bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Electroacupuncture versus sham electroacupuncture in the treatment of postoperative ileus after laparoscopic surgery for colorectal cancer: study protocol for a multicentre, randomised, sham-controlled trial
Authors: Zou Xuan , Yang Ying-Chi , Wang Yu , Pei Wei , Han Jia-Gang , Lu Yun , Zhang Mao-Shen , Tu Jian Feng , Lin Lu Lu , Wang Li-Qiong , Shi Guangxia , Yan Shi-Yan , Yang Jing-Wen , Liu Cun-Zhi 
Published: April 2022

IntroductionPostoperative ileus (POI) is an inevitable complication of almost all abdominal surgeries, which results in prolonged hospitalisation and increased healthcare costs. Various treatment strategies have been developed for POI but with limited success. Electroacupuncture (EA) might be a potential therapy for POI. However, evidence from rigorous trials that evaluated the effectiveness of EA for POI is limited. Thus, the aim of this study was to examine whether EA can safely reduce the time to the first defecation after laparoscopic surgery in patients with POI.Methods and analysisThis multicentre randomised sham-controlled trial will be conducted in four hospitals in China. A total of 248 eligible participants with colorectal cancer who will undergo laparoscopic surgery will be randomly allocated to an EA group and a sham EA group in a 1:1 ratio. Treatment will be performed starting on postoperative day 1 and continued for four consecutive days, once per day. If the participant is discharged within 4 days after surgery, the treatment will cease on the day of discharge. The primary outcome will be the time to first defecation. The secondary outcome measures will include time to first flatus, tolerability of semiliquid and solid food, length of postoperative hospital stay, postoperative nausea and vomiting, abdominal distension, postoperative pain, postoperative analgesic, time to first ambulation, blinding assessment, credibility and expectancy and readmission rate.Ethics and disseminationEthics approval was obtained from the Ethics Committee of Beijing University of Chinese Medicine (number 2020BZHYLL0116) and the institutional review board of each hospital. The results will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications. This study protocol (V.3.0, 6 March 2020) involves human participants and was approved by the ethics committees of Beijing University of Chinese Medicine (number 2020BZHYLL0116), Beijing Friendship Hospital Affiliated to Capital Medical University (number 2020-P2-069-01), Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital Affiliated to Capital Medical University (number 2020-3-11-2), National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College (number 20/163-2359), and the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University (number QYFYKYLL711311920). The participants gave informed consent to participate in the study before taking part.Trial registration numberChiCTR2000038444.
Prevalence of childhood exposure to intimate partner violence in low-income and lower-middle-income countries: a systematic review
Authors: Kieselbach Berit , Kimber Melissa , MacMillan Harriet L , Perneger Thomas 
Published: April 2022

ObjectiveTo determine the proportion of children in low-income and lower-middle-income countries exposed to intimate partner violence (IPV).DesignSystematic review.Data sourcesPubMed, CINAHL, ERIC, PsycINFO, Web of Science, WHO Global Index Medicus, and Violence and Abuse Abstracts, hand searching of specialised journals from inception until 19 May 2019.Eligibility criteria for selecting studiesPrimary quantitative studies that included a measure of self-reported exposure to IPV prior to age 18 and were conducted in low-income and lower-middle-income countries.Data extraction and synthesisData were screened, extracted and appraised by two independent reviewers. The prevalence estimates were pooled using a random-effects model. Outcomes included lifetime and past-year prevalence of childhood exposure to IPV. Meta-regression was used to explore heterogeneity. Publication bias was assessed using a funnel plot and Egger’s regression test. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines were followed.ResultsSixty-two studies with a total of 231 512 participants were included. Eighty-five lifetime prevalence estimates and 6 estimates of past-year prevalence were available for synthesis. The average lifetime prevalence of childhood exposure to IPV was 29% (95% CI 26% to 31%). The average past-year prevalence in children was 35% (95% CI 21% to 48%). The lifetime prevalence disaggregated by WHO regions ranged from 21% to 34%. There were no statistical differences in prevalence estimates between samples of men and women.ConclusionAlmost one-third of children in low-income and lower-middle-income countries have been exposed to IPV in their lifetime. There was large heterogeneity between estimates that was not explained by available study and sample characteristics. Our findings indicate that children’s exposure to IPV in low-income and lower-middle-income countries is common and widespread; prevention of this major public health exposure should be a priority.PROSPERO registration numberCRD42019119698.
Inclusion of informal caregivers in the palliative and end-of-life care of older adults: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Auclair Isabelle , Bourbonnais Anne , Lavoie Audrey , Leclerc-Loiselle Jérôme 
Published: April 2022

IntroductionPalliative and end-of-life (EOL) care will increasingly be required in years to come as a result of an ageing population. An important component of this type of care is the inclusion of informal caregivers, who are family members or friends offering unpaid assistance to older adults with a terminal illness. Although systematic reviews were conducted on topics related to the inclusion of informal caregivers in the palliative and EOL care of older adults, several gaps remain as they were specific to a health condition and/or setting. The purpose of our scoping review is to map the extent of knowledge on this subject.Methods and analysisWe will conduct our scoping review following Levac’s methodology. We will gather publications of various types through nine databases, manual searches in journals and search engines and reference lists. The selection process will be conducted by two independent reviewers and consist of screening by title and abstract, followed by reading the full text to confirm eligibility. An independent reviewer will then extract data and assess quality from included publications. Data extracted from different publication types will be synthesised together in the Excel software using a content analysis method, with quantitative data transformed into a qualitative description. Results will be presented through descriptive statistics and themes. During different steps of the review, we will also consult informal caregivers and health professionals for feedback as stakeholders.Ethics and disseminationThe conduction of this scoping review requires no ethical approval. Results will provide an overview of the state of knowledge on the inclusion of informal caregivers in palliative and EOL of older adults, which could help guide clinical practice, the development of interventions and policy and further research. We will disseminate these results by publishing an article, presenting in conferences, and discussing findings with stakeholders.
Antiretroviral therapy uptake and predictors of virological failure in patients with HIV receiving first-line and second-line regimens in Johannesburg, South Africa: a retrospective cohort data analysis
Authors: Gumede Siphamandla Bonga , Venter Francois , de Wit John , Wensing Annemarie , Lalla-Edward Samanta Tresha 
Published: April 2022

ObjectiveThis study described the demographics, treatment information and identified characteristics associated with virological failure and being lost to follow-up (LTFU) for patients with HIV on first-line and second-line antiretroviral therapy (ART) regimens in a large South African cohort.DesignA quantitative retrospective cohort study using secondary data analysis.SettingSeven Johannesburg inner city facilities.ParticipantsUnique records of 123 002 people with HIV receiving ART at any point in the period 1 April 2004 to 29 February 2020 were included.MeasuresDemographic characteristics, ART status, CD4 count information and retention status were collected and analysed as covariates of outcomes (viral load (VL) and LTFU).ResultsOf the total study patients, 95% (n=1 17 260) were on a first-line regimen and 5% (n=5742) were on a second-line regimen. Almost two-thirds were female (64%, n=79 226). Most patients (60%, n=72 430) were initiated on an efavirenz-based, tenofovir disoproxil fumarate-based and emtricitabine-based regimen (fixed-dose combination). 91% (n=76 737) achieved viral suppression at least once since initiating on ART and 60% (n=57 981) remained in care as at the end of February 2020. Patients from the community health centre and primary healthcare clinics were not only more likely to be virally suppressed but also more likely to be LTFU. Patients on second-line regimens were less likely to reach viral suppression (adjusted OR (aOR)=0.26, CI=0.23 to 0.28) and more likely to be LTFU (aOR=1.21, CI=1.09 to 1.35). Being older (≥25 years) and having a recent CD4 cell count≥100 cells/µL were predictors of viral suppression and retention in patients on ART.ConclusionPatients on first-line regimens had higher VL suppression rates and were more likely to remain in care than those on a second-line regimen. Being younger and having low CD4 cell counts were associated with poor outcomes, suggesting priority groups for ART adherence support.
What are patients’ first-time experiences with video consulting? A qualitative interview study in Danish general practice in times of COVID-19
Authors: Assing Hvidt Elisabeth , Christensen Nina Primholdt , Grønning Anette , Jepsen Carole , Lüchau Elle Christine 
Published: April 2022

ObjectiveTo explore the experiences of Danish patients using video consultation (VC) to consult their general practitioner (GP) during COVID-19 lockdown and their attitudes towards continued use beyond COVID-19.DesignA qualitative design was employed, consisting of individual semi-structured interviews where participants were asked to retrospectively describe their experiences and reflections. Data were analysed using thematic analysis.SettingCapital and Southern Regions of Denmark.Participants27 patients (17 women and 10 men) aged between 23 and 76 years who had used VC once or more during the COVID-19 pandemic participated. The data were collected from February to October 2020. We used a convenience sampling technique and sample size was based on the principle of information power.ResultsThree overarching themes, each containing subthemes, were developed. Participants described pre-use reactions and concerns relating to VC as being ‘better than nothing’ given the COVID-19 circumstances, and preferred VC over a telephone consultation. Salient pre-use concerns related to whether the technology ‘would work’ and whether VC would influence consultation length and GP behaviour. Overall, participants reported positive experiences of VC use and communication attributing these mainly to ‘knowing the GP’ and ‘feeling seen and heard’. Participants were interested in future VC use for many needs as a natural consequence of an increasingly digitalised society, not least due to COVID-19.ConclusionsOur findings contribute with knowledge about first-user experiences of VC against the background of COVID-19. Participants showed positive attitudes towards future use of VC as either a supplementary or alternative consultation form in general practice.
Improving physical function of patients following intensive care unit admission (EMPRESS): protocol of a randomised controlled feasibility trial
Authors: Cusack Rebecca , Bates Andrew , Mitchell Kay , van Willigen Zoe , Denehy Linda , Hart Nicholas , Dushianthan Ahilanandan , Reading Isabel , Chorozoglou Maria , Sturmey Gordon , Davey Iain , Grocott Michael 
Published: April 2022

IntroductionPhysical rehabilitation delivered early following admission to the intensive care unit (ICU) has the potential to improve short-term and long-term outcomes. The use of supine cycling together with other rehabilitation techniques has potential as a method of introducing rehabilitation earlier in the patient journey. The aim of the study is to determine the feasibility of delivering the designed protocol of a randomised clinical trial comparing a protocolised early rehabilitation programme including cycling with usual care. This feasibility study will inform a larger multicentre study.Methods and analysis90 acute care medical patients from two mixed medical–surgical ICUs will be recruited. We will include ventilated patients within 72 hours of initiation of mechanical ventilation and expected to be ventilated a further 48 hours or more. Patients will receive usual care or usual care plus two 30 min rehabilitation sessions 5 days/week.Feasibility outcomes are (1) recruitment of one to two patients per month per site; (2) protocol fidelity with >75% of patients commencing interventions within 72 hours of mechanical ventilation, with >70% interventions delivered; and (3) blinded outcome measures recorded at three time points in >80% of patients. Secondary outcomes are (1) strength and function, the Physical Function ICU Test–scored measured on ICU discharge; (2) hospital length of stay; and (3) mental health and physical ability at 3 months using the WHO Disability Assessment Schedule 2. An economic analysis using hospital health services data reported with an embedded health economic study will collect and assess economic and quality of life data including the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scales core, the Euroqol-5 Dimension-5 Level and the Impact of Event Score.Ethics and disseminationThe study has ethical approval from the South Central Hampshire A Research Ethics Committee (19/SC/0016). All amendments will be approved by this committee. An independent trial monitoring committee is overseeing the study. Results will be made available to critical care survivors, their caregivers, the critical care societies and other researchers.Trial registration numberNCT03771014.
Factors associated with intimacy in female Taiwanese patients with systemic lupus erythematosus: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Hsu Chia-Wen , Hsu Bao-Bao , Koo Malcolm , Lu Ming-Chi 
Published: April 2022

ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to investigate the association of demographic factors, clinical manifestations and disease activity of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) with intimate relationships in female patients with SLE.DesignThis was a cross-sectional study based on questionnaires.SettingThis study was conducted at a regional teaching hospital in southern Taiwan from April to September 2019.ParticipantsAdult patients with SLE recruited from the outpatient rheumatology clinics of the study hospital.Primary outcome measureDisease-specific quality of life assessed using the Lupus Quality of Life questionnaire (LupusQoL).ResultsA total of 243 female patients with SLE were enrolled. The results of the multiple linear regression analysis indicated that the independent factors associated with a higher score in the intimate relationships domain of the LupusQoL included the age group under 40 years (p=0.001), education level of college or above (p=0.005), being employed (p<0.001), a better self-reported health status (p=0.012) and a lower SLE-Disease Activity Score (SLE-DAS) score (p=0.010). In addition, the intimate relationships domain was significantly and independently associated physical health (p=0.001), fatigue (p=0.006) and burden to others (p=0.002) domains of the LupusQoL.ConclusionsPhysicians should be vigilant regarding the intimate relationships aspect of the health-related quality of life in female patients with SLE, especially in those who are older, unemployed, have a low educational level, poor self-reported health status, higher SLE-DAS, fatigue, and feeling of burden to others.
Patients’ experiences of cognitive impairment following critical illness: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Alrø Anette Bjerregaard , Nedergaard Helene Korvenius , Svenningsen Helle , Jensen Hanne Irene , Dreyer Pia 
Published: April 2022

IntroductionCritical illness and admission to an intensive care unit (ICU) can affect patients for months or years following discharge as many suffer from cognitive impairment. Long-term cognitive impairment affects patients’ quality of life and ability to adapt to everyday life. Exploring their experiences on how and which cognitive impairments are affecting their everyday lives facilitates planning of relevant research on interventions that may serve to alleviate the burden of post-ICU cognitive impairment. The objective of this scoping review is to map the existing research on patients’ experiences of cognitive impairment following critical illness.Methods and analysisThe methodology will follow the Joanna Briggs Institute guidelines for scoping reviews. The databases MEDLINE, CINAHL, PsycINFO and Embase will be searched to identify studies appropriate for inclusion. Any peer-reviewed original studies meeting the inclusion criteria and include statements from adult patients about how they experience cognitive impairment following critical illness and ICU admission will be considered. Studies published in English and Scandinavian languages will be included, with no further geographical or cultural limitations. The included studies will be screened by two independent researchers using a standardised data extraction tool and the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool will be used for critical appraisal. The results will be presented in a tabular form, and data will be supported by narrative descriptions or a narrative summary.Ethics and disseminationSince the scoping review methodology aims at synthetising existing research on patients’ experiences of cognitive impairment following critical illness, the scoping review does not require ethical approval. The results will be disseminated though a peer-reviewed publication in a scientific journal.
Health-promoting work schedules: protocol for a large-scale cluster randomised controlled trial on the effects of a work schedule without quick returns on sickness absence among healthcare workers
Authors: Vedaa Øystein , Djupedal Ingebjørg Louise Rockwell , Svensen Erling , Waage Siri , Bjorvatn Bjørn , Pallesen Ståle , Lie Stein Atle , Nielsen Morten , Harris Anette 
Published: April 2022

IntroductionIn shift work, quick returns refer to transitions between two shifts with less than 11 hours available rest time. Twenty-three per cent of employees in European countries reported having quick returns. Quick returns are related to short sleep duration, fatigue, sleepiness, work-related accidents and sickness absence. The present study is the first randomised controlled trial (RCT) to investigate the effect of a work schedule without quick returns for 6 months, compared with a work schedule that maintains quick returns during the same time frame.Methods and analysisA parallel-group cluster RCT in a target sample of more than 4000 healthcare workers at Haukeland University Hospital in Norway will be conducted. More than 70 hospital units will be assessed for eligibility and randomised to a work schedule without quick returns for 6 months or continue with a schedule that maintains quick returns. The primary outcome is objective records of sickness absence; secondary outcomes are questionnaire data (n≈4000 invited) on sleep and functioning, physical and psychological health, work-related accidents and turnover intention. For a subsample, sleep diaries and objective sleep registrations with radar technology (n≈ 50) will be collected.Ethics and disseminationThe study protocol was approved by the Regional Committee for Medical and Health Research Ethics in Western Norway (2020/200386). Findings from the trial will be disseminated in peer-reviewed journals and presented at national and international conferences. Exploratory analyses of potential mediators and moderators will be reported. User-friendly outputs will be disseminated to relevant stakeholders, unions and other relevant societal groups.Trial registration numberNCT04693182.
Development, evaluation and implementation of a digital behavioural health treatment for chronic pain: study protocol of the multiphase DAHLIA project
Authors: Bartels Sara Laureen , Johnsson Sophie I , Boersma Katja , Flink Ida , McCracken Lance M , Petersson Suzanne , Christie Hannah L , Feldman Inna , Simons Laura E , Onghena Patrick , Vlaeyen Johan W S , Wicksell Rikard K 
Published: April 2022

IntroductionChronic pain affects about 20%–40% of the population and is linked to mental health outcomes and impaired daily functioning. Pharmacological interventions are commonly insufficient for producing relief and recovery of functioning. Behavioural health treatment is key to generate lasting benefits across outcome domains. However, most people with chronic pain cannot easily access evidence-based behavioural interventions. The overall aim of the DAHLIA project is to develop, evaluate and implement a widely accessible digital behavioural health treatment to improve well-being in individuals with chronic pain.Methods and analysisThe project follows the four phases of the mHealth Agile Development and Evaluation Lifecycle: (1) development and pre-implementation surveillance using focus groups, stakeholder interviews and a business model; (2) iterative optimisation studies applying single case experimental design (SCED) method in 4–6 iterations with n=10 patients and their healthcare professionals per iteration; (3) a two-armed clinical randomised controlled trial enhanced with SCED (n=180 patients per arm) and (4) interview-based post-market surveillance. Data analyses include multilevel modelling, cost-utility and indicative analyses.In October 2021, inter-sectorial partners are engaged and funding is secured for four years. The treatment content is compiled and the first treatment prototype is in preparation. Clinical sites in three Swedish regions are informed and recruitment for phase 1 will start in autumn 2021. To facilitate long-term impact and accessibility, the treatment will be integrated into a Swedish health platform (www.1177.se), which is used on a national level as a hub for advice, information, guidance and e-services for health and healthcare.Ethics and disseminationThe study plan has been reviewed and approved by Swedish ethical review authorities. Findings will be actively disseminated through peer-reviewed journals, conference presentations, social media and outreach activities for the wider public.Trial registration numberNCT05066087.