bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Disease-modifying therapies as positive predictors of quality of life for Sudanese patients with multiple sclerosis: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Omar Eman Saleh , Suliman Hayat M. , Osman Bashier , Abdalla Safa A. , Abdoon Iman Hassan 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
Background
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an immune-mediated, neurodegenerative disease with devastating, disabling, and negative impacts on the patients’ quality of life (QoL). Although MS was not known in Sudan, it seems to be rising in recent years. This is a cross-sectional, hospital-based study aimed at assessing the impact of MS medications on patients’ QoL in neurology clinics in Khartoum City. Sixty-four patients diagnosed with MS were recruited. SF-36 questionnaire was used to assess the patients’ QoL. Data were collected from patients’ records in addition to the hand-delivered questionnaire. Data were analyzed using ANOVA test and logistic regression; p ≤ 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results
The majority of patients were females from north Sudan (92.2%). The mean age was 28.2 ± 6.5. Relapsing–remitting was the most diagnosed MS type (65.6%). Fatigue and urinary incontinence were the most observed symptoms. All patients had vitamin D deficiency (5–20 ng/ml). Disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) were prescribed to 37.5% of patients.
The overall mean QoL was 53.9 ± 14.7 with fair physical and mental health (51.8 ± 19.2 and 57.0 ± 10.9, respectively). Patients on DMTs showed a significantly good QoL compared to azathioprine (p ≤ 0.01), corticosteroids (p ≤ 0.01.), and no medications (p ≤ 001). Azathioprine (OR = 0.12; p ≤ 0.05), corticosteroids (OR = 0.14; p ≤ 0.05) and no treatment (OR = 0.01; p ≤ 0.001) negatively affected MS patients’ QoL when compared to DMTs. Vitamin D supplementation was significantly (p ≤ 0.01) associated with good QoL.

Conclusions
MS was prominent in young females’ descendants of Sudanese northern tribes. DMTs improve the devastating effect of MS on patients’ QoL, and vitamin D supplementation was significantly associated with good QoL of MS patients.
Non-linear plasma protein binding of cannabidiol
Authors: Babayeva Mariana , Srdanovic Iva 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
Background
Cannabidiol is highly bound to plasma proteins. Changes in its protein binding can lead to altered unbound plasma concentrations and result in alteration of pharmacological activity of cannabidiol-containing medications. This research has assessed non-linearity of cannabidiol plasma protein binding and the potential effect of tizoxanide on the binding.

Method
Cannabidiol protein binding was evaluated by ultrafiltration technique. Human plasma was spiked with cannabidiol stock solution to produce samples of various concentrations. For interaction study potential interactant tizoxanide was added in each sample. All samples were processed through Amicon Micropartition system and analyzed by HPLC.

Results
The study has detected cannabidiol binding to borosilicate glass (9%) and polyethylene plastics (15%). In the interaction study the mean protein unbound fraction of cannabidiol was 0.05 (5%), indicating no binding interaction between cannabidiol and tizoxanide since cannabidiol unbound fraction without tizoxanide was also 5%. The cannabidiol fraction unbound was more than 2-fold greater at high concentrations compared to low concentrations.

Conclusion
a). At high concentrations cannabidiol plasma protein binding is non-linear. The non-linearity can affect elimination and medicinal effect of cannabidiol drugs. b). Borosilicate and polyethylene containers should be avoided in formulation, packing and administration of cannabidiol-containing medicines to guarantee correct doses. c). Cannabidiol medications can be co-administered with tizoxanide without caution.
Influence of social capital, market orientation, and technological readiness on researchers’ interactions with companies
Authors: Rossoni André Luis , de Vasconcellos Eduardo Pinheiro Gondim , Sbragia Roberto 
Published: June 2024

AbstractThis study investigates the influence of social capital, market orientation, and technological readiness levels (TRLs) on the intensity of collaboration between researchers from a public research institution in Brazil and companies, and how TRLs moderate this relationship. Using a quantitative approach, we applied structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) to analyze responses from researchers at this institution. The analysis highlights the critical roles of social capital and market orientation in fostering effective R&D interactions. Social capital enhances collaboration through trust and network strength, while market orientation aligns R&D efforts with market needs, ensuring that innovations are both relevant and timely. Importantly, this study explores how technological readiness levels (TRLs) moderate these relationships, offering insights into the varying impact of social capital and market orientation across different stages of technological development. Findings reveal that participation in projects with TRLs 4 to 6, known as the Valley of Death, significantly moderates the impact of market orientation on researchers' interaction intensity with companies, underscoring the importance of considering technological maturity in R&D collaborations. The study is framed within the open innovation approach, emphasizing the importance of leveraging external knowledge and collaborative networks to enhance innovation outcomes. Theoretically, this research extends the existing models of R&D collaboration by illustrating how TRLs modify the effects of social capital and market orientation. Practically, it offers actionable insights for R&D managers and policymakers on structuring environments that foster robust academic–industry partnerships, facilitating the successful transition of innovations from conceptualization to market readiness.
Role of exhaled carbon monoxide in assessment of chronic obstructive airway disease severity
Authors: Gawad Menna Helmy Mohamed Abdel , Morsi Mohamed Galal , Fayiad Hussien 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
Background
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a critical public health issue. Spirometric measurements are used to diagnose chronic obstructive lung disease, as per the guidelines of the GOLD initiative. Post-bronchodilator forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) is a predictor of mortality from COPD and helps to classify the disease’s severity. Smoking contributes to the high levels of exhaled CO. Evidence suggests that the exhaled CO level in COPD patients varies with degree of blockage and can be used to assess treatment response. Estimating the exhaled CO level can help assess airway inflammation and severity of airflow obstruction in individuals with COPD.

Aim
Evaluate role of exhaled CO in assessment of severity of COPD.

Materials and methods
This cross-sectional study included 132 patients who visited the outpatient clinics or were admitted to the Chest Department, Kasr Alainy Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University. The study participants were divided into three groups: group 1 nonsmoker healthy control, group 2 smoker non-COPD, and group 3 smoker COPD which further divided according to GOLD 2023 into mild, moderate, and severe COPD. The smoking status, exhaled CO, and spirometry test including FEV1/FVC and FEV1 were measured for each patient.

Results
Exhaled CO was significantly increased in the smoker group (mean 9.69, SD 3.11) compared to the nonsmoker group (mean 2.19, SD 0.98) with p-value < 0.001. Exhaled CO was also statistically significantly higher in the smoker COPD group (mean 10.45, SD 3.03) compared to the smoker non-COPD group (mean 7.05, SD 1.56) with p-value < 0.001. Although exhaled CO was increased in the severe COPD group compared to the mild and moderate group, there is no statistically significant difference between them.

Conclusion
Exhaled CO is a fast, sensitive, noninvasive, and well-established method test that can be used to identify smokers from nonsmokers with 98.9% sensitivity at 4.5 cutoff value. Also, exhaled CO levels in COPD patients vary with different degrees of airway obstruction.
Effectiveness of supervised versus self-directed rehabilitation for adults aged 50 years and over with ankle fractures: protocol for the AFTER trial
Authors: Keene David J. , Achten Juul , Forde Colin , Png May E. , Grant Richard , Draper Kylea , Appelbe Duncan , Tutton Elizabeth , Peckham Nicholas , Dutton Susan J. , Lamb Sarah E. , Costa Matthew L. 
Published: June 2024

AimsAnkle fractures are common, mainly affecting adults aged 50 years and over. To aid recovery, some patients are referred to physiotherapy, but referral patterns vary, likely due to uncertainty about the effectiveness of this supervised rehabilitation approach. To inform clinical practice, this study will evaluate the effectiveness of supervised versus self-directed rehabilitation in improving ankle function for older adults with ankle fractures.MethodsThis will be a multicentre, parallel-group, individually randomized controlled superiority trial. We aim to recruit 344 participants aged 50 years and older with an ankle fracture treated surgically or non-surgically from at least 20 NHS hospitals. Participants will be randomized 1:1 using a web-based service to supervised rehabilitation (four to six one-to-one physiotherapy sessions of tailored advice and prescribed home exercise over three months), or self-directed rehabilitation (provision of advice and exercise materials that participants will use to manage their recovery independently). The primary outcome is participant-reported ankle-related symptoms and function six months after randomization, measured by the Olerud and Molander Ankle Score. Secondary outcomes at two, four, and six months measure health-related quality of life, pain, physical function, self-efficacy, exercise adherence, complications, and resource use. Due to the nature of the interventions, participants and intervention providers will be unblinded to treatment allocation.ConclusionThis study will assess whether supervised rehabilitation is more effective than self-directed rehabilitation for adults aged 50 years and older after ankle fracture. The results will provide evidence to guide clinical practice. At the time of submission, the trial is currently completing recruitment, and follow-up will be completed in 2024.Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2024;5(6):499–513.
Low loss fiber-coupled volumetric interconnects fabricated via direct laser writing
Authors: Littlefield Alexander J. , Huang Jack , Holley Mason L. , Duggar Nikita B. , Gao Jingxing , Xie Dajie , Richards Corey A. , Silberg Truman , Purakayastha Ujaan , Herr Jesse , Ocier Christian R. , Deng Xiangrui , Wang Xiaoli , Braun Paul V. , Goddard Lynford L. 
Published: June 2024

Photonic integrated circuits (PICs) are vital for high-speed data transmission. However, optical routing is limited in PICs composed of only one or a few stacked planes. Further, coupling losses must be low in deployed systems. Previously, we developed the subsurface controllable refractive index via beam exposure (SCRIBE) technique to write accurate 3D gradient refractive index (GRIN) profiles within a mesoporous silica scaffold. Here, we apply SCRIBE to fabricate low loss, broadband, polarization insensitive, fiber-coupled, single-mode volumetric interconnects that include waveguides traversing arbitrary 3D paths. By seamlessly integrating mode-matching subsurface lenses and GRIN waveguide tapers, calibrating for positional writing errors, implementing multipass exposure, automating alignment, and switching to antireflection coated fibers, we reduced the insertion loss for a fiber-PIC-fiber interconnect from 50 to 2.14 dB, or 1.47 dB, excluding the fiber array’s loss. Further, we establish an upper bound of 0.45 dB loss per coupler. We report quality factors of 27,000 and 77,000 and bending losses of 6 and 3 dB/cm for 15 and 30 µm radii microrings, respectively. We also demonstrate Bézier escalators, polarization-rotating and polarization-splitting interconnects, and a seven-channel 25 µm pitch volumetric interconnect. The SCRIBE platform presents a clear path toward realizing 3D PICs with unique functionality.
Rapid appraisal of liver diseases using transient elastography, abdominal ultrasound, and microbiology in Côte d’Ivoire: A single-center study
Authors: Leibenguth Marie T. , Coulibaly Jean T. , Silué Kigbafori D. , N’Gbesso Yves K. , El Wahed Ahmed Abd , Utzinger Jürg , Becker Sören L. , Schneitler Sophie 
Published: June 2024

Background
Liver diseases of infectious and non-infectious etiology cause considerable morbidity and mortality, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). However, data on the prevalence of liver diseases and underlying risk factors in LMICs are scarce. The objective of this study was to elucidate the occurrence of infectious diseases among individuals with chronic liver damage in a rural setting of Côte d’Ivoire.

Methodology
In 2021, we screened 696 individuals from four villages in the southern part of Côte d’Ivoire for hepatic fibrosis and steatosis, employing transient elastography (TE) and controlled attenuation parameter (CAP). We classified CAP ≥248 dB/m as steatosis, TE ≥7.2 kPa as fibrosis, and did subgroup analysis for participants with TE ranging from 7.2 kPa to 9.1 kPa. Clinical and microbiologic characteristics were compared to an age- and sex-matched control group (TE <6.0 kPa; n = 109). Stool samples were subjected to duplicate Kato-Katz thick smears for diagnosis of Schistosoma mansoni. Venous blood samples were examined for hepatitis B and hepatitis C virus. Additionally, an abdominal ultrasound examination was performed.

Principal findings
Among 684 individuals with valid TE measurements, TE screening identified hepatic pathologies in 149 participants (17% with fibrosis and 6% with steatosis). 419 participants were included for further analyses, of which 261 had complete microbiologic analyses available. The prevalence of S. mansoni, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C were 30%, 14%, and 7%, respectively. Logistic regression analysis revealed higher odds for having TE results between 7.2 kPa and 9.1 kPa in individuals with S. mansoni infection (odds ratio [OR] = 3.02, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.58–5.76, P = 0.001), while HCV infection (OR = 5.02, 95% CI = 1.72–14.69, P = 0.003) and steatosis (OR = 4.62, 95% CI = 1.60–13.35, P = 0.005) were found to be risk factors for TE ≥9.2 kPa.

Conclusions/significance
Besides viral hepatitis, S. mansoni also warrants consideration as a pathogen causing liver fibrosis in Côte d’Ivoire. In-depth diagnostic work-up among individuals with abnormal TE findings might be a cost-effective public health strategy.
Implementation of Pelvic Floor Rehabilitation after rectal cancer surgery: A qualitative study guided by the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR)
Authors: Bosch N. M. , Kalkdijk-Dijkstra A. J. , Broens P. M. A. , van Westreenen H. L. , Pierie J. P. E. N. , Klarenbeek B. R. , van der Heijden J. A. G. ,   on behalf of the FORCE trial group
Published: June 2024

Background
Pelvic Floor Rehabilitation (PFR) is effective in a selection of patients with low anterior resection syndrome (LARS) after rectal cancer surgery. This study aimed to identify barriers and enablers to prepare for successful implementation into clinical practice.

Methods
A qualitative study was performed, guided by the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR). Individual interviews (n = 27) and two focus groups were conducted to synthesize the perspectives of rectal cancer patients, pelvic floor (PF) physiotherapists, and medical experts.

Results
Barriers were found to be the absence of guidelines about LARS treatment, underdeveloped network care, suboptimal patient information, and expectation management upfront to PFR. Financial status is frequently a barrier because insurance companies do not always reimburse PFR. Enablers were the current level of evidence for PFR, the positive relationship between patients and PF physiotherapists, and the level of self-motivation by patients.

Conclusion
The factors identified in our study play a crucial role in ensuring a successful implementation of PFR after rectal cancer surgery.
Effectiveness of functional feed ingredients to enhance gill disease in Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar, L.)
Authors: Vitale Matteo , Hoel Eirik , Yousaf Muhammad Naveed , Kambestad Martha Amalie , Mullins Julia , Lagos Leidy , Berge Kjetil , McGurk Charles , Pampanin Daniela Maria 
Published: June 2024

Herein, the feasibility of in vitro methods for screening the qualities of functional feed ingredients using the fish cell line RTgill-W1 and the culture of Paramoeba perurans was investigated. Five functional ingredients (arginine, β-glucan, vitamin C, and two phytogenic feed additives) were selected to investigate their effects on cell viability and reactive oxygen species production. Three of them (arginine and two phytogenic feed additives) were additionally tested to assess their potential amoebicidal activity. As these functional ingredients are the core of a commercial feed (Protec Gill, Skretting AS), beneficial effects were further assessed in a field trial using Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar), affected by complex gill disease (CGD).
Threshold levels of the ingredient concentrations were identified through RTgill-W1 cell viability assay. High concentrations of all tested ingredients, except vitamin C, resulted in a significant reduction of cell viability. Different effects on reactive oxygen species production were observed among the ingredients. Arginine and two phytogenic feed additives exhibited also pronounced amoebicidal activity at the highest tested concentrations.
In the field study, three weeks of feeding Protec Gill slowed the disease progression, and also led to a significant improvement in gill tissue conditions. Significant reductions of epithelial and mucous hyperplasia, predominant symptoms in fish affected by CGD, and pathogen load, particularly epitheliocystis associated with Ca. Branchiomonas cysticola, one of the major contributors of CGD, were observed. These positive outcomes underscore the potential of functional feed ingredients in ameliorating gill diseases and enhance fish health.
RTgill-W1 cell line assays proved to be effective tools for screening functional ingredients, providing valuable insights into optimal concentration ranges. Implementing an in vitro cell-based approach, with additional assays and cell line types, it’s a promising alternative to reduce the number of animals used during fish trials, for a more sustainable aquaculture practice.
Association between illegal drug use and cigarette smoking among Ethiopian students: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Daba Chala , Gebrehiwot Mesfin , Debela Sisay Abebe , Desye Belay , Tefera Yonatal Mesfin 
Published: June 2024

Introduction
Cigarette smoking is a persistent public health problem as it is a risk factor for many diseases. Previous studies on the role of illegal drug use in cigarette smoking have yielded disparate and inconclusive results, hindering the development of effective intervention strategies to address this issue. Therefore, this systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to estimate the pooled prevalence of cigarette smoking and its associated factors, with a specific focus on the influence of illegal drug use among students in Ethiopia.

Methods
We conducted a comprehensive search of international databases, including PubMed, Cochrane Library, Science Direct, CINAHL, African Journals Online, HINARI, Global Health, and Google and Google Scholar. Grey literature was also identified from various university digital libraries. The study followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis Protocols (PRISMA) guidelines. Due to the high heterogeneity among the included studies (I2 = 98.6%; p-value <0.001), we employed a random-effects model with a 95% confidence interval (CI) to estimate the pooled effect using STATA 14 software. The publication bias was assessed using a statistical Egger regression test.

Results
A total of 22 studies involving 18,144 students met the eligibility criteria for this systematic review and meta-analysis. The pooled prevalence of lifetime and current cigarette smoking among students in Ethiopia was 13.8% (95% CI: 9.90–17.82) and 9.61% (95% CI: 7.19–12.03), respectively. Students who used illegal drugs were twenty-three times more likely to smoke cigarettes compared to their counterparts (OR = 23.57, 95% CI: 10.87–51.1). Living in urban settings (OR = 2.9; 95% CI: 1.15–7.28) and the habit of alcohol consumption (OR = 4.79; 95% CI: 1.57–14.64) were also identified as factors associated with cigarette smoking.

Conclusions
We found that more than one in eight students in Ethiopia have engaged in lifetime cigarette smoking. Notably, students who used illegal drugs exhibited a significantly higher likelihood of cigarette smoking. In light of these findings, it is imperative to implement comprehensive public health interventions that target illegal drug use, cigarette smoking, and alcohol consumption, with a particular emphasis on urban residents.
Managing Mangrove Resources in Conflict of Interest Zones in Bangka Island's Eastern Coast
Authors: Bidayani Endang , Vieira Lucas O. , Valen Fitri Sil 
Published: June 2024

The east coast of Bangka Island is an area prone to conflicts of interest, due to the use of the coast for tin mining and fishing by traditional fishermen. The threat of destruction of mangrove forests due to community tin mining on the east coast of Bangka Island has caused a decline in the crab population as the main catch of local fishermen.The study aimed to analyze efforts to manage mangrove ecosystems in conflict zones. The study was conducted from June to October 2023. The primary data was obtained through interviews fishermen community, direct observation, and documentation. The data analysis methods employed utilize a descriptive approach. Based on the survey results, the impact of tin mining activities causes a decrease in the area of mangrove forests. Reporting that the income of traditional fishermen in the productive fishing season is around IDR 65,000/day or IDR 980,000/month. Meanwhile, in the bad season, the income of traditional fishermen is IDR 13,000/day or IDR 205,000/month. Efforts to manage mangrove resources in conflict zones include mangrove restoration and mangrove forest educational tourism. The government's enforcement of regulations regarding the prohibition of tin mining in mangrove forest areas must be more massive so that mangrove resources remain sustainable. The government must significantly enhance the enforcement of legislation pertaining to the prohibition of tin mining in mangrove forest regions in order to ensure the long-term sustainability of mangrove resources.