bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Improving aboveground biomass maps of tropical dry forests by integrating LiDAR, ALOS PALSAR, climate and field data
Authors: Hernández-Stefanoni J. Luis , Castillo-Santiago Miguel Ángel , Mas Jean Francois , Wheeler Charlotte E. , Andres-Mauricio Juan , Tun-Dzul Fernando , George-Chacón Stephanie P. , Reyes-Palomeque Gabriela , Castellanos-Basto Blanca , Vaca Raúl , Dupuy Juan Manuel 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
Background
Reliable information about the spatial distribution of aboveground biomass (AGB) in tropical forests is fundamental for climate change mitigation and for maintaining carbon stocks. Recent AGB maps at continental and national scales have shown large uncertainties, particularly in tropical areas with high AGB values. Errors in AGB maps are linked to the quality of plot data used to calibrate remote sensing products, and the ability of radar data to map high AGB forest. Here we suggest an approach to improve the accuracy of AGB maps and test this approach with a case study of the tropical forests of the Yucatan peninsula, where the accuracy of AGB mapping is lower than other forest types in Mexico. To reduce the errors in field data, National Forest Inventory (NFI) plots were corrected to consider small trees. Temporal differences between NFI plots and imagery acquisition were addressed by considering biomass changes over time. To overcome issues related to saturation of radar backscatter, we incorporate radar texture metrics and climate data to improve the accuracy of AGB maps. Finally, we increased the number of sampling plots using biomass estimates derived from LiDAR data to assess if increasing sample size could improve the accuracy of AGB estimates.

Results
Correcting NFI plot data for both small trees and temporal differences between field and remotely sensed measurements reduced the relative error of biomass estimates by 12.2%. Using a machine learning algorithm, Random Forest, with corrected field plot data, backscatter and surface texture from the L-band synthetic aperture radar (PALSAR) installed on the on the Advanced Land Observing Satellite-1 (ALOS), and climatic water deficit data improved the accuracy of the maps obtained in this study as compared to previous studies (R2 = 0.44 vs R2 = 0.32). However, using sample plots derived from LiDAR data to increase sample size did not improve accuracy of AGB maps (R2 = 0.26).

Conclusions
This study reveals that the suggested approach has the potential to improve AGB maps of tropical dry forests and shows predictors of AGB that should be considered in future studies. Our results highlight the importance of using ecological knowledge to correct errors associated with both the plot-level biomass estimates and the mismatch between field and remotely sensed data.
Patients with ACVR1R206H mutations have an increased prevalence of cardiac conduction abnormalities on electrocardiogram in a natural history study of Fibrodysplasia Ossificans Progressiva
Authors: Kou Samuel , De Cunto Carmen , Baujat Geneviève , Wentworth Kelly L. , Grogan Donna R. , Brown Matthew A. , Di Rocco Maja , Keen Richard , Al Mukaddam Mona , le Quan Sang Kim-Hanh , Masharani Umesh , Kaplan Frederick S. , Pignolo Robert J. , Hsiao Edward C. 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
Background
Genetic contributors to cardiac arrhythmias are often found in cardiovascular conduction pathways and ion channel proteins. Fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva (FOP) is an ultra-rare disease of massive heterotopic ossification caused by a highly recurrent R206H mutation in ACVR1/ALK2. This mutation causes abnormal activation of the bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) pathway in response to Activin A. Prior studies suggested increased risks of cardiopulmonary complications in FOP. We examined participants in a Natural History Study (NHS) of FOP (ClinicalTrials.gov #NCT02322255) to better understand their cardiovascular status.

Methods
The NHS is an ongoing 3 year international multi-center longitudinal study of 114 patients (ages 4–56 years) with genetically confirmed ACVR1/ALK2R206H FOP. Patients were clinically assessed at baseline and 12 months. Electrocardiograms (ECGs) were reviewed in a central ECG laboratory. Conduction abnormalities were compared against clinical data collected in the NHS, and echocardiograms collected from NHS and non-NHS patients.

Results
Conduction abnormalities were present in 45.3% of baseline ECGs, with the majority of abnormalities classified as nonspecific intraventricular conduction delay (37.7%). More specifically, 22.2% of patients > 18 years old had conduction abnormalities, which was significantly higher than a prior published study of a healthy population (5.9%; n = 3978) (p < 0.00001). Patients with FOP < 18 years old also had a high prevalence of conduction abnormalities (62.3%). The 12-month follow up data was similar to baseline results. Conduction abnormalities did not correlate with chest wall deformities, scoliosis, pulmonary function test results, or increased Cumulative Analog Joint Involvement Scale scores. Echocardiograms from 22 patients with FOP revealed 8 with structural cardiac abnormalities, only 1 of which correlated with a conduction abnormality.

Conclusions
We found that patients with FOP may have subclinical conduction abnormalities manifesting on ECG, independent of heterotopic ossification. Although clinically significant heart disease is not typically associated with FOP, and the clinical implications for cardiovascular risk remain unclear, knowledge about ECG and echocardiogram changes is important for clinical care and research trials in patients with FOP. Further studies on how ACVR1/ALK2R206H affects cardiac health will help elucidate the underlying mechanism.
Self-stigma and medication adherence among patients with mental illness treated at Jimma University Medical Center, Southwest Ethiopia
Authors: Abdisa Eba , Fekadu Ginenus , Girma Shimelis , Shibiru Tesfaye , Tilahun Temesgen , Mohamed Habib , Wakgari Aaga , Takele Amsalu , Abebe Milkias , Tsegaye Reta 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
Background
Self-stigma associated with mental illness has remained a global public health issue affecting social interactions, health care, productivity and acceptance among others. It is one of important factors contributing to non-adherence to medication that leads to increased hospitalization and higher healthcare costs. Hence, the study aimed to assess self-stigma and medication adherence among patients with mental illness treated at the psychiatric clinic of Jimma University Medical Center (JUMC).

Methods
A cross-sectional, community-level study was conducted at Jimma town. The patient’s data was collected from records between April and June 2017 and the collected data was analyzed using SPSS version 21. The Internalized Stigma of Mental Illness (ISMI) tool was utilized to measure internalized stigma. Linear regression analysis was performed to get the final model. Statistical significance association was considered at p-values less than 0.05 and 95% confidence interval was used.

Results
Males comprised more than half (61%) of the total sample of 300 respondents and with a mean age of 34.99 (SD ± 11.51) years. About one-third (32%) of patients had a working diagnosis of schizophrenia followed by major depressive disorder (24.3%). More than half of them, 182 (60.7%) were adherent to their psychotropic medication. The overall mean value of self-stigma was 2.16 (SD = 0.867) and 84 (28%) of the respondents had moderate to high self-stigma. Using ISMI the mean score of alienation was 2.26 (SD = 0.95), stereotype endorsement 2.14 (SD = 0.784), perceived discrimination 2.18 (SD = 0.90), social withdrawal 2.10 (SD = 0.857) and stigma resistance 2.11 (SD = 0.844). Increasing age of the patients (std. β = − 0.091, p = 0.009) and living with kids and spouse (std. β = − 0.099, p = 0.038) were negatively associated with self-stigma whereas increased world health organization disability assessment schedule (WHODAS) score (β = 0.501, p < 0.001), number of relapses (std. β = 0.183, p < 0.01) and medication non-adherence (std. β = 0.084, p = 0.021) were positively associated with self-stigma.

Conclusion
The study revealed that there was high self-stigma among patients with mental illness and a significant association between overall ISMI score and level of medication adherence. These require mental health professionals and policy-makers should give attention to ways to overcome self-stigma and increase medication adherence among patients with mental illness.
An exploratory qualitative study of health professional perspectives on clinical outcomes in UK orthotic practice
Authors: Hall Natalie , Parker Daniel , Williams Anita 
Published: July 2020

AbstractBackgroundDespite potential savings to the National Health Service, the collection of data on outcomes of NHS orthotic services is patchy. Indeed, several reports into orthotic services in the UK have reported a lack of data relating to outcomes of care and highlighted the need to routinely measure outcomes to demonstrate efficacy of services. Whilst a previous study provided an overview of the use of outcome measures in orthotic practice and identified some barriers to their use, further questions emerged. Hence, this qualitative study aimed to explore orthotists' opinions and personal experiences on the influences on outcomes, how appropriate and relevant outcomes can be measured and also how barriers to the use of outcome measures can be overcome.MethodsFollowing a review of the literature, an initial advisory group informed semi‐structured questions. These were used to create dialogue in a focus group of 12 orthotists. Data from the focus group was transcribed verbatim and analysed using thematic analysis, creating themes and subthemes for discussion.ResultsThe setting of realistic and agreed goals through managing expectations, compromise and patient education/information were seen as factors that could inform and improve outcomes. Barriers to the collection of outcome measures were associated with inadequate technology to manage the data, lack of time to complete them, lack of training in them and difficulties selecting appropriate outcome measures for patients with complex problems managed by different health professionals. The participants discussed ways of addressing these barriers, such as the use of ‘snapshots' and delegation of data collection.ConclusionsThis study has revealed that measuring outcomes is considered to be an important activity. In order to achieve good outcomes, it is important to address patient expectations, discuss and establish joint goals for care at the outset and inform and include patients in the decision‐making process. The identified barriers to measuring outcomes can be overcome with the solutions revealed by these participants. Hence, this study has contributed to current knowledge which has relevance for clinical practice and may provide the theoretical basis for future research.
Platelet concentrate and type II IL-1 receptor are risk factors for allergic transfusion reactions in children
Authors: Hu Wenjing , Feng Li , Li Meng , Li Ting , Dai Yudong , Wang Xiaowei 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
Purpose
Allergic transfusion reactions (ATRs) are immunological reactions after transfusion. Interleukin-1 (IL-1) is a critical regulator for human diseases. We performed this study to investigate the association of type II IL-1 decoy receptor (IL1R2) expression with ATRs in children.

Methods
Children received blood transfusions between January and December 2019 were included. The age, sex, number and type of blood transfusion, allergic history, and medical history were collected and statistically analyzed. The blood samples were collected from children with and without ATRs for detecting the relative expression IL1R2 mRNA. Logistics regression analysis was performed to identify the risk factors for ATRs in children. The area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve (AUC) was used to evaluate the predictive performance of risk factors.

Results
Totally, 28,840 transfusions in 20,230 children, with 236 ATRs (0.82%) in 117 patients (0.58%) were included. ATRs were common in children at the hematology-oncology department, in children received higher number of blood transfusions, and older children. Platelet concentrate induced a higher incidence of ATRs (3.31%) than red cell concentrate (0.22%, p < 0.0001). After the transfusion, IL1R2 mRNA level was higher in the blood samples in children with ATRs than those without ATRs (p < 0.0001). Logistics regression analysis indicated that platelet concentrate (95% CI 3.555, 293.782) and IL1R2 expression (95% CI 1.171 × 102, 1.494 × 104) were independent risk factors for ATRs in children. IL1R2 expression had high performance in predicting ATRs (AUC = 0.998, 100% sensitivity and 98.85% specificity).

Conclusion
High IL1R2 expression level in children who received blood transfusions may predict the morbidity of ATR.
Research on allergic rhinitis improvement in asthmatic children after dust mite exposure reduction: a randomized, double-blind, cross-placebo study protocol
Authors: Chen Ming , Wu YuFen , Yuan Shuhua , Chen Jiande , Li Luanluan , Wu Jinhong , Zhang Jing , Yin Yong 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
Background
Allergic rhinitis (AR) in children is a major respiratory inflammatory disease with a high incidence that is increasing yearly. In China, 54.93% of children with asthma have AR, which often requires synchronous treatment. House dust mites (HDMs) are common allergens that often cause attacks of AR and asthma. Reducing allergen exposure is one of the most important measures to control and treat AR and asthma attacks. Hestelia Mite Bait, containing 0.1% emamectin, is a new tool for trapping and killing dust mites, reducing the number of dust mites on mattresses and thereby potentially reducing stimulation by allergens and ultimately improving asthma and rhinitis symptoms. This single-centre, randomized, double-blind, cross-placebo trial will explore the improvement in AR in asthmatic children after dust mite exposure reduction.

Methods
We will recruit 60 children (aged 3–12 years) who have been diagnosed with AR and asthma and are allergic to dust mites as confirmed by a serum allergen test. Participants will randomly receive the Hestelia Mite Bait intervention for 8 weeks and the placebo intervention for 8 weeks. There will be a 4-week washout period between the two interventions. The primary outcome is the visual analogue scale (VAS) score of AR symptoms; the secondary outcomes include the Rhinitis Control Assessment Test (RCAT) score, Rhinoconjunctivitis Quality of Life Questionnaire (RQLQ) score, changes in the dust mite level, drug usage for asthma and AR, Asthma Control Questionnaire-5 (ACQ-5) score, and frequencies of acute asthma attacks, emergency visits, and hospitalizations.

Discussion
This study aims to scientifically and objectively evaluate the effects of mite bait on rhinitis and asthma improvement after dust mite exposure reduction and provides a convenient means for future prevention and treatment of allergic diseases involving the airways in children.

Trial registration
www.chictr.org.cn ChiCTR1900024688. Registered on July 21, 2019
Rapid detection of Babesia motasi responsible for human babesiosis by cross-priming amplification combined with a vertical flow
Authors: Wang Jinming , Gao Shandian , Zhang Shangdi , He Xin , Liu Junlong , Liu Aihong , Li Youquan , Liu Guangyuan , Luo Jianxun , Guan Guiquan , Yin Hong 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
Background
Babesia motasi is known as an etiological agent of human and ovine babesiosis. Diagnosis of babesiosis is traditionally performed by microscopy, examining Giemsa-stained thin peripheral blood smears. Rapid detection and accurate identification of species are desirable for clinical care and epidemiological studies.

Methods
An easy to operate molecular method, which requires less capital equipment and incorporates cross-priming amplification combined with a vertical flow (CPA-VF) visualization strip for rapid detection and identification of B. motasi.

Results
The CPA-VF targets the 18S rRNA gene and has a detection limit of 50 fg per reaction; no cross reaction was observed with other piroplasms infective to sheep or Babesia infective to humans. CPA-VF and real-time (RT)-PCR had sensitivities of 95.2% (95% confidence interval, CI 78.1–99.4%) and 90.5% (95% CI 72–97.6%) and specificities of 95.8 (95% CI 80.5–99.5%) and 97.9 (95% CI 83.5–99.9%), respectively, versus microscopy and nested (n) PCR combined with gene sequencing. The clinical performance of the CPA-VF assay was evaluated with field blood samples from sheep (n = 340) in Jintai county, Gansu Province, and clinical specimens (n = 492) obtained from patients bitten by ticks.

Conclusions
Our results indicate that the CPA-VF is a rapid, accurate, nearly instrument-free molecular diagnostic approach for identification of B. motasi. Therefore, it could be an alternative technique for epidemiological investigations and diagnoses of ovine and/or human babesiosis caused by B. motasi, especially in resource-limited regions.
Strigea robusta causes polydactyly and severe forms of Rostand’s anomaly P in water frogs
Authors: Svinin Anton O. , Bashinskiy Ivan V. , Litvinchuk Spartak N. , Ermakov Oleg A. , Ivanov Alexander Yu. , Neymark Leonid A. , Vedernikov Aleksander A. , Osipov Vitalij V. , Drobot Galina P. , Dubois Alain 
Published: July 2020

AbstractBackgroundCases of polydactyly in natural populations of amphibians have attracted great interest from biologists. At the end of the 1940s, the French biologist Jean Rostand discovered a polymorphic syndrome in some water frog (Anura:Pelophylax) populations that included polydactyly and some severe morphological anomalies (he called it ‘anomaly P’). The cause of this anomaly remains unknown for 70 years. In a previous study, we obtained anomaly P in the laboratory in tadpoles of water frogs that developed together with molluscsPlanorbarius corneus(Mollusca: Gastropoda) collected in the field. We thus proposed the ‘trematode hypothesis’, according to which the infectious agent responsible for anomaly P is a trematode species.MethodsMetacercariae from tadpoles with anomaly P were identified using ITS2 gene sequencing asStrigea robusta(Trematoda: Strigeidae). To verify teratogenic features of the species, cercariae ofS. robustawere tested for the possibility to cause anomalies. Identification of cercariae species was made using morphological and molecular methods (sequencing of ITS2 and28SrRNA). The tadpoles were exposed to parasites at four doses of cercariae (control, low, medium and high) and divided into two groups: “early” (at 25–27 Gosner stages) and “late” (at 29–34 Gosner stages) exposure.ResultsA total of 58 (72.5%) tadpoles survived until metamorphosis under the dose-dependent experiment with the trematodeS. robusta. Differences in the survival rates were observed between the exposed and unexposed tadpoles both in the group of “early” tadpoles and “late” tadpoles. The exposure of tadpoles to the cercariae ofS. robustainduced anomaly P in 82% of surviving tadpoles. The severe forms developed only in “early” stages under all doses of cercariae exposure. Polydactyly predominantly developed in the “late” stages; under a light exposure dose, polydactyly also developed in “early” tadpoles. Laboratory-hatched tadpoles reared together with infected snails had different rates of survival and complexity of deformations associated with the period of coexistence.ConclusionsThe experiments with direct cercariae exposure provide compelling evidence thatS. robustaleads to anomaly P in tadpoles of water frogs. The manifestation of anomaly P turned out to be dependent on the stage of development, cercariae dose, and the location of the cysts.
Stochastic patch structure Nicholson’s blowflies system with mixed delays
Authors: Yin Honghui , Du Bo , Cheng Xiwang 
Published: July 2020

AbstractThis paper is devoted to studying a stochastic patch structure Nicholson’s blowflies system with mixed delays which is a new model for the generalization of classic Nicholson’s blowflies system. We examine stochastically ultimate boundedness and global asymptotic stability for the considered model by stochastic analysis technique. Finally, numerical simulations verify theoretical results of the present paper.
Evaluating the effect of TLR4-overexpressing on the transcriptome profile in ovine peripheral blood mononuclear cells
Authors: Guo Xiaofei , Zhang Jinlong , Li Yao , Yang Jing , Li Yihai , Dong Chunxiao , Liu Guoshi , Lian Zhengxing , Zhang Xiaosheng 
Published: July 2020

AbstractBackgroundToll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) plays an important role in the elimination of Gram-negative bacteria infections and the initiation of antiinflammatory response. Using the technology of pronuclear microinjection, genetically modified (GM) sheep withTLR4overexpression were generated. Previous studies have shown that these GM sheep exhibited a higher inflammatory response to Gram-negative bacteria infection than wild type (WT) sheep. In order to evaluate the gene expression of GM sheep and study the co-expressed and downstream genes forTLR4, peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) fromTLR4-overexpressing (Tg) and wild type (WT) sheep were selected to discover the transcriptomic differences using RNA-Seq.ResultAn average of 18,754 and 19,530 known genes were identified in the Tg and WT libraries, respectively. A total of 338 known genes and 85 novel transcripts were found to be differentially expressed in the two libraries (p < 0.01). A differentially expressed genes (DEGs) enrichment analysis showed that the GO terms of inflammatory response, cell recognition, etc. were significantly (FDR < 0.05) enriched. Furthermore, the above DEGs were significantly (FDR < 0.05) enriched in the sole KEGG pathway of the Phagosome. Real-time PCR showed theOLR1,TLR4andCD14genes to be differentially expressed in the two groups, which validated the DEGs data.ConclusionsThe RNA-Seq results revealed that the overexpressedTLR4in our experiment strengthened the ovine innate immune response by increasing the phagocytosis in PBMC.