bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Psychometric validation of the Arabic version of the GAD-7 among Lebanese Adolescents
Authors: Khoury-Malhame Myriam El , Hallit Souheil , Sanchez-Ruiz Maria-Jose , Hajj Sleiman El , Doumit Rita 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Introduction.
Anxiety is one of the major global mental health concerns, particularly amidst accumulating adversities. It is the leading cause of distress in adolescents worldwide and has a profound deleterious impact on their mental and physical health and wellbeing. This paper seeks to identify and validate the psychometric properties of the Arabic version of the GAD-7 in Lebanon, aiming to improve the much-needed overall mental health screening in Middle Eastern countries.
Methods.
This study includes a cross-sectional design including 638 adolescents in Lebanese public schools. Participants aged 15–18 years were assessed using GAD-7 (anxiety), PCL-5 (post-traumatic stress disorder), and PTGi (post-traumatic growth) in their Arabic versions at two-time points, spaced three months apart.
Results.
Our analyses revealed that the 7 items of the GAD-7 converged into a single factor. Composite reliability of scores was adequate in the total sample (ω = .88 / α = .87). The convergent validity for this model was satisfactory. Results showed invariance across gender at the configural, metric, and scalar levels, with males showing a higher level of wellbeing compared to females. The pre-posttest assessment for the GAD-7 scale was conducted on 359 participants; the intraclass correlation coefficient was adequate 0.83 [95% CI .79; .86]. Our analyses also show that anxiety symptoms were significantly correlated with higher PTSD (r = 0.68; p < .001) and lower PTG (r = − .12; p = .004).
Conclusion
The Arabic GAD-7 among Lebanese adolescents displayed highly satisfactory psychometric properties, underscoring its validity. This scale could be valuable for educators and clinicians as a screening tool to rapidly detect anxiety among this vulnerable age group as GAD-7 is easy-to-use, easy to understand, culturally sensitive for Arab population and age appropriate for 15–18-year-old students.
Air Quality in different urban Hotspots in a Metropolitan City in India and the environmental implication
Authors: Diya M , Kuppili Sudheer Kumar , Nagendra S M Shiva 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

This research study investigates hourly data on concentrations of five major air pollutants such as particulate matter (PM10, PM2.5) and gaseous pollutants (SO2, NO2, CO) measured during 2022 at four hotspot sites (Industrial site, traffic site, commercial site, harbour and one residential site) in Chennai, India. The analysis encompasses temporal variations spanning annual, seasonal, and diurnal variations in the pollutants. Notably, PM10 and CO emerge as the predominant pollutants, with the highest concentrations at industrial and traffic sites (PM10: 67.64 ± 40.77 µg/m³, CO: 1.41 ± 0.84 mg/m³; Traffic site: PM10: 58.67 ± 20.05 µg/m³, CO: 0.99 ± 0.57 mg/m³).Seasonal dynamics reveal prominent winter spikes in Particulate Matter (PM10, PM2.5) and carbon monoxide (CO) concentrations, while nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and sulphur dioxide (SO2) levels peak during the summer season, particularly in the harbour area. The proximity to roadways exerts a discernible influence on diurnal patterns, with traffic sites showcasing broader rush hour peaks compared to sharper spikes observed at other sites. Furthermore, distinct bimodal patterns are evident for PM10 and PM2.5 concentrations in residential and harbour areas. A common Lognormal distribution pattern is identified across the studied sites, suggesting consistent air quality trends despite contrasting locations. The Conditional Probability Function (CPF) is used in conjunction with local meteorological conditions for identifying key pollution sources in each location. The implementation of polar plots emphasizes industries as principal local sources of pollution, at industrial sites significantly contributing to PM10, SO2, and NO2 concentrations under specific wind conditions. The main objective of the present study is to facilitate a good understanding of pollutant dynamics, pollution sources, and their intricate interplay with meteorological factors, thereby contributing to the formulation and implementation of effective air pollution control and mitigation strategies.
A case of EBV+ DLBCL diagnosed after COVID-19 infection and literature review
Authors: Junxiang Li , Fangyuan Cheng , Xiaoqing Zhang , Jianwei Gu , Juhua Liu 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Objective
To describe the clinical characteristics and treatment course of a patient diagnosed with Epstein-Barr virus positive diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (EBV + DLBCL) after past pulmonary lesions regressed and contracting COVID-19.
Methods
We retrospectively analyzed the clinical characteristics and treatment course of a patient diagnosed with EBV + DLBCL, who had previously exhibited pulmonary lesions on PET-CT examination more than 7 years ago, which spontaneously regressed without specific treatment, and subsequently developed COVID-19 infection. Relevant literature was also reviewed.
Results
The patient's PET-CT examination more than 7 years ago suggested pulmonary lesions suspicious of malignancy, but further treatment was not pursued. Subsequent follow-up CT scans revealed gradual regression of the pulmonary lesions. Three months ago, the patient presented with symptoms of fever, chills, and limb weakness, and was diagnosed with EBV + DLBCL based on cervical lymph node biopsy following COVID-19 pneumonia. After treatment with the Rituximab-mini Cyclophosphamide Doxorubicin Vincristine Prednisone (R-miniCHOP) regimen, the patient's condition improved and was discharged.
Conclusion
Primary pulmonary lymphoma (PPL) may progress to EBV-positive diffuse large B-cell lymphoma after regression, potentially influenced by COVID-19. Diagnosis of PPL remains challenging in clinical practice, and timely pathological tissue biopsy is the most effective method for identification.
Extreme Mediterranean cyclones and associated variables in an atmosphere-only vs an ocean-coupled regional model
Authors: chericoni marco , Fosser Giorgia , Flaounas Emmanouil , Sannino Gianmaria , Anav Alessandro 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Complex air-sea interactions play a major role in both the variability and the extremes of the Mediterranean climate. This study investigates the differences between an atmosphere-only and an ocean-coupled model in reproducing Mediterranean cyclones and their associated atmospheric fields. To this end, two simulations are performed using the ENEA-REG regional Earth system model at 12 km atmospheric horizontal resolution over the Med-CORDEX domain, both driven by ERA5 reanalysis, for a common 33-year period (1982–2014). The atmosphere stand-alone simulation uses the WRF model with prescribed ERA5 SST, while in the second WRF is coupled to the MITgcm ocean model at horizontal resolution of 1/12°. A cyclone track method, based on sea level pressure, is applied to both simulations and to the ERA5 reanalysis to assess the model capability to reproduce the climatology of intense, potentially most impactful, cyclones. Results show that the seasonal and spatial distribution of the 500 most intense cyclones is similarly reproduced between WRF and ERA5, regardless the use of the coupling. The two simulations are then compared in terms of sub-daily fields at the cyclones' maximum intensity. Differences in SST distribution between the models primarily control variations in atmospheric variables throughout the boundary layer. Additionally, the research investigates the cyclone effects on ocean properties in the coupled simulation, revealing that strong winds enhance surface heat fluxes and upper ocean mixing, while lowering SST. The analysis shows the effectiveness of the coupled model in representing dynamic and thermodynamic processes associated with extreme cyclones across both the atmosphere and the ocean.
Effect of Helicobacter pylori Infection on Survival Outcomes of Patients Undergoing Radical Gastrectomy after Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy: A Multicenter Study in China
Authors: He Qi-Chen , Huang Ze-Ning , Lv Chen-Bin , Wu Yong-He , Qiu Wen-Wu , Ma Yu-Bin , Wu Ju , Zheng Chang-Yue , Lin Guo-Sheng , Li Ping , Wang Jia-Bin , Lin Jian-Xian , Lin Mi , Tu Ru-Hong , Zheng Chao-Hui , Huang Chang-Ming , Cao Long-Long , Xie Jian-Wei 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background
Neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) has been confirmed to improve the prognosis of patients with advanced gastric cancer (AGC). However, no study has investigated whether Helicobacter pylori (HP) infection affects the postoperative survival of patients who receive NAC.
Methods
This retrospective cohort study included 307 patients with AGC who underwent laparoscopic radical gastrectomy after NAC at three hospitals in China between January 1, 2016, and April 31, 2020. Cox regression was used to assess prognostic factors for survival. Kaplan-Meier was used for survival analysis.
Results
The HP + and the HP- group included 141 and 166 cases. The 3-year overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) of the HP + group were significantly better than the HP- group (3-year OS: 75.9% vs. 60.2%, 3-year DFS: 70.2% vs. 52.3%; All P < 0.001). For the HP + group, ypTNM Stage III (HR, 4.00; 95% CI, 1.11–14.39; P = 0.034), NAC ≥ 4 cycles (HR, 0.43; 95% CI, 0.20–0.90; P = 0.026), and adjuvant chemotherapy (AC) ≥ 4 cycles (HR, 0.20; 95% CI, 0.09–0.48; P < 0.001) are independent prognostic factors for OS. In the cohort of HP + patients who received ≥ 4 cycles of NAC, the prognosis of patients who received ≥ 4 cycles of AC after surgery was better than that of patients who received < 4 cycles of AC (3-year OS: 92.5% vs 71.4%; P = 0.042).
Conclusions
Following NAC, HP + patients with AGC exhibit better prognosis than that of HP- counterparts. For potentially resectable HP + AGC patients, radical surgery following ≥ 4 cycles of NAC with ≥ 4 cycles of sequential AC might be recommended to improve survival.
The Synergistic Effect of Clay Minerals on the Photodegradation of Humic
Authors: Bao Hao-Ran , Du Yan-Yun , Qu Jia-Zhuo , Luan Zhe-Xi , Sun Xiao-Long , Xiong Hao-Qin 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

The study systematically analyzes the photodegradation processes of humic in the plateau lake Erhai Lake and their interactions with clay minerals. The experiments simulate photodegradation reactions under natural conditions, comparing the changes before and after photodegradation reactions. The reduction in total organic carbon (TOC) and changes in the functional groups of organic matter in the photodegradation products of humic are recorded. Aromatic and aliphatic compounds have a key role in humic photodegradation. The photodegradation rate of humic shows a nonlinear change, and The presence of clay minerals accelerates the photodegradation process of humic. The adsorption effects of clay minerals significantly alter the photochemical behavior of humic. Under the influence of clay minerals, the adsorption of humic by clay minerals increases their contact with photons, thereby enhancing the photodegradation efficiency of humic. The continuous photodegradation reaction continuously reduces the particle size of humic adsorbed on the surface of clay minerals, further increasing the adsorption of humic on the surface of clay minerals, accelerating the entire system.
Oncologic Outcomes for Robotic Versus Laparoscopic Colectomy for Colon Cancer: An ACS-NSQIP Analysis
Authors: Leite Rodrigo Moisés de Almeida , Araújo Sérgio Eduardo Alonso , Callado Gustavo Yano , Bossie Hannah , Ricciardi Rocco 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Introduction: Robotic colectomy has been associated with comparable or improved short-term morbidity and mortality when compared to laparoscopic colectomy, including shorter length of stay. In this study, we sought to understand oncologic advantages for robotic as compared to laparoscopic colectomy in colon cancer.
Methods: We analyzed the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) participant user files for all elective colon cancer cases from 1/2016 through 12/2021 performed with minimally invasive surgical techniques (robotic and laparoscopic). We calculated relative risks (RR) through Poisson Regression models and treatment effect coefficients by propensity-score match, after adjusting for age, BMI, ASA scores, mechanical and antibiotic bowel preparation, emergency surgery, race, gender, smoking status, hypertension and diabetes mellitus.
Outcomes: Analyzed outcomes included rate of chemotherapy initiation within 90-days of surgery, number of harvested lymph nodes, any occurrence of intraoperative or postoperative blood transfusion, and the need for ostomy.
Results: During the study period, 44,745 patients underwent minimally invasive colectomy for colon cancer; 39,614 in the laparoscopic cohort and 7,831 in the robotic cohort. After adjusting for confounders, robotic colectomy was associated with a significant increase in the likelihood for initating chemotherapy within 90-days (RR: 1.98, 95%CI {1.86 - 2.10}, p<0.001). The robotic-treated patients had a significantly more lymph nodes harvested, a significant decrease in the need for intraperative or postoperative blood transfusion (RR: 0.64 , 95%CI {0.57 - 0.71}, p<0.001) and a significant reduction in the need for ostomy formation (RR: 0.26, 95%CI {0.22 - 0.30}, p<0.001).
Limitations: As a retrospective and non-randomized study, residual bias and confouding variables are likely to exist. The study is also subject to coding incompleteness and inaccuracies. We also do not have additional context on potential factors that might influence time to chemotherapy. Additionally, there is no information on surgeon or hospital volume, which can be associated with outcomes.
Conclusions: Robotic colectomy for colon cancer was associated with significant improvement in the rate of chemotherapy initiation within 90 days, a significant reduction in need for blood transfusions, and a lower likelihood of receiving an ostomy when compared to laparoscopic colectomy procedures. The data reveal substantial short term gains in oncologic outcomes for colon cancer performed with robotic techniques.
Complete de novo assembly of Wolbachia endosymbiont of Drosophila willistoni using long-read genome sequencing
Authors: Jacobs Jodie , Nakamoto Anne , Mastoras Mira , Loucks Hailey , Mirchandani Cade , Karim Lily , Penunuri Gabriel , Wanket Ciara , Russell Shelbi L 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Wolbachia is an obligate intracellular 𝛼-proteobacterium which commonly infects arthropods and filarial nematodes. Different strains of Wolbachia are capable of a wide range of regulatory manipulations in many hosts and modulate host cellular differentiation to influence host reproduction. The genetic basis for the majority of these phenotypes is unknown. The wWil strain from the neotropical fruit fly, Drosophila willistoni, exhibits a remarkably high affinity for host germline-derived cells relative to the soma. This trait could be leveraged for understanding how Wolbachia influences the host germline and for controlling host populations in the field. To further the use of this strain in biological and biomedical research, we sequenced the genome of the wWil strain isolated from host cell culture cells. Here, we present the first high quality nanopore assembly of wWil, the Wolbachia endosymbiont of D. willistoni. Our assembly resulted in a circular genome of 1.27 Mb with a BUSCO completeness score of 99.7%. Consistent with other insect-associated Wolbachia strains, comparative genomic analysis revealed that wWil has a highly mosaic genome relative to the closely related wMel strain from Drosophila melanogaster.
Characterizing Fashion Influencers' Behavior on Instagram
Authors: Cruz João Paulo Oliveira , Passaro Lucia C. , Almeida Jussara M. , Marques-Neto Humberto Torres 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

In recent years, the growth of social media platforms has led to an increase in the number of influencers who work in/for the fashion industry. These individuals have become attractive marketing partners for fashion brands. As a result, understanding how to measure the performance of fashion influencers (and what kinds of behavior lead to better performance) is paramount. This paper presents a methodology for characterizing fashion influencers' behavior on Instagram. Using a preexisting dataset, we analyze Instagram fashion influencers exploring behavioral patterns, engagement metrics, and content dynamics.
Our analyses uncover insights about influencer behavior, gender-based performance, and correlations between engagement metrics and posts' metadata (such as caption sentiment, length, and hashtag usage). Additionally, our research highlights the impact of early engagement and post comments on overall engagement rates, highlighting the role of community interaction. Though focused on Instagram influencers, our proposed methodology could be adapted to diverse datasets and social media platforms. In sum, we present here a preliminary study for understanding and decoding the complex dynamics of fashion influencer culture on social media, offering actionable insights for marketers, brands, aspiring influencers, scholars, and regular social media users.
Uncovering Organisational Pride and Psychological Safety from Glassdoor Reviews
Authors: Septiandri Ali , Šćepanović Sanja , Constantinides Marios , Capra Licia , Quercia Daniele 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Understanding employee experiences and attitudes is crucial for promoting a positive work environment, and enhancing engagement, satisfaction, productivity, and innovation. Organisational culture, represented by constructs like organisational pride (OP) and psychological safety (PS), captures these experiences. OP reflects employees' emotional attachment and dedication to an organisation, while PS embodies the collective perception of safety for risk-taking and open communication. Together, these constructs offer a rich perspective, providing a top-to-bottom view of employee experiences and attitudes. To evaluate OP and PS, we developed a deep-learning framework utilising language embeddings and applied it on 430,000 employee reviews spanning 2008 to 2020, encompassing 318 major U.S. companies. Our analysis revealed significant sector-specific variations in these constructs, highlighting the unique strengths and challenges within each sector. We identified four distinct types of companies based on their scores that we termed: ''Company and Teams Leadership'' demonstrated high levels of OP and PS, ''Company Leadership'' excelled in OP but lagged behind in PS, ''Teams Leadership'' exhibited high levels of PS but lacked in OP, and ''No Designated Leadership'' scored low in both metrics. Our automatic rationalisation of these organisational constructs paves the way towards the development of automated psychometric assessments at the workplace.
Seas of Renewal: Turning Sea Urchin Waste into Polyhydroxynaphtoquinone-Collagen Biomaterials for Skin Regeneration
Authors: Martinelli Giordana , Marzorati Stefania , Roncoroni Margherita , Magro Luciano , Brilli Matteo , Soave Raffaella , Trioni Mario Italo , Sugni Michela 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Chronic wounds and skin ulcers pose significant challenges to healthcare systems globally, necessitating innovative approaches to expedite healing processes. Biomaterial-based therapies have emerged as promising solutions for tissue regeneration. This study focuses on valorization of sea urchin waste towards the development and characterization of collagen-based scaffolds added with polyhydroxynaphthoquinones (PHNQs) antioxidants, successfully incorporated into biomaterials at optimal ratio, enhancing scaffold stability and integrity. Mechanical properties, water uptake, and degradation kinetics of the composite scaffolds were evaluated and compared with controls. Results indicate that composite scaffolds exhibit superior mechanical stability and slower degradation rates, attributed to strong interactions between collagen and PHNQs. This aspect was explored also through in silico investigations by means of Tight Binding Molecular Dynamics methods. It has been found that a covalent bond forms between the selected collagen representative and one PHNQ. Furthermore, the antioxidant activity of PHNQs was retained in the composite scaffolds, providing additional therapeutic benefits. Overall, these findings underscore the potential of collagen-based composite scaffolds as advanced wound healing therapeutics, combining regenerative properties with antioxidant effects for improved clinical outcomes.
Seismic Behavior of the Welded-Flange-Plate Moment Connection to Built-up Battened Columns
Authors: FakhriGhasrAhmadi Milad , Broumand Pooyan , Shamim Iman 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

In this paper, the seismic behavior of the welded-flange-plate (WFP) moment connection for the I-shaped beams to the built-up battened columns is numerically studied and different modifications to the connection configuration are investigated. To fulfill this goal, a comprehensive parametric study is performed on several variations of WFP connection to the built-up columns while stiffened with vertically positioned ribs. The study reveals that the connection undergoes severe states of strain/strain concentration at the beam connecting end-plate that attaches the beam’s top and bottom flange connecting plates to the flanges of the built-up column, and the cyclic behavior of the connection quite noticeably deteriorates due to undesirable out-of-plane deformation of the end-plate having low to moderate thickness. Hence, three retrofitting methods are suggested to improve the seismic behavior of the WFP connection with an end plate including (1) insertion of trimmed rectangular continuity plates inside the panel zone, (2) welding the end-plate interior face to the column flanges, and (3) fastening the end-plate to column flange with a welded T-section profile. A parametric study on the modified specimens indicates that the proposed modifications could remove observed weaknesses from the behavior of the conventional connection successfully and upgrade its seismic performance to the extent of becoming a reasonably adequate candidate for usage in the seismically resistant intermediate and special steel moment frames.