bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The effects of vitamin D on albuminuria relative to blood lead in patients with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Wang Bin , Wan Heng , Cheng Jing , Chen Yingchao , Wang Yuying , Chen Yi , Chen Chi , Zhang Wen , Xia Fangzhen , Wang Ningjian , Lu Yingli 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Background: Environmental lead exposure has been linked with reduced kidney function. However, evidence about its role in diabetic kidney damage, especially when considering the nutritional status of vitamin D, is sparse. Methods: This observational study comprised 4,033 diabetic patients from seven communities in Shanghai, China. The associations of blood lead with urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR) and albuminuria, defined as UACR ≥30 mg/g, according to serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] levels were analyzed using linear and Poisson regression models, respectively. Results: A doubling of blood lead level was associated with a 10.7% higher UACR (95% CI, 6.19% to 15.5%) in diabetic patients with 25(OH)D <50 nmol/L, whereas the estimate declined to 2.03% (95% CI, −5.18% to 9.78%) in those with 25(OH)D ≥50 nmol/L. The difference in the association for albuminuria prevalence was also observed between the two groups, with risk ratios of 1.09 (95% CI, 1.03–1.15) and 0.99 (95% CI, 0.86–1.14) per doubling of blood lead level, respectively. Furthermore, the increment of UACR in relation to blood lead appeared to be two times higher in patients with 25(OH)D <50 nmol/L and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) <60 mL/min/1.73 m2 than those with eGFR ≥60 mL/min/1.73 m2. While in patients with 25(OH)D ≥50 nmol/L, there was no association between blood lead and UACR regardless of eGFR category. Conclusions: Higher blood lead levels were associated with increased urinary albumin excretion in diabetic patients with vitamin D deficiency, which became more pronounced in the presence of reduced eGFR. Further prospective studies are needed to validate our findings and to determine whether vitamin D supplementation yields a benefit.
The Incidence of Pulmonary Thromboembolism in Critically Ill Patients With&nbsp;COVID-19: A Systematic Review, Meta-Analysis and Meta-Regression of Observational Studies
Authors: Ng Jun Jie , Liang Zhen Chang , Choong Andrew MTL 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Purpose Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection is known to be associated with a hypercoagulable and prothrombotic state, especially in critically ill patients. Several observational studies have reported the incidence of thromboembolic events such as pulmonary thromboembolism (PTE). We performed a meta-analysis to estimate the weighted average incidence of PTE in critically ill COVID-19 patients who are admitted to the intensive care unit.Methods We searched MEDLINE via PubMed, Embase and Web of Science for relevant studies from 31 December 2019 till 15 Aug 2020 onwards using the search terms “coronavirus”, “COVID-19”, “SARS-CoV-2”, “2019-nCoV”, “thrombus”, “thrombo*”, “embolus” and “emboli*”. We included prospective and retrospective observational studies that reported the incidence of PTE in critically ill COVID-19 patients who required treatment in the intensive care unit. We identified 14 studies after two phases of screening and extracted data related to study characteristics, patient demographics and the incidence of PTE. Risk of bias was assessed by using the ROBINS-I tool. Statistical analysis was performed with R 3.6.3.Results We included 14 studies with a total of 1182 patients in this study. Almost 100% of patients in this meta-analysis received at least prophylactic anticoagulation. The weighted average incidence of PTE was 11.09% (95% CI 7.72% to 15.69%, I2 = 78%, Cochran’s Q test P < 0.01). We performed univariate and multivariate meta-regression which identified the proportion of males as a significant source of heterogeneity (P = 0.03, 95% CI 0.00 to -0.09)Conclusion This is the only study that had specifically reported the weighted average incidence of PTE in critically ill COVID-19 patients using meta-analytic techniques. The weighted average incidence of PTE remains high even after prophylactic anticoagulation. This study is limited by incomplete data from included studies. More studies are needed to determine the optimal anticoagulation strategy in critically ill COVID-19 patients.
Urbanization-gradient-, gender- and age-specific prevalence of metabolic syndrome abnormal components and their accumulation in adults in Burkina Faso: analysis of the first national data
Authors: Diendéré Jeoffray , Kaboré Ahmed , Kaboré Jean , Lanou Hermann , Fofana Habib , Paré Constant , Zeba Augustin , Méda Nicolas 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Background: Accumulation of metabolic syndrome abnormal components dramatically increases the risk for cardiovascular diseases. This study aimed to assess the specific prevalence of abnormal components according to the urbanization gradient, gender and age, with the cumulative number of abnormalities in Burkinabè, using nationally representative data.Methods: Data of 4365 participants to the Burkina Faso 2013 Stepwise approach to Surveillance study were analysed, including sociodemographic parameters (with age-groups of 25-34; 35-44; 45-54 and 55-64y), components defined with the International Diabetes Federation criteria (waist circumference [WC], blood pressure [BP], high-density lipoprotein cholesterol [HDL-C], fasting blood glucose [FBG]). The urbanization gradient was the four quartiles of the regional urbanization rates.Results: Between quartiles, prevalences (%) of abnormal components significantly differed and the extremes were: 71.1-81.2 in men(♂), 75.9-81.2 in women(♀) for low HDL-C; 32.8-48.2(♂), 21.5-51.6(♀) for elevated BP; 3.4-7.3(♂), 30.8-45.5(♀) for high WC; 6.2-11.0(♂), 6.7-14.2(♀) for high FBG; 2.8-7.3(♂), 9.6-24.0(♀) for individuals who cumulated at least three abnormalities; and the extreme means in cumulative number of abnormalities were 1.3-1.5(♂), 1.4-1.9(♀). Between age-groups, prevalences significantly differed and the extremes were: 71.9-81.6(♂), 71.8-83.1(♀) for low HDL-C; 32.3-49.1(♂), 23.8-30.3(♀) for elevated BP; 2.0-14.0(♂), 24.8-65.3(♀) for high WC; 6.4-13.0(♂), 5.5-10.4(♀) for high FBG; 2.5-12.0(♂), 8.5-25.8(♀) for individuals who cumulated at least three abnormalities; and the extreme means in number of abnormalities were 1.2-1.4(♂), 1.4-1.9(♀).Conclusion: The low HDL-C was nationally prevalent and could serve as a background to the metabolic abnormalities’ accumulation, which worsened with the process of urbanization and demographic transition, and more severely in women.
The Timing of Oesophageal Dilatations in&nbsp;Anastomotic Stenosis After One-Stage Anastomosis for Congenital Oesophageal Atresia
Authors: Ye Hong , chen qiang , Huang Jinxi , Hong Junjie , hong songming 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Background: In infants with congenital oesophageal atresia, anastomotic stenosis easily occurs after one-stage oesophageal anastomosis, leading to dysphagia. In severe cases, oesophageal dilatation is required. In this paper, the timing of oesophageal dilatation in infants with anastomotic stenosis was investigated through retrospective data analysis.Methods: The clinical data of 107 infants with oesophageal atresia who underwent one-stage anastomosis in our hospital from January 2015 to December 2018 were retrospectively analysed. Data such as the timing and frequency of oesophageal dilatation under gastroscopy after surgery were collected to analyse the timing of oesophageal dilatation in infants with different risk factors.Results: For infants with refractory stenosis, the average number of dilatations in the early dilatation group (the first dilatation was performed within 6 months after the surgery) was 5.75±0.5, which was higher than the average of 7.40±1.35 times in the normal dilatation group (the first dilatation was performed 6 months after the surgery), P=0.038. For the infants with anastomotic fistula and anastomotic stenosis, the number of oesophageal dilatations in the early dilatation group was 2.58±2.02 times, which was less than the 6.38±2.06 times in the normal dilatation group, P=0.001. For infants with non-anastomotic fistula stenosis, early oesophageal dilatation could not reduce the total number of oesophageal dilatations.Conclusion: Starting to perform oesophageal dilatation within 6 months after one-stage anastomosis for congenital oesophageal atresia can reduce the required number of dilatations in infants with postoperative anastomotic fistula and refractory anastomotic stenosis.
Evaluation of the effects of Covid 19 on the mental health of staff in a private hospital for coronary patients
Authors: Nodoushan Reza Jafari , Alimoradi Hadi , Nazari Mahsa 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Background: Corona epidemic and quarantine enforcement, various effects on the psychological and social aspects of the population has left. The aim of this study is to investigate the relationship between depression, anxiety and relationship with medical staff and mental health is caused by corona.Methods: For this purpose, samples of 650 health personnel of private hospitals were selected. Inventory DASS, HADS, and the Internet and through social media networks were evaluated. To analyze the data, Pearson correlation and regression analysis were used.Results: The results showed that straw anxiety corona) to negative (and social cohesion caused by corona) to positive (mental health correlates. It was also found that anxiety caused by Corona, respectively 47 and 26 percent predict changes in mental health.Conclusion: These results show the positive and negative effects of psychosocial interventions in quarantine and it have practical implications in the development of the epidemic crisis is Corona.
The protective of baicalin on pulmonary hypertension vascular remodeling through regulation of TNF-α signaling pathway
Authors: Xue Xia , Jiang Wen , Sun Chao , Wang Jue , Xin Qian , Li Kaili , Qi Tonggang , Luan Yun 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Background: Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a life-threatening disease, so far no effective method for it. Baicalin can attenuate pulmonary artery pressure and reduce right ventricular hypertrophy in PH, however, the potential mechanism remains unexplored. Therefore, the main aim of the present study was to investigate the protective effect and of baicalin on experimental PH vascular remodeling, and reveal the underlying mechanism.Methods: Monocrotaline (MCT)-induced PH rats models was established, and baicalin was given by intragastric administration. Six weeks later, right ventricular systolic pressure (RVSP) and right ventricular hypertrophy index (RVHI) were recorded, lung tissue hematoxylin-eosin (H&E) staining was analysis to reveal the effect of baicalin on MCT-induced PH. In Vitro, we established TNF-α induced pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells (PASMCs) to detect the inhibition of baicalin on vascular remodeling. Furthermore, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), western blot and immunofluorescence were used to detect the mRNA and protein expressions.Results: Our results indicated that baicalin could significantly attenuate MCT induced the RVSP and the right ventricular hypertrophy index (RVHI); inhibit pulmonary vascular remodeling and lung fibrosis. Moreover, our results showed baicalin could significantly decrease the expression of inflammatory cytokines, but increase the protein expression of bone morphogenetic protein type II receptor (BMPR2), ID1 and Smad1//5/8.Conclusion:Taken together, our present study confirmed the mechanism of baicalin against PH was associated with inhibition of TNF-α signaling pathway.
Evaluation of the Diagnostic Value of Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte Count Ratio (NLR) and Platelet-to-lymphocyte Ratio (PLR) for Identifying Serious Infection (SI) and Serious Bacterial Infection (SBI) in Febrile Young Infants &lt; 90 Days Old
Authors: Xean Khoo Zi , Ling Chong Shu , Yong-Kwang Gene Ong 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Background:Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) are simple and easy to calculate biomarkers. They have been reported as a predictor of severity and prognosis in adult patients with bacteremia. However, there is a paucity of literature examining the use of NLR and PLR as a diagnostic biomarker in pediatrics. This study aims to evaluate the diagnostic value of the NLR and PLR for identifying serious infections (SI) and serious bacterial infections (SBI) in febrile young infants <90 days old. Methods: A retrospective review of neonates and infants who were admitted for evaluation of fever between 1st July 2018 and 31st December 2018 were reviewed retrospectively. Patients aged less than 90 days of life admitted for fever from the emergency department were included. Patient age, gender, comorbidities, body temperature, clinical findings and initial laboratory results including white blood cell (WBC) count, NLR, PLR, serum levels of C-Reactive Protein (CRP) were assessed, and the microbiological investigations and final clinical diagnoses were evaluated. Results: There were 561 patients identified for inclusion. SI and SBI were diagnosed in 166 (29.6%) and 98 (17.5%) patients. Mean absolute neutrophil count, NLR were significantly higher in the SI group compared to the non-SI group (1.39±1.04 vs 1.09±0.87, p=0.001). The NLR was also significantly different in the SBI compared to the non-SBI group (1.38±0.88 vs 1.13±0.94, p=0.019). PLR did not show statistical significance in differentiating SI or SBI from non SI or SBI group. For SI and SBI, the area under the Receiver Operating Characteristic (AUROC) curve value of NLR was 0.57 (95 % CI 0.46-0.69) and 0.61 (95% CI 0.48-0.73), respectively. Although we found significantly higher NLR values in infants with SI and SBI, our results indicate that CRP was more accurate at detecting SI and SBI. Conclusion: Our study provided initial evidence on the use of the NLR in combination with other biomarkers in the diagnosis of serious infection and serious bacterial infection in young infants < 90 days’ of life. Prospective evaluation of this finding is needed to assess further its clinical value in the evaluation of young febrile infants for SI and SBI.
Embryos From "0PN" Zygotes May Be Most Likely 2PN&nbsp;Embryo in L-R-ICSI&nbsp;
Authors: Liu Caixia , Han Dong , Chen Jianguo , Liu Ying , Li Dong , Zhou Yan , Zhang Chaofan , Liu Jie 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Although some zero pronuclei (0PN) zygotes cleave and develop into good embryos, they are usually discarded because they lack two distinct pronuclei (2PN). In this case report, we followed four couples to determine whether 0PN embryo could be used in late rescue intracytoplasmic sperm injection (L-R-ICSI). Here we report five healthy infants, including one set of twins, derived from "0PN" embryos from four frozen–warmed embryo transfer (FET) cycles in L-R-ICSI between 2015 and 2017. Of nine infants born from L-R-ICSI cycles in our center, five were "0PN" embryos, and all remain healthy. Embryos from "0PNs" such as 2PN can develop into healthy babies using L-R-ICSI. This finding suggests that embryos from "0PNs" in L-R-ICSI may be different from traditional 0PN gametes and more likely to originate from 2PN gametes and they may be used in those infertile couples who lack 2PN embryos, instead of discarding them. The use of "0PN" embryos increases the cycles reaching embryo transfer, allowing some infertile couples to have healthy children and to avoid mental anguish and wasted time and money.
Impact of the early-ripening Champa rice – Are they aus?
Authors: Wu Cheng-Chieh , Huang Lin-Tzu , Tsai Yuan-Ching , Quynh Ha Thi , Trung Nguyen Quoc , Wu Dong-Hong , Hsing Yue-ie 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Background The early-ripening rice races are important because they may escape droughts, avoid floods and reduce the growing period. Thus, they could be cultivated for at least two cropping seasons each year in sub-tropical or tropical areas. According to Song Dynasty history, many rice accessions were brought to China from the Champa Kingdom, and these lines were drought-resistant and non-photoperiod–sensitive. Here, we address the impact of Champa rice on rice production, and which subtype the Champa rice belong to.Results We performed a phylogenetic analysis of rice landraces in China and Taiwan that had the word “Champa” in their names. We also cooperated with rice breeders in Vietnam, where the ancient Champa Kingdom was. Together with the publicly available genome sequencing data, we confirmed that many Taiwan landraces are also Champa rice. We also showed that these Champa rice played important roles in ancient and modern rice production. The most famous landrace is Dee Geo Woo Gen, one of the parental lines of IR8. This landrace had a loss-of-function semi-dwarf 1 gene and thus is lodging-resistant. In addition, Champa rice is indica type but not aus.Conclusions Champa rice is a group of indica rice. Many Champa rice accessions are early maturing and are resistant to biotic and abiotic stresses. Some are key accessions in the “green revolution” and have been very important in the modern breeding program.
Hyperglycemia as a risk factor in pancreatic cancer: a nested case-control study using prediagnostic blood glucose levels
Authors: Jacobson Sara , Franklin Oskar , Dahlqvist Per , Johansson Mattias , Svensson Johan , Billing Ola , Sund Malin 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Background: To determine the risk association between fasting glucose levels and pancreatic cancer using systematically collected prediagnostic blood glucose samplesMethods: Prospective nested case-control study of participants from the Northern Sweden Health and Disease Study, including 182 cases that developed pancreatic cancer and four matched controls per case. Blood glucose levels, at fasting and after an oral glucose tolerance test, collected up to 24 years before pancreatic cancer diagnosis were analyzed. The association between fasting glucose levels and pancreatic cancer risk was determined using unconditional and conditional logistic regression models and trend analysis. The association between fasting glucose and the time to pancreatic cancer diagnosis, tumor stage and survival was determined using a likelihood-ratio test, t-test and log-rank test.Results: The unadjusted risk of developing pancreatic cancer increased with increasing fasting glucose levels (OR 1.30, 95% CI 1.05-1.60, P = .015). Impaired fasting glucose (≥6.1 mmol/L) was associated with an adjusted risk of 1.77 for developing pancreatic cancer (95% CI 1.05-2.99, P = .032). The risk association was strongest in never-smokers (OR 4.02, 95% CI 1.26-12.77) and non-diabetics (OR 3.08, 95% CI 1.08-4.79). Fasting glucose levels were not associated with TNM stage at diagnosis or survival.Conclusions: High fasting glucose is associated with an increased risk of developing pancreatic cancer and the risk association is stronger in never-smokers and non-diabetics.
CRESCIMENTO DE PANICUM MAXIMUM CV. BRS ZURI EM RESPOSTA A RIZOBACTÉRIA E NITROGÊNIO
Authors: Picazevicz Angelita Aparecida Coutinho , Shockness Leonardo dos Santos França , Santos Filho Arnaldo Libório , Do Nascimento Izabel Rodrigues , Maciel Lariana Diniz , Da Silva Lucas Rodrigues , Costa Gabriel Elias Gil 
Published: September 2020

Avaliou-se o crescimento de Panicum maximum cv. BRS Zuri em resposta a Azospirillum brasilense e nitrogênio. O experimento foi realizado em casa de vegetação, no delineamento inteiramente casualizado em esquema fatorial 2 x 2, com 8 repetições, considerando a ausência e a presença de Azospirillum brasilense inoculado nas sementes e nitrogênio (50 kg ha-1) aplicado no solo. Verificou-se interação dupla entre os fatores, sendo que na ausência da adubação nitrogenada, por ocasião da semeadura, Azospirillum brasilense foi eficiente no aumento da altura das plantas. Além disso, a inoculação das sementes com este microrganismo resultou no aumento da massa seca da parte aérea, nitrogênio, potássio, cálcio e magnésio total acumulado na parte aérea Panicum maximum cv. BRS Zuri.
Zolpidem in treatment resistant adolescent catatonia: a case series
Authors: Kumar Pravesh , Kumar Deepak 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Catatonia is a well-established psycho-motor disorder occurring in the background of various psychiatric and medical disorders. Catatonia is commonly associated with psychiatric disorders, especially affective disorders followed by schizophrenia. However, almost 20% occur in the background of different medical and neurological disorders which need to be properly examined and investigated. Catatonia is a serious medical and psychiatric emergency condition; most probably caused by alteration in GABAergic circuits and basal ganglia. If untreated, catatonia can cause life threatening complications like dyselectrolemia, respiratory aspiration, venous thromboembolism, acute renal failure and cardiac arrest because of poor oral intake, immobility and muscular rigidity. The risk of mortality or serious life threatening events further increases in cases of children and adolescents. In children and adolescents, thus, it becomes even more important to diagnose catatonia early and start appropriate treatment. Lorazepam is considered to be the first line treatment and is safe both in adults and children. But evidence is scarce for treatment of lorazepam-resistant adolescent Catatonia. In this report we discuss two adolescent patients diagnosed with catatonia with no medical or neurological disorders in the background. Neither of the patients responded to lorazepam alone or even after augmentation with second generation antipsychotic (olanzapine). Zolpidem, like lorazepam, has a positive allosteric effect on GABA A Receptors (GABAAR) and has been used in some cases successfully to treat resistant catatonia. Here we used zolpidem 30 mg/day in divided doses with marked improvement in few days in all the symptoms. Both cases were discharged on zolpidem extended release (ER) three times a day and maintained well through the next two follow ups in over a two month period. Zolpidem can be a good alternative for children and adolescents in resistant cases.
Model selection in radon data fusion
Authors: Zhang Xuze , Pyne Saumyadipta , Kedem Benjamin 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Fitting parametric models or the use of the empirical cumulative distribution function are problematic when it comes to the estimation of tail probabilities from small samples. A possible remedy is to fuse or combine the small samples with additional data from external sources and base the inference on the so called density ratio model with variable tilt functions, which widens the support of the estimated distribution of interest. This approach is illustrated using residential radon concentration data collected from western Pennsylvania.
A generic business process model for conducting microsimulation studies
Authors: Burgard Jan Pablo , Dieckmann Hanna , Krause Joscha , Merkle Hariolf , Münnich Ralf , Neufang Kristina M. , Schmaus Simon 
Published: September 2020

AbstractMicrosimulations make use of quantitative methods to analyze complex phenomena in populations. They allow modeling socioeconomic systems based on micro-level units such as individuals, households, or institutional entities. However, conducting a microsimulation study can be challenging. It often requires the choice of appropriate data sources, micro-level modeling of multivariate processes, and the sound analysis of their outcomes. These work stages have to be conducted carefully to obtain reliable results. We present a generic business process model for conducting microsimulation studies based on an international statistics process model. This simplifies the comprehensive understanding of dynamic microsimulation models. A nine-step procedure that covers all relevant work stages from data selection to output analysis is presented. Further, we address technical problems that typically occur in the process and provide sketches as well as references of solutions.