bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
May the Pathogenic Microbes Not Be with You: Core Microbiome Profiling in Hospital Airspace
Authors: Hussin Husna Mat , Tay Darren Dean , Zainulabid Ummu Afeera , Maghpor Mohd Norhafsam , Ahmad Hajar Fauzan
Published: March 2024

The hospital indoor air microbiome, a diverse range of microorganisms, gains prominence amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Elevated awareness underscores implications for patient and staff well-being. Concerns about risks to indoor air quality persist due to prolonged indoor exposure, necessitating further research on specific threats within the hospital environment. In this study, an independent culture-based approach was used to analyze the baseline core microbiome present in hospital environments, utilizing amplicon sequencing on the next-generation sequencing technology to target the V3 region of the 16S rRNA gene. Firmicutes, Proteobacteria, and Actinobacteria were the main bacterial phyla that were most isolated from the wards and clinics with different orders of abundance; Firmicutes being associated more in clinics and Actinobacteriota in wards. The bacteria Niallia taxi, Methyloversatilis universalis, unclassified Rummeliibacillus, unclassified Clostridium, and unclassified Sphingomonadaceae dominated the clinic area while ward areas reported Pseudonocardia bannensis, Rubrobacter A aplysinae, unclassified Brachybacterium, unclassified Bradyrhizobium, and unclassified Mycobacterium to be the top five features. While the alpha-diversity index showed no significant differences, the beta-diversity analysis showed a significant differences between clinic and ward areas (p < 0.05). Certain bacterial species associated with opportunistic pathogens as well as normal skin flora such as Methylobacterium spp., Cutibacterium spp., unclassified Sphingomonadaceae, and Anoxybacillus B spp., were also identified across all samples. The methods described in this research aim to establish a rapid and sensitive screening process that could be valuable for disease surveillance within the healthcare setting, shedding light on the potential impacts of the hospital microbiome on human illness.
Trends and predictors of changes in renal function after radical nephrecto my for renal tumors
Authors: Yan Yongchao , Wang Xinning , Liu Yunbo , Li Bin , Xu Shang , Du Haotian , Li Yanjiang
Published: March 2024

Background: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a common postoperative complication in patients who undergo radical nephrectomy for renal tumours. However, the factors influencing long-term renal function require further investigation.
Objective: This study aimed to investigate the trends in renal function changes and risk factors for renal function deterioration in patients with renal tumours after radical nephrectomy.
Results: We analysed the data from 329 patients with renal tumours undergoing radical nephrectomies between January 2013 and December 2018. We monitored the changes in the patient’s renal function before and after surgery for 3 years. The progression of renal function was determined by the progression and degradation of CKD stages. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to analyse the causes of renal function progression. In this study, 43.7% of patients had postoperative acute kidney injury (AKI) and 48.3% had upgraded CKD stages. Further research revealed that the patient’s renal function levelled off 3 months following surgery. Additionally, renal function changes during these 3 months have a substantial impact on the progression of long-term renal function in patients.
Conclusion: AKI may be an indicator of short-term postoperative changes in renal function. Renal function tests should be performed in patients with AKI after radical nephrectomy to monitor the progression of functional impairment, particularly within the first 3 months after radical nephrectomy.
Refugee Children and Peer- Relationships; Evaluations of Teachers
Authors: YILMAZ AYŞE DURAN
Published: March 2024

Background
Refugee children need to make new friends in the countries where they live, adapt, and get to know each other with other children. This study aims to examine the peer relationships of refugee children in the preschool period. For this purpose, the peer relationships of 160 refugee children were analyzed.
Method
The method used in this study is mixed, and the design of the study is an explanatory sequential mixed design. The research participants were 160 refugee children who took preschool education in Gaziantep in the 2023–2024 academic year. The qualitative data needed to examine refugee children's classroom peer relationships in more detail were provided by five preschool teachers.
Results
According to the results obtained from the study, the gender of the children was found to be an effective factor in peer relations, aggression, and social skills. The Turkish-speaking level of refugee children positively affected their peer relations, social skills, and total scores, it did not have a significant effect on the aggression dimension. There was no significant correlation found between the class sizes of the children and their peer relations, aggression, social skills, and total scores. As a result of the interviews with the teachers, they stated that the social behavior of refugee children in the classroom varies according to their knowledge of Turkish, adaptation to Turkish culture, financial status, and gender of the child.
A mixed method impact assessment of the use of aerial logistics to improve maternal health and emergencies outcomes in the Ashanti Region of Ghana
Authors: Kremer Pedro , Haruna Florence , Briegleb Christina , Amoah Maame Esi , Oteng Kenneth Fosu , Boadi Stephanie , Dwomoh Samuel , Bentil Adwoa , Tinkorang Emmanuel
Published: March 2024

Maternal mortality, a critical global public health issue, is notably higher in low-to-middle-income countries (LMICs). In Ghana, access to healthcare, especially maternal and emergency services, is hindered by infrastructural deficiencies such as poor road networks and unreliable electricity, making the delivery of medical supplies and services difficult. The study used a mixed-method approach to assess the impact of aerial logistics on various maternal health outcomes in the Ashanti Region, focusing on the intervention by Zipline Mpanya distribution center. The study was conducted in the Ashanti Region of Ghana, where clinical outcome data were sourced from the health directorate. Pre-exposure years were 2017–2020, and post-exposure years were 2021–2022. Statistical analysis involved univariate explorations, T-tests, ANOVAs, and Zero-Inflated Poisson regressions, adjusting for factors like poverty. The qualitative study was to describe and analyze changes in providers’ and patients’ satisfaction, perceived quality across maternal health and health emergencies, and experiences using or being treated with the aerial logistics. The Zero-Inflated Poisson regression analysis indicated significant pre-post increases in antenatal visits and deliveries by 19.9% and 25% respectively, and a notable 3.4-fold increase in referrals, while emergency visits decreased by 4.4%. Maternal deaths reduced significantly by 56.4%, with no substantial changes observed in rates of hysterectomies and neonatal deaths. Patients and healthcare providers perceived improvement in access to maternal and emergency medications. In conclusion, this study underscores the groundbreaking role of medical drones in enhancing public health strategies, especially in LMICs, by significantly improving maternal health outcomes.
Validation of the Arabic version of the Mukbang Addiction Scale
Authors: Saeed Wizra , Merdad Nisma , Amin Rizwana , Rashid Tabassum , Hallit Souheil , Fekih-Romdhane Feten
Published: March 2024

Introduction:
The present study evaluated the psychometric properties of the Arabic translation of the Mukbang Addiction Scale (MAS) among Arabic-speaking adults from the general population. Specifically, it aimed to assess the factorial structure through a confirmatory factor analysis, determine the composite reliability through Cronbach alpha and McDonald's omega scores, assess gender invariance, and evaluate the convergent validity by examining its correlation to eating addiction and psychological distress.
Methods
A total of 370 individuals with a mean age of 21.94 ± 2.29 years participated in this study, which was conducted using an online platform. The participants were surveyed on demographic information, mukbang addiction, food addiction, and psychological distress. Translation was conducted using the forward and backward technique.
Results
The findings demonstrated excellent internal consistency of the Arabic MAS (McDonald's omega coefficient = .93). Confirmatory factor analyses validated the one-factor structure of the scale, while establishing measurement invariance across sex at the configural, metric, and scalar levels. No sex differences were observed in the Mukbang addiction levels. Lastly, the MAS scores were significantly and positively correlated with food addiction and psychological distress, supporting their convergent validity.
Conclusion
The current research provides evidence supporting the reliability and validity of the Arabic version of the MAS as a self-report method for assessing addictive Mukbang watching. While further validations are needed to corroborate the present findings, this measure can be effectively utilized across different fields, including schools, mental health centers, and researchers aiming to understand this global phenomenon.
Integration of Hybrid Renewable Energy Systems for Hydrogen Refueling Stations
Authors: Mohammed Awsan , Alabbas Abbas , Ghaithan Ahmed M. , Darghouth Mohamed Noomane , Attia Ahmed M.
Published: March 2024

This study investigates hydrogen production using renewable energy, with an emphasis on system reliability and hydrogen storage methods for periods of insufficient electric power. The study was conducted at a refueling station in Dumat Al-Jandal, Saudi Arabia. It utilized HOMER software to simulate different arrangements incorporating solar (PV) arrays, wind turbines (WT), converters, batteries, electrolyzers, and hydrogen tanks. The purpose is to optimize the system to fulfill a daily hydrogen need of 25 kg. The results indicate that the most efficient setup consists of a 208 kW photovoltaic (PV) array, 7 wind turbine (WT) units, a 71 kW converter, a 100 kW electrolyzer, a 100 kg hydrogen storage tank, and a 342-battery array. The arrangement attains a levelized energy cost of $0.452 per kilowatt-hour, a hydrogen production cost of $6.22 per kilogram, and a net present cost of $645,000, allowing a significant reduction of CO2 emissions by preventing the release of 372 metric tons of CO2 per year. The findings provide stakeholders with crucial information on optimizing hybrid renewable energy for hydrogen production at refueling stations. The study underscores the significant potential for integrating such systems into refueling infrastructures as a pathway toward environmentally sustainable and economically viable hydrogen production.
Negative association between Low-dose blood lead levels and bone mineral density in U.S. children: a cross-sectional study from NHANES 2005–2010
Authors: 吴 徐金 , Jin XIxin , Xu Wei , She Chang , LI Liubin , Mao Yongtao
Published: March 2024

Background
Relationship between lead exposure and children's bone health remains controversial. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between blood lead levels (BLL) and femur bone mineral density (BMD). All data came from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) database, 2005–2010.
Methods
A total of 3331 subjects aged 8–18 years were enrolled in this study. Multivariate linear regression models were used to explore the relationship between BLL and femur BMD. And further stratified analyses by gender and ethnicity. Additionally smooth curve fitting was used to explore the saturation threshold effect between the two.
Result
There was a significant negative correlation between BLL and BMD in different parts of the femur in children. For every 1ug/dl increase in BLL, total femur BMD, femoral neck BMD, femoral trochanter BMD, and femoral intertrochanteric BMD decreased by 0.008 g/cm2, 0.007 g/cm2, 0.007 g/cm2, and 0.008 g/cm2, and the saturation threshold for BLL were 1.73ug/dl; 1.61ug/dl, 1.80 ug/dl, and 1.66ug/dl.
Conclusion
This study shows that low-dose blood lead levels, even those within the reference range, can have a significant negative impact on children's bone health.
Association between maternal antidepressant use during pregnancy and the risk of autism spectrum disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in offspring
Authors: Lee Min-Jing , Chen Yi-Lung , Wu Shu-I , Huang Chien-Wei , Dewey Michael E , Chen Vincent Chin-Hung
Published: March 2024

Prenatal antidepressant exposure has been reported to be associated with adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes, yet studies considering confounding factors in Asian populations are lacking. This study utilized a nationwide data base in Taiwan, enrolling all liveborn children registered in the National Health Insurance system between 2004 and 2016. Subjects were divided into two groups: antidepressant-exposed (n=55,707)) and antidepressant-unexposed group (n=2,245,689). The effect of antidepressant exposure during different trimesters on autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) was examined. Sibling controls and parallel comparisons by paternal exposure status were treated as negative controls. Additional sensitivity analyses were conducted to examine the effects of antidepressant exposure before and after pregnancy. Prenatal antidepressant exposure was associated with increased risks of ASD and ADHD in population-wide and adjusted analysis. However when comparing antidepressant-exposed children with their unexposed siblings, no differences were found for ASD (Hazard ratio [HR]: 1.04, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.76-1.42 in first trimester; HR: 0.96, 95% CI: 0.62-1.50 in second trimester; HR: 0.69, 95% CI: 0.32-1.48 in third trimester) and ADHD (HR: 0.98, 95%CI: 0.84-1.15 in first trimester; HR: 0.91, 95% CI: 0.73-1.14 in second trimester; HR: 0.79, 95% CI: 0.54-1.16 in third trimester) . Increased risks for ASD and ADHD were also noted in paternal control, before and after pregnancy analyses. These results imply that the association between prenatal antidepressant exposure and ASD and ADHD is not contributed to from an intrauterine medication effect but more likely to be accounted for by maternal depression, genetic, and potential environmental factors.
LI-RADS for Diagnosing Hepatocellular Carcinoma by Contrast-enhanced US with SonoVue and Sonazoid—A Single Center Prospective Study
Authors: Zhai Hong-yan , Yang Xiao-huan , Lin Chen , Liu Quan-yan , Zhou Gui-ming , Shan Chang-liang , Zhu Xin-yuan
Published: March 2024

Purpose: To compare the diagnostic performance of two algorithms for HCC diagnosis: SonoVue-CEUS based on CEUS LI-RADS version 2017 and a modified algorithm incorporating Kupffer-phase findings for Sonazoid-CEUS.
Materials and Methods: This single center prospective study enrolled high-risk patients for HCC. Each participant underwent same-day SonoVue-CEUS and Sonazoid-CEUS. Each liver observation was assigned two LI-RADS categories according to each algorithm: SonoVue-CEUS LI-RADS SHF and modified Sonazoid-CEUS LI-RADS. For the latter method, observations at least 10 mm with nonrim arterial phase hyperenhancement were upgraded LR-4 to LR-5 if there was no washout with a Kupffer defect and were reassigned LR-M to LR-5 if there was early washout with mild Kupffer defect. The reference standard was pathologic confirmation.
Results: Overall, 66 patients (mean age, 61.2 years ± 10.9; 54 male patients, 12 female patients) with 66 observations (mean size, 31mm ± 16) were eventually enrolled. Compared with the SonoVue-CEUS LI-RADS, the results of Sonazoid-CEUS LI-RADS showed significant changes in sensitivity (88% vs. 63%, P＜0.001), accuracy (85% vs. 68%, P＜0.001). There was no significant difference in specificity (71% vs 76%, P =.26).
Conclusion: When incorporating Kupffer-phase findings, Sonazoid-CEUS LI-RADS had higher sensitivity without loss of specificity comparing with SonoVue-CEUS LI-RADS.
Background: Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System (LI-RADS) was designed for contrast-enhanced US (CEUS) with pure blood pool agents for diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), such as SonoVue, but Kupffer-cell agents, such as Sonazoid, allow additional lesion characterization in the Kupffer phase yet remain unaddressed.
Preparation and Performance of Highly Sensitive and Selective Mercury Fluorescence Sensor Based on Rhodamine Tetraphenylporphyrin
Authors: Li Ling , Yao Yinuo , Wang Xiaowan , Yu Yaoqi , Ji Tailong , Li Han , Li Yi , Liu Yuanyuan
Published: March 2024

A highly selective fluorescent probe Por-RBO for Hg2+ was designed and synthesized with Rhodamine B and porphyrin as the fluorophore. The sensor can determine the Hg2+ of a solution within the pH 5.0 to 8.0, free from interference of other metal ions. When detected in buffer solution, the fluorescence was the strongest when 5 times the concentration of Hg2+ ion was added. Calculated by fluorescence titration method, the detection limit of probe Por-RBO for Hg2+ ion was as low as 0.12µmol/L. The geometries of Por-RBO and Por-RBO- Hg2+ were optimized at the B3LYP/6-31G** level by density functional theory. The charge distribution, orbital interactions and bonding characteristics were analyzed and compared in detail to discuss the recognition mechanism and structure-fluorescence property relationships. The results of cell fluorescence imaging and CCK-8 experiments showed that the probe Por-RBO has low cytotoxicity and can be used for fluorescence distribution imaging of Hg2+in living cells.
Aphicidal and antifeedant activity of Synandrospadix vermitoxicus extracts against Myzus persicae on potato plants
Authors: López-Isasmendi Guadalupe , Machado-Assefh Cristina Renata , Reyes María Guadalupe , Uriburu María Laura , Alvarez Adriana Elisabet
Published: March 2024

Potato crops are usually kept virus-free through intensive aphid vector control schemes that require multiple treatments with insecticides. The generalist aphid Myzus persicae developed different mechanisms of resistance to insecticides, and there is a need for sources of novel insecticides. Synandrospadix vermitoxicus (Griseb.) Engl., an Araceae family native to the northwestern region of Argentina, Paraguay, and Bolivia has been locally described as having insecticidal properties against insect larvae and could be a potential source of new natural insecticides against aphids. We tested the antifeedant and aphicidal effects of two extracts from the tubers of S. vermitoxicus, ethanolic and hexanic, on M. persicae. First, we treated potato leaves with the extracts to assess their antifeedant effect by measuring host preference changes in M. persicae. Then, we evaluated its aphicidal effect by offering the extracts to aphids through artificial diets and the aphid probing behaviour by electrical penetration graph. We also analysed the extracts for the main classes of secondary metabolites. We found that both extracts have antifeedant effects, with the hexanic being the strongest and accordingly, aphid probing behaviour was affected on leaves treated with hexanic extract. While the ethanolic extract affected the survival of aphids fed on artificial diets, the hexanic extract did not. The analysis of S. vermitoxicus extracts shows an array of flavonoids and triterpenoids compounds. Therefore, our results show that the tubers of this plant could be a source for a novel product with potential use on the control of M. persicae on potato crops.
Utilizing Targeted Enhanced-Whole-Genome Sequencing in Precision Oncology for the Treatment of Solid Tumors: A Clinical Perspective
Authors: Helali Aya El , Ackershoek Amy , Barcomb Alexis , Oh Brian Baek-Lok , Bao Chunyang , Kim Jung-Ah , Lee Eun Kyoung , Lee Jeong-Hoon , Lee Sangmoon , Connolly-Strong Erin
Published: March 2024

Background
Genomic alterations in tumors provide key insights into the clinical management of patients. Over the past decade, targeted panel sequencing (TPS) has been a key tool in oncology. With recent advances in sequencing technology and cost reduction, whole-genome sequencing (WGS) has now become a viable and comprehensive method for analyzing cancer genomes.
Methods
A retrospective analysis of 24 cases to evaluate the clinical utility of targeted enhanced whole-genome sequencing (TE-WGS). The TE-WGS assay was evaluated by assessing its impact on targeted therapy selection, clinical trial opportunities, exclusion of non-beneficial therapies, and diagnostic clarity.
Results
TE-WGS demonstrated clinical utility in 71% of cases. 50% of cases reveal actionable genomic alterations aligned to on- and off-label targeted therapies. Notably, 50% of patients exhibited genomic profiles that aligned with ongoing clinical trials.
Conclusion
This report underscores the clinical value of TE-WGS in providing a nuanced genomic landscape that can be integrated into clinical practice for precision oncology, thereby enhancing personalized treatment strategies.
Virtually screened inhibitors for Human Papilloma Virus infections
Authors: Vani Vemula , Alagumuthu Manikandan , Prasad Sanjay , Paul Nikita , Nithya G , Pooja N , Pooja V
Published: March 2024

Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is one of the most common sexually transmitted diseases. The current treatment methods consist of the use of chemotherapeutic agents or the application of surgical procedures to remove the developed tumors. The alternatives to treat HPV- associated diseases is the discovery of accessible drug-based therapies. In HPV infected cell, E6 protein complexes with E6AP to form p53 degradation complex and induce tumorigenesis. The objective of this study is to discover potential small molecule inhibitors against HPV16 E6 protein using virtual screening approach. Three novel HPV 16 E6 inhibitors viz. compound 5, compound 7 and compound 10 were designed using a fragment-based approach. The structural information of these three novel compounds was used in virtual screening against in- trials subset of ZINC database and a total of 9800 hits were identified. The obtained molecules from the database were further screened by three stages of virtual screening using GLIDE module of Schrodinger software. The results reveal that Five hit molecules (ZINC000034853956, ZINC000001534965, ZINC000095617673, ZINC000005764481 and ZINC000071606215) showed better glide score in comparison with reference molecule, Luteolin. These molecules exhibited crucial interactions with E6 protein of HPV 16. The pharmacokinetic properties of these hit molecules were analyzed using QikProp program. The results indicate that all the five molecules were found to have good pharmacokinetic properties and human oral absorption. All the five hit molecules were predicted to be no toxic and except ZINC000005764481, all other four molecules showed druglike behavior. Therefore, the four hit molecules (ZINC000034853956, ZINC000001534965, ZINC000095617673 and ZINC000071606215) can be used as lead molecules in the development of HPV 16 E6 inhibitors for treatment of HPV related diseases.
Au Coated Photonic Crystal Fiber based Surface Plasmon Resonance Sensor: Design and Investigation
Authors: Afrin Sadia , Sarker Sanchita , Paul Bikash Kumar , Hossain Md Abir , Islam Md Kabirul
Published: March 2024

We propose in this research an idiosyncratic, shallow to erect, and highly perceiving Plasmonic material-coated photonic crystal fiber (PCF) based micro-structured biosensor. Our precedence has a cardinal pattern of circular air holes inside the fiber, which leads to a superior sensing performance. The evaluation of all the sensor characteristics has been expelled by sustaining the finite element method (FEM) of COMSOL Multiphysics. The gold (Au) layer just around the fiber acts as the plasmonic material. Gold is picked out due to its high stable rate and maximum resonance peak value in the sensing environment. After the swelling of all the fiber parameters, we derived a maximum amplitude sensitivity (AS) and wavelength sensitivity (WS) of 114 RIU− 1 and 20000 nm/RIU, respectively, with a maximum sensor resolution of 1.15×10− 9 for wavelength. The overall analyte sensing range is from refractive indices 1.36 to 1.4. With its enhanced performance in terms of sensitivity, we believe that this Plasmonic material-coated PCF biosensor can potentially contribute to the detection of unknown analytes.
Treatment patterns and patient journey in progressive pulmonary fibrosis: a cross-sectional survey
Authors: Chaudhuri Nazia , Spagnolo Paolo , Valenzuela Claudia , Amatto Valeria C. , Carter Oliver-Thomas , Lee Lauren , Small Mark , Kreuter Michael
Published: March 2024

Background
For patients with interstitial lung diseases (ILD) with a progressive pulmonary fibrosis (PPF) phenotype, current knowledge of disease characteristics at diagnosis, patient journey, and treatment is limited. This study aimed to describe demographics and clinical experiences of patients presenting with PPF in a European real-world setting.
Methods
Data were analysed from the Adelphi Real World PPF-ILD Disease Specific Programme™, a cross-sectional survey of pulmonologists and rheumatologists in five European countries (France, Germany, Italy, Spain, United Kingdom) and internal medicine specialists (France) from April to October 2022. Physicians provided data for up to 12 consecutive patients with physician-confirmed ILD with a progressive phenotype other than idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Analyses were descriptive.
Results
Overall, 265 physicians reported on 1,335 patients. Mean (standard deviation [SD]) age at survey date was 60.4 (11.6) years, 91.2% were white, 58.1% female, 44.0% non-smokers. The mean age (SD) at first healthcare professional (HCP) visit was 57.6 (12.1) years, with 63.3% patients first consulting a primary care physician. There was a mean delay of 7.8 (22.7) months between first ILD symptom and HCP visit, and another 7.7 (12.8) months to ILD diagnosis. There were 47.7% patients with physician-reported moderate ILD at survey date, 42.3% with mild and 10.0% with severe ILD. Disease progression was reported in the 12 months prior to the survey for 19.5% of patients; of these, progression was based on worsening symptom severity in 27.3% and on lung function decline in 25.8%. For patients experiencing symptoms prior to ILD diagnosis (72.8%), the most common symptoms were dyspnoea on exertion (80.5%) and cough (57.8%). Overall, 17.4% of patients were misdiagnosed prior to ILD diagnosis, with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease suspected in 39.2% of them. The most frequent comorbidities were anxiety (16.9%) and gastroesophageal reflux (15.5%). Although 77.8% of patients were receiving treatment for ILD at survey date, 15.6% of patients had never been prescribed treatment for ILD.
Conclusions
This real-world study expands our understanding of patients, diagnostic delays and treatment gaps experienced by patients diagnosed with PPF in Europe. Given the progressive nature of PPF, diagnostic delay may lead to poor outcomes, including shorter survival.
Trial registration:
n/a
Psychometric validation of the Arabic version of the Irrational Procrastination Scale (IPS)
Authors: Chahine Abdallah , Yakın Ecem , Malaeb Diana , Hallit Rabih , Obeid Sahar , Hallit Souheil , Fekih-Romdhane Feten
Published: March 2024

Background: Procrastination can be defined as voluntarily delaying or postponing a task that is often regarded as important or necessary to do. It often has short term benefits but high future burdens. The Irrational Procrastination Scale (IPS) is a 9-item self-reporting scale that focuses on the implemental aspect of procrastination and are formulated in a simple and direct to the point form, making it easier for participants to express their opinion. No real effort was made to translate and provide procrastination scales to Arabic speaking populations and countries. The objectives of our study were to evaluate the validity of the Arabic version of IPS, assess its internal reliability and explore concurrent validity of the IPS based on patterns of correlations between procrastination and time perspectives.
Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted from February to March 2023 and involved 341 participants from various regions of Lebanon. The Exploratory-to-Confirmatory (EFA-CFA) strategy was used to confirm the IPS validity.
Results: The results from the EFA revealed a three-factor solution explaining 58.79% of the common variance. However, the CFA of the three-factor model obtained in the EFA indicated modest fit indices. An examination of the modification indices revealed that the item 6 cross loaded on two factors (above .48). Accordingly, a modified CFA model, omitting item 6 was applied; compared to the original one, the modified version indicated a significantly improved model fit. The internal reliability of the scale was good (α = .81 and ω = .83). Model fit for configural, metric and scalar invariance was shown. Higher time perspective dimensions’ scores, namely past negative, past positive, present fatalistic and present hedonistic, were significantly associated with higher irrational procrastination.
Conclusion: The Arabic version of the IPS can be used as a screening tool to assess procrastination in an adult population.
Development and Initial Validation of the Counselor Self-Discrepancy Inventory
Authors: Lee Donghun , Nam Sojeong , Jeong Jeongwoon , Kim Isak , Park Eunji , Higgins Kristin
Published: March 2024

This study provides preliminary evidence for the Counselor Self-Discrepancy Inventory (CSDI), designed to assess the professional and personal selves of counselors and the discrepancies between them. Using a sample of 366 counselors in the United States, initial item development involved a literature review and expert review, and 22 characteristics and qualities that reliably predict the clinical success of counseling were selected for data analyses. An exploratory factor analysis identified a three-factor structure comprising 12 items. This structure included three factors related to ‘Resilient,’ ‘Responsive/Flexible,’ and ‘Client-centered,’ which represent the essential qualities of competent counselors. The concurrent and discriminant validities of this newly developed measure were supported by its correlations with the Counselor Burnout Inventory subscales, excluding the Negative Work Environment subscale. The findings of our study suggest the CSDI’s versatility in identifying counselors’ self-discrepancies and enhancing the supervision process.
Intentions and barriers to help-seeking in children and adolescents differing in depression severity: Cross-sectional results from a school-based mental health project
Authors: Baldofski Sabrina , Scheider Jelena , Kohls Elisabeth , Klemm Sarah-Lena , Koenig Julian , Bauer Stephanie , Moessner Markus , Kaess Michael , Eschenbeck Heike , Lehner Laya , Becker Katja , Krämer Jennifer , Diestelkamp Silke , Thomasius Rainer , Rummel-Kluge Christine
Published: March 2024

Background: Mental health problems, such as depression, have a high prevalence in children and adolescents (C&A). However, the majority of C&A suffering from depression do not seek professional help. In addition to general barriers, the specific psychopathology related to depressive symptoms may decrease their intentions to seek professional help. This study aimed to compare help-seeking behavior, intentions and perceived barriers between C&A with different levels of depressive symptoms.
Methods:This cross-sectional study is part of a large-scale, multi-center project. Participants were
N = 9,509 C&A who were recruited in German schools and completed a baseline screening questionnaire. Based on their depressive symptoms, C&A were allocated to the following three subgroups: a) without depressive symptoms, b) with subclinical symptoms, c) with clinical symptoms (measured by PHQ-A). Quantitative analyses compared previous help-seeking behavior (AHSQ), help-seeking intentions (GHSQ) and perceived barriers (Barriers questionnaire) between those different subgroups. A qualitative content analysis examined text answers on other perceived barriers to help-seeking.
Results:Participants were mostly female (n = 5,575, 58.6%) and 12 to 24 yearsold (M =15.09, SD = 2.37). Participants with different levels of depressive symptoms differed significantly in help-seeking behavior, intentions and perceived barriers. Specifically, participants with clinical depressive symptoms reported more previous help-seeking, but lower intentions to seek help compared to participants without symptoms (all p < .05). Participants with subclinical depressive symptoms reported a similar frequency of previous help-seeking, but higher intentions to seek help compared to participants without symptoms (all p <.05). Perception of barriers was different across subgroups: participants with clinical and subclinical depressive symptoms perceived the majority of barriers such as stigma, difficulties in accessibility, and family-related barriers as more relevant than participants without depressive symptoms. Across all subgroups, participants frequently mentioned intrapersonal reasons, a high need for autonomy, and a lack of mental health literacy as barriers to help-seeking.
Conclusions: C&A with higher levels of depressive symptoms are more reluctant to seek professional help and perceive higher barriers. This underlines the need for effective and low-threshold interventions to tackle barriers, increase help-seeking, and lower depressive symptoms in C&A differing in depression severity.
Trial Registration: DRKS00014685
Nitrogen Accountancy in Space Agriculture
Authors: Yates Kevin , Berliner Aaron J. , Makrygiorgos Georgios , Kaiyom Farrah , McNulty Matthew J. , Khan Imran , Kusuma Paul , Kinlaw Claire , Miron Diogo , Legg Charles , Wilson James , Bugbee Bruce , Mesbah Ali , Arkin Adam P. , Nandi Somen , McDonald Karen A.
Published: March 2024

Food production and pharmaceutical synthesis are posited as essential biotechnologies for facilitating human exploration beyond Earth. These technologies not only offer critical green space and food agency to astronauts but also promise to minimize mass and volume requirements through scalable, modular agriculture within closed-loop systems, offering an advantage over traditional bring-along strategies. Despite these benefits, the prevalent model for evaluating such systems exhibits significant limitations. It lacks comprehensive inventory and mass balance analyses for crop cultivation and life support, and fails to consider the complexities introduced by cultivating multiple crop varieties, which is crucial for enhancing food diversity and nutritional value. Here we expand space agriculture modeling to account for nitrogen dependence across an array of crops and demonstrate our model with experimental fitting of parameters. By adding nitrogen limitations, an extended model can account for potential interruptions in feedstock supply. Furthermore, sensitivity analysis was used to distill key consequential parameters that may be the focus of future experimental efforts.
Comparing Inquiry-Based and Design-Based Approaches in STEM Education: The Case of the Archimedean Screw Activity
Authors: Öndeş Rabia Nur
Published: March 2024

The diversity of instructional approaches, methods, and strategies in STEM education leads to a wide range of implementations. STEM activities, traditionally associated with the engineering design process, can be implemented using various approaches such as problem-based, project-based, design-based, and inquiry-based methods. In line with this, the aim of this study was to apply the Archimedean Screw activity to students with similar backgrounds using both inquiry-based and design-based methods. The observed differences were then analysed to identify the dimensions that highlight these distinctions. In the inquiry-based STEM activity, students utilized an activity sheet with leading questions, fill in the blanks, graphs, and tables related to the screw's variables. They constructed a mathematical model using the screw formula (h = a.n) and designed their own Archimedean Screw, considering scientific information and the mathematical model. They acted as engineers, making improvements based on variables impacting efficiency and solving the initial problem. In the design-based STEM activity, students followed the EDP with teacher guidance to design their own Archimedean Screw. They made improvements based on variables impacting efficiency, successfully solving the initial problem. Additionally, the comparison of the two cases revealed differences across multiple dimensions, including timeframe, knowledge in focus, activity application, learning approach, cognitive engagement, path to a solution, application of mathematics, skills in focus, adaptability and flexibility, motivation and engagement, assessment methods, teacher's role, and student's role. This comparison aids in informed decision-making for teachers, researchers, and stakeholders when designing STEM activities, considering the advantages and disadvantages of both approaches.
Far-red Light and Nitrogen Concentration Elicit Crop-specific Responses in Baby Greens under Superelevated CO2 and Continuous Light
Authors: Kennebeck Emily J. , Meng Qingwu
Published: March 2024

Baby greens are becoming increasingly popular in the consumer market because of their desired flavor and leaf size. The short life cycles and fast response times to environmental stimuli make baby greens ideal for testing environmental conditions for space crop production. Additionally, far-red (FR) light has been used for microgreen and baby green research to enhance stem elongation, leaf expansion, and biomass; however, how it interacts with nutrient solution nitrogen (N) concentrations remains unclear. During this ground-based study, we characterized how FR light and N concentrations influenced the growth and morphology of Chinese cabbage (Brassica rapa var. chinensis cv. Tokyo Bekana) and kale (Brassica oleracea var. sabellica cv. Red Russian) baby greens under similar superelevated CO2 and low relative humidity to levels observed in spaceflight. Plants were subject to combinations of four sole-source light spectra and three N concentrations (75, 125, and 175 mg⋅L−1). At the same total photon flux density (PFD) of 200 μmol⋅m−2⋅s−1, we maintained the same blue and green PFDs at 25 μmol⋅m−2⋅s−1 each; the remaining 150 μmol⋅m−2⋅s−1 comprised four red (R) and FR PFD combinations (FR: 0, 25, 50, and 75 μmol⋅m−2⋅s−1). Increasing the FR PFD enhanced the typical shade-avoidance morphology of Chinese cabbage ‘Tokyo Bekana’ and kale ‘Red Russian’, exhibiting leaf length increases of 20% to 26% and 31% to 61%, respectively. Edible biomass did not increase with increasing FR PFDs for either species, regardless of the N concentration. Increasing the N concentration increased the Chinese cabbage ‘Tokyo Bekana’ fresh mass and dry mass by 32% to 59% and 37% to 74%, respectively, except under 25 μmol⋅m−2⋅s−1 of FR light, with which shoot fresh mass increased by 55% with an increasing N concentration from 75 to 125 mg⋅L−1; however, the shoot dry mass was unaffected. Increasing the N concentration did not affect kale ‘Red Russian’ growth under various FR PFDs. We conclude that partially substituting incremental FR light for R light elicits the shade-avoidance response, with little influence on the growth, of Chinese cabbage ‘Tokyo Bekana’ and kale ‘Red Russian’ baby greens under superelevated CO2 and continuous light, and that the former, but not the latter, crop can benefit from increased N fertilization.
Application of EEM fluorescence spectroscopy for characterizing organic DBP precursors in different water sources: a review
Authors: Hu Jinglong , Xiao Rong , Zhang Ruihua , Wu Zhengdi , Jiang Fangyuan , Ye Cheng , Qu Ruixin , Chu Wenhai
Published: March 2024

Disinfection by-products (DBPs), generated from the reaction of disinfectants with DBP precursors, have been found to pose unintentional risks to human health. Considering that the concentration and speciation of DBPs formed during disinfection will be affected by the content and composition of dissolved organic matter (DOM), widespread concern about the characteristics of DBP precursors in water sources have been prompted. Three-dimensional excitation–emission matrix (EEM) can quickly and efficiently determine the properties and composition of DOM in water, and thus is generally used to investigate the origin of DBP precursors in water sources. This study overviews the fluorescent properties of different DBP precursors, summarizes the application of different EEM interpretation methods in DBP precursors and analyses the key factors affecting the correlation between the fluorescent components and DBP precursors (e.g., natural organic matter, algal organic matter, effluent organic matter and organic matter derived from other sources). A series of factors, including composition of fluorophores, bromide concentration, spatio-temporal characteristics and disinfectant types, could impact the correlation between DBP formation potential and fluorescent components. As for future research needs, it is of significance to select suitable fluorescence analysis methods and investigate the combination of EEM with other characterization technologies based on different situations.
Water quality emergency monitoring networks: A method for identifying non-critical variables based on Shannon's entropy
Authors: Cruz Fábio Monteiro , Silva Talita Fernanda das Graças
Published: March 2024

In the occurrence of environmental disasters involving water resources, deploying an emergency monitoring network for assessing water quality is within the first measures to be taken. Emergency networks usually cover a large set of water quality variables and monitoring stations along the watershed. Focusing on variables that represent greater risk to the environment and have less predictable spatial and temporal distribution is a strategy to optimize efforts on monitoring. The goal of this study is to assess the use of Shannon's entropy to identify non-critical water quality variables in an emergency monitoring network implemented in a watershed impacted by the collapse of a mining iron tailing dam, the Doce River watershed (Brazil). Monitoring stations were grouped into water quality subregions through cluster analysis and Shannon's entropy was used to estimate information redundancy of monitored variables. From information redundancy and after checking for compliance with environment normative, non-critical water quality variables were identified. Results indicated that non-critical variables represent 32–50% of the variables monitored. Emergency network managers find in this method a robust tool to improve the network performance. However, special attention should be paid to outliers' presence that can bias analyses based on Shannon's entropy.
Trend analysis of hydro-climatic variables in the Great Lakes Depression region of Mongolia
Authors: Dorjsuren Batsuren , Zemtsov Valery A. , Batsaikhan Nyamdavaa , Demberel Otgonbayar , Yan Denghua , Hongfei Zhou , Yadamjav Otgonbayar , Chonokhuu Sonomdagva , Enkhbold Altanbold , Ganzorig Bolorjargal , Bavuu Erdenebayar , Namsrai Oyunchimeg , Xiang Liu , Yingjie Yan , Siyu Wang
Published: March 2024

Arid and semi-arid regions are the first to be affected by hydro-climatic changes. The Great Lakes Depression Basin in western Mongolia is the most notable example of such a region. Therefore, analyzing hydro-climatic changes in the Great Lakes Depression region is essential for future climate, hydrological, eco-hydrological processes, and ecosystem studies in similar areas and basins. In this study, Mann–Kendall (MK), innovative trend analysis method (ITAM), and Sen's slope estimator test (SSET) were used to determine the interrelationship between climate and river discharge changes and lake water level changes through statistical analysis. During the last 30 years, the air temperature has increased by 1.2 °C (Z = 1.16). Total annual precipitation decreased by 23.44 mm, resulting in 134.16 mm (Z = −0.79). The river discharge of the major rivers, such as Khovd River (Z = −3.51) and Zavkhan River (Z = −6.01), has significantly decreased. In Uvs (Z = 0.30) and Khyargas (Z = 2.03) lakes, the water level has also dropped. This study confirms that the increase in air temperature in the depression area of the Great Lakes reduces the amount of precipitation, and the decrease in precipitation affects the decrease in river discharge, which further affects the water level of the inflowing lakes.
Impact of climate change on the water resources of the Atbara River using novel hydrological models
Authors: El-Mahdy Mohamed El-Sayed , Abdel-Monsef Mohamed , Abo-Elella Salwa , Shahba Mohamed
Published: March 2024

Rivers respond directly to climate change, as well as incorporating the effects of climate-driven changes occurring within their watersheds. In this research, climate change's impact on the Atbara River, one of the main tributaries of the Nile River, was studied. Various statistical methods of analysis were applied to study the basic characteristics of the climatic parameters that affect the discharge of the Atbara River. The three hydrological gauging stations on the Atbara River, namely, the Upper Atbara and Setit reservoirs, Khashm el-Girba reservoir, and Atbara Kilo 3 station, were included in the study. The correlation between the meteorological parameters and the hydrology of the Atbara River and the prediction of the future hydrology of the Atbara River Basin was determined. Many hydrological models were developed and tested to predict the hydrology of the river. Finally, forecasting for river hydrology was built. No significant trend was found in the precipitation in the study area. The developed model simulates the observed data with a high coefficient of determination ranging from 0.7 to 0.91 for the three hydrological gauging stations studied. Results predicted a slight decrease in river discharge in future years.
Statins and Venous Thromboembolic Disease – Where are we Now?
Authors: Poredoš Pavel , Mukherjee Debabrata , Blinc Aleš
Published: March 2024

:

Classical risk factors for atherosclerosis also play a role in the pathogenesis of venous
thromboembolism (VTE). Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol has prothrombotic and endothelium-
deteriorating effects which are not limited to the arterial system. The association between hypercholesterolemia
and VTE has been established, but the benefits of statins in the prevention of
VTE assessed by observation studies seemed equivocal. The large, randomized trial Justification
for the Use of Statins in Prevention: an Intervention Trial Evaluating Rosuvastatin (JUPITER) recorded
the occurrence of VTE as a protocol-specified endpoint and reported a reduced incidence
of VTE among subjects taking 20 mg of rosuvastatin daily vs placebo (hazard ratio 0.57; 95% confidence
interval 0.37-0.86; p=0.007). Similar results were confirmed by meta-analyses of observation
studies and randomized trials. Recently, a Mendelian randomization study that took the presence
of gene variants coding for less efficient hydroxymethyl-glutaryl coenzyme A reductase activity
as a proxy for statin treatment, confirmed a small, but significant negative association between
the score of selected genetic polymorphisms and the incidence of VTE. However, since the
protective effects of statins are limited, they should not be substituted for guideline-recommended
VTE prophylaxis or anticoagulation treatment.