bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Early fibroproliferative signs on high-resolution CT are associated with mortality in COVID-19 pneumonia patients with ARDS: a retrospective study
Authors: Zeng Zhilin , Xiang Min , Guan Hanxiong , Liu Yiwen , Zhang Huilan , Xia Liming , Zhan Juan , Hu Qiongjie 
Published: February 2021

Objectives: To investigate the chest high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) findings in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pneumonia patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and to evaluate its relationship with clinical outcome. Materials and methods: In this retrospective study, 79 COVID-19 patients with ARDS were recruited. Clinical data were extracted from electronic medical records and analyzed. HRCT scans, obtained within 3 days before clinical ARDS onset, were evaluated by three independent observers and graded into six findings according to the extent of fibroproliferation. Multivariable Cox proportional hazard regression analysis was used to assess the independent predictive value of the computed tomography (CT) score and radiological fibroproliferation. Patient survival was determined by Kaplan–Meier analysis. Results: Compared with survivors, non-survivors showed higher rates of lung fibroproliferation, whereas there were no significant differences in the area of increased attenuation without traction bronchiolectasis or bronchiectasis. A HRCT score <230 enabled the prediction of survival with 73.5% sensitivity and 93.3% specificity, 100% negative predictive value (NPP), 83.3% positive predictive value (PPV) and 88.6% accuracy (Area Under the Curve [AUC] = 0.9; 95% confidence Interval [CI] 0.831–0.968). A multivariate Cox proportional hazards model showed that the HRCT score is a significant independent risk factor for mortality (Hazard Ratio [HR] 9.94; 95% CI 4.10–24.12). Kaplan–Meier analysis revealed that a HRCT score ⩾230 was associated with a higher fatality rate. Organ injury occurred less frequently in patients with a HRCT score <230 compared to those with a HRCT score ⩾230. Conclusion: Early pulmonary fibroproliferative signs on HRCT are associated with increased mortality and susceptibility to organ injury in COVID-19 pneumonia patients with early ARDS.
Accessing behavioral health care during COVID: rapid transition from in-person to teleconferencing medical group visits
Authors: Juarez-Reyes Maria , Mui Heather Z. , Kling Samantha M.R. , Brown-Johnson Cati 
Published: February 2021

Background and aim: Effective and safe behavioral health interventions in primary care are critical during pandemic and other disaster situations. California shelter-in-place orders necessitated rapid transition of an effective mindfulness-based medical group visit (MGV) program from in-person to videoconferenced sessions (VCSs). Aim: to Describe procedures, acceptability, and feasibility of converting from in-person to VCS. Patients and methods: Methods: qualitative. Dataset: primary care. Intervention: a six-session 2-h MGV program with educational and mindfulness components was converted. Four in-person sessions and two VCSs were held. General Anxiety Disorder and Patient Health Questionnaire-9 were administered at first and last sessions. A semi-structured focus group was conducted after session six. Population studied: six primary care patients (42 ± 11 years) with stress, anxiety, or depression participated. Results: Procedural changes included remote material distribution, scheduling, hosting, and facilitation functions using the Zoom platform. The focus group revealed that patients preferred in-person sessions during initial visits, but appreciated transitioning to VCS, which provided continued support during a challenging time. Instruction on technical (e.g. logging on) and social (e.g. signaling next speaker) aspects of VCS was suggested. Building relationships through conversations was an important part before and after in-person sessions missing from VCS. Patients suggested combining in-person and VCS to allow relationship building while also improving access. Conclusion: While many procedural changes were needed to facilitate conversion to VCS, primary care patients seeking stress, anxiety, and depression interventions found VCS acceptable during COVID-19. Future iterations of this program are proposed which incorporate procedural changes and facilitate relationship building between patients in VCS.
In-hospital outcomes after percutaneous coronary interventions in cardiac allograft recipients
Authors: Isa Sakiru Oyetunji , Buhari Olajide , Adeniran-Isa Muminat , Khan Mahin , Khan Hafiz , Konda Raghunandan , Changezi Hameem , Afonso Luis 
Published: February 2021

Introduction: The average age and survival of heart transplant recipients have improved significantly over the last 10 years. In these long-term survivors, coronary allograft vasculopathy is one of the most common causes of death. There is a paucity of large-data research highlighting the short-term outcomes of percutaneous coronary interventions in cardiac allograft recipients. Methods: We compared the in-hospital outcomes of heart transplant recipient and non-transplant recipients following percutaneous coronary intervention using data from the National inpatient sample (NIS). All adult patients (age ⩾ 18 years) who had percutaneous coronary intervention in the index admissions from January of 2005 to December of 2014 were included in the analysis. They were then divided into two groups based on their heart transplant status. The primary outcome was in-hospital mortality. Secondary outcomes were stroke, cardiac arrest, duration of hospitalization, and total hospital charges. Logistic regression models were used to compare in-hospital outcomes between the two groups. Results: Of 1,316,528 patients who had percutaneous coronary intervention, 618 (0.05%) were heart transplant recipients and 1,315,910 (99.95%) were not. The heart transplant recipient group was significantly younger with lower rates of obesity and peripheral vascular disease but higher rate of chronic kidney disease, iron deficiency anemia, and chronic liver disease. There was significantly higher in-hospital mortality in transplant recipients below 65 years of age (adjusted odds ration = 2.3, p value < 0.0001). Subjects in the heart transplant recipient group also had longer hospital stays ( p value = 0.002). Conclusion: Heart transplant recipients younger than 65 years had higher in-hospital mortality. Subjects in the heart transplant recipient group were also younger and had longer duration of hospitalization than the non-transplant cohorts.
Urban health nexus with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) preparedness and response in Africa: Rapid scoping review of the early evidence
Authors: Alhassan Robert Kaba , Nutor Jerry John , Abuosi Aaron Asibi , Afaya Agani , Mohammed Solomon Salia , Dalaba Maxwel Ayindenaba , Immurana Mustapha , Manyeh Alfred Kwesi , Klu Desmond , Aberese-Ako Matilda , Doegah Phidelia Theresa , Acquah Evelyn , Nketiah-Amponsah Edward , Tampouri John , Akoriyea Samuel Kaba , Amuna Paul , Ansah Evelyn Kokor , Gyapong Margaret , Owusu-Agyei Seth , Gyapong John Owusu 
Published: February 2021

Introduction: Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 also called coronavirus disease 2019 was first reported in the African continent on 14 February 2020 in Egypt. As at 18 December 2020, the continent reported 2,449,754 confirmed cases, 57,817 deaths and 2,073,214 recoveries. Urban cities in Africa have particularly suffered the brunt of coronavirus disease 2019 coupled with criticisms that the response strategies have largely been a ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach. This article reviewed early evidence on urban health nexus with coronavirus disease 2019 preparedness and response in Africa. Methods: A rapid scoping review of empirical and grey literature was done using data sources such as ScienceDirect, GoogleScholar, PubMed, HINARI and official websites of World Health Organization and Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention. A total of 26 full articles (empirical studies, reviews and commentaries) were synthesised and analysed qualitatively based on predefined inclusion criteria on publication relevance and quality. Results: Over 70% of the 26 articles reported on coronavirus disease 2019 response strategies across Africa; 27% of the articles reported on preparedness towards coronavirus disease 2019, while 38% reported on urbanisation nexus with coronavirus disease 2019; 40% of the publications were full-text empirical studies, while the remaining 60% were either commentaries, reviews or editorials. It was found that urban cities remain epicentres of coronavirus disease 2019 in Africa. Even though some successes have been recorded in Africa regarding coronavirus disease 2019 fight, the continent’s response strategies were largely found to be a ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach. Consequently, adoption of ‘Western elitist’ mitigating measures for coronavirus disease 2019 containment resulted in excesses and spillover effects on individuals, families and economies in Africa. Conclusion: Africa needs to increase commitment to health systems strengthening through context-specific interventions and prioritisation of pandemic preparedness over response. Likewise, improved economic resilience and proper urban planning will help African countries to respond better to future public health emergencies, as coronavirus disease 2019 cases continue to surge on the continent.
Coping strategies: Seeking personalized care in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis. A patient reported measure–coping responses inventory
Authors: Vanotti Sandra , Cabral Nadia , Eizaguirre Maria Barbara , Marinangeli Aldana , Roman Maria Sol , Alonso Ricardo , Silva Berenice , Garcea Orlando 
Published: February 2021

Background Coping is defined as a set of cognitive and behavioral efforts made to master stressful specific demands. Adaptation to chronic diseases, such as Multiple Sclerosis (MS), depends on the effectiveness of coping. Objective: To assess the psychometric properties of the Coping Responses Inventory (CRI-A) in persons with MS (PwMS), verifying the transferability of the measure, already validated in the Argentine general population, and to describe the types of coping strategies available for PwMS. Methods: 90 PwMS were included. Outcome measures: CRI-A Inventory, Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS), Beck Depression Inventory, Fatigue Severity Scale and MS International Quality of Life questionnaire. Results: Descriptive data is as follows: mean age (years): 40.97 ± 12.85; years of education: 13.46 ± 3.93; EDSS: 2.48 ± 1.79; disease evolution (years): 10.76 ± 9.72; depression: 13.92 ± 10.45; fatigue 3.77 ± 1.72. The psychometric properties of the CRI-A Inventory observed in the Argentine general population are present in the MS sample as well, with adequate validity and reliability. The respondents most frequently utilized a problem-focused coping style. Conclusions: Results showed the CRI-A has good transferability properties from the Argentine general population to the MS population.
Reviewing the relationship between machines and radiology: the application of artificial intelligence
Authors: Ahmad Rani 
Published: February 2021

Background The scope and productivity of artificial intelligence applications in health science and medicine, particularly in medical imaging, are rapidly progressing, with relatively recent developments in big data and deep learning and increasingly powerful computer algorithms. Accordingly, there are a number of opportunities and challenges for the radiological community. Purpose To provide review on the challenges and barriers experienced in diagnostic radiology on the basis of the key clinical applications of machine learning techniques. Material and Methods Studies published in 2010–2019 were selected that report on the efficacy of machine learning models. A single contingency table was selected for each study to report the highest accuracy of radiology professionals and machine learning algorithms, and a meta-analysis of studies was conducted based on contingency tables. Results The specificity for all the deep learning models ranged from 39% to 100%, whereas sensitivity ranged from 85% to 100%. The pooled sensitivity and specificity were 89% and 85% for the deep learning algorithms for detecting abnormalities compared to 75% and 91% for radiology experts, respectively. The pooled specificity and sensitivity for comparison between radiology professionals and deep learning algorithms were 91% and 81% for deep learning models and 85% and 73% for radiology professionals (p < 0.000), respectively. The pooled sensitivity detection was 82% for health-care professionals and 83% for deep learning algorithms (p < 0.005). Conclusion Radiomic information extracted through machine learning programs form images that may not be discernible through visual examination, thus may improve the prognostic and diagnostic value of data sets.
Concussion-reporting behaviors among high school athletes in Ireland: Applying the theory of planned behavior
Authors: Sullivan Lindsay , Pursell Lisa , Molcho Michal 
Published: February 2021

Background Sport-related concussion is a significant public health issue, especially among children and adolescents. A growing body of evidence suggests that athletes who do not immediately report concussion and continue to play while concussed take longer to recover than their counterparts. Yet, many child and adolescent athletes do not immediately report concussion symptoms to a responsible adult. Aim This study examined the utility of the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) in predicting concussion reporting intentions and in-season reporting behaviors among high school, Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA) athletes in the Republic of Ireland. Methods High school GAA athletes aged 12-18 years completed surveys at baseline and at three-month follow-up. Concussion-related perceived behavioral control (PBC), attitudes, subjective norms, and reporting intentions were assessed at baseline. In-season concussion reporting behaviors were assessed at three-month follow-up. Hierarchical linear regression models were used to examine the relationship between the constructs of the TPB and baseline reporting intentions. Logistic regression models were used to examine the relationship between the constructs of the TPB and in-season reporting behaviors. All data were collected during the 2016–2017 academic year. Results A total of 153 adolescent athletes were included (n = 102 [66.7%] females; Mage = 14.4 years, [SD = 1.6]). Consistent with the TPB, results revealed that PBC and reporting intentions contributed to the prediction of in-season reporting behaviors. Reporting intentions, in turn, were strongly influenced by PBC, attitudes, and subjective norms. PBC was the strongest predictor of concussion reporting intentions and in-season reporting behaviors; the stronger the athletes’ PBC, the stronger their reporting intentions and the more likely they were to have reported concussion symptoms during the current season. Conclusion Although the findings from the current study must be interpreted cautiously given the small sample size, the findings suggest that the TPB has some utility in the prediction of concussion reporting intentions and reporting behaviors. However, our findings suggest that the TPB should not be used in isolation; other models that incorporate personal factors and environmental constraints may be needed to better our understanding of concussion reporting intentions and behaviors among high school athletes. Concussion education programs that include strategies to enhance PBC over concussion reporting may help improve concussion reporting behaviors among high school athletes.
Depression and Health-Related Quality of Life Among Elderly Patients during the COVID-19 Pandemic in Israel: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Levkovich Inbar , Shinan-Altman Shiri , Essar Schvartz Neta , Alperin Mordechai 
Published: February 2021

Aim: This study aims to assess how optimism, social support, and perceived susceptibility are associated with depressive symptoms and health-related quality of life among elderly patients during the COVID-19 pandemic in Israel. Methods: In a cross-sectional study, 256 participants age 60 through 95 completed the following self-administered questionnaires: Perceived Susceptibility, Life Orientation Test (LOT-R), Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS), Symptoms of Depression (CES-D) and health-related quality of life (SF-12v2 Health Survey). Data were collected from June to July 2020, 3 months after the COVID-19 state of emergency was declared in Israel. Participants were interviewed by family medicine residents via telephone. Statistical analyses included Pearson correlations, t-tests between groups, regression analyses, and Hayes’ PROCESS to analyze a moderated mediation model. Results: Of the elderly participants, 37.5% were classified as having depression. Optimism, social support and health-related quality of life were positively associated. Higher optimism and social support were related to lower perceived susceptibility and lower depression. Results of a multivariate regression explained 29% of the variance in depression and 19% of the variance in health-related quality of life. The relationships assessed by 4 Process models were significant, such that higher optimism and social support were related to lower perceived susceptibility, which in turn was related to higher depression and lower health-related quality of life. Conclusions: Optimism and social support may be effective in coping with challenges and buffering depression. Perceived susceptibility may mediate the association of optimism and social support with higher depression and lower health-related quality of life. The conclusions of this study underscore the need to treat depression among older adults during this period. Hence, healthcare providers should also support elderly patients living at home. In giving this type of help, healthcare providers should strive to increase social support and optimism among older adults.
Impact of a Yogic Breathing Technique on the Well-Being of Healthcare Professionals During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Kanchibhotla Divya , Saisudha Bharathi , Ramrakhyani Somya , Mehta Darshan H 
Published: February 2021

Background The COVID-19 pandemic has created unprecedented challenges for healthcare globally, the brunt of which has been borne by the health care providers (HCPs). These challenges are felt more keenly in India, as they stretch an insufficiently resourced healthcare system. The long hours, cross over of responsibilities, lack of resources to adequately care for patients, and concerns around safety of self and loves ones, have led to a spike in anxiety, depression, insomnia and other stress – related disorders in healthcare providers. Sudarshan Kriya Yoga (SKY) is a mind-body intervention that has been studied in multiple clinical populations. Prior to this study, there has been no exploration of the impact of SKY on healthcare providers, specifically the impact of a mind-body intervention like SKY on HCPs during a pandemic. Objective This study aims to investigate the impact of SKY on the well-being of HCPs during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods We conducted a pilot feasibility study with a single arm pre-post design. SKY was taught to participants in a 4-day online breath and meditation workshop. We measured outcomes related to depression, anxiety, resilience, life satisfaction, and quality of sleep. Results Ninety-two subjects completed the study survey before and after the intervention. A significant reduction was observed in the levels of stress, anxiety and depression immediately after the program. In addition, the participants reported sig1nificant improvement in life satisfaction, resilience, and the quality of their sleep. Conclusion The results indicate that SKY breathing technique had a positive impact on the well-being of healthcare professionals during the pandemic. Participants experienced improved quality of sleep, enhanced satisfaction with life, and increased resilience after SKY. This pilot study provides important data for future multi-site randomized controlled trials to study the impact of yogic techniques on well-being of the HCPs.
Can We All Speak the Same ‘Language’ for Our Patients’ Sake? Feedback on Interprofessional Communication and Related Resources
Authors: Nguyen Janet , Hunter Jennifer , Smith Lorraine , Forth Amy , Tyler Amy , Furney Louise , Ee Carolyn , Harnett Joanna E 
Published: February 2021

Background The Australasian Integrative Medicine Association (AIMA) established a working group to develop the AIMA Guiding Principles for Letter Writing and Letter Writing Templates. The guiding principles were developed to promote effective communication between the diverse range of healthcare practitioners (HCPs) that patients choose to consult. Following the development of the Interprofessional Communication (IPC) resources, AIMA undertook a public consultation as part of a quality assurance process to evaluate the relevance and utility of the resource. Aim This study reports stakeholder feedback on AIMA’s draft guiding principles document. It explores stakeholder attitudes towards IPC and HCPs letter-writing, and interest in ongoing continuing professional development (CPD). Methods A cross-sectional survey involving 1) an online public consultation survey and 2) a paper survey collected following IPC CPD activities. Quantitative data were analysed using Chi square and Fisher-Freeman-Halton Test. Responses to open ended questions were coded and subject to a thematic analysis. Results The 64 survey participants and 55 CPD participants represented the Australian healthcare sectors and lay community. Most thought IPC is important (n = 112/117; 96%) and the resources were informative (n = 112/119; 94%), understandable (n = 111/119; 93%), and clinically relevant (n = 105/117; 90%). HCP reported wide variations in their frequency of correspondence with other practitioner types, with rates often concerningly low. Key IPC themes identified were the importance of continuity of care, clarity of communication, and professional practice. CPD participants were most interested in further IPC training (p = 0.001). Conclusions The IPC resources affirm the role of formal communication pathways, such as letters of correspondence to support coordinated, patient-centred and multidisciplinary care. Challenges with letter writing and IPC signal the need for more student and professional education on the subject to promote continuity of patient care and the delivery of high quality, integrative medicine and health care services.