bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Visfatin associated with major adverse cardiovascular events in patients with acute myocardial infarction
Authors: Zheng Meifan , Lu Nan , Ren Meixia , Chen Haifeng 
Published: June 2020

Abstract
Background
Visfatin is an adipokine that related with the inflammation in atherosclerosis and the destabilization of atherosclerotic plaque. The aim of this study was to observe the relationship between visfatin and major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs) in acute myocardial infarction (AMI) patients.

Methods
We enrolled a total of 238 patients (183 AMI and 55 control) who underwent coronary angiography. Patients with AMI were followed for an average of 19.3 months and 159 patients were finally included in the study.

Results
It was observed patients with AMI had higher serum visfatin levels than controls. The total incidence of MACEs was 11.32% (18/159) in AMI patients. After calculation of the Youden index, the best cut-off value of visfatin on the curve of receiver-operating characteristic was 8.799 ng/mL for predicting the occurrence of MACEs. The occurrence of MACEs was elevated in high-visfatin group (≥8.799 ng/mL) compared with low-visfatin group (≤8.799 ng/mL). The time to MACEs was correlated with visfatin (HR = 1.235, 95%CI 1.051–1.451, P = 0.01) and high-visfatin group had an earlier time to MACEs and a shorter time of cumulative survival.

Conclusions
Increased serum visfatin levels were observed in AMI patients, and correlated with an earlier onset and higher incidence of MACEs.
Effects of trimetazidine on ventricular remodeling in coronary artery disease patients with left ventricular hypertrophy: the rationale and design of a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Wu Lili , Luan Yi , Li Ya , Wang Min , He Jialin , Jin Chongying , Zhang Wenbin 
Published: June 2020

Abstract
Background
Trimetazidine is a metabolic anti-ischemic agent, which increases the tolerance of cardiomyocytes to ischemia. However, few studies have explored the effect of trimetazidine on ventricular remodeling in coronary artery disease (CAD) patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) with left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH).

Methods
It is a randomized, placebo-controlled trial, and we propose to recruit one hundred and twenty-four CAD patients undergoing PCI with LVH during a 12-month period. They will be randomized to receive either trimetazidine (35 mg twice a day) or placebo in the following 12 months after PCI. Blood tests, echocardiography, symptom of angina and major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs) will be collected at follow-up visit at 3 and 12 months. The primary end point will be the left ventricular remodeling measured by left ventricular mass index (LVMI) at 3- and 12-month follow-up compared with the baseline. The secondary end points will be the symptom of angina assessed by Seattle Angina Questionnaire, myocardial ischemia measured by 6-min walk test and exercise electrocardiography test, as well as MACEs (defined as a composite of death, myocardial infarction, stroke, recurrent angina, re-hospitalization, change of viable myocardium).

Discussion
This study aims to demonstrate the effect of trimetazidine on left ventricular remodeling and myocardial ischemia in CAD patients undergoing PCI with LVH. Trimetazidine treatment is likely to improve the left ventricular remodeling, symptoms of angina and myocardial ischemia. It might also reduce the risk of MACEs in CAD patients undergoing PCI with LVH.

Trial registration
http://www.chictr.org.cn, Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR1800017876). Registered on 19 Aug 2018.
Ventricular strain analysis in patients with no structural heart disease using a vendor-independent speckle-tracking software
Authors: Xia Hongmei , Yeung Darwin F. , Di Stefano Cristina , Cha Stephen S. , Pellikka Patricia A. , Ye Zi , Thaden Jeremy J. , Villarraga Hector R. 
Published: June 2020

Abstract
Background
Ventricular strain measurements vary depending on cardiac chamber (left ventricle [LV] or right ventricle [RV]), type of strain (longitudinal, circumferential, or radial), ventricular level (basal, mid, or apical), myocardial layer (endocardial or epicardial), and software used for analysis, among other demographic factors such as age and gender. Here, we present an analysis of ventricular strain taking all of these variables into account in a cohort of patients with no structural heart disease using a vendor-independent speckle-tracking software.

Methods
LV and RV full-thickness strain parameters were retrospectively measured in 102 patients (mean age 39 ± 15 years; 62% female). Within this cohort, we performed further layer-specific strain analysis in 20 subjects. Data were analyzed for global and segmental systolic strain, systolic strain rate, early diastolic strain rate, and their respective time-to-peak values.

Results
Mean LV global longitudinal, circumferential, and radial strain values for the entire cohort were − 18.4 ± 2.0%, − 22.1 ± 4.1%, and 43.9 ± 12.1% respectively, while mean RV global and free wall longitudinal strain values were − 24.2 ± 3.9% and − 26.1 ± 5.2% respectively. Women on average demonstrated higher longitudinal and circumferential strain and strain rate than men, and longer corresponding time-to-peak values. Longitudinal strain measurements were highest at the apex compared with the mid ventricle and base, and in the endocardium compared with the epicardium. Longitudinal strain was the most reproducible measure, followed closely by circumferential strain, while radial strain showed suboptimal reproducibility.

Conclusions
We present an analysis of ventricular strain in patients with no structural heart disease using a vendor-independent speckle-tracking software.
Compbdt: an R program to compare two binary diagnostic tests subject to a paired design
Authors: Roldán-Nofuentes J. A. 
Published: June 2020

AbstractBackgroundThe comparison of the performance of two binary diagnostic tests is an important topic in Clinical Medicine. The most frequent type of sample design to compare two binary diagnostic tests is the paired design. This design consists of applying the two binary diagnostic tests to all of the individuals in a random sample, where the disease status of each individual is known through the application of a gold standard.This article presents an R program to compare parameters of two binary tests subject to a paired design.ResultsThe “compbdt” program estimates the sensitivity and the specificity, the likelihood ratios and the predictive values of each diagnostic test applying the confidence intervals with the best asymptotic performance. The program compares the sensitivities and specificities of the two diagnostic tests simultaneously, as well as the likelihood ratios and the predictive values, applying the global hypothesis tests with the best performance in terms of type I error and power. When the global hypothesis test is significant, the causes of the significance are investigated solving the individual hypothesis tests and applying the multiple comparison method of Holm. The most optimal confidence intervals are also calculated for the difference or ratio between the respective parameters. Based on the data observed in the sample, the program also estimates the probability of making a type II error if the null hypothesis is not rejected, or estimates the power if the if the alternative hypothesis is accepted. The “compbdt” program provides all the necessary results so that the researcher can easily interpret them. The estimation of the probability of making a type II error allows the researcher to decide about the reliability of the null hypothesis when this hypothesis is not rejected. The “compbdt” program has been applied to a real example on the diagnosis of coronary artery disease.ConclusionsThe “compbdt” program is one which is easy to use and allows the researcher to compare the most important parameters of two binary tests subject to a paired design. The “compbdt” program is available as supplementary material.
Hemorrhagic cholecystitis with rare imaging presentation: a case report and a lesson learned from neglected medication history of NSAIDs
Authors: Zhang Xin , Zhang Chunjun , Huang Haifeng , Wang Junsen , Zhang Yun , Hu Qida 
Published: June 2020

Abstract
Background
Gallbladder carcinogenesis, frequently occurredin chronic cholecystitis patients, requires radical resection. We herein describe a hemorrhagic cholecystitis case that failed to be differentiated from gallbladder cancer preoperatively owing to the neglected medication history of long term oral nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSIADs) intake.

Case presentation
A 57-year-old Chinese female was admitted for right upper quadrant pain with the initial diagnosis of cholecystitis. Radiological studies were unable to exclude the differential diagnosis of suspected gallbladder cancer. During the scheduled radical resection of the suspected lesions, the gross dissection showed an interesting presentation of hemorrhagic cholecystitis, without any pathological evidence of malignancies. Additional postoperative investigation revealed a neglected medication history of long-term NSAIDs use.

Conclusions
This case suggests the importance of preoperative review of medication history and patient education on prescription drug abuse.
Relationship between retinal blood flow and cytokines in central retinal vein occlusion
Authors: Noma Hidetaka , Yasuda Kanako , Mimura Tatsuya , Ofusa Akemi , Shimura Masahiko 
Published: June 2020

Abstract
Background
We evaluated the relationship between retinal blood flow and aqueous humor levels of cytokines/growth factors in patients with central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO).

Methods
In an observational study, 64 eyes of 64 CRVO patients were examined before anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) therapy. Blood flow was assessed in large vessels around and at the optic disk by determining the mean blur rate using laser speckle flowgraphy. Aqueous humor samples were obtained from the patients during anti-VEGF therapy and levels of the following molecules were measured by the suspension array method: soluble VEGF receptor (sVEGFR)-1, sVEGFR-2, VEGF, plancental growth factor (PlGF), platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-AA, soluble intercellular adhesion molecule (sICAM)-1, monocyte chemotactic protein (MCP)-1, interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8, IL-12(p70), and IL-13.

Results
The mean blur rate of the affected eye was significantly lower than that of the unaffected eye. The mean blur rate showed a significant negative correlation with the log-transformed aqueous humor levels of PlGF, sICAM-1, and IL-8, but not VEGF.

Conclusions
These findings suggest that retinal blood flow velocity might be more strongly correlated with inflammatory factors than VEGF in patients with nonischemic CRVO and macular edema.
Prevalence and predictors of taking tetanus toxoid vaccine in pregnancy: a cross-sectional study of 8,722 women in Sierra Leone
Authors: Yaya Sanni , Kota Komlan , Buh Amos , Bishwajit Ghose 
Published: June 2020

AbstractBackgroundImmunization of women during pregnancy to protect them and their infants against tetanus, pertussis and influenza is recommended by the World health Organization (WHO). However, there is limited information about the coverage rate and associated factors in low-income countries. The aim of this study was to measure the prevalence and predictors of taking tetanus toxoid among pregnant women in Sierra Leone.MethodsThis study was based on the fifth round of Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS 5) conducted in Sierra Leone in 2017. In total 8722 women aged between 15 and 49 years were included in this study. Outcome variable was taking of Tetanus Toxoid vaccination during the last pregnancy. Data were analyzed using cross-tabulation and logistic regression methods.ResultsThe overall prevalence of receiving TT immunization during women’s last pregnancy was 96.3% and that of taking at least two doses was 82.12%. In the regression analysis, women from Mende ethnicity had a 0.48 fold lower chance of being immunized (OR = 0.480, 95% CI = 0.385,0.59768) than those from the other ethnicity. In addition, women who attended at least four ANC visits had higher odds of receiving TT vaccine (OR = 1.919, 95% CI = 1.639,2.245) compared to those who attended less ANC visits. Stratified by areas, this association was observed in both urban (OR = 2.661, 95% CI = 1.924,3.679) and rural areas (OR = 1.716, 95% CI = 1.430,2.059). Attending at least four ANC visits showed a positive association with receiving at least two doses TT (OR = 2.434, 95% CI = 1.711,3.464) in both urban (OR = 2.815, 95% CI = 1.413,5.610) and rural areas (OR = 2.216, 95% CI = 1.463,3.356) as well.ConclusionHigher number of ANC visits, mass media exposure and higher wealth quintile increased the odds of receiving TT immunization. In addition, minimum two doses which were identified to reduce neonatal mortality. Therefore, immunization campaigns targeting improved utilization of healthcare and immunization services by women of childbearing age in Sierra Leone are strongly recommended.
Involvement of personal and professional relations among men bothered by lower urinary tract symptoms: a population-based cross-sectional study
Authors: Knudsen Marianne Møldrup , Balasubramaniam Kirubakaran , Haastrup Peter Fentz , Jarbøl Dorte Ejg , Rasmussen Sanne 
Published: June 2020

Abstract
Background
Lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) are common among men worldwide and despite frequently of benign origin, the symptoms often influence quality of life. Most men experiencing LUTS manage their symptoms in private settings without consulting their general practitioner (GP). Therefore, the purpose of this study was to identify who in the personal and professional relations Danish men discussed their bothersome LUTS with, to analyse factors associated with discussing LUTS with personal and professional relations, and to analyse how having a social network influenced healthcare seeking.

Methods
A nationwide population-based, cross-sectional survey representative of the Danish population. A total of 46,647 randomly selected men aged 20+ were invited to participate. Data were collected in 2012. The main outcome measures were odds ratios between involvement of personal and professional relations, GP contact and different characteristics (age, number of symptoms, available social network, and involvement of personal relations) among men experiencing bothersome LUTS. We used multivariate logistic regression models.

Results
Overall, 22,297 men completed the questionnaire. Of those, 4885 (21.9%) had experienced at least one LUTS, 23.5% had not discussed their symptoms with either personal nor professional relations and 59.1% had not discussed their LUTS with any professional relation. The symptoms were most often discussed with personal relations, primarily the spouse/partner who was involved in more than half of the cases. Odds of consulting the GP, another doctor and other healthcare professionals were two to four-fold higher when the symptoms were discussed with a personal relation. Having an available social network was significantly associated with lower odds of consulting the GP regarding frequent urination.

Conclusions
Despite the high prevalence of bothersome LUTS more than one-fifth of men did not discuss their symptoms with either personal nor professional relations, and more than half did not discuss the symptoms with any professional relations. Discussing the symptoms with personal relations was generally associated with higher odds of seeking professional help, and for frequent urination, having an available social network was associated with lower odds of consulting the GP. The results may be useful for detecting and treating men bothered by LUTS.
Control of antimicrobial resistance in Iran: the role of international factors
Authors: Mehtarpour Mojtaba , Takian Amirhossein , Eshrati Babak , Jaafaripooyan Ebrahim 
Published: June 2020

Abstract
Background
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is currently causing various challenges for all countries around the world. Accordingly, the WHO is placing a great emphasis on the global partnership and allinaces to drive countries towards developing policy guidances and a strategic framework for AMR contatiment. This study thus seeks to elaborate on the international factors underlying AMR management in Iran.

Methods
Semi-structured interviews were conducted with managers from the Ministry of health (n = 14), Iran veterinary organization (n = 4), the national professional associations (n = 3) and researchers (n = 3), between November 2018 and July 2019. Participants were selected using purposeful and snowball sampling. Interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim and were subsequently coded and analyzed thematically using MAXQDA software (V.18) and reported.

Results
International enabling and predisposing factors were identified in relation to the AMR control in the country. Enabling factors included knowledge transfer, facilitation in policy agenda setting, formulation and implementaion process, and AMR monitoring. Predisposing factors, alternatively, encompassed the migration of infectious patients, trafficking of medicine and livestock from neighboring countries, and the imposed sanctions.

Conclusion
Nowadays, AMR is taken cognizance of as a global challenge, thus to be addressed effectively, needs an international consensus more than ever. This harmony would not certainly underrate national efforts, but instead, is needed to reinforce such efforts through e.g. technical and financial assistance. It is suggested for policymakers to use all available political and legal means such as health diplomacy to establish humanitarian channels in order to enhance global convention and remove possible barriers as the sanctions and reduce their adverse consequences for AMR control.
High manganese exposure decreased the risk of high triglycerides in workers: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Luo Xiaoyu , Liu Zhenfang , Ge Xiaoting , Huang Sifang , Zhou Yanting , Li Defu , Li Longman , Chen Xiang , Huang Lulu , Hou Qingzhi , Cheng Hong , Xiao Lili , Liu Chaoqun , Zou Yunfeng , Yang Xiaobo 
Published: June 2020

Abstract
Background
Manganese (Mn) participates in lipid metabolism. However, the associations between Mn exposure and dyslipidaemia is unclear.

Methods
This was a cross-sectional study. Data were collected from the 2017 the Mn-exposed workers healthy cohort (MEWHC). Finally, 803 occupationally Mn-exposed workers included in the study. The workers were divided into two groups. The grouping of this study was based on Mn-Time Weighted Averages (Mn-TWA). The high-exposure group included participants with Mn-TWA greater than 0.15 mg/m3. The low-exposure group included participants with Mn-TWA less than or equal to 0.15 mg/m3. Mn-TWA levels and dyslipidaemia were assessed.

Results
After adjustment for seniority, sex, cigarette consumption, alcohol consumption, high-fat diet frequency, medicine intake in the past two weeks, egg intake frequency, drinking tea, WHR, and hypertension, Mn-TWA levels was negatively correlated with high triglycerides (TG) risk in workers overall (OR = 0.51; 95% CI: 0.36, 0.73; p <  0.01). The results of males and females were consistent (OR = 0.53; 95% CI: 0.34, 0.81; p <  0.01) and (OR = 0.47; 95% CI: 0.24, 0.94; p <  0.01), respectively. By performing interactions analyses of workers overall, we observed no significant interactions among confounders. Mn-TWA levels and pack-years on high TG risk (relative excess risk for the interactions (RERI = 2.29, 95% CI: − 2.07, 6.66), (RERI) = 2.98, 95% CI: − 2.30, 8.26). Similarly, smoking status, drinking status, high-fat diet frequency, and Waist-to-Hip Ratio (WHR) showed non-significant interactions with Mn-TWA levels on high TG risk.

Conclusions
This research indicates that high Mn exposure was negatively related to high TG risk in workers.
Management of initial colonisations with Burkholderia species in France, with retrospective analysis in five cystic fibrosis Centres: a pilot study
Authors: Gruzelle Vianney , Guet-Revillet Hélène , Segonds Christine , Bui Stéphanie , Macey Julie , Chiron Raphaël , Michelet Marine , Murris-Espin Marlène , Mittaine Marie 
Published: June 2020

Abstract
Background
Whereas Burkholderia infections are recognized to impair prognosis in cystic fibrosis (CF) patients, there is no recommendation to date for early eradication therapy. The aim of our study was to analyse the current management of initial colonisations with Burkholderia cepacia complex (BCC) or B. gladioli in French CF Centres and its impact on bacterial clearance and clinical outcome.

Methods
We performed a retrospective review of the primary colonisations (PC), defined as newly positive sputum cultures, observed between 2010 and 2018 in five CF Centres. Treatment regimens, microbiological and clinical data were collected.

Results
Seventeen patients (14 with BCC, and 3 with B. gladioli) were included. Eradication therapy, using heterogeneous combinations of intravenous, oral or nebulised antibiotics, was attempted in 11 patients. Six out of the 11 treated patients, and 4 out of the 6 untreated patients cleared the bacterium. Though not statistically significant, higher forced expiratory volume in 1 second and forced vital capacity at PC and consistency of treatment with in vitro antibiotic susceptibility tended to be associated with eradication. The management of PC was shown to be heterogeneous, thus impairing the statistical power of our study. Large prospective studies are needed to define whom to treat, when, and how.

Conclusions
Pending these studies, we propose, due to possible spontaneous clearance, to check the presence of Burkholderia 1 month after PC before starting antibiotics, at least in the milder cases, and to evaluate a combination of intravenous beta-lactam + oral or intravenous fluoroquinolone + inhaled aminoglycoside.