bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Outcomes of First Metatarsophalangeal Joint Fusion Using a Precontoured Plate
Authors: Riediger Michael , Sheridan Gerard A. , Gul Rehan 
Published: March 2021

Background: The purpose of this study was to determine the results of an arthrodesis technique of the first metatarsophalangeal joint (MTPJ) using a precontoured dorsal plate to correct the hallux valgus deformity. Methods: This was a retrospective analysis of outcomes for first MTPJ arthrodesis performed using 2 precontoured dorsal plates. Radiographic outcomes (intermetatarsal angle [IMA] and hallux valgus angle [HVA]) and patient-reported functional outcome measures (Short-Form 12 and Foot and Ankle Outcome Score) were recorded and compared. Results: Fifty-five patients underwent 77 first MTPJ arthrodeses for severe hallux valgus deformity with associated degenerative changes at the first MTPJ. The mean reduction of the IMA was 5.67° ( P < .05) and the mean reduction of the HVA was 33° ( P < .05). The Short-Form 12 assessment of global health demonstrated a significant improvement in both the physical and mental health composite scores by 16.4 points and 10.4 points ( P < .05), respectively. The Foot and Ankle Outcome Score demonstrated a cumulative decrease of 35% (59.28; P < .05) in all domains. Conclusions: First MTPJ arthrodesis using a precontoured dorsal plate is a successful procedure with a high union rate, low complication rate, and a high level of patient-reported satisfaction. Levels of Evidence: Level III.
Improving Questionnaires for Medical Surveillance of Hazardous Drug Exposure: Results of a Pilot Study
Authors: Mitchell Peter , McGovern Patricia Marie , Kirkhorn Steven 
Published: March 2021

Background: Numerous drugs pose harm to healthcare workers. Medical surveillance (MS) questionnaires often do not capture desired information. Social cognitive theory, plain language, and quality improvement were explored to design an MS questionnaire. The goal of this study was to pilot test an MS questionnaire assessing employees’ hazardous drug (HD) exposures consistent with a 2016 public standard addressing safe handling of HDs in health care. Methods: A cross-sectional study design was used to conduct qualitative analysis of questionnaire data collected from a convenience sample of three to five employees from each of the four departments at elevated risk of HD exposures in a large tertiary healthcare organization. Key research questions addressed employees’ understanding of questionnaire items and interview completion rates. Findings: Fourteen employees (oncology nurses, pharmacy technicians, housekeepers, and laundry workers) participated. None had participated in the organization’s prior hazardous drug medical surveillance (HDMS) activities. For the surveillance process, employees preferred in-person interviews to emailed questionnaires. Challenges for questionnaire comprehension related to employees’ basic skills of literacy and numeracy. Conclusion/Application to Practice: Strategies for ensuring employee comprehension of health and safety communications are critical. Questionnaires should be written in plain language employees can understand the first time it is read.
Effectiveness of Health Guidance Simulation in Community Settings for Public Health Nursing Students: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Yoshioka-Maeda Kyoko , Naruse Kazuko 
Published: March 2021

Introduction Simulation-based learning is a relatively new concept in public health nursing education, and little is known about the efficacy of this approach for teaching of health guidance. Objective The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of health guidance simulation in community settings for public health nursing students. Methods Using a pre/post-test design, 29 public health nursing students in their third year participated in a high-fidelity simulation program with standardized patients. We developed six scenarios on health guidance for three themes (mother and child, tuberculosis, and adult occupational health) and practice guidelines for the standardized patients to act and assist in understanding of the purpose of the course. Data were collected at baseline and after the simulation sessions through evaluation sheets that the students placed in a designated box on campus. Changes in the level of self-confidence of the students were evaluated based on the “practical skills required for public health nurses and achievement level at graduation” of the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, and the skills in the minimum requirements for public health nurse education defined by the Japan Association of Public Health Nurse Educational Institutions. Results The total score for self-confidence and the mean self-confidence scores for health guidance skills for mother and child, tuberculosis, and adult occupational health nursing were significantly higher post-test compared to pre-test ( p < 0.001). Conclusion These results indicate that high-fidelity simulation focused on health guidance in community settings can bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practice of students.
High-Pressure Injection Injuries to the Foot: A Case Report of 2 Patients
Authors: Gerzina Christopher , Suryavanshi Joash , Grimes Jerry 
Published: March 2021

Background: High-pressure injections injuries to the extremities can result in significant disability, including amputation of the affected limb. Proprietary mixtures associated with drill mud and hydraulic fracking leads to frequent encounters with varied materials. The physician needs to be aware of the effect of these materials when inadvertent exposure occurs. Injected toxic materials cause extensive soft tissue inflammation and destruction. This puts the foot at risk not only to the cleaning fluid used, generally water, but any contaminant on the boot at the time of injury. This case report is the first known case report involving injection with drill mud contaminant and describes 2 oil field injuries resulting in the gross deep contamination of the foot from a high-pressure washer injury. Case Report: Two patients, a 46-year-old man (patient 1) and a 29-year-old man (patient 2) sustained high-pressure injection injuries to the foot. These patients underwent treatment with immediate broad-spectrum antibiotics and emergent irrigation and debridement on arrival to the treating facility. Neither patient underwent amputation of the affected extremity as a result of their injuries and achieved a full recovery and return to work. Conclusion: High-pressure injection injuries are operative emergencies. Treatment should include tetanus prophylaxis, neurovascular monitoring, broad-spectrum antibiotic coverage, emergent operative debridement for toxic materials. Despite the toxic nature of the injection injuries, aggressive treatment can improve the chance of salvage in these industrial injuries.
Phase 2 study of ibrutinib in classic and variant hairy cell leukemia
Authors: Rogers Kerry A. , Andritsos Leslie A. , Wei Lai , McLaughlin Eric M. , Ruppert Amy S. , Anghelina Mirela , Blachly James S. , Call Timothy , Chihara Dai , Dauki Anees , Guo Ling , Ivy S. Percy , James Lacey R. , Jones Daniel , Kreitman Robert J. , Lozanski Gerard , Lucas David M. , Ngankeu Apollinaire , Phelps Mitch , Ravandi Farhad , Schiffer Charles A. , Carson William E. , Jones Jeffrey A. , Grever Michael R. 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Hairy cell leukemia (HCL) is a rare B-cell malignancy, and there is a need for novel treatments for patients who do not benefit from purine analogs. Ibrutinib, an oral agent targeting Bruton tyrosine kinase in the B-cell receptor signaling pathway, is highly effective in several malignancies. Its activity in HCL was unknown, so we conducted a multisite phase 2 study of oral ibrutinib in patients with either relapsed classic or variant hairy cell leukemia. The primary outcome measure was the overall response rate (ORR) at 32 weeks, and we also assessed response at 48 weeks and best response during treatment. Key secondary objectives were characterization of toxicity and determination of progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS). Thirty-seven patients were enrolled at 2 different doses (24 at 420 mg, 13 at 840 mg). The median duration of follow-up was 3.5 years (range, 0-5.9 years). The ORR at 32 weeks was 24%, which increased to 36% at 48 weeks. The best ORR was 54%. The estimated 36-month PFS was 73% and OS was 85%. The most frequent adverse events were diarrhea (59%), fatigue (54%), myalgia (54%), and nausea (51%). Hematologic adverse events were common: anemia (43%), thrombocytopenia (41%), and neutropenia (35%). Ibrutinib can be safely administered to patients with HCL with objective responses and results in prolonged disease control. Although the initial primary outcome objective of the study was not met, the observation of objective responses in heavily pretreated patients coupled with a favorable PFS suggests that ibrutinib may be beneficial in these patients. This trial was registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov as #NCT01841723.
Validation of the Arabic linguistic version of the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-overactive bladder (ICIQ-OAB)
Authors: Taha Diaa-Eldin , Elbaset M. A. , Hashem Abdelwahab , Nabeeh Hossam , Ibrahim Ali , Pardoe Megan N. , Elhefnawy Ahmed S. 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Background
Overactive bladder (OAB) is a health burden that needs an Arabic assessment tool. The idea is to validate the Arabic version of the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-overactive bladder (ICIQ-OAB).

Methods
A multicenter cross-sectional study carried out between March 2019 and February 2020. The translated ICIQ-OAB was used to assess the 227 patients. The enrolled patients were 112 complaining of symptoms suggestive of OAB, 115 healthy without LUTS symptoms. Additionally, patients with and without BOO symptoms were included. The reliability assessment of the internal consistency was done using Cronbach’s α test. With the aid of Spearman’s correlation coefficient (r), the interdomain associations were assessed. The Mann–Whitney test was used to assess the discrimination validity.

Results
A high internal consistency between the mean scores of women with and those without OAB as well as BOO groups, Cronbach’s alpha value was 0.82. A strong correlation obviates among whole ICIQ domains in OAB set (P ≤ 0.001). Equally, a high correlation exists among each domain in the BOO group, and Cronbach’s alpha value was 0.82. In comparison with control, highly significant scores exist for all ICIQ-OAB domains and entire points in the BOO as well as OAB sets (P < 0.001). The ICIQ-OAB was found to have good discriminant validity.

Conclusion
A formulated and approved ICIQ-OAB -Arabic release is a value tool for addressing OAB symptom complex. The easy questionnaire will be a useful tool in grading the bother symptoms in Arabic speaking inhabitant.
SAveRUNNER: an R-based tool for drug repurposing
Authors: Fiscon Giulia , Paci Paola 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Background
Currently, no proven effective drugs for the novel coronavirus disease COVID-19 exist and despite widespread vaccination campaigns, we are far short from herd immunity. The number of people who are still vulnerable to the virus is too high to hamper new outbreaks, leading a compelling need to find new therapeutic options devoted to combat SARS-CoV-2 infection. Drug repurposing represents an effective drug discovery strategy from existing drugs that could shorten the time and reduce the cost compared to de novo drug discovery.

Results
We developed a network-based tool for drug repurposing provided as a freely available R-code, called SAveRUNNER (Searching off-lAbel dRUg aNd NEtwoRk), with the aim to offer a promising framework to efficiently detect putative novel indications for currently marketed drugs against diseases of interest. SAveRUNNER predicts drug–disease associations by quantifying the interplay between the drug targets and the disease-associated proteins in the human interactome through the computation of a novel network-based similarity measure, which prioritizes associations between drugs and diseases located in the same network neighborhoods.

Conclusions
The algorithm was successfully applied to predict off-label drugs to be repositioned against the new human coronavirus (2019-nCoV/SARS-CoV-2), and it achieved a high accuracy in the identification of well-known drug indications, thus revealing itself as a powerful tool to rapidly detect potential novel medical indications for various drugs that are worth of further investigation. SAveRUNNER source code is freely available at https://github.com/giuliafiscon/SAveRUNNER.git, along with a comprehensive user guide.
Co-expression of double-stranded RNA and viral capsid protein in the novel engineered Escherichia coli DualX-B15(DE3) strain
Authors: Wuthisathid Kitti , Chaijarasphong Thawatchai , Chotwiwatthanakun Charoonroj , Somrit Monsicha , Sritunyalucksana Kallaya , Itsathitphaisarn Ornchuma 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Background
Viruses cause significant economic losses to shrimp aquaculture worldwide. In severe cases, they can lead to 100% mortality within a matter of days, hence the aquaculture industry requires antiviral strategies to minimize economic impacts. Currently, a double-stranded RNA (dsRNA)-based platform has been proven effective at a laboratory scale. The bottleneck for its industrialization is the lack of low-cost, efficient and practical delivery approaches. In an effort to bridge the gap between laboratory and farm applications, virus-like particles (VLP) have been used as nanocarriers of dsRNA. However, the implementation of this approach still suffers from high costs and a lengthy procedure, co-expression of subunits of VLP or capsid proteins (CPs) and dsRNA can be the solution for the problem. CP and dsRNA are traditionally expressed in two different E. coli hosts: protease-deficient and RNase III-deficient strains. To condense the manufacturing of dsRNA-containing VLP, this study constructed a novel E. coli strain that is able to co-express viral capsid proteins and dsRNA in the same E. coli cell.

Results
A novel bacterial strain DualX-B15(DE3) was engineered to be both protease- and RNase III-deficiency via P1 phage transduction. The results revealed that it could simultaneously express recombinant proteins and dsRNA.

Conclusion
Co-expression of viral capsid proteins and dsRNA in the same cell has been shown to be feasible. Not only could this platform serve as a basis for future cost-effective and streamlined production of shrimp antiviral therapeutics, it may be applicable for other applications that requires co-expression of recombinant proteins and dsRNA.
In-laboratory breast specimen radiography reduces tissue block utilization and improves turnaround time of pathologic examination
Authors: Arudra Sri Krishna Chaitanya , Garvey Laura C. , Hagemann Ian S. 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Background
This study was performed to determine whether in-laboratory specimen radiography reduces turnaround time or block utilization in surgical pathology.

Methods
Specimens processed during a 48-day trial of an in-lab cabinet radiography device (Faxitron) were compared to a control group of specimens imaged in the mammography suite during a prior 1-year period, and to a second group of specimens not undergoing imaging of any type.

Results
Cases imaged in the mammography suite had longer turnaround time than cases not requiring imaging (by 1.15 days for core biopsies, and 1.73 days for mastectomies; p < 0.0001). In contrast, cases imaged in-lab had turnaround time that was no longer than unimaged cases (p > 0.05 for core biopsies, lumpectomies and mastectomies). Mastectomies imaged in-lab required submission of fewer blocks than controls not undergoing any imaging (mean reduction of 10.6 blocks).

Conclusions
Availability of in-lab radiography resulted in clinically meaningful improvements in turnaround time and economically meaningful reductions in block utilization.
PRIME-HCC: phase Ib study of neoadjuvant ipilimumab and nivolumab prior to liver resection for hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Pinato David J. , Cortellini Alessio , Sukumaran Ajithkumar , Cole Tom , Pai Madhava , Habib Nagy , Spalding Duncan , Sodergren Mikael H. , Martinez Maria , Dhillon Tony , Tait Paul , Thomas Robert , Ward Caroline , Kocher Hemant , Yip Vincent , Slater Sarah , Sharma Rohini 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Background
After liver resection (LR), patients with hepatocellular cancer (HCC) are at high risk of recurrence. There are no approved anti-cancer therapies known to affect such risk, highlighting the acute need for novel systemic therapies to control the probability of disease relapse. Immunotherapy is expanding as a novel treatment option for HCC. Emerging data from cohort 4 of the CA209–040 study, which investigated the safety and preliminary efficacy of nivolumab/ipilimumab co-administration in advanced HCC, suggest that the combination can be delivered safely with an acceptable proportion of reversible grade 3–4 toxicities (27.1%) and a low discontinuation rate (2%) in patients with HCC. Here, we describe the design and rationale of PRIME-HCC, a two-part, multi-centre, phase Ib study to assess safety and bioactivity of the nivolumab/ipilimumab combination prior to LR in early-stage HCC.

Methods
The study involves an initial safety run-in phase (Part 1) to allow for preliminary safety characterisation within the first 6 patients enrolled and a subsequent expansion (Part 2). Ipilimumab will be administered once only on Day 1. Nivolumab will be administered on Day 1 and Day 22 (± 3 days) for a total of two 21-day cycles (i.e. 6 weeks of treatment). The primary objective of the study is to determine the safety and tolerability of the nivolumab/ipilimumab combination prior to LR. The secondary objective is to preliminarily characterize the efficacy of the combination prior to LR, including objective response rate (ORR) and pathologic response rates. Additional exploratory objectives include preliminary evidence of long-term disease control and to identify predictive correlates of response to the nivolumab/ipilimumab combination in HCC.

Discussion
The results of this study will help define the positioning of neoadjuvant nivolumab/ipilimumab combination in the perioperative management of HCC, with potential to improve survival outcomes in this patient population.

Trial registration
EudraCT Number: 2018–000987-27 Clinical trial registry & ID: ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT03682276.
Correlation of macular sensitivity measures and visual acuity to vision-related quality of life in patients with age-related macular degeneration
Authors: Forshaw Thomas Richard Johansen , Parpounas Alexandra Kalia , Sørensen Torben Lykke 
Published: March 2021

AbstractBackgroundVisual acuity is commonly used as a functional outcome measure in patients with age-related macular degeneration (AMD), despite having a weak correlation with self-perceived visual quality of life. Microperimetry is a useful method of detecting loss of macular function. We wanted to investigate the relationship between these two objective visual outcome measures and subjective vision-related quality of life, finding out which objective measure is more patient-relevant.MethodsFifty-one consecutive patients with AMD were recruited to the study. Participants were required to complete the Visual Function Questionnaire 39, the Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study visual acuity examination and a microperimetry assessment using the Micro Perimeter 3. One patient withdrew consent and seven patients dropped out due to cooperation difficulties under microperimetry. Forty-three patients with AMD were included in the study: twenty-eight patients with late AMD (exudative AMD) and fifteen patients with early (non-exudative) AMD. The right eye was included as standard, as was the eye with the best-corrected visual acuity.ResultsThere was a higher correlation between vision-related quality of life and macular sensitivity (r = 0.458;p = 0.014) than between vision-related quality of life and visual acuity (r = 0.446;p = 0.018) in patients with late AMD. There was a positive correlation between vision-related quality of life and macular sensitivity in patients with early AMD (r = 0.542;p = 0.037) while the correlation between vision-related quality of life and visual acuity in these patients was not statistically significant. Composite score (r = 0.469;p = 0.012) correlated highest with the nasal outer macular sub-region and near-distance activities score (r = 0.652;p < 0.001) correlated highest with the nasal inner macular sub-region in patients with late AMD. Correlations between composite score and macular sub-regions in patients with early AMD were not significant, but near-distance activities score correlated with the nasal outer macular sub-region in these patients (r = 0.469;p = 0.012).ConclusionsMacular sensitivity as measured using microperimetry correlates with vision-related quality of life in early AMD and in late AMD, showing it to be a patient-relevant outcome measure. Furthermore, the nasal sub-regions of the macula appear to be preferred retinal loci in patients with AMD.(338 words)
Prevalence of dry eye syndrome in association with the use of contact lenses in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Almutairi Abeer Habeeb , Alalawi Bayan Sulaiman , Badr Ghadir Hamzah , Alawaz Razan Ahmed , Albarry Maan , Elbadawy Hossein M. 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Background
Dry eye disease is a tear film disorder which can cause discomfort to patients and negatively affect vision acuity. A number of risk factors has been reported to affect the incidence and severity of dry eye syndrome (DES). The aim is to study the prevalence of DES in Saudi Arabia and the factors affecting the severity of DES in relation to the use of contact lenses.

Methods
A cross-sectional questionnaire-based study was conducted on 310 participants using the ocular surface disease index (OSDI) questionnaire and the eye dryness part from contact lens questionnaire-8 (CLDEQ-8). Dry eye OSDI scores were compared across different epidemiological and risk factors with focus on the use of contact lenses. Pearson and Spearman’s correlation coefficients were used to analyze the frequency of contact lenses usage in relation to OSDI scores. Student’s t-test and one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) tests were used to compare means of two or more than two groups, respectively.

Results
Forty eight (15.5%) of participants did not have any degree of DES, achieving an OSDI score between 0 and 12. Forty participants (12.9%) scored from 13 to 22, (mild DES), 44 (14.2%) were moderate, scoring 23–32 on the OSDI, while those who scored above 33 were 178 (57.4%) had severe DES. The mean score for all participants was 37.8. A high percentage of participants (84.5%) had some degree of DES. There was a strong positive correlation between OSDI score and the frequency of the feeling of dry eye and a moderate positive correlation between OSDI score and the intensity of dryness feeling. Out of 310 participants, 136 (43.9%) indicated using contact lenses. There was no significant association between the use of contact lenses per se and DES, however, those who used contact lenses more frequently had significantly higher OSDI scores.

Conclusions
Dry eye syndrome is a widespread, underdiagnosed condition in Saudi Arabia. The frequency of contact lenses use may contribute to the incidence of DES.