bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Predictors and outcomes of postoperative tracheostomy in patients undergoing acute type A aortic dissection surgery
Authors: Wang Dashuai , Wang Su , Song Yu , Wang Hongfei , Zhang Anchen , Wu Long , Huang Xiaofan , Ye Ping , Du Xinling 
Published: March 2022

Abstract
Background
Despite surgical advances, acute type A aortic dissection remains a life-threatening disease with high mortality and morbidity. Tracheostomy is usually used for patients who need prolonged mechanical ventilation in the intensive care unit (ICU). However, data on the risk factors for requiring tracheostomy and the impact of tracheostomy on outcomes in patients after Stanford type A acute aortic dissection surgery (AADS) are limited.

Methods
A retrospective single-institutional study including consecutive patients who underwent AADS between January 2016 and December 2019 was conducted. Patients who died intraoperatively were excluded. Univariate analysis and multivariate logistic regression analysis were used to identify independent risk factors for postoperative tracheostomy (POT). A nomogram to predict the probability of POT was constructed based on independent predictors and their beta-coefficients. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) was performed to assess the discrimination of the model. Calibration plots and the Hosmer–Lemeshow test were used to evaluate calibration. Clinical usefulness of the nomogram was assessed by decision curve analysis. Propensity score matching analysis was used to analyze the correlation between requiring tracheostomy and clinical prognosis.

Results
There were 492 patients included in this study for analysis, including 55 patients (11.2%) requiring tracheostomy after AADS. Compared with patients without POT, patients with POT experienced longer ICU and hospital stay and higher mortality. Age, cerebrovascular disease history, preoperative white blood cell (WBC) count and renal insufficiency, intraoperative amount of red blood cell (RBC) transfusion and platelet transfusion were identified as independent risk factors for POT. Our constructed nomogram had good discrimination with an AUC = 0.793 (0.729–0.856). Good calibration and clinical utility were observed through the calibration and decision curves, respectively. For better clinical application, we defined four intervals that stratified patients from very low to high risk for occurrence of POT.

Conclusions
Our study identified preoperative and intraoperative risk factors for POT and found that requiring tracheostomy was related to the poor outcomes in patients undergoing AADS. The established prediction model was validated with well predictive performance and clinical utility, and it may be useful for individual risk assessment and early clinical decision-making to reduce the incidence of tracheostomy.
Early changes in laboratory tests predict liver function damage in patients with moderate coronavirus disease 2019: a retrospective multicenter study
Authors: Wang Yiting , Gao Dandan , Li Xuewen , Xu Panyang , Zhou Qi , Yin Junguo , Xu Jiancheng 
Published: March 2022

AbstractBackgroundMost patients with coronavirus disease 2019 demonstrate liver function damage. In this study, the laboratory test data of patients with moderate coronavirus disease 2019 were used to establish and evaluate an early prediction model to assess the risk of liver function damage.MethodsClinical data and the first laboratory examination results of 101 patients with moderate coronavirus disease 2019 were collected from four hospitals’ electronic medical record systems in Jilin Province, China. Data were randomly divided into training and validation sets. A logistic regression analysis was used to determine the independent factors related to liver function damage in patients in the training set to establish a prediction model. Model discrimination, calibration, and clinical usefulness were evaluated in the training and validation sets.ResultsThe logistic regression analysis showed that plateletcrit, retinol-binding protein, and carbon dioxide combining power could predict liver function damage (P < 0.05 for all). The receiver operating characteristic curve showed high model discrimination (training set area under the curve: 0.899, validation set area under the curve: 0.800;P < 0.05). The calibration curve showed a good fit (training set:P = 0.59, validation set:P = 0.19;P > 0.05). A decision curve analysis confirmed the clinical usefulness of this model.ConclusionsIn this study, the combined model assesses liver function damage in patients with moderate coronavirus disease 2019 performed well. Thus, it may be helpful as a reference for clinical differentiation of liver function damage.Trial registrationretrospectively registered.
Intrasellar pressure in patients with pituitary adenoma – relation to tumour size and growth pattern
Authors: Simander Gabriel , Eriksson Per Olof , Lindvall Peter , Koskinen Lars-Owe D. 
Published: March 2022

Abstract
Background
Only a few earlier publications on intrasellar pressure (ISP) have not been able to fully clarify any association between ISP and pituitary adenoma size and growth pattern. The aim of the study was to determine if intrasellar pressure (ISP) is elevated in patients with pituitary adenoma, and if the pressure is associated with tumour size and growth pattern.

Methods
The study included 100 patients operated for suspected pituitary adenoma, who have had their ISP measured intraoperatively. All adenomas were classified on the basis of Knosp and SIPAP, from which further classification of invasiveness was performed. MRT examinations were used to calculate the tumour volume and diameter in three axes.

Results
After exclusions, 93 cases were analysed. The mean ISP was 23.0 ± 8.4 mmHg. There were positive correlations between ISP and tumour volume and tumour diameters along all three axes. Coronal tumour diameter showed the strongest correlation with ISP elevation in a multivariate effect test. Adenomas classified as parasellar invasive (Knosp grade 3–4) showed higher mean ISP than adenomas considered as non-invasive (Knosp 0–2).

Conclusions
ISP is affected by tumour anatomy and correlates positively with tumour volume. Tumour width, i.e. diameter in the coronal plane, appears to be the measure that most strongly affects the ISP. This is confirmed by the association between ISP elevation and parasellar growth.
Clinical consequences of gestational diabetes mellitus and maternal obesity as defined by asian BMI thresholds in Viet Nam: a prospective, hospital-based, cohort study
Authors: Yue Serena , Thi Vu Thai Kim , Dung Le Phuong , Nhu Bui Thi Hong , Kestelyn Evelyne , Thuan Dang Trong , Thanh Le Quang , Hirst Jane E 
Published: March 2022

Abstract
Background
Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) is common in South East Asia, occurring at relatively lean Body Mass Index (BMI). Outside pregnancy, cardiometabolic risks increase at lower BMI in Asian populations, justifying Asian-specific thresholds for overweight and obesity. We aimed to explore the effects of GDM and obesity on perinatal outcomes using a WHO expert consultation-recommended Asian-specific definition of obesity.

Methods
This is a secondary analysis of a prospective, hospital-based, cohort study in Ho Chi Minh City. Participants were recruited from antenatal clinics between 19+ 0-22+ 6 weeks gestation and followed until delivery. GDM screening occurred between 24 and 28 weeks using WHO criteria. Obesity was defined as BMI ≥ 27.5 kg/m2, based on weight and height at recruitment. We assessed associations between GDM (singly, and in combination with obesity) and perinatal outcomes. Participants were categorised into four groups: no GDM/non-obese (reference group), GDM/non-obese, no GDM/obese and GDM/obese. Outcomes included primary caesarean section, hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP), large-for-gestational-age (LGA), birth weight, preterm birth, and composite adverse neonatal outcome. Logistic and linear regressions were performed with adjustment for differences in baseline characteristics.

Results
Among 4,970 participants, 908 (18%) developed GDM. Compared to women without GDM, GDM increased risks for preterm birth (OR: 1.40, 95% CI: 1.09–1.78), higher birthweight (birthweight z-score 0.16 versus 0.09, p = 0.027), and LGA (OR 1.14, 0.89–1.46). GDM without obesity was associated with an increased risk of preterm birth (OR 1.35, 1.04–1.74). Obese women without GDM were more likely to deliver by caesarean section and have an LGA baby (1.80, 1.33–2.44 and 2.75, 1.88–4.03). The highest risks were observed amongst women with both GDM and obesity: caesarean Sect. (2.43, 1.49–3.96), LGA (3.36, 1.94–5.80) and preterm birth (2.42, 1.32–4.44).

Conclusions
GDM was associated with an increased risk of preterm birth and larger newborn size. Using an Asian-specific definition of obesity, we demonstrate obese women with GDM are at the highest risk of adverse outcomes. Using a BMI threshold in pregnancy of 27.5 kg/m2 (between 19 and 22 weeks gestation) for Asian women can identify women who will benefit from intensified diabetes, nutritional, and obstetric care. This has relevance for obstetric service delivery within Asia, and other health systems providing pregnancy care for Asian expatriate women.
Social responsibility perspective in public response to the COVID-19 pandemic: a grounded theory approach
Authors: Low Lee Lan , Tong Seng Fah , Ang Ju Ying , Abdullah Zalilah , Hamid Maimunah A , Risman Mikha Saragi , Wong Yun Teng , Jamalul-lail Nurul Iman , Chelladorai Kalvina , Tan Yui Ping , Tay Yea Lu , Nordin Awatef Amer , HSS Amar-Singh 
Published: March 2022

AbstractBackgroundCombating viral outbreaks extends beyond biomedical and clinical approaches; thus, public health prevention measures are equally important. Public engagement in preventive efforts can be viewed as the social responsibility of individuals in controlling an infectious disease and are subjected to change due to human behaviour. Understanding individuals’ perception of social responsibility is crucial and is not yet explored extensively in the academic literature. We adopted the grounded theory method to develop an explanatory substantive theory to illustrate the process of how individual responded to the outbreak from a social responsibility perspective.MethodsIn-depth interviews were conducted among 23 Malaysians either through telephone or face-to-face depending on the participant’s preference. Both purposive and theoretical sampling were used. Participants were invited to share their understanding, perceptions and activities during the COVID-19 pandemic. They were further probed about their perceptions on complying with the public health interventions imposed by the authorities. The interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Data was analysed via open coding, focus coding and theoretical coding, facilitated by memoing, sketching and modelling.ResultsStudy findings showed that, social responsibility is perceived within its role, the perceived societal role responsibility. In a particular context, an individual assumed only one of the many expected social roles with their perceived circle of responsibility. Individuals negotiated their actions from this perspective, after considering the perceived risk during the outbreak. The four types of behaviour depicted in the matrix diagram facilitate the understanding of the abstract concept of negotiation in the human decision-making process, and provide the spectrum of different behaviour in relation to public response to the COVID-19 pandemic.ConclusionsOur study adopted the grounded theory approach to develop a theoretical model that illustrates how individual response to COVID-19 preventive measures is determined by the negotiation between perceived societal role responsibility and perceived infection risk. This substantive theoretical model is abstract, thus has relevance for adoption within similar context of an outbreak.
Pre and postoperative lactate levels and lactate clearance in predicting in-hospital mortality after surgery for gastrointestinal perforation
Authors: Kang Min Kyu , Oh Seung-Young , Lee Hannah , Ryu Ho Geol 
Published: March 2022

Abstract
Background
This study aimed to compare the prognostic significance of pre and postoperative lactate levels and postoperative lactate clearance in the prediction of in-hospital mortality after surgery for gastrointestinal (GI) perforation.

Methods
Among patients who underwent surgery for GI perforation between 2013 and 2017, only patients whose lactate were measured before and after surgery were included and divided into an in-hospital mortality group and a survival group. Data on demographics, comorbidities, pre and postoperative laboratory test results, and operative findings were collected. Risk factors for in-hospital mortality were identified, and receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was performed for pre and postoperative lactate levels and postoperative lactate clearance.

Results
Of 104 included patients, 17 patients (16.3%) died before discharge. The in-hospital mortality group demonstrated higher preoperative lactate (6.3 ± 5.1 vs. 3.5 ± 3.2, P = 0.013), SOFA score (4.5 ± 1.7 vs. 3.4 ± 2.3, P = 0.004), proportions of patients with lymphoma (23.5% vs. 2.3%, P = 0.006), and rates of contaminated ascites (94.1% vs. 68.2%, P = 0.036) and lower preoperative hemoglobin (10.4 ± 1.6 vs. 11.8 ± 2.4, P = 0.018) compare to the survival group. Multivariate analysis revealed that postoperative lactate (HR 1.259, 95% CI 1.084–1.463, P = 0.003) and preoperative hemoglobin (HR 0.707, 95% CI 0.520–0.959, P = 0.026) affected in-hospital mortality. In the ROC curve analysis, the largest area under the curve (AUC) was shown in the postoperative lactate level (AUC = 0.771, 95% CI 0.678–0.848).

Conclusion
Of perioperative lactate levels in patients underwent surgery for GI perforation, postoperative lactate was the strongest predictor for in-hospital mortality.
Peers empowering peers-feasibility of a peer educator training program to prevent diabetes
Authors: Vivian Eva , Flanagan Constance 
Published: March 2022

Abstract
Background
This study assessed the feasibility and acceptability of the Healthy Outcomes through Peer Educators (HOPE) training program designed to train African American (AA) grandmothers to serve as peer educators for other AA grandmothers who are at risk for diabetes. The newly trained peer educators will provide the needed encouragement and positive reinforcement essential for successful sustainable health behaviors to grandmothers enrolled in a subsequent Diabetes Prevention Program.

Methods
Thirty AA women between the ages of 49–72 were enrolled in the pre-post single group study. The participants were required to attend a 2-h Diabetes Prevention Program session every week for 16 weeks. The sessions covered the role of the peer educator and encouraged participants to increase their physical activity and consume more servings of fruits and vegetables daily. We noted the number of participants who successfully completed the training and solicited their perspective regarding the strengths of the program and suggestions to improve the program. The Wilcoxon Signed Ranks Test was performed to evaluate changes in body weight, self-reported physical activity, and fruit and vegetable intake from baseline to week 16.

Results
Ninety three percent (n = 28) of enrollees completed the training program. All (n = 28) the peer educator trainees indicated that they would recommend the program to a friend and 93% (n = 26) reported that the program met their needs. The participants (n = 28) felt that the training prepared them to offer support to other grandmothers in their community. A Wilcoxon Signed Ranks Test revealed that participants body weights were significantly lower after completion of the 16 week training program (median = 156.5 lbs., n = 28) compared to baseline (median = 163.0, n = 28), Z = − 4.43, p < 0.05. Fruit and vegetable intake increased significantly (median = 5, n = 28) at week 16 compared to week one, (median = 2, n = 28) Z = 4.46, p < 0.05. Participants were more physically active at week 16 (median = 150 min per week, n = 28) compared to week 1, (median = 30 min per week, n = 28) Z = 4.62, p < 0.05.

Conclusions
The peer educator training component of HOPE was found to be feasible and acceptable as evidenced by our successful recruitment and retention of participants. Participation in the peer educator training program also resulted in improvement in health behaviors.
Social network-based ethical analysis of COVID-19 vaccine supply policy in three Central Asian countries
Authors: Aripov Timur , Wikler Daniel , Asadov Damin , Tulekov Zhangir , Murzabekova Totugul , Munir Kerim M. 
Published: March 2022

Abstract
Background
In the pandemic time, many low- and middle-income countries are experiencing restricted access to COVID-19 vaccines. Access to imported vaccines or ways to produce them locally became the principal source of hope for these countries. But developing a strategy for success in obtaining and allocating vaccines was not easy task. The governments in those countries have faced the difficult decision whether to accept or reject offers of vaccine diplomacy, weighing the price and availability of COVID-19 vaccines against the concerns over their efficacy and safety. We aimed to analyze public opinion regarding the governmental strategies to obtain COVID-19 vaccines in three Central Asian countries, focusing particularly on possible ethical issues.

Methods
We searched for opinions expressed either in Russian or in the respective national languages. We provided data on the debate within three countries, drawn from social media postings and other sources. The opinion data was not restricted by source and time. This allowed collecting a wide range of possible opinions that could be expressed regarding COVID-19 vaccine supply and human participation in the vaccine trial. We recognized ethical issues and possible questions concerning different ethical frameworks. We also considered scientific data and other information, in the process of reasoning.

Results
As a result, public views on their respective government policies on COVID-19 vaccine supply ranged from strongly negative to slightly positive. We extracted the most important issues from public debates, for our analysis. The first issue involved trade-offs between quantity, speed, price, freedom, efficacy, and safety in the vaccines. The second set of issues arose in connection with the request to site a randomized trial in one of the countries (Uzbekistan). After considering additional evidence, we weighed individual and public risks against the benefits to make specific judgements concerning every issue.

Conclusions
We believe that our analysis would be a helpful example of solving ethical issues that can arise concerning COVID-19 vaccine supply around the world. The public view can be highly critical, helping to spot such issues. An ignoring this view can lead to major problems, which in turn, can become a serious obstacle for the vaccine coverage and epidemics’ control in the countries and regions.
Knowledge, causes, and experience of inter-professional conflict and rivalry among healthcare professionals in Nigeria
Authors: Mohammed Elijah N. A. 
Published: March 2022

Abstract
Introduction
The healthcare workforce is regarded as an essential component of any functioning health system, and a lack of optimal collaboration among this group can result to poor quality healthcare services to the population. In Nigerian setting, the health sector is faced with challenges of inter-professional conflict and rivalry. This study aimed at understanding knowledge, causes, and experience of inter-professional conflict and rivalry among healthcare professionals in Nigeria.

Methods
A cross sectional study was undertaken to administer questionnaires to healthcare personnel in various healthcare facilities in Nigeria. Data were analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences.

Results
A total of 2207 valid responses were received, and male participants were in majority as indicated by 63.7% of the sample. Collectively, doctors and pharmacists represented two-thirds of the sample, and majority of the participants were in the public sector (82.5%). Disparity in salary structure was the highest source of conflict. Whilst almost all the participants indicated that inter-professional rivalry and conflict are prevalent in health sector, about three-quarters of them (73.2%) disagreed that this practice is productive. A considerable number of the respondents had experienced inter-professional conflict and rivalry.

Conclusion
Evidence from this study can help policymakers in developing framework that can be utilised in addressing rivalry and conflict in the healthcare sector.
Leveraging Mann–Whitney U test on large-scale genetic variation data for analysing malaria genetic markers
Authors: Tai Kah Yee , Dhaliwal Jasbir , Balasubramaniam Vinod 
Published: March 2022

Abstract
Background
The malaria risk analysis of multiple populations is crucial and of great importance whilst compressing limitations. However, the exponential growth in diversity and accumulation of genetic variation data obtained from malaria-infected patients through Genome-Wide Association Studies opens up unprecedented opportunities to explore the significant differences between genetic markers (risk factors), particularly in the resistance or susceptibility of populations to malaria risk. Thus, this study proposes using statistical tests to analyse large-scale genetic variation data, comprising 20,854 samples from 11 populations within three continents: Africa, Oceania, and Asia.

Methods
Even though statistical tests have been utilized to conduct case–control studies since the 1950s to link risk factors to a particular disease, several challenges faced, including the choice of data (ordinal vs. non-ordinal) and test (parametric vs. non-parametric). This study overcomes these challenges by adopting the Mann–Whitney U test to analyse large-scale genetic variation data; to explore the statistical significance of markers between populations; and to further identify the highly differentiated markers.

Results
The findings of this study revealed a significant difference in the genetic markers between populations (p < 0.01) in all the case groups and most control groups. However, for the highly differentiated genetic markers, a significant difference (p < 0.01) was present for most genetic markers with varying p-values between the populations in the case and control groups. Moreover, several genetic markers were observed to have very significant differences (p < 0.001) across all populations, while others exist between certain specific populations. Also, several genetic markers have no significant differences between populations.

Conclusions
These findings further support that the genetic markers contribute differently between populations towards malaria resistance or susceptibility, thus showing differences in the likelihood of malaria infection. In addition, this study demonstrated the robustness of the Mann–Whitney U test in analysing genetic markers in large-scale genetic variation data, thereby indicating an alternative method to explore genetic markers in other complex diseases. The findings hold great promise for genetic markers analysis, and the pipeline emphasized in this study can fully be reproduced to analyse new data.