bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Prevalence, Predictors, and the Role of Social Support in Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Among Cancer Patients in Oman
Authors: Al Amri Hisham , Al Qadire Mohammad , Abdelrahman Hanan , Al Omari Omar , Damra Jalal , Aljezawi Ma’en 
Published: March 2024

Background
Cancer, regardless of type, presents a formidable life challenge affecting patients’ psychological well-being. Many perceive cancer diagnosis and treatment as traumatic.

Objectives
This study aimed to estimate posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) prevalence in Omani adult cancer patients, identify predictors, and probe its correlation with social support.

Methods
This cross-sectional study enrolled 343 adult cancer patients undergoing treatment from 3 hospitals in the Middle East country of Oman. Posttraumatic stress disorder was assessed via the PTSD Checklist for Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, and perceived social support was measured using the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support.

Results
The prevalence of PTSD among Omani adult cancer patients was 27.4%. Enhanced social support correlated with lower PTSD risk (odds ratio [OR], 0.95; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.93-0.97; P < .001). Predictors included shorter time since diagnosis (OR, 0.98; 95% CI, 0.97-0.99; P = .017), no psychiatric referral (OR, 0.46; 95% CI, 0.23-0.96; P = .04), and insufficient social support (OR, 0.96; 95% CI, 0.94-0.98; P < .001).

Conclusions
Social support significantly mitigates PTSD risk. Routine assessment and psychiatric referrals, especially for recent diagnoses, can enhance patients’ lives. Reevaluating the PTSD diagnostic cutoff score (33) merits consideration for improved clinical use.

Implications for Practice
Early PTSD assessment, particularly for low–social support new-diagnosed patients, is crucial for timely intervention. Psychiatric referrals can guide specialized treatments. Stressing social support’s role can guide healthcare providers, including oncology nurses, in supporting patients effectively.
Drinking Large Volume of Hot Water May Cause Increased 18F-FDG Uptake in Esophagus
Authors: Guo Ziyu , Dong Ziqian , Chen Feilong , Wei Lingge , Xie Peng 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
We present 2 cases of diffuse FDG accumulation in the esophagus due to drinking hot water before an 18F-FDG PET/CT scan. Drinking large volume of hot water immediately before the FDG PET/CT study may lead to challenges in the interpretation of the hypermetabolic esophagus.
The role of animal hosts in shaping gut microbiome variation
Authors: Maritan Elisa , Quagliariello Andrea , Frago Enric , Patarnello Tomaso , Martino Maria Elena 
Published: March 2024

Millions of years of co-evolution between animals and their associated microbial communities have shaped and diversified the nature of their relationship. Studies continue to reveal new layers of complexity in host–microbe interactions, the fate of which depends on a variety of different factors, ranging from neutral processes and environmental factors to local dynamics. Research is increasingly integrating ecosystem-based approaches, metagenomics and mathematical modelling to disentangle the individual contribution of ecological factors to microbiome evolution. Within this framework, host factors are known to be among the dominant drivers of microbiome composition in different animal species. However, the extent to which they shape microbiome assembly and evolution remains unclear. In this review, we summarize our understanding of how host factors drive microbial communities and how these dynamics are conserved and vary across taxa. We conclude by outlining key avenues for research and highlight the need for implementation of and key modifications to existing theory to fully capture the dynamics of host-associated microbiomes.
This article is part of the theme issue ‘Sculpting the microbiome: how host factors determine and respond to microbial colonization’.
Tethering of soluble immune effectors to mucin and chitin reflects a convergent and dynamic role in gut immunity
Authors: Dishaw L. J. , Litman G. W. , Liberti A. 
Published: March 2024

The immune system employs soluble effectors to shape luminal spaces. Antibodies are soluble molecules that effect immunological responses, including neutralization, opsonization, antibody-dependent cytotoxicity and complement activation. These molecules are comprised of immunoglobulin (Ig) domains. The N-terminal Ig domains recognize antigen, and the C-terminal domains facilitate their elimination through phagocytosis (opsonization). A less-recognized function mediated by the C-terminal Ig domains of the IgG class of antibodies (Fc region) involves the formation of multiple low-affinity bonds with the mucus matrix. This association anchors the antibody molecule to the matrix to entrap potential pathogens. Even though invertebrates are not known to have antibodies, protochordates have a class of secreted molecules containing Ig domains that can bind bacteria and potentially serve a similar purpose. The VCBPs (V region-containing chitin-binding proteins) possess a C-terminal chitin-binding domain that helps tether them to chitin-rich mucus gels, mimicking the IgG-mediated Fc trapping of microbes in mucus. The broad functional similarity of these structurally divergent, Ig-containing, secreted effectors makes a case for a unique form of convergent evolution within chordates. This opinion essay highlights emerging evidence that divergent secreted immune effectors with Ig-like domains evolved to manage immune recognition at mucosal surfaces in strikingly similar ways.
This article is part of the theme issue ‘Sculpting the microbiome: how host factors determine and respond to microbial colonization’.
Causality or confounding? Applying E values to examine associations between ultra-processed food consumption and weight gain
Authors: Robinson Eric , Jones Andrew 
Published: March 2024

AbstractBackgroundUltra-processed food (UPF) consumption is associated prospectively with weight gain and obesity in observational studies of adults. Unaccounted for confounding is a risk when attempting to make causal inference from observational studies. Limited research has examined how feasible it is that unmeasured confounding may explain associations between UPF consumption and weight gain in observational researchMethodsWe introduce the E value to obesity researchers. The E value is defined as the minimum strength of association that one or more unaccounted for confounding variables would need to have with an exposure (UPF consumption) and outcome (e.g., weight gain) to explain the association between the exposure and outcome of interest. We meta-analysed prospective studies on the association between UPF consumption and weight gain in adults. Next, we applied the E value approach and illustrated the potential role that unmeasured or hypothetical residual confounding variables could have in explaining associations.ResultsHigher consumption of UPFs was associated with increased weight gain in meta-analysis (RR=1.14). The corresponding E value = 1.55, indicating that unaccounted for confounding variables with small-to-moderate sized associations with UPF consumption and weight gain (e.g., depressive symptoms, trait overeating tendencies, access to healthy and nutritious food) could individually or collectively account for observed associations between UPF consumption and weight gain.ConclusionsUnaccounted for confounding could plausibly explain the prospective association between UPF consumption and weight gain in adults. High quality observational research controlling for potential confounders and evidence from study types devoid of confounding are now needed.
Chronically low NMNAT2 expression causes sub-lethal SARM1 activation and altered response to nicotinamide riboside in axons
Authors: Antoniou Christina , Loreto Andrea , Gilley Jonathan , Merlini Elisa , Orsomando Giuseppe , Coleman Michael P 
Published: March 2024

AbstractNicotinamide mononucleotide adenylyltransferase 2 (NMNAT2) is an endogenous axon survival factor that maintains axon health by blocking activation of the downstream pro-degenerative protein SARM1 (sterile alpha and TIR motif containing protein 1). While complete absence of NMNAT2 in mice results in extensive axon truncation and perinatal lethality, the removal of SARM1 completely rescues these phenotypes. Reduced levels of NMNAT2 can be compatible with life, however they compromise axon development and survival. Mice born expressing sub-heterozygous levels of NMNAT2 remain overtly normal into old age but develop axonal defectsin vivoandin vitroas well as behavioural phenotypes. Therefore, it is important to examine the effects of constitutively low NMNAT2 expression on SARM1 activation and disease susceptibility. Here we demonstrate that chronically low NMNAT2 levels reduce prenatal viability in mice in a SARM1-dependent manner and lead to sub-lethal SARM1 activation in morphologically intact axons of superior cervical ganglion (SCG) primary cultures. This is characterised by a depletion in NAD(P) and compromised neurite outgrowth. We also show that chronically low NMNAT2 expression reverses the NAD-enhancing effect of nicotinamide riboside (NR) in axons in a SARM1-dependent manner. These data indicate that low NMNAT2 levels can trigger sub-lethal SARM1 activation which is detectable at the molecular level and could predispose to human axonal disorders.
Tobacco Smoke Exposure is Characterized by a Distinct Nasal Rhinotype in a Pediatric Population
Authors: Monaco Hilary , Elaiho Cordelia R , Liu Bian , Chan Tiffany , Cantor Adam , Collaco Joseph Michael , McGrath-Morrow Sharon A , Wilson Karen M , Clemente Jose C 
Published: March 2024

ABSTRACTBackgroundSecondhand tobacco smoke exposure (TSE) increases susceptibility to respiratory diseases, but the mechanisms of action are poorly understood.ObjectiveTo study the effect of TSE in the nasal microbiome of children, and to evaluate whether such effect is dose-dependent with measured levels of cotinine in saliva and urine.MethodsThe study was performed at the Mount Sinai Kravis Children’s Hospital (New York, NY) and the Johns Hopkins Hospital (Baltimore, MD). We enrolled 236 children between 6 months and 10 years of age, both inpatients and outpatients. We collected swabs to characterize the diversity and composition of the nasal microbiome using 16S rRNA gene sequencing and measured cotinine levels in salivary and urinary samples to quantify TSE. We then determined the relationship between these measures and participant respiratory conditions, demographics and lifestyle factors.ResultsInfants with high cotinine levels had lower nasal microbiome alpha diversity and an enrichment in Moraxella, Dolosigranulum and Corynebacterium, which formed a distinct cluster in network analysis. A Dirichlet Multinomial Mixture model identified the existence of two distinct microbial rhinotypes, the first one characterized by significantly higher cotinine levels, lower alpha diversity, and enrichment of these taxa.ConclusionChildren with higher cotinine levels had reduced alpha diversity and a distinct nasal rhinotype. Our results suggest TSE is associated with alterations of the nasal microbiome and identify a rhinotype as a potential biomarker for TSE.
Translation of monosynaptic circuits underlying amygdala fMRI neurofeedback training
Authors: Trambaiolli Lucas , Maffei Chiara , Dann Evan , Biazoli Claudinei , Bezgin Gleb , Yendiki Anastasia , Haber Suzanne 
Published: March 2024

AbstractBackgroundfMRI neurofeedback targeting the amygdala is a promising therapeutical tool in psychiatry. It induces resting-state functional connectivity (rsFC) changes between the amygdala and regions of the salience and default mode networks (SN and DMN, respectively). We hypothesize these rsFC changes happen on the amygdala’s underlying anatomical circuits.MethodsWe used the coordinates from regions of interest (ROIs) from studies showing pre-to-post-neurofeedback changes in rsFC with the left amygdala. Using a cross-species brain parcellation, we identified the homologous locations in non-human primates. We injected bidirectional tracers in the amygdala of adult macaques and used bright- and dark-field microscopy to identify cells and axon terminals in each ROI. We also performed additional injections in specific ROIs to validate the results following amygdala injections and delineate potential disynaptic pathways. Finally, we used high-resolution diffusion MRI data from fourpost-mortemmacaque brains and onein vivohuman brain to translate our findings to the neuroimaging domain.ResultsThe amygdala had significant monosynaptic connections with all the SN and DMN ipsilateral ROIs. Amygdala connections with the DMN contralateral ROIs are disynaptic through the hippocampus and parahippocampal gyrus. Diffusion MRI in both species benefitted from using the ground-truth tracer data to validate its findings, as we identified false-negative ipsilateral and false-positive contralateral connectivity results.ConclusionsAmygdala neurofeedback modulates the SN and DMN through monosynaptic connections and disynaptic pathways - including hippocampal structures involved in the neurofeedback task. Neurofeedback may be a tool for rapid modulation and reinforcement of these anatomical connections, leading to clinical improvement.
Not gone away: how domestic terrorism impacts multinationals in foreign markets
Authors: Owens Martin David , Johnson Elizabeth 
Published: March 2024

Purpose
The paper aims to understand how state and non-state domestic terrorism impacts MNEs in foreign markets. Despite the burgeoning literature on terrorism within international business (IB), most research has focused on international terrorism, or terrorism generally. Consequently, there has been limited research examining how domestic or local based terrorism impacts foreign firms.

Design/methodology/approach
This is a conceptual paper.

Findings
Domestic terrorism is the most common form of terrorism in the world today and involves the state and non-state actors. Non-state domestic terrorism can be low intensity or high intensity. High intensity non-state-domestic terrorism typically involves regular and protracted political violence, along with inter-communal violence. This can expose MNEs to considerable operational, governance and legitimacy pressures.

Originality/value
The paper contributes to the gap in IB terrorism research with regards domestic or local based terrorism. Drawing on IB theory and critical terrorism research, the paper addresses the nature and impact of domestic terrorism within IB. The authors’ paper shows the operational, governance and legitimacy pressures of both state and non-state domestic terrorism for MNEs in host markets. While most IB scholars consider the threat of non-state terrorism for international firms, this study shows how domestic state terrorism benefits and constrains foreign firms.
Investigating the multifaceted dynamics of cybersecurity practices and their impact on the quality of e-government services: evidence from the KSA
Authors: Al-Hawamleh Ahmad Mtair 
Published: March 2024

Purpose
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) is embracing digital transformation and e-government services, aiming to improve efficiency, accessibility and citizen-centricity. Nonetheless, the country faces challenges such as evolving cyber threats. The purpose of this study is to investigate the factors influencing cybersecurity practices to ensure the reliability and security of e-government services.

Design/methodology/approach
This paper investigates the multifaceted dynamics of cybersecurity practices and their impact on the quality and effectiveness of e-government services. Five key factors explored include organizational culture, technology infrastructure, adherence to standards and regulations, employee training and awareness and financial investment in cybersecurity. This study used a quantitative method to gather data from 320 participants. The researcher collected 285 completed questionnaires, excluding unusable or incomplete responses, and analyzed the final data set using partial least squares structural equation modeling.

Findings
The findings show that financial investment in cybersecurity, employee training and awareness and adherence to cybersecurity regulations significantly influence the adoption of robust cybersecurity practices. However, the relationship between organizational culture and cybersecurity practices is less straightforward. The research establishes a strong positive correlation between cybersecurity practices and e-government service quality, highlighting the role of security in fostering public trust and user satisfaction and meeting the evolving needs of citizens and businesses.

Originality/value
This research contributes valuable empirical evidence to the fields of e-government and cybersecurity, offering insights that can inform evidence-based policy decisions and resource allocation. By understanding the nuanced dynamics at play, Saudi Arabia is better poised to fortify its digital governance infrastructure and provide secure, high-quality e-government services to its constituents.
Investigation on information security awareness based on KAB model: the moderating role of age and education level
Authors: Nguyen Binh Huu , Le Huong Nguyen Quynh 
Published: March 2024

Purpose
This study aims to investigate the moderating role of sociodemographic factors, specifically age and education level, in the knowledge-attitude-behavior (KAB) model concerning information security awareness (ISA) amid growing technological threats.

Design/methodology/approach
This study uses a survey methodology, collecting data from 400 working individuals in Vietnam, to test the applicability of the KAB model and evaluate the moderating effects of age and education on the model’s established relationships. In addition, the theoretical model and hypotheses were evaluated using the partial least squares structural equation model (PLS-SEM) approach.

Findings
This research confirms the relationships posited in the KAB model. Notably, it shows that younger employees showcase a more positive attitude and behavior toward information security compared with their older counterparts. In addition, higher education levels strengthen the positive association between information security knowledge and attitude. The findings underscore the imperative for organizations to consider sociodemographic variables when formulating strategies to enhance ISA.

Originality/value
This study extends the KAB model by exploring the impact of sociodemographic factors, focusing on age and education in ISA. Overcoming the oversight in current literature, particularly in the context of technological threats, the research uses PLS-SEM and targets a specific demographic in Vietnam.
Subjective health status and health literacy of African refugees and asylum seekers in Germany: a cross-sectional survey
Authors: Bäumel Anika Christin , Sauter Alexandra , Weber Andrea , Leitzmann Michael , Jochem Carmen 
Published: March 2024

Purpose
Many refugees and asylum seekers in Germany experience a high disease burden and low health literacy. The current study aims to focus on assessing these issues among African refugees and asylum seekers in Bavaria, Germany. The authors evaluated their self-perceived health status and health literacy, and identified barriers and gaps in health care utilization, intending to improve health care services for this group.

Design/methodology/approach
The authors conducted a cross-sectional, questionnaire-based study involving 69 refugees and asylum seekers from Ethiopia, Eritrea and Nigeria. The authors performed descriptive and exploratory statistical analyses.

Findings
The authors found a substantial disease burden in the early stages of resettlement in Germany, particularly mental health symptoms (53.6%) and musculoskeletal problems (47.8%). Challenges in health literacy were observed, such as difficulties in understanding health information and managing emergency situations. Access to interpreters was limited, and understanding treatment certificates was more challenging than using electronic health cards, with 18.2% of participants reporting denial of medical treatment.

Practical implications
These findings highlight the need for early and tailored health support for refugees, with a particular focus on mental health. Efforts should be made to reduce language barriers and improve navigational skills within the health-care system, particularly in emergency situations. Addressing the restricted access to health care and bureaucratic obstacles is crucial for improved health outcomes among refugees.

Originality/value
To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this research is the first to specifically explore the self-reported health status and health literacy of African refugees and asylum seekers in Bavaria, Germany, providing valuable insights into the unique healthcare challenges of this often underrepresented and overlooked population.
A positive psychological approach for improving the well-being and performance of employees
Authors: David Rajasekhar , Singh Sharda , Mikkilineni Sitamma , Ribeiro Neuza 
Published: March 2024

PurposeToday’s competitive business world presents unanticipated challenges to enterprises worldwide. So, the well-being of the employees may be a sustained competitive edge for corporations in improving employee performance. Positive psychology served as the foundation for this study, investigating the interplay between employee well-being and task performance by incorporating organizational-specific factors like organizational virtuousness (OV) and individual-specific factors such as Psychological Capital (PsyCap).Design/methodology/approachIn total, 639 dyadic responses were gathered from the banking sector, encompassing employees in both private and public banks in India, along with their immediate supervisors. The hypotheses were subsequently examined by applying Structural Equation Modeling (SEM).FindingsOV and PsyCap are considerably associated with the well-being of employees and task performance, according to the findings. Employee well-being mediates the relationships between the perceptions of Organizational Virtuousness (OV) and task performance, as well as between PsyCap and task performance.Research limitations/implicationsThe intense competition and series of scandals in Indian banks urge the introduction of some behavioral precautionary measures. Banks need to understand and intervene in positive organizational behavior and help the employees build strong PsyCap to enhance their well-being and task performance to gain a competitive edge.Originality/valueThe present study integrated Positive Organizational Behavior (POB) and Positive Organizational Scholarship (POS) to enhance work performance.