bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Statistical analysis plan for cluster randomised trial to evaluate a community-level complementary food safety and hygiene and nutrition intervention in Mali: the MaaCiwara study
Authors: Quinn Laura , Martin James , Asamane Evans , Manaseki-Holland Semira , Lilford Richard J. , Traore Lacina , Thompson Jacqueline , Watson Samuel I. , Hemming Karla 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Background
Diarrheal disease is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in under-fives in many low- and middle-income countries. Changes in food safety, hygiene practices, and nutrition around the weaning period may reduce the risk of disease and improve infant development. The MaaCiwara study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a community-based educational intervention designed to improve food safety and hygiene behaviours, as well as child nutrition. This update article describes the statistical analysis plan for the MaaCiwara study in detail.

Methods and design
The MaaCiwara study is a parallel group, two-arm, superiority cluster randomised controlled trial with baseline measures, involving 120 clusters of rural and urban communities. These clusters are randomised to either receive the community-based behaviour change intervention or to the control group. The study participants will be mother–child pairs, with children aged between 6 and 36 months. Data collection involves a day of observation and interviews with each participating mother–child pair, conducted at baseline, 4 months, and 15 months post-intervention.
The primary analysis aims to estimate the effectiveness of the intervention on changes to complementary food safety and preparation behaviours, food and water contamination, and diarrhoea. The primary outcomes will be analysed generalised linear mixed models, at individual level, accounting for clusters and rural/urban status to estimate the difference in outcomes between the intervention and control groups. Secondary outcomes include maternal autonomy, enteric infection, nutrition, child anthropometry, and development scores. In addition, structural equation analysis will be conducted to examine the causal relationships between the different outcomes.

Trial registration
International Standard Randomised Controlled Trial Number (ISRCTN) register: ISRCTN14390796. Registered on 13 December 2021.
Assessing the therapeutic potential of long-chain isomaltooligosaccharides in diabetic and hyperlipidemic rats
Authors: Reamtong Onrapak , Waeonukul Rattiya , Prangthip Pattaneeya 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Background
The global rise in diabetes prevalence necessitates effective treatments. Rats, mimicking physiological changes seen in Type 2 diabetes, serve as valuable models for studying metabolic disorders. Natural health supplements, especially prebiotics, are gaining interest for improving metabolic health. Isomaltooligosaccharides (IMOs), classified as functional oligosaccharides and prebiotics, have attracted attention due to their beneficial effects on gut microbiota balance and cholesterol reduction. However, commercial IMOs often contain undesirable sugars, leading to the development of long-chain IMOs with enhanced prebiotic properties.

Methods
This study assessed the therapeutic potential of long-chain IMOs derived from Bacillus subtilis strain AP-1 compared to inulin, a widely recognized prebiotic, in addressing hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia in rats.

Results
IMOs treatment effectively reduced blood sugar and triglyceride levels similarly to inulin supplementation. Proteomic analysis revealed changes in hepatic protein profiles, with upregulated pathways including glutathione metabolism, oxidative phosphorylation, and pentose and glucuronate interconversion, while pathways related to fatty acid and amino acid biosynthesis exhibited downregulation. These results suggest promising therapeutic effects of IMOs treatment on diabetes and hyperlipidemia by influencing key metabolic pathways.

Conclusions
Our findings highlight the potential of long-chain IMOs as targeted interventions for metabolic disorders, warranting further investigation into their clinical applicability and mechanisms of action.
Effect of physical activity for reducing anxiety symptoms in older adults: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Goodarzi Saba , Teymouri Athar Mohammad Mobin , Beiky Maryam , Fathi Hanieh , Nakhaee Zahra , Omran Samira Parvizi , Shafiee Arman 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Background
Anxiety symptoms in older adults can significantly impact their well-being. Physical activity is increasingly recognized as a potential intervention to alleviate anxiety in this population. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to explore the impact of physical activity on anxiety symptoms in geriatric individuals.

Methods
A systematic search was conducted in MEDLINE (via PubMed), Scopus, and Embase databases until November 29, 2023. Two independent reviewers screened articles based on predefined inclusion criteria.

Results
Eleven randomized controlled trials were included. These trials, involving 770 geriatric participants, demonstrated a significant overall effect of physical activity on reducing anxiety symptoms (SMD =-0.60, 95% CI: -0.88 to -0.32). Subgroup analysis based on type of intervention and duration of follow-up was performed. The results showed all types of exercises reduced anxiety symptoms compared to the control group. Furthermore, those studies with shorter follow-up (less than 10 weeks) did not show a statistically significant reduction in anxiety symptoms. Moderate heterogeneity was observed (I2 = 67%). Sensitivity analyses confirmed the robustness of the overall effect size. Funnel plot inspection and Egger’s test (p = 0.36) suggested no signs of publication bias or small study effects.

Conclusion
This meta-analysis provides strong evidence that physical activity significantly reduces anxiety symptoms in older adults. The study highlights the differential effects of cardio and strength exercises and underscores the high quality of evidence supporting the anxiolytic benefits of physical activity in geriatric populations.
Palinacousis in amyloidosis: exploring the hallucinatory phenomenon in brain pathology—a case report
Authors: Martins-Correia João , Sousa Luísa 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Background
Hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis, caused by transthyretin gene mutations, progresses with systemic impact and often presents peripheral neuropathy. Recent research reveals central nervous system involvement, marked by leptomeningeal amyloid accumulation and transient focal neurological episodes displaying cortical dysfunction.

Case presentation
A 47-year-old Caucasian man with hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis presented with motor aphasia, right hemiparesis, fever, and an altered state of consciousness. Tests ruled out stroke or infection. While improving, the patient reported an ongoing auditory repetition phenomenon for 48 hours despite efforts to shift focus or introduce new stimuli.

Conclusion
This represents the first known case report documenting palinacousis in hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis attributed to central nervous system involvement. This case highlights the complexities in assessment and management of patients when neurological and psychiatric symptoms overlap.
Unveiling the Nexus: the crucial role of competitive advantage in bridging entrepreneurial marketing practices and sustainable firm performance in small and medium enterprises
Authors: Tolossa Abebe Techan , Singh Manjit , Gautam Raj Kumar 
Published: July 2024

AbstractStudies about entrepreneurial marketing linked with competitive advantage and sustainability in SMEs are limited in the existing literature. This study therefore aimed to investigate the relationship between entrepreneurial marketing dimensions, focusing on the mediating role of competitive advantage, in ensuring the sustainability of firm performance. Descriptive research design combined with explanatory research to examine the relationships; and stratified sampling with simple random sampling techniques to select the enterprises were used. Data from 387 SMEs in Oromia, Ethiopia were collected and analyzed using structural equation modeling (SEM). The findings indicated significant connections among entrepreneurial marketing practices, competitive advantage, and sustainability of firm performance, with competitive advantage partially mediating the relationships. The finding also underlined SMEs that are entrepreneurial, strategic, and socially responsible are best positioned for long-term success. Practical implications suggested aligning marketing practices with overall strategies, optimizing resource usage, and enhancing innovation to improve competitive advantage and sustain firm performance. From a social perspective, embracing sustainable practices could positively impact, employment, environmental responsibility, economic stability, and consumer perception. The study offers valuable insights for academia, policymakers, and practitioners.
The effect of oral capsules containing Ocimum basilicum leaf extract on menopausal symptoms in women: a triple-blind randomized clinical trial
Authors: karimi Fatemeh Zahra , Hosseini Hamideh , Mazlom Seyed reza , Rakhshandeh Hassan 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Background
Menopause, characterized by various physical and mental changes, is primarily caused by hormonal fluctuations, resulting in numerous complications. Recently, herbal treatments have gained significant attention for their minimal side effects compared to chemical drugs. This study aimed to investigate the effects of oral capsules containing Ocimum basilicum leaf extract (OBLE) on menopausal symptoms.

Methods
This placebo-controlled clinical trial study was conducted in 2020. The research focused on 60 menopausal women referred to Mashhad health centers. Eligible participants were administered either an OBLE 500 mg capsule or a placebo daily for 1 month. Menopause symptoms were evaluated using the Menopause Rating Scale (MRS) before, two weeks, and one month after the intervention. Data were analyzed using SPSS21, independent t, Mann–Whitney, and Friedman tests. A significance level of p < 0.05 was considered significant.

Results
The independent t-test indicated that the mean (SD) scores of menopausal symptoms in both the OBLE and placebo groups were initially similar before the intervention (P = 0.141). Two weeks after the intervention, the menopausal symptom scores were 9.5 ± 3.5 and 11.2 ± 5.6 in the OBLE and placebo groups, respectively (P = 0.163, df = 58, t = 1.4). After one month, the menopausal symptom scores were 6.9 ± 0.3 in the OBLE group and 11.26 ± 0.6 in the placebo group (P = 0.001, df = 58, t = 3.4). This indicates a significant difference between the two groups one month after the intervention, compared to before and two weeks after the intervention. Additionally, there was a significant difference in the scores of the physical and somato-vegetative dimension between the intervention and placebo groups two weeks and one month after the intervention (P < 0.05).

Conclusion
The study results suggested that taking OBLE capsules led to a decrease in the scores of menopausal symptoms. This indicates that OBLE can be considered as a safe and cost-effective medicinal plant for alleviating menopausal symptoms among women.
Identification of novel immune-related signatures for keloid diagnosis and treatment: insights from integrated bulk RNA-seq and scRNA-seq analysis
Authors: Xiao Kui , Wang Sisi , Chen Wenxin , Hu Yiping , Chen Ziang , Liu Peng , Zhang Jinli , Chen Bin , Zhang Zhi , Li Xiaojian 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Background
Keloid is a disease characterized by proliferation of fibrous tissue after the healing of skin tissue, which seriously affects the daily life of patients. However, the clinical treatment of keloids still has limitations, that is, it is not effective in controlling keloids, resulting in a high recurrence rate. Thus, it is urgent to identify new signatures to improve the diagnosis and treatment of keloids.

Method
Bulk RNA seq and scRNA seq data were downloaded from the GEO database. First, we used WGCNA and MEGENA to co-identify keloid/immune-related DEGs. Subsequently, we used three machine learning algorithms (Randomforest, SVM-RFE, and LASSO) to identify hub immune-related genes of keloid (KHIGs) and investigated the heterogeneous expression of KHIGs during fibroblast subpopulation differentiation using scRNA-seq. Finally, we used HE and Masson staining, quantitative reverse transcription-PCR, western blotting, immunohistochemical, and Immunofluorescent assay to investigate the dysregulated expression and the mechanism of retinoic acid in keloids.

Results
In the present study, we identified PTGFR, RBP5, and LIF as KHIGs and validated their diagnostic performance. Subsequently, we constructed a novel artificial neural network molecular diagnostic model based on the transcriptome pattern of KHIGs, which is expected to break through the current dilemma faced by molecular diagnosis of keloids in the clinic. Meanwhile, the constructed IG score can also effectively predict keloid risk, which provides a new strategy for keloid prevention. Additionally, we observed that KHIGs were also heterogeneously expressed in the constructed differentiation trajectories of fibroblast subtypes, which may affect the differentiation of fibroblast subtypes and thus lead to dysregulation of the immune microenvironment in keloids. Finally, we found that retinoic acid may treat or alleviate keloids by inhibiting RBP5 to differentiate pro-inflammatory fibroblasts (PIF) to mesenchymal fibroblasts (MF), which further reduces collagen secretion.

Conclusion
In summary, the present study provides novel immune signatures (PTGFR, RBP5, and LIF) for keloid diagnosis and treatment, and identifies retinoic acid as potential anti-keloid drugs. More importantly, we provide a new perspective for understanding the interactions between different fibroblast subtypes in keloids and the remodeling of their immune microenvironment.
Chronicity of self-harming behaviors among adolescent teenage girls living in refugee settlements in Northern Uganda
Authors: Kaggwa Mark Mohan , Abaatyo Joan , Otika Donald , Pebolo Pebalo Francis , Bongomin Felix 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Background
Self-harming ideations demand targeted research due to their persistent nature, especially among female adolescents within refugee populations who face unique challenges that can exacerbate self-harming tendencies. This study aimed to assess the factors associated with self-harming ideations chronicity among female teenagers living in refugee settlement in Northern Uganda.

Method
This cross-sectional study used a pretested questionnaire to assess self-harming ideations and other demographic characteristics. Ordinal logistic regression was used to determine factors associated with chronicity of self-harm ideations.

Results
Of 385 participants, the prevalence of self-harming ideations was 4.2% (n = 16) for acute, 8% (n = 31) for subacute, and 3.1% (n = 12) for chronic. The likelihood of having more chronic self-harming ideations increased with having ever been pregnant (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 3.78, 95% Confidence Interval [CI] = 1.57–9.08). However, having a spouse as the family head reduced the likelihood of having more chronic self-harming ideations (aOR = 0.19, 95% CI = 0.04–0.95).

Conclusions
The persistence of self-harming thoughts among female teenagers in Northern Ugandan refugee settlements varies. Pregnancy history is associated with a higher chance of prolonged self-harming thoughts while having a spouse as the family’s head is linked with a lower likelihood. Examining different demographic and familial elements when addressing the mental well-being of female teenage refugees is vital. It stresses the necessity for customized interventions and support networks targeting the reduction of self-harm behaviors among this vulnerable group.
The pulmonary-vascular-stump filling defect on CT post lung tumor resection: a predictor of cancer progression
Authors: Ni Lei , Wang Qihui , Wang Yilong , Du Yaqi , Sun Zhenggang , Fan Guoguang , Li Ce , Wang Guan 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Background
To explore the pulmonary-vascular-stump filling-defect on CT and investigate its association with cancer progression.

Methods
Records in our institutional database from 2018 to 2022 were retrospectively analyzed to identify filling-defects in the pulmonary-vascular-stump after lung cancer resection and collect imaging and clinical data of patients.

Results
Among the 1714 patients analyzed, 95 cases of filling-defects in the vascular stump after lung cancer resection were identified. After excluding lost-to-follow-up cases, a total of 77 cases were included in the final study. Morphologically, the filling-defects were dichotomized as 46 convex-shape and 31 concave-shape cases. Concave defects exhibited a higher incidence of increase compared to convex defects (51.7% v. 9.4%, P = 0.001). Among 61 filling defects in the pulmonary arterial stump, four (6.5%) increasing concave defects showed the nuclide concentration on PET and extravascular extension. The progression-free survival (PFS) time differed significantly among the concave, convex, and non-filling-defect groups (log-rank P < 0.0001), with concave defects having the shortest survival time. Multivariate Cox proportional hazards analysis indicated that the shape of filling-defects independently predicted PFS in early onset on CT (HR: 0.46; 95% CI: 0.39–1.99; P = 0.04). In follow-ups, the growth of filling-effects was an independent predictor of PFS (HR: 0.26; 95% CI: 0.11–0.65; P = 0.004).

Conclusions
Certain filling-defects in the pulmonary-arterial-stump post lung tumor resection exhibit malignant growth. In the early onset of filling-defects on CT, the concave-shape independently predicted cancer-progression, while during the subsequent follow-up, the growth of filling-defects could be used independently to forecast cancer-progression.
Accuracy of computer-guided implant surgery in partially edentulous patients: a prospective observational study
Authors: Chrabieh Emile , Hanna Christine , Mrad Stephanie , Rameh Stephanie , Bassil Joseph , Zaarour Joseph 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to evaluate the amount of distortion using computer-guided implant surgery with 3D printed surgical guides in limited edentulous spaces.

Materials and methods
25 bone level self-tapping implants (Straumann® BL and BLT) were randomly inserted in either distal or intercalary posterior mandibular edentulism using a fully digital protocol and 3D printed surgical guides. Amount of inaccuracy was evaluated after superimposing the 3 coordinates of virtually planned and final implant images, which were obtained using intra-oral scans and scan bodies. Four evaluation parameters were considered: origo-displacement, error depth, apical displacement and angle between the planned and the placed implant.

Results
The average of distortion was 0.71 mm for the origo-displacement, 0.36 mm for the error depth, 0.52 mm for the horizontal displacement and 3.34º for the error angle.

Conclusion
The major reason of exclusion was CBCT artifacts. Results of this study were aligned with the results of previous studies concerning partially edentulous spaces. CAD/CAM manufacturing process did not result in significant distortion whilst the biggest part of distortions originated from the surgical process. The learning curve in computer-guided implant surgery presented an important source of inaccuracy.
Examining time–frequency quantile dependence between green bond and green equity markets
Authors: Hasan Md. Bokhtiar , Uddin Gazi Salah , Ali Md. Sumon , Rashid Md. Mamunur , Park Donghyun , Kang Sang Hoon 
Published: July 2024

AbstractIn the context of the rapidly growing demand for green investments and the need to combat climate change, this study contributes to the emerging literature on green investments by exploring the time–frequency connectedness between green bonds (GBs) and green equities. Specifically, we examine the degree of connection between GBs and green equities, the extent to which these markets influence each other, and which one is the primary net transmitter versus the net receiver of shocks under diverse market conditions. To accomplish these objectives, we use the wavelet-based Quantile-on-Quantile (QQ), dynamic conditional correlation (DCC), portfolio implications, and Quantile VAR approaches. The results show that GBs and green equities have a strong positive connection, depending on time and frequency domains. However, a negative association between GBs and green equities is observed during periods of crisis, highlighting GBs’ ability to hedge green equity portfolios. The portfolio strategies demonstrate that investors require to invest in the Green Economy equity and S&P GB portfolio to reach the highest level of hedging effectiveness. The findings further imply that the Global Water Equity Index transmits the highest spillover to other green assets, while the Green Economy Equity Index receives the most spillover from other assets. The pairwise volatility connectivity reveals that most pairs have minimal quantile dependence, indicating the potential for diversification across the GB and green equity pairs. These findings have significant implications for investors and policymakers concerned with green investments and climate change mitigation.