bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Optimization&nbsp;of Scanning Scheme for Low-height Vegetation Survey Based on Terrestrial Laser Scanning - A Case Study on the Restored Sand Land, Southern Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Tian Jiarong , Li Haidong , Ma Weibo , Liao Chengrui , Xu Yannan 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Background: In recent decades, vegetation surveys based on terrestrial laser scanning (TLS) have developed rapidly, especially on the forest inventory, but few studies have been conducted to the low-height vegetation. Because of the high investigation cost and subjectivity, it is impending to provide a scientific scanning scheme based on the TLS for the low-height vegetation survey (e.g. shrub, grassland, and meadow) in eco-fragile region (e.g. Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau). Method: In this study, we extracted the vegetation parameter i.e., number, height (H), and crown width (CW) of the two sample plots to evaluate the integrity of the data collected by TLS, on the restored sand land in southern Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau. We assessed the difference between the scanning mode of single-scan (SS) and multiple-scan (MS), and evaluated the influence of terrain fluctuation (windward slope, leeward slope, and the peak of slope) on the determination of scanning spots.Results: The results showed that: (1) the accuracy of vegetation parameter extracted by the mode of SS was mainly affected by the occlusion and the distance from central scanning spot, the RMSE of vegetation parameters is the smallest (RMSEH = 0.186 m; RMSECW = 0.208 m) within 20 m from the central scanning spot. (2) For the MS mode, in addition to the central scanning spot, the scanning spot located at the peak of the slope is the most important, which was the connection of combining the data of windward slope and leeward slope.Conclusion: To sum up, the scientific layout of scanning spot is the key to collecting data by TLS efficiently, and topography is the main factor affecting the layout of scanning spot. Since occlusion effect cannot be avoided, it can only be compensated by setting up more scanning points. Secondly, the accuracy of different sensors will has influence on the distance between adjacent scanning spots.
Long-term Variability in Cardiometabolic and Inflammatory Parameters and Cognitive Decline: The English Longitudinal Study of Ageing
Authors: Zhou Rui , Liu Hua-Min , Li Fu-Rong , Yu Jing-Rong , Yuan Ze-Lin , Zheng Jia-Zhen , Wu Xian-Bo 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Background The relationship between variability in cardiometabolic and inflammatory parameters and cognitive changes is unknown. We aimed to investigate the association of visit-to-visit variability (VVV) in body mass index (BMI), waist-to-height ratio (WHtR), systolic blood pressure (SBP), total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), ferritin, as well as the composite effect of the VVV in these parameters on cognitive decline. Methods We performed a longitudinal study using data from adults aged 50 years and older in the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing (ELSA). Biomarkers were assessed at waves 2 (baseline, 2004/2005), 4 (2008/2009), 6 (2012/2013), 8 (2014-2016) and 9 (2018/2019). Cognitive function, including memory, executive function and orientation, were measured. VVV was expressed as the coefficient of variation (CV), standard deviation (SD), and variability independent of the mean (VIM) across visits conducted at a mean interval of 3.5 years. To explore the composite effect of parameter variability, we generated a variability score (range: 0-24), where 0 points were assigned for Q1, 1 point for Q2, 2 points for Q3, and 3 points for Q4 each for the variability of eight parameters measured as VIM. Participants were divided based on quartiles of variability score. Linear mixed models were used to evaluate longitudinal associations. Results A total of 2366 participants (56.1% women, mean age 63.0 ± 7.5 years) with at least three measurements of biomarkers were included, and the mean follow-up duration was 11.2 ± 2.0 years. Higher BMI, SBP, TC, HbA1c and ferritin variability was linearly associated with global and domain-specific cognitive decline irrespective of their mean values over time. Additionally, compared with the lowest quartile, participants in the highest quartile of variability score had a significantly worse global cognitive decline rate (-0.0238, 95% CI -0.0376, -0.0100), memory decline rate (-0.0224, 95% CI -0.0319, -0.0129) and orientation decline rate (-0.0129, 95% CI -0.0245, -0.0012).Conclusions Higher variability in cardiometabolic and inflammatory parameters was significantly associated with cognitive decline, and the composite effect of these parameters was evident. Stabilizing these parameters may serve as a target to preserve cognitive function.
Panax Notoginseng Saponins Exert Anti-osteosarcoma Effect by Inhibiting G0 / G1 Phase and Affecting p53-mediated Autophagy and Mitochondrial Apoptosis
Authors: Han Guangtao , Liu Ting 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
BackgroundOsteosarcoma is the most common primary bone malignancy. Chemotherapy for osteosarcoma often induces severe complications to the patients. Thus, the identification of new effective antineoplastic agents with fewer side effects remain a necessity. Panax notoginseng saponins (PNS) were therapeutic active components of panax notoginseng and were reported taking the capability to inhibit the growth of several tumors in vitro and in vivo. However, its effect on osteosarcoma has not been studied. This study first investigated the effect of PNS on osteosarcoma cells.MethodsCCK-8 essay used to determine the appropriate working concentration of PNS on osteosarcoma,annixV-FITC/PI experiment used to measure the apoptosis of PNS on osteosarcoma, wound healing assay was used to detect the migration of PNS on osteosarcoma, cell invasiveness was measured by transwell essay,cell cycle was measured by PI,the expression of relative protein was shown by western blot.ResultsOur result indicated that PNS inhibited osteosarcoma cells’ proliferation, invasion and migration, promoted their apoptosis. Besides, PNS also increased mitochondrial membrane potential and the level of reactive oxygen species. Cell cycle of osteosarcoma was arrested in G0 / G1 phase after treatment with PNS. The expression of p53, and mitochondrial related apoptosis proteins were promoted; however, decreased autophagy in osteosarcoma cells with PNS treatment were observed.ConclusionTaking the above effect of PNS on osteosarcoma, PNS were of the potential therapeutic value for treatment of osteosarcoma.
Residual and Fumigant Effects of Bendiocarb WP80&nbsp;in a Malarious Areas in Borderline of Iran and Pakistan&nbsp;&nbsp;
Authors: Abai Mohammad Reza , Vatandoost Hassan , Dorzadeh Hossein , Shayeghi Mansoreh , Hanafi-bojd Ahmad Ali , Raeisi Ahmad 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Background: Malaria and leishmaniasis are the public health problems in southern Iran. The main activity of vector control is indoor residual spraying using pyrethrpids. The aim of study was to evaluate the biological assays of bendiocarb WP at different surfaces of wall. Materials and Methods: The residual effect of bendicocarb WP80 at 400 mg/m2 was evauated on various local surfaces of rooms such as mud and plaster as well as thatch roofs and wooden. WHO standard cones using contact bioassays were carried out using laboratory reared sugar-fed, 48-72 h old females of Anopheles stephensi . Contact bioassays were carried out on sprayed surfaces for 150 days.Results: Contact bioassay on surfaces treated with bendicocarb WP80 diffferent surfaces was estimated about 2 months. Fumigant tests of bendicocarb WP80 at 400 mg/m2 revealed 50-93.83% mortality with one month persistency.Discussion: The rsults hsowed that carbamte insecticide could be used as rotation with pyrethroids for malaria vector control .
Public Perceptions and Attitudes of Bangladeshi Population towards Thalassemia Prevention: A Nationwide Study
Authors: Alam Nur-E- , Islam Md Shariful , Suriea Umme , Mohiuddin Ramisa Binti , Islam Md. Muzahidul , Akter Sumaiya , Aktar Salma , Mahamud Nahid , Nasif Omaima , Alharbi Sulaiman Ali , Batiha Gaber El-Saber , Bappy Md. Nazmul Islam , Sardar Dipankar , Khatun Mst. Mahmuda , Chowdhury Kamal , Mohiuddin A. K. M. 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Background: Thalassemia is one of the most common life-threatening yet preventable congenital hemoglobin disorders especially in South Asian regions like Bangladesh. It has become a rising public health concern for Bangladesh as 6-12% of the population are carriers and many of them are unaware of it. The purpose of the study is to inspect the knowledge and attitude towards thalassemia among the general people of Bangladesh. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted in eight administrative regions of Bangladesh between January and October of 2020. A self-administrative close-ended questionnaire was designed to collect information about thalassemia and socio-demographic characteristics. Pearson’s chi-square (χ2) test and One-way ANOVA were performed to assess the association between the demographic variables with knowledge and practice regarding thalassemia. A p-value <0.05 was considered significant.Results: Of the 1623 participants, only 44.7% (726/1623) had heard of thalassemia. The mean knowledge of thalassemia was scored 4.75 ± 2.05 out of a total possible score of 10. Half of the participants had no idea that thalassemia was not a transfusion transmitted disease. About 73.1% knew that blood tests are a diagnosis process to determine thalassemia. The urban residing participants had the highest (5.10 ± 1.99) and participants with primary education had the lowest (3.38 ± 1.37) mean score of knowledge. Participants' knowledge score varied significantly by marital status, living pace, literacy and occupation (p< 0.05). However, about 68.2% and 85.5% of the participants showed a positive attitude towards premarital screening of themselves or their family members and donating blood to thalassemia patients, respectively. Conclusion: The study shows that there is a need to disseminate the information on thalassemia since the knowledge gap is huge among people. These findings will assist the implementation of significant steps such as educational programs, health counseling, premarital screening, campaigning, etc. to increase the awareness of thalassemia.
Development and Pilot-testing of a Hepatitis C Reinfection Prevention Intervention for Patients in Treatment for Hepatitis C Infection
Authors: Viera Adam Christopher , Grau Lauretta E. , Fisher Jeffrey D. , Farnum Scott O. , Tetrault Jeanette M. , Scott Greg , Heimer Robert 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Background: With annual rates of hepatitis C virus (HCV) reinfection among persons who inject drugs ranging from 5% to 22%, the need for behavioral interventions to prevent reinfection following successful treatment is clear. Methods: This report aims to describe the conception and development of an intervention to prevent HCV reinfection and present preliminary results from its pilot testing at an opioid treatment program offering on-site primary medical care, including treatment for HCV infection. We developed a two-session intervention combining a teachable moment followed by a session based on the Information-Motivation-Behavioral Skills (IMB) Model to reinforce learning. The teachable moment occurs in less than ten minutes during the routine blood draw to measure viral load during HCV treatment. The reinforcing IMB session builds knowledge, motivation, and self-efficacy in practicing safer injection skills. Formative exploratory work for the intervention involved a literature review, planning meetings with implementation staff, and development of study materials. Intervention staff were trained and the intervention was pilot tested. Measured outcomes included feasibility and acceptability of the intervention to patients and implementers, study recruitment and retention, and preliminary changes in knowledge, motivation, self-efficacy, and HCV reinfection risk behaviors over the study time period. Results: The study protocol and intervention content are both described, along with the preliminary results of implementation and psychosocial outcomes among 17 patients undergoing direct-acting antiviral treatment for HCV. Baseline data revealed gaps in HCV prevention knowledge that could lead to reinfection. We also report lessons learned related to implementation of such an intervention with this population in integrated care settings. After some minor adjustments, we found high levels of feasibility and acceptability for the intervention at the implementing organization. Intervention implementation was interrupted due to COVID-19 restrictions. Conclusions: It is possible to implement an intervention in an opioid treatment program to improve HCV prevention knowledge with the potential to prevent reinfection. Intervention staff must be attentive to participant needs regarding time and monetary constraints to maximize acceptability. Given the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, future research should explore the possibility of offering the intervention via phone or video chat.
How&nbsp;to promote exclusive breastfeeding in Ireland:&nbsp;a qualitative study&nbsp;on&nbsp;views of&nbsp;Chinese&nbsp;immigrant&nbsp;mothers&nbsp;&nbsp;
Authors: Chen Haoyue , Li Cheng , Zhou Qianling , Cassidy Tanya M. , Younger Katherine M. , Shen Siao , Kearney John M. 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Background: The exclusive breastfeeding rate in Ireland is very low with extremely slow annual growth. The population of immigrants in Ireland is increasing. Improving exclusive breastfeeding practice among immigrants may contribute to the overall improvement of exclusive breastfeeding rates in Ireland. This study was conducted to elicit suggestions on improving exclusive breastfeeding rate for six months among Chinese immigrants in Ireland. Methods: Fourteen semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted with Chinese immigrant mothers residing in Ireland, who breastfed exclusively for four to six months. Interviews were recorded and transcribed in Chinese. Data were analyzed using a qualitative thematic analysis. Themes were developed through categorization of codes and via in-depth discussion between two researchers. Results: Themes generated from the thematic content analysis were 1) suggestions for new mothers: being strong mentally and getting support from family and friends; 2) suggestions for employers: creating a supportive workplace by setting up private room and breastmilk storage facilities; 3) suggestions for health care professionals: advocating breastfeeding in the hospital and addressing cultural differences by recruiting multilingual staff; 4) suggestions for the government: promoting breastfeeding by initiating societal and policy changes. Conclusions: The key findings emerging from this study may be considered in the development of breastfeeding promotion strategies in Ireland. Our findings could also have implications for other English-speaking countries with low rates of exclusive breastfeeding.
Serum tenascin-C predicts resistance to steroid combination therapy in high-risk Kawasaki disease: A multicenter prospective cohort study
Authors: Yoshikane Yukako , Okuma Yoshiaki , Miyamoto Tatsuki , Hashimoto Junichi , Fukazawa Ryuji , Kato Taichi , Takeda Atsuhito , Suda Kenji , Matsushita Takeji , Hiroe Michiaki , Imanaka-Yoshida Kyoko 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Background: Tenascin-C (TN-C) is an extracellular matrix glycoprotein related to tissue inflammation. Our previous retrospective study conducted in 2016 revealed that the serum tenascin-C level was higher in patients with Kawasaki disease (KD) who were resistant to intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) and developed coronary artery lesions (CALs). The present study is a prospective cohort study to assess if the serum level of tenascin-C could be used as a novel biomarker to predict the risk of resistance to initial treatment for high-risk patients. Methods: A total of 380 KD patients were registered and provided serum samples for tenascin-C measurement before commencing their initial treatment. Patients who did not meet the inclusion criteria were excluded from analysis; of the 181 remaining subjects, there were 144 low-risk patients (Kobayashi score: ≤4 points) and 37 high-risk patients (Kobayashi score: ≥5 points). The initial treatments for low-risk patients and high-risk patients were conventional therapy (IVIG with aspirin) and prednisolone combination therapy, respectively. The patient clinical and laboratory data, including the serum tenascin-C level, were compared between initial treatment responders and non-responders. Results: In the low-risk patients, there was no significant difference in the median levels of serum tenascin-C between the initial therapy responders and non-responders. However, in the high-risk patients, the median serum tenascin-C level in initial therapy non-responders was significantly higher than that in initial therapy responders (175.8 ng/ml vs 117.6 ng/ml). Conclusions: Serum tenascin-C could be a biomarker for predicting the risk of high-risk patients being non-responsive to steroid combination therapy. Trial registration: This study was a prospective cohort study. It was approved by the ethics committee of each institute and performed in accordance with the Declaration of Helsinki.
circEPS15 Overexpression in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Modulates Tumor Invasion and Migration
Authors: Tian Maolin , Li Gang , Jiang Bin , Sadula Abuduhaibaier , Xiu Dianrong , Yuan Chunhui , Bing Yuntao 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
BackgroundHepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one kind of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths in the world. Recent evidence indicates that circular RNAs (circRNAs) play important roles in tissue development, gene transcription, signal regulation and tumorigenesis. However, whether circRNAs are involved in HCC progression and encode functional proteins remains largely unknown.MethodscircRNAs microarrays wereperformed using three pathologically diagnosed HCC samples and their paired adjacent normal liver tissues. Cell invasion, migration, cycle, and apoptosis post circRNA overexpression were measured using a transwell culture system, a wound healing assay, and flow cytometry. Full-length, mutated, and truncated sequences of circEPS15 with a FLAG tag were inserted into a circular expression vector. Western blotting was used to confirm circEPS15 expression and the requirement of internal ribosomal entry site (IRES) elements within the circRNA. The miRNA and mRNA expression profiles were obtained by analyzing data retrieved from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. We then constructed a ceRNA network ofcircEPS15, miRNAs, and mRNAs. ResultsThe expression of circEPS15 was downregulated in HCC tissues, and the survival curves showed that low circEPS15 levels were associated with poor overall survival in HCC patients. Overexpression of circEPS15 suppressed tumor invasion and migration by inhibiting the TJP1/CDH2/VIM signaling pathway and retarded cell cycle progression, yet had no effect on cell apoptosis. ceRNA analysis and qRT-PCR results suggest a possible circRNA (circEPS15)-miRNA (miR-24-3p)-mRNA (CIDEA) network in HCC. The spanning junction open reading frame in circEPS15 driven by IRES encoded a novel protein.ConclusionsEndogenous circEPS15 plays a novel role in repressing HCC through the ceRNA network and encoding a functional protein.
Comparative Proteomic Analysis of Hydrogen Peroxide-Induced Protein Expression in Streptococcus pneumoniae D39
Authors: Lee Sungkyoung , Lee Myoung-Ro , Bae Songmee , Kwak Min-Kyu 
Published: January 2021

Background:
Streptococcus pneumoniaeis a leading cause of human respiratory tract infection.
Despite the lack of activities of antioxidative enzymes, including cytochromes, hemoproteins,
and peroxidases/catalases, traits conferring the aerotolerant-anaerobic growth of this bacterium
are conserved, with the high efficacy of antioxidative actions, in an oxygen-rich environment.

Objective:
Through proteome analysis, this study's intention was to evaluate differentially expressed
proteins and/or gene products modeled in a highly virulent strain, S. pneumoniae D39, exogenously-
treated with millimolar concentrations of H2O2.

Method:
For two-dimensional gel electrophoresis (2-DE) analysis, following one dimensional isoelectric
focusing with an immobilized pH gradient of pH 4-7, the most significantly mobilized proteins
expressed were separated by SDS-PAGE in the second dimension. With a total of 431 protein
spots detected, certain proteins were excised, in-gel trypsin digested, and analyzed by combination
with MALDI-TOF and LC-ESI-MS/MS for mass spectrometric peptide mapping and protein identification.
Utilizing mass spectrometry analysis of spots excised from 2-DE, the selected protein
spots were identified with a variety of databases and MASCOT.

Results:
With the aid of comparisons to proteome reference maps, the most differentially expressed
38 proteins, those with approximately 1.4-fold or more increase and/or decrease or with
multiple isoforms exhibiting variable pI values, were induced by treatment of exogenous 2 mM
H2O2.The identified proteins were seen to be involved in pneumococcal pathogenesis and primary
metabolism, amongst others.

Conclusion:
This is the first study to convincingly document proteomic information associated
with pathophysiological adaptation under the given oxidative conditions, and corresponding potential
antioxidative mechanisms, in S. pneumoniae.
Hubungan Persepsi dengan Kualitas Hidup Pasien Hipertensi Lanjut Usia di RSUD Sultan Syarif Mohamad Alkadrie Pontianak
Authors: Pratiwi Nabilla Putri , Untari Eka Kartika , Robiyanto Robiyanto 
Published: January 2021

Hypertension is still a health problem for the elderly group. The misperception about hypertension still occurs to the elderly. They often ignore hypertension and it impact their quality of life. The aim of this study is to obtain patient perceptions and the elderly’s quality of life who are experiencing hypertension, also the relationship between patient perceptions and the elderly’s quality of life who are experiencing hypertension at Sultan Syarif Mohamad Alkadrie Hospital Pontianak. This study was observational with analytival survey design. EQ-5D-3L (EuroQol five dimensions and B-IPQ (Brief Illness Perception Questionnaire) Indonesian version are instruments used which were valid and reliable. The subjects were hypertensive outpatient attending Sultan Syarif Mohamad Alkadrie Hospital Pontianak at aged> 60 years. The sample size was 118 respondents which were obtained from purposive technique sampling. Data was collected through B-IPQ instruments to measure patient perceptions, and EQ-5D-3L to measure patients' quality of life. The relationship between perception and quality of life was analyzed using Fisher's Exact Test with a 95% confidence level (α = 0.05). The results showed the percentage of respondents who had a positive perception was 74.22%, and good quality of life was 76.56%. The results of statistical analysis show there is a significant relationship between patient perceptions and the quality of life of elderly patients who experience hypertension at Sultan Syarif Mohamad Alkadrie Hospital Pontianak with value of p = 0,000.