bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genotype-driven sensitivity of mice to tick-borne encephalitis virus correlates with differential host responses in peripheral macrophages and brain
Authors: Berankova Michaela , Holoubek Jiri , Hönig Vaclav , Matusova Zuzana , Palus Martin , Salat Jiri , Krayem Imtissal , Vojtiskova Jarmila , Svoboda Pavel , Pranclova Veronika , Valihrach Lukas , Demant Peter , Lipoldova Marie , Ruzek Daniel
Published: January 2025

Background

Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is the most common tick-borne viral infection in Eurasia. Outcomes range from asymptomatic infection to fatal encephalitis, with host genetics likely playing a role. BALB/c mice have intermediate susceptibility to TBE virus (TBEV) and STS mice are highly resistant, whereas the recombinant congenic strain CcS-11, which carries 12.5% of the STS genome on the BALB/c background, is more susceptible than BALB/c mice. In the present study, we employed these genetically distinct mouse models to investigate the host response to TBEV infection in both peripheral macrophages, one of the initial target cell populations, and the brain, the terminal target organ of the virus.

Methods

TBEV growth and the production of key cytokines and chemokines were measured and compared in macrophages derived from BALB/c, CcS-11, and STS mice. In addition, brains from these TBEV-infected mouse strains underwent in-depth transcriptomic analysis.

Results

Virus production in BALB/c and CcS-11 macrophages exhibited similar kinetics 24 and 48 h post-infection (hpi), but CcS-11 macrophages yielded significantly higher titers 72 hpi. Macrophages from both sensitive strains demonstrated elevated chemokine and proinflammatory cytokine production upon infection, whereas the resistant strain, STS, showed no cytokine/chemokine activation. Transcriptomic analysis of brain tissue demonstrated that the genetic background of the mouse strains dictated their transcriptional response to infection. The resistant strain exhibited a more robust cell-mediated immune response, whereas both sensitive strains showed a less effective cell-mediated response but increased cytokine signaling and signs of demyelination, with loss of oligodendrocytes.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that variations in susceptibility linked to host genetic background correspond with distinct host responses, both in the periphery upon virus entry into the organism and in the brain, the target organ of the virus. These results provide insights into the influence of host genetics on the clinical trajectory of TBE.
Designing and validating an adaptation tool for endometriosis: an exploratory mixed method study protocol
Authors: Mollazadeh Sanaz , Marvi Nahid , Khadivzadeh Talat
Published: January 2025

Background

Endometriosis is a benign and chronic gynecological estrogen-dependent condition. Research findings have highlighted its impact on different aspects of women's lives. Enhancing quality of life and supporting the well-being of those affected is advised. Yet, none of the conducted studies have taken action toward these objectives. Therefore, the present study will be conducted with the aim of "Designing adaptation tool for endometriosis".

Methods/design

The method used in this study is an exploratory mixed-method study. The study will consist of two phases, starting with a qualitative phase followed by a quantitative phase. Upon approval Ethics Code from the endometriosis clinic at Imam Reza Hospital in Mashhad, Iran. The research will involve women of reproductive age diagnosed with endometriosis. In-depth and semi-structured interviews with open-ended questions will be conducted. The research aims to explore the experiences of women with endometriosis in adapting to the condition, utilizing qualitative content analysis with an approach based on the "ROY adaptation model." Sampling will be purposive until data saturation is achieved. Data analysis will follow the suggested steps using Elo Kingas' method and MAXQDA20 software. Tool design will involve an inductive approach (informed by qualitative findings) and a comparative method (based on literature review) to develop and refine tool items.

Discussion

This study is the first to employ a mixed-method approach in developing an adaptation tool for endometriosis. It uncovers underlying issues in the attitudes of patients, medical staff, and healthcare providers, offering insight into factors that can enhance the health and quality of life of affected women. The research findings can inform the creation of a relevant strategy for policymakers, planners, and healthcare professionals to better address the needs of women impacted by endometriosis.

Ethical code: IR.MUMS.NURSE.REC.1403.069.
Allogeneic DNT cell therapy synergizes with T cells to promote anti-leukemic activities while suppressing GvHD
Authors: Lee Jongbok , Kang Hyeonjeong , Chen Branson , Na Yoosu , Khatri Ismat , Soares Fraser , He Housheng Hansen , Law Arjun D. , Pan Tianzhong , Gerbitz Armin , Zhu Xiaoyu , Minden Mark D. , Zhang Li
Published: January 2025

Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT) is a second-line treatment with curative potential for leukemia patients. However, the prognosis of allo-HSCT patients with disease relapse or graft-versus-host disease (GvHD) is poor. CD4+ or CD8+ conventional T (Tconv) cells are critically involved in mediating anti-leukemic immune responses to prevent relapse and detrimental GvHD. Hence, treatment for one increases the risk of the other. Thus, therapeutic strategies that can address relapse and GvHD are considered the Holy Grail of allo-HSCT. CD3+CD4−CD8− double-negative T cells (DNTs) are unconventional mature T cells with potent anti-leukemia effects with “off-the-shelf” potential. A phase I clinical trial demonstrated the feasibility, safety, and potential efficacy of allogeneic DNT therapy for patients with relapsing acute myeloid leukemia (AML) post-allo-HSCT. Here, we studied the impact of DNTs on the anti-leukemic and GvHD-inducing activities of Tconv cells. DNTs synergized with Tconv cells to mediate superior anti-leukemic activity. Mechanistically, DNTs released soluble factors which activated and evoked potent anti-leukemic activities of Tconv cells. In contrast, DNTs suppressed GvHD-inducing activities of Tconv cells in a CD18-dependent manner by mediating cytotoxicity against proliferative Tconv cells. The seemingly opposite immunological activities of DNTs were dictated by the presence or absence of AML cells. Collectively, these results support the potential of DNTs as an adjuvant to allo-HSCT to address both disease relapse and GvHD.
Exploring ash fusion characteristics and thermal decomposition of biomass through thermogravimetric analysis
Authors: Hallad Sachin Channappa , Panwar N. L. , kumar V. Kavan
Published: January 2025

This study aims to investigate the ash fusion properties along with thermogravimetric examination of different biomass in an inert atmosphere at 20, and 30 °C/min. According to the accepted procedures, the physicochemical characterizations of biomass Sawdust, Soybean (Glycine max) as well as Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus) were completed. Thermodynamic and kinetic parameters were determined within the active pyrolysis zone using iso-conversional models like FWO and KAS techniques. During thermal deterioration, biomass loses mass through moisture loss, passive and active pyrolysis. The active pyrolysis zone was responsible for 50–55% of the mass loss between 180 and 395 °C. The activation energy values were 175.08and 174.21 kJ/mol based on KAS and FWO models, respectively, for sawdust; 153.15 and 151.47 kJ/mol for soybean and for eucalyptus 168.70 and 167.70 kJ/mol, respectively. The ash fusion behaviours of biomass showing 1506 °C deformation temperature for soybean followed by 1465 °C for eucalyptus and 1289 °C for sawdust and their variation processes under decreasing atmosphere were examined to reduce ash-related problems during gasification.
Assessing and Managing Primary Hyperparathyroidism and Fracture Risk in England: A Survey of Medical Professionals
Authors: Song Kaiyang , Vijjhalwar Rohit , Aye Mo , Comninos Alexander N , Schini Marian , Abbas Afroze , Gittoes Neil , Javaid Muhammad Kassim
Published: January 2025

Purpose

To describe diagnostic approaches and management strategies for patients with primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) and recent fracture in England.

Methods

We developed a survey based on a patient at high fracture risk and a new diagnosis of probable PHPT. The survey was circulated among 50 secondary care professionals identified by the Society for Endocrinology Calcium and Bone special interest group. Descriptive statistics, combinatorial, and thematic analyses were employed.

Results

In the patient with hyperparathyroidism and a recent fracture, 54% of respondents favoured a 24-hour urinary calcium: creatinine clearance ratio, with 85% opting to do so after correcting vitamin D levels. Thirty-two percent (16/50) preferred the spot urinary calcium:creatinine clearance ratio, as a random test (56%, n = 9/16). Ninety-six percent of the respondents agreed they would include a fracture risk assessment in their management plan. Eighty-five percent of the respondents selected dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry scans of the lumbar spine, total hip, and femoral neck as the most popular choice. Before initiating antiosteoporotic medications (AOMs), 94% of the respondents preferred correcting vitamin D levels with diverse regimens. IV zoledronate acid was the preferred AOM, and 58% (n = 29/50) supported cinacalcet usage if the patient was ineligible for parathyroid surgery, while 26% (n = 13/50) opposed cinacalcet use entirely. No significant correlation was found between status as an endocrinology consultant or working in a tertiary care hospital and these management preferences.

Main Conclusion

This study of National Health Service medical staff identified highly-varied clinical practices in managing PHPT in the setting of high fracture risk, highlighting the need for pragmatic guidelines and wider education.
The Effects of Age, Sex and Education on HVLT-R Performance Across the Lifespan: Data from the NEUROAGE Cohort
Authors: Nikolaou Flora , Michaelides Michalis , Prokopiou Juliana , Metaxas George , Constantinidou Fofi
Published: January 2025

The study investigates the impact of age, education, and sex on memory within a diverse cohort of participants spanning the adult lifespan, utilizing the G-HVLT-R. A total of 1,055 Greek Cypriot individuals, both males and females aged 18 to 80, were recruited from the NEUROAGE longitudinal project. Participants underwent a comprehensive battery of neuropsychological tests, including the G-HVLT-R for assessing total learning and delayed recall, alongside the Logical Memory test measuring delayed recall performance in story recall. Significant performance disparities emerged between Forms 1 and 2 and Forms 1 and 3 of the G-HVLT-R. Regression analyses revealed age as the predominant predictor, with the highest coefficients, followed by education and sex. Notably, the G-HVLT-R demonstrated robust concurrent validity, evidenced by high correlation coefficients with Logical Memory delayed recall tasks. The findings underscore age as the primary determinant of performance, while also emphasizing the influence of education and sex across the lifespan. Consequently, establishing norms that account for demographic characteristics is imperative for refining the precision of neuropsychological assessment, particularly among those with lower education levels and in older age groups. This information enhances accurate clinical assessment across diverse populations and aids in identifying individuals necessitating specific treatment interventions.
Role of Neuropsychological Factors in Post Head Injury Symptoms of Complicated Mild-moderate Traumatic Brain Injury patients
Authors: Chaurasiya Akanksha , Ranjan Jay , Pandey Nityanand , Shanker Asthana Hari
Published: January 2025

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a significant public health issue. The prevalence of post-head injury symptoms is well documented. However, only a few studies have examined its predictors, specifically the role of the neurocognitive and affective components in post-head injury symptoms. To examine the predictive role of neurocognitive and affective factors in post-head injury symptoms of complicated mild to moderate TBI patients. Thirty-nine patients with a GCS score of 9 to 15 and evidence of radiological intracranial abnormality were recruited for the study. All patients were assessed with neurocognitive measures such as the Stroop test for inhibitory control, the AIIMS memory scale for memory, and the Trail Making Test (TMT) for attention. The psychological distress of patients was assessed with the Hospital Anxiety Depression Scale (HADS), and post-head injury symptoms were assessed with the Rivermead Post Concussive Symptom Questionnaire (RPCSQ). Logistic regression analyses were conducted with predictors as neurocognitive measures and HADS scores and criterion variables as subjectively reported post-head injury symptoms on RPCSQ. Psychological distress and attention score significantly predict the presence of post-head injury cognitive symptoms in participants with complicated mild to moderate TBI (p<.05). In contrast, severity of injury significantly predicted the presence of post-head injury symptoms in physical/ somatic domain (p<.05). Furthermore, psychological distress and memory scores significantly predict presence of affective symptoms in participants with complicated mild-moderate TBI (p<.05). These findings suggest the need of addressing psychological distress along with neurocognitive impairment as a crucial component in neurorehabilitation for participants with complicated mild-moderate TBI.
A preliminary exploration of the development of integrated psychotherapy and pastoral counseling among the American Christian psychologists and pastoral psycho-therapists: A qualitative systematic literature review
Authors: Lee Chai Foong , Saili Jamayah , Yusuf Keezrawati Mujan
Published: January 2025

This systematic literature review paper aims to broadly trace the development of integrated psychotherapy and pastoral counseling from the advent of Freudian psychoanalytic theory in 1900 to the present day. Following the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews) guidelines, an electronic search of journals in congruence with the research objectives was conducted from Sage, Scopus and Google Scholar. This search resulted in 2408 related reviewed papers being considered (Scopus: 534; Sage: 719; Google Scholar: 1155). Through the process of eliminating duplicates, screening relevant titles, abstracts, full text and stringent inclusive and exclusive criteria, 31 reviewed papers were selected. A thematic synthesis of extracted data resulted in identifying three broad categories of: When (Time/Stage of the integrative effort); What (Definition/Defining Moment of the integrative stage); and How & Why (The Influences of the Time and the Pace setters of the Hour). This paper covers an era of integrative work spanning over almost one and a quarter centuries. As the integrative progress evolves with time, this paper also endeavors to identify the underlying reasons sustaining this century-long quest and research.
Στρατηγικές διαχείρισης της αυτό-παρουσίασης γυναικών-χρηστριών του Instagram: Μια μεταμοντέρνα φεμινιστική ανάλυση.
Authors: Ακριτίδου Αικατερίνα , Μέγαρης Σταύρος , Γεωργάκα Ευγενία
Published: January 2025

Το Instagram αποτελεί ένα σύγχρονο διαδεδομένο μέσο αυτό-παρουσίασης και αυτό-αποκάλυψης των γυναικών, γεγονός που προκαλεί τόσο θετικές όσο και αρνητικές συνέπειες στον αυτό-προσδιορισμό τους. Η παρούσα μελέτη διερευνά πώς κατασκευάζεται η ταυτότητα νεαρών χρηστριών του Instagram μέσα από την ανάλυση των στατηγικών διαχείρισης της αυτοπαρουσίασής τους. Για τους σκοπούς της έρευνας πραγματοποιήθηκαν 16 ημιδομημένες συνεντεύξεις ενεργών χρηστριών με την οπτική μέθοδο της φωτο-εκμαίευσης και αναλύθηκαν με τη μέθοδο της θεματικής ανάλυσης. Αντλώντας από ένα πλαίσιο μεταμοντέρνων φεμινιστικών θεωριών προέκυψαν τέσσερις κύριες θεματικές ενότητες: η γυναίκα μέσα στο Instagram, η ανάρτηση φωτογραφιών ως μέσο αυτό-παρουσίασης, ως μέσο αλληλεπίδρασης με άλλες/ους και ως μέσο κατασκευής της γυναικείας ταυτότητας. Τα δεδομένα αποκαλύπτουν πως οι συμμετέχουσες αποτιμούν την εμπειρία της ψηφιακής αυτό-παρουσίασής τους ως μία ευχάριστη και εθελούσια διαδικασία, αλλά ταυτόχρονα προβάλλουν μία εικόνα συνυφασμένη με τις κοινωνικές επιταγές για τη θηλυκότητα, ένα κράμα που συμβαδίζει με τις πολιτισμικές πρακτικές του μεταφεμινισμού.
Association between optimism and health orientation and differences across gender and exercise status. A cross-sectional study during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Orlandou Konstantina , Togas Constantinos , Alexias George
Published: January 2025

This cross-sectional study aimed to explore the association between optimism and health orientation in the Greek general population (n=400) and to identify differences across gender and exercise status during the COVID-19 pandemic (October-December 2020). The questionnaire included sociodemographic data, health information, the Health Orientation Scale (HOS), and the Life Orientation Test-Revised (LOT-R). Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS, v. 28. The HOS revealed the highest mean score in Internal Health Control and the lowest in Health Image Concern.  Significant correlations were observed between LOT-R and Health Esteem-Confidence (r=.294, p<.001), Health Expectations (r=.257, p<.001), Motivation to Avoid Unhealthiness (r=.202, p<.001), Health Status (r=.202, p<.001), Motivation for Healthiness (r=.138, p<.001), Private Health Consciousness (r=.114, p<.005), and Health Anxiety (r=-.143, p<.001). Men scored higher than women in Health Esteem-Confidence, Health Expectations, and Health Status while scoring lower in Health Anxiety. Individuals who engaged in frequent exercise had significantly higher scores than those who didn't in Private Health Consciousness, Health Image Concern, Health Esteem-Confidence, Motivation to Avoid Unhealthiness, Motivation for Healthiness, Health Expectations, and Health Status. Age, Health Esteem-Confidence, Motivation to Avoid Unhealthiness, Motivation for Healthiness, and Health Expectations positively predicted score on LOT-R. In conclusion, health orientation can play a pivotal role in enhancing optimism and addressing current and future health challenges, such as COVID-19. Health psychologists and practitioners can integrate these findings into their everyday clinical practice or use them to plan effective interventions. Additional research is recommended to further validate the above findings, especially after the end of the pandemic.
Preface to the health-psychology article collection
Authors: Anagnostopoulos Fotios
Published: January 2025

Health psychology is a relatively new subfield of psychology that emphasizes the biopsychosocial model, where physical well-being and disease reflect a complex set of interrelated processes, involving psychological, social, and biological factors. Health psychologists use psychological science to promote health, prevent illness, and improve health care systems. Despite significant advancements in research and practice, the field faces numerous challenges, such as the application of technology and telehealth to monitoring health behaviors, the integration of mental health care with physical health services, the reduction in health disparities, the shift towards primary and secondary prevention, the adoption of an interdisciplinary collaboration approach, and the development and implementation of policy and advocacy strategies. In this special issue, six health psychology-related papers are included that address the role of coping and stress mindset in the intensity of stress responses, the importance of emotional states and expert influence in vaccination decisions against human papillomavirus, the posttraumatic growth of community residents and healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic, the impact of COVID-19 fear on healthcare professionals’ quality of life, the relationship between COVID-related stress and COVID-related immunity and self-regulation factors, as well as the associations between optimism and health orientation during the COVID-19 pandemic. By examining psychosocial factors related to health problems and health-related issues, the authors have contributed to advancing our understanding of how such factors can help individuals better manage and cope with health challenges. The findings from these studies may help inform targeted interventions and strategies to improve overall well-being and address the psychological aspects of health and illness, particularly in the context of global health problems.
Correlation between Erectile Function Assessment through International Index of Erectile Function Score and Nocturnal Penile Tumescence and Rigidity Measurements in Men with Erectile Dysfunction
Authors: Christanto Roberto Bagaskara Indy , Wijaya Cindy , Birowo Ponco , Atmoko Widi , Situmorang Gerhard Reinaldi , Agarwal Ashok , Shah Rupin
Published: January 2025

Introduction Erectile dysfunction (ED) affects approximately 40% of men; however, the true prevalence remains uncertain owing to various factors. Diagnosing ED is challenging, and tools like the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) and its shorter version, the IIEF-5, are commonly used to assess its severity. Although nocturnal penile tumescence and rigidity (NPTR) monitoring, as an objective test, can help diagnose ED, it is complex and not economical. Therefore, this study aimed to compare NPTR with the IIEF to assess the IIEF’s potential as a cost-effective diagnostic tool for ED. Methods A retrospective cohort study was performed on 138 men with ED between August 2017 and March 2023 who had undergone NPTR assessment in Jakarta, Indonesia. ED was assessed using detailed evaluations and IIEF-5 questionnaires. NPTR data was collected using a Rigiscan® device. Serum testosterone, total cholesterol, HbA1c, and vitamin D-25(OH) from blood samples were also evaluated. Bivariate analysis was used to explore the correlations between IIEF-5 scores, NPTR measurements, and blood parameters. Results In total, 139 men with ED (median age: 42 years) were included. The median IIEF-5 score was 11, and comorbidities included dyslipidemia (20%) and diabetes (12%). There are significant correlations between IIEF scores and NPTR variables (number of erections recorded, base tumescence increment, average base tumescence, and duration of base erection with ˃ 60% rigidity). Significant correlations were also found between HbA1c and various NPTR variables. Conclusion This study underscores the value of subjective questionnaires such as the IIEF-5 in diagnosing ED, especially in the absence of advanced tests like the NPTR assessment. We found correlations between IIEF scores and nocturnal erection frequency, as well as specific erection characteristics. Our findings highlight the importance of a personalized approach to ED diagnosis. Although IIEF aids in cost-effective assessments, it should not replace objective testing.
The Relationship between Self-Directed Informal Learning Videos and Financial Literacy
Authors:   , Harris Tyonia LaFawn Wright
Published: January 2025

The purpose of this convergent mixed method study was to determine whether or not there is a difference in the perceived and actual financial literacy scores of millennials. Exploring the following research questions and hypotheses helped to expand knowledge around actual financial literacy and several other characteristics, including perceived financial literacy, especially among millennials (individuals born between 1981 and 1996): RQ1: What is the difference between millennials' actual and perceived financial literacy scores? RQ2: To what extent do socioeconomic status, gender, and having a bank account predict millennials' financial literacy scores? H0: There is no relationship between millennials' socioeconomic status, gender, banking status and their financial literacy scores. RQ3: What video delivery methods (if any) are millennials using to gain financial literacy knowledge in informal learning environments? Millennial participants (N = 207) were asked to complete a survey. Participants' perceived financial literacy scores were higher than their actual financial literacy scores. While males had higher perceived financial literacy ratings, females accounted for the majority of participants who scored four or above on a 5-point scale for actual financial literacy. Although, the null hypothesis was incorrect, the independent variables used in the ANOVA tables accounted for less than 15% of financial literacy scores. One hundred twenty-one millennials (58.5%) reported viewing a financial video versus 86 (41.5%) who reported not viewing financial videos. Eighty-one percent of participants reported watching financial videos at their homes. To create a lasting impact that can progress financial literacy and informal learning, more knowledge is needed.
High Strain Rate Deformation Behavior of Single-Phase and Multi-Phase High Entropy Alloys
Authors:   , Muskeri Saideep
Published: January 2025

Fundamental understanding of high strain rate deformation behavior of materials is critical in designing new alloys for wide-ranging applications including military, automobile, spacecraft, and industrial applications. High entropy alloys, consisting of multiple elements in (near) equimolar proportions, represent a new paradigm in structural alloy design providing ample opportunity for achieving excellent performance in high strain rate applications by proper selection of constituent elements and/or thermomechanical processing. This dissertation is focused on fundamental understanding of high strain-rate deformation behavior of several high entropy alloy systems with widely varying microstructures. Ballistic impact testing of face centered cubic Al0.1CoCrFeNi high entropy alloy showed failure by ductile hole growth. The deformed microstructure showed extensive micro-banding and micro-twinning at low velocities while adiabatic shear bands and dynamic recrystallization were seen at higher velocities. The Al0.7CoCrFeNi and AlCoCrFeNi2.1 eutectic high entropy alloys, with BCC and FCC phases in lamellar morphology, showed failure by discing. A network of cracks coupled with small and inhomogeneous plastic deformation led to the brittle mode of failure in these eutectic alloys. Phase-specific mechanical behavior using small-scale techniques revealed higher strength and strain rate sensitivity for the B2 phase compared to the L12 phase. The interphase boundary demonstrated good stability without any cracks at high compressive strain rates. The Al0.3CoCrFeNi high entropy alloy with bimodal microstructure demonstrated an excellent combination of strength and ductility. Ballistic impact testing of Al0.3CoCrFeNi alloy showed failure by ductile hole growth and demonstrated superior performance compared to all the other high entropy alloy systems studied. The failure mechanism was dominated by micro-banding, micro-twining, and adiabatic shear localization. Comparison of all the high entropy alloy systems with currently used state-of-the-art rolled homogenous armor (RHA) steel showed a strong dependence of failure modes on microstructural features.
Tribal Engagement and Infrastructure Development: Landscapes and Cultural Heritage in the United States
Authors:   , Mattisson Maxwell Alexander
Published: January 2025

This thesis focuses on tribal engagement and tribal consultation in the United States. In the thesis, I discuss my experience working on an interdisciplinary research team completing a formal ethnographic study which was submitted to a federal agency. Using insights gained from this experience and additional experience working with American Indian tribes, I discuss historic, contemporary, and potential future strategies for involving and engaging American Indian tribes in land and resource stewardship decisions in the United States.
Using Student Response Systems to Increase Academic Engagement for Secondary Students with Specific Learning Disability in General Education Settings
Authors:   , Triplett Patrick C
Published: January 2025

Secondary students with specific learning disabilities often have challenges with academic engagement and performance within the general education setting. Opportunity to respond strategies, such as student response systems, have shown promise in supporting academic engagement for students without disabilities. However, there are few studies examining the relationship between student response systems and academic engagement for older students with specific learning disabilities. The purpose of this study was to pilot the use of Google classroom as a student response system on academic participation and disruptive behavior for high school students with specific learning disability. While the study began as a multiple baseline across participants single-subject research design, the design was changed due to school closures as a result of COVID-19. A high-school student with specific learning disability participated in a study using an AB non-experimental design. The student response system resulted in an abrupt change in academic participation for the participant. The student and teacher perceived the intervention to be effective and appropriate for increasing participation and decreasing disruptive behavior. This study contributes to a limited body of research on student response systems for secondary students with specific learning disabilities.
No Place Like Home: Exploring the Adjustment Experiences of Black Graduates of Historically Black Colleges and Universities Who Attend Graduate School at a Predominately White Institution
Authors:   , Everette Brooke J.
Published: January 2025

The purpose of this phenomenological study is to explore the experiences of Black graduates of historically Black colleges and universities who attend graduate school at predominately White institutions as they adjust academically and socially at these institutions. In-depth interviews provide knowledge as to what this special population of students' experience. Recommendations for faculty and administrators to assist with the recruitment and retention of these graduate students is also provided.
A Comprehensive Study of Three Compositions for Percussion by Composer Jonathan Leshnoff, "Run" (2003), "…without a chance" (2003), and "Concerto for Two Percussionists and Orchestra" (2011), including a Structural and Aesthetic Analysis
Authors:   , Garcia Jacob Adam
Published: January 2025

Jonathan Leshnoff is one today's foremost contemporary American composers. His percussion compositions are significant compositions to the percussion solo, chamber, and concerto repertoire. This study is a tonal analysis on his marimba solo, Run (2003), with comparative analyses on his percussion chamber work, …without a chance (2002), and Concerto for Two Percussionists and Orchestra (2011).
Engineering the Uniform Lying Helical Structure in Chiral Nematic Liquid Crystal Phase: From Morphology Transition to Dimension Control
Authors:   , Jia Zhixuan
Published: January 2025

Chiral nematic liquid crystals or cholesteric liquid crystals (CLC) can be obtained by adding a chiral dopant into a nematic liquid crystal. Liquid crystal molecules spontaneously rotate along a long axis to form helical structures in CLC system. Both pitch size and orientation of the helical structure is determined by the boundary conditions and can be further tuned by external stimuli. Particularly, the uniform lying helical structure of CLC has attracted intensive attention due to its beam steering and diffraction abilities. Up to now, studies have worked on controlling the in-plane orientation of lying helix through surface rubbing and external stimuli. However, it remains challenging to achieve steady and uniform lying helical structure due to its higher energy, comparing with other helical configurations. Here, by varying the surface anchoring, uniform lying helical structure with long-range order is achieved as thermodynamically stable state without external support. Poly (6-(4-methoxy-azobenzene-4'-oxy) hexyl methacrylate) (PMMAZO), a liquid crystalline polymer, is deposited onto the silicon substrate to fine-tune the surface anchoring. By changing the grafting density of PMMAZO, both pitch size and orientation of lying helical structure are precisely controlled. As the grafting density increases, the enhanced titled deformation of helical structure suppresses the pitch size of CLC at the same cell thickness; as the cell thickness increases, the morphology transition from long-range order stripe to small fingerprint domain is facilitated.
A Survey of LGBT Educational Policy and Interventions/Practices of Educators in Texas
Authors:   , De Lima Rocha Gabriela L
Published: January 2025

This research project sought to holistically understand how educators in Texas understand educational policies that impact LGBT students, their practices, and interventions in the classroom. The project looks at two policies: anti-bullying and sexual education policies, and provides evidence that they are intrinsically linked through the discourse surrounding LGBT issues in Texas schools.
"The Sandbox" and Other Short Stories
Authors:   , Ramirez Jose Martin
Published: January 2025

The Sandbox and Other Short Stories is a part of an anthology reflecting on conflicting military cultures, tribal identities, and transition struggles within an enduring war and postmodernism society.
Examining the Role of Gendered Racial Identity in the Relationship Between Gendered Racism and Psychological Distress in Black Women
Authors:   , Doty Dominique C.
Published: January 2025

Racism, sexism, and other forms of oppression are consequential to Black women's mental health. The current research examines the psychological impact of gendered racism, which is oppression on the basis of both gender and race, and the extent to which gendered racial identity may buffer the association between gendered racism and psychological distress (i.e., anxiety and depressive symptoms) among U.S. Black women. The study includes a sample of 150 Black women (at least 18 years of age or older, mean age = 39.11) recruited using Qualtrics panel service. Women were administered measures of gendered racism, gendered racial identity, and mental health (i.e., anxiety and depression). Data was analyzed through a series of bivariate correlations and moderation analyses using PROCESS macro. Results revealed that gendered racial identity did not moderate the association between gendered racism and mental health. This study advances our understanding of the oppression Black women contend with on the basis of their race and gender and offers insight about the factors that may mitigate the psychological impact of this phenomenon on Black women.
The Scope and Value of Healthcare Data Science Applications
Authors:   , Huerta Jose Oscar
Published: January 2025

Health disparities are a recognized public health concern and the need to address these disparities remains worthy of bringing new methods that assist in closing the gap. This research examined the effectiveness of data science to highlight health disparities, and to convey the value of data science applications in related health care applications. The goal of this research was accomplished by undertaking a multi-phased and multi-method approach, best represented in three individual essays. In essay one, a systematic literature review assessed the state in current academic literature of data science applications used to explore health disparities and to determine its applicability. The systematic review was guided by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Essay two assessed the capacity of data science software to address the effectiveness of these data science technologies in examining health disparities data. This was conducted using KDnuggets data pertaining to analytics, data science, and machine-learning software. The research in this essay demonstrated the potential utility of leading software to perform the kinds of data science operations that can achieve improved care in healthcare networks by addressing health disparities. Essay three provided an appropriate case study to showcase the value data science brings to the healthcare space. This study used a geographic information system to create and analyze choropleth maps to determine the distribution of prostate cancer in Texas. SPSS software was used to assess the social determinants of health that may explain prostate cancer mortality.
Participatory Research with Adolescent Emergent Bilinguals: Creating a Third Space to Support Students' Language and Literacy Learning
Authors:   , Garcia Kimberly
Published: January 2025

Teachers face pressures to meet the needs of an ever-changing diverse population of learners while simultaneously attempting to assist students in meeting state standards. There is a body of research that supports emergent bilinguals' growth in reading and writing. However, those practices do not necessarily reflect classroom instruction nor the needs of the students. The purpose of this study was to examine adolescent emergent bilinguals' perceptions about their learning from research-based literacy practices implemented in a classroom designed as a third space. Data were collected using participatory research and photo-elicitation and were analyzed using inductive analysis. The emergent bilinguals provided their insights about class assignments. Findings revealed that research-based literacy practices support emergent bilinguals' perceptions of learning when they are made accessible to them in distinctive yet extensive ways. For students to uncover which literacy activities they value, teachers need to present them with various opportunities to explore their own learning and encourage them to take ownership of their learning. Educators must consider the unique and individual needs of emergent bilinguals when designing the classroom environment and the lessons based on the standards. Recommendations for practitioners, professional development coordinators, and researchers are presented.
Optical Emission Spectroscopy Monitoring Method for Additively Manufactured Iron-Nickel and Other Complex Alloy Samples
Authors:   , Flannery David A.
Published: January 2025

The method of optical emission spectroscopy has been used with Fe-Ni and other complex alloys to investigate in-situ compositional control for additive manufacturing. Although additive manufacturing of metallic alloys is an emerging technology, compositional control will be a challenge that needs to be addressed for a multitude of industries going forward for next-gen applications. This current scope of work includes analysis of ionized species generated from laser and metal powder interaction that is inherent to the laser engineered net shaping (LENS) process of additive manufacturing. By quantifying the amount of a given element's presence in the electromagnetic (EM) spectrum, this amount can be compared to the actual amount present in the sample via post-processing and elemental dispersive x-ray (EDX) data analysis. For this work a commercially available linear silicon CCD camera captured metallic ion peaks found within the ultraviolet (UV) region to avoid background contamination from blackbody radiation. Although the additive manufacturing environment can prove difficult to measure in-situ due to time dependent phenomena, extreme temperatures, and defect generation, OEM was able to capture multiple data points over a time series that showed a positive correlation between an element's peak intensity and the amount of that element found in the final deposit.
Some Names for Empty Space
Authors:   , Koch Andrew
Published: January 2025

Some Names for Empty Space is a collection of poems that considers how poetry and language operate to define human experience, reconciling the 'empty spaces' between the self and the abstracted variables of all things. The poems here often find their impetus in fatherhood and a parent's efforts to explain the world to a child.
Piano Concerto No. 1 In E Minor, by Emil Sauer: A Stylistic and Historical Argument for Its Relevance to the Piano Literature
Authors:   , Ulasiuk Dzmitry
Published: January 2025

In 1895, Emil Georg Conrad Sauer (1862-1942), a world-renowned German pianist and former student of Franz Liszt wrote his first piano concerto, which was published five years later in 1900. Sauer performed it extensively to enthusiastic crowds in Europe and the United States while on tour during the next several years. Then it vanished from the concert repertoire. It is no longer performed and has only been commercially recorded once. The purpose of this dissertation is to establish why it might have disappeared, and why there is value in bringing it back to the standard piano repertoire.
Relational and Social-Cognitive Predictors of PTSD in U.S. Combat Veterans: A Path Analysis
Authors:   , Smith Julia E.
Published: January 2025

The purpose of the present study was to explore a theoretically based social-cognitive model of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) by investigating attachment-related and social-cognitive predictors of PTSD in a sample of 125 post-9/11 U.S. combat veterans. Subjects completed an online survey assessing PTSD symptomology, attachment-related internal working models, perceived social support, and mentalizing capacity. Path analysis provided empirical support for a respecified version of the model. More negative internal working model of self and poorer mentalizing capacity predicted higher PTSD symptom levels. Contrary to previous findings, greater perceived social support predicted higher, not lower, PTSD symptom levels. Mentalizing capacity mediated the relationship between internal working model of self and PTSD symptoms in a complementary manner, whereas perceived social support as a mediator was dampening. The relationship between internal working model of others and PTSD symptom levels was fully mediated by perceived social support, which buffered the effect of negative working model of others on PTSD symptom levels. These findings underscore the importance of social-cognitive processing, rooted in early attachment experiences, in the development and symptomology of PTSD in trauma-exposed veterans. In preparing clients for trauma work, clinicians may consider employing modalities that promote earned secure attachment and highlight mentalization in the therapeutic change process.
Three Essays on Social Media Use and Information Sharing Behavior
Authors:   , Bhagat Sarbottam
Published: January 2025

Social media platforms create rich social structures, expand users' boundaries of social networks and revolutionize traditional forms of communications, social interactions and social relationships. These platforms not only facilitate the creation and sharing of news and information, but they also drive various kinds of businesses models, processes and operations, knowledge sharing, marketing strategies for brand management and socio-political discourses essential for healthy and democratic functions. As such, social media has greater implications on organizations and society brought about by individuals' social media usage patterns, and therefore, calls for further investigations. The main objective of this dissertation is to explore and offer insights into such social media usage and information sharing behaviors via data driven examination of various theories. This dissertation involves three studies that focus on factors that explain individuals' three different social media usage behaviors. Essay 1 investigates individuals' perceived importance of online affiliation, self-esteem, self-regulation and risk-benefit structure as antecedents of users' geo-tagging behavior on social media. Essay 2 examines the role of online news quality, source credibility, individuals' perception towards online civic engagement, attitude towards news sharing and social influences to understand users' news sharing behavior on social media platforms. Essay 3 seeks to examine the individuals' information verification behavior on social media through the lens of individuals' fake news awareness, perceived cost of information verification, trust in social media and truth-seeking.
Exploring Critical Thinking Support for K-12 Education in the Internet Age
Authors:   , Ma Shanshan
Published: January 2025

This dissertation uses a three-manuscript style, and the ultimate purpose was to support critical thinking teaching in K-12 education from a systematic view concerning the lack of critical thinking in the young generation. The three manuscripts included in this dissertation were entirely or partly adapted based on three published or submitted research papers. The first research paper is a literature review article with an introduction to a development framework of nine principles, which provided a new view to developing critical thinking in younger children based on conceptual understanding of critical thinking. The second research paper is a study I coauthored with J. Michael Spector, which calls for more attention to the development of human intelligence given the rapid development of artificial intelligence and proposed that developing inquiry and critical thinking is a key to develop human intelligence. The third research paper reports an investigation over middle school educators' conceptualization of critical thinking and its alignment with the established theory and research. The major purpose was to connect the established theory and research with educational practices regarding what critical thinking constitutes. The significance of this study is to reveal the issues behind the abstract understanding of critical thinking and address the insufficient critical thinking teaching phenomenon from the perspective of educational practices.
Peace, Love, Unity, Respect, and Gender: Analyzing Gender at Raves
Authors:   , Rivera Zoriliz
Published: January 2025

Doing, undoing, and redoing gender debates have established the omnirelevance and performativity of gender. Yet, little is known about the ways that individuals "do" gender in spaces that provide the opportunity for norms to be disrupted, such as subcultures. This study offers an empirical investigation into the performance of gender within the subculture known as EDM (electronic dance music) culture. Using 20 in-depth interviews that were conducted virtually, I analyze the way ravers experience and give meaning to gender within the EDM culture. I find that individuals within the EDM culture can participate in the doing, undoing, and redoing of gender and do so through the embodiment of their subcultural beliefs and ideology, known as PLUR (peace, love, unity, and respect). I argue that the embodiment of PLUR is gendered, and describe the body-reflexive practices that are associated with PLUR.