bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Resilience and active coping style
Authors: Popa-Velea Ovidiu , Diaconescu Liliana , Jidveian Popescu Mara , Truţescu Carmen 
Published: August 2017

Objective This study aimed to assess the association between resilience, active coping styles and the self-perceived quality of life in cancer patients. Additionally, we evaluated the contribution brought to quality of life by demographic variables (age, gender, occupational status) and medical ones (tumour, node and metastasis [TNM] stage, time from diagnosis, number of treatment lines). Methods The study design was cross-sectional. One hundred and seventy-eight patients (94 males, 84 females; mean age 56.20, SD = 7.81) consecutively admitted to two specialty hospitals in Bucharest and displaying TNM cancer stages II-IV were administered the Brief COPE Questionnaire, the RS-14 Resilience Scale and the Rotterdam symptom checklist. Hierarchical regression was used to analyze the relationship between the study variables and the quality of life components (physical distress, psychological distress, and the ability to remain active). Results The quality of life scores were within the average limits, despite 87.6% of patients being in an advanced cancer stage. Both resilience and active coping scores were in the higher range (resilience mean = 78.10, SD = 13.31, 95%CI = 76.14–80.06; active coping mean = 18.33, SD = 4.39, 95%CI = 17.68–18.98). Resilience correlated significantly with all quality of life components (global: p < .001, physical distress: p < .04, psychological distress: p < .0005, activity level: p < .03), whereas active coping did it only indirectly, via resilience. Among other variables, occupational status and time from diagnosis correlated inversely to two of quality of life components, and TNM stage to all. Conclusions This study points out the importance of resilience in influencing the self-perception of quality of life in cancer patients. Considering that resilience can be improved through psychological intervention, our findings may be useful for the design, adjustment, and implementation of future psychotherapeutic protocols.
A guide to psychopharmacological treatment of patients with intellectual disability in psychiatry
Authors: Molina-Ruiz Rosa M , Martín-Carballeda Julia , Asensio-Moreno Inmaculada , Montañés-Rada Francisco 
Published: August 2017

Background Subjects with intellectual disability are at increased risk of having comorbid psychiatric disorders and worse response to psychotherapeutic and psychopharmacological treatment interventions. On the other hand, available data on best treatment approach in this population are scarce and lack scientific evidence due to methodological limitations. The present study aims to perform a systematic review of the literature to facilitate the use of psychotropic drugs in clinical practice and better establish future research targets in this field. Objectives To review the available psychopharmacological strategies for patients with intellectual disabilities, psychiatric disorders, and behavioural disturbances. Serve as a quick guide for clinicians working in the field of intellectual disability. Methods We conducted a selective evidence-based review of the literature using Pubmed and EMBASE databases and selected most recent and relevant papers for this review. Results There are several available psychotropic drugs for the treatment of patients with intellectual disability and comorbid psychiatric disorders, although scientific evidence is limited. Treatment should be individualized according to risk–benefit balance. Discussion Further studies are needed and new available drugs should be considered to gain knowledge in effectiveness of different therapeutic approaches available in this population.
Executive function in cancer patients with posttraumatic stress disorder
Authors: Yang Juan , Guo Juncheng , Jiang Xiangling 
Published: August 2017

Background Cancer patients with posttraumatic stress disorder can lead to their noncompliant behaviors. However, less is known about the neurocognitive functioning of posttraumatic stress disorder in general cancer types or patient populations. The current study attempted to examine the prevalence of posttraumatic stress disorder and their relationships with executive function in individuals with cancer. Methods A total of 285 cancer patients with posttraumatic stress disorder and 150 healthy individuals were recruited for the present study. The Clinician Administered PTSD Scale, Tower of Hanoi, Wisconsin Card Sorting Test, and Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale-Revised Chinese revision were administered to all participants. Results Significant differences in the score of Tower of Hanoi, Wisconsin Card Sorting Test, and Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale-Revised Chinese revision were observed between the posttraumatic stress disorder group and the healthy control group ( p < 0.001). Significant correlations were found between all posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms and executive function. Conclusions These findings suggest that individuals with cancer-related posttraumatic stress disorder exhibit more severe impairment in executive function than healthy controls do.
Astrocytic endfoot Ca2+ correlates with parenchymal vessel responses during 4-AP induced epilepsy: An in vivo two-photon lifetime microscopy study
Authors: Zhang Cong , Tabatabaei Maryam , Bélanger Samuel , Girouard Hélène , Moeini Mohammad , Lu Xuecong , Lesage Frédéric 
Published: August 2017

Neurovascular coupling (NVC) underlying the local increase in blood flow during neural activity forms the basis of functional brain imaging and is altered in epilepsy. Because astrocytic calcium (Ca2+) signaling is involved in NVC, this study investigates the role of this pathway in epilepsy. Here, we exploit 4-AP induced epileptic events to show that absolute Ca2+ concentration in cortical astrocyte endfeet in vivo correlates with the diameter of precapillary arterioles during neural activity. We simultaneously monitored free Ca2+ concentration in astrocytic endfeet with the Ca2+-sensitive indicator OGB-1 and diameter of adjacent arterioles in the somatosensory cortex of adult mice by two-photon fluorescence lifetime measurements following 4-AP injection. Our results reveal that, regardless of the mechanism by which astrocytic endfoot Ca2+ was elevated during epileptic events, increases in Ca2+ associated with vasodilation for each individual ictal event in the focus. In the remote area, increases in Ca2+ correlated with vasoconstriction at the onset of seizure and vasodilation during the later part of the seizure. Furthermore, a slow increase in absolute Ca2+ with time following multiple seizures was observed, which in turn, correlated with a trend of arteriolar constriction both at the epileptic focus and remote areas.
Assessing the validity of the Triage Risk Screening Tool in a third world setting
Authors: Lalla Ravi , Sammy Ian , Paul Joanne , Nunes Paula , Ramcharitar Maharaj Vidya , Robertson Paula 
Published: August 2017

Background Social risk is rarely evaluated in older emergency department (ED) patients, although its identification can reduce re-attendance. Objectives This study assessed the diagnostic accuracy of the Triage Risk Screening Tool (TRST) in the ED of a developing country. Methods The diagnostic accuracy of the TRST to detect elderly adults in need of social service intervention was compared with routine clinical evaluation, using comprehensive evaluation by an experienced social worker as the “gold standard”. The inter-rater reliability of the TRST was assessed on a separate cohort of patients prior to the main study. Results The sensitivity of the TRST was 94.7% versus 55.6% for physician assessment. The TRST had good inter-rater reliability (Cohen’s kappa = .882), and physicians found it easy to use. Conclusion The TRST provides a rapid means of assessing risk in older ED patients. This study confirmed the validity of this screening tool in a third world setting.
Blood oxygen level-dependent magnetic resonance imaging for detecting pathological patterns in patients with lupus nephritis: a preliminary study using gray-level co-occurrence matrix analysis
Authors: Shi Huilan , Jia Junya , Li Dong , Wei Li , Shang Wenya , Zheng Zhenfeng 
Published: August 2017

Objective Blood oxygen level-dependent magnetic resonance imaging (BOLD MRI) is a noninvasive technique useful in patients with renal disease. The current study was performed to determine whether BOLD MRI can contribute to the diagnosis of renal pathological patterns. Methods BOLD MRI was used to obtain functional magnetic resonance parameter R2* values. Gray-level co-occurrence matrixes (GLCMs) were generated for gray-scale maps. Several GLCM parameters were calculated and used to construct algorithmic models for renal pathological patterns. Results Histopathology and BOLD MRI were used to examine 12 patients. Two GLCM parameters, including correlation and energy, revealed differences among four groups of renal pathological patterns. Four Fisher’s linear discriminant formulas were constructed using two variables, including the correlation at 45° and correlation at 90°. A cross-validation test showed that the formulas correctly predicted 28 of 36 samples, and the rate of correct prediction was 77.8%. Conclusions Differences in the texture characteristics of BOLD MRI in patients with lupus nephritis may be detected by GLCM analysis. Discriminant formulas constructed using GLCM parameters may facilitate prediction of renal pathological patterns.
Relationship of respiratory muscle strength, pulmonary function, and functional capacity with quality of life in patients with atrial fibrillation
Authors: Demir Rengin , Zeren Melih , Gurses Hulya Nilgun , Yigit Zerrin 
Published: August 2017

Objective To examine the relationship of pulmonary parameters and functional capacity with quality of life (QoL) in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). Methods Thirty-six patients with chronic AF were included in this cross-sectional study. QoL was assessed with the Medical Outcomes Survey 36-item Short Form (SF-36) and Minnesota Living with Heart Failure Questionnaire (MLHFQ). Respiratory muscle strength and pulmonary function were also measured. Functional capacity was assessed with the 6-min walk test (6MWT). The Borg CR10 Scale was used to determine the resting dyspnea and fatigue levels. Results The SF-36 physical component summary score was correlated with the maximum inspiratory pressure (r = 0.517), maximum expiratory pressure (r = 0.391), 6MWT distance (r = 0.542), resting Borg dyspnea score (r = −0.692), and resting Borg fatigue score (r = −0.727). The MLHFQ total score was correlated with the maximum inspiratory pressure (r = −0.542), maximum expiratory pressure (r = −0.384), 6MWT distance (r = −0.535), resting Borg dyspnea score (r = 0.641), and resting Borg fatigue score (r = 0.703). The resting Borg fatigue score was the significant independent predictor of the SF-36 physical component score and the MLHFQ total score. Conclusion Respiratory muscle strength, functional capacity measured with the 6MWT, and resting symptoms including dyspnea and fatigue may have an impact on QoL in patients with AF.
Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative and Breastfeeding Among WIC-Participating Infants in Los Angeles County
Authors: Nobari Tabashir Z. , Jiang Lu , Wang May C. , Whaley Shannon E. 
Published: August 2017

Background: Breastfeeding rates among low-income infants lag behind national rates. Policies such as the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI) improve breastfeeding and may benefit low-income populations such as those who participate in the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC). A recent effort exists to increase the number of Baby-Friendly designated hospitals in Los Angeles County (LAC). Research aim: This study aimed to determine whether the BFHI effort has had a beneficial effect on Baby-Friendly hospital practices in LAC hospitals and to determine if birthing hospitals’ Baby-Friendly designation status is associated with breastfeeding outcomes among WIC-participating children in LAC. Methods: Data came from the Los Angeles County WIC Survey (2008, 2011, 2014), which is conducted on a random sample of approximately 5,000 WIC families living in LAC. The prevalence of three Baby-Friendly hospital practices was examined between 2008 and 2014. Logistic regression was used to examine the association of birthing hospitals’ Baby-Friendly designation status with any breastfeeding and exclusive breastfeeding at 1, 3, and 6 months. Results: The rates of Baby-Friendly hospital practices have improved since 2008. Although no association existed with rates of any breastfeeding, being born in a hospital designated Baby-Friendly or in the process of obtaining this designation was significantly associated with an increased odds of exclusive breastfeeding at 1 and 3 months. Conclusion: The BFHI may help achieve recommended exclusive breastfeeding rates, especially for low-income populations. Additional strategies are needed to support low-income mothers in LAC with all levels of breastfeeding.
Detection of HPV16 in tissues of oral leukoplakia by polymerase chain reaction and p16 immunohistochemistry
Authors: Sushma CN , Birur N Praveen , Suresh Amritha , Keerthi G , Sunny Sumsum P , Shubhasini AR , Shubha G , Kuriakose Moni Abraham 
Published: August 2017

Background: Globally, India accounts for highest incidence for oral cancer. Potential malignant disorders precede development of oral cancers. Leukoplakia is the one of the most common potentially malignant disorders and tobacco is a known risk factor for oral cancer. Role of viruses in oral carcinogenesis is not yet clear and its association with oral cancer has been a debated topic. The present study was aimed to evaluate the presence of human papillomavirus (HPV) in oral leukoplakia using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and immunohistochemistry (IHC). Methodology: Fifty clinicopathologically confirmed oral leukoplakia cases were included in the study. Detection of HPV was done using PCR and further validated with IHC. Results: Among 50 subjects with oral leukoplakia, 43 specimens were reported as HPV positive through PCR and IHC confirmed p16 positivity in 5 specimens. Conclusion: Study showed lower a prevalence of HPV in oral leukoplakia. Whenever in doubt, combined tests would often be beneficial for the detection of HPV.
Retention in Care Services Reported by HIV Care Providers in the United States, 2013 to 2014
Authors: Craw Jason A. , Bradley Heather , Gremel Garrett , West Brady T. , Duke Christopher C. , Beer Linda , Weiser John 
Published: August 2017

Objectives: Evidence-based guidelines recommend that HIV care providers offer retention-in-care services, but data are needed to assess service provision. Methods: We surveyed a probability sample of 1234 HIV care providers to estimate the percentage of providers whose practices offered 5 recommended retention services and describe providers’ perceptions of barriers to care among patients. Results: An estimated 21% of providers’ practices offered all 5 retention services. Providers at smaller (<50 versus >400 patients), private, and non-Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program (RWHAP)-funded practices, and practices without on-site case management were significantly less likely to provide patient navigation services or do systematic monitoring of retention. Providers’ most commonly perceived barriers to care among patients were mental health (40%), substance abuse (36%), and transportation (34%) issues. Conclusion: Deficiencies in the provision of key retention services are substantial. New strategies may be needed to increase the delivery of recommended retention services, especially among private, non-RWHAP-funded, and smaller facilities.
Perioperative Testosterone Supplementation Increases Lean Mass in Healthy Men Undergoing Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Wu Brian , Lorezanza Dan , Badash Ido , Berger Max , Lane Christianne , Sum Jonathan C. , Hatch George F. , Schroeder E. Todd 
Published: August 2017

Background: Rehabilitation after repair of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is complicated by the loss of leg muscle mass and strength. Prior studies have shown that preoperative rehabilitation may improve muscle strength and postoperative outcomes. Testosterone supplementation may likewise counteract this muscle loss and potentially improve clinical outcomes. Purpose: The purpose was to investigate the effect of perioperative testosterone administration on lean mass after ACL reconstruction in men and to examine the effects of testosterone on leg strength and clinical outcome scores. It was hypothesized that testosterone would increase lean mass and leg strength and improve clinical outcome scores relative to placebo. Study Design: Randomized controlled trial; Level of evidence, 1. Methods: Male patients (N = 13) scheduled for ACL reconstruction were randomized into 2 groups: testosterone and placebo. Participants in the testosterone group received 200 mg of intramuscular testosterone weekly for 8 weeks beginning 2 weeks before surgery. Participants in the placebo group received saline following the same schedule. Both groups participated in a standard rehabilitation protocol. The primary outcome was the change in total lean body mass at 6 and 12 weeks. Secondary outcomes were extensor muscle strength, Tegner activity score, and Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score. Results: There was an increase in lean mass of a mean 2.7 ± 1.7 kg at 6 weeks postoperatively in the testosterone group compared with a decrease of a mean 0.1 ± 1.5 kg in the placebo group ( P = .01). Extensor muscle strength of the uninjured leg also increased more from baseline in the testosterone group (+20.8 ± 25.6 Nm) compared with the placebo group (–21.4 ± 36.7 Nm) at 12 weeks ( P = .04). There were no significant between-group differences in injured leg strength or clinical outcome scores. There were no negative side effects of testosterone noted. Conclusion: Perioperative testosterone supplementation increased lean mass 6 weeks after ACL reconstruction, suggesting that this treatment may help minimize the effects of muscle atrophy associated with ACL injuries and repair. This study was not powered to detect differences in strength or clinical outcome scores to assess the incidence of testosterone-related adverse events. Clinical Relevance: Supraphysiological testosterone supplementation may be a useful adjunct therapy for counteracting muscle atrophy after ACL reconstruction. Further investigation is necessary to determine the safety profile and effects of perioperative testosterone administration on leg strength and clinical outcomes after surgery. Registration: NCT01595581 ( ClinicalTrials.gov ).
The choice between surgical scrubbing and sterile covering before or after induction of anaesthesia: A prospective study
Authors: Sellbrandt Irene , Brattwall Metha , Jildenstål Pether , Warrén Stomberg Margareta , Jakobsson Jan G. 
Published: August 2017

Background: Day surgery is increasing, and safe and effective logistics are sought. One part of the in-theatre logistics commonly discussed is whether surgical scrub and sterile covering should be done before or after induction of anaesthesia. The aim of the present study was to compare the impact of surgical scrub and sterile covering before vs. after the induction of anaesthesia in male patients scheduled for open hernia repair. Methods: This is a prospective randomised study. Sixty ASA 1-3 patients scheduled for open hernia repair were randomised to surgical scrub and sterile covering before or after induction of anaesthesia; group “awake” and “anaesthetised”. Need for vasoactive medication during anaesthesia was primary study objective. Duration of anaesthesia and surgery, theatre time, recovery room stay and time to discharge, patients and theatre nurses experiences and willingness to have the same logistics on further potential surgeries, by a questionnaire provided before discharge was also assessed. Results: The duration of anaesthesia was shorter and doses of propofol and remifentanil were reduced by 10 and 13%, respectively, in the awake group. We found still no difference in the need for vasoactive medication during anaesthesia Time in recovery area was significantly reduced in the awake group 39 (SD 15) vs. 48 SD 16) (p<0.05), but time to discharge was not different. There was further no difference in the patients’ assessment of quality of care, and only one patient in the awake group would prefer to be anaesthetised on a future procedure. All nurses found pre-anaesthesia scrubbing acceptable as routine. Conclusion: Surgical scrub and sterile covering before the induction of anaesthesia can be done safely and without jeopardising patients’ quality of care and possibly improve perioperative logistics. Further studies are warranted assessing impact of awake scrubbing and sterile covering on quality and efficacy of perioperative care.
A qualitative study exploring the value of a catheter passport
Authors: Jaeger Melanie De , Fox Fiona , Cooney Geraldine , Robinson Jacqueline 
Published: August 2017

Many patients leaving hospital with a catheter do not have sufficient information to self-care and can experience physical and psychological difficulties. Aim: This study aimed to explore how a patient-held catheter passport affects the experiences of patients leaving hospital with a urethral catheter, the hospital nurses who discharge them and the community nurses who provide ongoing care for them. Method: Qualitative methods used included interviews, focus groups and questionnaires, and thematic analysis. Findings: Three major themes were reported—informing patients, informing nurses; improving catheter care, promoting self-management; and supporting transition. Conclusion: The catheter passport can bridge the existing information gap, improve care, promote self-care and help patients adjust to their catheter, especially if complemented by ongoing input from a nurse or other health professional.
A tool for assessing the quality of nursing handovers: a validation study
Authors: Ferrara Paolo , Terzoni Stefano , Davì Salvatore , Bisesti Alberto , Destrebecq Anne 
Published: August 2017

Aim: Handover, in particular between two shifts, is a crucial aspect of nursing for patient safety, aimed at ensuring continuity of care. During this process, several factors can affect quality of care and cause errors. This study aimed to assess quality of handovers, by validating the Handoff CEX-Italian scale. Method: The scale was translated from English into Italian and the content validity index was calculated and internal consistency assessed. The scale was used in several units of the San Paolo Teaching Hospital in Milan, Italy. Results: A total of 48 reports were assessed (192 evaluations). The median score was 6, interquartile range (IQR) [5;7] and was not influenced by specific (p=0.21) or overall working experience (p=0.13). The domains showing the lowest median values (median=6, IQR [4;8]) were context, communication, and organisation. Night to morning handovers obtained the lowest scores. CVI-S was 0.96, Cronbach's alpha was 0.79. Discussion: The Handoff CEX-Italian scale is valid and reliable and it can be used to assess the quality of nurse handovers.