bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Mangrove community-based management in Eastern Africa: experiences from rural Mozambique
Authors: Macamo Célia da Conceição Felisberto , Inácio da Costa Fátima , Bandeira Salomao , Adams Janine Barbara , Balidy Henriques Jacinto 
Published: February 2024

IntroductionThis study investigated a community-based management model in a mangrove-dependent community in central Mozambique and its adequacy as a management tool for conservation.MethodsSatellite images were used to map changes in mangrove cover between 1996 and 2017. Individual interviews and Focus Group Discussions were conducted with community members to understand the mangrove restoration processes and management models.Results and discussionAfter unsustainable exploitation that led to mangrove deforestation, the local community engaged in a restoration and management program that started in the late 1990s. Local norms were delineated by the Natural Resources Management Committee (NRMC) aiming at (1) reducing extractive uses by introducing alternative income generating activities; (2) awareness and mangrove planting and (3) law enforcement. Ten hectares of forest were rehabilitated. However, the management system fails to exclude illegal cutters and to enforce regulatory and sanctioning mechanisms, due to resource limitations. More involvement from government authorities and other stakeholders is needed to enhance law enforcement and explore opportunities for carbon trading, tourism and payment for ecosystem services. Additional recommendations are to develop a community management plan and create alternatives to mangrove products and income. Mangrove community-based management is increasingly advocated in many developing countries to promote sustainable utilization of resources and conservation. Understanding the reasons behind the limited success and lessons learnt at this site will guide similar programs elsewhere in Mozambique and other parts of the globe.
Clinical and imaging markers for the prognosis of acute ischemic stroke
Authors: Pei Chenyang , He Che , Li Han , Li Xiangying , Huang Weihui , Liu Jun , Yin Jianzhong 
Published: February 2024

Background and purposeSignificant differences in the outcomes observed in patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS) have led to research investigations for identifying the predictors. In this retrospective study, we aimed to investigate the relationship of different clinical and imaging factors with the prognosis of AIS.Materials and methodsAll clinical and imaging metrics were compared between the good and poor prognosis groups according to the modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score at 90 days after discharge. Clinical factors included gender, age, NIHSS scores at admission, and other medical history risk factors. Imaging markers included the lesion’s size and location, diffusion, and perfusion metrics of infarction core and peripheral regions, and the state of collateral circulation. Spearman’s correlations were analyzed for age and imaging markers between the different groups. The Chi-square test and Cramer’s V coefficient analysis were performed for gender, collateral circulation status, NIHSS score, and other stroke risk factors.ResultsA total of 89 patients with AIS were divided into the good (mRS score ≤ 2) and poor prognosis groups (mRS score ≥ 3). There were differences in NIHSS score at the admission; relative MK (rMK), relative MD (rMD), relative CBF (rCBF) of the infarction core; relative mean transit time (rMTT), relative time to peak (rTTP), and relative CBF (rCBF) of peripheral regions; and collateral circulation status between the two groups (p &lt; 0.05). Among them, the rMK of infarction lesions had the strongest correlation with the mRS score at 90 days after discharge (r = 0.545, p &lt; 0.001).ConclusionPerfusion and diffusion metrics could reflect the microstructure and blood flow characteristics of the lesion, which were the key factors for the salvage ability and prognosis of the infarction tissue. The characteristics of the infarction core and peripheral regions have different effects on the outcomes. Diffusion of infarction core has strong relations with the prognosis, whereas the time metrics (MTT, TTP) were more important for peripheral regions. MK had a more significant association with prognosis than MD. These factors were the primary markers influencing the prognosis of cerebral infarction patients.
Can head sway patterns differentiate between patients with Meniere’s disease vs. peripheral vestibular hypofunction?
Authors: Kelly Jennifer L. , Cosetti Maura , Lubetzky Anat V. 
Published: February 2024

BackgroundMeniere’s disease (MD) is defined by episodic vertigo, unilateral sensorineural hearing loss and fluctuating aural symptoms. Due to the variable clinical presentation, objective tests of MD may have significant diagnostic utility. Head kinematics derived from a head-mounted display (HMD) have demonstrated to be sensitive to vestibular dysfunction. The purpose of this pilot study was to investigate whether head sway can differentiate between patients with MD, vestibular hypofunction (VH) and healthy controls.Materials/methods80 adults (30 healthy controls, 32 with VH, and 18 with MD) were recruited from a tertiary vestibular clinic. All underwent a postural control assessment using the HTC Vive Pro Eye HMD that recorded head sway in the anterior–posterior (AP), medio-lateral (ML), pitch, yaw and roll direction. Participants were tested with 2 levels of visual load: a static versus oscillating star display. Each scene lasted 60 s and was repeated twice. Sway in each direction was quantified using root mean square velocity (VRMS) for the first 20 s and full 60 s of each scene.ResultsStatic visual: participants with VH showed significantly larger head VRMS than controls in the AP (60 s and 20 s) and pitch (20 s) directions. Dynamic visual: participants with VH showed significantly larger head VRMS than controls all directions for both the 60 and 20 s analysis. Participants with MD did not differ significantly from the control or the VH group.ConclusionWhile limited in numbers, Patients with MD had a high variability in head sway in all directions, and their average head sway was between controls and those with VH. A larger sample as well as patients with worse symptoms at time of testing could elucidate whether head sway via HMD could become a viable test in this population. A similar finding between 20- and 60-s scene and the full portability of the system with an in-clinic testing setup could help these future endeavors. Head sway derived from HMD is sensitive to VH and can be clinically useful as an outcome measure to evaluate sensory integration for postural control.
Lattice layout and optimizer effect analysis for generating optimal transcranial electrical stimulation (tES) montages through the metaheuristic L1L1 method
Authors: Galaz Prieto Fernando , Samavaki Maryam , Pursiainen Sampsa 
Published: February 2024

IntroductionThis study focuses on broadening the applicability of the metaheuristic L1-norm fitted and penalized (L1L1) optimization method in finding a current pattern for multichannel transcranial electrical stimulation (tES). The metaheuristic L1L1 optimization framework defines the tES montage via linear programming by maximizing or minimizing an objective function with respect to a pair of hyperparameters.MethodsIn this study, we explore the computational performance and reliability of different optimization packages, algorithms, and search methods in combination with the L1L1 method. The solvers from Matlab R2020b, MOSEK 9.0, Gurobi Optimizer, CVX's SeDuMi 1.3.5, and SDPT3 4.0 were employed to produce feasible results through different linear programming techniques, including Interior-Point (IP), Primal-Simplex (PS), and Dual-Simplex (DS) methods. To solve the metaheuristic optimization task of L1L1, we implement an exhaustive and recursive search along with a well-known heuristic direct search as a reference algorithm.ResultsBased on our results, and the given optimization task, Gurobi's IP was, overall, the preferable choice among Interior-Point while MOSEK's PS and DS packages were in the case of Simplex methods. These methods provided substantial computational time efficiency for solving the L1L1 method regardless of the applied search method.DiscussionWhile the best-performing solvers show that the L1L1 method is suitable for maximizing either focality and intensity, a few of these solvers could not find a bipolar configuration. Part of the discrepancies between these methods can be explained by a different sensitivity with respect to parameter variation or the resolution of the lattice provided.
Identification of FLRT2 as a key prognostic gene through a comprehensive analysis of TMB and IRGPs in BLCA patients
Authors: Tao Yaling , Yu Xiaoling , Cong Huaiwei , Li Jinpeng , Zhu Junqi , Ding Huaxin , Chen Qian , Cai Ting 
Published: February 2024

IntroductionThe tumor immune environment and immune-related genes are instrumental in the development, progression, and prognosis of bladder cancer (BLCA). This study sought to pinpoint key immune-related genes influencing BLCA prognosis and decipher their mechanisms of action.Methods and resultsWe analyzed differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between high- and low- tumor mutational burden (TMB) groups. Subsequently, we constructed a reliable prognostic model based on immune-related gene pairs (IRGPs) and analyzed DEGs between high- and low-risk groups. A total of 22 shared DEGs were identified across differential TMB and IRGPs-derived risk groups in BLCA patients. Through univariate Cox and multivariate Cox analyses, we highlighted five genes - FLRT2, NTRK2, CYTL1, ZNF683, PRSS41 - significantly correlated with BLCA patient prognosis. Notably, the FLRT2 gene emerged as an independent prognostic factor for BLCA, impacting patient prognosis via modulation of macrophage infiltration in immune microenvironment. Further investigation spotlighted methylation sites - cg25120290, cg02305242, and cg01832662 - as key regulators of FLRT2 expression.DiscussionThese findings identified pivotal prognostic genes in BLCA and illuminated the intricate mechanisms dictating patient prognosis. This study not only presents a novel prognostic marker but also carves out potential avenues for immunotherapy and targeted therapeutic strategies in BLCA. By demystifying the profound impact of immune-related genes and the tumor immune environment, this study augments the comprehension and prognostic management of bladder cancer.
Multilayered insights: a machine learning approach for personalized prognostic assessment in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Zhang Zhao-Han , Du Yunxiang , Wei Shuzhen , Pei Weidong 
Published: February 2024

BackgroundHepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a complex malignancy, and precise prognosis assessment is vital for personalized treatment decisions.ObjectiveThis study aimed to develop a multi-level prognostic risk model for HCC, offering individualized prognosis assessment and treatment guidance.MethodsBy utilizing data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database, we performed differential gene expression analysis to identify genes associated with survival in HCC patients. The HCC Differential Gene Prognostic Model (HCC-DGPM) was developed through multivariate Cox regression. Clinical indicators were incorporated into the HCC-DGPM using Cox regression, leading to the creation of the HCC Multilevel Prognostic Model (HCC-MLPM). Immune function was evaluated using single-sample Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (ssGSEA), and immune cell infiltration was assessed. Patient responsiveness to immunotherapy was evaluated using the Immunophenoscore (IPS). Clinical drug responsiveness was investigated using drug-related information from the TCGA database. Cox regression, Kaplan-Meier analysis, and trend association tests were conducted.ResultsSeven differentially expressed genes from the TCGA database were used to construct the HCC-DGPM. Additionally, four clinical indicators associated with survival were identified from the SEER database for model adjustment. The adjusted HCC-MLPM showed significantly improved discriminative capacity (AUC=0.819 vs. 0.724). External validation involving 153 HCC patients from the International Cancer Genome Consortium (ICGC) database verified the performance of the HCC-MLPM (AUC=0.776). Significantly, the HCC-MLPM exhibited predictive capacity for patient response to immunotherapy and clinical drug efficacy (P &lt; 0.05).ConclusionThis study offers comprehensive insights into HCC prognosis and develops predictive models to enhance patient outcomes. The evaluation of immune function, immune cell infiltration, and clinical drug responsiveness enhances our comprehension and management of HCC.
Phenolic phytochemistry, in vitro, in silico, in vivo, and mechanistic anti-inflammatory and antioxidant evaluations of Habenaria digitata
Authors: Almasoudi Hassan Hussain , Saeed Jan Muhammad , Nahari Mohammed H. , Alhazmi Abdulfattah Yahya M. , Binshaya Abdulkarim S. , Abdulaziz Osama , Mahnashi Mater H. , Ibrar Muhammad , Zafar Rehman , Sadiq Abdul 
Published: February 2024

Excessive and imbalance of free radicals within the body lead to inflammation. The objective of the current research work was to explore the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant potential of the isolated compounds from Habenaria digitata. In this study, the isolated phenolic compounds were investigated for in vitro and in vivo anti-inflammatory potential along with the antioxidant enzyme. The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant potential of the phenolic compounds was assayed via various enzymes like COX-1/2, 5-LOX and ABTS, DPPH, and H2O2 free radical enzyme inhibitory assay. These compounds were also explored for their in vivo antioxidant activity like examining SOD, CAT, GSH-Px, and MDA levels in the brain, heart, and liver. The anti-inflammatory potential was evaluated using the carrageenan-induced pleurisy model in mice. On the basis of initial screening of isolated compounds, the most potent compound was further evaluated for the anti-inflammatory mechanism. Furthermore, the molecular docking study was also performed for the potent compound. The phenolic compounds were isolated and identified by GC-MS/NMR analysis by comparing its spectra to the library spectra. The isolated phenolic compounds from H. digitata were 5-methylpyrimidine-24,4-diol (1), 3,5-dihydroxy-6-methyl-2,3-dihydropyran-4-one (2), 2-isopropyl-5-methylphenol (3), 3-methoxy-4-vinylphenol (4), and 2,6-dimethoxy-4-vinylphenol (5). In in vitro antioxidant assay, the most potent compound was compound 1 having IC50 values of 0.98, 0.90, and 5 μg/mL against ABTS, DPPH, and H2O2, respectively. Similarly, against COX1/2 and 5-LOX ,compound 1 was again the potent compound with IC50 values of 42.76, 10.70, and 7.40 μg/mL. Based on the in vitro results, compound 1 was further evaluated for in vivo antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential. Findings of the study suggest that H. digitata contains active compounds with potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. These compounds could be screened as drug candidates for pharmaceutical research, targeting conditions associated with oxidative stress and inflammatory conditions in medicinal chemistry and support their ethnomedicinal use for inflammation and oxidative stress.
miR-146a is a critical target associated with multiple biological pathways of skin aging
Authors: Stafa Klodjan , Rella Antonella , Eagle Whitby , Dong Kelly , Morris Kelsey , Layman Dawn , Corallo Krystle , Trivero Jacqueline , Maidhof Robert , Goyarts Earl , Pernodet Nadine 
Published: February 2024

Introduction: The skin is the largest organ of the human body and fulfills protective, immune, and metabolic functions. Skin function and barrier integrity are actively regulated through circadian rhythm–associated genes and epigenetic mechanisms including DNA methylation/demethylation, histone acetylation/deacetylation, and microRNAs. MicroRNA-146a-5p (miR-146a) has been associated with immune activation and skin inflammation; however, the role of miR-146a in regulating skin aging is an open question. This study investigated the role of miR-146a in fibroblasts obtained from different donors in the context of aging, and a potential association of this miRNA with circadian rhythm.Methods: Normal human dermal fibroblasts (NHDFs) from 19y, 27y, 40y, and 62y old donors were used to analyze for miR-146a expression. Expression of miR-146a was downregulated with the hsa-mirVana miR-146a inhibitor, and upregulated with an extract from Adansonia digitata. Effects on markers of skin aging, including cell proliferation, production of Collagen-1 and inflammatory cytokines were assessed.Results: We show that the expression of miR-146a decreases with age in dermal fibroblasts and inhibition of miR-146a in 19y and 62y old NHDFs induced significant changes in essential clock genes indicating an association with circadian rhythm control. Furthermore, downregulation of miR-146a results in a reduction of cellular proliferation, Collagen-1 production, as well as an increase in DNA damage and pro-inflammatory markers. Activation of miR-146a with the Adansonia digitata extract reduced the deleterious effects seen during miR-146a inhibition and increased miR-146a transport through exosome transfer.Conclusion: miR-146a interacts with multiple biological pathways related to skin aging, including circadian rhythm machinery, cell-to-cell communication, cell damage repair, cell proliferation, and collagen production and represents a promising target to fight skin aging. Adansonia digitata extract can promote miR-146a expression and therefore support skin cells’ health.
Advanced deep learning models for phenotypic trait extraction and cultivar classification in lychee using photon-counting micro-CT imaging
Authors: Xue Mengjia , Huang Siyi , Xu Wenting , Xie Tianwu 
Published: February 2024

IntroductionIn contemporary agronomic research, the focus has increasingly shifted towards non-destructive imaging and precise phenotypic characterization. A photon-counting micro-CT system has been developed, which is capable of imaging lychee fruit at the micrometer level and capturing a full energy spectrum, thanks to its advanced photon-counting detectors.MethodsFor automatic measurement of phenotypic traits, seven CNN-based deep learning models including AttentionUNet, DeeplabV3+, SegNet, TransUNet, UNet, UNet++, and UNet3+ were developed. Machine learning techniques tailored for small-sample training were employed to identify key characteristics of various lychee species.ResultsThese models demonstrate outstanding performance with Dice, Recall, and Precision indices predominantly ranging between 0.90 and 0.99. The Mean Intersection over Union (MIoU) consistently falls between 0.88 and 0.98. This approach served both as a feature selection process and a means of classification, significantly enhancing the study's ability to discern and categorize distinct lychee varieties.DiscussionThis research not only contributes to the advancement of non-destructive plant analysis but also opens new avenues for exploring the intricate phenotypic variations within plant species.
The role of doulas in supporting perinatal mental health – a qualitative study
Authors: Quiray Joanne , Richards Elizabeth , Navarro-Aguirre Yesenia , Glazer Debra , Adachi Jamie , Trujillo Emily , Perera Dila , Garcia Elizabeth Perez , Bhat Amritha 
Published: February 2024

ObjectiveThe perinatal period presents several opportunities to identify and treat perinatal mental health and substance use disorders by integrating into existing care pathways. We aimed to examine the role of birth doulas in supporting their clients’ perinatal mental health.MethodsThematic content analysis of focus groups with doulas, and interviews with doula clients was used to characterize the doula-client relationship, investigate whether and how doulas provide mental health and substance use support, and identify barriers and recommendations for doulas to support their clients’ mental health. Participants were doula clients from communities underserved due to race, income, language and culture.ResultsDoulas and clients reported positive relationships, supported by congruence in culture, language, and lived experiences. Doulas varied in their confidence in identifying perinatal mental health problems, though most agreed that doulas could support their clients’ mental health to different degrees. Barriers to engaging in perinatal mental health treatments included low perceived need and socio-economic burden.ConclusionsWith adequate support and training, doulas can play an important role in supporting their client’s emotional well-being.
Pilot trial results of D-HOMES: a behavioral-activation based intervention for diabetes medication adherence and psychological wellness among people who have been homeless
Authors: Vickery Katherine Diaz , Gelberg Lillian , Hyson Audrey Rose , Strother Ella , Carter Jill , Oranday Perez Oscar , Franco Moncies , Kavistan Silvio , Gust Susan , Adair Edward , Anderson-Campbell Ali’Cia , Brito Lelis , Butler Annette , Robinson Tahiti , Connett John , Evans Michael D. , Emmons Karen M. , Comulada W. Scott , Busch Andrew M. 
Published: February 2024

IntroductionPeople living with type 2 diabetes who experience homelessness face a myriad of barriers to engaging in diabetes self-care behaviors that lead to premature complications and death. This is exacerbated by high rates of comorbid mental illness, substance use disorder, and other physical health problems. Despite strong evidence to support lay health coach and behavioral activation, little research has effectively engaged people living with type 2 diabetes who had experienced homelessness (DH).MethodsWe used community engaged research and incremental behavioral treatment development to design the Diabetes HOmeless MEdication Support (D-HOMES) program, a one-on-one, 3 month, coaching intervention to improve medication adherence and psychological wellness for DH. We present results of our pilot randomized trial (with baseline, 3 mo., 6 mo. assessments) comparing D-HOMES to enhanced usual care (EUC; brief diabetes education session and routine care; NCT05258630). Participants were English-speaking adults with type 2 diabetes, current/recent (&lt;24 mo.) homelessness, and an HbA1c‗7.5%. We focused on feasibility (recruitment, retention, engagement) and acceptability (Client Satisfaction Questionnaire, CSQ-8). Our primary clinical outcome was glycemic control (HbA1c) and primary behavioral outcome was medication adherence. Secondary outcomes included psychological wellness and diabetes self-care.ResultsThirty-six eligible participants enrolled, 18 in each arm. Most participants identified as Black males, had high rates of co-morbidities, and lived in subsidized housing. We retained 100% of participants at 3-months, and 94% at 6-months. Participants reported high satisfaction (mean CSQ-8 scores=28.64 [SD 3.94] of 32). HbA1c reduced to clinically significant levels in both groups, but we found no between group differences. Mean blood pressure improved more in D-HOMES than EUC between baseline and 6 mo. with between group mean differences of systolic -19.5 mmHg (p=0.030) and diastolic blood pressure -11.1 mmHg (p=0.049). We found no significant between group differences in other secondary outcomes.ConclusionWe effectively recruited and retained DH over 6 months. Data support that the D-HOMES intervention was acceptable and feasible. We observe preliminary blood pressure improvement favoring D-HOMES that were statistically and clinically significant. D-HOMES warrants testing in a fully powered trial which could inform future high quality behavioral trials to promote health equity.Clinical trial registrationhttps://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05258630?term=D-HOMES&amp;rank=1, identifier NCT05258630.