bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Total flavonoids isolated from Eucommia ulmoides can alleviate bone loss and regulate intestinal microbiota in ovariectomized rats
Authors: Yin Baocang , Yang Mingzhen , Wang Bowen , Zhang Yun , Li Ningli , Li Qin , Li Yingying , Xian Cory J. , Li Tiejun , Zhai Yuankun
Published: February 2025

Ethnopharmacological relevance

Eucommia ulmoides, recognized as a traditional Chinese medicinal herb, can tonify liver and kidney and strengthen bones and muscles. Modern pharmacological research has proved that E. ulmoides could prohibit the occurrence of osteoporosis and arthritis.

Aim

To investigate the effect and action mechanism of total flavonoids isolated from the leaves of E. ulmoides (TFEL) on bone loss in ovariectomized (OVX) rats, and to study its effect on intestinal flora.

Materials and methods

The 3-month-old female rats were randomly divided into six groups: sham operation group, OVX model group, estradiol group, TFEL low (TFEL-L) (50), mid (-M) (100) and high (-H) (200 mg/kg/d) dose groups. After 13 weeks of treatment, the rats were sacrificed to measure bone turnover markers, related tissue biochemical indices, microstructure parameters, and osteoclastogenesis promotor RANKL and inhibitor OPG expression levels. Additionally, fecal samples were obtained for high-throughput sequencing to analyze the intestinal flora.

Results

Oral administration of TFEL for 13 weeks increased the serum level of bone formation marker PINP and decreased the level of bone resorption marker NTX-I. The femoral microstructure parameters of the TFEL-M and TFEL-H groups were significantly improved compared with the OVX group, which were also confirmed by H&E histological staining. High-throughput sequencing indicated that TFEL may regulate the composition of intestinal flora and intestinal microecology.

Conclusion

TFEL can prevent osteoporosis in OVX rats and has no toxic side effects. Meanwhile, TFEL can increase the diversity and improve the composition of intestinal flora in OVX rats.
Optimization of extraction and enrichment process of cannabidiol from industrial hemp and evaluation of its bioactivity
Authors: Wu Junkai , Zhang Xiaomeng , Liu Xiaoqing , Sheng Zunlai , Hu Jianping , Zhang Feiyan
Published: February 2025

Introduction

The Cannabis Sativa L., a perennial dioecious herb renowned for its industrial applications, serves as the source of hemp. Cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychotropic compound derived from industrial hemp, has garnered considerable interest due to its promising therapeutic potential.

Methods

The extraction parameters for CBD from industrial hemp were optimized using the Box-Behnken design and response surface methodology (RSM). The purification process involved characterizing the penetration and desorption profiles of CBD on HPD-100 resin. The in vitro antibacterial activity was assessed by determining the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. Antioxidant properties were evaluated using DPPH and ABTS assays, as well as an iron-reducing ability test.

Results

After optimization, the extraction rate of CBD reached 0.26 ± 0.02%. The use of HP-100 resin in the purification process resulted in a significant enrichment of CBD content, which was 4.2 times higher than that of the crude extract, with a recovery rate of 83.13%. The MIC against S. aureus was found to be 5 mg/mL, while no inhibitory effect was observed against E. coli. The IC50 values for the DPPH and ABTS assays were 0.1875 mg/mL and 2.988 mg/mL, respectively, indicating the potent antioxidant capacity of CBD. Additionally, CBD demonstrated a strong iron-reducing ability.

Conclusion

These findings contribute to the development of CBD for broader applications in various industries, highlighting its potential as a valuable compound in health and wellness sectors.
The regulation of tobacco growth under preceding crop planting: insights from soil quality, microbial communities, and metabolic profiling
Authors: Zhao Peiyan , Zhou Houfa , Liao Xiaolin , Zhao Leifeng , Zheng Yuanxian , Xiong Tiane , Zhang Gaorun , Jiang Sirong , Wang Jiming , He Yuansheng , Li Jiangtao , Zhu Jieying , Zhang Yongjun , Li Yanrun , Nian Fuzhao , Liu Di
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Specific microorganisms and metabolites in soil play key roles in regulating organismal behavior. Currently, the effects of different preceding crops on the rhizosphere soil quality of flue-cured tobacco remain unclear.

Methods

Four treatments were compared in the study: fallow + tobacco (CK), maize + tobacco (T1), rapeseed + tobacco (T2), and wheat + tobacco (T3).

Results and discussion

Results showed that preceding crops significantly enhanced soil nutrient levels and improved tobacco growth by altering rhizosphere metabolites and microbial community structure. Previous cultivation of maize and rapeseed significantly promoted tobacco growth, rapeseed and wheat cultivation enhanced the diversity of soil bacterial communities, and notably decreased the abundance of urea-degrading bacteria. In contrast, the preceding crop of maize reduced plant pathogenic fungi and promoted positive microbial interactions. Metabolomics analysis showed that different preceding crops altered lipids, organic acids, flavonoids, alkaloids, and terpenoids, enhancing secondary metabolite synthesis pathways in soil. Preceding crops regulated rhizosphere metabolites which potentially participated in soil carbon and nitrogen cycling, balancing soil nutrients, and improving tobacco yield. Overall, the three preceding crops altered the composition and function of metabolites and microbial community structures in rhizosphere soil, thereby increased soil nutrient concentration. Both maize and rapeseed cultivation significantly boosted tobacco growth and biomass. These findings offer new insights into the potential interactions between rhizosphere metabolites and microbial communities and strategies of comprehensively regulating tobacco growth.
Comparative analysis of phytochemicals and antioxidant activities in seeds and sprouts of different varieties of radish (Raphanus sativus L.): TOPSIS-entropy weight method
Authors: Guo Caihui , Zhu Yi
Published: February 2025

Many bioactive components in plants are beneficial to health, and their contents in seeds and sprouts are much higher than those in mature parts. This study intended to uncover alterations in nutritional compositions of radish seeds following germination. It also aimed to evaluate the health-promoting potential of both radish (Raphanus sativus L.) seeds and sprouts by quantifying representative bioactive compounds and antioxidants across six varieties. The ultimate goal was to identify the optimal radish variety with these beneficial properties through the TOPSIS-entropy weight method. This study measured chlorophyll, carotenoids, anthocyanins, glucosinolates (GLSs), total phenol (TP), vitamin C content, and antioxidant capacities (POD: Peroxidase; PAL: Phenylalanine ammonia lyase; T-AOC: Total antioxidant capacity) in seeds and sprouts of radish grew for 7 days. The GLSs content in seeds was 3 to 6-fold higher than that in sprouts; while contents of anthocyanin, sugar, and TP were much higher in radish seeds than those in sprouts. Chlorophyll, carotenoid content, and POD activity were significantly higher in sprouts than in seeds. Combined with the ideal solution similarity ranking preference method (TOPSIS) entropy weight method, M (Man Tang Hong) was the optimal radish variety. Sprouts generally outperformed seeds in terms of overall phytochemical composition and antioxidant capacities, except for M. Therefore, more sprouts are recommended to be consumed in daily life without choosing specific radish variety. In conclusion, this study supports the health-promoting properties of radish based on a comprehensive deciphering of the nutritional profile of radish seeds and sprouts, both of which are good sources of bioactive compounds.
Authoritarian practices on the rise? Reflections from a Médecins Sans Frontières research programme on the engagement between international humanitarian non-governmental organisations and states
Authors: Cunningham Andrew , Healy Sean
Published: February 2025

The engagement between international humanitarian non-government organisations (INGOs) and states has long been a contested space. This theme has become more pertinent against the backdrop of a widely perceived global ‘rise in authoritarianism’. This paper presents research by Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) into factors influencing INGO-state engagement. The research examined the principal factors that influence the attitudes that states take towards international humanitarian NGOs working on their territories during situations of crisis. This paper reviews the findings from four field case studies (Bangladesh, the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, Chad, and Italy) as well as findings from a desk study on the current situation in Afghanistan and a review of MSF’s history with states. The research was grounded in a theoretical framework which integrates the concepts of authoritarian practices (Glasius), regulatory practices, the differentiation between strategic and tactical levels of engagement, and conceptions of legitimacy.
Integrative mindfulness-based infant parenting program: theoretical foundations and a novel intervention protocol
Authors: Burstein Or , Teshale Zevin Zipi , Geva Ronny
Published: February 2025

Infancy is a formative period in which high-quality parental care plays a vital role in setting solid foundations that guide a child’s development. Mindfulness has been recognized for enhancing parental awareness and sensitivity to both self and child and can be utilized in clinical practice to facilitate healthy development. To adapt mindful parenting practice for implementation in pediatric care settings and the specific needs and challenges of parenting infants, the current study introduces a novel theoretical framework, combining mindfulness with elements from calming cycle theory, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), trauma-informed care, emotion-focused therapy, schema therapy, and Vygotsky’s learning theory. These elements are not merely complementary but cardinal in meeting the diverse needs of parents during infancy, both in typical developmental contexts and following preterm birth, where additional stressors are often present. The study delineates the theoretical foundations of this integrative mindfulness-based approach and openly provides a novel comprehensive protocol of an 8-week group intervention program that operationalizes the proposed framework. This program focuses on enhancing parental mindful observation, non-judgmental acceptance, and goal-driven behavior to strengthen the resilience of the parent-infant relationship. Emphasizing the bi-directional nature of this relationship and the role of co-regulation with the child, the theory-derived program is designed to scaffold calming dyadic cycles, promote reconsolidation of birth-related adverse experiences, and facilitate flexibility in parental modes. The novelty of this intervention lies in its holistic approach to mindful parenting, conjoining diverse theoretical perspectives into a coherent, culturally adaptable, and clinically oriented protocol that can be assimilated in pediatric community clinics. The provided protocol may now enable the evaluation of the framework’s effectiveness in attaining positive effects for parents and children.
DAILY – A personalized circadian Zeitgeber therapy as an adjunctive treatment for alcohol use disorder patients: results of a pilot trial
Authors: Springer Naomi , Echtler Lisa , Volkmann Paul , Hühne-Landgraf Anisja , Hochenbleicher Jasmin , Hoch Eva , Koller Gabi , Landgraf Dominic
Published: February 2025

Background

Disturbances of circadian rhythms and everyday structures are hallmarks of alcohol use disorder (AUD). Recurring activities such as sleep, activity, and meals represent time cues, so called Zeitgebers, that synchronize the circadian system. With our newly developed therapy approach for AUD patients, we aim to reduce relapses and alcohol consumption in AUD patients undergoing a withdrawal program by strengthening their circadian rhythms.

Methods/Design

We aim to achieve the improvement of circadian rhythms with personalized structure plans for daily Zeitgeber activities, which are used in parallel with the standard therapy at our clinic. The DAILY pilot study is a six-week monocentric trial with a controlled, randomized, single-blinded, parallel-group design. 41 AUD patients participated in the pilot study and were randomly assigned to an intervention group (IG) or a control group (CG).

Results

The variability of daily activities was significantly lower in the IG group than in the CG group. Of the IG participants, two had relapsed during the study (<12%), whereas ten relapsed in the CG group (>60%). The relapsing IG participants recorded a total of three alcohol consumption days, while the CG participants recorded 52 consumption days. Abstinent participants showed significantly less variability in the times of their daily activities than relapsed participants. In addition, our analyses indicate that craving for alcohol is related to variability in the time of getting up and that craving and temporal variability increase before relapses. Moreover, the general well-being of the IG participants improved more than that of the CG participants.

Discussion

The data from this pilot study show that following a personalized daily structure plan helps AUD patients to remain abstinent during withdrawal therapy. The analyses indicate that temporal variability of daily activities and the risk of relapse are correlated. On the one hand, adherence to the daily structure may prevent relapse, on the other hand, an increase in variability may be a helpful predictor of approaching relapse. In our view, these data justify a continuation of the DAILY study with the addition of further measurements such as the determination of endogenous circadian rhythms.

Clinical trial registration

https://drks.de, identifier DRKS00019093.
Development of a social learning theory-based pressure injury training program for nursing assistants in Chinese nursing homes
Authors: Guo Yanxia , Yang Shengnan , Boonyamalik Plernpit , Powwattana Arpaporn , Zhu Wen , Xu Lingxia
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Pressure injury (PI) is a significant concern in Chinese nursing homes, particularly in China, especially due to the rapidly aging population. Nursing assistants play a vital role in PI prevention and management but often lack adequate training. To address this gap, we developed a training program for nursing assistants based on Social Learning Theory (SLT), aimed at improving their competencies in PI prevention and management. The modified Delphi method was used to gather expert consensus on the program’s structure and content.

Methods

A two-round Delphi process was performed involving an expert panel in wound care, community nursing, geriatric nursing, and nursing education. The training program was designed based on SLT, emphasizing observational learning, enactive learning, and behavioral reinforcement. Several experts evaluated the training program’s content, which was informed by systematic reviews and qualitative interviews with stakeholders. Data analysis included expert’s positive coefficient, expert’s authority coefficient (Cr), expert’s coordination coefficient (Kendall’s W), and coefficient of variation (CV) were used to reflect reliability and consensus.

Results

Consensus was reached on 79 key indicators for the training program, which included 4 first-level indicators (training objectives, content, methods, and evaluation), 13 second-level indicators, and 62 third-level indicators. The expert authority coefficient was 0.93, and Kendall’s W values of 0.372 (p < 0.001) in the first round and 0.177 (p < 0.001) in the second round indicated strong agreement among experts. The program integrates SLT principles, such as attention, retention, motor reproduction, and motivation, to enhance the training’s effectiveness.

Conclusion

The study developed a comprehensive SLT-based PI training program for nursing assistants in Chinese nursing homes using the modified Delphi method. The program addresses the critical need for competency-based training in PI prevention and management. Future research should focus on the implementation and evaluation of this program in real-world settings to determine its effectiveness in improving nursing assistants’ skills and reducing PI incidence among older adult residents.
Artificial intelligence: a useful tool in active tuberculosis screening among vulnerable groups in Romania - advantages and limitations
Authors: Mahler Beatrice , Stoichiță Alexandru , Băiceanu Dragoș , Panciu Traian-Constantin , Dendrino Dragoș , Mihai Mihaela , Bobocea Raluca , Ibraim Elmira , Bălteanu Mara , Popescu Oana , Burecu Mădălina Oana , Moșteanu Ioana Mădălina , Veronese Vanessa , Matache Radu , Munteanu Ioana , Popa Cristina , Dragomir Justina Antonela
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Despite advances in diagnostic technologies for tuberculosis (TB), global control of this disease requires improved technologies for active case finding in selected vulnerable populations. The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into imaging modalities has been anticipated to assume a pivotal position in conjunction with traditional bacteriological diagnostic approaches, especially in the active diagnosis of vulnerable groups.

Methods

The study was conducted as a prospective investigation spanning from November 2019 to October 2023, in Romania’s national TB screening project. From total of 92,368 tested participants, 404 patients were included in the study, with 202 individuals diagnosed with TB and 202 individuals serving as controls. The initial interpretation of radiological images was performed by AI X-Vision software and patients with suspicious findings were confirmed to have TB using GeneXpert testing. The objective of this study is to discover a threshold at which the AI score can accurately assess the risk of TB, regardless of the patient’s medical background.

Results

The study involved a number of 404 people, among whom 202 were diagnosed with TB out of a total of 92,368 participants, and the remaining 202 patients represent the control group. The current study highlighted, at an AI threshold value of 0.4, that 89% of the screened people benefited from a correct assessment using the AI associated with the radiological examination. ROC curve analysis indicates an AUC of 0.923 (95% CI:0.893–0.947; significance level p < 0.0001) which shows that the test has a high capacity to accurately detect individuals with TB and also to rule out those who do not have the disease, with sensitivity 87.1, specificity 91.6 and criterion >0.3585.

Conclusion

Our study brings to the fore the significance of integrating AI software X-vision with bacteriological diagnosis in detecting TB among vulnerable groups in Romania. This underscores the imperative at the global level to develop solutions in the prompt diagnosis of TB, particularly within vulnerable groups.
Impact of healthcare-associated infections on in-hospital outcomes during the COVID-19 era: a multicenter comparative study of 20,942 isolated microorganisms from ICU patients
Authors: Khavandegar Armin , Siami Zeinab , Rasouli Aziz , Nazemi Pershang , Gull Anoosha
Published: February 2025

Background

Healthcare-associate infection (HAI) has been one of the health care issues worldwide. During the COVID-19 pandemic, HAI prevention was considered a vital aspect of the clinical management of COVID-19. In the present study, we aimed to compare the frequency of HAIs in ICU-admitted cases within and before the COVID-19 era.

Methods

This multicenter retrospective study applied a descriptive-analytical approach to investigate the frequency of HAIs in the ICU departments of hospitals affiliated with Tehran University of Medical Sciences from 2017 to 2022.

Results

Overall, 14,268 cases with 20,942 isolated microorganisms were recruited for this study, with 8,289 (58.1%) of them being male and 5,975 (41.9%) being female. A total of 6,722 (47.1%) cases with 9,917 (47.4%) isolated microorganisms were documented in the pre-COVID-19 era, while 7,546 (52.9%) patients with 11,025 (52.64%) were reported in COVID-19 era. Of 14,268 patients admitted to the ICU during the study period, 9,197 (64.8%) were discharged and 5,071 died (35.5%), of which 1,970 (29.3%) occurred in pre-COVID and 4,752 (70.7%) in the COVID-19 era (p-value < 0.001). Klebsiella species, Acinetobacter species, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus species, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa were the five most frequent isolated microorganisms, reported in 5,542 (26.50%), 4,171 (19.90%), 2,651 (12.70%), 2,537 (12.10%), and 1,851 (8.80%) cultures, respectively. VAEs were the most common infection types as reported in 3,562 (25%) patients. There was a statistically significant difference in UTI, PMEU, BSI, and others, with an increase in PMEUs (13.5% vs. 17.1%) and BSI (22.7% vs. 24.5%) and a decrease in UTIs (24.5% vs. 22.2%) and others (4.2% vs. 2.6%) in COVID-19 era compared to pre-COVID-19. The odds of in-hospital mortality in all six main infection categories have significantly increased in the COVID-19 era when compared to the pre-COVID-19 era. The odds of death were increased in the SSI group more than the rest (OR:2.65, CI 95%: 2.13–3.29).

Conclusion

COVID-19 changed the pattern of HAIs and also increased their mortality. Overall, the findings of this study emphasize the importance of continuous monitoring and improvement of infection control measures in ICUs to reduce the incidence of HAIs and improve patient outcomes.
Scenario construction and evolutionary analysis of nonconventional public health emergencies based on Bayesian networks
Authors: Zhu Yutao , Yang Qing , Fu Lingmei , Cai Chun , Wang Jinmei , He Ling
Published: February 2025

Objectives

The objective was to aggregate the various scenarios that occur during nonconventional public health emergencies (NCPHEs) and analyze the evolutionary patterns of NCPHEs to better avoid risks and reduce social impacts. The aim was to enhance strategies for handling NCPHEs.

Study design

News reports were crawled to obtain the scenario elements of NCPHEs and categorized into the spreading stage or derivation stage. Finally, the key scenario nodes and scenario evolution process were analyzed in combination with a corresponding emergency response assessment of each scenario by experts.

Methods

Dempster–Shafer (DS) theory and Bayesian networks (BNs) were applied for data reasoning, and a spread-derived coupled scenario–response theoretical model of NCPHEs for major public health emergencies was constructed. The scenario evolution path of COVID-19 was derived by combining seven types of major scenario states and corresponding emergency response measures extracted from 952 spreading scenarios.

Results

The 26 NCPHE spread scenarios and 41 NCPHE derivation scenarios were summarized. Optimized and pessimistic NCPHE scenario pathways were generated by combining the seven major spreading scenarios to help decision makers predict the development of NCPHEs and take timely and effective emergency response measures for key scenario nodes.

Conclusion

This study provides a new approach for understanding and managing NCPHEs, emphasizing the need to consider the specificity and complexity of such emergencies when developing decision-making strategies. Our contextual derivation model and emergency decision-making system provide practical tools with which to enhance NCPHE response capabilities and promote public health and safety.
The impact of economic burden of disease on poverty among young migrant workers: evidence from China
Authors: Chen Yiyan , Yan Yueping , Chen Lijun
Published: February 2025

Introduction

The treatment cost expenditure for family members with illness is a significant factor exacerbating poverty. Using nationally representative data concerning the migrant population, this study analyzes the impact of the economic burden from family members’ illness on poverty among young migrant workers.

Methods

Firstly, we construct a multidimensional poverty index system based on five dimensions: income, education, employment, health, and livelihood,and used the A-F method for calculation. Moreover, diverging from existing studies that objectively measure the economic burden of disease, we explore an evaluation method based on subjective perceptions.

Results

The incidence of multidimensional poverty among young migrant workers is relatively high, at 30.93%. The economic burden imposed by family members’ illnesses significantly exacerbates their risk of poverty, particularly within the 26-35 age bracket. Furthermore, compared to their male counterparts, female young migrant workers are more susceptible to the adverse effects of the economic burden of disease.

Discussion

In China, migrant workers confront numerous challenges in both their professional and personal lives, with the economic burden on their families further exacerbating their predicament. Consequently, policymakers should prioritize enhancing health insurance coverage and expanding the reach of social welfare programs to alleviate poverty and the pressures faced by young migrant workers who are the primary breadwinners.
A comparison of the acute effects of high intensity interval training and moderate intensity continuous training on working memory and emotional state in adolescent women with subthreshold depression
Authors: Yuan Shiwei , Lin Lili , Liu Libin , Zhang Xinyuan , Gu Qian
Published: February 2025

Objective

Various guidelines emphasize the cognitive and emotional benefits of physical activity. However, it is not yet clear what kind of exercise intensity is suitable for individuals with subthreshold depression. Therefore, this study aims to examine the effects of high intensity interval training (HIIT) and moderate intensity continuous training (MICT) on the working memory and emotional state.

Methods

Forty-nine female students with subthreshold depression (mean age 16.3 ± 0.5 yrs) completed 20-min group of sit (SIT), MICT, and HIIT on separate days in a counterbalanced order. The modified n-back task was employed to evaluate working memory. Emotional state was assessed using the Feeling Scale (FS) and Felt Arousal Scale (FAS).

Results

Regarding working memory, for accuracy, SIT (82.41 ± 13.79%), MICT (81.79 ± 13.19%) and HIIT (82.06 ± 11.36%) have no significant difference (all p > 0.05). However, for reaction time, MICT (459.86 ± 131.47 ms) is significantly faster than HIIT (491.16 ± 115.68 ms) (p = 0.046), and there is no significant difference between MICT and SIT (462.71 ± 120.64 ms) (p > 0.05). Concerning emotional state, for arousal, FAS scores significantly increased after both HIIT (2.39 ± 1.30 to 3.76 ± 1.12, p < 0.001) and MICT (2.55 ± 0.88 to 3.94 ± 1.08, p < 0.001) compared to pre-exercise, and the increase caused by them was significantly higher than that of SIT (HIIT: p = 0.011; MICT: p < 0.01). For pleasure, the increase in FS score after MICT (−0.27 ± 1.13 to 1.06 ± 1.79) was significantly higher than that of SIT (0.32 ± 1.38 to 0.58 ± 1.53) (p < 0.01).

Conclusion

Acute MICT can enhance working memory and improve the emotional state of adolescent women with subthreshold depression, while HIIT may decrease working memory and pleasure in this particular population.
Validation of the Arabic eHealth literacy questionnaire: a factor and Rasch analysis study
Authors: Al-Qerem Walid , Fadhil Osama N. , Jarab Anan , Hammad Alaa , Al-Asmari Fawaz , Zidan Rahaf , Eberhardt Judith
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Amidst the rapid digitalization of healthcare, there is a need for tools that accurately assess eHealth literacy across cultural contexts. This study focused on the validation of an Arabic version of the eHealth Literacy Questionnaire (eHLQ), a tool to facilitate patient engagement and health outcomes in digital healthcare.

Method

Using a convenience sampling method, the study recruited a diverse sample of 657 participants from Jordan (58.9% females and 41.1% males).

Results

Confirmatory Factor Analysis and Rasch analysis supported a six-factor model and demonstrated satisfactory item performance within established thresholds. The findings revealed good internal consistency with Cronbach’s α ranging between ranging between 0.71 to 0.84. Differential Item Functioning analysis indicated no gender-specific variations.

Discussion

The validated Arabic eHLQ is a reliable tool that can help in supporting the development of tailored interventions to improve healthcare delivery in Arabic-speaking regions.
MPAR-RCNN: a multi-task network for multiple person detection with attribute recognition
Authors: Raghavendra S. , Abhilash S. K. , Nookala Venu Madhav , Shetty Jayashree , Bharathi Praveen Gurunath
Published: February 2025

Multi-label attribute recognition is a critical task in computer vision, with applications ranging across diverse fields. This problem often involves detecting objects with multiple attributes, necessitating sophisticated models capable of both high-level differentiation and fine-grained feature extraction. The integration of object detection and attribute recognition typically relies on approaches such as dual-stage networks, where accurate predictions depend on advanced feature extraction techniques, such as Region of Interest (RoI) pooling. To meet these demands, an efficient method that achieves both reliable detection and attribute classification in a unified framework is essential. This study introduces an innovative MTL framework designed to incorporate Multi-Person Attribute Recognition (MPAR) within a single-model architecture. Named MPAR-RCNN, this framework unifies object detection and attribute recognition tasks through a spatially aware, shared backbone, facilitating efficient and accurate multi-label prediction. Unlike the traditional Fast Region-based Convolutional Neural Network (R-CNN), which separately manages person detection and attribute classification with a dual-stage network, the MPAR-RCNN architecture optimizes both tasks within a single structure. Validated on the WIDER (Web Image Dataset for Event Recognition) dataset, the proposed model demonstrates an improvement over current state-of-the-art (SOTA) architectures, showcasing its potential in advancing multi-label attribute recognition.
Construction of a prediction and visualization system for cognitive impairment in elderly COPD patients based on self-assigning feature weights and residual evolution model
Authors: Cheng Wenwen , Yu Chen , Liu Xiaohui
Published: February 2025

Background

Assessing cognitive function in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is crucial for ensuring treatment efficacy and avoiding moderate cognitive impairment (MCI) or dementia. We aimed to build better machine learning models and provide useful tools to provide better guidance and assistance for COPD patients' treatment and care.

Methods

A total of 863 COPD patients from a local general hospital were collected and screened, and they were separated into two groups: cognitive impairment (356 patients) and cognitively normal (507 patients). The Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) was used to test cognitive function. The swarm intelligence optimization algorithm (SIOA) was used to direct feature weighting and hyperparameter optimization, which were considered simultaneous activities. A self-assigning feature weights and residual evolution (SAFWRE) algorithm was built on the concept of linear and nonlinear information fusion.

Results

The best method in SIOA was the circle search algorithm. On the training set, SAFWRE's ROC-AUC was 0.9727, and its PR-AUC was 0.9663; on the test set, SAFWRE's receiver operating characteristic-area under curve (ROC-AUC) was 0.9243, and its precision recall-area under curve (PR-AUC) was 0.9059, and its performance was much superior than that of the control technique. In terms of external data, the classification and prediction performance of various models are comprehensively evaluated. SAFWRE has the most excellent classification performance, with ROC-AUC of 0.8865 and pr-auc of 0.8299.

Conclusion

This work develops a practical visualization system based on these weight attributes which has strong application importance and promotion value.
The transnational earth: Evolution meets the World Heritage in model development scenarios for a globally inclusive knowledge economy
Authors: Ayala Hana
Published: February 2025

The article explores the global promise of the natural reserves of the knowledge capital that permeate the earth's evolutionary and ecological connectivity and may constitute the greatest reserve of the sustainability and common good of the global knowledge economy. It builds the case for valuing knowledge yielded by basic research that inter-relates natural properties and processes across and beyond national jurisdictions as a mapping tool for World Heritage nominations as well as for collaborations that would deliver a unique stimulus for building conservation-premised transnational knowledge economies that fully engage the developing world. This perspective is vetted in the South Pacific Island Region, the Eastern Tropical Pacific, and the Isthmus of Panama, via model approaches crafted to empower the World Heritage instrument to vitalize the economic might of scientific exploration of the planet's biodiversity and to play a central role in unlocking the potential of nature's knowledge-rich evolutionary pathways to redefine the world's economic geography. The roadmap toward unleashing the economic energy of transnational research endeavors as stewards of new conservation frontiers is offered with a business model grounded in the confluence of knowledge and wonder and contributing an investment platform that encourages a globally shared benefit of the knowledge economy.
The aging hematopoietic stem cell niche: a mini review
Authors: Gao Xin , Zhang Jing , Tamplin Owen J.
Published: February 2025

Hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) undergo a functional decline during aging. The intrinsic characteristics of aged HSCs have been well-described and include a strong myeloid bias, an increase in total number, and a decrease in functionality during transplantation. The impact of the aged bone marrow microenvironment, or niche, on HSCs is less well understood. It is critical to understand the changing condition of the niche during aging, and its ability to support HSCs, as this could reveal the very signals and mechanisms needed to improve HSC fitness. Furthermore, heterochronic transplantation provides an approach to test the influence of an aged recipient niche on young donor HSCs, and conversely, of a young recipient niche on aged donor HSCs. Importantly, these experiments demonstrated that donor HSC engraftment is reduced if the recipient niche is aged, and conversely, the young niche can rejuvenate aged donor HSCs. Here we will focus on the interactions between aged HSCs and their microenvironment. We will highlight current controversies, research gaps, and future directions.
Approaches to implementing and financing primary health care in Kenya: a case of seven counties
Authors: Karimi Janette , Hussien Salim , Wangia Elizabeth , Kimani Mercy-Irene , Mohamed Mohamud , Wanda Melissa , Muganda Rosemarie , Ndirangu Rachel , Mwai Daniel , Wanjala Mercy , Richter Fadhila
Published: February 2025

Background

Kenya has prioritized Primary Health Care as an indispensable foundation to realize UHC by 2022. Integral to this approach’s operationalization is the adoption of the primary health care networks (PCNs) model to strengthen service delivery efficiency and coordination. The PCNs are coordinated by a Multidisciplinary Team (MDT). The MDT is dynamic and should comprise a care and support team that matches patient health needs and the catchment population. This scholarly article delineates the outcomes of an investigative assessment reviewing the current state and trajectory of PHC implementation, focusing on the PCN implementation, and analyzing PHC financing modalities in 7 counties in Kenya.

Methods

This study employed a mixed-methodological approach to gather data from seven counties; Garissa, Nyeri, Makueni, Vihiga, Kisumu, Nakuru, and Mombasa. Key informant interviews were conducted with county health officials and partners. Additionally, counties were supplied with templates for qualitative data. Data was subsequently analyzed using thematic analysis and descriptive statistics.

Results

Successful implementation of PCNs was positively correlated with robust county-level leadership, prioritization of PHC funding, intersectoral collaboration, and joint planning initiatives. Counties which had achieved high levels of community health unit (CHU) establishment and functionality were more adept at successfully mapping and operationalizing PCNs. All participating counties adopted Sub-County Health Management Teams (SCHMTs) as the MDTs due to staffing limitations at primary care facilities consequently inhibiting the capacity for effective MDT engagement. Fiscal commitments at the county level were imperative for facilitating the mobility of MDTs and orchestrating community outreach initiatives. Reimbursements from the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF) served as a pivotal financial conduit for the sustenance of primary care facilities.

Conclusion

The study finds that robust leadership, funding, collaboration, and planning were crucial for the effective operationalization and financial structuring of PCNs. The study recommends that the county governments should invest more in PHC infrastructure, equipment, and supplies, as well as in strengthening the capacity and mobility of MDTs. The study also suggests that uptake of NHIF will enhance the sustainability of PCNs.
Exploring the application of knowledge transfer to sports video data
Authors: Heidari Shahrokh , Zazueta Gibran , Mitchell Riki , Soriano Valdez David Arturo , Rogers Mitchell , Wang Jiaxuan , Wang Ruigeng , Noronha Marcel , Gastelum Strozzi Alfonso , Zhang Mengjie , Delmas Patrice Jean
Published: February 2025

The application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Computer Vision (CV) in sports has generated significant interest in enhancing viewer experience through graphical overlays and predictive analytics, as well as providing valuable insights to coaches. However, more efficient methods are needed that can be applied across different sports without incurring high data annotation or model training costs. A major limitation of training deep learning models on large datasets is the significant resource requirement for reproducing results. Transfer Learning and Zero-Shot Learning (ZSL) offer promising alternatives to this approach. For example, ZSL in player re-identification (a crucial step in more complex sports behavioral analysis) involves re-identifying players in sports videos without having seen examples of those players during the training phase. This study investigates the performance of various ZSL techniques in the context of Rugby League and Netball. We focus on ZSL and player re-identification models that use feature embeddings to measure similarity between players. To support our experiments, we created two comprehensive datasets of broadcast video clips: one with nearly 35,000 frames for Rugby League and another with close to 14,000 frames for Netball, each annotated with player IDs and actions. Our approach leverages pre-trained re-identification models to extract feature embeddings for ZSL evaluation under a challenging testing environmnet. Results demonstrate that models pre-trained on sports player re-identification data outperformed those pre-trained on general person re-identification datasets. Part-based models showed particular promise in handling the challenges of dynamic sports environments, while non-part-based models struggled due to background interference.
Raising active children: how family and school shape health-promoting physical activity—findings from the FAMIPASS study
Authors: Vorlíček Michal , Dygrýn Jan , Janda David , Voráčová Jaroslava , Duncan Scott , Sigmund Erik , Sigmundová Dagmar
Published: February 2025

This study investigated the combined impact of family dynamics and school environments on physical activity levels in children aged 3–9 years across distinct segments of the school day. Conducted as part of the FAMIPASS project in the Czech Republic, the study collected data in 2022 and 2023 from 502 families affiliated with 36 preschools and primary schools. The device-based monitoring of movement behaviors in children and their parents was conducted over a one-week period using ActiGraph accelerometers, complemented by detailed family questionnaires. Regression analysis revealed that parental physical activity, BMI, and education level significantly influenced children's moderate-to-vigorous physical activity, with educated parents more likely to raise active children. Active transport to school emerged as a key factor associated with higher child activity levels specifically in the time segment before school. This research underscores the role of family and school as critical arenas for promoting health and physical activity. These insights highlight the need for integrated family-school strategies to foster healthy activity habits in children, thereby laying the groundwork for a more active generation.
Comparative clinical impact of low-curvature and normal-curvature titanium mesh in cranioplasty: a retrospective analysis of patient outcomes
Authors: Yang Shengkai , Chen Weihua , Teng Hongwei , Zhang Lei , Ji Kangkang , Zhou Hai
Published: February 2025

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the clinical utility of two types of cranioplasty surgery involving low-curvature and normal-curvature titanium mesh, respectively.

Methods

The clinical data were retrospectively collected from patients undergoing skull defect repair surgery between January 2021 and December 2022. The clinical outcomes associated with the two surgical approaches were compared and analyzed.

Results

A total of 67 patients who underwent skull defect repair surgery were enrolled, with 22 in the low-curvature titanium mesh group and 45 in the normal-curvature titanium mesh group. Both before and after propensity score matching (PSM) analysis, the hospital stay for the low-curvature titanium mesh group was significantly shorter than that for the normal-curvature mesh group (Before: 9.14 ± 2.64 vs. 12.51 ± 4.15, P = 0.001; After: 9.44 ± 2.83 vs. 12.13 ± 4.40, P = 0.048). The low-curvature group exhibited lower overall hospitalization costs than the normal-curvature group (Before: 23500. ± 900. vs. 24,900. ± 1,100., P < 0.001; After: 23,300. ± 800. vs. 24,100. ± 1,000., P = 0.026). Moreover, satisfaction with molding (Before: 4.23 ± 0.75 vs. 3.18 ± 0.81, P = 0.001; After: 4.13 ± 0.72 vs. 3.25 ± 0.78, P < 0.001), Karnofsky's Performance Status score (Before: 93.32 ± 1.67 vs. 90.38 ± 3.50, P = 0.001; After: 93.56 ± 1.75 vs. 91.00 ± 3.78, P < 0.001), and Quality of Life score (Before: 52.95 ± 2.13 vs. 50.18 ± 3.54, P = 0.001; After: 53.31 ± 2.12 vs. 50.38 ± 4.23, P = 0.001) were significantly higher in the low-curvature titanium mesh group than the normal-curvature titanium mesh group.

Conclusions

Applying low-curvature titanium mesh for skull repair effectively shortens the hospital stay, reduces overall hospitalization costs,enhances patient satisfaction with surgical modeling, and improves the postoperative functional status and quality of life of patients undergoing neurosurgery. These advantages warrant further clinical promotion.
Helminth absence and invasion success of blackchin tilapia (Sarotherodon melanotheron) in Thailand
Authors: Suwannarat Nannaphat , Ribas Alexis , Miquel Jordi , Poonlaphdecha Srisupaph
Published: February 2025

Introduction

This study investigates the helminth absence in the invasive blackchin tilapia (Sarotherodon melanotheron) in Thailand, testing the Enemy Release Hypothesis (ERH). The ERH suggests that invasive species thrive in new habitats due to the lack of natural parasites that control their populations in native environments. The recent introduction of S. melanotheron in Thailand has raised concerns about its ecological and economic impacts.

Methods

We surveyed 164 blackchin tilapia from six different locations in Chumphon Province, Thailand, including the sea, estuary, canal, and shrimp farms, examining them for helminths. Fishermen provided data on the first capture dates in the surveyed areas to determine how long the populations have been established.

Results

No helminths were detected in any of the examined fish. The absence of parasites was consistent across all surveyed environments, suggesting a lack of parasitic burden in the population.

Discussion

The absence of helminths may contribute to the successful expansion of S. melanotheron in Thailand, supporting the Enemy Release Hypothesis.
Exploring Entrepreneurship Education: Trends and Student Enrollment at a University of Technology
Authors: Ngcobo Nontokozo , Tshikovhi Ndivhuho , Moyo Sibusiso
Published: February 2025

Using educational data-mining (EDM) approaches, this study examines the evolution and efficacy of entrepreneurship education at Durban University of Technology (DUT) from 2010 to 2020. The student enrollment and performance data were analyzed using random forests (RFs) and support vector machines (SVMs). According to the findings, which are in line with DUT’s “Envision 2030” strategic plan, there has been noticeable growth in student enrollment and the addition of new entrepreneurship modules since 2017. According to the study, the RF fared better in terms of predictive accuracy than the SVM did, indicating the value of EDM approaches in predicting trends in education. The findings validate DUT’s strategic objectives and indicate areas for further investigation that might include more variables and examine the effects of outside influences.
Understanding the Drivers of Agricultural Innovation in Ethiopia’s Integrated Agro-Industrial Parks: A Structural Equation Modeling and Qualitative Insights Approach
Authors: Boru Efa Muleta , Hwang Junseok , Ahmad Abdi Yuya
Published: February 2025

Ethiopia’s agricultural sector faces several challenges, including low productivity, limited technology adoption, and vulnerability to climate change. Integrated Agro-Industrial Parks (IAIPs) have been designed to address these issues by linking agriculture with industrialization and encouraging the adoption of advanced technologies. However, the role of IAIPs in driving agricultural innovation has not been thoroughly explored. This study employs the Sectoral Innovation Systems (SIS) framework combined with Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) and qualitative insights to identify the key drivers of agricultural innovation within Ethiopia’s IAIPs. The key drivers analyzed include institutional support, networking, policy frameworks, technology adoption, and gender dynamics. Data were collected from a range of stakeholders, including government agencies, research institutions, agro-businesses, and local communities with direct linkages to two of Ethiopia’s four IAIPs. The findings highlight the crucial role of institutional support and networking in fostering innovation, with government policies significantly influencing technological advancements. Additionally, qualitative insights underscore the potential of circular economy principles—such as waste management and byproduct recycling—towards improving sustainability and economic efficiency within IAIPs. Based on these findings, the study recommends strengthening institutional frameworks, promoting greater stakeholder collaboration, and integrating technological innovations as key strategies for enhancing agricultural innovation. Future research should expand to include a broader range of IAIPs and investigate the long-term effects of innovation systems through both quantitative and qualitative approaches.