bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Estimation of the degree of gastric mucosal atrophy based on serum pepsinogen levels after eradication of Helicobacter pylori
Authors: Suzuki Takahiro , Higuchi Tomohiro , Kagami Takuma , Yamade Mihoko , Tani Shinya , Hamaya Yasushi , Iwaizumi Moriya , Osawa Satoshi , Sugimoto Ken , Miyajima Hiroaki , Furuta Takahisa 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Background

Serum pepsinogen (PG) levels correlate with the degree of gastric mucosal inflammation and atrophy, which correlate with gastric cancer risk, in patients infected with Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori). Serum PG levels change after eradication of H. pylori, but it is not known if there are corresponding changes in the gastric mucosa. We examined whether the degree of gastric atrophy correlated with PG levels measured after eradication of H. pylori.
Methods

We retrospectively examined the relationship between gastric atrophy and serum levels of PG I, PG II and PG I/II ratios measured after eradication of H. pylori. The degree of gastric mucosal atrophy before H. pylori eradication was scored (0, 1, 2) according to the Kyoto classification of gastritis.
Results

A total of 430 treated patients were enrolled. Serum levels of PG I (ρ = − 0.362 and P < 0.001), PG II (ρ = − 0.158 and P = 0.001) and PG I/II ratio (ρ = − 0.337 and P < 0.001) all correlated negatively with atrophy scores. When PG I/II was less than 3.4, 5.4 or 6.7, the probability of the open type of gastric atrophy was estimated to be 75%, 50%, or 25%, respectively.
Conclusion

Our results suggest that serum PG levels measured after H. pylori eradication can be used to estimate the degree of gastric mucosal atrophy and are useful for selecting individuals with a high risk of gastric cancer after H. pylori eradication.
Patterns and risk factors of cognitive decline among community-dwelling Korean older adults: The Korean Longitudinal Study of Aging (2006–2016)
Authors: Shin Jinhee , Cho Eunhee 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Background

Dementia prevalence is increasing worldwide, and thus, the global impact of cognitive impairment and dementia has become a priority public health issue. This study aimed to assess the patterns of and risk factors for cognitive decline over time in community-dwelling Korean adults aged ≥ 65 years.
Methods

Older adults with normal cognitive function at baseline in 2006 were evaluated, and changes in their cognitive function were followed over time. The data were obtained from the 2006–2016 Korean Longitudinal Study of Aging. Cognitive function in 2016 was classified based on the Korean-Mini-Mental State Examination score as normal, mild dementia, and moderate and severe dementia. The t-test, ANOVA, and linear mixed models were used to analyse the patterns and risk factors f cognitive decline over time.
Results

Of the 1,262 participants examined, 752 maintained normal cognitive function, 267 older adults showed a change from normal cognitive function to mild dementia, and 243 older adults showed a decline from normal cognitive function to moderate and severe dementia between 2006 and 2016. There were significant differences in cognitive function over time among the three groups, and these were influenced by age, gender, education level, religion, activities of daily living, instrumental activities of daily living, regular exercise, number of meetings with friends, and depression. The differences have gradually increased over 10 years.
Conclusions

This study identified the patterns of cognitive decline over time and important factors related to cognitive decline. Individualised interventions such as improving physical function through regular exercise, increasing social activity, and managing depression by early detection and treatment may contribute to maintain cognitive function.
Learning to Predict in-hospital mortality risk in intensive care unit with attention-based Temporal convolution network
Authors: Chen Yu-wen , Li Yu-jie , Yang Zhi-yong , Zhong Kun-hua , Zhang Li-ge , Chen Yang , Zhi Hong-yu , Deng Peng , Wang Dan-dan , Gu Jian-teng , Ning Jiao-lin , Lu Kai-zhi , Zhang Ju , Xia Zheng-yuan , Yi Bin 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Background: Dynamic prediction of patients’ mortality risk in ICU with time series data is limited due to the high dimensionality, uncertainty with sampling intervals, and other issues. New deep learning method, temporal convolution network (TCN), makes it possible to deal with complex clinical time series data in ICU. We aimed to develop and validate it to predict mortality risk using time series data from MIMIC III dataset. Methods: 21139 records of ICU stays were analyzed and in total 17 physiological variables from the MIMIC III dataset were used to predict mortality risk. Then we compared the model performances of attention-based TCN with traditional artificial intelligence (AI) method. Results: Area Under Receiver Operating Characteristic (AUCROC) and Area Under Precision-Recall curve (AUC-PR) of attention-based TCN for predicting the mortality risk 48h after ICU admission were 0.837(0.824 -0.850) and 0.454. The sensitivity and specificity of attention-based TCN were 67.1% and 82.6%, compared to the traditional AI method yield low sensitivity (<50%). Conclusions: Attention-based TCN model achieved better performance in prediction of mortality risk with time series data than traditional AI methods and conventional score-based models. Attention-based TCN mortality risk model has the potential for helping decision-making in critical patients.
Neutrophil-Lymphocyte Count Ratio Better Predict Prognosis than Conventional Markers in Critical Patients? A Multiple-Centered Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Zhou Tao , Zheng Nan , Li Xiang , Zhu Dongmei , HAN YI 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Background: Neutrophil-lymphocyte count ratio (NLCR) has been reported as better indicator of bacteremia than procalcitonin (PCT), and better predictor of mortality than C-reactive protein (CRP) in various medical conditions. However, large controversy remains upon this topic. We compared the efficiency of NLCR with conventional inflammatory markers in predicting the prognosis of critical illness. Methods: We performed a multiple-centered retrospective cohort study consisting of 536 ICU patients with outcomes of survival, 28- and 7-day mortality. NLCR was compared with conventional inflammatory markers such as PCT, C-reactive protein (CRP), serum lactate (LAC), white blood cell, neutrophil and severity score APACHE II (Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II) to evaluate the predictive value on outcomes of critical illness. Then receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curves were constructed to assess and compare each marker’s sensitivity and specificity respectively. Results: NLCR values were not differential among survival and mortality groups. Meanwhile remarkable differences were observed upon APACHE II score, CRP, PCT and LAC levels among survival and death groups. ROC analysis revealed that NLCR was not competent to predict prognosis of critical illness. The AUROCs of conventional markers such as CRP, PCT, LAC and APACHE II score were more significant in predicting 28- and 7-day mortality. Conclusions: NLCR is not competent and less reliable than conventional markers CRP, PCT, LAC and APACHE II score in assessing severity and in predicting outcomes of critical illness.
Association Between Meteorological Factors and Coronary Heart Disease in Northeast China
Authors: Huang Jinling , Zheng Liqiang , Zhu Jinghai 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Background: To investigate the effect of daily meteorological factors in northeast China on coronary heart disease and explore in depth the impact of the environment on health. Methods: The population data primarily included daily coronary heart disease hospitalizations between January 1, 2015 and December 31, 2019, comprising a total of 25,461 patients. The meteorological data included daily temperature, barometric pressure, relative humidity, precipitation, and wind speed between January 1, 2015 and December 31, 2019. A multiple linear regression model was constructed for analyzing the relationship between meteorological factors and coronary heart disease.Results: After controlling for confounding factors, the mean monthly temperature negatively correlated with the monthly number of coronary heart disease hospitalizations, particularly in the warm season (Apr–Sep; β = –12.468, p < 0.05).Conclusions: In the warm season and during a mild weather, high temperature might be a protective factor against coronary heart disease.
Can the sedentary behavior of young male basketball and volleyball players impact the bone mass and bone geometry?
Authors: Etchebehere Mauricio , Bergamo Raiany Rosa , Carvalho Humberto Moreira , Moraes Anderson Marques de , Guerra-Junior Gil 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Background: Sedentary behavior is considered a health risk independent of physical activity. We evaluated the relationship between sedentary behavior, bone mass, and bone geometry among young male basketball and volleyball players.Methods: Fifty-five athletes (basketball n=21; volleyball n=34) aged 14 to 17 years old were included. Body composition and bone mass were measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, comprising bone mineral density, bone mineral content at the lumbar spine (L1-L4), and femoral neck. Bone quality was evaluated by bone geometry considering the femur strength index, section modulus, cross-sectional moment of inertia, and cross-sectional area. Information on all foods and beverages were obtained by a nutritionist through a 24-hour food recall and a semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire. The sedentary behavior was assessed using the Adolescent Sedentary Activity Questionnaire. A series of multilevel linear regression models were fitted to explore whether there was variation for players' body composition, bone parameters, diary nutrient intake and sedentary behavior by sport. All models were fitted using Bayesian methods.Results: Body composition and bone mass values were high for both basketball and volleyball players. However, there was no substantial variation between players by sport for body composition. Adjusting for age, there was no association of sedentary behavior on both bone mass and geometry among the athletes. Except for femoral strength index, age had a substantial moderate to large association with all bone mass and geometry indicators. Lastly, there was no substantial influence of sport (level-2 unit) on the estimates of the association between sedentary behavior and age with bone mass and geometry, as uncertainty estimates for group-level effects were high. Conclusions: In conclusion, there is no association between sedentary behaviour and bone mass and bone geometry, showing that accumulated training loads (15+ h/week) among young basketball and volleyball players are critical; they produce a positive stimulus on bone mass and bone geometry development.
Prevalence of sarcopenia and associations of sarcopenia components with physical function and health-related quality of life in Australian older adults performing exercise training
Authors: Akehurst Ewelina , Scott David , Rodriguez Juan Peña , Gonzalez Carol Alonso , Murphy Jasmaine , Dorgo Sandor , Hayes Alan 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Background

Sarcopenia can be prevented and treated with exercise, particularly resistance training. Our aim was to explore the prevalence of sarcopenia and associations of its components with self-reported function and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in older adults training at conventional or Helsinki University Research [HUR] gyms owned and operated by an aged care provider, Uniting AgeWell in Melbourne.
Methods

Eighty community-dwelling older adults (mean ± SD 76.5\(\pm\)6.5 years) already undergoing resistance training were assessed for muscle strength (hand grip strength and chair stands), appendicular lean mass, and physical performance (gait speed [GS], short physical performance battery [SPPB], timed up and go [TUG] and 400-metre walk [400mW]). Pearson correlations examined associations of sarcopenia components with self-reported function (via SARC-F) and HRQoL (via AQoL-4D) in which higher scores mean worse function and better quality, respectively.
Results

Sarcopenia prevalence ranged from 1.3–10.3% depending on the definition applied, with no significant differences between gym types. In the HUR group, GS (r=-0.593) and SPPB (r=-0.626) were negatively associated (p < 0.001) with function, while TUG (r = 0.683; p < 0.01) was positively associated with function. Similar associations were observed with the HRQoL independent living component. Equivalent associations for conventional gym participants were observed for SPPB and TUG (function) and GS and TUG (HRQoL). Additionally, 400 mW time (r = 0.537) and appendicular lean mass (r = 0.586) were positively associated with function in the conventional gym users (p < 0.01). Similar, but negative, associations of 400 mW (r=-0.553; p < 0.01) were also observed with HRQoL, suggesting better function was linked to independent living and better mental health. Hand grip strength was not associated with function or HRQoL in either group.
Conclusion

Sarcopenia prevalence in community-dwelling older adults participating in supervised exercise programs was low and did not differ based on gym type. Mobility-related measures, fitness and lean mass measures in conventional gym users only were associated with function and HRQoL. However, muscle strength was not associated with these outcomes.
Zinc Monotherapy for Young Patients with Presymptomatic Wilson Disease: A Single Center, Retrospective Study
Authors: Hou Haiman , Chen Dingbang , Liu Junxiu , Feng Li , Zhang Jiwei , Liang Xiuling , Xu Yuming , Li Xunhua 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Background

Few studies have focused on the treatment failure of zinc monotherapy for presymptomatic Wilson disease (WD) patients. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the long-term efficacy of zinc monotherapy in presymptomatic patients and to analyze the possible factors that may influence the outcome of this treatment.
Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of presymptomatic WD patients who received zinc monotherapy from the time of diagnosis. Then, the characteristics of patients who were treated with zinc monotherapy successfully and those who experienced treatment failure were investigated.
Results

Forty presymptomatic WD patients were identified that have received zinc monotherapy as initial treatment, with a median age of 3.83 years at the time of diagnosis. 36 (90%) patients had abnormal alanine transaminase/aspartate transaminase levels at baseline. None of the patients became symptomatic during zinc monotherapy. 28 (70%, Group 1) patients were treated with zinc monotherapy successfully for a median period of 2.8 years. In Group 1, serum aminotransferase levels significantly decreased 6 and 12 months after zinc therapy compared to the baseline levels (P < 0.05). 12 (30%, Group 2) patients experienced treatment failure with zinc monotherapy due to uncontrolled serum liver enzyme levels, and D-penicillamine was combined. The baseline 24-hour urine copper levels before treatment were significantly higher in Group 2 compared to that in Group 1 (P = 0.018). Comparing the age at onset; ceruloplasmin, serum copper, ALT, and AST levels; and proportions of abdominal ultrasonography abnormality at baseline between Groups 1 and 2 revealed no statistically significant differences.
Conclusions

We found that high initial 24-hour urinary copper levels may lead to treatment failure of zinc monotherapy in presymptomatic WD patients. It might be reasonable to follow up liver function tests more closely during zinc monotherapy and to begin combination treatment with chelators early in patients with high level of 24-hour urinary copper.
WITHDRAWN: Discovery of New Metallic and Superconducting Phase in GaTa4Se8 Under High Pressure
Authors: Deng Hongshan , Zhang Jianbo , Jeong Min Yong , Sereika Raimundas , Wang Dong , Nakagawa Takeshi , Chen Bijuan , Yin Xia , Ren Ji-Chang , Han Myung Joon , Chang Jun , Weng Hongming , Ding Yang , Mao Ho-Kwang 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Pressure is a unique thermodynamic variable to explore the phase competitions and novel phases inaccessible at ambient conditions. The resistive switching material GaTa4Se8 displays several quantum phases under pressure, such as Jeff = 3/2 Mott insulator, correlated quantum magnetic metal, and d-wave topological superconductivity, which has recently drawn mounting interest. Using high-pressure Raman, X-ray diffraction, extended X-ray absorption, and transport measurements, together with theoretical calculations, we reveal a remarkably rich phase diagram of this molecular magnetic Mott insulator at pressures up to ~ 68 GPa. In this previously unreached pressure regime, we find, GaTa4Se8 exhibits a new metallic phase whose structural and magnetic properties are clearly distinctive from the lower pressure one. Further, we identify a new superconducting phase in this high-pressure regime below Tc ~ 5.5K. Our discoveries highlight GaTa4Se8 as a unique playground in which novel quantum phases and orders coexist and compete with each other; ranges from Mott insulator to Fermi liquid and exhibits multiple metallic and superconducting states.
Risk Factors for Problematic Alcohol Use Among Male Waste Pickers and Caddies in Johannesburg, South Africa: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Mdlel Simbulele Onesimo , Wilson Kerry , Ntlebi Vusi , Made Felix , Kootbodien Tahira , Tlotleng Nonhlanhla , Makhubele Matimba , Naicker Nisha 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
BackgroundInformal workers may be prone to problematic substance use due to many factors, including adverse working conditions and low income. Therefore, research must be conducted to improve the lifestyle of this vulnerable group of workers. This research aimed to assess problematic alcohol use and risk factors among male informal workers in Johannesburg.MethodsTwo groups of informal workers, waste pickers, and golf caddies were included. Alcohol use was measured using the World Health Organization (WHO) Alcohol Use Disorder Identification Test (AUDIT) tool. The WHO self-reporting questionnaire (SRQ) for common mental health disorders (CMD) was used to assess mental health. Data analysis included demographic analysis of the participants, assessment of substance use, and the ascertainment of drinking problem risk factors.ResultsThe study consisted of 514 participants, of which 48.4% were golf caddies and 51.6%, waste pickers. Most participants were younger than 40 years (50.9%). Over half of the participants (54.7%) were alcohol consumers and 74.1% were smokers. Over 60% of the participants who were alcohol consumers had a probable drinking problem. The prevalence of mental distress in the study group was 27% mental distress. Unstratified regression results showed that informal workers positive for mental distress were more likely to have a probable drinking problem (aOR=1.06; 95%CI: 1.01 – 1.11). Informal workers aged 30 – 40 years (aOR=2.06; 95%CI: 1.13 – 3.75), and those who were smokers (aOR=2.25; 95%CI: 1.33 – 3.80) were also more likely to have a probable drinking problem.ConclusionProblematic drinking amongst informal workers in this study was common along with smoking. Problematic alcohol use was associated with the type of informal work, mental distress, age, and smoking. Measures such as providing counselling services to informal workers and improvement of working conditions are needed to change the behaviours of this vulnerable group.
Sarcopenia in elderly major trauma; A single centre retrospective analysis of psoas and masseter muscle groups
Authors: Varma Surabhi , Wilson Michael SJ , Naik Mitesh , Sandhu Amandeep , Ota Helen Chidera Uchenna , Aylwin Christopher , Fertleman Michael , Peck George 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Background

There is an emerging role for the radiological evaluation of the psoas muscle as a marker of sarcopenia, and as a prognostic discriminant in elderly patients with traumatic injuries. Older trauma patients are more likely to undergo cranial than abdomino-pelvic imaging. Identifying sarcopenia using masseter cross sectional area (M-CSA) has shown correlation with mortality. We sought to determine the correlation between psoas: lumbar vertebral index (PLVI) and the M-CSA, and their association with health outcomes.
Methods

Patients aged 65 or above, who presented as a trauma call over a 1 year period were included if they underwent cranial or abdominal CT imaging. Images were retrospectively analyzed to obtain PLVI and mean M-CSA measurements. Electronic records were abstracted for demographics and outcomes. Logistic regression methods, log scale analyses, Cox regression model and Kaplan-Meier plots were used to determine association of sarcopenia with outcomes.
Results

There were 155 eligible patients in the M-CSA group and 204 patients in the PLVI group. Sarcopenia was defined as the lowest quartile in each group. Both PLVI and M-CSA measurements were available in 142 patients. Pearson’s correlation indicated a weakly positive linear relationship (r = 0.35, p < 0.001) between these. There was no statistical association between M-CSA sarcopenia status and any measured outcomes. Those with PLVI sarcopenia were more likely to die in hospital (adjusted OR 3.38, 95% CI 1.47–9.73, p = 0.006) and at 2-years (adjusted HR 1.90, 95% CI 1.11–3.25, p = 0.02). Only 29% patients with PLVI sarcopenia were discharged home, compared with 58% without sarcopenia (p = 0.001).
Conclusion

Sarcopenia, defined by PLVI, is predictive of increased in-patient and 2- year mortality. Our study did not support prognostic relevance of M-CSA. Further research should be directed at improving the validity of masseter measurements or identifying alternative radiological determinants of sarcopenia on cranial imaging.