bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Health outcomes of children born/suspected with ZIKV: Protocol for the ZIKAction Paediatric Registry in Latin America and the Caribbean
Authors: Ruiz-Burga Elisa , de Siqueira Isadora Cristina , Melbourne-Chambers Roxanne , Bologna Rosa Maria , Christie Celia D C , Berberian Griselda , Soriano-Arandes Antoni , Bailey Heather , Palmer Paulette , Oletto Andrea , de Almeida Breno Lima , Lage Maria Lucia Costa , Giaquinto Carlo , Thorne Claire 
Published: August 2021

Abstract
Background: Although the number of Zika virus (ZIKV) cases has substantially declined in Latin America and the Caribbean since the 2015-2016 outbreaks, the cohort of children born at that time and affected by congenital zika syndrome (CZS) are now around 4-5 years old and experiencing an ongoing impact on their health and development. Gaps in our understanding remain regarding the outcomes of ZIKV exposure in utero and congenital infection and the consequences of congenital zika syndrome (CZS) for health throughout childhood. Methods: The ZIKAction Paediatric Registry is an international multi-centre registry of infants and children with documented ZIKV exposure in utero (i.e. born to mother with confirmed infection in pregnancy) and/or with confirmed or suspected congenital ZIKV infection. Clinical teams at participating sites in Argentina, Brazil and Jamaica conduct retrospective case note reviews of children eligible for inclusion in the Registry and enter pseudonymised data into a central Registry database, with additional data collected prospectively on routine follow-up at some sites. Data collected will include sociodemographic, maternal and pregnancy information, delivery information and newborn assessment, paediatric clinical assessments (physical, neurological, developmental, ophthalmological, audiological), and laboratory results conducted as part of local standard of care. The ZIKAction Paediatric Registry network will conduct pooled analyses to address questions relating to characteristics, health and neurodevelopmental outcomes of this population. The Registry is embedded within a larger programme of research studies conducted by ZIKAction. Discussion: As the health outcomes of children affected by ZIKV continue to unfold, this paediatric registry will provide comprehensive data on their clinical and neurodevelopmental outcomes, growth and management, as well as on later sequelae. This will inform their support and care and provide potential insights on pathogenesis of the disease, of importance to currently affected families and for the response to possible future outbreaks. It will highlight the service needs of the affected populations in Latin America and the Caribbean and allow the identification of potential participants for future studies.
Human Adipose-derived Mesenchymal Stromal Cells Exhibit High HLA-DR Levels and Altered Cellular Characteristics under a Xeno-free and Serum-free Condition
Authors: Dam Phuong TM , Hoang Van T. , Bui Hue Thi Hong , Hang Le Minh , Hoang Duc M. , Nguyen Hoang Phuong , Thi Lien Ha , Thanh Huong Tran Thi , Nguyen Xuan-Hung , Liem Nguyen Thanh 
Published: August 2021

Abstract
Background: We have observed an increased expression of negative markers in some clinical-grade, xeno- and serum-free cultured adipose-derived mesenchymal stem/stromal cell (ADMSC) samples. It gave rise to concern that xeno- and serum-free conditions might have unexpected effects on human ADMSCs. This study aims to test this hypothesis for two xeno- and serum-free media, PowerStem MSC1 media (PS) and StemMACS MSC Expansion Media (SM), that support the in vitro expansion of ADMSCs.Methods: We investigated the expression of negative markers in 42 clinical-grade ADMSC samples expanded in PS. Next, we cultured ADMSCs from seven donors in PS and SM and examined their growth and colony-forming ability, surface marker expression, differentiation, cell cycle and senescence, as well as genetic stability of two passages representing an early and late passage for therapeutic MSCs.Results: 15 of 42 clinical-grade PS-expanded ADMSC samples showed an increased expression of negative markers ranging from 2.73% to 34.24%, which positively correlated with the age of donors. This rise of negative markers was related to an upregulation of Human Leukocyte Antigen – DR (HLA-DR). In addition, the PS-cultured cells presented decreased growth ability, lower frequencies of cells in S/G2/M phases, and increased ß-galactosidase activity in passage 7 suggesting their senescent feature compared to those grown in SM. Although MSCs of both PS and SM cultures were capable of multilineage differentiation, the PS-cultured cells demonstrated chromosomal abnormalities in passage 7 compared to the normal karyotype of their SM counterparts.Conclusions: These findings suggest that the SM media is more suitable for the expansion of therapeutic ADMSCs than PS. The study also hints a change of ADMSC features at more advanced passages and with increased donor’s age. Thus, it emphasizes the necessity to cover these aspects in the quality control of therapeutic MSC products.
Exposure to anthropogenic activities and age class mediate mesocarnivore habitat selection in a human-dominated landscape
Authors: Serieys Laurel , Bishop Jacqueline M , Rogan Matthew S , Smith Justine A , Suraci Jusin P , O'Riain M Justin , Wilmers Chris C 
Published: August 2021

Abstract
Wildlife populations are increasingly challenged by human activities that disrupt landscape connectivity, animal movement, population dynamics and population persistence. Yet modified habitats may provide resource subsidies for generalist species resulting in increased selection of disturbed areas. Understanding how species adjust their space use and activity in human-modified landscapes is fundamental to conserving wildlife populations globally. To test three competing hypotheses explaining spatiotemporal responses to human activity, we investigated coarse (3 hour)- and fine (20 minute)- scale habitat selection, activity patterns, and measured home ranges in a human-dominated landscape. We GPS-collared 25 adults and subadult caracals (Caracal caracal) from three contiguous subpopulations in urban and wildland-dominated regions. Caracals in the wildland-dominated region avoided proximity to urban areas while caracals in the urban-dominated region selected for close proximity to urban areas. Selection responses for vegetative cover, freshwater, vineyards, the coast, and burned areas was dependent on age class, diel period, and whether individuals were in close proximity to urban areas. Large home ranges demonstrated habitat selection results were not a result of limited landscape use. Caracals did not shift their temporal activity to avoid humans, but selected for closer proximity to urban areas at night, suggesting they seek spatial refugia during the day. Behavioral plasticity whereby individuals seek out spatial refugia promotes the coexistence of this carnivore in a human-dominated landscape. These data are essential to our understanding of what is viable wildlife habitat to a generalist mesocarnivore and provide opportunities to guide land acquisition and conservation by local management agencies.
Graft Survival and Clinical Outcomes of Descemet Membrane Endothelial Keratoplasty: Long Term Results
Authors: BESEK NILAY KANDEMIR , Yalçınkaya Gülay , Kırgız Ahmet , Çakmak Semih , Genç Selim , Nacaroğlu Şenay Aşık , Yıldız Burçin Kepez , Yıldırım Yusuf , Ağca Alper 
Published: August 2021

Abstract
Purpose: The aim is to report long-term graft survival rates, clinical outcomes of Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK).Methods: In this study 150 eyes, that underwent DMEK whether for Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy (FECD) or for bullous keratopathy (BK), surveilled for 7 years at 6 time-points to evaluate graft survival rates and clinical outcomes of post-corneal transplantation.Results: Overall, the estimated survival probability of 95% confidence interval at 7 years of post-DMEK was 0.58 (0.72-0.77) and the survival probabilities of eyes operated for FECD (0.53) were higher than eyes operated for BK (0.42) (Log Rank 26.87, [p=0.197]). Post-transplant eyes with FECD achieved better visual acuity levels than eyes with BK (p=0.006). Primary graft failure occurred in 11.3% eyes. Secondary graft failure rate was 9.3%, and allograft rejection rate was 4.7%.Conclusion: Although DMEK is effective, safe in long-term, visual results and graft survival rates are better in cases with FECD.
Impact of Sediment-Spiked Fludioxonil On Benthic Macroinvertebrates And Zooplankton From The Yangtze River Delta, China
Authors: Sun Jian , Xiao Pengfei , Yin Xiaohui , Zhang Kun , Zhu Guonian , Brock Theo C.M. 
Published: August 2021

Abstract
In China, the fungicide fludioxonil, that accumulates and persists in sediments, has a widespread agricultural use to control various fungal diseases. Its residues may cause toxic effects to benthic and pelagic aquatic fauna, thereby impacting ecosystem service functions of aquatic ecosystems.To assess the environmental risks of fludioxonil, sediment-spiked single-species toxicity tests with benthic macroinvertebrates as well as a sediment-spiked indoor freshwater microcosm experiment were performed. The microcosm test systems were populated with benthic invertebrates also used in the single-species tests. In all experiments artificial sediment was used. The single-species tests were conducted with 8 benthic macroinvertebrates covering different taxonomic groups typical for the Yangtze River Delta, China. The 28d-EC10 values thus obtained were used to construct species sensitivity distributions (SSDs) and the hazardous concentration to 5% of the species tested (HC5) was used to derive a provisional long-term Tier-2 regulatory acceptable concentration (RAC) for benthic invertebrates by applying an assessment factor of 3.The microcosm experiment was conducted to study treatment-related responses of benthic macroinvertebrates and pelagic zooplankton. The lowest No Observed Effect Concentrations (NOECs) of benthic invertebrate and of pelagic zooplankton populations were used to derive provisional long-term Tier-3 RACs for, respectively, benthic and pelagic invertebrates by applying an assessment factor of 2. The RACs thus obtained were compared with Predicted Environmental Concentrations (PECs) of fludioxonil in overlying water and the sediment compartment of edge-of-field ponds after application of this fungicide in rice, grape, wheat, maize and tomato crops. Overall, the risks of long-term exposure of fludioxonil to benthic invertebrates and pelagic zooplankton species in these Chinese edge-of-field ponds appear to be relatively small, but some risks cannot be excluded for ponds adjacent to rice.
Physical and Chemical Characteristics of Microplastic in Beach Sand in Can Gio, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Authors: Nhon Nguyen Thi Thanh , Nguyen Nguyen Thao , Hai Ho Truong Nam , Hien To Thi 
Published: August 2021

Abstract
Microplastics pollution in Vietnam has been received more attention in recent years due to its adverse impacts on the environment. The coastal areas, especially estuary is potential accumulation zone of microplastics. These locations, where inland waters meet the ocean, are heavily impacted by anthropogenic activities and the dynamic of the sea currents. This study aims to investigate the spatial distribution, physical characteristics, and chemical composition of microplastics in beach sand in Can Gio, Ho Chi Minh city, Vietnam. A total of 90 sand samples from five sampling sites were collected in November 2019, they were analyzed for size, shape, color, and identity. The results showed that microplastics concentration ranged from 0 to 6.58 pieces/ kg d.w. Microplastics tend to be distributed along the upper-shore line and in the surface layer of sand. The data revealed that microplastics ranging from 2.8–5 mm were the most abundant (72.46%), pellet shape accounted for the highest proportion (41.31%), white and blue are two popular colours up to 80% in total of detected microplastics. Chemical composition of the microplastics was determined by attenuated total reflection-Fourier transform infrared (FTIR-ATR) spectroscopy, polypropylene and polystyrene are the two most common plastic types in this study. Macroplastics found in beach sand samples were also assessed, the study shows a positive correlation between microplastic and macroplastic, showing the possible origin of microplastics. The findings of this study provided more insights into the microplastic pollution status in beach sand and the foundation for future investigation.
Cascaded Double κ-μ Shadowed Fading Channels
Authors: Bilim Mehmet 
Published: August 2021

Abstract
In this study, the cascaded double shadowed fading model is mathematically introduced. A novel expression is obtained for the cumulative distribution function (CDF) of the cascaded double shadowed fading channels by using Meijer’s G function and Laplace transform. Based on the obtained CDF expression, the exact and asymptotic expressions are derived for the outage probability (OP), the bit error rate (BER) for various modulations of the considered channel model. The OP and the average BER curves with exact simulations obtained by the proposed expressions are presented for different parameters and modulation schemes of the considered channel model. Finally, the accuracy of the derived OP and the average BER expressions is confirmed.
Characteristics of Heavy Metal Migration In Farmland
Authors: Tang Xuefang , Wu Yong , Han Libi , Lan Zhen , Rong Xingping 
Published: August 2021

Abstract
Compared with water and air pollution, soil pollution is highly concealed, has poor self-purification ability, and has high risks associated with accumulation. Characteristics of heavy metal migration directly affect the quality of the environment, and comparative studies utilizing column leaching and natural leaching experiments have rarely been performed. In this study, we used farmland soil samples from Xiba Town in the Wutongqiao district to determine the differences in leaching characteristics between column leaching and natural leaching tests. The results indicate the following. (1)The release of heavy metals in soil is divided into two stages: the first stage is a rapid release period, while the leaching solution has an extremely low heavy metal concentrations during the second stage. The cumulative amount released during the second stage exhibits regular fluctuations, while the heavy metal release rate is consistent with the heavy metal adsorption properties of the soil. (2) The release and accumulation of heavy metals in the soil are influenced by many factors that may interact with each other, which leads to low correlations between the cumulative heavy metals released in the column leaching and natural leaching tests. Simulating natural heavy metal migration trends using the column leaching test is effective to some extent, but there are significant differences between the accumulation sites and accumulated amounts. This study provides a theoretical basis for improving the remediation of soil contaminated by heavy metals.
The Effect of N-acetyl Cysteine on Liver Function after On-pump Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery: A Double-Blind Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: javaherforooshzadeh fatemeh , hormozi pegah abbasi , Akhondzadeh Reza , olapour Alireza , Hashemi Syed jalal 
Published: August 2021

Abstract
Purpose: Somebody's organ dysfunctions such as heart, lung, kidney, and liver dysfunction are associated with the cardiopulmonary bypass in open-heart surgery.This study aimed effect of the N-acetyl cysteine injection on liver function after on-pump Coronary Artery Bypass Graft SurgeryMethod: In this clinical trial conducted in Golestan Hospital, Ahvaz, Iran, 60 candidates for coronary artery bypass graft surgery were selected based on the inclusion criteria. The candidates were then randomly divided into two intervention and control groups (30 people each).Intervention: Patients received 3 (2 intraoperative and 1 postoperative) doses of IV N-acetyl cysteine (100 mg/kg) (n=30) or placebo (n=30) over 24 hour. The main outcomes were serum Alkaline Phosphatase, Aspartate Aminotransferase, Alanine Aminotransferase, Bilirubin, PTT, and INR at 4 and 48 hours after surgery. Statistical analysis: The dates were analyzed using SPSS 22. Descriptive statistics were reported as mean ± standard deviation for continuous variables and as frequency and percentage for categorical variables. An unpaired t-test was used to compare the parameters with a normal distribution. Statistical significance level was defined at p-value < 0.05.Results: there were significant differences in terms of, ALT, AST, ALP and Bilirubin levels 4(p-value < 0.001) and 48h after surgery (p-value = 0.002).Conclusion: Based on the findings, intravenous administration of N-acetyl cysteine in patients with CABG significantly may be preserved liver function. Trial registry: Registered under No. Trial registration number IRCT20190506043492N2, date of registration :2020.05.23 .Retrospectively registered
Lipid-In, Sugar-Out: Early Results of Treatment with Additional Ketogenic Parenteral Nutrition in Left Ventricle Assist Device Patients.
Authors: Bejko Jonida , Bottio Tomaso , Caraffa Raphael , Carrozzini Massimiliano , Bifulco Olimpia , Tarzia Vincenzo , Gregori Dario , Pittarello Demetrio Giorgio , Pesenti Francesco Francini , Gerosa Gino , Tona Francesco 
Published: August 2021

Abstract
Background and Aims: Right ventricle failure (RVF) can be a fatal complication following left ventricle assist device (LVAD) implant. Careful intra and postoperative management is becoming increasingly important. Unfortunately, the attempts are limited to the prediction and not to the treatment. There are no data on Ketogenic parenteral nutrition (KPN) for the targeted treatment of RVF. The aim of our retrospective observational case-control study is to determine whether KPN may play a role as additional treatment to conventional therapy after LVAD implantation.Material and Methods: This is a retrospective single center analysis of a case series on prospectively collected data. From February 2012 to April 2021, 192 patients have been implanted with an LVAD. All the patients were managed with optimal medical and surgical therapy. One-hundred-seven patients were treated with additional KPN as adjuvant therapy against and in prevention of acute RVF (KPN-Group), defined according to International Society Heart and Lung Transplantation (ISHLT) guidelines. The remaining 85 patients, managed without KPN, constituted our control group (No-KPN-Group).Results: In KPN-Group acute-RVF occurred in 31 patients (29%), while causing death in 14 patients (13%). In the No-KPN-Group acute-RVF was observed in 32 patients (37.6%), while causing death in 20 patients (23.5%). According to echocardiographic and hemodynamic results, the majority of KPN-Group patients responded with RV function improvement (range 4-60% of TAPSE increase, p<0.05) with recovery of RV function in 85% of the patients (91/107). In No-KPN-Group RV functional recovery was observed in 65 patients (76.4%). Overall intra-hospital mortality was 23.4% (25) and 27.1% (23) in KPN-Group and No-KPN-Group, respectively (p=0.337). While Intensive Care Unit (ICU) stay was comparable (p=0.078), ward-stay was significantly shorter in KPN-Group (p=0.03).Conclusion: KPN was well tolerated. A complete recovery of the RV function was achieved in the majority of the patients and results lasted beyond the duration of KPN. Future research to understand the underlying mechanism, and identification of suitable patients and treatment duration is necessary.
Design, Implementation, and Evaluation of a Mobile-Based Education and Self-Care Application for Covid-19 Disease: A Study Protocol
Authors: Heydari Mohammad , Nasiri Khadijeh , Mohammadi Elahe , Mehraeen Esmaeil , Haghighat Neda , aghamohammadi vahideh 
Published: August 2021

Abstract
Background: With an emphasis on implementing self-care protocols to control and manage coronavirus disease and its widespread prevalence as well as high transmission rate along with deficiencies in the health system, the use of technologies to implement care protocols, disease management, and control is undeniable. Therefore, the present study has been conducted aimed to design, implement and evaluate mobile-based self-care educational software for patients with Covid-19 in order to provide self-care protocols in an interactive environment for better disease control and management.Methods: The present study is applied and developmental that has been conducted in 2021in order to design, implement and evaluate mobile-based self-care training software for Covid-19.This study will be conducted at four stages.The fourth stage will be the open-label, parallel-group, randomized controlled trial and evaluation stage of software, in which the patients with Covid-19 who are required to self-quarantine at home and follow self-care protocols. The proposed clinical trial will be held at the medical centers in Ardabil and Khalkhal cites, for 4 weeks to assess the efficacy of mobile-based self-care educational software for patients with Covid-19 for better disease control.Conclusion: It is expected that the use that 4 weeks use of the application will improve measures of investigation.Trial registration: Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials IRCT20210509051231N1. Registered on23 June 2021, https://www.irct.ir/user/trial/56352/view.
Cardiac-chamber-specific Fingerprints in Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction. Early Detection of Pathological Conditions by FTIR and Raman Spectroscopic Techniques
Authors: Tombolesi Niki , Altara Raffaele , Silva Gustavo J.J. , Tannous Cynthia , Zouein Fouad A. , Stensløkken Kåre-Olav , Morresi Assunta , Paolantoni Marco , Booz George W. , Cataliotti Alessandro , Sassi Paola 
Published: August 2021

Abstract
Background The pathophysiology of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is a matter of investigation and its diagnosis remains challenging. Although the mechanisms that are responsible for the development of HFpEF are not fully understood, it is well known that nearly 80% of patients with HFpEF have concomitant hypertension.Methods We investigated whether early biochemical alterations were detectable during HFpEF progression in salt-induced hypertensive rats, using Fourier-transformed infrared (FTIR) and Raman spectroscopic techniques as a new diagnostic approach. Results Greater protein content and, specifically, greater collagen deposition were observed in the left atrium and right ventricle of hypertensive rats, together with altered metabolism of myocytes. Additionally, Raman spectra indicated a conformational change, or different degree of phosphorylation/methylation, in tyrosine-rich proteins. A correlation was found between tyrosine content and cardiac fibrosis of both right and left ventricles. Microcalcifications were detected in the left and right atria of control animals, with a progressive augmentation from six to 22 weeks. A further increase occurred in the left ventricle and right atrium of 22-week salt-fed animals, and a positive correlation was shown between the mineral deposits and the cardiac size of the left ventricle. Conclusions Overall, FTIR and Raman techniques proved to be sensitive to early biochemical changes in HFpEF and preceded clinical humoral and imaging markers.