bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Impact of cancer diagnoses on the outcomes of patients with COVID-19: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Han Shuting , Zhuang Qingyuan , Chiang Jianbang , Tan Sze Huey , Chua Gail Wan Ying , Xie Conghua , Chua Melvin L K , Soon Yu Yang , Yang Valerie Shiwen 
Published: February 2022

BackgroundThe COVID-19 has caused significant mortality and morbidity across the globe. Patients with cancer are especially vulnerable given their immunocompromised state. We aimed to determine the proportion of COVID-19 patients with cancer, their severity and mortality outcomes through a systematic review and meta-analysis (MA).MethodsSystematic review was performed through online databases, PubMed, Medline and Google Scholar, with keywords listed in the Methods section (1 November 2019–31 December 2020). Studies with clinical outcomes of at least 10 COVID-19 patients and at least one with a diagnosis of cancer were included. The studies for MA were assessed with PRISMA guidelines and appraised with Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. The data were pooled using a random-effects model using STATA software. The main outcomes were planned before data collection, including proportion of patients with cancer among COVID-19 populations, relative risk (RR) of severe outcomes and death of patients with cancer compared with general COVID-19 patients.ResultsWe identified 57 case series (63 413 patients), with 230 patients with cancer with individual patient data (IPD). We found that the pooled proportion of cancer among COVID-19 patients was 0.04 (95% CI 0.03 to 0.05, I2=97.69%, p<0.001). The pooled RR of death was 1.44 (95% CI 1.19 to 1.76) between patients with cancer and the general population with COVID-19 infection. The pooled RR of severe outcome was 1.49 (95% CI 1.18 to 1.87) between cancer and general COVID-19 patients. The presence of lung cancer and stage IV cancer did not result in significantly increased RR of severe outcome. Among the available IPD, only age and gender were associated with severe outcomes.ConclusionPatients with cancer were at a higher risk of severe and death outcomes from COVID-19 infection as compared with general COVID-19 populations. Limitations of this study include publication bias. A collaborative effort is required for a more complete database.
Determinants of HIV infection among children born from mothers on prevention of mother to child transmission programme of HIV in southern Ethiopia: a case–control study
Authors: Hussen Rehima , Zenebe Wagaye Alemu , Mamo Tizalegn Tesfaye , Shaka Mohammed Feyisso 
Published: February 2022

ObjectiveThis study was aimed to identify determinants of HIV infection among children born from mothers on the prevention of mother to child transmission (PMTCT) programme in Southern Ethiopia. It was designed to explore the main contributors to the considerable transmission rate of HIV from mother to child.Setting and designA multicentre facility-based unmatched case–control study was conducted using 27 health facilities providing PMTCT service in Southern Ethiopia.ParticipantsOut of 307 (62 cases and 245 controls) expected to participate in this study, a total of 290 mother–child pairs of 58 cases and 232 controls have completed the interview. Cases were children born to mothers on PMTCT programme and with DNA PCR or antibody HIV positive test result at ≤24 months of age. Controls were children born to mothers on PMTCT programme and with DNA PCR or antibody HIV negative test result at ≤24 months of age.ResultData were collected from the mother and record and analysed using SPSS V.20. Logistic regression analysis was done for statistical association and the significance of association was declared at a p value of <0.05. Rural residence (adjusted OR (AOR): 4.15, 95% CI: (1.57 to 10.97)), knowing serostatus during current pregnancy (AOR: 5.11, 95% CI: (1.33 to 19.69)), home delivery (AOR: 6.00, 95% CI: (2.310 to 15.593)), poor partner involvement (AOR: 5.95, 95% CI: 1.91 to 18.53)), poor adherence, late enrolment of the child for ARV prophylaxis (AOR: 4.89, 95% CI: 1.34 to 17.88)), mixed breastfeeding practice (AOR: 10.36, 95% CI: (3.10 to 34.60)) and failure to be on cotrimoxazole therapy (AOR: 7.56, 95% CI: 2.07 to 27.61)) were factors significantly associated with MTCT.ConclusionThe finding implies that more needs to be done on rural residents, strengthening screening for HIV before pregnancy, encouraging male involvement, early enrolment of child for ARV prophylaxis, avoiding mixed breast feeding and putting newborn on cotrimoxazole therapy.
Transformation of identity in substance use as a pathway to recovery and the potential of treatment for hepatitis C: a systematic review protocol
Authors: Donaldson Sarah R , Radley Andrew , Dillon John F 
Published: February 2022

IntroductionHepatitis C virus (HCV) is a strongly stigmatised disease as it is framed within the context of injecting substance use. HCV provides the identity of ‘dirty’ or ‘junky’, with perceptions by others being beyond the control of the individual. People who experience problematic substance use are often viewed as being outside acceptable social behaviours, thus viewed as having tainted identities or second-class citizens. It is suggested that to recover from substance use, people should move towards social networks where substance use is not the norm and there is greater recovery support. The social identity model of recovery advocates that the mechanism to do this is by developing a new identity. It is unclear what catalysts provide this change in identity. This systematic review aims to describe actions, interventions and treatments that provide the opportunity for new identities and considers evidence that supports the hypothesis that curing HCV with direct acting antivirals may provide this opportunity.Methods and analysisMethods are informed by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analysis statement. Seven electronic peer-reviewed and four grey literature sources were identified and preliminary searches have been conducted. The inclusion and exclusion criteria are broad to capture activities that result in a change in identity, recovery from substance use, quality of life, life satisfaction or the opportunity for the individual to reclaim their place in society (citizenship). Qualitative and quantitative literature are eligible. Papers will be assessed against standardised criteria and checked independently and in duplicate. A narrative synthesis of the findings will be reported, structured around intervention type, population context and outcomes.Ethics and disseminationThis systematic review will be based on studies that have already been conducted and therefore no ethical approvals are required. The resulting findings will be submitted to an international peer-reviewed journal and disseminated at relevant research conferences.PROSPERO registration numberCRD42020209447.
Conceptualising centres of excellence: a scoping review of global evidence
Authors: Manyazewal Tsegahun , Woldeamanuel Yimtubezinash , Oppenheim Claire , Hailu Asrat , Giday Mirutse , Medhin Girmay , Belete Anteneh , Yimer Getnet , Collins Asha , Makonnen Eyasu , Fekadu Abebaw 
Published: February 2022

ObjectiveGlobally, interest in excellence has grown exponentially, with public and private institutions shifting their attention from meeting targets to achieving excellence. Centres of Excellence (CoEs) are standing at the forefront of healthcare, research and innovations responding to the world’s most complex problems. However, their potential is hindered by conceptual ambiguity. We conducted a global synthesis of the evidence to conceptualise CoEs.DesignScoping review, following Arksey and O’Malley’s framework and methodological enhancement by Levac et al and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews.Data sourcesPubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, Google Scholar and the Google engine until 1 January 2021.EligibilityArticles that describe CoE as the main theme.ResultsThe search resulted in 52 161 potential publications, with 78 articles met the eligibility criteria. The 78 articles were from 33 countries, of which 35 were from the USA, 3 each from Nigeria, South Africa, Spain and India, and 2 each from Ethiopia, Canada, Russia, Colombia, Sweden, Greece and Peru. The rest 17 were from various countries. The articles involved six thematic areas—healthcare, education, research, industry, information technology and general concepts on CoE. The analysis documented success stories of using the brand ‘CoE’—an inﬂuential brand to stimulate best practices. We identified 12 essential foundations of CoE—specialised expertise; infrastructure; innovation; high-impact research; quality service; accreditation or standards; leadership; organisational structure; strategy; collaboration and partnership; sustainable funding or financial mechanisms; and entrepreneurship.ConclusionsCoEs have significant scientific, political, economic and social impacts. However, there are inconsistent use and self-designation of the brand without approval by an independent, external process of evaluation and with high ambiguity between ‘CoEs’ and the ordinary ‘institutions’ or ‘centres’. A comprehensive framework is needed to guide and inspire an institution as a CoE and to help government and funding institutions shape and oversee CoEs.
Stakeholders’ views of supporting asthma management in schools with a school-based asthma programme for primary school children: a qualitative study in Malaysia
Authors: Ramdzan Siti Nurkamilla , Khoo Ee Ming , Liew Su May , Cunningham Steve , Pinnock Hilary 
Published: February 2022

ObjectiveThe WHO Global School Health Initiative aimed to improve child and community health through health promotion programmes in schools, though most focus on preventing communicable disease. Despite WHO recommendations, no asthma programme is included in the Malaysian national school health service guideline. Therefore, we aimed to explore the views of school staff, healthcare professionals and policy-makers about the challenges of managing asthma in schools and the potential of a school asthma programme for primary school children.DesignA focus group and individual interview qualitative study using purposive sampling of participants to obtain diverse views. Data collection was guided by piloted semistructured topic guides. The focus groups and interviews were audiorecorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed using inductive thematic analysis. We completed data collection once data saturation was reached.SettingStakeholders in education and health sectors in Malaysia.ParticipantsFifty-two participants (40 school staff, 9 healthcare professionals and 3 policy-makers) contributed to nine focus groups and eleven individual interviews.ResultsSchool staff had limited awareness of asthma and what to do in emergencies. There was no guidance on asthma management in government schools, and teachers were unclear about their role in school children’s health. These uncertainties led to delays in the treatment of asthma symptoms/attacks, and suggestions that an asthma education programme and a school plan would improve asthma care. Perceived challenges in conducting school health programmes included a busy school schedule and poor parental participation. A tailored asthma programme in partnerships with schools could facilitate the programme’s adoption and implementation.ConclusionsIdentifying and addressing issues and challenges specific to the school and wider community could facilitate the delivery of a school asthma programme in line with the WHO School Health Initiative. Clarity over national policy on the roles and responsibilities of school staff could support implementation and guide appropriate and prompt response to asthma emergencies in schools.
Effect of sedation with inhaled anaesthetics on cognitive and psychiatric outcomes in critically ill adults: a systematic review protocol
Authors: Cuninghame Sean , Gorsky Kevin , Francoeur Conall , Withington Davinia , Burry Lisa , Jerath Angela , Slessarev Marat 
Published: February 2022

IntroductionThe COVID-19 pandemic has renewed interest in the use of inhaled anaesthetics for sedation of ventilated critically ill patients. Preliminary data show that inhaled anaesthetics reduce lung inflammation, time to extubation and intensive care unit length of stay compared with intravenous sedatives. However, the impact of inhaled anaesthetics on cognitive and psychiatric outcomes is not well described in this setting. Randomised controlled trials are underway to establish if inhaled anaesthetics affect these and other patient and health system outcomes. Our aim is to summarise the known effects of inhaled sedatives on cognitive and psychiatric outcomes.Methods and analysisIn this systematic review, we will use MEDLINE, EMBASE, and PsycINFO to identify studies from 1970 to 2021 that assessed cognitive and psychiatric outcomes in critically ill adult patients sedated with inhaled anaesthetics. We will include case series, observational and cohort studies and randomised controlled trials. We will exclude case studies due to the heterogeneity of reporting in these studies. For randomised controlled trials comparing inhaled to intravenous sedation, we will report cognitive and psychiatric outcomes for both study arms. Studies will be selected based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses checklist. Data will be extracted using a standardised data extraction tool by two independent reviewers. Studies will be assessed for bias using the Cochrane risk of bias tool for randomised controlled trials, or the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale for cohort and case–control studies. Findings will be reported according to outcome and descriptive statistics will be used to illustrate findings in a narrative fashion.Ethics and disseminationThe systematic review uses published data and therefore does not require ethics approval. Results will be disseminated via publication in peer-reviewed journals and presentation at conferences related to the field.PROSPERO registration numberCRD42021236455.
Atrial fibrillation (AF) pilot screening programme in primary care in Ireland: an implementation study protocol
Authors: Callanan Aileen , Quinlan Diarmuid , O'Sullivan Susanne , Bradley Colin P , Kearney Patricia M , Murphy Aileen , Buckley Claire Mary 
Published: February 2022

IntroductionAtrial fibrillation (AF) is a major risk factor for stroke. There is a fivefold increase in stroke risk in the presence of AF. The irregular beating of the heart enables blood stasis which allows clots to form. These can migrate to the brain causing a stroke. AF is common and its incidence increases with age. AF is often asymptomatic and early detection enables effective preventive treatment reducing stroke risk by up to two-thirds.Stroke contributes significantly to morbidity and mortality globally. In Ireland, it is the leading cause of acquired disability and second leading cause of death. The cost associated with stroke is significant. Stroke risk increases with age and is a public health priority.Internationally, there is consensus among experts that AF screening is valuable. In Ireland, the National Cardiovascular Policy recommended establishing a screening programme. However, there are many ways to screen for AF including pulse palpation, mobile ECG devices, 12-lead ECG and personal health monitoring devices.This study aims to investigate the acceptability, feasibility and impact of AF screening in primary care using a handheld mobile ECG device.Methods and analysisGeneral practitioners (GPs) and practice nurses in the South of Ireland will opportunistically screen patients aged ≥65 years for AF at routine consultation using a handheld one-lead ECG device, KardiaMobile. This study will screen up to 4000 patients. Blood pressure and smoking status will be checked concurrently. A mixed-method evaluation will be undertaken including a partial economic evaluation. Anonymised data will be collected from participating practices and qualitative interviews will be conducted with GP, nurse and patient participants.Ethics and disseminationEthical approval has been granted by the Clinical Research Ethics Committee in University College Cork. Dissemination will involve publication in peer-reviewed journals and presentation at national and international conferences.
Co-development and piloting of a menstrual, sexual and reproductive health intervention to improve social and psychological outcomes among secondary schoolgirls in Northern Tanzania: the PASS MHW study protocol
Authors: Okello Elialilia , Rubli Jennifer , Torondel Belen , Makata Kenneth , Ayieko Philip , Kapiga Saidi , Greco Giulia , Renju Jenny 
Published: February 2022

IntroductionPoor menstrual health negatively impacts psychosocial and physical health, and subsequently leads to poor school outcomes, but the effort to improve adolescent girls’ menstrual health in Tanzania remains fragmented. This study aimed to develop and pilot a scalable, comprehensive menstrual, sexual and reproductive health (MSRH) intervention within Tanzanian government structures to improve MSRH practices and perceptions and the overall school climate to ensure the psychosocial well-being and optimal school participation and performance among secondary schoolgirls.Methods and analysisThis study will be conducted in three phases. Phase I will be a formative research to iteratively refine an existing puberty and menstrual health intervention, and to collaboratively design strategies to embed the intervention into government structures thereby promoting scalability. In Phase II, we will pilot and evaluate the refined intervention and implementation strategies using a mixed-methods design to assess (1) feasibility, acceptability and sustainability; and (2) effect on MSRH practices and perceptions and the overall school climate. In Phase III, we will synthesise the research findings in collaboration with the national, regional and district government and non-government stakeholders.Ethics and disseminationThis pilot study will provide evidence-based recommendations for a comprehensive, complex menstrual and puberty intervention within secondary schools in Tanzania that can be further tested for broader effectiveness across a larger population. Papers, policy briefs and both regional/international conference presentations are planned to reach academic and non-academic groups. Protocol, tools and consent have been reviewed and approved by the independent Tanzanian national ethics committee (NIMR/HQ/R.8a/Vol.IX/3647) and the LSHTM Observational/Interventions Research Ethics Committee (LSHTM Ethics Ref: 22854). The project will involve adolescents, and procedures will be followed to ensure that we obtain permission and consent of parents and guardians and assent from all adolescents below 18 years of age that will be enrolled in the study.
Effects of actual and imagined music-cued gait training on motor functioning and brain activity in people with multiple sclerosis: protocol of a randomised parallel multicentre trial
Authors: Seebacher Barbara , Helmlinger Birgit , Pinter Daniela , Ehling Rainer , Hegen Harald , Ropele Stefan , Reishofer Gernot , Enzinger Christian , Brenneis Christian , Deisenhammer Florian 
Published: February 2022

IntroductionMotor imagery (MI) refers to the mental rehearsal of a physical action without muscular activity. Our previous studies showed that MI combined with rhythmic-auditory cues improved walking, fatigue and quality of life (QoL) in people with multiple sclerosis (pwMS). Largest improvements were seen after music and verbally cued MI. It is unclear whether actual cued gait training achieves similar effects on walking as cued MI in pwMS. Furthermore, in pwMS it is unknown whether any of these interventions leads to changes in brain activation. The purpose of this study is therefore to compare the effects of imagined and actual cued gait training and a combination thereof on walking, brain activation patterns, fatigue, cognitive and emotional functioning in pwMS.Methods and analysisA prospective double-blind randomised parallel multicentre trial will be conducted in 132 pwMS with mild to moderate disability. Randomised into three groups, participants will receive music, metronome and verbal cueing, plus MI of walking (1), MI combined with actual gait training (2) or actual gait training (3) for 30 min, 4× per week for 4 weeks. Supported by weekly phone calls, participants will practise at home, guided by recorded instructions. Primary endpoints will be walking speed (Timed 25-Foot Walk) and distance (2 min Walk Test). Secondary endpoints will be brain activation patterns, fatigue, QoL, MI ability, anxiety, depression, cognitive functioning, music-induced motivation-to-move, pleasure, arousal and self-efficacy. Data will be collected at baseline, postintervention and 3-month follow-up. MRI reference values will be generated using 15 matched healthy controls.Ethics and disseminationThis study follows the Standard Protocol Items: Recommendations for Interventional Trials-PRO Extension. Ethical approval was received from the Ethics Committees of the Medical Universities of Innsbruck (1347/2020) and Graz (33-056 ex 20/21), Austria. Results will be disseminated via national and international conferences and published in peer-reviewed journals.Trial registration numberDRKS00023978.
Feasibility of implementing the advanced HIV disease care package as part of community-based HIV/TB activities: a mixed-methods study protocol
Authors: Gils Tinne , Lynen Lutgarde , Muhairwe Josephine , Mashaete Kamele , Lejone Thabo Ishmael , Joseph Philip , Ngubane Thulani , Keter Alfred Kipyegon , Reither Klaus , van Heerden Alastair 
Published: February 2022

IntroductionAlthough the advanced HIV disease (AHD) care package reduces morbidity and mortality in people with AHD (defined in people living with HIV as WHO stage 3 or 4, CD4 count <200 cells/µL or age <5 years), it is barely implemented in many countries. A novel point-of-care CD4 test rapidly identifies AHD. We evaluate the feasibility of implementing the AHD care package as part of community-based HIV/tuberculosis services.Methods and analysisThis two-phased study is guided by the Medical Research Council framework for evaluation of complex interventions. Stage 1 is a stakeholder consultation to define tools and indicators to assess feasibility of the AHD care package. Stage 2 is the implementation of the AHD care package during a facility-based tuberculosis diagnostic accuracy study in high-burden HIV/tuberculosis settings. Consenting adults with tuberculosis symptoms in two sites in Lesotho and South Africa are eligible for inclusion. HIV-positive participants are included in the feasibility study and are offered a CD4 test, a tuberculosis-lipoarabinomannan assay and those with CD4 count of ≤200 cells/µL a cryptococcal antigen lateral flow assay. Participants are referred for clinical management following national guidelines. The evaluation includes group discussions, participant observation (qualitative strand) and a semistructured questionnaire to assess acceptability among implementers. The quantitative strand also evaluates process compliance (process rating and process cascade) and early outcomes (vital and treatment status after twelve weeks). Thematic content analysis, descriptive statistics and data triangulation will be performed.Ethics and disseminationThe National Health Research and Ethics Committee, Lesotho, the Human Sciences Research Council Research Ethics Committee and Provincial Department of Health, South Africa and the Ethikkommission Nordwest- und Zentralschweiz, Switzerland, approved the protocol. Dissemination will happen locally and internationally at scientific conferences and in peer-reviewed journals.Trial registration numberNCT04666311.