bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The psychological impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on adults with autism: A survey study across three countries
Authors: Oomen Danna , Nijhof Annabel Dineke , Wiersema Jan Roelf 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Background: Previous studies have reported a negative psychological and mental health impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. This impact is likely to be stronger for people with autism as they are at heightened risk of mental health problems and because the pandemic directly affects social functioning and everyday routines. We therefore examined COVID-19 pandemic-related changes in mental health, the impact of the pandemic on their social life and routines, satisfaction with pandemic-related information and tips, and participants’ wishes for guidance. Methods: We used a mixed-method approach, collecting quantitative and qualitative survey data from adults with and without autism across three European countries: Belgium, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom (N = 1044). Results: We found an increase in depression and anxiety symptoms in response to the pandemic for both the non-autism and the autism group, which was greater for adults with autism. Furthermore, adults with autism showed a greater increase in worries about their pets, work, getting medication and food, and their own safety/security. They felt more relieved from social stress, yet experienced the loss of social contact as difficult. Adults with autism also felt more stressed about the loss of routines. Pleasant changes noted by adults with autism were the increase in solidarity and reduced sensory and social overload. Adults with autism frequently reported problems with cancellation of guidance due to the pandemic and expressed their wish for (more) autism-specific information and advice. Limitations: Our sample is likely to reflect some degree of selection bias, and longitudinal studies are needed to determine long-term effects. Conclusions: Results highlight the psychological burden of the pandemic on adults with autism and shed light on how to support them during this COVID-19 pandemic, which is especially important now that the pandemic is likely to have a prolonged course. There is a need for accessible, affordable (continued) support from health services. Guidance may focus on the maintenance of a social network, and adjusting routines to the rapid ongoing changes. Finally, we may learn from the COVID-19 pandemic-related changes experienced as pleasant by adults with autism to build a more autism-friendly society post-pandemic.
Does the Endoscopic Surgical Skill Qualification System improve patients’ outcome following laparoscopic surgery for colon cancer? A multicentre, retrospective analysis with propensity score matching.
Authors: Kazama Keisuke , Numata Masakatsu , Aoyama Toru , Atsumi Yosuke , Tamagawa Hiroshi , Godai Teni , Saeki Hiroyuki , Saigusa Yusuke , Shiozawa Manabu , Yukawa Norio , Masuda Munetaka , Rino Yasushi 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Background: This study aimed to investigate the short-term and oncological impact of the Endoscopic Surgical Skill Qualification System (ESSQS) by the Japan Society for Endoscopic Surgery on the operator performing laparoscopic surgery for colon cancer.Methods: This retrospective cohort study was based on medical records from a multicentre database. A total of 417 patients diagnosed with stage II/III colon and rectosigmoid cancer treated with curative resection were divided into two groups according to whether they were operated on by qualified surgeons (Q group, n=352) or not (NQ group, n=65). Through strict propensity score matching, 98 cases (49 in each group) were assessed.Results: Operative time was significantly longer in the NQ group than in the Q group (199 vs. 168 min, p=0.029). The amount of blood loss, post-operative complications, and duration of hospitalisation were similar between both groups. No mortality was observed. One conversion case was seen in the NQ group. The 3-year recurrence-free survival rate was 86.6% in the NQ group and 88.2% in the Q group, which was not statistically significant (log-rank p=0.966).Conclusion: Direct operation by ESSQS-qualified surgeons contributed to a shortened operation time. Under an organised educational environment, almost equivalent safety and oncological outcomes are expected regardless of the surgeon’s qualifications.
Survivorship of Anopheles gambiae sensu lato in irrigated sugarcane plantation scheme in Ethiopia
Authors: Hawaria Dawit , Kibret Solomon , Demissew Assalif , Tsegaye Arega , Bitew Denekew , Yan Guiyun , Yewhalaw Delenasaw 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Background: To ensure food security, the sub-Saharan Africa has initiated massive water resource development projects, like irrigated agriculture, in recent years. However, such environmental modifications affect the survivorship and development of mosquitoes that are vectors of different diseases. This study aimed at determining the effects of irrigation practices on development and survivorship of Anopheles gambiae s.l in Ethiopia. Methods: Life-table experiment was conducted to examine the effect of environmental modification on survivorship of both immature and adults An. gambiae s.l. in irrigated and non-irrigated areas. The pupation rate and development time of the immatures and adult longevity and fecundity were compared between the two settings.Results: The estimated mean survival time of female An. gambiae s.l. in irrigated and non-irrigated area was 37.9 and 31.3 days, respectively. A survival analysis showed that adult females of An. gambiae s.l. placed in irrigated area lived significantly longer than those at the non-irrigated area (χ2 = 18.3, df = 1, p <0.001) and An. gambiae s.l. females lived significantly longer than males in both areas (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Adult An. gambiae s.l. survivorship was found to be enhanced in irrigated area compared to non-irrigated area. Longer survival of adult mosquito in irrigated area could have important implications in vectorial capacity and hence malaria transmission.
Care to Quit: A stepped wedge cluster randomised controlled trial to implement best practice smoking cessation care in cancer centres
Authors: Paul Christine L , Warren Graham , Vinod Shalini , Meiser Bettina , Stone Emily , Barker Daniel , White Kate , McLennan James , Day Fiona , McCarter Kristen , McEnallay Melissa , Tait Jordan , Canfell Karen , Weber Marianne , Segan Catherine 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Background Cigarette smoking in people with cancer is associated with negative treatment related outcomes including increased treatment toxicity and complications, medication side effects, decreased performance status and morbidity. Evidence based smoking cessation care is not routinely provided to patients with cancer. The purpose of this study is to determine the effectiveness of a smoking cessation implementation intervention on abstinence from smoking in people diagnosed with cancer.Methods A stepped wedge cluster randomized design will be used. All sites begin in the control condition providing treatment as usual. In a randomly generated order, sites will move to the intervention condition. Based on the Theoretical Domains Framework, implementation of Care to Quit will include i) building the capability and motivation of a critical mass of key clinical staff and identifying champions; and ii) identifying and implementing cessation care models/pathways. 2160 patients with cancer (diagnosed in the prior six months), aged 18+, who report recent combustible tobacco use (past 90 days or in the 30 days prior to cancer diagnosis) and are accessing anti-cancer therapy, will be recruited at nine sites. Assessments will be conducted at baseline and 7-month follow-up. The primary outcome will be 6-month abstinence from smoking. Secondary outcomes include biochemical verification of abstinence from smoking, duration of quit attempts, tobacco consumption, nicotine dependence, variables, provision and receipt of smoking cessation care, mental health and quality of life and cost effectiveness of the intervention.Discussion This study will implement best practice smoking cessation care in cancer centres and has the potential for wide dissemination.Trial registration The trial is registered with ANZCTR (www.anzctr.org.au): ACTRN (submitted, awaiting approval due to ANZCTR delays) prior to the accrual of the first participant and will be updated regularly as per registry guidelines.
Functional analysis of (pristine) estuarine marine sediments
Authors: Shah Rohan , Hillyer Katie , Stephenson Sarah , Crosswell Joseph , Karpe Avinash , Paolombo Enzo , Jones Oliver , Gorman Daniel , Bodrossy Levente , de Kamp Jodie van , Ahmed Warish , Bissett Andrew , Whiteley Andrew , Steven Andy , Beale David 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Traditional environmental monitoring techniques are well suited to resolving acute exposure effects but lack resolution in determining subtle shifts in ecosystem functions resulting from chronic exposure(s). Surveillance with sensitive omics-based technologies could bridge this gap but, to date, most omics-based environmental studies have focused on previously degraded environments, identifying key metabolic differences resulting from anthropogenic perturbations. Here, we apply ‘omic based approaches to pristine environments to establish blueprints of microbial functionality within healthy estuarine sediment communities. We collected surface sediments (n=50) from four pristine estuaries along the Western Cape York Peninsula of Far North Queensland, Australia. Sediment microbiomes were analyzed for 16S rRNA amplicon sequences, central carbon metabolism metabolites and associated secondary metabolites via untargeted metabolic profiling methods. Multivariate statistical analyses indicated heterogeneity amongst the sampled estuaries, however, taxa-function relationships could be established and predicted community metabolism potential. Twenty-four correlated gene-metabolite pathways were identified and used to establish sediment microbial blueprints of carbon metabolism and amino acid biosynthesis. Our results establish a baseline microbial blueprint for the pristine sediment microbiome, one that drives important ecosystem services and to which future ecosurveillance monitoring can be compared.
Impact of Preconceptional Serum Thyroid Stimulating Hormone Values Ranging Between 2.5 and 4.5 mIU/L on Intrauterine Insemination Outcomes in Euthyroid Women with Unexplained Infertility
Authors: Karakis Lale , Kiyak Huseyin , Okmen Berfin , Ozdemir Cagdas , Turkgeldi Engin 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Background: Contrary to overt hypothyroidism, the true impact of subclinical hypothyroidism on fertility has not been well established. This study aimed to investigate whether serum thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) values between 2.5 and 4.5 mIU/L are associated with lower pregnancy rates compared to TSH levels between 0.3-2.5 mIU/L in women undergoing ovulation induction with gonadotropins and intrauterine insemination (IUI) for unexplained infertility.Methods: Medical records of couples with unexplained infertility who underwent IUI treatment between January 2013 and December 2018 were reviewed retrospectively. Cycle characteristics and pregnancy outcomes of patients with serum TSH levels between 0.3-2.49 mIU/L and 2.5–4.5 mIU/L were compared. Primary outcome measures were clinical pregnancy and live birth rate. Secondary outcome measures were total dose of gonadotropin administration, duration of ovulation induction and miscarriage rate.Results: A total of 726 euthyroid women who underwent 1465 cycles of ovulation induction with gonadotropins and IUI were included in the analyses. Patient and cycle characteristics of the two study groups were similar. No statistically significant differences could be detected in the clinical pregnancy (p=0.743) and live birth rates (p=0.380) between the two groups. Duration of ovulation induction, total gonadotropin dosage, number of follicles >17mm on the trigger day and the miscarriage rates were similar in the two groups.Conclusion: In euthyroid women undergoing ovulation induction with gonadotropins and IUI for unexplained infertility, the range of preconceptional serum TSH values between 2.5-4.5 mIU/L is not associated with lower pregnancy rates when compared to TSH levels between 0.3-2.5 mIU/L.
Iranian Sub Cohort Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (IrSCCOPD): Need for Longitudinal Observational Studies COPD in Southwest of Iran
Authors: Kiani Fatemeh Zeynab , Ahmadi Ali , Babadi Akbar Soleymani , Rouhi Hamid 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Background: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a chronic and complex respiratory disorder that is associated with the airflow limitation and increased inflammatory response of the lungs to harmful particles and gases. The purpose of this original study was to describe the profile of Shahrekord PERSIAN Cohort Study regarding COPD in southwestern Iran. Methods: This study of asthma and respiratory diseases is a subcohort of the larger cohort study, i.e., Shahrekord PERSIAN cohort, a population-based prospective study on people aged 35-70 years in southwestern Iran (n=10,075). The sample size of the subcohort was 8500 people. Annual follow-ups (person-year) of the cohort were designed to be conducted up to 2036. The instruments to collect data on various exposures were derived from the questionnaires previously developed in extensive multinational studies (occupational exposures, smoking, housing status, and fuel consumption, history of respiratory and chronic diseases, comorbidity, etc.). The Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) and the lower limit of normal (NLL) spirometric criteria were used to confirm COPD diagnosis. Results: The response rate was 93.85%. The mean age of the participants was 49.48 ± 9.32; 47.9% were male and 52.9% were female; about 20% were in rural areas and nearly 16% of the population was current smokers; the fuel used by most of the participants for heating the house and cooking was gas. The most common comorbidity among participants was dyslipidemia; 30% of people have three or more comorbidities. According to GOLD and LLN criteria, 3.6% and 8.4% of participants had COPD, respectively. 4.3% of the participants had a history of chronic lung disease. The mean FEV1/ FVC was 92.48 (SD, 7.47), the mean FEF 25-75 was 3.43 (SD, 1.28) L. 47.6% had a history of chronic phlegm; 2.7% of the participants had shortness of breath and wheezingConclusion: Epidemiological research is necessary to create an appropriate framework to fight COPD. This framework requires a better description of men and women at risk of developing COPD and describing people with early-stage illnesses.
Nano-Hydroxyapatite Accelerates Vascular Calcification by Inhibiting Lysosomal Acidiﬁcation in Smooth Muscle Cells.
Authors: Liu Qi , Luo Yi , Zhao Yun , Xiang Pingping , Zhu Jinyun , Jing Wangwei , jin Wenjing , Chen Mingyao , Tang Ruikang , Yu Hong 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Background: Vascular calcification (VC) is a common characteristic of aging, diabetes, chronic renal failure, and atherosclerosis. The basic component of VC is hydroxyapatite (HAp). Nano-sized HAp (nHAp) has been identified as the initiator of pathological calcification of vasculature. However, whether nHAp can induce calcification in vivo and the mechanism of nHAp in the progression of VC remains unclear.Results: We discovered that nHAp existed both in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) and their extracellular matrix (ECM) in the calcified arteries from patients. Synthetic nHAp had similar morphological and chemical properties as natural nHAp recovered from calcified artery. nHAp induced rapid progression of VC by stimulating osteogenic differentiation and accelerating mineralization of VSMCs in vitro. Synthetic nHAp could also directly induce VC in vivo. Mechanistically, nHAp was internalized into lysosome, which impaired lysosome vacuolar H+-ATPase for its acidification, therefore blocked autophagic flux in VSMCs. The accumulated autophagosomes and autolysosomes were converted into calcium-containing exosomes which were secreted into ECM and accelerated vascular calcium deposit. Inhibition of exosome release in VSMCs decreased calcium deposition. Conclusions: Our results illustrated a novel mechanism of nHAp-induced vascular calcification. Understanding the role of nHAp in autophagy-lysosome-exosome pathway in SMCs could have great clinical significance in preventing the progression of VC.
Comparative Study of Magnesium, Sodium Valproate, and Concurrent Magnesium- Sodium Valproate Therapy in the Prevention of Migraine: A Randomized Controlled Double-Blind Trial.
Authors: Khani Samira , Hejazi Seyed Amir , yaghubi Mehdi Mehdi , Sharifipour Ehsan 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
ObjectiveThis study aimed to assess the efficacy of concurrent magnesium-sodium valproate therapy and compare it with either magnesium or sodium valproate alone in the prevention of migraine prophylaxis. Materials and MethodsThis randomized single-center double-blind parallel-group controlled clinical trial study was conducted on migraine patients within the age range of 18-65 years. The subjects with at least four monthly attacks were randomly assigned to group A (n=82), group B (n=70), and group C (n=70) with the administration of sodium valproate, magnesium-sodium valproate, and magnesium, respectively. The patients passed a one-month baseline without prophylactic therapy and then received a 3-month treatment. The characteristics of migraine, including frequency, severity, duration of the attacks, and the number of painkillers taken per month, were monthly recorded in each visit. The Migraine Disability Assessment (MIDAS) and Headache Impact Test-6 (HIT-6) scores were recorded at the baseline and after 3 months of treatment in each group. Within- and between-group analyses were performed in this study. ResultsThe obtained results revealed a significant reduction in all migraine characteristics in all groups compared with baseline (P<0.001). Intragroup data analysis indicated that there was no statistically significant difference in headache frequency between groups A and B in the third month (P= 0.529); nevertheless, three other parameters showed a significant reduction in group B, compared to those reported in group A in the third month (P<0.05). On the other hand, group C could not effectively reduce measured parameters in the patients, compared to groups A and B after three months (P<0.001). Furthermore, the MIDAS and HIT-6 scores diminished significantly in groups A, B, and C compared with baseline (P<0.001), and also these changes were more significant in groups A and B than group C (P<0.001). ConclusionThe obtained results of this study revealed that magnesium could enhance the antimigraine properties of sodium valproate in combination therapy and reduce the required valproate dose for migraine prophylaxis.
Neural control of rhythmic limb motion is shaped by size and speed
Authors: Sutton Gregory , Szczecinski Nicholas , Quinn Roger , Chiel Hillel 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Over many size and time scales, behaviors such as locomotion or feeding require mechanical movements. Size and time in turn determine a behavior’s dominant mechanical properties: mass, stiffness or viscous damping. The constraints for limbed behaviors can thus be quantified by two variables: limb size and limb speed, defining a ‘mechanics space’ that shows the relative magnitude of each mechanical property for animals ranging from fruit fly to elephant. The mechanics space has three distinct regions: 1) an inertia-dominated region; 2) a gravity or elastic-force-dominated region; and 3) a viscous-force-dominated region. In the mass-dominated region, associated with large limbs moving rapidly, muscle work is translated into primarily kinetic energy. Thus, stable motion requires compensatory control and active damping. In the elastic-force-dominated region, associated with small limbs moving slowly, muscle energy is translated into primarily gravitational or elastic potential energy. Thus, compensatory control and active damping are unnecessary. Lastly, in the viscous region, associated with small limbs moving quickly, joint viscosity acts to damp actuation, resulting in exclusively stable movements. Control and stability of a limb thus depends almost entirely on the size and speed of limb movement, and this has fundamental implications for neural control.
Seroepidemiology Study of Cytomegalovirus and Rubella in Pregnant Women in Luanda, Angola: Geospatial Distribution and its Association with Socio-Demographic and Clinical-Obstetric Determinants
Authors: Vueba Amélia Nkutxi , Faria Clarissa , Almendra Ricardo , Santana Paula , Sousa Maria 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Background: The main objective was to study the seroprevalence of anti-CMV and anti-Rubella antibodies in pregnant women of Luanda (Angola), identify the primary maternal infection during gestation and to evaluate the socio-demographic risk factors associated with CMV and Rubella virus infections. Methods: A prospective cross-sectional study was conducted from August 2016 to May 2017. Blood samples were collected and specific anti-CMV and anti-Rubella antibodies (IgG and IgM) were quantified by electrochemiluminescence (COBAS e411). Demographic and clinical data were collected by standardized questionnaire. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to quantify the effect of clinical and obstetric risk factors on virus seroprevalence. The level of statistical significance was set as p<0.05, and Odds Ratio (OR) and 95% Confidence Intervals (95% CI) were computed. Results: The 396 pregnant women participated in the study aged from 15 to 47. Of the participants, 382 (96.5%) had anti-CMV IgG antibodies, 8 (2.0%) had anti-CMV IgG and IgM antibodies and 6 (1.5%) were seronegative. For Rubella virus, 347 (87.6%) were positive for anti-IgG, 4 (1.0%) positive for anti-IgG and IgM, and 45 (11.4%) were seronegative. The mean age of CMV positivity was 28.4 (SD ± 6.2) and for Rubella virus was 28.6 (SD ± 6.1). The multivariate logistic regression analysis has shown a significant association between Rubella virus infection and pregnant women without child (OR 2.673; CI: 1.026 - 7.007) and suffering spontaneous abortion (OR 3.232; CI: 1.192 - 7.952). In contrast, the level of schooling, residence, occupation, marital status, number of children in the household, basic sanitation, gestational age, history of miscarriages and hepatitis B were not significantly associated with the Rubella virus infection. Conclusions: Overall, this study showed that there is a high seroprevalence of anti-CMV and anti-Rubella antibodies in pregnant women in Luanda. Therefore, it is important a rapid and accurate diagnosis of CMV and Rubella infection in pregnant women to prevent congenital infections. Rubella vaccination should be offered to women non-immune to Rubella. Overall, it would be important to implement national screening for CMV, Rubella and other diseases linked to maternal and child health.