bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Inter-rater reliability of the infectious disease modeling reproducibility checklist (IDMRC) as applied to COVID-19 computational modeling research
Authors: Pokutnaya Darya , Van Panhuis Willem G , Childers Bruce , Hawkins Marquis S , Arcury-Quandt Alice E , Matlack Meghan , Carpio Kharlya , Hochheiser Harry 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Background
Infectious disease computational modeling studies have been widely published during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, yet they have limited reproducibility. Developed through an iterative testing process with multiple reviewers, the Infectious Disease Modeling Reproducibility Checklist (IDMRC) enumerates the minimal elements necessary to support reproducible infectious disease computational modeling publications. The primary objective of this study was to assess the reliability of the IDMRC and to identify which reproducibility elements were unreported in a sample of COVID-19 computational modeling publications.

Methods
Four reviewers used the IDMRC to assess 46 preprint and peer reviewed COVID-19 modeling studies published between March 13th, 2020, and July 30th, 2020. The inter-rater reliability was evaluated by mean percent agreement and Fleiss’ kappa coefficients (κ). Papers were ranked based on the average number of reported reproducibility elements, and average proportion of papers that reported each checklist item were tabulated.

Results
Questions related to the computational environment (mean κ = 0.90, range = 0.90–0.90), analytical software (mean κ = 0.74, range = 0.68–0.82), model description (mean κ = 0.71, range = 0.58–0.84), model implementation (mean κ = 0.68, range = 0.39–0.86), and experimental protocol (mean κ = 0.63, range = 0.58–0.69) had moderate or greater (κ > 0.41) inter-rater reliability. Questions related to data had the lowest values (mean κ = 0.37, range = 0.23–0.59). Reviewers ranked similar papers in the upper and lower quartiles based on the proportion of reproducibility elements each paper reported. While over 70% of the publications provided data used in their models, less than 30% provided the model implementation. Conclusions: The IDMRC is the first comprehensive, quality-assessed tool for guiding researchers in reporting reproducible infectious disease computational modeling studies. The inter-rater reliability assessment found that most scores were characterized by moderate or greater agreement. These results suggest that the IDMRC might be used to provide reliable assessments of the potential for reproducibility of published infectious disease modeling publications. Results of this evaluation identified opportunities for improvement to the model implementation and data questions that can further improve the reliability of the checklist.
Factors associated with quality of life in patients with kidney failure managed conservatively and with dialysis: a cross-sectional study
Authors: So Sarah , Brown Mark A , Li Kelly 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Background
Later stage chronic kidney disease (CKD) is associated with poorer self-perceived health-related quality of life (HRQOL), a major consideration for many patients. Psychological factors such as depression and anxiety have been linked with poorer HRQOL. We aimed to determine if anxiety or depressive symptoms are significantly associated with self-perceived health-related quality of life, in patients with CKD Stage 5. The secondary aim was to determine which patient-associated factors are associated with HRQOL in patients with CKD Stage 5.

Methods
This retrospective cross-sectional study included patients that attended the St George Hospital Kidney Supportive Care (KSC) clinic between 1 and 2015 and 30 June 2022 with CKD Stage 5 (either conservatively-managed or receiving dialysis). Patients completed surveys of their functional ‘domains’ and quality of life (EQ-5D-5L) and symptom surveys (IPOS-Renal) at their first visit. We performed multivariable linear regression analysis with the outcome of interest being HRQOL, measured using the EQ-VAS, a continuous 100-point scale, for patients undergoing conservative management or dialysis. Pre-specified variables included age, sex, eGFR (for those conservatively-managed), “feeling depressed” (IPOS-Renal), “feeling anxious” (IPOS-Renal) and “anxiety/depression” (EQ-5D-5L).

Results
We included 339 patients. 216 patients received conservative kidney management (CKM) and 123 patients received dialysis. Patients receiving CKM were significantly older than those on dialysis, (median age 83 years vs. 73 years, p < 0.001). For conservatively-managed patients, variables independently associated with poorer EQ-VAS were difficulty performing usual activities (EQ-5D-5L), drowsiness (IPOS-Renal) and shortness of breath (IPOS-Renal). For patients receiving dialysis, variables that were independently associated with poorer EQ-VAS were reduced ability to perform self-care (EQ-5D-5L) and lack of energy (IPOS-Renal). Anxiety and depressive symptoms were not significantly associated with poorer EQ-VAS for either group of patients.

Conclusions
Symptoms associated with reduced HRQOL include shortness of breath, drowsiness and impaired functional ability. Optimization of multidisciplinary teams focusing on these issues are likely to be of benefit.
Making the cut on caesarean section: a logistic regression analysis on factors favouring caesarean sections without medical indication in comparison to spontaneous vaginal birth
Authors: Bischof Anja Y. , Geissler Alexander 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Background
In the absence of medical necessity, opting for caesarean sections exposes mothers and neonates to increased risks of enduring long-term health problems and mortality. This ultimately results in greater economic burden when compared to the outcomes of spontaneous vaginal births. In Switzerland around 33% of all births are by caesarean section. However, the rate of caesarean sections without medical indication is still unknown. Therefore, we devise an identification strategy to differentiate caesarean sections without medical indication using routine data. In addition, we aim to categorize the influencing factors for women who undergo spontaneous vaginal births as opposed to those with caesarean sections without medical indication.

Method
We use Swiss Federal Statistics data including 98.3% of all women giving birth from 2014 to 2018. To determine non-medically indicated caesarean sections in our dataset, we base our identification strategy on diagnosis-related groups, diagnosis codes, and procedure classifications. Subsequently, we compare characteristics of women who give birth by non-medically CS and external factors such as the density of practicing midwives to women with spontaneous vaginal birth. Logistic regression analysis measures the effect of factors, such as age, insurance class, income, or density of practicing midwives on non-medically indicated caesarean sections.

Results
Around 8% of all Swiss caesarean sections have no medical indication. The regression analysis shows that higher age, supplemental insurance, higher income, and living in urban areas are associated with non-medically indicated caesarean sections, whereas a higher density of midwives decreases the likelihood of caesarean sections without medical indication.

Conclusions
By identifying non-medically indicated caesarean sections using routine data, it becomes feasible to gain insights into the characteristics of impacted mothers as well as the external factors involved. Illustrating these results, our recommendation is to revise the incentive policies directed towards healthcare professionals. Among others, future research may investigate the potential of midwife-assisted pregnancy programs on strengthening spontaneous vaginal births in absence of medical complications.
Hormetic and synergistic effects of cancer treatments revealed by modelling combinations of radio - or chemotherapy with immunotherapy
Authors: Tang Sanyi , Li Shuo , Tang Biao , Wang Xia , Xiao Yanni , Cheke Robert A. 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Background
Radio/chemotherapy and immune systems provide examples of hormesis, as tumours can be stimulated (or reduced) at low radio/chemical or antibody doses but inhibited (or stimulated) by high doses.

Methods
Interactions between effector cells, tumour cells and cytokines with pulsed radio/chemo-immunotherapy were modelled using a pulse differential system.

Results
Our results show that radio/chemotherapy (dose) response curves (RCRC) and/or immune response curves (IRC) or a combination of both, undergo homeostatic changes or catastrophic shifts revealing hormesis in many parameter regions. Some mixed response curves had multiple humps, posing challenges for interpretation of clinical trials and experimental design, due to a fuzzy region between an hormetic zone and the toxic threshold. Mixed response curves from two parameter bifurcation analyses demonstrated that low-dose radio/chemotherapy and strong immunotherapy counteract side-effects of radio/chemotherapy on effector cells and cytokines and stimulate effects of immunotherapy on tumour growth. The implications for clinical applications were confirmed by good fits to our model of RCRC and IRC data.

Conclusions
The combination of low-dose radio/chemotherapy and high-dose immunotherapy is very effective for many solid tumours. The net benefit and synergistic effect of combined therapy is conducive to the treatment and inhibition of tumour cells.
Prevalence and predictors of perceived COVID-19 stigma within a population-based sample of adults with COVID-19
Authors: Ryu Soomin , Chaubal Samhita , Guro Paula , King Elizabeth J. , Orellana Robert , Fleischer Nancy L. , Hirschtick Jana L. 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Background
Growing evidence suggests that individuals with COVID-19 face stigmatization, which is associated with poor health outcomes and behaviors. However, very few population-based studies have examined risk factors for experiencing COVID-19 stigma. This study examined prevalence and predictors of perceived COVID-19 stigma using a population-based probability sample of adults with COVID-19.

Methods
We included adults with polymerase chain reaction-confirmed SARS-CoV-2 in Michigan between January 1, 2020 and July 31, 2021. Perceived COVID-19 stigma was considered present if a respondent answered affirmatively to any of the following items due to people thinking they might have COVID-19: “you were treated badly,” “people acted as if they were scared of you,” and “you were threatened or harassed.” We conducted modified Poisson regression with robust standard errors to estimate associations between perceived COVID-19 stigma and potential predictors, including sex, age, race and ethnicity, household income, education, employment, smoking status, body mass index, preexisting diagnosed physical or mental comorbidities, and COVID-19 illness severity.

Results
Perceived COVID-19 stigma was commonly reported among our respondents (38.8%, n = 2,759). Compared to those over 65 years, respondents who were 18 − 34 (adjusted prevalence ratio (aPR): 1.41, 95% confidence intervals (CI): 1.12 − 1.77) and 35 − 44 years old (aPR: 1.66, 95% CI: 1.31 − 2.09) reported higher perceived stigma. Female respondents had 1.23 times higher prevalence of perceived COVID-19 stigma (95% CI: 1.10 − 1.37) than male respondents and non-Hispanic Black respondents had 1.22 times higher prevalence of perceived COVID-19 stigma (95% CI: 1.04 − 1.44) than non-Hispanic White respondents. Moreover, respondents with pre-existing diagnosed psychological or psychiatric comorbidities were more likely to report perceived COVID-19 stigma (aPR: 1.29, 95% CI: 1.13 − 1.48) compared to those without diagnosed comorbidities. Respondents with very severe COVID-19 symptoms were also more likely to report perceived COVID-19 stigma (aPR: 1.47, 95% CI: 1.23 − 1.75) than those with asymptomatic or mild symptoms.

Conclusions
We found that populations who are marginalized in United States, such as females, non-Hispanic Black adults, or individuals with chronic conditions, are more likely to report perceived COVID-19 stigma. Continuing to monitor COVID-19 stigma, especially in vulnerable populations, may provide useful insights for anti-stigma campaigns and future pandemics.
The effects of tourniquet use on blood loss and perioperative complications in total knee arthroplasty
Authors: Tan Yang , Guo Shun , Wang Hua , Tie Kai , Qin Jun , Zhao Xinyu , Chen Liaobin 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Background
There has been ongoing debate about the use of tourniquets in total knee arthroplasty, and their application is widely studied. A comprehensive understanding of the advantages and disadvantages of tourniquet use during the procedure is crucial for optimizing surgical outcomes. This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of tourniquet application, with a particular focus on blood loss and perioperative complications, providing valuable insights for clinical practice.

Methods
Fifty patients who underwent total knee arthroplasty were randomized into tourniquet (n = 25) and nontourniquet (n = 25) groups. The same surgeon performed all surgical procedures. The follow-up time was 14 days after surgery. Primary outcomes were hemoglobin level changes, blood loss, operation time, and perioperative plasma D-dimer levels. Secondary outcomes were postoperative complications, including thrombotic and nonthrombotic events.

Results
No significant differences were found in drainage, calculated blood loss, total blood loss, postoperative hemoglobin levels, or blood transfusion between the two groups (P > 0.05). No differences in D-dimer levels were observed on postoperative Days 1, 3, and 14 between the two groups, except on postoperative Day 7, when the D-dimer level in the tourniquet group was lower than that in the nontourniquet group (P = 0.03). The incidence of local complications (thigh bruising, blisters, pain, fat liquefaction, and superficial infections) in the tourniquet group was significantly higher than that in the nontourniquet group (P = 0.03), but no significant differences were found in thromboembolic and nonthromboembolic events or overall complications (P > 0.05).

Conclusion
We conclude that tourniquet use does not reduce the length of surgery or blood loss but does increase local complications in total knee arthroplasty.
Assessment of mathematical model for elliptical excision: solving the doubt about vertex angle and predicting postoperative wound length
Authors: Zou Rifeng , Lin Feng , Hao Chunyu , Zhou Dapeng , Liang Jiulong , Wang Hongyi 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Background
Elliptical excision is the most commonly used method for small benign tumour excision and primary closure. However, elliptical excision remains the topic of debate. The aim of this study was to explore the relationship among postoperative incision, vertex angle, and the length and width of fusiform excision through a mathematical model.

Methods
We collected data from fusiform circle excisions performed at the author’s hospital (101 cases). The measured values were applied to the mathematical model formula for statistical analysis.

Results
The functional relationships among the length, width, arc, and angle of the fusiform circle were obtained. The mean apical tangent angle was 100.731°±15.782°, and the mean apical inner angle was 50.366°±7.891°. There was no significant difference between the preoperatively designed arc length preoperative and the postoperative incision length (P < 0.001). The apical vertex push-out distance equals half of the value of the fusiform length subtracted from arc.

Conclusions
The mathematical model can be used to design the incision for ellipse fusiform excision to predict the final wound length.
Perioperative care based on roy adaptation model in elderly patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia: impact on psychological well-being, pain, and quality of life
Authors: Peng Ya-Ni , Jin Lu , Peng E-Jun , Zhang Li 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Purpose
This study aimed to assess the impact of perioperative care based on the Roy Adaptation Model (RAM) on psychological well-being, postoperative pain, and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in elderly patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) undergoing transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP).

Methods
A total of 160 elderly patients diagnosed with BPH between June 2021 and June 2022 and scheduled for TURP were randomly assigned to either the routine care group (n = 80) or the RAM group (n = 80). The RAM group received standard care supplemented with interventions based on the RAM model. Negative emotions measured by the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), pain intensity by the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), and HRQoL by the 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) were measured at the preoperative visit (T0), at 30 days (T1), and at 3 months of (T2) follow‑up.

Results
Repeated measures ANOVA revealed significant differences in psychological well-being, postoperative pain intensity, and HRQoL within both the routine care and RAM groups across the three time points. Holm-Sidak’s multiple comparisons test confirmed significant differences between each time point for both groups. The RAM intervention led to significant reductions in anxiety and depression levels, alleviation of postoperative pain intensity, and improvements in various domains of HRQoL at T1 and T2 compared to routine care.

Conclusion
Incorporating the RAM model into perioperative care for elderly patients undergoing TURP for BPH has shown promising results in improving psychological well-being, reducing postoperative pain intensity, and enhancing HRQoL.
Balancing pandemic public health restrictions and family support at the end of life: palliative care and bereavement experiences of parents whose child died during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Rapoport Adam , Nicholas David B. , Zulla Rosslynn T. 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Background
Little is known about the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on families of children with chronic life-limiting conditions who died during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods
In this qualitative study, parents of a child (< 18 years) who died during the COVID-19 pandemic from an underlying chronic medical condition were interviewed to explore how the pandemic impacted end-of-life care and bereavement experiences. Parents of children followed by the pediatric palliative care service were recruited from a large children’s hospital in eastern Canada.

Results
Twenty bereaved parents, consisting of 12 mothers and 8 fathers, participated in individual interviews between January and December 2021. Findings identified impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on children’s end-of-life care, experiences in hospital and at home, and family bereavement processes and experiences. Most parents experienced substantial worry about their child’s physical status and the additional risk of COVID-19 given her/his vulnerability. Parents also struggled to navigate public health protocols as they attended to their child’s needs and their family’s desire for engagement and support. Key facilitators that helped families cope included a strong network of formal and informal supports.

Conclusion
Implications highlight the need to critically reflect on pandemic care in the context of co-occurring end-of-life processes. Findings amplify the need to balance necessary infection control practices with access to essential supports for families.
Clear cell carcinoma arising in an ovarian remnant 19 years after oophoerctomy: case report
Authors: Yao Ting-ting , Zhao Shao-jie , Zhang Bing 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Background
Ovarian remnant syndrome (ORS) is a rare complication that occurs after oophorectomy, characterized by residual ovarian tissue causing pelvic pain, masses, and various symptoms. The clinical manifestations of ORS are nonspecific, and its diagnosis relies on histological examination. Since ORS typically represents a benign ovarian lesion, there have been few reported cases of malignant transformation. In this report, we presented a unique case of ovarian clear cell carcinoma (OCCC) arising from an ovarian remnant following salpingo-oophorectomy.

Case presentation
Our patient was a 47-year-old female initially diagnosed with uterine myoma. She had previously undergone cesarean section and unilateral salpingo-oophorectomy. Transvaginal ultrasound and computed tomography (CT) scans revealed a soft tissue mass adjacent to the right lateral wall of the myometrium. The patient opted for transabdominal hysterectomy, left adnexal resection, laparoscopic omentectomy, appendectomy, and pelvic and abdominal lymphadenectomy. The final pathology results confirmed the diagnosis of OCCC, consistent with ORS. The patient subsequently received six cycles of intravenous chemotherapy using the carboplatin/paclitaxel (TC) regimen (paclitaxel liposomes 175 mg/m², carboplatin AUC 5). After 3 years of follow-up, the patient’s condition remained normal.

Conclusion
ORS can significantly impact patients’ quality of life and pose challenges for clinicians. Complete excision of ovarian tissue during the initial surgery is crucial in preventing ORS recurrence and potential malignant transformation of ovarian remnants.
Protective effects of GuanXinNing tablet (GXNT) on diabetic encephalopathy in zucker diabetic obesity (ZDF) rats
Authors: Li Yajing , Chen Jiaojiao , Tu Haiye , Ma Quanxin , Wang Mulan , Chen Jie , Chen Minli 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Background
Diabetic encephalopathy (DE) is a complication of diabetes that leads to cognitive and behavioral decline. Utilizing safe and effective complementary and alternative medications for its management is a wise choice. Previous studies have shown that GuanXinNing Tablet (GXNT), an oral preparation primarily derived from two Chinese herbs, Salvia miltiorrhiza Bge. and Ligusticum chuanxiong Hort., exerts a beneficial neuroprotective effect. In this study, we explored the protective effects of GXNT on DE in male Zucker diabetic fatty (ZDF) rats induced by a high-fat diet, aiming to ascertain its significance and potential mechanisms.

Methods
ZDF rats were induced to develop type 2 diabetes (T2DM) with DE by a high-fat diet and treated with GXNT for 8 weeks until they were 20 weeks old. Throughout the experiment, the animals’ vital parameters, such as body weight, were continuously monitored. Cognitive function was evaluated using the Y maze test. Biochemical kits were employed to analyze blood glucose, lipids, and vascular endothelial-related factors. Cerebrovascular lesions were assessed using magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) imaging. Brain lesions were evaluated using hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining and ultrastructure observation. IgG and albumin (ALB) leakage were detected using immunofluorescence.

Results
GXNT demonstrated an enhancement in the overall well-being of the animals. It notably improved cognitive and behavioral abilities, as demonstrated by extended retention time in the novel heterogeneous arm during the Y-maze test. GXNT effectively regulated glucose and lipid metabolism, reducing fasting and postprandial blood glucose, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), and total cholesterol (TC) levels. Additionally, it exhibited a protective effect on the vascular endothelium by reducing the serum TXB2/PGI2 ratio while elevating NO and PGI2 levels. Moreover, GXNT ameliorated stenosis and occlusion in cerebral vessel branches, increased the number of microvessels and neurons around the hippocampus, and improved microvascular occlusion in the cerebral cortex, along with addressing perivascular cell abnormalities. Immunofluorescence staining showed a decrease in the fluorescence intensity of IgG and ALB in the cerebral cortex.

Conclusions
GXNT demonstrated a highly satisfactory protective effect on DE in ZDF rats. Its mechanism of action could be based on the regulation of glucolipid metabolism and its protective effect on the vascular endothelium.