and treatment. In light of research showing that community pharmacy models of care can help meet HCV elimination targets, ongoing engagement with pharmacists is needed to increase their preparedness to provide this care.
Usefulness of Mesh Reinforcement in Pubic Fixation Urethral Sling Surgery for Urinary Incontinence After Radical Prostatectomy
Authors: Suzuki Yasutomo , Hodotsuka Naoto , Kuribayashi Eigo , Suzuki Kyota , Honda Yuichiro , Endo Shuma , Kondo Yukihiro
Published: January 2025

Objectives

In our institution, a unique sling technique is performed for urinary incontinence after radical prostatectomy. However, in cases of severe urinary incontinence or in the medium to long term, the therapeutic effect may be insufficient. Therefore, a urethral sling technique that provides stronger compression of the bulbar urethra was developed, and its effectiveness was compared with the conventional technique.

Methods

Seventeen cases of conventional sling surgery and 16 cases of improved sling surgery were included. The number of pads used per day, safety pad rate, and International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire Short Form (ICIQ‐SF) were evaluated before and after surgery, and a retrospective comparison was made between the two groups. Furthermore, patients were divided into those who used ≤ 4 pads per day before surgery and those who used ≥ 5 pads per day, and the difference between the two groups was examined. We also examined changes over time between groups.

Results

Compared with the conventional group, the improved group showed significant improvement in the number of pads per day, safety pad rate, and ICIQ‐SF 18 months after surgery. In the group with ≤ 4 preoperative pads, the improved group showed significant improvement in all safety pad rates except at 1 and 12 months after surgery. There were no significant differences in all items between the two groups when the number of preoperative pads was ≥ 5.

Conclusions

The improved urethral sling technique appeared to contribute to improving moderate urinary incontinence by adding a simple procedure, especially for patients using ≤ 4 pads per day.
Circumpolar Population Structure, Diversity and Recent Evolutionary History of the Bearded Seal in Relation to Past and Present Icescapes
Authors: McCarthy Morgan L. , Martínez Alba Refoyo , Ferguson Steven H. , Rosing‐Asvid Aqqalu , Dietz Rune , De Cahsan Binia , Schreiber Lennart , Lorenzen Eline D. , Hansen Rikke Guldborg , Stimmelmayr Raphaela , Bryan Anna , Quakenbush Lori , Lydersen Christian , Kovacs Kit M. , Olsen Morten Tange
Published: January 2025

The Arctic environment plays a critical role in the global climate system and marine biodiversity. The region's ice‐covered expanses provide essential breeding and feeding grounds for a diverse assemblage of marine species, who have adapted to thrive in these harsh conditions and consequently are under threat from global warming. The bearded seal (Erignathus barbatus), including two subspecies (E. barbatus nauticus—Pacific and E. barbatus barbatus—Atlantic), is an ice‐obligate Arctic species using sea ice for many aspects of its life history, rendering it particularly vulnerable to sea ice loss. It is one of the least studied and hence enigmatic of the Arctic marine mammals, with little knowledge regarding genetic structure, diversity, adaptations, and demographic history, consequently hampering management and conservation efforts. Here, we sequenced 70 whole nuclear genomes from across most of the species' circumpolar range, finding significant genetic structure between the Pacific and the Atlantic subspecies, which diverged during the Penultimate Glacial Period (~200 KYA). Remarkably, we found fine‐scale genetic structure within both subspecies, with at least two distinct populations in the Pacific and three in the Atlantic. We hypothesise sea‐ice dynamics and bathymetry had a prominent role in shaping bearded seal genetic structure and diversity. Our analyses of highly differentiated genomic regions can be used to complement the health, physiological, and behavioural research needed to conserve this species. In addition, we provide recommendations for management units that can be used to more specifically assess climatic and anthropogenic impacts on bearded seal populations.
The Plant Ionome as a Functional Trait: Variation across Bioclimatic Regions and Functional Groups
Authors: Katz Ofir , Moura Renan Fernandes , Gruntman Michal , Sternberg Marcelo
Published: January 2025

Plant chemical composition is a trait gaining increasing importance in plant ecology. However, there is limited research on the patterns and drivers of its variation among different plant functional groups and bioclimatic regions. We conducted an analysis of ionomes utilising X‐ray fluorescence on 83 plant species from four distinct functional groups (grasses, legumes, forbs and woody species); we marked plots across 15 sites located in both the desert and Mediterranean bioclimatic regions. The primary factors influencing variations in ionomes are predominantly attributed to bioclimatic factors rather than soil composition. Across all functional groups, plants from the Mediterranean region are characterised by greater association with calcium, whereas desert plants exhibit a higher affinity for strontium (Sr), suggesting its potential role in drought tolerance. Among functional groups, grasses uniquely exhibit distinct ionomic features, primarily due to their higher silicon (Si) concentrations. Plant species' affinities for certain elements and their interactions are likely driven by physiological constraints, whereas variations within a functional group are mostly driven by environmental conditions. We conclude that interactions among elements form physiological phenotypes shaped by natural selection under large‐scale environmental variability, making plant ionome composition an important plant functional trait.
The Role of Technological Media, Knowledge Sharing, and Organizational Culture in Promoting Sustainable Development in the Workplace: A Structural Equation Modeling Approach
Authors: Kamaroellah R. Agoes , Anwar Moh. Muhlis
Published: January 2025

This study investigates the interconnected roles of technological media (TM), knowledge sharing (KS), and organizational culture (OC) in driving sustainable development (SD) within organizations. Data were gathered from workers in several major Indonesian cities using a survey-based method, and 356 valid answers were examined using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). The results show that while technological media does not directly influence sustainable development, it significantly enhances knowledge sharing and organizational culture, which, in turn, positively impact sustainable development initiatives. The study emphasizes the significance of organizational culture in influencing sustainability results and the function of knowledge exchange as a major mediator in the interaction between technological media and sustainable development, suggesting that organizations must foster a culture of collaboration and sustainability to achieve long-term success. The results offer valuable insights for managers and policymakers seeking to integrate digital tools and foster organizational culture to support sustainability in the workplace.
Orthodontic approach in patients with osteogenesis imperfecta
Authors: Izzi Francesca , Frijo Graziano , Romito Myriam , Calugi Benvenuti Clarissa , Izzi Gabriele , Severino Marco , Nagni Matteo
Published: January 2025

This review aims to investigate treatment strategies for patients diagnosed with osteogenesis imperfecta (OI). The article is based on a literature search on websites and scientific journals such as PubMed, the European Journal of Orthodontics, and the American Journal of Orthodontics. Orthodontic treatment has a positive impact on the oral cavity and adjacent structures. Patients with OI can undergo orthodontic treatment since these types of medications do not affect the incidence of osteonecrosis in children and adolescents. Orthognathic treatments in patients with OI who take bisphosphonates are longer, more intricate, and involve slower healing periods compared to treatments in healthy individuals. Indeed, treatment must be tailored based on the patient’s age. Orthodontic treatments are necessary in patients with mixed dentition to facilitate the eruption of slower-developing teeth, such as canines, premolars, and second molars. For adult patients, it is essential to collaborate with the orthopedic doctor and develop comprehensive orthodontic, surgical, and prosthetic treatment plan.
Tribological Performance of Carbon Nanospheres as Lubricant Additives: Insights From Molecular Dynamics Simulation and Experimental Analysis
Authors: Wu Bing , Zhu Lin , Sun Yunyun , Wu Shijing
Published: January 2025

To investigate the lubrication mechanism of carbon nanospheres and compare their tribological performance with carbon powder, this study presented a comprehensive analysis of their potential as lubricant additives through both experimental testing and molecular dynamics simulations. Carbon nanospheres were synthesized using the hydrothermal method. Extensive comparisons were conducted between carbon powder and carbon nanospheres, focusing on material characterization, dispersion stability, antifriction performance, and antiwear capability. Findings revealed that carbon nanospheres outperformed carbon powder as lubricant additives in polyalphaolefin 10 (PAO 10) owing to their smaller particle size and spherical shape. Specifically, at a concentration of 1 wt%, a load of 50 N, a disk speed of 10 rpm, and a temperature of 25 °C, the addition of carbon nanospheres reduced the friction coefficient by 34% and wear volume by 35%. The improved tribological performance was linked to the ability of carbon nanospheres to fill the pits, improving the interface smoothness. Molecular dynamics simulation of carbon nanospheres effectively reflected substrate roughness in the bulk region and further confirmed that the filling effects increased the lubricant's load-bearing capacity, which contributed to the reduction of friction and wear. This study provided significant insights into the development of innovative high-performance lubricant additives for oil-based lubrication in metal friction pairs.
Fluid–Structure Interaction Lubrication Analysis of Compliant Journal Bearing Lubricated With Non-Newtonian Plastic Fluid
Authors: Jin Yingze , Niu Qiuli , Qu Yuanpeng
Published: January 2025

High-viscosity plastic fluids and polymer liners are expected to improve the lubrication and load-carrying performance of low-speed and heavy-load journal bearings. The objective of this article is to investigate the elastohydrodynamic lubrication performance of compliant journal bearings lubricated with non-Newtonian plastic fluids (following the Herschel–Bulkley model) using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and fluid–structure interaction (FSI) methods. The following data are obtained: fluid film pressure, total bearing deformation, cavitation volume fraction, bearing capacity, and coefficient of friction. The simulation results closely agree with the data reported in the existing literature. A comparative analysis of the lubrication characteristics of journal bearings with Babbitt metal, PEEK, and PTFE liners at various rotational speeds is presented. The effects of yield stress, power-law index, elastic modulus, and liner thickness on the lubrication characteristics are investigated. The results indicate that the power-law index of non-Newtonian plastic fluids has a greater influence on bearing lubrication performance than the yield stress. Increasing the power-law index could improve the bearing capacity and reduce the coefficient of friction. This research provides a theoretical basis for the application of non-Newtonian plastic fluid-lubricated polymer journal bearings in low-speed and heavy-load equipment.
Texture Parameters' Impact on Computational Efficiencies of Multigrid and Progressive Mesh Densification Methods for Solving Textured Journal Bearing Problems
Authors: Syed Nayab Rasool , Kakoty Sashindra Kumar
Published: January 2025

The numerical solution of textured journal bearings can be obtained by different methods such as progressive mesh densification (PMD), multigrid (MG), and fixed mesh or fixed mesh density (FMD). However, the computational efficiencies of these methods vary greatly while solving textured journal-bearing problems. In the present study, computational efficiencies of the PMD, MG, and FMD methods are compared, by varying texture and bearing parameters such as texture portion, dimple area density, dimple aspect ratio, dimensionless clearance, and dimensionless length, while solving dimple textured journal bearing problems. From this study, it is observed that the PMD method has superior computational efficiency compared to the MG and FMD methods for the range of values of texture and bearing parameters considered in the numerical analysis.
Novel Sustainable Grease Developed From Waste Cooking Mustard Oil and Garlic Oil: A Study of Rheological and Extreme Pressure Properties
Authors: Malik Aamir Hameed , Khan M. Jebran , Wani Mohd Farooq , Parray Mohammad Arif , Saleem Sheikh Shahid
Published: January 2025

The rheological and tribological performances of waste cooking oil (WCO)-based novel sustainable grease with garlic oil as an extreme pressure (EP) additive were examined according to the ASTM standards (ASTM D1092 and ASTM D2783) using a four-ball tester. The commercially available lithium-based grease served as a reference grease for comparing and evaluating the rheological and tribological properties of the WCO-based greases. The addition of 6% garlic oil as an EP additive increased the weld load of WCO-based sustainable grease from 1560 N to 2450 N. The average wear scar diameter of WCO-based and WCO + (GO + 6 wt%) grease is reduced by 13.87% and 19.30%, respectively, compared to that of commercial (MIDCO AP-3) grease. Furthermore, the viscosity and shear stress of WCO-based grease increased with higher thickener concentrations, achieving rheological performance comparable to commercial grease. It is envisaged that garlic oil-filled grease with WCO as base oil will not only have good lubricating properties but will also pose minimum environmental hazards.
Developing a Simplified Linear-Elastic Material Model for Carbon Paper Applied in the Rough Rail–Wheel Contact
Authors: Stratmann Ina , Hoyer Kay-Peter , Schindler Christian
Published: January 2025

The contact between two surfaces can be determined using experimental or numerical methods. Suitable experiments and material models of the contact surfaces are required for the validation of numerical simulations. Paper in combination with carbon paper can be used in experiments to determine the contact area between contact surfaces. A simplified linear-elastic material model of paper was developed for compression in the thickness direction. To evaluate the material model, it was applied to an exemplary wheel–rail contact situation.
The affective iconicity of lexical tone: Evidence from standard Chinese
Authors: Zheng Tingting , Levelt Clara C. , Chen Yiya
Published: January 2025

Previous studies suggested that pitch characteristics of lexical tones in Standard Chinese influence various sensory perceptions, but whether they iconically bias emotional experience remained unclear. We analyzed the arousal and valence ratings of bi-syllabic words in two corpora (Study 1) and conducted an affect rating experiment using a carefully designed corpus of bi-syllabic words (Study 2). Two-alternative forced-choice tasks further tested the robustness of lexical tones' affective iconicity in an auditory nonce word context (Study 3). Hierarchical linear models, generalized linear mixed models, and cross-validation were employed to understand the relationship between lexical tones and the emotional responses of tone-carrying words. Results consistently indicated that words with a falling-falling tonal sequence, both real and nonce words, received higher arousal ratings than those with rising-rising and rising-low tones. Only in nonce words, the high-high sequence was more likely to be associated with the low-arousal option; the falling-falling tone sequence was more often linked to negative-valence choice, while high-high and rising-rising tones with positive-valence. These findings, though subtle, suggest that the use of pitch in lexical tones influences emotional responses during the processing of tone-carrying words, pointing to an inherent iconic quality in lexical tones that may subtly shape speakers' emotional experiences.
Biotin mitigates the development of manganese-induced, Parkinson’s disease–related neurotoxicity in
Drosophila
and human neurons
Authors: Lai Yunjia , Reina-Gonzalez Pablo , Maor Gali , Miller Gary W. , Sarkar Souvarish
Published: January 2025

Chronic exposure to manganese (Mn) induces manganism and has been widely implicated as a contributing environmental factor to Parkinson’s disease (PD), featuring notable overlaps between the two in motor symptoms and clinical hallmarks. Here, we developed an adult
Drosophila
model of Mn toxicity that recapitulated key parkinsonian features, spanning behavioral deficits, neuronal loss, and dysfunctions in lysosomes and mitochondria. Metabolomics analysis of the brain and body tissues of these flies at an early stage of toxicity identified systemic changes in the metabolism of biotin (also known as vitamin B
7
) in Mn-treated groups. Biotinidase-deficient flies showed exacerbated Mn-induced neurotoxicity, parkinsonism, and mitochondrial dysfunction. Supplementing the diet of wild-type flies with biotin ameliorated the pathological phenotypes of concurrent exposure to Mn. Biotin supplementation also ameliorated the pathological phenotypes of three standard fly models of PD. Furthermore, supplementing the culture media of human induced stem cells (iPSCs) differentiated midbrain dopaminergic neurons with biotin protected against Mn-induced mitochondrial dysregulation, cytotoxicity, and neuronal loss. Last, analysis of the expression of genes encoding biotin-related proteins in patients with PD revealed increased amounts of biotin transporters in the substantia nigra compared with healthy controls, suggesting a potential role of altered biotin metabolism in PD. Together, our findings identified changes in biotin metabolism as underlying Mn neurotoxicity and parkinsonian pathology in flies, for which dietary biotin supplementation was preventative.
Draft genome sequence of
Armillaria calvescens
strain YAFA0618 associated with
Gastrodia elata
Authors: Wang Gaosheng , Zeng Yumin , Bu Yuwu , Yuan Xiaolong , Peng Mingjun , Zhao Qianchi , Wang Yi
Published: January 2025

Armillaria calvescens
is a symbiotic fungus of
Gastrodia elata
. Here, we present a draft genome sequence of
A. calvescens
strain YAFA0618. The genome resource will support subsequent research into the relationship between
A. calvescens
and
G. elata
.
Supplemental Material: Contribution of the oldest Paleoproterozoic marine sulfate evaporites to Bushveld Complex Lower Zone mineralization
Authors: Mapiloko 'Mabatho , al. et
Published: January 2025

Analytical methods, coordinates of the studied boreholes (Table S1), simplified stratigraphic columns (Fig. S1), detailed descriptions of the rock samples (Fig. S2), photomicrographs of the analyzed sulfides, and multiple sulfur isotope results (Table S2). 
‘God knows why these Sanghaalis are so rabidly against C-section!’: spectre of medical coloniality haunts doctor-patient relationship in Guruprasad Kaginele’sHijab(2020)
Authors: Karmakar Manali
Published: January 2025

Through the lens of Guruprasad Kaginele’s novelHijab, the issues of intolerance and distrust that exist in American rural hospitals—where the Indian immigrant doctors fail to understand the inhibitions and apprehensions of the African immigrant birthing mothers, turning them into objects of mockery and disgust, despite sharing colonial histories of racialised discrimination, biases and prejudices—are examined. The ruptured relationship between Indian immigrant doctors and Sanghaali Muslim immigrant birthing mothers dramatised in the novel provides an insight into how Indian immigrant doctors’ psyche is unconsciously imbued with medical coloniality, which has not received much scholarly attention. Drawing on critical approaches such as various orders of gaze—male, medical, colonial and imperial—and the concept of intersectionality, the hybrid subjectivities of the Indian immigrant doctors, ruptured doctor-patient relationship, and non-agentic status of the immigrant birthing mothers as represented in the novel are analysed. In light of the issues highlighted in this study, it is recommended that the novelHijabcould be a potential addition to the critical medical humanities curriculum to help medical students understand the cultural roots of racialised prejudices and discriminations, the spectre of which has continued to haunt caregiving in rural American healthcare settings.
ASRA Pain Medicine consensus practice infection control guidelines for regional anesthesia and pain medicine
Authors: Provenzano David Anthony , Hanes Michael , Hunt Christine , Benzon Honorio T , Grider Jay S , Cawcutt Kelly , Doshi Tina L , Hayek Salim , Hoelzer Bryan , Johnson Rebecca L , Kalagara Hari , Kopp Sandra , Loftus Randy W , Macfarlane Alan James Robert , Nagpal Ameet S , Neuman Stephanie A , Pawa Amit , Pearson Amy C S , Pilitsis Julie , Sivanesan Eellan , Sondekoppam Rakesh V , Van Zundert Jan , Narouze Samer
Published: January 2025

Background

To provide recommendations on risk mitigation, diagnosis and treatment of infectious complications associated with the practice of regional anesthesia, acute and chronic pain management.

Methods

Following board approval, in 2020 the American Society of Regional Anesthesia and Pain Medicine (ASRA Pain Medicine) commissioned evidence-based guidelines for best practices for infection control. More than 80 research questions were developed and literature searches undertaken by assigned working groups comprising four to five members. Modified US Preventive Services Task Force criteria were used to determine levels of evidence and certainty. Using a modified Delphi method, >50% agreement was needed to accept a recommendation for author review, and >75% agreement for a recommendation to be accepted. The ASRA Pain Medicine Board of Directors reviewed and approved the final guidelines.

Results

After documenting the incidence and infectious complications associated with regional anesthesia and interventional pain procedures including implanted devices, we made recommendations regarding the role of the anesthesiologist and pain physician in infection control, preoperative patient risk factors and management, sterile technique, equipment use and maintenance, healthcare setting (office, hospital, operating room), surgical technique, postoperative risk reduction, and infection symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment. Consensus recommendations were based on risks associated with different settings and procedures, and keeping in mind each patient’s unique characteristics.

Conclusions

The recommendations are intended to be multidisciplinary guidelines for clinical care and clinical decision-making in the regional anesthesia and chronic interventional pain practice. The issues addressed are constantly evolving, therefore, consistent updating will be required.
Assessment of blended learning palliative care educational programme in cancer treatment centres in India
Authors: Bhatnagar Sushma , Mittal Apoorva , Ho Shirlynn , Leong Giam Cheong , Gupta Raghav , Salins Naveen
Published: January 2025

Objectives

The study evaluates the fifth cohort of the palliative care cancer treatment centres (CTC) educational programme in India with the aim of refining the course on the basis of participant feedback thereby improving palliative care services at cancer centres.

Methods

The intervention included participation in the CTC 5 teaching and training programme, which encompassed foundation course, refresher course, access to palliative care training modules, clinical training and mentorship under palliative care experts. The feedback was taken from all 57 participants (29 doctors and 28 nurses) of CTC 5 programme representing 14 hospitals across nine regions in India. The assessment tools included Likert scale ratings and free-text comments. 3-point and 5-point Likert scale ratings were used to gauge the usefulness of course topics, quality of content and delivery. A mixed methods approach was used for a comprehensive evaluation by taking both quantitative measures of participant inputs and qualitative insights into their experiences and suggestions. The knowledge gained by the participants was analysed using pre-training and post-training assessments.

Results

The feedback obtained from the participants highlighted both strengths and scope for improvement. The foundation course received positive feedback for its sessions, especially on communication skills and pain management. The refresher course received positive feedback for team presentations but lacked sufficient case discussions. The interactive nature of sessions was well-received. Following the CTC 5 programme, participants showed a 30.38% knowledge gain. Overall, the programme exceeded expectations for 62% of participants, highlighting its impact on personal development and clinical practices in palliative care.

Conclusion

The study provides useful insights for designing future palliative care educational courses to address the needs of health professionals. The CTC programme has promising potential to bring about positive changes in both the personal and professional development of participants ultimately improving palliative care services across India.
Macro-micro mechanics of Fujian River sand under triaxial shear using X-ray micro-tomography
Authors: Xiong Wei , Wang Jianfeng , Zhu Zhiren
Published: January 2025

Fujian River sand (FJS) is a complex mixture of minerals and rock fragments shaped by the dynamic geological history of Fujian province, China. The macro-micro mechanical responses of FJS under triaxial shear were carefully investigated through the X-ray tomography-based in-situ triaxial test. By utilizing the particle tracking strategy with the signature of histograms of orientation, both intact and crushed FJS particles can be successfully recognized and tracked at different stages of axial strain. It is found that a. smaller particles are more likely to crush than larger ones, and the crushed particles have more irregular particle shapes than the original set of particles; b. the coordination number, fabric anisotropy, 3D rose map, and particle displacement are found to highly correlate to the phase transition point from volumetric contraction to dilation; c. The sample deformation is found to be uniform at the early stage, and then it starts to spread from the boundaries to the inner part, and finally develops into an inclined shear band; d. locations of particle breakage within the granular assemblage show an overall sporadic and irregular pattern throughout the shearing process, which is not strongly correlated with the shear band developed, even at large strains.
Nonlinear Correct and Smooth for Graph-Based Semi-Supervised Learning
Authors: Shao Yuanhang , Liu Xiuwen
Published: January 2025

Graph-based semi-supervised learning (GSSL) has achieved significant success across various applications by leveraging the graph structure and labeled samples for classification tasks. In the field of GSSL, Label Propagation (LP) and Graph Neural Networks (GNNs) are two complementary methods, in which LP iteratively propagates and updates node labels through connected nodes, whereas GNNs aggregate node features by incorporating information from their neighbors. Recently, the complementary nature of LP and GNNs has been utilized to improve performance through the combination of two approaches. However, the utilization of higher-order graph structures within these combined approaches, such as triangles, is still under-explored. Therefore, to advance understanding in this ongoing research, we first model GSSL as a two-step feature-label process. Then, we introduce Nonlinear Correct and Smooth (NLCS) in the post-processing step, a combined method that incorporates nonlinearity and higher-order structures into the residual propagation to handle intricate node relationships effectively. We propose a new synthetic graph generator to deepen the analysis and broaden the experimentation, providing insights into the mechanisms that enable NLCS to handle intricate node relationships effectively. Our systematic evaluations across six synthetic graphs show that NLCS outperforms base predictions by an average of 12.44% and the existing state-of-the-art post-processing method by 8.04%. Furthermore, on six commonly used real-world datasets, NLCS demonstrates a 10.9% improvement over six base prediction models and a 1.6% over the state-of-the-art post-processing method. Our comparisons and analyses reveal that NLCS substantially enhances the prediction accuracy of nodes within complex graph structures by effectively utilizing higher-order structures of graphs.
CAFE+: Towards Compact, Adaptive, and Fast Embedding for Large-scale Online Recommendation Models
Authors: Liu Zirui , Zhang Hailin , Chen Boxuan , Jiang Zihan , Zhao Yikai , Tao Yangyu , Yang Tong , Cui Bin
Published: January 2025

The growing memory demands of embedding tables in Deep Learning Recommendation Models (DLRMs) pose great challenges for model training and deployment. Existing embedding compression solutions cannot simultaneously achieve memory efficiency, low latency, and adaptability to dynamic data distribution. This article presents CAFE+, a Compact, Adaptive, and Fast Embedding compression framework that meets the above requirements. The design philosophy of CAFE+ is to dynamically allocate more memory to important features and less to unimportant ones. We assign unique embedding to important feature and allow multiple unimportant features sharing one embedding. We propose a fast and lightweight feature monitor, to real-time capture feature importance and report important features. We theoretically analyze the accuracy of our feature monitor and prove the superiority of CAFE+ from the aspect of model convergence. Extensive experiments show CAFE+ outperforms existing embedding compression methods, yielding

\(3.94\%\)

and

\(3.94\%\)

superior testing AUC on Criteo Kaggle dataset and CriteoTB dataset at a compression ratio of

\(10{,}000\times\)

. Building on our conference version [
114
], this journal version introduces several novel designs (implicit importance attenuation, adaptive threshold adjustment, and ColdSifter) that enable CAFE+ to more effectively adapt to long-term online learning and achieve better model quality. All codes are available at GitHub [
112
].
On the Evolution of Qualitative Methods in Organizational Research
Authors: Pratt Michael G.
Published: January 2025

I explore how qualitative research has evolved in organizational research by examining developments in two major areas: how we do qualitative research and how we evaluate it. In particular, I track broad changes in case study, grounded theory, and ethnographic methods, as well as changes in various analytic practices or “moves” common across each as they relate to study design and data collection, coding and analysis, and writing and publishing. In reviewing where the field has been, I discuss areas where qualitative methods have been particularly strong and where there are opportunities for growth. I conclude by discussing the future of qualitative methods as they pertain to the global proliferation of qualitative research, the ongoing challenges to positivist science, and the emergence of artificial intelligence.
Iron Metal Based Positive Electrodes for Metal Fluoride High Energy Lithium Batteries
Authors: Wilson K. L. , Halajko A. , Badway F. , Harrop B. , Amatucci G. G.
Published: January 2025

Lithium-ion batteries are at the forefront of energy storage, ranging from wearables to the automotive and aviation industry, but their performance, safety, and renewability have much room for improvement. Metal fluoride conversion materials, particularly iron fluorides, provide an avenue for growth by improving cost and power densities. A challenge to these materials has been their lack of an intrinsic supply of lithium which must be accommodated by having lithium at the negative electrode or other means. This study presents a novel pathway involving Fe and LiF within a glass forming fluoride to enable the use of metal fluoride in its lithiated state. The LiF composite enhances the kinetics of the Li+ and F− transport required to form FeF3 in-situ. Although presently only in low areal capacity construction, this proof of concept was successfully demonstrated in thin-film form utilizing a backbone of LLZO based solid state electrolyte, in a full solid state battery, that showed over 2 years of cycling and little capacity loss. Furthermore, this clean and isolated system confirmed the formation of FeF3 by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, providing insights on the ion transport of Fe2+ and F− to enable the in-situ formation of FeF3.
Comparative Study on Cyclic Phosphazene-Based Flame Retardants for Ether Electrolytes in Li-S Batteries: Flame Retardancy and Performance Analysis
Authors: song Kemeng , yuan yuan , Chen Hanbing , Lu Ping , Li Ning , Yuan Ningyi , Zeng Fanglei
Published: January 2025

This study presents a systematic investigation of three cyclic phosphazene-based flame retardant additives, hexachlorocyclotriphosphazene (HCCP), hexafluorocyclotriphosphazene (HFPN), and ethoxy-pentafluorocyclotriphosphazene (EtPFPN), for ether-based electrolytes in lithium-sulfur batteries. Through comprehensive analysis of molecular orbital calculations, self-extinguishing time measurements, and electrochemical characterization, we reveal distinct structure-dependent flame retardancy mechanisms and their impact on battery performance. HCCP demonstrates superior flame suppression through P-Cl bond decomposition but exhibits electrochemical instability above 15 wt%. HFPN functions primarily as a co-solvent, achieving significant flame retardancy above 20 wt% while maintaining stable electrochemical performance. EtPFPN emerges as the most promising candidate, effectively integrating into the electrolyte solvation structure to provide optimal flame retardancy, though requiring higher concentrations for complete suppression. Notably, synergistic effects between LiNO3 and the flame-retardant additives enhance both safety and electrochemical stability. These findings provide critical insights for the molecular design of flame-retardant electrolytes in high-performance Li-S batteries, demonstrating the importance of balancing safety enhancement with electrochemical stability through strategic additive selection and concentration optimization.
CuO Nanowire Humidity Sensors Enhanced by Au Nanostructure Prepared on TSV Substrate
Authors: Lai Li-Tsen , Hsueh Han-Ting , Cheng Tsung-Chieh , Chang Shoou-Jinn , Chang Sheng-Po
Published: January 2025

The authors studied the growth of cupric oxide nanowires (CuO NWs) on through-silicon via (TSV) substrates and the subsequent fabrication of humidity sensors utilizing these CuO NWs. We also explored the effect of annealing gold nanoparticles (Au NPs) deposited on CuO NWs through sputtering with varying thicknesses of the Au film (1–5 nm) to enhance the humidity response. The morphology and crystallography of both CuO NWs and Au NPs were characterized using multi-function environmental field-emission scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction techniques. The results indicate that the resistance of the CuO NWs increased with increasing relative humidity, attributed to the p-type conductivity of CuO. Adding the Au NPs further augmented the humidity response. Interestingly, an increase in the initial thickness of the Au film led to a proportional increase in the average diameter of the annealed Au NPs, ranging from 11 to 31 nm for Au film thicknesses of 1–5 nm. Notably, the sample with 11 nm Au NP/CuO NWs exhibited superior sensor response compared to the samples of other thicknesses.
Rab7-regulated ferroptosis contributes to tubular epithelial cells injury by degradation of GPX4 via chaperone-mediated autophagy in AKI
Authors: Liu Lei , Wei Qishuang , Wang Renyu , Sun Hui , He Sijing , Tang Lijuan , Zhang Shuang , Liu Yifei , Yu Shali
Published: January 2025

To explore the mechanism underlying ferroptosis in I/R-induced renal injury and to confirm the effect of Rab7, we first evaluated ferroptosis in renal biopsy samples, and then examined Rab7 expression and renal tubular injury during AKI in vivo and in vitro. Finally, we performed in vitro experiments to investigate the specific role of Rab7 in the regulation of ferroptosis and showed that the regulatory mechanism was related to CMA-mediated GPX4 degradation in renal TECs.
Gut microbiota of patients insusceptible to olanzapine-induced fatty liver disease relieves hepatic steatosis in rats
Authors: Wu Qian , Wang Jing , Tu Chuyue , Chen Peiru , Deng Yahui , Yu Lixiu , Xu Xiaojin , Fang Xiangming , Li Weiyong
Published: January 2025

Patients who were less inclined to have olanzapine-induced fatty liver had different gut microbiota profiles than did those in the susceptible cohort. Lachnospiraceae, Ruminococcaceae, Oscillospiraceae, Butyricicoccaceae, and Christensenellaceae were enriched in patients who were less prone to fatty liver disease caused by olanzapine. Fecal microbiota treatment (FMT) with these fecal samples promoted short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) production, which attenuated the circulating leptin and inhibited FASN and ACC1, thereby suppressing lipid synthesis in the liver, ultimately leading to alleviation of hepatic steatosis.
Curcumin Ameliorates Hydrocortisone‐Induced Leydig Cell Injury and Testicular Dysfunction by Upregulating the Nrf2 Pathway
Authors: Guo Jingjing , Ma Feifei , Li Yang , Ge Renshan , Wu Anshi
Published: January 2025

Curcumin has antifragmentation, antivirus, anti‐infection, and antioxidation properties. Curcumin has been proven to prevent the peroxidation of sperm and testis membranes, thus enhancing sperm motility and reducing sperm abnormalities. This study aims to explore the role of curcumin in improving hydrocortisone (HCT)‐induced Leydig cell injury by upregulating the Nrf2 pathway. Thirty male rats were divided into three groups: control group (CG, n = 10), model group (MG, n = 10), and curcumin treatment group (CTG, n = 10). CG rats were fed 2.5 mL/kg carboxymethyl cellulose as a blank control. MG rats were fed with 10 mg/kg HCT for 2 weeks. CTG rats were fed with 10 mg/kg HCT for 2 weeks and 100 mg/kg curcumin orally every day for 4 consecutive weeks. The ultrastructural score of Leydig cells was higher in the MG than in the CG (p < 0.05) and was lower in the CTG than in the MG (p < 0.05). The levels of Nrf2 and HO‐1 were lower in the MG than in the CG (p < 0.05) and higher in the CTG than in the MG (p < 0.05). Curcumin can improve the biochemical and histological structural damage of rat testes induced by HCT by upregulating Nrf2 expression. This protective effect relies on the Nrf2 pathway inhibiting oxidative stress in the body, increasing testosterone levels and enzyme activity, thereby improving testicular dysfunction caused by interstitial cell damage.
Hydroxytyrosol, a Component of Olive Oil for Breast Cancer Prevention in Women at High Risk of Cancer
Authors: Puri Akshjot , Yin Zheng , Granados-Principal Sergio , Ensor Joe , Guzman Liliana , Rosato Roberto , Zhao Hong , Wong Stephen , Wang Lin , Patel Tejal , Chang Jenny C.
Published: January 2025

Background: This study evaluates the effects of hydroxytyrosol (HT), a component of olive oil, on mammographic breast density reduction. We explored effects of HT on Wnt β‐catenin and other pathways involved in cancer stem cell renewal, DNA repair, cell proliferation, and differentiation.

Methods: Twenty‐five milligrams per day oral dose of HT was given for 12 months in pre‐ and postmenopausal women at increased risk of breast cancer. Out of 51 patients enrolled, 41 completed the study. The annualized percent decrease in maximum mammographic volumetric breast density (max VBD%) between baseline (BL) and end of treatment (EOT) was analyzed. RNA sequencing (RNA‐Seq) and multiplex analysis was performed on the breast biopsies to compare the BL with EOT samples.

Results: Max VBD% showed a nonsignificant change; however, in women 60 years or older, the max VBD% decrease was significant (3.7%, p = 0.0391), especially in those with high BL mammographic density. Using RNA‐Seq, 3330 unique transcripts were identified (p < 0.05). Mitotic telophase/cytokinesis and DNA damage were upregulated, whereas Wnt, Notch, and oxidative stress–induced senescence pathways were downregulated (p < 0.05). These pathways were confirmed by NanoString nCounter where significant decrease in proliferative genes (RELA and CDK4) and Wnt pathway (R‐HSA‐195721 and R‐HAS‐201681) was observed (p < 0.05).

Conclusions: HT reduced breast density only in women over 60 years, especially in those with high BL breast density. HT also reduced proliferation and affected the Wnt signaling pathway. This study lays the foundation for future larger studies in exploring a natural compound with well tolerability and overall nontoxic profile for chemoprevention of breast cancer.

Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT02068092
Characteristics of Workaholism Among Nurses in the Light of Research Conducted in Poland: A Cross‐Sectional Study
Authors: Kunecka Danuta , Milewska Anna Justyna , Iltchev Peter , Kozłowski Remigiusz , Marczak Michał , Kilańska Dorota
Published: January 2025

Aim: The aim of this study is to analyze the phenomenon of workaholism among Polish nurses.

Background: Work may be deemed one of the fundamental or essential forms of human activity. In the case of nurses, the expected level of professional commitment and dedication is above average. This factor may be an important element contributing to developing workaholism, which in turn is a strong prognostic factor for adverse events in the workplace, an especial critical issue in nursing practice.

Methods: This cross‐sectional study was conducted from 2016 to 2019. The research material consisted of 454 questionnaire forms completed by nurses with a confirmed high risk of workaholism.

Results: The mean values obtained in the study indicate the aspects as significant for characterizing the phenomenon of workaholism among nurses: Need for Predictability, Enthusiasm for Work, Impairment of Alternative, Extreme Dutifulness, Inability to Delegate, and Work Compulsion.

Conclusion: The results show that two aspects are particularly significant for characterizing workaholism among Polish nurses: Inability to Delegate and Work as Value. Impairment of Alternative Activities, Extreme Dutifulness, Distributed Social Relations and Awareness, Stress and Anxiety, Enthusiasm for work, Need for predictability, and Work Compulsion proved to be less significant factors of workaholism characteristics in the study group. Therefore, the research attention should primarily focus on two more characteristic areas, e.g., Inability to Delegate and Work as Value, starting with a proper understanding of those concepts.
The Role of Race/Ethnicity on the Association between Neighborhood Deprivation and Breast Cancer Outcomes among Kentucky Patients with Breast Cancer (2010–2022)
Authors: Walker Breyanna , Pollard Elinita , Howard Sydney P. , Jones V. Morgan , O’Connor Kathleen L. , Durbin Eric B. , Hull Pamela C. , Jones Samantha R. , Adegboyega Adebola , Wang Xiaoqin , Owen Wendi A.B. , Szabunio Margaret M. , Williams Lovoria B. , Moore Justin X.
Published: January 2025

Background:

Kentucky is within the top five leading states for breast cancer mortality nationwide. This study investigates the association between neighborhood socioeconomic disadvantage and breast cancer outcomes, including surgical treatment, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and survival, and how associations vary by race and ethnicity in Kentucky.

Methods:

We conducted a retrospective cohort analysis using data from the Kentucky Cancer Registry for patients with breast cancer diagnosed between 2010 and 2017, with follow-up through December 31, 2022. We linked Kentucky Cancer Registry data with census tract data to examine the relationship between area deprivation index (ADI) and breast cancer outcomes. Logistic regression and Cox proportional hazards models analyzed binary outcomes and time-to-event data, respectively.

Results:

Women in the most disadvantaged (ADI fourth quartile) neighborhoods were more likely to be diagnosed at later stages (OR, 1.26; 95% confidence interval, 1.12–1.41) and 34% more likely to die from breast cancer (HR, 1.34; 95% confidence interval, 1.14–1.57) after adjusting for age, race, tobacco use, tobacco pack-years, marital status, insurance status, family history, stage at diagnosis, breast cancer subtype, and residence in Appalachia when compared with women living in the least disadvantaged neighborhoods (ADI first quartile).

Conclusions:

Women in disadvantaged neighborhoods had significantly higher odds of late-stage diagnosis and breast cancer death, regardless of race, indicating that neighborhood factors contribute to breast cancer disparities.

Impact:

Socioeconomic and neighborhood factors may contribute to breast cancer outcomes, suggesting the necessity for targeted interventions. Future research should explore the effectiveness of such interventions and investigate additional social determinants contributing to disparities.