bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Technique failure in peritoneal dialysis: Modifiable causes and patient-specific risk factors
Authors: Bonenkamp Anna A , van Eck van der Sluijs Anita , Dekker Friedo W , Struijk Dirk G , de Fijter Carola WH , Vermeeren Yolande M , van Ittersum Frans J , Verhaar Marianne C , van Jaarsveld Brigit C , Abrahams Alferso C 
Published: February 2022

Background: Technique survival is a core outcome for peritoneal dialysis (PD), according to Standardized Outcomes in Nephrology-Peritoneal Dialysis. This study aimed to identify modifiable causes and risk factors of technique failure in a large Dutch cohort using standardised definitions. Methods: Patients who participated in the retrospective Dutch nOcturnal and hoME dialysis Study To Improve Clinical Outcomes cohort study and started PD between 2012 and 2016 were included and followed until 1 January 2017. The primary outcome was technique failure, defined as transfer to in-centre haemodialysis for ≥ 30 days or death. Death-censored technique failure was analysed as secondary outcome. Cox regression models and competing risk models were used to assess the association between potential risk factors and technique failure. Results: A total of 695 patients were included, of whom 318 experienced technique failure during follow-up. Technique failure rate in the first year was 29%, while the death-censored technique failure rate was 23%. Infections were the most common modifiable cause for technique failure, accounting for 20% of all causes during the entire follow-up. Leakage and catheter problems were important causes within the first 6 months of PD treatment (both accounting for 15%). APD use was associated with a lower risk of technique failure (hazard ratio 0.66, 95% confidence interval 0.53–0.83). Conclusion: Infections, leakage and catheter problems were important modifiable causes for technique failure. As the first-year death-censored technique failure rate remains high, future studies should focus on infection prevention and catheter access to improve technique survival.
New fluorinated polyimides based on 1,2-bis(4-aminophenyl)-4,5-bis(4-trifluoromethylphenyl)-1H-imidazole
Authors: Chen Wen-Yue , Huang Zhi-Hui , Liu Xiao-Ling , Liu Yong-Jun , Zhao Jing-Wei , Sheng Shou-Ri 
Published: February 2022

A new aromatic unsymmetrical diamine containing imidazolyl and trifluoromethyl groups, 1,2-bis(4-aminophenyl)-4,5-bis(4-trifluoromethylphenyl)-1H-imidazole was synthesized. A series of novel fluorinated polyimides (PIs) were prepared by polycondensation of this diamine monomer with various aromatic dianhydrides via one-step process. The resulting PIs bearing inherent viscosities of 0.45–0.61 dL/g were amorphous and readily soluble in organic polar solvents such as NMP, DMF, DMAc, THF, and CHCl3. These new PIs exhibited good thermal stability with 10% weight loss temperatures of 530–560°C and char yields of 61–65% at 800°C in nitrogen, as well as good flame retardancy with limited oxygen index value of 40.6–42.8, and outstanding hydrophobicity with the contact angle of 85.2–93.5°. Meanwhile, all the obtained PIs exhibited low water uptake of 0.30–0.53%, strong UV-vis absorption in the range of 267–310 nm in DMF solution, and their films presented high optical transparency with a cut-off wavelength in the 355–392 nm range. Except for the PI film derived from pyromellitic dianhydride, the other PI films had the tensile strength in the range of 53.2–74.1 MPa, elongation at breakage of 6–15%, and tensile modulus of 1.0–1.5 GPa, respectively.
Preparation of a novel superabsorbent hydrogel based on polyacrylic acid/shellac using gamma irradiation for adsorption removal of malachite green dye
Authors: Elhady Mohamed A , Mousaa Issa M , Attia Rehab M 
Published: February 2022

The objective of this study is to prepare a super absorbent hydrogel based on polyacrylic acid and an environmentally friendly material such as shellac to remove malachite green dye from aqueous solution using gamma radiation. The adsorption of malachite green (MG) dyes using polyacrylic acid (PAA)/shellac (SH) hydrogels was studied. These hydrogels were prepared by mixing aqueous solutions of PAA and SH at differing molecular ratios (10%, 20%, and 30% SH content in the final reaction mixture) and varying doses of gamma radiation (10–50 kGy). The water absorption by the PAA/SH hydrogels prepared at a 30-kGy radiation dose increased with an increase in the SH content. The removal of the MG dyes from an aqueous solution using PAA and PAA/SH hydrogels was investigated at different values for selected parameters, such as pH, contact time, SH concentration, and adsorbent dosage. The highest MG adsorption percentage (95.5%) was obtained for the PAA/SH hydrogel with the highest SH content (30%). As the adsorbent dosage increased, the dye adsorption capacity increased, accordingly. The combination of SH and gamma radiation caused the PAA to undergo structural changes verified by X-ray diffraction and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Scanning electron microscopy was employed to investigate the morphology of the PAA/SH hydrogel and revealed that the SH belonging to the PAA matrixes exhibited a homogeneous dispersion. The thermal stability of the hydrogels was investigated by thermogravimetric analysis. The amount of dye adsorbed by the PAA/SH hydrogel was calculated by subtraction based on the ultraviolet–visible (UV–VIS) spectroscopy determination of the concentration of leftover dye in solution using a UV–VIS spectrophotometer.
Perceptions of PGY-2 Oncology Programs on Financial Toxicity Education and Preparedness
Authors: Gania Gaines Kyna , Tadros Monica , Fernandez Benny , Shokoya Aisha , Chow Nicholas 
Published: February 2022

Cancer patients experience a rising monetary burden due to increased direct and in-direct costs associated with cancer treatment. This as a result has an adverse effect on the financial well-being of a cancer patient, also known as financial toxicity. Currently, there is a lack of literature surrounding the implementation of financial toxicity in post-graduate oncology residency training for pharmacists. The objective of this study was to describe the perceptions of PGY-2 oncology pharmacy residents and residency program directors on the incorporation of financial toxicity within their training programs and to assess self-perceptions of their level of abilities and experience managing financial toxicity for patients. A qualitative RedCap electronic survey was emailed in December 2020 to resident and directors of PGY-2 oncology programs in the United States. Out of 40 respondents, 64% of residency program directors were highly comfortable with the concept of financial toxicity, while 73% of pharmacy residents were uncomfortable with the concept of financial toxicity within their program. Furthermore, a majority of residents were either uncomfortable or highly uncomfortable managing financial toxicity for patients. In addition, the most commonly utilized method of incorporating the concept of financial toxicity in all programs was through specialty pharmacy and patient assistance programs (PAPs); residents also preferred these methods along with guest speakers to provide this training. Financial toxicity concepts should be considered as an educational standard and incorporated through unique methods of education. We suggest introducing the concept through guest speakers, followed by practical applications integrated in specialty pharmacies and PAPs.
Bandage contact lens soaked in 0.1% diclofenac to relieve early postoperative pain and foreign body sensation after transepithelial photorefractive keratectomy
Authors: Wang Yuan , Shen Fei , Sun Weiyang , Wang Qinmei , Zhao Xiangyang 
Published: February 2022

Purpose To study the effects of a bandage contact lens immersed in 0.1% diclofenac on pain management for patients undergoing transepithelial photorefractive keratectomy (TPRK). Methods In a prospective, comparative, contralateral, randomized, double-masked study, we assessed a total of 51 patients. The eyes of each patient were randomly divided into two groups. After TPRK, a normal soft bandage contact lens was placed on one eye as the control group, and a bandage contact lens soaked in diclofenac was placed on the other eye as the experimental group. When the bandage contact lens was not removed, postoperative pain and other ocular discomforts were compared at 2, 18, and 24 h and 2, 3, 4, and 5 postoperative days. Patients were then examined after 1 month. Visual acuity and subepithelial haze were also evaluated. Results The mean pain score was 2.69 ± 1.96 in the control group, which was significantly higher than that in the experimental group, which received the diclofenac-soaked bandage contact lens at 2 postoperative hours. The statistical difference between the two groups’ mean foreign body sensation at 2 postoperative hours was detected (p = 0.035). No differences were detected between the two groups’ subepithelial haze scores or visual acuity. Conclusion A bandage contact lens soaked in 0.1% diclofenac solution can be used as a potential drug-delivery system to relieve early postoperative pain and foreign body sensation after TPRK.
Prenatal and early childhood predictors of intelligence quotient (IQ) in 7-year-old Danish children from the Odense Child Cohort
Authors: Beck Iben H. , Bilenberg Niels , Davidsen Kirstine A. , Rasmussen Anne A. , Boye Henriette , Jensen Tina K. 
Published: February 2022

Background: Cognitive development measured as intelligence quotient can predict socioeconomic markers in adulthood. It is therefore of interest to determine predictors of childhood intelligence quotient. Aim: To assess intelligence quotient scores based on standardised Danish age-appropriate scores and to evaluate potential predictors of intelligence quotient. Materials: At 7 years of age children in the Odense Child Cohort completed an abbreviated version of the Wechsler intelligence scale for children 5th edition consisting of four subtests (vocabulary, similarities, block design and matrix reasoning) from which the full scale intelligence quotient and verbal comprehension index were estimated. Potential predictors from pregnancy through childhood were collected from questionnaires, birth records and clinical examinations. Methods: Intelligence quotient scores were investigated through descriptive statistics and linear regression models. Results: The mean full scale intelligence quotient among 1375 children was 99.1 (95% confidence interval 98.5; 99.8) points. Higher full scale intelligence quotient scores were observed in girls 100.8 (95% confidence interval 100.0; 101.8) compared to boys 97.6 (96.7; 98.4), and in children of mothers with high and intermediate education 101.7 (100.4; 103.1) and 99.6 (98.7; 100.5), respectively, compared to low education 96.1 (94.9; 97.3). In linear regression analyses, longer maternal education and child sex (girls) remained strong predictors of intelligence quotient at age 7 years. In addition, paternal education, child head circumference and longer duration of breastfeeding were associated with higher intelligence quotient, whereas maternal overweight and obesity before pregnancy was associated with lower intelligence quotient. Conclusions: Mean intelligence quotient scores were comparable to the standardised mean intelligence quotient of 100 point of Danish peers. It is important to follow up these children to determine which predictors persist into adulthood.
Risk of obstructive sleep apnea among taxi–motorbike drivers in Parakou city in West Africa and associated factors with road traffic accidents
Authors: Ade Serge , Flatin Marius C , Wachinou Prudence A , Badirou Abdel-Samad , Cissé Ibrahim Mama , Adjobimey Mênonli , Agodokpessi Gildas , Harries Anthony D 
Published: February 2022

Objectives Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is an underdiagnosed chronic respiratory disease, causing excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS) and road traffic accidents (RTA). This study aimed to determine the risk of OSA among taxi–motorbike drivers (TMD) and factors associated with RTA in Parakou, Benin. Methods A cross-sectional comparative study was carried out between July and September 2020, including 225 TMD and 450 motorbike drivers other than TMD (non-TMD). A multiple logistic regression was then performed to determine factors associated with RTA. Results The mean age of participants was 38.2 ± 10.2 and 36.6 ±10.9 years, respectively, for TMD and non-TMD ( p = .048). The average daily working time was 10.7 ± 2.3H and 9.1±3.5H, respectively, for TMD and non-TMD ( p < .001). Average sleeping time was comparable in both groups (7.5±1.4H vs 7.4±1.4H; p = .415). TMD significantly more complained of non-restorative sleep (38.7% vs 18.4%; p < .001) but less of EDS (20.0% vs 28.7%; p = .015). Abdominal obesity predominated in TMD (13.8% vs 4.4%; p < .001). An increased risk of OSA (NoSAS score ≥8) was diagnosed in 25.8% TMD and 26.7% non-TMD ( p = .805). Overall, 25.8% of TMD and 18.4% of non-TMD ( p = .027) reported at least one RTA in the last 12 months. After adjusted analysis, the unique factor associated with RTA was a daily sleeping pills consumption (aOR=2.2; 95%CI = 1.2–3.8; p = .006). Conclusion There is need to improve systematic screening and diagnosis of OSA in both TMD and non-TMD and reinforce the regulation and consumption of sleeping pills.
An assessment of infection prevention and control preparedness of healthcare facilities in Nigeria in the early phase of the COVID-19 pandemic (February–May 2020)
Authors: Joy Okwor Tochi , Gatua Josephine , Umeokonkwo Chukwuma David , Abah Stephen , Ike Ifeanyi Franklin , Ogunniyi Abiodun , Ipadeola Oladipupo , Attah Timothy , Assad Hassan , Dooga Jerome , Olayinka Adebola , Abubakar Jafiya , Oladejo John , Aderinola Olaolu , Eneh Chibuzo , Ilori Elsie , Ibekwe Priscilla , Ochu Chinwe , Ihekweazu Chikwe 
Published: February 2022

Background Infection prevention and control (IPC) activities play a large role in preventing the transmission of SARS-CoV-2 in healthcare settings. This study describes the state of IPC preparedness within health facilities in Nigeria during the early phase of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. Methods We carried out a cross sectional study of health facilities across Nigeria using a COVID-19 IPC checklist adapted from the U.S Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The IPC aspects assessed were the existence of IPC committee and teams with terms of reference and workplans, IPC training, availability of personal protective equipment and having systems in place for screening, isolation and notification of COVID-19 patients. Existence of the assessed aspects was regarded as preparedness in that aspect. Results In total, 461 health facilities comprising, 350 (75.9%) private and 111 (24.1%) public health facilities participated. Only 19 (4.1%) health facilities were COVID-19 treatment centres with 68% of these being public health facilities. Public health facilities were better prepared in the areas of IPC programme with 69.7% of them having an IPC focal point versus 32.3% of private facilities. More public facilities (59.6%) had an IPC workplan versus 26.8% of private facilities. Neither the public nor the private facilities were adequately prepared for triaging, screening, and notifying suspected cases, as well as having trained staff and equipment to implement triaging. Conclusions The results highlight the need for government, organisations and policymakers to establish conducive IPC structures to reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission in healthcare settings.
Complications of Locked Plating for Proximal Humeral Fractures in Active Patients in a Level One Trauma Center
Authors: Marsalli Michael , De La Paz Joaquín , Córdova Carlos , Fritis Diego , Errázuriz Juan De Dios 
Published: February 2022

Background The incidence of complications associated with locked plating of proximal humerus fractures (PHF) has been reported in up to 40% of surgeries. This study aimed to analyze the incidence and risk factors of complications and re-intervention associated with locked plating of PHF in a an young active working population. Methods This retrospective cohort study included patients indicated for locked plating of displaced PHF at a dedicated workers’ accident trauma center. The variables analyzed were patient comorbidities, fracture characteristics, and immediate radiologic surgical outcomes. Postoperative complications and risk factors were determined. Results A total of 127 patients with a median follow-up of 31 months and a median age of 52 years were included. The complication and reintervention rates were 13.4% and 12.6%, respectively. The main cause of reintervention was post-traumatic stiffness. The incidence of other complications was 4% screw protrusion, 1.6% avascular necrosis, 1.6% varus collapse. Complications were not associated with age, comorbidity, fracture classification, bone mineral density, Hertel's risk factors, presence of calcar comminution, reduction quality, and calcar screw position. Discussion The incidence of complications and reintervention was low. The main cause of reintervention was persistent stiffness, and no risk factors for complications were found in this study.
Minimally Invasive Chevron Akin: Locking The Metatarsal-Cuneiform Joint
Authors: Nunes Gustavo Araujo , Ferreira Gabriel Ferraz , Baumfeld Tiago , Filho Miguel Viana Pereira , Baumfeld Daniel , Lam Peter 
Published: February 2022

Introduction Minimally Invasive Chevron Akin (MICA) can be used to treat hallux valgus (HV) associated with a hypermobility of the first metatarsal-cuneiform joint (1MTCJ). The aim of this study was to perform a radiographic analysis of the MICA, focused on evaluating the 1MTCJ. Methods Forty patients (50 feet) with moderate to severe HV underwent a MICA procedure. Radiographic analysis included hallux valgus angle (HVA), intermetatarsal angles between the first and second rays (IMA), the intermetatarsal angle between the proximal fragment of the osteotomy and the second ray (IAPF) and the distance between a point 3 cm distal from the base of the second metatarsal and a point located at the same height for the first metatarsal base (Dist 1-2). The IAPF was compared with the preoperative IMA, and the other parameters were compared preoperatively and postoperatively. The radiographic complications were also recorded. Results Most patients were female (92%). The mean age was 50.4 years (SD = 16.1) and the mean follow-up was 16.1 months (SD = 3.5). The average HVA improved from 32.5° to 7.3°, and the average IMA from 14.2° to 4.2°. The IAPF and Dist1-2 values showed an increase of 4.8° and 4.0 mm respectively. There were no radiographic complications. Conclusion. Minimally invasive Chevron Akin promotes a great correction of the moderate to severe HV conventional parameters and increase the transversal stability of the 1MTCJ fixing this joint as medial as possible. Level of Evidence Level IV, case series
Factors affecting telepractice use in COVID-19
Authors: Chua Christine H , Seow Ferlin CL , Tang Florence MA , Lim Li Mei 
Published: February 2022

Background The use of telepractice as an alternate method of delivering healthcare to people increased significantly after COVID-19 became a global pandemic. Objectives This study aimed to identify factors contributing to the accelerated adoption of telepractice during COVID-19 in Singapore. It also sought to examine whether there are differences in the perspectives of staff in nursing facilities and caregivers in personal homes towards telepractice. Methods A cross-sectional mixed method design was used. A survey with 20 items was adapted from the Telehealth Usability Questionnaire and translated into Mandarin. Anonymous responses were obtained from 70 patients and caregivers who had received speech therapy services via telepractice from a restructured hospital before and/or during Singapore’s Circuit Breaker period. Analyses were conducted using descriptive statistics and content analysis. Results Sociodemographic variables of age, gender, education level and language preference did not impact user satisfaction and the likelihood of using telepractice again. Service-related factors were more influential. Participants chose to use telepractice as it saved travelling time (24.0%), was easy to use (19.3%), improved healthcare access (17.5%) and reduced waiting time (17.5%). Although all respondents expressed satisfaction in telepractice, 35.5% from personal homes and 37.5% from nursing facilities were not keen to use it again. Amongst caregivers, 26.7% from personal homes and 37.5% from nursing facilities preferred not to continue telepractice use. Technical and logistical disruptions and the lack of ‘personal touch’ were contributing factors. Conclusion Improving technological infrastructure, providing training for users and developing guidelines would help sustain telepractice as a form of service delivery beyond COVID-19.
MRI interobserver reliability in rectal tumor angulation
Authors: Pedersen Malene RV , Otto Peter O , Precht Helle , Rafaelsen Søren R 
Published: February 2022

Background When rectal tumors are examined using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) the perpendicular angulation of the axial T2-weighted image to the tumor axis is essential for a correct measure of the shortest distance between tumor and mesorectal facia. Purpose The purpose of this study was to determine the interobserver variability in rectal tumor angulation between a radiologist and a radiographer. Material and Methods Two observers performed the angulation independently. All MRI examinations were performed using an MRI 1.5 Tesla unit. A Bland–Altman plot was used to assess the interobserver variance and Intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) statistic was used to assess the interobserver reliability. Results MRI was performed in 55 patients with rectal cancer during a one-year period (25 (45.5%) women and 30 (54.5%) men). The median age was 71 years (range 46–87 years). The rectal tumor mean length was 3.9 cm. The interobserver reliability was good (ICC = 0.83, 95% confidence interval 0.72–0.90). Conclusion Radiographers receiving training will be able to perform MRI rectal tumor angulation.
Perspectives of an international sample of adults with Trichotillomania on the acceptability and feasibility of an asynchronous qualitative email interview method
Authors: Roodt Chane Anne , Keeley Philip , Turner Mary , Edmondson Amanda , Kendal Sarah 
Published: February 2022

Purpose Trichotillomania (TTM) is characterised by the recurrent pulling out of one’s own hair, resulting in hair loss. It is a poorly understood disorder with no consensus on aetiology or epidemiology. Nested within a larger qualitative study exploring a wide range of TTM topics, the aim of this paper is to report and consider participant views on the acceptability and feasibility of the asynchronous email interview method. Method Cross-cultural qualitative research on TTM is sparse; therefore, an international qualitative study with a geographically diverse sample was conducted using an asynchronous email interview method. Results Participant perspectives highlighted three themes related to the study method: the value in creating personal connections, cathartic reflections, and perceived strengths and weaknesses. This paper highlights the potential of the asynchronous email interview method for sustaining remote research across multiple locations, using a sample of 20 adults with TTM (18–55 years) from 15 different countries. Conclusions This was an acceptable and feasible method for data collection, facilitating remote access while yielding rich data from an often hidden and hard-to-reach population.