bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Higher BMI Indicated Better Overall Survival Prognosis of Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma: A Real-World Study Based on 2,010 Cases
Authors: FU Ningzhen , JIANG Yu , QIN Kai , DENG Xiaxing , CHEN Hao , Shen Baiyong 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Background: Whether body mass index (BMI) was associated with the overall survival (OS) of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) remained controversial and uncertain.Method: A total of 2,010 patients from single high-volume center were enrolled in the study. OS of PDAC patients was evaluated based on restricted cubic spline (RCS), propensity score (PS) and multivariable risk adjustment analyses. Result: BMI was discovered linear related with OS (total P=0.004, non-linear P=0.124). BMI was analyzed as categorical data based on X-tile software defined cutoffs and World Health Organization (WHO) recommended cutoffs, respectively. Adjusted with confounding covariates, higher BMI manifested as a positive prognostic predictor. (PXtile=0.003, PWHO=0.002) Furtherly, BMI was proven associated with OS in PS analysis. (UnderweightXtile vs. NormalXtile P=0.003, OverweightXtile vs. NormalXtile P=0.019; UnderweightWHO vs. NormalWHO P<0.001, OverweightWHO vs. NormalWHO P=0.024). It was also revealed that patients with higher BMI benefitted more from chemotherapy.(adjusted hazard ratio (aHR): UnderweightXtile: 0.565 (0.389-0.819), NormalXtile: 0.474 (0.395-0.567), OverweightXtile: 0.409 (0.337-0.496); UnderweightWHO: 0.613 (0.401-0.940), NormalWHO: 0.464 (0.387-0.557), OverweightWHO: 0.425 (0.353-0.512)). Conclusion: Among PDAC patients, higher BMI manifested as a favorable OS indicator, and the protective impact was probably based on chemotherapy administration. Patients with higher BMI were also observed with more chemotherapy administration and more OS benefits from chemotherapy.
Using Geoprocessing Techniques to Analyze the Geographic Distribution of Lutzomyia (Nyssomyia) Whitmani (Diptera: Psychodidae: Phlebotominae) Associated With Vegetation Cover, and the Impacts on the Expansion of American Cutaneous Leishmaniasis (ACL) In Brazil.&nbsp;
Authors: Costa Simone Miranda da , Magalhães Monica de Avelar Figueiredo Mafra , Carrijo Renata de Saldanha da Gama Gracie , Rangel Elizabeth Ferreira 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
BackgroundIn Brazil, due to new and complex epidemiologic scenarios, the focal and dynamic transmissions of American Cutaneous Leishmaniasis (ACL) occur in different patterns, depending on location. An important example of this phenomenon is the widespread distribution and various behavior patterns of Lutzomyia (Nyssomyia) whitmani, a vector that transmits three types of dermatropic leishmaniases: Leishmania (Viannia) braziliensis, Leishmania (Viannia) shawi and Leishmania (Viannia) guyanensis. This study aims to correlate different types of Brazilian vegetation with the spatial distribution of L. (N.) whitmani in the areas representing Spatial Circuits of Production for American Cutaneous Leishmaniasis (ACL).MethodsIn order to evaluate the ACL vigilance and monitoring model in Brazil, the Ministry of Health has analyzed the Spatial Circuit of the disease until 2013, currently adopting a classification of ACL transmission in municipalities that is based on the composite indicator of tegumentary leishmaniasis (ICLT). For this study, a Geographic Information System (GIS) was used to integrate the layers of L. (N.) whitmani’s geographic distribution with vegetation cover and Spatial Circuits of ACL in Brazilian municipalities.ResultsOut of the 5570 Brazilian municipalities here analyzed, information on the L. (N.) whitmani was found for 862. The vector occurred in nearly all types of vegetation, with a widespread distribution in: Dense Ombrophilous Forests, Open Ombrophilous Forests (or transition forests), Seasonal Decidual Forests (or deciduous woods), Seasonal Semidecidual Forests (semideciduous woods) and Steppe. The vector was not found in Oligotrophic Woody Vegetation of the Marshes and of Sand Accumulation. ConclusionsThis ample presence of the vector reinforces the hypothesis that L. (N.) whitmani is a notable species, that can easily adapt to different environments.
NDR1 functions as tumor suppressor in glioblastoma by phosphoralation of YAP
Authors: Chen Bin , Liu Bin , Yu Tao , Han Yunfeng , Wu Chao , Wang Zhenyu 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Purpose: The NDR1(Nuclear Dbf2-related) kinase is a member of the NDR/LATS family which was a supplementary of Hippo pathway. However, whether NDR1 could inhibit glioblastoma (GBM) growth by phosphorylating YAP remains unknown. Meanwhile, the role of NDR1 in GBM was not clear. The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of NDR1-YAP pathway in GBM. Materials and Methods: Bioinformation analysis and immunohistochemistry was performed to identify the expression of NDR1 in GBM. The effect of NDR1 on cell proliferation and cell cycle was analyzed utilizing cck-8, clone formation, immunofluorescence and flow cytometry respectively. In addition, the xenograft tumor model was established as well. Protein interaction was examined by Co-ip and immunofluorescence. Results: Bioinformation analysis and immunohistochemistry of our petients’ tumor tissues showed that expression of NDR1 in tumor tissue was relatively lower than that in normal tissues and was positively related to lower survival rate. NDR1 could markedly reduce the proliferation, colony formation of U87 and U251. Furthermore, the results of flow cytometry showed that NDR1 led to cell cycle arrest at the G1 phase. Tumor growth was also inhibited in xenograft nude mouse models in NDR1-OE group. Western blotting and immunofluorescence showed that NDR1 could integrate with and phophoralate YAP at S127 site. Meanwhile, NDR1 could mediate apopptosis process. Conclusion: In summary, our findings pointed out that NDR1 functions as a tumor suppressor in GBM. NDR1 was identified as a novel regulator of YAP, which give us a in depth comprehension in Hippo signaling pathway.
Post-treatment Mac-2-Binding Protein is a Useful Predictor of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Development after Hepatitis C Virus Eradication
Authors: Sato Shunsuke , Tsuzura Hironori , Kita Yuji , Ikeda Yuji , Kabemura Daishi , Sato Sho , Amano Nozomi , Yatagai Noboru , Murata Ayato , Shimada Yuji , Genda Takuya 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Background and aims: Recent advances of direct-acting antiviral drugs for hepatitis C virus (HCV) have dramatically improved the sustained virologic response (SVR) rate, but hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) development not rarely occurs even in patients who achieve an SVR. Wisteria ﬂoribunda agglutinin-positive Mac-2-binding protein (WFA+-M2BP) was recently developed as a noninvasive biomarker of liver fibrosis. However, the association between the WFA+-M2BP level and HCC development after the achievement of an SVR is unclear. Methods: We examined the association between WFA+-M2BP and HCC development in 552 HCV patients who achieved an SVR (Interferon [IFN]-based therapy, n=228; IFN-free therapy, n=294). Results: Multivariate analysis revealed that a high WFA+-M2BP level at SVR week 24 after treatment (SVR24) (hazard ratio [HR]=1.215, P=0.020), low platelet counts (HR=0.876, P=0.037) and old age (HR=1.073, P=0.012) were independent risk factors for HCC development regardless of the treatment regimen. Receiver operator characteristics curve analysis revealed that an WFA+-M2BP level at SVR24 of ≥1.62 cut off index (COI) was the cut-off value for the prediction of HCC development (adjusted HR = 12.565, 95% CI 3.501-45.092, P<0.001). The 3- and 5-year cumulative incidences of HCC were 0.7% and 0.7% in patients with low WFA+-M2BP at SVR24 (<1.62 COI), and 4.8% and 12.4% in patients with high WFA+-M2BP (≥1.62 COI) were, respectively (P<0.001).Conclusion: The assessment of liver fibrosis using the WFA+-M2BP level at SVR24 is a useful predictor of HCC development after HCV eradication even in the IFN-free therapy era.
Associations Between Reading and Writing Posture and Myopia Among School Students in Ningbo, China
Authors: Jiang Danjie , Shi Bijun , Gao Hua , Guo Yanbo , Zhou Shaoying , Zhang Yan 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Purpose: We conducted this study to examine the prevalence of myopia among school students in Ningbo, and to explore the associations between reading and writing posture and myopia.Methods: A population-based and cross-sectional investigation was performed and 3256 school students aged 8 to 19 years old were recruited. Each enrolled subject underwent uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA) assessment using a standard logarithmic visual acuity E chart and non-cycloplegic autorefraction examination. Self-administered questionnaires were used to investigate myopia-related reading and writing posture and behavior habits.Results: Myopia prevalence of primary school students, middle school students and high school students were 61.49%, 81.43% and 89.72%, respectively. In the associations between reading and writing posture and myopia, we identified keeping the distance between the eyes and the book could be the protective factor in female students, and in both primary school students and middle school students.Conclusions: Keeping appropriate distance between the eyes and the book may be good for myopia prevention and control. We hope this work will bring educational and public health benefits to form appropriate reading and writing posture.
Economic Feasibility Studies for Carbon Capture and Utilisation Technologies: A Tutorial Review
Authors: Assche Hanne Lamberts-Van , Compernolle Tine 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Carbon Capture and Utilization (CCU) involves the capture and use of CO2 as a resource to create valuable products. The economic viability of CCU technologies is crucial for its implementation in real life. The competitiveness of various CCU technologies has been investigated frequently resulting in a variety of economic feasibility studies and economic indicators. This study performs a tutorial review, in which practical guidance is given on the implementation of TEAs for chemical CCU technologies. The tutorial review will critically examine the economic feasibility studies that have been performed in this field and will advise how these studies can be improved in the future. A thorough review of the literature set is performed, in which we evaluate the quality of the economic feasibility studies in the literature set by comparing these studies to the guidelines from Zimmermann et al. (2020). The five phases of an exhaustive TEA are (I) goal and scope, (II) data inventory, (III) calculation of indicators, (IV) interpretation, and (V) writing the report. We evaluate the implementation of these five phases in the economic feasibility studies in the literature set. The tutorial review shows that economic feasibility studies for chemical CCU technologies can and should be improved in various manners. Phase I and II are often skipped or incomplete. Phase III, the calculation of assessment indicators, shows diversity in the indicator base which hampers comparability across CCU technologies of the technical and economic criteria that are key for the feasibility. Phase IV, the interpretation of results, is often missing in the literature set or lacks thorough uncertainty and sensitivity analyses. These findings suggest that future economic feasibility studies should be made in a more standardized way to improve both the quality and comparability of economic feasibility studies. This tutorial review has raised important questions about the management of uncertainty and flexibility in economic feasibility studies. The integration of Real Options Analysis (ROA) within the TEA is proposed to analyse the investment decision in CCU technologies in a dynamic setting.
Out-of-hospital Resuscitation of a 3 Month Old Boy Presenting With Recurrent Ventricular Fibrillation Cardiac Arrest: A Case Report
Authors: Kingsley Peter , Merefield Jonathan , Walker Robert , Chapman Fred , Faulkner Mark 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
A 3 month old boy, with no known health conditions, suffered a sudden collapse at home. On first EMS arrival, ventricular fibrillation (VF) cardiac arrest was identified and resuscitation following UK national guidelines was initiated. He remained in cardiac arrest for over 25 minutes, during which he received 10 defibrillation shocks, each effective, but with VF reoccurring within a few seconds of each of the first 9. A return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) was achieved after the 10th shock. The resuscitation was conducted fully in his home, with the early involvement of Advanced Paramedic Practitioners specialising in critical care (APP- CC). Throughout his resuscitation, there remained a strong focus on delivering quality resuscitation in situ, rather than a ‘load and go’ approach that would have resulted in very early conveyance to hospital with on-going CPR.

The patient was subsequently discharged home and is making an excellent recovery. The arrest was later determined to have been caused by a primary arrhythmia as a result of a previously unidentified non-obstructive variant hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.

We present data downloaded from the defibrillator used during the resuscitation that illustrates clearly the recurrent nature of his fibrillation.
Sex-Dependent Association of DNA&nbsp;Methylation in&nbsp;the Coding Region&nbsp;of the Corticotropin-Releasing Hormone&nbsp;Gene and Schizophrenia
Authors: Qing Lili , Xiong Peng , Lu Yumei , Jiang Hongyan , Nie Shengjie 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Schizophrenia (SCZ) is a common mental disease causing severe chronic disability. Epigenetic changes in HPA axis-related genes are considered to play an important role in SCZ pathogenesis. Unfortunately, the methylation status of the corticotropin-releasing hormone ( CRH ) gene, which is the central driving force in the HPA axis, has not been reported in SCZ patients. Here, we used the sodium bisulfite and MethylTarget methods to detect the DNA methylation status of the CRH gene coding region in peripheral blood samples from 70 schizophrenic patients and 68 healthy controls. The results showed that the methylation level of the CRH gene CDS was significantly increased in SCZ patients, especially in the male subgroup. In conclusion, this study showed that differences in CRH gene CDS methylation were detectable in the peripheral blood of SCZ patients and that epigenetic abnormalities in the CRH gene were closely related to SCZ, revealing that epigenetic processes may mediate the pathophysiology of SCZ. Further research should address the underlying mechanism whereby CRH gene methylation regulates the occurrence and development of SCZ.
Raw cassava rhizome waste as a binder in sugarcane bagasse and straw briquettes
Authors: De Conti Andrea Cressoni , Granado Marcos Paulo Patta , Padilla Elias Ricardo Durango , Nakashima Gabriela Tami , De Conti Cláudio , Yamaji Fábio Minoru 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
The objective of this study was to analyze the cassava rhizome as a natural binder in blend briquettes from cassava rhizome, bagasse, and sugarcane straw. For this study, 20 kg of material (cassava rhizome sugarcane bagasse and straw) were dried to a moisture content closer to 12%. Six treatments were used for briquette production. Three blends and three 100% materials (without mix) were analyzed. The briquettes were produced in a lab-scale press with heating (120 ºC). The results showed that the energy index comparison varied from 6.20–8.25. The fracture limit for the resistance compressive test and the ultimate strength of the briquettes were found for B6 (100% cassava rhizome), followed by the B2 blend (75% cassava rhizome + 15% bagasse + 10% straw). Treatment B2 was the best composition for an energy source by proximate analysis. All treatments (briquettes) had a durability closer to 97%. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) revealed the presence of Ca, K, and Si. The raw cassava rhizome behaves like a natural binder, and treatment B2 was the best blend for briquette production.
WITHDRAWN: High matrix vegetation decreases mean seed dispersal distance but increases long wind dispersal probability connecting local plant populations in agricultural landscapes
Authors: Gobilard Sissi Donna Lozada , Jeltsch Florian , Zhu Jinlei 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Background Seed dispersal plays an important role in population dynamics in agricultural ecosystems, but the effects of surrounding vegetation height on seed dispersal and population connectivity on the landscape scale have rarely been studied. Understanding the effects of surrounding vegetation height on seed dispersal will provide important information for land use management in agricultural landscapes to prevent the spread of undesired weeds or enhance functional connectivity. Methods We used two model species, Phragmites australis and Typha latifolia, growing in small natural ponds known as kettle holes, in an agricultural landscape to evaluate the effects of surrounding vegetation height on wind dispersal and population connectivity between kettle holes. Seed dispersal distance and the probability of long-distance dispersal (LDD) were simulated with the mechanistic WALD model under three scenarios of “low”, “dynamic” and “high” surrounding vegetation height. Connectivity between the origin and target kettle holes was quantified with a connectivity index adapted from Hanski and Thomas (1994). Results Our results show that mean seed dispersal distance decreases with the height of surrounding matrix vegetation, but the probability of long-distance dispersal (LDD) increases with vegetation height. This indicates an important vegetation-based trade-off between mean dispersal distance and LDD, which has an impact on connectivity. Conclusions Matrix vegetation height has a negative effect on mean seed dispersal distance but a positive effect on the probability of LDD. This positive effect and its impact on connectivity provide novel insights into landscape level (meta-)population and community dynamics — a change in matrix vegetation height by land use or climatic changes could strongly affect the spread and connectivity of wind-dispersed plants. The opposite effect of vegetation height on mean seed dispersal distance and the probability of LDD should therefore be considered in management and analyses of future land use and climate change effects.
A Putative Tumor Suppressing Role of hsa-miR-154 in Breast Cancer that acts by Targeting CLOCK Gene
Authors: Ibrahim Eiman , Fritz Alison , Fu Alan N , Ehrlich Barbara E , Zhu Yong 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
BackgroundMicroRNA-154 (hsa-miR-154) is a novel miRNA. Emerging information shows that hsa-miR-154 participates in multiple physiological and pathological processes and is generally identified as a tumor suppressor in multiple types of cancers. Methylation of the hsa-miR-154 gene could also be altered by circadian disruption associated with night shiftwork. ResultsIn this study, we tested whether hsa-miR-154 expression is downregulated in breast cancer and whether hsa-miR-154 targets any circadian genes. Using publicly available datasets and bioinformatics analysis, we first demonstrated that expression levels of hsa-miR-154 were significantly lower in breast tumors compared to normal breast tissues and its expression correlated with clinical outcomes. Downregulation of hsa-miR-154 was also confirmed in breast cancer cell lines and restoration of hsa-miR-154 by transfection significantly inhibited growth of these cells. Further bioinformatics screening indicated that the circadian gene CLOCK is likely a hsa-miR-154 target. ConclusionsThese findings suggest a potential tumor suppressing role of hsa-miR-154 in breast cancer that acts by targeting CLOCK gene. Exploration of hsa-miR-154 for its anti-cancer effect may provide information on its potential for therapeutic application.
Clinical Features and Treatment of Inactive Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy
Authors: An Weiting , Zhao Qi , Zhang Longli , Han Jindong 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Background To investigate the clinical features and results after vitrectomy for inactive proliferative diabetic retinopathy (IPDR).Methods Retrospective review of 40 eyes of 21 IPDR patients who underwent 23G or 25G minimally invasive vitrectomy between January 2018 and December 2019 in Tianjin Medical University Eye Hospital.The average follow-up period was 8.7 months. Outcome measures were best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), clinical features and intraoperative findings of IPDR.Results All eyes were performed with panretinal photocoagulation (PRP) for average 1.6 years before operation. Fundus examination showed the optic disc was pale, and a mass of yellowish-white fibroproliferative membrane was around the optic disc and vascular arcade. Thirty-three eyes (82.5%) were accompanied by tractional retinal detachment, and macula was involved in 9 eyes (22.5%). The vitreous adhered with the retina tightly. The mid-peripheral retina was thin. Thirty-one eyes (77.5%) were accompanied by small branch retinal artery and vein occlusion. Fourteen eyes (35.0%) occurred iatrogenic retinal break during vitrectomy. The median LogMAR of BCVA significantly improved from 1.0 (20/200)preoperatively to 0.92 (20/167) postoperatively (P = 0.000).Conclusions The fundus manifestation of IPDR was quiet and special. Vitrectomy could improve patients’ visual acuity, but the incidence of iatrogenic retinal break was high.Vitrectomy could be performed by well-skilled vitro-retinal surgeons according to the minimum quantitative principle.
Managing Borders During Public Health Emergencies of International Concern: A Proposed Typology of Cross-border Health Measures
Authors: Lee Kelley , Grépin Karen A , Worsnop Catherine , Marion Summer , Piper Julianne , Song Mingqi 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
BackgroundThe near universal adoption of cross-border health measures during the COVID-19 pandemic worldwide has prompted significant debate about their effectiveness and compliance with international law. The number of measures used, and the range of measures applied, have far exceeded previous public health emergencies of international concern. However, efforts to advance research, policy and practice to support their effective use has been hindered by a lack of clear and consistent definition. ResultsBased on a review of existing datasets for cross-border health measures, such as the Oxford Coronavirus Government Response Tracker and World Health Organization Public Health and Social Measures, along with analysis of secondary and grey literature, we propose six categories to define measures more clearly and consistently – type of movement (travel and trade), policy goal, level of jurisdiction, use by public versus private sector, stage of journey, and degree of restrictiveness. These categories are then be brought together into a proposed typology that can support research with generalizable findings and comparative analyses across jurisdictions. The typology facilitates evidence-informed decision-making which takes account of policy complexity including trade-offs and externalities. Finally, the typology can support efforts to strengthen coordinated global responses to outbreaks and inform future efforts to revise the WHO International Health Regulations (2005). ConclusionsThe widespread use of cross-border health measures during the COVID-19 pandemic has prompted significant reflection on available evidence, previous practice and existing legal frameworks. The typology put forth in this paper aims to provide a starting point for strengthening research, policy and practice.