bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Face Mask Utilization in the Era of COVID-19: Nigeria Experience
Authors: Edet Clement Kevin , Harry Agiriye M. , Wegbom Anthony Ike , Raimi Olatunde , Fagbamigbe Adeniyi Francis , Kiri Victor Alangibi 
Published: November 2020

Abstract
Background: The use of face masks has been accepted and recommended globally as a tool for COVID-19 protection. The government of Nigeria made wearing of face masks compulsory in public places. However, no evidence has shown user compliance or knowledge. This study investigated the knowledge and utilization of face masks among the Nigerian population. Methods: This was a web-based cross-sectional survey conducted from July 2 to August 28, 2020 using a convenience sampling technique. This was in adherence to the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) guideline of physical/social distancing. Data was collected using a pre-tested questionnaire. Descriptive statistics of frequency with percentage were used to present responses.Results: A total of 811 respondents participated in the survey with the mean age of 36.93±12.17 years, out of which 43.8% were male and 56.2% were female. Christians were 94.6%, those employed were 84.7%, 61.1% attained tertiary education and 50.8% belonged to a household size of 3-5 persons. Almost all the respondents 91.9% and 94% were aware that face masks can reduce the spread of COVID-19 and should be worn in the public respectively. 95.3% of the participants had used a face mask as a protection against COVID-19. Furthermore, 90.2% used face masks in the public, 53% used it when entering restricted places, 45.5% when with a suspected case and 30.7% used a mask due to fear of arrest/punishment. The majority of respondents used homemade masks (70%) and 71.2% reused their masks.Conclusion: This study demonstrated adequate knowledge and utilization of face masks among the population. The homemade mask was mostly used. However, there was a poor cleaning culture of the mask among the population. There should be intensive public awareness campaigns through social and mass media on how to clean reusable face masks.
Clinical and Epidemiological Data of COVID-19 from Regensburg, Germany – A Retrospective analysis of 1084 consecutive cases
Authors: Lampl Benedikt M J , Buczovsky Matthias , Martin Gabriele , Schmied Helen , Leitzmann Michael , Salzberger Bernd 
Published: November 2020

Abstract
Background: COVID-19 is a new syndrome caused by the recently emerged SARS-CoV-2. We collected clinical and epidemiologic data in an almost complete cohort of SARS-CoV-2 positive individuals from Regensburg, Germany, from March 2020 to May 2020.Methods: Retrospective cohort of consecutive COVID-19 cases recorded between March 7, 2020 and May 24, 2020 as part of an infection control investigation program, with prospective follow-up interviews gathering information on type and duration of symptoms and COVID-19 risk factors until June 26, 2020.Results: Of 1,089 total cases, 1,084 (99.6%) cases were included. The incidence during the time period was 315.4/100,000, lower than in the superordinate government district Oberpfalz (468,5/100,000) and the overall state of Bavaria (359.7/100,000). The case fatality rate was 2.1%. Among fatal cases, the mean age was 74.4 years and 87% presented with known risk factors, most commonly chronic heart disease, chronic lung disease, kidney disease, and diabetes mellitus. 897 cases (82,7%) showed at least one symptom, most frequently cough (45%) and fever (41%). Further, 18% of cases suffered from odour/taste disorder. 17% of total cases reported no symptoms. The median duration of general illness was 10 days. During follow-up, 8,9% of 419 interviewed cases reported at least one symptom lasting at least 6 weeks, and fatigue was the most frequent persistent symptom. Discussion: We report data on type and duration of symptoms, and clinical severity of nearly all (99,5%) patients with SARS-CoV-2 recorded from March 2020 to May 2020 in Regensburg. A broad range of symptoms and symptom duration was seen, some of them lasting several weeks. The case fatality rate was 2.1%. Asymptomatic cases may be underrepresented due to the nature of the study.
Effects of Dexmedetomidine on Intraoperative Hemodynamics, Recovery Profile and Postoperative Pain in Patients Undergoing Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Ye Qin , Wang Fangjun , Xu Hongchun , Wu Le , Gao Xiaopei 
Published: November 2020

Abstract
Background: To investigate the optimal dose of dexmedetomidine to maintain hemodynamic stability, prevent of cough and minimize postoperative pain for patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy.Methods: 120 patients were randomly divided into D1, D2, D3 and NS groups, and dexmedetomidine 0.4, 0.6, 0.8ug/kg and normal saline were administrated respectively. Patients' heart rate, systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure were measured at T1-T7. The incidence of cough was recorded. Other parameters were noted, the time of spontaneous respiratory recovery and extubation, visual analogue scale scores and dosage of tramadol.Results: The heart rate, systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure of D2 and D3 groups has smaller fluctuations at T2-3 and T7 compared with NS and D1 groups (P < 0.05). The incidence of cough was lower in D2 and D3 groups than NS group (P < 0.05). The visual analogue scale scores and tramadol dosage of D2 and D3 groups were lower than NS group (P < 0.05). The time of spontaneous respiratory recovery and extubation in D3 group was longer than that in D1 and D2 groups (P < 0.05). Conclusions: Intravenous infusion of 0.6ug/kg dexmedetomidine before induction can maintain hemodynamic stability, decrease cough during emergence, relieve postoperative pain of patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy.Trial registration: ChiCTR1900024801, registered at the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, principal investigator: Qin Ye, date of registration: July 28, 2019.
The compound role of a coordinator for home-dwelling persons with dementia and their informal caregivers: A qualitative study
Authors: Fæø Stein Erik , Tranvåg Oscar , Samdal Rune , Husebo Bettina S. , Bruvik Frøydis 
Published: November 2020

Abstract
Background: As the number of persons with dementia is increasing, there has been a call for establishing sustainable clinical pathways for coordinating care and support for this group. The LIVE@Home.Path trial is a multicomponent, multi-disciplinary intervention combining learning, innovation, volunteer support and empowerment. To implement the intervention, a municipal coordinator has a crucial role. Implementation research on multicomponent interventions is complex and we conducted a qualitative study, aiming to explore the coordinator role and how a coordinator may empower persons with dementia in decision-making processes. Methods: Qualitative program evaluation combined with a hermeneutic interpretive approach was chosen as methodological approach. Sixteen dyads, consisting of the person with dementia and their main informal caregiver received the intervention by two coordinators. Of these, six dyads, three informal caregivers alone and the two care coordinators along with their leader, in sum, eighteen persons, participated in in-depth or focus group interviews, sharing their experiences after six months intervention.Results: We found that the coordinators fulfilled three functions for the participating dyads: being a safety net, meaning that the dyads might have little needs at the moment, but found safety in a relation to someone who might help if the situation should change; being a pathfinder, meaning that they supported the dyads in finding their way through the complicated system of care and support services; being a source for emotional care and support, meaning that they listened, acknowledged and gave counsel in times of distress. The coordinators emphasized that a trusting leader and work environment was crucial for them to fulfill these functions. We also found that it was challenging for the coordinators to build a relation to the persons with dementia in order to pursue genuine empowerment in decision-making processes. Conclusion: We found the framework for follow-up to be a feasible starting point for establishing empowering coordination and a sustainable care pathway for persons with dementia and their informal caregivers. More meeting points between coordinator and person with dementia should be pursued in order to fulfill the persons’ fundamental rights to participate in decision-making processes.
Level and determinants of willingness to donate organs among the general public: A cross-sectional survey in China
Authors: Fan Xiaojing , Zheng Sirui , Li Meng , Wang Duolao , Li Enchang , Zhou Zhongliang , Zheng Weirong , Wang Lingling , Zhang Qing , Li Yingying , Lin Jianfeng 
Published: November 2020

Abstract
Background: This study aims to assess the level and determinants of the general public’s willingness to organ donation. Methods: We conducted a population-based cross-sectional study of 4261 participants in China. The primary outcome was the willingness to donate organs. Logistic regression modelling was used to determine the factors that affect willingness to donate organs. Results: Overall, the proportion of participants who showed a willingness to donate organs was 47.45% (95%CI: 0.46, 0.49) in this study. Logistic regression modelling showed participants from Western (OR=1.33, 95%CI=1.11-1.59) and Eastern China (OR=1.40, 95%CI=1.19-1.65) were more willing to donate organs compared with those from Central China. The odds of being willing to donate organs was higher in females than males (OR=1.35, 95%CI=1.17-1.55); and was higher in those participants with experience of organ donation (OR=1.58, 95%CI=1.13-2.21), experience of caring for organ transplant patients (OR=1.45, 95%CI=1.01-2.07), and those undertaking related voluntary activities (OR=1.67, 95%CI=1.45-1.94), than those without. Conclusion: The general public’s level of willingness to organ donation was not high in China. Geographical region, gender, experience of organ donation related activities, taking care of organ transplant patients and volunteering in related activities were independently associated with participants’ willingness to donate organs.
A comparative case study of prescribing and non-prescribing physiotherapists and podiatrists
Authors: Carey Nicola , Edwards Judith , Otter Simon , Gage Heather , Williams Peter , Courtenay Molly , Moore Ann , Stenner Karen 
Published: November 2020

Abstract
Background: Increasing numbers of nurses, pharmacists and allied health professionals across the world have prescribing rights for medicines: over 90,000 of the eligible United Kingdom workforce are qualified as non-doctor prescribers. In order to inform future developments, it is important to understand the benefits and impact of prescribing by allied health professionals including physiotherapists and podiatrists.Aim: to compare outcomes of physiotherapist and podiatrist Independent Prescriber (PP- IP) patients with those of physiotherapist and podiatrist non-prescribers (PP-NPs). Outcome measures included patient satisfaction, ease of access to services, quality of life and cost implications.Design: a mixed method comparative case study Methods: Using mixed methods of data collection, outcomes were compared between 7 sites where care was provided from a PP-IP (3 podiatrist and 4 physiotherapist IPs) and 7 sites from a PP-NP (3 podiatrist and 4 physiotherapist NPs). Patients were followed up for 2 months (2015-2016). Results: 489 patients were recruited: n=243 IP sites, and n=246 NP sites. Independent prescribing was found to be highly acceptable, and equivalent in terms of quality of life (p>0.05) and patient satisfaction (p≤0.05) compared to care provided by NPs. PP-IP care delivery was found to be more resource intensive than PP-NP, with longer consultation duration for IPs (around 6.5 mins), and a higher proportion of physiotherapy patients discussed with medical colleagues (around 9.5 minutes). Conclusion: This study provides new knowledge that PP-IPs provide high levels of care. PP-IP care delivery was found to be more resource intensive. Further research is required to explore cost effectiveness. A more focussed exploration within each profession using targeted outcome measures would enable a more robust comparison, inform future developments around the world and help ensure non-doctor prescribing is recognised as an effective way to alleviate shortfalls in the global workforce.
A designathon to co-create community-driven HIV self-testing services for Nigerian youth: findings from a participatory event
Authors: Tahlil Kadija M , Obiezu-Umeh Chisom , Gbajabiamila Titi , Nwaozuru Ucheoma , Oladele David , Musa Adesola Z , Idigbe Ifeoma , Okwuzu Jane , David Agatha N , Bamidele Tajudeen A , Airhihenbuwa Collins O , Rosenberg Nora E , Tang Weiming , Ong Jason J , Conserve Donaldson F , Iwelunmor Juliet , Ezechi Oliver , Tucker Joseph D 
Published: November 2020

Abstract
Background: Youth are at high risk for HIV, but are often left out of designing interventions, including those focused on adolescents. We organized a designathon for Nigerian youth to develop HIV self-testing (HIVST) strategies for potential implementation in their local communities. A designathon is a problem-focused event where participants work together over a short period to create and present solutions to a judging panel.Methods: We organized a 72-hour designathon for youth (14-24 years old) in Nigeria to design strategies to increase youth HIVST uptake. Proposals included details about HIVST kit service delivery, method of distribution, promotional strategy, and youth audience. Teams pitched their proposals to a diverse seven-member judging panel who scored proposals based on desirability, feasibility, potential impact and teamwork. We examined participants’ socio-demographic characteristics and summarized themes from their HIVST proposals.Results: Forty-two youth on 13 teams participated in the designathon. The median team size was 3 participants (IQR: 2–4). The median age was 22.5 years (IQR: 21–24), 66.7% were male, 47.4% completed tertiary education, and 50% lived in Lagos State. Themes from proposals included HIVST integration with other health services, digital marketing and distribution approaches, and engaging students. Judges identified seven teams with exceptional HIVST proposals and five teams were supported for further training.Conclusions: The designathon provided a structured method for incorporating youth ideas into HIV service delivery. This approach could differentiate HIV services to be more youth-friendly in Nigeria and other settings.
Employment Changes among Chinese Family Caregivers of Long-Term Cancer Survivors
Authors: Liu Siqi , Su Mingzhu , Yao Nengliang , Zhang Nan , Wang Jialin , Anderson Roger. T. , Sun Xiaojie 
Published: November 2020

Abstract
Background: Family caregivers (FCGs) play a key role in the plan of care provision for long-term cancer survivors, yet few studies have been conducted on the impact of long-term caregiving on FCGs and their employment patterns. This study aims to further our understanding of the effect that caregiving role has on FCGs by identifying what cancer-related characteristics influence reduction of employment hours among FCGs in the post-treatment phase in China. Methods: A total of 1155 cancer survivors participated in this study. Patients reported changes in the employment patterns of their FCGs. Descriptive analysis looked at demographic and cancer-related characteristics of cancer survivors and types of FCGs’ employment changes in both primary- and post-treatment phases. Chi-square test was used to statistically test the association between survivors’ characteristics and changes in FCGs’ hours of labor force work in post-treatment phase. Separate multivariable logistic regression models were used to examine the relationship between cancer-related characteristics of participants and employment reduction patterns among FCGs in post-treatment phase while controlling for demographic factors.Results: In the primary-treatment phase, 45.6% of all FCGs reduced their working hours and 17.4% stopped working altogether. In the post-treatment phase, 25.2% of FCGs worked fewer hours and 6.6% left the workforce completely. The results show that a higher probability of change in employment hours among FCGs is associated with the following patient characteristics: having comorbidities, receiving chemotherapy treatment, limited ability to perform physical tasks, limited ability to perform mental tasks, and diagnosis of stage II of cancer.Conclusions: Care for cancer patients in both primary- and post- treatment phases may have substantial impacts on hours of formal employment of Chinese FCGs. Interventions helping FCGs balance caregiving duties with labor force work are warranted.
Trait Emotional Intelligence and Its Correlates with the Level of Burnout Syndrome among First-year Resident Physicians in Oman
Authors: Huseini Salim Al , Alawi Mohammed Al , Al-Balushi Naser , Sinawi Hamed Al , Mirza Hassan , Balushi Rola Al , Balushi Manal Al , Jose Sachin , Al-Sibani Nasser , Al-Adawi Samir 
Published: November 2020

Abstract
Background:Existing literature is replete of the magnitude of occupational burnout among physicians and the role of emotional intelligence in moderating poor coping among physicians. However, these domains have not been explored in physicians in the Arabian Gulf countries. The study aims to quantify the rate of the presence of occupational burnout and trait emotional intelligence, the relationship between trait emotional intelligence and domains of occupational burnout, and demographic factors associated with occupational burnout.Methods:This was a cross-sectional, observational study conducted between June to August 2018 among first-year residents in Oman. The outcome measure included indices of composite and subscale (emotional exhaustion-EE, depersonalization -DP and personal accomplishment -PA) of Abbreviated Maslach Burnout Inventory (aMBI) and a composite score of Trait Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire (TEI) and its subscales (Self-control, Sociability, and Emotionality).Results:The overall rate of high burnout was 25.8.%, with 57.5% residents reporting high levels of EE, 50.8% high DP, and 49.2% reporting a low sense of PA. Age was significantly associated with DP and PA (P < 0.003) and (P < 0.0001) respectively. Marital status was the only variable associated with EE (p = 0.001). EE was significantly lower in single residents compared with married (P = 0.001). The global mean (± SD) of the TEI was 4.77. A statistically significant relationship was between PA and EI (r = 0.203, P = 0.026). The role of age and marital status were also significant.Conclusion:Among first-year medical trainees in Oman, the prevalence of burnout was 25.8%. This collaborates the trend in the existing literature that occupational burnout is common among tomorrow’s doctors. From this cross-cultural population, TEI did not impact the variation in aMBI, therefore, suggesting orthogonality of such domains.
Social and cognitive interactions through an interactive school service for RTT patients at the COVID-19 time
Authors: Dovigo Lucia , Caprì Tindara , Iannizzotto Giancarlo , Nucita Andrea , Semino Martina , Giannatiempo Samantha , Zocca Lia , Fabio Rosa Angela 
Published: November 2020

Abstract
Background: The closure of all educational institutions and most rehabilitation centres represents a precautionary measure to face the COVID-19 pandemic, but the isolation and social distancing may be particularly challenging for children with special needs and disabilities (SEND), such as Rett Syndrome (RTT). The main aim of this study was to promote cognitive and social interactions among children with RTT through an interactive school program. Methods: The Interactive School palimpsest was composed of moments in which a teacher spoke directly to children with RTT and expected a response through eye gaze, and moments in which stories-cartoon were presented while tracking the eye gaze of children. We investigated behavioural, social and cognitive parameters.Results: Children participated in both social and cognitive tasks with the spontaneous reduction of stereotypies and with increase in attention. They recalled more significant indexes when music or a song was presented together with a cartoon or a cognitive task. Conclusions: This study provides initial insights in promoting cognitive and social interactions and in the support needs of families with a child with RTT during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Machine learning prediction for mortality of patients diagnosed with COVID-19: a nationwide Korean cohort study
Authors: An Chansik , Lim Hyunsun , Kim Dong-Wook , Chang Jung Hyun , Choi Yoon Jung , Kim Seong Woo 
Published: November 2020

Abstract
The rapid spread of COVID-19 has resulted in the shortage of medical resources, which necessitates accurate prognosis prediction to triage patients effectively. This study used the nationwide cohort of South Korea to develop a machine learning model to predict prognosis based on sociodemographic and medical information. Of 10,237 COVID-19 patients, 228 (2.2%) died, 7,772 (75.9%) recovered, and 2,237 (21.9%) were still in isolation or being treated at the last follow-up (April 16, 2020). The Cox proportional hazards regression analysis revealed that age > 70, male sex, moderate or severe disability, the presence of symptoms, nursing home residence, and comorbidities of diabetes mellitus (DM), chronic lung disease, or asthma were significantly associated with increased risk of mortality (p ≤ 0.047). For machine learning, the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO), linear support vector machine (SVM), SVM with radial basis function kernel, random forest (RF), and k-nearest neighbors were tested. In prediction of mortality, LASSO and linear SVM demonstrated high sensitivities (90.7% [95% confidence interval: 83.3, 97.3] and 92.0% [85.9, 98.1], respectively) and specificities (91.4% [90.3, 92.5] and 91.8%, [90.7, 92.9], respectively) while maintaining high specificities >90%, as well as high area under the receiver operating characteristics curves (0.963 [0.946, 0.979] and 0.962 [0.945, 0.979], respectively). The most significant predictors for LASSO included old age and preexisting DM or cancer; for RF they were old age, infection route (cluster infection or infection from personal contact), and underlying hypertension. The proposed prediction model may be helpful for the quick triage of patients without having to wait for the results of additional tests such as laboratory or radiologic studies, during a pandemic when limited medical resources must be wisely allocated without hesitation.