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Nevin Manimala Statistics

Development and Qualitative Pretesting of Child Feeding and Obesity Prevention Messages for Parents of Infants and Toddlers

J Acad Nutr Diet. 2021 Mar 11:S2212-2672(21)00077-0. doi: 10.1016/j.jand.2021.02.004. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Consistent, evidence-based child feeding guidance targeted to parents of children ages birth to 24 months (B-24) is needed for early childhood obesity prevention.

OBJECTIVE: The aim was to develop and pretest a comprehensive set of child feeding and obesity prevention messages for parents of children ages B-24.

DESIGN: A qualitative, 2-phase protocol, grounded in social and behavior change, was used as a conceptual interview framework to pilot test early childhood feeding messages with parents.

PARTICIPANTS/SETTING: Participants were parents (n = 23) of children ages B-24.

METHODS: A core set of 12 messages and supporting materials were developed for parents of children ages B-24 based on previous research findings, current research evidence, and feeding guidance. Parents were individually interviewed using a semistructured script along with additional questions to rank perceptions of message qualities.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Overall comprehension, importance, believability, ease of implementation, and likelihood of use of messages were assessed.

STATISTICAL ANALYSIS PERFORMED: Data analysis included qualitative thematic analysis and descriptive statistics for Likert-scaled responses.

RESULTS: Participants were primarily female, non-Hispanic White, with a mean age of 33.3 ± 6.8 years and at least a bachelor’s degree. Overall, most messages were understood, believable, perceived as important, and feasible by parents. Messages related to starting solid foods, encouraging child control of intake and self-feeding, and food allergen guidance were perceived as more difficult and less likely to be implemented by parents.

CONCLUSIONS: Additional research is needed to evaluate actual implementation of messages by diverse parents and resulting outcomes including impact on child weight.

PMID:33715977 | DOI:10.1016/j.jand.2021.02.004

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Optimizing single-chamber pacing in dogs Part 1: Rate determinations, rate interventions and hysteresis

Vet J. 2021 Feb 27:105650. doi: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2021.105650. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Determining ideal pacing rates to meet physiological needs and optimizing programming to prevent unnecessary right ventricular pacing in dogs requires an understanding of heart rate profiles and applicable pacing technology. The heart rate and rhythm of the dog is complex necessitating investigation of rate requirements of activity and circadian influences. Overlaying this information are a multiplicity of other factors such as age, breed, temperament, cardiovascular disease and underlining rhythm disorders that contribute to the difficulty in making general conclusions. However, all such information permits better implementation of programming options with the goal of better outcomes. In this review (Part 1 of a two-part review) instantaneous heart rate, rolling average heart rate, simple average heart rate, heart rate tachograms, RR interval tachograms (2D, 3D and dynamic), and Poincaré plots (2D, 3D and dynamic) are discussed as they apply to decisions in the determination and examination of pacing rates for dogs programmed in the VVI pacing mode (Ventricular paced, Ventricular sensed, Inhibited pacing). The applicable pacing operations available for three pacemaker companies are reviewed (Abbott, Biotronik/Dextronix, and Medtronic). The programmable options considered include: slowest pacing rate without additional features to extend the pacing interval, sleep/rest rate preferences, hysteresis to lengthen pacing interval following intrinsic beats, and intermittent increases in pacing following abrupt loss of intrinsic rhythm. Recommendations are suggested for follow-up of individual dogs with examination of pacing statistics and Holter monitoring.

PMID:33715961 | DOI:10.1016/j.tvjl.2021.105650

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Meta-analysis of diagnostic test accuracy: Just another meta-analysis?

Intensive Crit Care Nurs. 2021 Mar 11:103028. doi: 10.1016/j.iccn.2021.103028. Online ahead of print.

NO ABSTRACT

PMID:33715957 | DOI:10.1016/j.iccn.2021.103028

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Attitudes and beliefs towards implementation of nurse prescribing among general nurses and nurse specialists in China: A cross-sectional survey study

Nurs Open. 2021 Mar 14. doi: 10.1002/nop2.852. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

AIMS: To investigate the attitudes and beliefs towards the implementation of nurse prescribing among general nurses and nurse specialists.

DESIGN: A cross-sectional survey among general nurses and nurse specialists was conducted in seven provinces and one autonomous region in mainland China using convenience sampling method.

METHODS: The attitudes and beliefs towards nurse prescribing were assessed using the Nurse Attitudes and Beliefs towards Nurse prescribing scale, of which Cronbach’s coefficient was 0.902, retest reliability was 0.808. Respondents from eight hospitals across the country were employed to complete an online questionnaire.

RESULTS: Nurse specialists (n = 399) had statistically significantly more favourable intentions towards nurse prescribing than general nurses (n = 415; 105.64 ± 12.83 vs. 96.39 ± 13.16; p < .001). The years of clinical work experience, professional title, education degree were positively correlated with general nurses’ and nurse specialists’ attitudes and beliefs towards nurse prescribing (p < .05). Among nurse specialists, the variety of specialties and whether they work in nurse-led clinics on an outpatient basis have positively influence on their intentions towards nurse prescribing (p < .05).

PMID:33715286 | DOI:10.1002/nop2.852

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Barriers to accessing mental health services in Somali-Australian women: a qualitative study

Int J Ment Health Nurs. 2021 Mar 14. doi: 10.1111/inm.12846. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Despite the global prevalence of mental disorders being widely acknowledged, mental illness, complex trauma and the significant impact on individuals, families and communities continues to be poorly recognized, under-diagnosed and underreported. Based on the 2017 Australian census, one-in-five (20%) people have experienced some type of mental illness within the last 12 months (Australian Bureau of Statistics [ABS], 2019). The prevalence rate of mental illness in culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities is difficult to estimate due to cultural and linguistic issues and underutilization of mental health services. In particular, little epidemiological data is available about the prevalence of mental illness in the Somali-Australian community. The aim of this study was to identify the perceived barriers to help-seeking for mental health for Somali-Australian women. A qualitative descriptive study incorporating focus group discussions with 31 Somali-Australian women was conducted in Melbourne, Australia. Braun & Clarke’s (2006) thematic analysis was applied to the data. Four themes relating to help-seeking barriers were abstracted. Influence of faith explored how Islam can impact the person views on mental illness. Stigma focused on the relationship between public and self-stigma and help-seeking. Mistrust of Western healthcare system describes the participants concerns about the cultural disconnect between the community and the Western healthcare system. Finally, denial of mental illness reflected the community views on mental health. This study provides an insight into the factors that influence the Somali-Australian community help-seeking with mental health services. The findings have implications for mental health professionals and the Somali-Australian community.

PMID:33715289 | DOI:10.1111/inm.12846

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Thirsty? Choose Water! Encouraging Secondary School Students to choose water over sugary drinks. A descriptive analysis of intervention components

Health Promot J Austr. 2021 Mar 14. doi: 10.1002/hpja.479. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Childhood obesity is a significant public health issue. Sugar sweetened beverage (SSB) consumption contributes to this and adolescents are high consumers. This paper provides a descriptive overview of a school-based intervention to address this.

METHODS: 61 secondary schools in New South Wales were randomised to receive a behavioural intervention (BI), a chilled water station (CWS), both interventions or neither (control). The BI was delivered through classroom lessons, school-based promotion and vaccination clinic. The CWS intervention included the installation of one CWS per school. Intervention effectiveness over time was assessed via student surveys at baseline, post-intervention and follow-up (individual-level outcomes), feedback from teachers and vaccination nurses, a school information survey, and remotely monitored CWS water usage (school-level outcomes).

RESULTS: Teachers reported the BI was useful in teaching students about drinking water and negative consequences of SSBs. Nurses considered the post-vaccination waiting period a good opportunity to deliver health promotion messages. Students in this group showed statistically significant changes in knowledge about SSBs, dehydration effects and changes in daily SSB consumption (T1 23.18%; T3 18.20%). Positive feedback regarding CWSs was received with an increase in water consumption reported for students in this group (T1 86.15% to T3 89.66%) and a statistically significant increase in students carrying a water bottle to school and filling it observed.

CONCLUSIONS: Both interventions were readily implemented with high levels of acceptability and impact on students’ knowledge and SSB consumption. The study demonstrates how to promote water consumption in schools utilising two different interventions. SO WHAT?: Evidence regarding how to decrease SSB consumption among secondary school students has been strengthened.

PMID:33715238 | DOI:10.1002/hpja.479

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Effect of biofilm formation on implant abutments with an anti-bacterial coating. A pre-clinical in vivo study

Clin Oral Implants Res. 2021 Mar 13. doi: 10.1111/clr.13745. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVES: To analyze the long-term effect of plaque formation on implant abutments with an antibacterial coating and the ensuing host response in peri-implant tissues.

MATERIALS & METHODS: Four implants were installed in each mandibular premolar region following tooth extraction in 6 dogs. Three months later 2 test abutments with a Titanium-Bismuth-Gallium (Ti-Bi-Ga) coating and 2 control titanium abutments were connected to the implants on each side of the mandible. After 2 months ligatures were placed around the implants in one side of the mandible and plaque formation was allowed until the end of the experiment. The ligatures were removed after 4 weeks. Radiographs and microbiological samples were obtained from each implant site during the plaque formation period. Biopsies were obtained 8 months after abutment connection and prepared for histological analysis.

RESULTS: The analysis did not reveal any statistically significant differences in bone loss, bacterial growth and size of inflammatory lesions between implant units with and without the Ti-Bi-Ga coating. Implant sites exposed to the short period of ligature induced breakdown demonstrated more pronounced bone loss and bacterial growth than non-ligature sites.

CONCLUSIONS: It is suggested that a Ti-Bi-Ga coating does not prevent biofilm formation on the implant device and does not influence the ensuing host response in the adjacent peri-implant mucosa.

PMID:33715254 | DOI:10.1111/clr.13745

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Control Yourself: ISPE-Sponsored Guidance in the Application of Self-Controlled Study Designs in Pharmacoepidemiology

Pharmacoepidemiol Drug Saf. 2021 Mar 13. doi: 10.1002/pds.5227. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: Consensus is needed on conceptual foundations, terminology and relationships among the various self-controlled “trigger” study designs that control for time-invariant confounding factors and target the association between transient exposures (potential triggers) and abrupt outcomes. The International Society for Pharmacoepidemiology (ISPE) funded a working group of ISPE members to develop guidance material for the application and reporting of self-controlled study designs, similar to Standards of Reporting Observational Epidemiology (STROBE). This first paper focuses on navigation between the types of self-controlled designs to permit a foundational understanding with guiding principles.

METHODS: We leveraged a systematic review of applications of these designs, that we term Self-controlled Crossover Observational PharmacoEpidemiologic (SCOPE) studies. Starting from first principles and using case examples, we reviewed outcome-anchored (case-crossover [CCO], case-time control [CTC], case-case-time control [CCTC]) and exposure-anchored (self-controlled case-series [SCCS]) study designs.

RESULTS: Key methodological features related to exposure, outcome and time-related concerns were clarified, and a common language and worksheet to facilitate the design of SCOPE studies is introduced.

CONCLUSIONS: Consensus on conceptual foundations, terminology and relationships among SCOPE designs will facilitate understanding and critical appraisal of published studies, as well as help in the design, analysis and review of new SCOPE studies. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

PMID:33715267 | DOI:10.1002/pds.5227

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Cognitive impairment in patients with psoriatic arthritis

Acta Neurol Belg. 2021 Mar 13. doi: 10.1007/s13760-021-01644-y. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is an inflammatory rheumatic disorder associated with cutaneous psoriasis. Neurological manifestations are not uncommon in rheumatic diseases and recent studies point to a possible underestimation of cognitive impairment in this group of diseases. Our aim was to assess the cognitive impairment in patients with PsA.

METHODS: We carried out a cross-sectional case-control study with consecutive patients with PsA. Trained interviewers conducted structured and standardized in-person assessments. At baseline, functional limitations were characterized using the Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ). Cognitive function was evaluated with the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) and neuropsychiatric symptoms were investigated with the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Using a proper statistical analysis, we compared the differences in the neurological outcomes between cases and controls.

RESULTS: A total of 37 patients with PsA and 36 healthy controls were included in our study. Patients with PsA had a worse MoCA score when compared to controls (p = 0.01). The proportion of patients with cognitive impairment according to MoCA between cases and controls was also statistically significant (91.9% vs 58.3%, p = 0.002). Executive skills, naming, language, and abstraction were the most affected domains. There was no statistical difference between the prevalence of neuropsychiatric symptoms between the two groups. Patients with increased functional limitations are associated with poor cognitive performance (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION: Cognitive impairment might be a neurological manifestation of PsA.

PMID:33715103 | DOI:10.1007/s13760-021-01644-y

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Association between air pollution and COVID-19 infection: evidence from data at national and municipal levels

Environ Sci Pollut Res Int. 2021 Mar 13. doi: 10.1007/s11356-021-13319-5. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

The impact of high concentrations of air pollution on COVID-19 has been a major air quality and life safety issue in recent studies. This study aimed to assess the contribution of different air pollution indicators in different spaces on the newly confirmed cases of coronavirus. According to causality’s results between air pollution (AP) and COVID-19 infection in 9 countries, first, we examined the non-linear relationship from AP to COVID-19 with PM2.5 as the rating variable (the cut point is 35 μg/m3) at the national level. It is concluded that the effects of PM2.5 and PM10 on COVID-19 are more sensitive in Russia, England, Germany, and France, while O3 and PM2.5 are more sensitive in America and Canada from 21 Jan to 20 May. Second, we examined the threshold effects from AP to COVID-19 with PM2.5, PM10, SO2, CO, NO2, and O3 as the threshold variables, respectively, at the municipal level in China during the period 28 Jan to 31 May. It is concluded that except CO, the remaining 5 indicators are very sensitive to the increase of newly confirmed cases, and the spread of COVID-19 can be prevented and controlled by the determination of thresholds. In addition, the 9 countries and 27 provinces show that PM2.5 in high concentrations is the more sensitive pollutant on the spread of COVID-19 infection.

PMID:33715120 | DOI:10.1007/s11356-021-13319-5