bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Gender-Related Measurement Invariance on the Self-Reporting Questionnaire (SRQ-20) With Older Adults in Puerto Rico
Authors: Burnette Denise , Kim Kyeongmo , Kim Seon 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Purpose
Using an intersectional approach to the detection of common mental disorders based on age, gender, and culture, this study: 1) examined the factor structure of the 20-item version of the SRQ (SRQ-20) and 2) explored gender-related measurement invariance in the instrument’s performance with older adults in Puerto Rico.
Methods
We merged data from two cross-sectional studies on mental health status and needs of older adults in Puerto Rico (N = 367). The first study was in 2019, two years after Hurricane María devastated the island (N = 154); the second study, in 2021, assessed knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) concerning COVID-19 (N = 213). We used chi-square and t-tests to examine gender differences in each SRQ item and assessed internal consistency reliability with Cronbach’s alpha and McDonald’s omega (values > .70). We ran two CFA models, then multigroup CFA to test for gender-related measurement invariance. We used weighted least square mean and variance adjusted (WLSMV) estimation to account for the binary response options in the SRQ-20 and Mplus version 8.4 for analyses. We interpreted standardized factor loadings. There were no missing data for any SRQ-20 items.
Results
The SRQ-20 had strong internal consistency reliability (α = .89; omega = .89). Female scores were higher than males (t = -2.159, p = .031). Both unidimensional and two-factor models fit the data well. We selected the unidimensional model, which is most widely used in practice. Standardized factor loadings were 0.548 to 0.823 and all were statistically significant (p < .001). We tested gender invariance with the one-factor model. Our findings did not support invariance.
Conclusion
We favored the unidimensional model for several reasons. First, the SRQ-20 was designed to assess global distress. Also, physical symptoms have both somatic and psychological components, so their co-occurrence makes a single-factor model more meaningful. Finally, since older adults experience more physical health problems, instruments that emphasize both types of distress may provide a more accurate measure than those that exclude somatic symptoms. Using the unidimensional model, the SRQ-20 was not invariant, meaning that it performed differently for male and female participants. Future studies of common mental disorders with older adults in Puerto Rico should consider using the SRQ-20 for research and practice and should determine appropriate threshold scores for men and women.
Prognostic Role of Unusual Clinical Presentation in Acute Mastoiditis
Authors: Huélamo María Suárez-Bustamante , Alonso-Cadenas Jose Antonio , Moreno María Pérez , Sánchez Sonia Clavero , González Daniel Sánchez , Espí Mercedes de la Torre 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Purpose
To determine if unusual manifestations of acute mastoiditis (AM) have a worse outcome than when the disease presents characteristically. As a secondary objective, we describe the patients with an atypical clinical presentation of AM included in the series.
Methods
Retrospective single-center observational study of patients younger than 18 years diagnosed with AM from June 1, 2018 to May 31, 2023.
Unusual or atypical presentation is defined as any clinical manifestation in the absence of retroauricular erythema and/or ear protrusion observed on physical examination.
Results
A total of 110 children with AM were included in the registry. The clinical presentation was usual in 104 patients (94.5%) and unusual in 6 (5.5%). The signs and symptoms on physical examination of children with an unusual presentation were as follows: fever, otalgia, and altered level of consciousness (Patients 1 and 2), ataxia (Patients 3 and 4), fever, ataxia, and vomiting (Patient 5), and headache and vomiting (Patient 6).
Poor outcomes were more frequent in children with an unusual presentation (P < 0.001), mainly due to intracranial complications. In this series, only one patient with a usual clinical presentation developed sequelae (P > 0.05).
Conclusions
While AM with an unusual presentation is an uncommon finding, it should be considered in the differential diagnosis of young children with neurologic symptoms. Our results do not suggest a delay in diagnosis, but do show a greater risk of poor outcome.
Sero and Salivary Toxoplasma Immunoglobulins: In Silico Study on Anti-genicity-Based Therapies Docked TgERP and its Dysregulatory Action on Immunoglobulins Running title: Sero and salivary toxoplasmosis and drug docking
Authors: Hassanein Faika , Fadel Hewida H. , Shehata Amany I. , Hamdy Noha Alaa , Masoud Inas M. 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

We aimed to assess salivary and seroprevalence of toxoplasma immunoglobulins in risky populations and evaluate drug docking targeting TgERP. A Cross-sectional study was conducted in Alexandria University hospitals' outpatient clinics. 192 participants were enrolled from September 2022 to November 2023. Anti-Toxoplasma IgG and IgM were determined in serum and salivary by ELISA. An in-Silico study examined TgERP's protein-protein interactions with pro-inflammatory cytokine receptors, anti-inflammatory cytokine, cell cycle progression regulatory proteins, a proliferation marker, and nuclear envelope integrity-related protein Lamin B1. Our findings revealed that anti-T. gondii IgG were detected in serum (66.1%) and saliva (54.7%), with 2.1% of both samples were positive for IgM. Salivary IgG had 75.59% sensitivity, 86.15% specificity, 91.40% PPV, 64.40% NPP, 79.17% accuracy and fair agreement with serum IgG. On the other hand, the sensitivity, specificity, PPV, NPV, and accuracy in detecting salivary IgM were 75.0%, 99.47%, 75.0%, 99.47%, and 98.96%. AUC 0.859 indicates good discriminatory power. Examined synthetic drugs and natural products can target specific amino acids residues of TgERP that lie at the same binding interface with Lamin B1 and Ki67, subsequently, hindering their interaction. Hence, salivary samples can be a promising diagnostic approach. In addition, this study may help alleviate toxoplasmosis' inflammatory effects.
Vanadium Dissolution Eliminate the Lattice Distortion of Co-O Octahedron during Oxygen Evolution for Water Splitting
Authors: Fu Honggang , Liang Zhijian , Shen Di , Wei Yao , Sun Fanfei , Xie Ying , Wang Lei 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

The electrocatalysts for high-energy consumed anodic oxygen evolution reaction (OER) especially in water splitting are generally prone to reconfiguration, so the dynamic structural evolution mechanisms should be deeply investigated. Herein, coral-like nanoarray assembled by nanosheets were synthesized via the layered effect of cobalt (Co) and the one-dimensional guiding effect of vanadium (V). The unique structure facilitates the full contact between active sites and electrolyte to enhance the electrocatalytic activity. The hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and OER activity can be respectively promoted through modulating the electronic structure with nitrogen and phosphate anions. Thus, the assembled anion exchange membrane electrolyzer exhibits a direct current energy consumption of 4.31 kWh Nm–3@250 mA cm–2 at 70°C. It only required 1.88 V voltage to achieve a current density of 500 mA cm–2 with excellent stability over 200 h. Operando synchrotron radiation and Bode phase angle analyses reveal that the dissolution of vanadium species makes the distorted Co-O octahedral to regular octahedral structure during OER, accompanying by a decrease of band gap and a shortening of the Co-Co bond length. Such a structural evolution plays as the key active site for the formation of oxygen-containing intermediates, thereby accelerating the reaction kinetics.
Feline Respiratory Disease Complex: Insights into the Role of Viral and Bacterial Co- infections
Authors: Maboni Grazieli , Che Sunoh , Tallmadge Rebecca , Luca Eliana , Goodman Laura B. , Weese J Scott , Sanchez Susan 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Feline respiratory disease complex (FRDC) is caused by multiple viral and bacterial pathogens. There is limited information about the role of co-infections in pathogenesis and the current prevalence of pathogens in North America. We aimed to conduct a study using technical advances in molecular diagnosis and statistical modeling analysis to elucidate the occurrence of pathogens and how co-infections affect disease severity. We attained information from three diagnostic laboratories in North America regarding the occurrence of Bordetella bronchiseptica, Chlamydia felis, Mycoplasma, Felid alphaherpesvirus 1 (FeHV-1), feline calicivirus (FCV), and influenza A, along with age, seasonality, sex, and clinical signs. We also evaluated the role of co-infections in disease severity. These pathogens were also investigated in clinically normal cats (control). The most detected pathogens were Mycoplasma, FCV, and FeHV-1. Most pathogens were detected in the control group, highlighting the challenge of interpreting positive testing results. Co-infections of Mycoplasma and FCV, as well as Mycoplasma and FeHV-1, were important predictors of disease severity. Age, sex, and season had a minor impact on pathogen occurrence. This study provides new insights into FRDC and underlines the relevance of diagnostic panels to screen for a range of pathogens, providing knowledge for timely diagnosis and therapeutic interventions.
Prevalence and risk factors of gunshot wound infection in the Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo: a hospital-based cross-sectional study
Authors: Budema Paul Munguakonkwa , Manegabe Jean de Dieu Tumusifu , Hatu'm Victoire Urbain , Gulimwentuga Fabrice Cikomola , Toha Georges Kuyigwa , Mukuku Olivier , Tsongo Zacharie Kibendelwa , Kabesha Theophile Barhwamire , Wembonyama Stanislas Okitosho 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Background
Survivors of gunshot injury have a major risk of wound infection. The prevalence of gunshot wound infection rates in low-income countries various to a country from another. Overall, there are limited data on civilian gunshot wound infection and its predisposing factors. The aim of this study is to determine the prevalence of gunshot wound infection and associated risk factors in a tertiary hospital of eastern part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
Materials and methods
This was a retrospective analysis of data on the entire patients who presented in Provincial General Reference Hospital of Bukavu in the DRC with gunshot injury from January 1st 2019 to December 31, 2020.
Results
There were 549 patients, and wound infection was a complication in 26.6% of them. Multivariate logistic regression analysis identified fractures (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 1.81; 95% CI: 1.12–2.92; p = 0.0146), nerve damage (aOR = 2.65; 95% CI: 1.70–4.14; p < 0.0001), trunk (aOR = 5.64; 95% CI: 2.61–12.16; p < 0.0001), lower extremity (aOR = 2.71; 95% CI: 1.39–5.28; p = 0.0034), and multiple > 2 (aOR = 2.35; 95% CI: 1.05–5.25; p = 0.0378) as independent predictors of gunshot wound infection.
Conclusion
The independent predictors of gunshot wound infection identified in this study implied ajudicious assessment and a high priority accorded to trunk perforating wounds, fractures and vasculo-nervous damage in interventions aimed at reducing gunshot wound infection rate.
The Correlation between Caries and Vitamin: A Retrospective Investigation
Authors: Li Chuang , Chen Kexiao , Xin Weini 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Objectives
Vitamin consumption and caries are related, although not much research has looked at the two together. This study examined the connection between the total number of decayed teeth (Decay, D) and vitamin intake using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) database.
Methods
NHANES (2011–2018) provided the data for this retrospective analysis. Dental examiners, who were licensed dentists in at least one U.S. state, defined the number of caries-ridden teeth using the Radike AW Criteria for Diagnosis of Caries (1968), whereas the vitamin consumption data came from in-person interviews. To investigate the link between the total number of decayed teeth (D) and vitamin, multiple linear regression analysis was done. The quantitative data was described by mean ± standard deviation, whereas the categorical data was described by number of instances and proportion [n (%)].
Results
Results: This retrospective study comprised 3226 people in total. Approximately 579955.26 mg (579955.26/3226/30 = 5.99 mg/day/person) of vitamin C was the most consumed throughout the course of 30 days, making up 88.72% of the total amount of vitamin nutrients consumed. The total number of decayed teeth (D) was influenced by age (years) (β = 0.0125, P = 0.0281), PIR (β = 0.3348, P < 0.0001), BMI (β = -0.0299, P < 0.0391), gender (β = 0.5127, P = 0.0063), race (β = -0. 8265, P < 0.0001), education (β = 0.9201, P = 0.0013), vitamin B6 (β = 0.0112, P = 0.0076), vitamin C (β = 0.0005, P = 0.0370), and vitamin D (β = -0.0080, P = 0.0001), with BMI, race, and vitamin D exhibiting a negative correlation.
Conclusions
There is a correlation between vitamin intake and carie. Caries is more common when there is an excess of vitamin C, insufficient vitamin D, and excessive vitamin B6. Naturally, additional prospective clinical trials are required to confirm our findings and investigate potential causes.
Atypical Scurvy Presentation with Profound Bony Abnormality Detected via Magnetic Resonance Imaging- A Case Report
Authors: Qiyu Melvin Lee , Dawson Tom , Ahmed Amna 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Background
Scurvy, arising from vitamin C deficiency, remains relevant despite historical declines. The U.S. study found a 7.1% vitamin C deficiency rate in people aged 6 and older, and 1.6% among those aged 6 to 11 years old. Scurvy commonly presents with severe leg pain, reluctance to walk, and limping. Other symptoms include gingival bleeding, hypertrophy, and ecchymoses. Due to its rarity in the pediatric population, vitamin C deficiency poses a diagnostic challenge for those with atypical symptoms.
Case presentation
This case report details a 3-year-old boy presenting with musculoskeletal issues, initially evaluated for an injury. With no apparent fractures, X-rays led to further investigations, including Magnetic Resonance Imaging Short Tau Inversion Recovery (MRI STIR). The MRI STIR results revealed bone and soft tissue oedema, prompting concerns about systemic disorders. Abnormal blood results, coupled with comorbidities such as suspected autistic spectrum disorder, triggered collaboration among paediatric, orthopaedic, and haematology/oncology specialists. Extensive imaging and consultations unveiled a diagnosis of scurvy, illustrating the challenges in recognizing this vitamin deficiency amid overlapping symptoms with serious conditions.
The interdisciplinary team-initiated treatment with oral ascorbic acid and analgesia, addressing the patient's reluctance to consume a varied diet. Parental decline for measuring ascorbic acid levels added complexity. Following a multi-disciplinary approach involving paediatric dietitians and physiotherapists, the patient exhibited positive progress, emphasizing the importance of tailored interventions.
Conclusion
This case highlights the diagnostic challenges posed by scurvy's diverse clinical presentations and the imperative for healthcare providers to recognize its potential, especially in cases involving musculoskeletal symptoms. The enduring relevance of scurvy in contemporary healthcare underscores the need for heightened awareness, interdisciplinary collaboration, and ongoing monitoring, emphasizing both short-term treatment and long-term preventive measures through dietary habits.
Spectral Characteristics of Water-Soluble Rhodamine Derivatives for Laser- Induced Fluorescence
Authors: Ratanpara Abhishek , Kim Myeongsub , Kim Yeo Jun , Hidrovo Carlos H. 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

We present a comprehensive fluorescence characterization of seven water-soluble rhodamine derivatives for applications in laser-induced fluorescence techniques (LIF). Absorption and emission spectra for these dyes are presented over the visible spectrum of wavelengths (400 to 700 nm). Their fluorescence properties were also investigated as a function of temperature for LIF thermometry applications. Rhodamine 110 depicted the least fluorescence emission sensitivity to temperature at -0.11%/°C, while rhodamine B depicted the most with a -1.55%/°C. We found that the absorption spectra of these molecules are independent of temperature, supporting the notion that the temperature sensitivity of their emission only comes from changes in quantum yield with temperature. Conversely, these rhodamine fluorophores showed no change in emission intensities with pH variations and are, therefore, not suitable tracers for pH measurements. Similarly, fluorescent lifetime, which is also a property sensitive to local environmental changes in temperature, pH, and ion concentration, measurements were conducted for these fluorophores. It was found that Rhodamine B and Kiton Red 620 have shorter fluorescence timescales compared to those of the other five rhodamine dyes, making them least suitable for applications where temporal changes in emission are monitored. Lastly, we conducted experiments to assess the physicochemical absorption characteristics of these dyes’ molecules into PDMS, the most common material for microfluidic devices. Rhodamine B showed the highest diffusion into PDMS substrates as compared to the other derivative dyes.
Efficient Virtual Machine Allocation using Human Based Optimizer (TLBO) with Artificial Neural Network Model
Authors: Sharma Sanjeev , Rawat Pradeep Singh 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Cloud computing has revolutionized how resources are provisioned and utilized, offering scalability and flexibility to meet varying computational demands. Virtual Machine (VM) allocation, a critical aspect of cloud resource management, aims to optimize resource utilization while minimizing operational costs. In this paper, we propose a novel approach for VM allocation using a combination of Teaching Learning Optimization (TLO) and Artificial Neural Networks (ANN). The TLO-ANN model is designed to enhance the accuracy and efficiency of VM allocation decisions by leveraging knowledge transfer from pre-existing cloud environments. The proposed approach integrates historical allocation patterns and resource usage characteristics from multiple source clouds, allowing the model to learn from diverse scenarios. The TLO mechanism adapts the knowledge acquired from the source clouds to the target cloud's specific conditions, enabling effective allocation even in cases with limited target domain data. Furthermore, the ANN component of our approach provides a dynamic decision-making framework by continuously learning and adapting to changing workload patterns. The model considers multiple parameters to predict optimal VM allocation strategies, including CPU utilization, memory usage, and network traffic. The results demonstrate that our TLO-ANN approach outperforms traditional allocation methods regarding resource utilization, cost efficiency, and scalability. Through extensive experimentation and comparative analysis, we validate the effectiveness of the proposed TLO-ANN approach across various workload scenarios. The results showcase its ability to adapt to cloud environments, improving allocation accuracy and response times. Overall, this research contributes to advancing intelligent VM allocation techniques in the cloud computing Environment.
Post-secondary and post-baccalaureate medical school admission models: Perspectives from matriculating medical students in China and the United States
Authors: Deng Xiaomeng , Hou Jianlin , Luo Youhui , Zhang Huailin , Wells Traci 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Background
Medical school admission practices vary globally, with China and the US representing two mainstream models: post-secondary and post-baccalaureate. The former relies on a single standardized test score, while the latter evaluates candidates holistically. In this study, we aim to delineate the distinct advantages of each model by examining the experiences of matriculating medical students from both countries and analyzing their perspectives on these divergent admission models.
Methods
The authors conducted individual semi-structured interviews with first-year medical students from two highly ranked higher-education institutions in China and the US: Peking University Health Sciences Center (PKUHSC), Beijing, and David Geffen School of Medicine (DGSOM) at UCLA, Los Angeles, California. The authors interviewed twenty students from each institution, performed inductive thematic analysis on interview transcripts, and conducted descriptive quantitative analyses of medical student survey data.
Results
PKUHSC participants were younger and less exposed to clinical medicine before application; many cited external factors that influenced their decision to pursue medicine, and some stated that medicine was not their top choice field of interest. DGSOM participants had more clinical experiences; many took gap years before committing to medical school. Altogether, participants desired medical school admission practices that allow for 1) adequate opportunity for career exploration, 2) consideration of non-cognitive skills and non-academic achievements, and 3) flexibility in the journey before medical school and diversity in the student body. Participants also cautioned about the impact on finances and personal lives, bias in standardized test scores, and limitations to a holistic evaluation in medical school admission.
Discussion
Striking a balance between selectivity and equity in medical school admission is challenging. The post-baccalaureate model excels in identifying candidates demonstrating preparedness for career in medicine, while the post-secondary model offers accessibility to applicants from disadvantaged backgrounds. Further research is essential to inform best practices in medical school admission.
Transformation behavior of hazardous jarosite into recyclable hematite in a solution with high concentrations of K + and Na +
Authors: Xing Yubo , Deng Zhigan , Wei Chang , Li Xingbin , Li Minting 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Iron in the leaching solution with high K+ and Na+ concentrations was usually precipitated as the typical hazardous and toxic jarosite residues. However, this method of treatment has been greatly restricted by increasingly strict environmental regulations. Here we propose that iron can be precipitated from the solution with high K+ and Na+ concentrations as recyclable hematite products by adjusting the concentration ratio of sodium and potassium ions in the solution. The transformation behavior of jarosite into hematite in high concentration potassium ion and sodium ion solution was explained based on collision theory. The results indicated that in instances where the concentration ratio of Na+/K+ is ≥ 4:1, the iron present in the solution can be effectively precipitated as a recyclable hematite product, as opposed to forming the conventional hazardous jarosite residue, even under conditions where the potassium ion concentration reaches levels as high as 4g/L. On the other hand, thermodynamic and molecular dynamics simulations indicate that at a temperature of 185°C, the decomposition transformation of Na-jarosite (32.64 kJ and 7.25 eV) is more energetically advantageous compared to that of K-jarosite (61.07 kJ and 15.31 eV). The results were verified by the leaching solution from smelting industry. The iron content in the residues is above 58%, the sulfur content is below 4%, the zinc content is below 1%, and the total iron concentration in the supernatant is about 4g/L, reaching the production index of the smelting industry. The green, environmentally friendly, and recyclable separation of iron in a solution with high concentrations of potassium and sodium ions is achieved, which is of great significance for the treatment of iron-containing solution and wastewater in the chemical industry and metallurgy fields.