Psychological impact of COVID-19 on healthcare workers : cross-sectional analyses from 14 countries
- Ghozy, Sherief, Cross, Wendy, Islam, Shariful, Al-Mawali, Adhra Hilal, AlQurashi, Alaa Ashraf, Hamza, Amr, Joseph, Bindu, Banik, Biswajit, Elsori, Deena H., Sultana, Farhana, Yasmin, Farhana, Mahmud, Ilias, Lam, Louisa, Hammoud, Majeda, Salehin, Masudus, Keblawi, Mohammed Ali, Eltewacy, Nael Kamel, Al Laham, Nahed, El-Khazragy, Nashwa, Oli, Natalia, Tungpunkom, Patraporn, Almustanyir, Sami, Chair, Sek, Alif, Sheikh, Al-Madhoun, Sondos, Chien, Wai Tong, Rahman, Muhammad Aziz
- Authors: Ghozy, Sherief , Cross, Wendy , Islam, Shariful , Al-Mawali, Adhra Hilal , AlQurashi, Alaa Ashraf , Hamza, Amr , Joseph, Bindu , Banik, Biswajit , Elsori, Deena H. , Sultana, Farhana , Yasmin, Farhana , Mahmud, Ilias , Lam, Louisa , Hammoud, Majeda , Salehin, Masudus , Keblawi, Mohammed Ali , Eltewacy, Nael Kamel , Al Laham, Nahed , El-Khazragy, Nashwa , Oli, Natalia , Tungpunkom, Patraporn , Almustanyir, Sami , Chair, Sek , Alif, Sheikh , Al-Madhoun, Sondos , Chien, Wai Tong , Rahman, Muhammad Aziz
- Date: 2022
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Glob. Ment. Health Vol. 9, no. (2022), p. 328-338
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- Description: Healthcare workers (HCWs) have been impacted psychologically due to their professional responsibilities over the prolonged era of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. The study aimed to identify the predictors of psychological distress, fear, and coping during the COVID-19 pandemic among HCWs. A cross-sectional online survey was conducted among self-identified HCWs across 14 countries (12 from Asia and two from Africa). The Kessler Psychological Distress Scale, the Fear of COVID-19 Scale, and the Brief Resilient Coping Scale were used to assess the psychological distress, fear, and coping of HCWs, respectively. A total of 2447 HCWs participated 36% were doctors, and 42% were nurses, with a mean age of 36 (±12) years, and 70% were females. Moderate to very-high psychological distress was prevalent in 67% of the HCWs the lowest rate was reported in the United Arab Emirates (1%) and the highest in Indonesia (16%). The prevalence of high levels of fear was 20% the lowest rate was reported in Libya (9%) and the highest in Egypt (32%). The prevalence of medium-to-high resilient coping was 63% the lowest rate was reported in Libya (28%) and the highest in Syria (76%). COVID-19 has augmented the psychological distress among HCWs. Factors identified in this study should be considered in managing the wellbeing of HCWs, who had been serving as the frontline drivers in managing the crisis successfully across all participating countries. Furthermore, interventions to address their psychological distress should be considered.
- Authors: Ghozy, Sherief , Cross, Wendy , Islam, Shariful , Al-Mawali, Adhra Hilal , AlQurashi, Alaa Ashraf , Hamza, Amr , Joseph, Bindu , Banik, Biswajit , Elsori, Deena H. , Sultana, Farhana , Yasmin, Farhana , Mahmud, Ilias , Lam, Louisa , Hammoud, Majeda , Salehin, Masudus , Keblawi, Mohammed Ali , Eltewacy, Nael Kamel , Al Laham, Nahed , El-Khazragy, Nashwa , Oli, Natalia , Tungpunkom, Patraporn , Almustanyir, Sami , Chair, Sek , Alif, Sheikh , Al-Madhoun, Sondos , Chien, Wai Tong , Rahman, Muhammad Aziz
- Date: 2022
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Glob. Ment. Health Vol. 9, no. (2022), p. 328-338
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Healthcare workers (HCWs) have been impacted psychologically due to their professional responsibilities over the prolonged era of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. The study aimed to identify the predictors of psychological distress, fear, and coping during the COVID-19 pandemic among HCWs. A cross-sectional online survey was conducted among self-identified HCWs across 14 countries (12 from Asia and two from Africa). The Kessler Psychological Distress Scale, the Fear of COVID-19 Scale, and the Brief Resilient Coping Scale were used to assess the psychological distress, fear, and coping of HCWs, respectively. A total of 2447 HCWs participated 36% were doctors, and 42% were nurses, with a mean age of 36 (±12) years, and 70% were females. Moderate to very-high psychological distress was prevalent in 67% of the HCWs the lowest rate was reported in the United Arab Emirates (1%) and the highest in Indonesia (16%). The prevalence of high levels of fear was 20% the lowest rate was reported in Libya (9%) and the highest in Egypt (32%). The prevalence of medium-to-high resilient coping was 63% the lowest rate was reported in Libya (28%) and the highest in Syria (76%). COVID-19 has augmented the psychological distress among HCWs. Factors identified in this study should be considered in managing the wellbeing of HCWs, who had been serving as the frontline drivers in managing the crisis successfully across all participating countries. Furthermore, interventions to address their psychological distress should be considered.
Psychometric properties of the caring efficacy scale among personal care attendants working in residential aged care settings
- Shrestha, Sumina, Wells, Yvonne, While, Christine, Rahman, Muhammad Aziz
- Authors: Shrestha, Sumina , Wells, Yvonne , While, Christine , Rahman, Muhammad Aziz
- Date: 2023
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Australasian Journal on Ageing Vol. 42, no. 3 (2023), p. 491-498
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- Description: Objective: This study assessed the psychometric properties of the Caring Efficacy Scale (CES) among personal care attendants providing care to older residents in residential aged care settings. Methods: This cross-sectional study was completed in Australia in 2020–2021. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) of the 30-item original CES (Model 1) and 28-item CES validated in registered nurses (Model 2) was conducted to assess the goodness of fit of these models in our study population. Due to unsatisfactory fit indices for both models, exploratory factor analysis (EFA) was conducted to examine the dimensionality and underlying structure of the original CES among personal care attendants. Internal consistency of the final scale and subscales identified was examined using item-total correlations and Cronbach's alpha coefficients. Results: Two hundred and eighty personal care attendants participated in the study. The model fit indices such as Comparative Fit Index and Tucker Lewis Index of both models were less than 0.90, while the Standardised Root Mean Square Residual and Root Mean Square of Approximation values were greater than or equal to 0.08 and 0.06, respectively. The EFA identified a two-factor structure, and 22 items of the 30 in the original scale were retained. Item-total correlations amongst items retained in the scale and subscales were greater than 0.3. Cronbach's alpha for the abbreviated scale was 0.85, with 0.83 and 0.79, respectively, for the two subscales. Conclusions: The modified CES can be used as a robust tool to assess the self-efficacy of personal care attendants in providing care to older residents in residential aged care settings. © 2023 The Authors. Australasian Journal on Ageing published by John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd on behalf of AJA Inc’.
- Authors: Shrestha, Sumina , Wells, Yvonne , While, Christine , Rahman, Muhammad Aziz
- Date: 2023
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Australasian Journal on Ageing Vol. 42, no. 3 (2023), p. 491-498
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- Description: Objective: This study assessed the psychometric properties of the Caring Efficacy Scale (CES) among personal care attendants providing care to older residents in residential aged care settings. Methods: This cross-sectional study was completed in Australia in 2020–2021. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) of the 30-item original CES (Model 1) and 28-item CES validated in registered nurses (Model 2) was conducted to assess the goodness of fit of these models in our study population. Due to unsatisfactory fit indices for both models, exploratory factor analysis (EFA) was conducted to examine the dimensionality and underlying structure of the original CES among personal care attendants. Internal consistency of the final scale and subscales identified was examined using item-total correlations and Cronbach's alpha coefficients. Results: Two hundred and eighty personal care attendants participated in the study. The model fit indices such as Comparative Fit Index and Tucker Lewis Index of both models were less than 0.90, while the Standardised Root Mean Square Residual and Root Mean Square of Approximation values were greater than or equal to 0.08 and 0.06, respectively. The EFA identified a two-factor structure, and 22 items of the 30 in the original scale were retained. Item-total correlations amongst items retained in the scale and subscales were greater than 0.3. Cronbach's alpha for the abbreviated scale was 0.85, with 0.83 and 0.79, respectively, for the two subscales. Conclusions: The modified CES can be used as a robust tool to assess the self-efficacy of personal care attendants in providing care to older residents in residential aged care settings. © 2023 The Authors. Australasian Journal on Ageing published by John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd on behalf of AJA Inc’.
Public health messaging during disasters : a qualitative study of emergency department key informants
- Coombs, Nicole, Porter, Joanne, Barbagallo, Michael
- Authors: Coombs, Nicole , Porter, Joanne , Barbagallo, Michael
- Date: 2023
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Australasian Emergency Care Vol. 26, no. 4 (2023), p. 284-289
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- Description: Background: Patient education is a professional obligation for all nurses. Public health messaging in emergency departments during disasters can help prevent further risk or illness for affected communities. In this study, Australian emergency nurse Key Informants share their perceptions and experiences of preventative messaging provided in their departments during disasters and the governance and processes in place to support this practice. Methods: The qualitative phase of a mixed methods study, where semi structured interviews were utilised, and data analysed using a six step Thematic analysis. Results: Three themes were identified: (1) Part of the Job; (2) It's all in the delivery; and (3) Preparation is the key. These themes include concepts involving the confidence and competence of nurses providing messages, what, when and how messages are being given and how prepared both the department and staff are regarding patient education during disaster events. Conclusions: Nurse confidence is a key factor in the delivery of preventative messages during disasters, potentially resulting from a lack of exposure, a junior workforce and minimal training. Leaders agree that departments are not preparing or supporting messaging practice, with an absence of specific training, formal guidelines, and patient education resources; and that improvement is needed. © 2023
- Authors: Coombs, Nicole , Porter, Joanne , Barbagallo, Michael
- Date: 2023
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Australasian Emergency Care Vol. 26, no. 4 (2023), p. 284-289
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- Description: Background: Patient education is a professional obligation for all nurses. Public health messaging in emergency departments during disasters can help prevent further risk or illness for affected communities. In this study, Australian emergency nurse Key Informants share their perceptions and experiences of preventative messaging provided in their departments during disasters and the governance and processes in place to support this practice. Methods: The qualitative phase of a mixed methods study, where semi structured interviews were utilised, and data analysed using a six step Thematic analysis. Results: Three themes were identified: (1) Part of the Job; (2) It's all in the delivery; and (3) Preparation is the key. These themes include concepts involving the confidence and competence of nurses providing messages, what, when and how messages are being given and how prepared both the department and staff are regarding patient education during disaster events. Conclusions: Nurse confidence is a key factor in the delivery of preventative messages during disasters, potentially resulting from a lack of exposure, a junior workforce and minimal training. Leaders agree that departments are not preparing or supporting messaging practice, with an absence of specific training, formal guidelines, and patient education resources; and that improvement is needed. © 2023
Quantification of training load relative to match load of youth national team soccer players
- Szigeti, Gyorgy, Schuth, Gabor, Revisnyei, Peter, Pasic, Alija, Szilas, Adam, Gabbett, Tim, Pavlik, Gabor
- Authors: Szigeti, Gyorgy , Schuth, Gabor , Revisnyei, Peter , Pasic, Alija , Szilas, Adam , Gabbett, Tim , Pavlik, Gabor
- Date: 2022
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Sports Health Vol. 14, no. 1 (2022), p. 84-91
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- Description: Background: Previous studies have examined the training load relative to match load in club settings. The aims of this study were to (1) quantify the external training load relative to match load in days before a subsequent international game and (2) examine the cumulative training load in relation to match load of U-17 national team field soccer players. Hypothesis: Volume and intensity load parameters will vary between trainings; the farthermost trainings have the highest load gradually decreasing toward the match. Study Design: Prospective cohort study. Level of Evidence: Level 4. Methods: External training load data were collected from 84 youth national team players using global positioning technology between 2016 and 2020. In the national team setting, training load data were obtained from 3 days before the actual match day (MD-3, MD-2, MD-1 days) and analyzed with regard to the number of days up to the game. Volume and intensity parameters were calculated as a percentage of the subsequent match load. Results: Significant differences were found between MD-1 and MD-2, as well as between MD-1 and MD-3 for most volume parameters (P < 0.01; effect sizes [ESs] 0.68-0.99) and high-intensity distance (P < 0.002; ES 0.67 and 0.73) and maximum velocity (P < 0.002; ES 0.82) as intensity parameters. Most cumulative values were significantly different from total duration (P < 0.001, common language ES 0.80-0.96). Conclusion: The training volume gradually decreased as match day approached, with the highest volume occurring on MD-3. Intensity variables, such as maximum velocity, high-intensity accelerations, and meterage per minute were larger in MD-1 training relative to match load. Training volume was lowest in MD-1 trainings and highest in MD-3 trainings; intensity however varies between training days. Clinical Relevance: The findings of this study may help to understand the special preparational demands of international matches, highlighting the role of decreased training volume and increased intensity. © 2021 The Author(s).
- Authors: Szigeti, Gyorgy , Schuth, Gabor , Revisnyei, Peter , Pasic, Alija , Szilas, Adam , Gabbett, Tim , Pavlik, Gabor
- Date: 2022
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Sports Health Vol. 14, no. 1 (2022), p. 84-91
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Background: Previous studies have examined the training load relative to match load in club settings. The aims of this study were to (1) quantify the external training load relative to match load in days before a subsequent international game and (2) examine the cumulative training load in relation to match load of U-17 national team field soccer players. Hypothesis: Volume and intensity load parameters will vary between trainings; the farthermost trainings have the highest load gradually decreasing toward the match. Study Design: Prospective cohort study. Level of Evidence: Level 4. Methods: External training load data were collected from 84 youth national team players using global positioning technology between 2016 and 2020. In the national team setting, training load data were obtained from 3 days before the actual match day (MD-3, MD-2, MD-1 days) and analyzed with regard to the number of days up to the game. Volume and intensity parameters were calculated as a percentage of the subsequent match load. Results: Significant differences were found between MD-1 and MD-2, as well as between MD-1 and MD-3 for most volume parameters (P < 0.01; effect sizes [ESs] 0.68-0.99) and high-intensity distance (P < 0.002; ES 0.67 and 0.73) and maximum velocity (P < 0.002; ES 0.82) as intensity parameters. Most cumulative values were significantly different from total duration (P < 0.001, common language ES 0.80-0.96). Conclusion: The training volume gradually decreased as match day approached, with the highest volume occurring on MD-3. Intensity variables, such as maximum velocity, high-intensity accelerations, and meterage per minute were larger in MD-1 training relative to match load. Training volume was lowest in MD-1 trainings and highest in MD-3 trainings; intensity however varies between training days. Clinical Relevance: The findings of this study may help to understand the special preparational demands of international matches, highlighting the role of decreased training volume and increased intensity. © 2021 The Author(s).
Reliability of the ICECAP-O quality of life scale with community-dwelling people with dementia
- Bibi, Iram, Polman, Remco, Nyman, Samuel
- Authors: Bibi, Iram , Polman, Remco , Nyman, Samuel
- Date: 2022
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Gerontology and Geriatric Medicine Vol. 8, no. (2022), p.
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- Description: Currently, measures of quality of life used with older people with dementia (PWD) are mainly health related. Health is not an actual attribute of but a means to attain quality of life. The Investigating Choice Experiments for the Preferences of Older People - CAPability index (ICECAP-O) measures attributes of quality of life. While its construct validity has been tested with PWD, no study has yet published data on the reliability of this scale used directly with PWD. In this study, we tested the external (test-retest) reliability of the ICECAP-O with 54 community-dwelling older PWD from the south of England. The ICECAP-O had acceptable test-retest reliability (r =.68, p <.01 and r =.56, p <.01 for raw and tariff scores, respectively). This suggests that the ICECAP-O is both a reliable and valid measure of quality of life for use directly with community-dwelling PWD. © The Author(s) 2022.
- Authors: Bibi, Iram , Polman, Remco , Nyman, Samuel
- Date: 2022
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Gerontology and Geriatric Medicine Vol. 8, no. (2022), p.
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- Description: Currently, measures of quality of life used with older people with dementia (PWD) are mainly health related. Health is not an actual attribute of but a means to attain quality of life. The Investigating Choice Experiments for the Preferences of Older People - CAPability index (ICECAP-O) measures attributes of quality of life. While its construct validity has been tested with PWD, no study has yet published data on the reliability of this scale used directly with PWD. In this study, we tested the external (test-retest) reliability of the ICECAP-O with 54 community-dwelling older PWD from the south of England. The ICECAP-O had acceptable test-retest reliability (r =.68, p <.01 and r =.56, p <.01 for raw and tariff scores, respectively). This suggests that the ICECAP-O is both a reliable and valid measure of quality of life for use directly with community-dwelling PWD. © The Author(s) 2022.
Review article : use of the team emergency assessment measure in the rating of emergency teams' non-technical skills : a mapping review
- Cooper, Simon, Connell, Clifford, Cant, Robyn
- Authors: Cooper, Simon , Connell, Clifford , Cant, Robyn
- Date: 2023
- Type: Text , Journal article , Review
- Relation: EMA - Emergency Medicine Australasia Vol. 35, no. 3 (2023), p. 375-383
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- Description: The present study aims to explore the utility of the Team Emergency Assessment Measure (TEAM) in relation to the enhancement of emergency team non-technical skills based on research conducted over the last decade. In this mapping review, a citation mining process identified 22 primary studies for inclusion, published between 2012 and 2022. It provides outcome data on emergency teams' non-technical skills following team training and/or real-life patient emergencies. Emergency team studies related to resuscitation teams (adult, paediatric, newborn and obstetric cases) and medical emergency team (MET) management of patient deterioration. Team performance ratings varied, ranging from approximately 90% for experienced clinical teams down to 38% for students. Statistically significant improvements in performance were notable following training and/or repeated practice. Validity evidence, across 11 studies that provided change data described positive learning outcomes and moderate intervention effects. However, according to Kirkpatrick's model of educational evaluation the studies were limited to professional development phases of learning and immediate post-training assessments rather than care quality improvement. The review highlights a lack of studies evidencing quality improvement or clinical impact such as change of patient care practice or health service performance. There is a need to conduct well-designed studies that explore both technical and non-technical skills of resuscitation teams and METs. Currently, non-technical skills training and repeated performance evaluations using the TEAM contribute immensely to the proficiency of emergency teams. © 2023 The Authors. Emergency Medicine Australasia published by John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd on behalf of Australasian College for Emergency Medicine.
- Authors: Cooper, Simon , Connell, Clifford , Cant, Robyn
- Date: 2023
- Type: Text , Journal article , Review
- Relation: EMA - Emergency Medicine Australasia Vol. 35, no. 3 (2023), p. 375-383
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: The present study aims to explore the utility of the Team Emergency Assessment Measure (TEAM) in relation to the enhancement of emergency team non-technical skills based on research conducted over the last decade. In this mapping review, a citation mining process identified 22 primary studies for inclusion, published between 2012 and 2022. It provides outcome data on emergency teams' non-technical skills following team training and/or real-life patient emergencies. Emergency team studies related to resuscitation teams (adult, paediatric, newborn and obstetric cases) and medical emergency team (MET) management of patient deterioration. Team performance ratings varied, ranging from approximately 90% for experienced clinical teams down to 38% for students. Statistically significant improvements in performance were notable following training and/or repeated practice. Validity evidence, across 11 studies that provided change data described positive learning outcomes and moderate intervention effects. However, according to Kirkpatrick's model of educational evaluation the studies were limited to professional development phases of learning and immediate post-training assessments rather than care quality improvement. The review highlights a lack of studies evidencing quality improvement or clinical impact such as change of patient care practice or health service performance. There is a need to conduct well-designed studies that explore both technical and non-technical skills of resuscitation teams and METs. Currently, non-technical skills training and repeated performance evaluations using the TEAM contribute immensely to the proficiency of emergency teams. © 2023 The Authors. Emergency Medicine Australasia published by John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd on behalf of Australasian College for Emergency Medicine.
Self-assembled peptide habitats to model tumor metastasis
- Al Balushi, Noora, Boyd-Moss, Mitchell, Samarasinghe, Rasika, Rifai, Aaqil, Franks, Stephanie, Firipis, Kate, Long, Benjamin, Darby, Ian, Nisbet, David, Pouniotis, Dodie, Williams, Richard
- Authors: Al Balushi, Noora , Boyd-Moss, Mitchell , Samarasinghe, Rasika , Rifai, Aaqil , Franks, Stephanie , Firipis, Kate , Long, Benjamin , Darby, Ian , Nisbet, David , Pouniotis, Dodie , Williams, Richard
- Date: 2022
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Gels Vol. 8, no. 6 (2022), p.
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- Description: Metastatic tumours are complex ecosystems; a community of multiple cell types, including cancerous cells, fibroblasts, and immune cells that exist within a supportive and specific microenvironment. The interplay of these cells, together with tissue specific chemical, structural and temporal signals within a three-dimensional (3D) habitat, direct tumour cell behavior, a subtlety that can be easily lost in 2D tissue culture. Here, we investigate a significantly improved tool, consisting of a novel matrix of functionally programmed peptide sequences, self-assembled into a scaffold to enable the growth and the migration of multicellular lung tumour spheroids, as proof-of-concept. This 3D functional model aims to mimic the biological, chemical, and contextual cues of an in vivo tumor more closely than a typically used, unstructured hydrogel, allowing spatial and temporal activity modelling. This approach shows promise as a cancer model, enhancing current understandings of how tumours progress and spread over time within their microenvironment. © 2022 by the authors. Licensee MDPI, Basel, Switzerland.
- Authors: Al Balushi, Noora , Boyd-Moss, Mitchell , Samarasinghe, Rasika , Rifai, Aaqil , Franks, Stephanie , Firipis, Kate , Long, Benjamin , Darby, Ian , Nisbet, David , Pouniotis, Dodie , Williams, Richard
- Date: 2022
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Gels Vol. 8, no. 6 (2022), p.
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Metastatic tumours are complex ecosystems; a community of multiple cell types, including cancerous cells, fibroblasts, and immune cells that exist within a supportive and specific microenvironment. The interplay of these cells, together with tissue specific chemical, structural and temporal signals within a three-dimensional (3D) habitat, direct tumour cell behavior, a subtlety that can be easily lost in 2D tissue culture. Here, we investigate a significantly improved tool, consisting of a novel matrix of functionally programmed peptide sequences, self-assembled into a scaffold to enable the growth and the migration of multicellular lung tumour spheroids, as proof-of-concept. This 3D functional model aims to mimic the biological, chemical, and contextual cues of an in vivo tumor more closely than a typically used, unstructured hydrogel, allowing spatial and temporal activity modelling. This approach shows promise as a cancer model, enhancing current understandings of how tumours progress and spread over time within their microenvironment. © 2022 by the authors. Licensee MDPI, Basel, Switzerland.
Self-efficacy, grit and perceptions of rural employment : what changes occur after graduation?
- Terry, Daniel, Peck, Blake, Baker, Ed
- Authors: Terry, Daniel , Peck, Blake , Baker, Ed
- Date: 2021
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Online journal of rural nursing and health care Vol. 21, no. 2 (2021), p. 44-68
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- Description: Purpose: General self-efficacy, occupational self-efficacy, and grit have a correlation with academic and practical success amongst nursing students. The role of these same characteristics during the first 18-24 months following the transition from student to nurse is poorly understood. In addition, when a nursing graduate begins to consider a career in a rural area is also remains unclear. This study sought to understand the change, if any, in general self-efficacy, occupational self-efficacy, grit, and rural employment importance that occurred during this transition period. Sample: Nurses after graduating from a three-year Bachelor of Nursing degree (n=28). Method: A follow-up study of a larger longitudinal mixed-methods cohort design used a survey to examine general self-efficacy, occupational self-efficacy, grit, and rural employment importance among novice nurses. Participants had agreed when completing the initial study as students to participate in a follow-up study 18-24-months after graduating. Findings: Occupational self-efficacy increased as the cohort transitioned from student to professional nurse, while grit was remarkably lower between final year students and novice nurses. No change in earlier measures of general self-efficacy or importance placed on rural careers were detected. Conclusions: Following graduation, new clinicians are focused on building professional identity and the development of foundational skills for practice. Clinical agencies have an opportunity to shift the balance between autonomy and support in order to harness these key characteristics in an effort to improve the longevity and progression of nursing graduates within the nursing profession.
- Authors: Terry, Daniel , Peck, Blake , Baker, Ed
- Date: 2021
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Online journal of rural nursing and health care Vol. 21, no. 2 (2021), p. 44-68
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Purpose: General self-efficacy, occupational self-efficacy, and grit have a correlation with academic and practical success amongst nursing students. The role of these same characteristics during the first 18-24 months following the transition from student to nurse is poorly understood. In addition, when a nursing graduate begins to consider a career in a rural area is also remains unclear. This study sought to understand the change, if any, in general self-efficacy, occupational self-efficacy, grit, and rural employment importance that occurred during this transition period. Sample: Nurses after graduating from a three-year Bachelor of Nursing degree (n=28). Method: A follow-up study of a larger longitudinal mixed-methods cohort design used a survey to examine general self-efficacy, occupational self-efficacy, grit, and rural employment importance among novice nurses. Participants had agreed when completing the initial study as students to participate in a follow-up study 18-24-months after graduating. Findings: Occupational self-efficacy increased as the cohort transitioned from student to professional nurse, while grit was remarkably lower between final year students and novice nurses. No change in earlier measures of general self-efficacy or importance placed on rural careers were detected. Conclusions: Following graduation, new clinicians are focused on building professional identity and the development of foundational skills for practice. Clinical agencies have an opportunity to shift the balance between autonomy and support in order to harness these key characteristics in an effort to improve the longevity and progression of nursing graduates within the nursing profession.
Self-reported wellness profiles of professional australian football players during the competition phase of the season
- Gallo, Tania, Cormack, Stuart, Gabbett, Tim, Lorenzen, Christian
- Authors: Gallo, Tania , Cormack, Stuart , Gabbett, Tim , Lorenzen, Christian
- Date: 2017
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research Vol. 31, no. 2 (2017), p. 495-502
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- Description: With the prevalence of customized self-report measures in high-performance sport, and the incomplete understanding of athletes' perceived wellness in response to matches and training load, the objective of this study was to explore weekly wellness profiles within the context of the competitive season of professional Australian football. Internal match load, measured through the session-rating of perceived exertion method, match-to-match microcycle, stage of the season, and training load were included in multivariate linear models to determine their effect on weekly wellness profile (n = 1,835). There was a lower weekly training load on a 6-day microcycle compared with a 7-day and 8-day microcycle. Match load had no significant impact on weekly wellness profile, while there was an interaction between microcycle and days postmatch. There was a likely moderately lower wellness Z-score 1 day postmatch for an 8-day microcycle (mean; 95% confidence interval: -1.79; -2.02 to -1.56) compared with a 6-day (-1.19; -1.30 to -1.08) and 7-day (-1.22; -1.34 to -1.09) cycle (d; 95% confidence interval: -0.82; -1.3 to -0.36, -0.78; -1.3 to -0.28, respectively). The second half of the season saw a possibly small reduction in overall wellness Z-score than the first half of the season (0.22; 0.12-0.32). Finally, training load had no effect on wellness Z-score when controlled for days postmatch, microcycle, and stage of the season. These results provide information on the status of players in response to matches and fixed conditions. Knowing when wellness Z-score returns to baseline relative to the length of the microcycle may lead practitioners to prescribe the heaviest load of the week accordingly. Furthermore, wellness "red flags" should be made relative to the microcycles and stage of the season to determine an athlete's status relative to their typical weekly profile. © 2016 National Strength and Conditioning Association.
- Authors: Gallo, Tania , Cormack, Stuart , Gabbett, Tim , Lorenzen, Christian
- Date: 2017
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research Vol. 31, no. 2 (2017), p. 495-502
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: With the prevalence of customized self-report measures in high-performance sport, and the incomplete understanding of athletes' perceived wellness in response to matches and training load, the objective of this study was to explore weekly wellness profiles within the context of the competitive season of professional Australian football. Internal match load, measured through the session-rating of perceived exertion method, match-to-match microcycle, stage of the season, and training load were included in multivariate linear models to determine their effect on weekly wellness profile (n = 1,835). There was a lower weekly training load on a 6-day microcycle compared with a 7-day and 8-day microcycle. Match load had no significant impact on weekly wellness profile, while there was an interaction between microcycle and days postmatch. There was a likely moderately lower wellness Z-score 1 day postmatch for an 8-day microcycle (mean; 95% confidence interval: -1.79; -2.02 to -1.56) compared with a 6-day (-1.19; -1.30 to -1.08) and 7-day (-1.22; -1.34 to -1.09) cycle (d; 95% confidence interval: -0.82; -1.3 to -0.36, -0.78; -1.3 to -0.28, respectively). The second half of the season saw a possibly small reduction in overall wellness Z-score than the first half of the season (0.22; 0.12-0.32). Finally, training load had no effect on wellness Z-score when controlled for days postmatch, microcycle, and stage of the season. These results provide information on the status of players in response to matches and fixed conditions. Knowing when wellness Z-score returns to baseline relative to the length of the microcycle may lead practitioners to prescribe the heaviest load of the week accordingly. Furthermore, wellness "red flags" should be made relative to the microcycles and stage of the season to determine an athlete's status relative to their typical weekly profile. © 2016 National Strength and Conditioning Association.
Serum antinuclear autoantibodies are associated with measures of oxidative stress and lifestyle factors : analysis of LIPIDOGRAM2015 and LIPIDOGEN2015 studies
- Krzemień, Pawel, Kasperczyk, S, Banach, Maciej, Kasperczyk, Aleksandra, Dobrakowski, Michal, Tomasik, Tomasz, Windak, Adam, Mastej, Miroslaw, Catapano, Alberico, Ray, Kausik, Mikhailidis, Dimitri, Toth, Peter, Howard, George, Lip, Gregory, Tomaszewski, Maciej, Charchar, Fadi, Sattar, Naveed, Williams, Bryan, MacDonald, Thomas, Penson, Peter, Jóźwiak, Jacek
- Authors: Krzemień, Pawel , Kasperczyk, S , Banach, Maciej , Kasperczyk, Aleksandra , Dobrakowski, Michal , Tomasik, Tomasz , Windak, Adam , Mastej, Miroslaw , Catapano, Alberico , Ray, Kausik , Mikhailidis, Dimitri , Toth, Peter , Howard, George , Lip, Gregory , Tomaszewski, Maciej , Charchar, Fadi , Sattar, Naveed , Williams, Bryan , MacDonald, Thomas , Penson, Peter , Jóźwiak, Jacek
- Date: 2023
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Archives of Medical Science Vol. 19, no. 5 (2023), p. 1214-1227
- Full Text:
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- Description: Introduction: Oxidative stress is one of many factors suspected to promote antinuclear autoantibody (ANA) formation. Reactive oxygen species can induce changes in the antigenic structure of macromolecules, causing the immune system to treat them as “neo-antigens” and start production of autoantibodies. This study was designed to evaluate the relationship between oxidative stress markers, lifestyle factors and the detection of ANA. Material and methods: We examined measures of oxidative stress indices of free-radical damage to lipids and proteins, such as total oxidant status (TOS), concentration of protein thiol groups (PSH), and malondialdehyde (MDA), activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) in 1731 serum samples. The parameters of the non-enzymatic antioxidant system, such as total antioxidant status (TAS) and uric acid (UA) concentration, were also measured and the oxidative stress index (OSI-index) was calculated. All samples were tested for the presence of ANA using an indirect immunofluorescence assay (IIFA). Results: The presence of ANA in women was associated with lower physical activity (p = 0.036), less frequent smoking (p = 0.007) and drinking of alcohol (p = 0.024) accompanied by significant changes in SOD isoenzymes activity (p < 0.001) and a higher uric acid (UA) concentration (p < 0.001). In ANA positive males we observed lower concentrations of PSH (p = 0.046) and increased concentrations of MDA (p = 0.047). Conclusions: The results indicate that local oxidative stress may be associated with increased probability of ANA formation in a sex-specific manner. © 2021 Termedia & Banach.
- Authors: Krzemień, Pawel , Kasperczyk, S , Banach, Maciej , Kasperczyk, Aleksandra , Dobrakowski, Michal , Tomasik, Tomasz , Windak, Adam , Mastej, Miroslaw , Catapano, Alberico , Ray, Kausik , Mikhailidis, Dimitri , Toth, Peter , Howard, George , Lip, Gregory , Tomaszewski, Maciej , Charchar, Fadi , Sattar, Naveed , Williams, Bryan , MacDonald, Thomas , Penson, Peter , Jóźwiak, Jacek
- Date: 2023
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Archives of Medical Science Vol. 19, no. 5 (2023), p. 1214-1227
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Introduction: Oxidative stress is one of many factors suspected to promote antinuclear autoantibody (ANA) formation. Reactive oxygen species can induce changes in the antigenic structure of macromolecules, causing the immune system to treat them as “neo-antigens” and start production of autoantibodies. This study was designed to evaluate the relationship between oxidative stress markers, lifestyle factors and the detection of ANA. Material and methods: We examined measures of oxidative stress indices of free-radical damage to lipids and proteins, such as total oxidant status (TOS), concentration of protein thiol groups (PSH), and malondialdehyde (MDA), activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) in 1731 serum samples. The parameters of the non-enzymatic antioxidant system, such as total antioxidant status (TAS) and uric acid (UA) concentration, were also measured and the oxidative stress index (OSI-index) was calculated. All samples were tested for the presence of ANA using an indirect immunofluorescence assay (IIFA). Results: The presence of ANA in women was associated with lower physical activity (p = 0.036), less frequent smoking (p = 0.007) and drinking of alcohol (p = 0.024) accompanied by significant changes in SOD isoenzymes activity (p < 0.001) and a higher uric acid (UA) concentration (p < 0.001). In ANA positive males we observed lower concentrations of PSH (p = 0.046) and increased concentrations of MDA (p = 0.047). Conclusions: The results indicate that local oxidative stress may be associated with increased probability of ANA formation in a sex-specific manner. © 2021 Termedia & Banach.
Short-term effect of additional daily dietary fibre intake on appetite, satiety, gastrointestinal comfort, acceptability, and feasibility
- Borkoles, Erika, Krastins, Digby, van der Pols, Jolieke, Sims, Paul, Polman, Remco
- Authors: Borkoles, Erika , Krastins, Digby , van der Pols, Jolieke , Sims, Paul , Polman, Remco
- Date: 2022
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Nutrients Vol. 14, no. 19 (2022), p.
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- Description: Background: There is evidence that high-fibre diets have significant health benefits, although the effect of increasing fibre on individuals’ appetite, satiety, and gastrointestinal comfort is not well established, nor is its acceptability and feasibility. Methods: This mixed-methods feasibility randomised control trial included 38 participants allocated to one of three conditions: FibreMAX (two daily servings of 25 g of BARLEYmax®), FibreGRAD (two daily servings with the amount of fibre gradually increased), and Control (two daily servings totalling 25 g of placebo product). Participants completed a food diary at baseline. The Hunger and Fullness Questionnaire and questions regarding gastrointestinal response were completed at baseline and at the end of each week. Participants completed the acceptability of intervention measure and engaged in a semi-structured interview, following trial completion. Results: The qualitative data suggested that increased fibre influenced appetite and fullness perceptions. Baseline fibre consumption and the method of increased fibre increase did not influence our findings. The qualitative results also indicated that the fibre intake was perceived as beneficial to well-being; it influenced feelings of hunger and caused some minor acute gastrointestinal symptoms that dissipated after a short adaption period. Conclusion: This study suggests that increasing fibre intake through BARLEYmax® is a safe intervention that is acceptable to participants. © 2022 by the authors.
- Authors: Borkoles, Erika , Krastins, Digby , van der Pols, Jolieke , Sims, Paul , Polman, Remco
- Date: 2022
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Nutrients Vol. 14, no. 19 (2022), p.
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Background: There is evidence that high-fibre diets have significant health benefits, although the effect of increasing fibre on individuals’ appetite, satiety, and gastrointestinal comfort is not well established, nor is its acceptability and feasibility. Methods: This mixed-methods feasibility randomised control trial included 38 participants allocated to one of three conditions: FibreMAX (two daily servings of 25 g of BARLEYmax®), FibreGRAD (two daily servings with the amount of fibre gradually increased), and Control (two daily servings totalling 25 g of placebo product). Participants completed a food diary at baseline. The Hunger and Fullness Questionnaire and questions regarding gastrointestinal response were completed at baseline and at the end of each week. Participants completed the acceptability of intervention measure and engaged in a semi-structured interview, following trial completion. Results: The qualitative data suggested that increased fibre influenced appetite and fullness perceptions. Baseline fibre consumption and the method of increased fibre increase did not influence our findings. The qualitative results also indicated that the fibre intake was perceived as beneficial to well-being; it influenced feelings of hunger and caused some minor acute gastrointestinal symptoms that dissipated after a short adaption period. Conclusion: This study suggests that increasing fibre intake through BARLEYmax® is a safe intervention that is acceptable to participants. © 2022 by the authors.
Social identification, exercise participation, and positive exercise experiences : evidence from parkrun
- Stevens, Mark, Rees, Tim, Polman, Remco
- Authors: Stevens, Mark , Rees, Tim , Polman, Remco
- Date: 2019
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Journal of Sports Sciences Vol. 37, no. 2 (2019), p. 221-228
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- Description: Growing evidence suggests that social identities may have profound implications for physical activity participation. Real-world examinations of this relationship have, however, been lacking, with research predominantly examining intentions and hypothetical scenarios. To address this shortcoming and further advance understanding in this area, the present study tested relationships between group identification, participation, two exercise-specific outcomes (exercise-specific satisfaction and group cohesion), and a broad health indicator (life satisfaction) among individuals recruited from parkrun. Participants (N = 289) completed questionnaires measuring all variables except participants’ parkrun participation, which was objectively assessed. Structural equation modeling demonstrated that group identification was significantly associated with greater participation, exercise-specific satisfaction, group cohesion, and life satisfaction. Findings provide real-world evidence of the health-related benefits associated with forming strong social identities in exercise settings. © 2018, © 2018 Informa UK Limited, trading as Taylor & Francis Group.
- Authors: Stevens, Mark , Rees, Tim , Polman, Remco
- Date: 2019
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Journal of Sports Sciences Vol. 37, no. 2 (2019), p. 221-228
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Growing evidence suggests that social identities may have profound implications for physical activity participation. Real-world examinations of this relationship have, however, been lacking, with research predominantly examining intentions and hypothetical scenarios. To address this shortcoming and further advance understanding in this area, the present study tested relationships between group identification, participation, two exercise-specific outcomes (exercise-specific satisfaction and group cohesion), and a broad health indicator (life satisfaction) among individuals recruited from parkrun. Participants (N = 289) completed questionnaires measuring all variables except participants’ parkrun participation, which was objectively assessed. Structural equation modeling demonstrated that group identification was significantly associated with greater participation, exercise-specific satisfaction, group cohesion, and life satisfaction. Findings provide real-world evidence of the health-related benefits associated with forming strong social identities in exercise settings. © 2018, © 2018 Informa UK Limited, trading as Taylor & Francis Group.
Surveillance for soil-transmitted helminths in high-risk county, Mississippi, USA
- Bradbury, Richard, Martin, Lora, Malloch, Lacy, Martin, Maygan, Williams, John, Patterson, Kayla, Sanders, Cameron, Singh, Gurbaksh, Arguello, Irene, Rodriguez, Eduardo, Byers, Paul, Haynie, Lisa, Qvarnstrom, Yvonne, Hobbs, Charlotte
- Authors: Bradbury, Richard , Martin, Lora , Malloch, Lacy , Martin, Maygan , Williams, John , Patterson, Kayla , Sanders, Cameron , Singh, Gurbaksh , Arguello, Irene , Rodriguez, Eduardo , Byers, Paul , Haynie, Lisa , Qvarnstrom, Yvonne , Hobbs, Charlotte
- Date: 2023
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Emerging Infectious Diseases Vol. 29, no. 12 (2023), p. 2533-2537
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- Description: Recent reports of hookworm infection in Alabama, USA, has prompted surveillance in Mississippi, given the states’ similar environmental conditions. We collected stool specimens from 277 children in Rankin County, Mississippi. Kato–Katz microscopic smear, agar plate culture, and quantitative PCR indicated no soil-transmitted helminths. Nevertheless, further surveillance in other high-risk Mississippi counties is warranted. © 2023 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). All rights reserved.
- Authors: Bradbury, Richard , Martin, Lora , Malloch, Lacy , Martin, Maygan , Williams, John , Patterson, Kayla , Sanders, Cameron , Singh, Gurbaksh , Arguello, Irene , Rodriguez, Eduardo , Byers, Paul , Haynie, Lisa , Qvarnstrom, Yvonne , Hobbs, Charlotte
- Date: 2023
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Emerging Infectious Diseases Vol. 29, no. 12 (2023), p. 2533-2537
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Recent reports of hookworm infection in Alabama, USA, has prompted surveillance in Mississippi, given the states’ similar environmental conditions. We collected stool specimens from 277 children in Rankin County, Mississippi. Kato–Katz microscopic smear, agar plate culture, and quantitative PCR indicated no soil-transmitted helminths. Nevertheless, further surveillance in other high-risk Mississippi counties is warranted. © 2023 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). All rights reserved.
Tapeworm Enigma
- Breedlove, Byron, Bradbury, Richard
- Authors: Breedlove, Byron , Bradbury, Richard
- Date: 2022
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Emerging Infectious Diseases Vol. 28, no. 6 (2022), p. 1306-1308
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- Authors: Breedlove, Byron , Bradbury, Richard
- Date: 2022
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Emerging Infectious Diseases Vol. 28, no. 6 (2022), p. 1306-1308
- Full Text:
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The combined effect of cranial-nerve non-invasive neuromodulation with high-intensity physiotherapy on gait and balance in a patient with cerebellar degeneration: a case report
- Bastani, Andisheh, Cofré Lizama, L. Eduardo, Zoghi, Maryam, Blashki, Grant, Davis, Stephen, Kaye, Andrew, Khan, Fary, Galea, Mary
- Authors: Bastani, Andisheh , Cofré Lizama, L. Eduardo , Zoghi, Maryam , Blashki, Grant , Davis, Stephen , Kaye, Andrew , Khan, Fary , Galea, Mary
- Date: 2018
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Cerebellum Ataxias Vol. 5, no. 1 (2018), p. 6
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- Description: Cranial-nerve non-invasive neuromodulation (CN-NINM) using the portable neuromodulation stimulator (PoNS™ device has been proposed as a novel adjuvant intervention to improve efficacy of gait and balance. This device modulates input and output signals during motor tasks which prompts neuroplastic changes. In this study, we investigated the efficacy of physiotherapy using the PoNS™ in a case with cerebellar degeneration. The PoNS™ was used during a high-intensity physiotherapy programme delivered over 2 weeks (2 × 1.5 h sessions daily). Clinical and instrumented gait and balance tests were applied pre- and post-intervention. The patient improved in all tests without any adverse effects. This study showed the efficacy and feasibility of combined high-intensity physiotherapy and CN-NINM for gait and balance rehabilitation. Further studies should explore CN-NINM effects in larger and more diverse samples of neurological patients.
- Authors: Bastani, Andisheh , Cofré Lizama, L. Eduardo , Zoghi, Maryam , Blashki, Grant , Davis, Stephen , Kaye, Andrew , Khan, Fary , Galea, Mary
- Date: 2018
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Cerebellum Ataxias Vol. 5, no. 1 (2018), p. 6
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Cranial-nerve non-invasive neuromodulation (CN-NINM) using the portable neuromodulation stimulator (PoNS™ device has been proposed as a novel adjuvant intervention to improve efficacy of gait and balance. This device modulates input and output signals during motor tasks which prompts neuroplastic changes. In this study, we investigated the efficacy of physiotherapy using the PoNS™ in a case with cerebellar degeneration. The PoNS™ was used during a high-intensity physiotherapy programme delivered over 2 weeks (2 × 1.5 h sessions daily). Clinical and instrumented gait and balance tests were applied pre- and post-intervention. The patient improved in all tests without any adverse effects. This study showed the efficacy and feasibility of combined high-intensity physiotherapy and CN-NINM for gait and balance rehabilitation. Further studies should explore CN-NINM effects in larger and more diverse samples of neurological patients.
The effect of an 8 week prescribed exercise and low-carbohydrate diet on cardiorespiratory fitness, body composition and cardiometabolic risk factors in obese individuals: A randomised controlled trial
- Perissiou, Maria, Borkoles, Erika, Kobayashi, Kent, Polman, Remco
- Authors: Perissiou, Maria , Borkoles, Erika , Kobayashi, Kent , Polman, Remco
- Date: 2020
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Nutrients Vol. 12, no. 2 (2020), p. 482
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- Reviewed:
- Description: Low-carbohydrate (LC) diets are an effective method for treating obesity and reducing cardiometabolic risk. However, exposure to LC diets is associated with reductions in muscle mass and increased osteoporosis risk in obese individuals. The combination of exercise with a LC diet appears to attenuate muscle mass loss induced by LC diets alone, and to further improve cardiometabolic profile. However, evidence to date in obese individuals is limited. We assessed the effect of LC diet in combination with supervised exercise on cardiorespiratory fitness, body composition and cardiometabolic risk factors in obese individuals. Male and female participants in the experimental (EX-LC structured supervised exercise program + low-carbohydrate meals n = 33 35.3 years) and control (EX-CO structured supervised exercise program + standard dietary advice n = 31 34.2 years) conditions underwent measurements of cardiorespiratory fitness ( O peak), body fat, lean muscle mass (LMM), and cardiometabolic biomarkers before and after an 8 week intervention. : Participants in the EX-LC condition demonstrated greater improvements in O peak ( = 0.002) and fat mass index (FMI, = 0.001) compared to the EX-CO condition. Achieving a ketogenic state (β-hydroxybutyrate, βHB ≥0.3 mmol/L) was associated with greater reductions in total body fat ( = 0.011), visceral adipose tissue ( = 0.025), FMI ( = 0.002) and C-reactive protein (CRP, = 0.041) but also with greater reductions in LMM ( = 0.042). : Short-term LC diet combined with prescribed exercise enhanced cardiorespiratory fitness and the cardiometabolic profile of obese individuals but was also associated with greater muscle mass loss compared to similar exercise training and standard dietary advice. The long-term effects of the LC diet should be further explored in future studies.
- Authors: Perissiou, Maria , Borkoles, Erika , Kobayashi, Kent , Polman, Remco
- Date: 2020
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Nutrients Vol. 12, no. 2 (2020), p. 482
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Low-carbohydrate (LC) diets are an effective method for treating obesity and reducing cardiometabolic risk. However, exposure to LC diets is associated with reductions in muscle mass and increased osteoporosis risk in obese individuals. The combination of exercise with a LC diet appears to attenuate muscle mass loss induced by LC diets alone, and to further improve cardiometabolic profile. However, evidence to date in obese individuals is limited. We assessed the effect of LC diet in combination with supervised exercise on cardiorespiratory fitness, body composition and cardiometabolic risk factors in obese individuals. Male and female participants in the experimental (EX-LC structured supervised exercise program + low-carbohydrate meals n = 33 35.3 years) and control (EX-CO structured supervised exercise program + standard dietary advice n = 31 34.2 years) conditions underwent measurements of cardiorespiratory fitness ( O peak), body fat, lean muscle mass (LMM), and cardiometabolic biomarkers before and after an 8 week intervention. : Participants in the EX-LC condition demonstrated greater improvements in O peak ( = 0.002) and fat mass index (FMI, = 0.001) compared to the EX-CO condition. Achieving a ketogenic state (β-hydroxybutyrate, βHB ≥0.3 mmol/L) was associated with greater reductions in total body fat ( = 0.011), visceral adipose tissue ( = 0.025), FMI ( = 0.002) and C-reactive protein (CRP, = 0.041) but also with greater reductions in LMM ( = 0.042). : Short-term LC diet combined with prescribed exercise enhanced cardiorespiratory fitness and the cardiometabolic profile of obese individuals but was also associated with greater muscle mass loss compared to similar exercise training and standard dietary advice. The long-term effects of the LC diet should be further explored in future studies.
The effects of α-lactalbumin supplementation and handgrip contraction on soleus motoneuron excitability
- Mackay-Phillips, Karen, Orssatto, Lucas, Polman, Remco, Van der Pols, Jolieke, Trajano, Gabriel
- Authors: Mackay-Phillips, Karen , Orssatto, Lucas , Polman, Remco , Van der Pols, Jolieke , Trajano, Gabriel
- Date: 2023
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: European Journal of Applied Physiology Vol. 123, no. 2 (2023), p. 395-404
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Introduction: We tested two strategies that hypothetically increase serotonin availability (
- Description: Introduction: We tested two strategies that hypothetically increase serotonin availability (α-lactalbumin consumption and a remote submaximal handgrip contraction) on estimates of persistent inward currents (PICs) amplitude of soleus muscle in healthy participants. Methods: With a randomised, double-blind, and cross-over design, 13 healthy participants performed triangular-shaped ramp contractions with their plantar flexors (20% of maximal torque), followed by a 30-s handgrip sustained contraction (40% of maximal force) and consecutive repeated triangular-shaped contractions. This was performed before and after the consumption of either 40 g of α-lactalbumin, an isonitrogenous beverage (Zein) or an isocaloric beverage (Corn-starch). Soleus motor units discharge rates were analysed from high-density surface electromyography signals. PICs were estimated by calculating the delta frequency (ΔF) of motor unit train spikes using the paired motor unit technique. Results: ΔF (0.19 pps; p = 0.001; d = 0.30) and peak discharge rate (0.20 pps; p < 0.001; d = 0.37) increased after the handgrip contraction, irrespective of the consumed supplement. No effects of α-lactalbumin were observed. Conclusions: Our results indicate that 40 g of α-lactalbumin was unable to modify intrinsic motoneuron excitability. However, performing a submaximal handgrip contraction before the plantar flexion triangular contraction was capable of increasing ΔF and discharge rates on soleus motor units. These findings highlight the diffused effects of serotonergic input, its effects on motoneuron discharge behaviour, and suggest a cross-effector effect within human motoneurons. © 2022, The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature. Erratum: Correction to: The effects of α‑lactalbumin supplementation and handgrip contraction on soleus motoneuron excitability - The original version of this article unfortunately contained a mistake. The corrected details are given below for your reading. The author’s name Karen Mackay-Phillips was incorrectly written as Karen Mackay Phillips. In section “Overview”, first sentence should read as “The current study was part of an experiment that has been divided in two parts, where some variables are presented in a companion paper (https:// doi. org/ 10. 1007/ s00421- 022- 05103-1).”. © 2022 Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature.
- Authors: Mackay-Phillips, Karen , Orssatto, Lucas , Polman, Remco , Van der Pols, Jolieke , Trajano, Gabriel
- Date: 2023
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: European Journal of Applied Physiology Vol. 123, no. 2 (2023), p. 395-404
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Introduction: We tested two strategies that hypothetically increase serotonin availability (
- Description: Introduction: We tested two strategies that hypothetically increase serotonin availability (α-lactalbumin consumption and a remote submaximal handgrip contraction) on estimates of persistent inward currents (PICs) amplitude of soleus muscle in healthy participants. Methods: With a randomised, double-blind, and cross-over design, 13 healthy participants performed triangular-shaped ramp contractions with their plantar flexors (20% of maximal torque), followed by a 30-s handgrip sustained contraction (40% of maximal force) and consecutive repeated triangular-shaped contractions. This was performed before and after the consumption of either 40 g of α-lactalbumin, an isonitrogenous beverage (Zein) or an isocaloric beverage (Corn-starch). Soleus motor units discharge rates were analysed from high-density surface electromyography signals. PICs were estimated by calculating the delta frequency (ΔF) of motor unit train spikes using the paired motor unit technique. Results: ΔF (0.19 pps; p = 0.001; d = 0.30) and peak discharge rate (0.20 pps; p < 0.001; d = 0.37) increased after the handgrip contraction, irrespective of the consumed supplement. No effects of α-lactalbumin were observed. Conclusions: Our results indicate that 40 g of α-lactalbumin was unable to modify intrinsic motoneuron excitability. However, performing a submaximal handgrip contraction before the plantar flexion triangular contraction was capable of increasing ΔF and discharge rates on soleus motor units. These findings highlight the diffused effects of serotonergic input, its effects on motoneuron discharge behaviour, and suggest a cross-effector effect within human motoneurons. © 2022, The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature. Erratum: Correction to: The effects of α‑lactalbumin supplementation and handgrip contraction on soleus motoneuron excitability - The original version of this article unfortunately contained a mistake. The corrected details are given below for your reading. The author’s name Karen Mackay-Phillips was incorrectly written as Karen Mackay Phillips. In section “Overview”, first sentence should read as “The current study was part of an experiment that has been divided in two parts, where some variables are presented in a companion paper (https:// doi. org/ 10. 1007/ s00421- 022- 05103-1).”. © 2022 Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature.
The impact of COVID-19 restrictions on Australians' frequency and duration of participation in different types of sport and physical activity
- Eime, Rochelle, Harvey, Jack, Charity, Melanie, Pankowiak, Aurelie, Westerbeek, Hans
- Authors: Eime, Rochelle , Harvey, Jack , Charity, Melanie , Pankowiak, Aurelie , Westerbeek, Hans
- Date: 2022
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: BMC Sports Science, Medicine and Rehabilitation Vol. 14, no. 1 (2022), p.
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Background: Sports management and public health physical activity stakeholders need to understand changing patterns of participation to inform the development of sport and physical activity opportunities and strategies. This study investigated changes in the frequency and duration of participation in sport and physical activity in Australia from pre-COVID-19 to during-COVID-19, broken down by the specific type of activity and by gender, age and region. Methods: During the first pandemic restrictions and lockdowns in Australia in May–June 2020, 6140 survey respondents provided information about the types, frequency and duration of the sport and physical activity they participated in prior to and during COVID-19 restrictions. Differences between mean values were analyzed. Results: The greatest decline in participation during COVID-19 was in team sports, and the decline was greater for men than for women. Conclusion: How will sport respond to getting these men back in the game, and women back from home-based yoga and Pilates? © 2022, The Author(s).
- Authors: Eime, Rochelle , Harvey, Jack , Charity, Melanie , Pankowiak, Aurelie , Westerbeek, Hans
- Date: 2022
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: BMC Sports Science, Medicine and Rehabilitation Vol. 14, no. 1 (2022), p.
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Background: Sports management and public health physical activity stakeholders need to understand changing patterns of participation to inform the development of sport and physical activity opportunities and strategies. This study investigated changes in the frequency and duration of participation in sport and physical activity in Australia from pre-COVID-19 to during-COVID-19, broken down by the specific type of activity and by gender, age and region. Methods: During the first pandemic restrictions and lockdowns in Australia in May–June 2020, 6140 survey respondents provided information about the types, frequency and duration of the sport and physical activity they participated in prior to and during COVID-19 restrictions. Differences between mean values were analyzed. Results: The greatest decline in participation during COVID-19 was in team sports, and the decline was greater for men than for women. Conclusion: How will sport respond to getting these men back in the game, and women back from home-based yoga and Pilates? © 2022, The Author(s).
The impact of progressive overload on the proportion and frequency of positive cardio-respiratory fitness responders
- Bell, Leo, McNicol, Ashleigh, McNeil, Elizabeth, Nguyen, Huy, Hunter, Jayden, O'Brien, Brendan
- Authors: Bell, Leo , McNicol, Ashleigh , McNeil, Elizabeth , Nguyen, Huy , Hunter, Jayden , O'Brien, Brendan
- Date: 2023
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport Vol. 26, no. 10 (2023), p. 561-563
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: The proportion of individuals whose cardio-respiratory fitness change after endurance training does not exceed the test's measurement error can be 40 %. We determined if progressively increasing treadmill run intensity compared to maintaining the same run intensity, improved the responder proportion to a 6-week 20-minute treadmill training regimen. The intervention response standard deviation method estimated the proportion of responders attributable to progressively increasing run intensity. The mixed-effects model demonstrated V̇O2 peak improved significantly more in the progressive versus constant run intensity group. The proportion of V̇O2 peak responses above the smallest worthwhile change attributable to progressively increasing run intensity was 63.6 %. © 2023 The Author(s)
- Authors: Bell, Leo , McNicol, Ashleigh , McNeil, Elizabeth , Nguyen, Huy , Hunter, Jayden , O'Brien, Brendan
- Date: 2023
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport Vol. 26, no. 10 (2023), p. 561-563
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: The proportion of individuals whose cardio-respiratory fitness change after endurance training does not exceed the test's measurement error can be 40 %. We determined if progressively increasing treadmill run intensity compared to maintaining the same run intensity, improved the responder proportion to a 6-week 20-minute treadmill training regimen. The intervention response standard deviation method estimated the proportion of responders attributable to progressively increasing run intensity. The mixed-effects model demonstrated V̇O2 peak improved significantly more in the progressive versus constant run intensity group. The proportion of V̇O2 peak responses above the smallest worthwhile change attributable to progressively increasing run intensity was 63.6 %. © 2023 The Author(s)
The influence of an attachment-related stimulus on oxytocin reactivity in poly-drug users undergoing maintenance therapy compared to healthy controls
- Fuchshuber, Jürgen, Tatzer, Jasmin, Hiebler-Ragger, Michaela, Trinkl, Florian, Kimmerle, Andreas, Rinner, Anita, Buchheim, Anna, Schrom, Silke, Rinner, Beate, Leber, Klaus, Pieber, Thomas, Weiss, Elisabeth, Lewis, Andrew, Kapfhammer, Hans-Peter, Unterrainer, Human
- Authors: Fuchshuber, Jürgen , Tatzer, Jasmin , Hiebler-Ragger, Michaela , Trinkl, Florian , Kimmerle, Andreas , Rinner, Anita , Buchheim, Anna , Schrom, Silke , Rinner, Beate , Leber, Klaus , Pieber, Thomas , Weiss, Elisabeth , Lewis, Andrew , Kapfhammer, Hans-Peter , Unterrainer, Human
- Date: 2020
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Frontiers in Psychiatry Vol. 11, no. (2020), p. 460506
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Substance use disorders (SUDs) have been described as a dysfunctional way to compensate for deficiencies in that person's underlying attachment system. Furthermore, the neuropeptide oxytocin (OT), which is a critical component of the neurobiology of the attachment system, has been shown to effectively reduce addictive behavior and therefore has been discussed as a potential medication in SUD treatment. This study investigates variation in peripheral OT plasma levels as a function of exposure to an attachment-related stimulus in SUD patients compared to healthy controls (HCs). A total sample of 48 men, 24 inpatients in maintenance treatment who were diagnosed with poly-drug use disorder (PUD) and 24 HC, was investigated. A 15-min exposure to the Adult Attachment Projective Picture System (AAP) was used as an attachment-related stimulus and coded for attachment status. Blood samples before and after the AAP-assessment were taken and assayed for OT levels. Variation in baselines level of OT was examined in relation to the Alcohol, Smoking and Substance Involvement Screening Test (ASSIST), the Adult Attachment-Scale (AAS), and the Brief Symptom Inventory (BSI). Following the AAP stimulus controls showed no significant difference in OT levels elevation from baseline compared to the PUD group's OT levels. Furthermore, in the PUD group only OT-baseline-levels may be negatively associated with the AAS subscale "Comfort with Closeness" and "Anxiety" and lifetime substance use. Our results suggest that peripheral OT levels in poly-drug users undergoing maintenance treatment are not significantly different in responsiveness to an attachment related stimulus compared to HC. With regard to non-significant tendencies observed in this study which hint toward decreased OT-reactivity in the PUD group, further research is needed to explore this hypothesis with increased statistical power.
- Authors: Fuchshuber, Jürgen , Tatzer, Jasmin , Hiebler-Ragger, Michaela , Trinkl, Florian , Kimmerle, Andreas , Rinner, Anita , Buchheim, Anna , Schrom, Silke , Rinner, Beate , Leber, Klaus , Pieber, Thomas , Weiss, Elisabeth , Lewis, Andrew , Kapfhammer, Hans-Peter , Unterrainer, Human
- Date: 2020
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Frontiers in Psychiatry Vol. 11, no. (2020), p. 460506
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Substance use disorders (SUDs) have been described as a dysfunctional way to compensate for deficiencies in that person's underlying attachment system. Furthermore, the neuropeptide oxytocin (OT), which is a critical component of the neurobiology of the attachment system, has been shown to effectively reduce addictive behavior and therefore has been discussed as a potential medication in SUD treatment. This study investigates variation in peripheral OT plasma levels as a function of exposure to an attachment-related stimulus in SUD patients compared to healthy controls (HCs). A total sample of 48 men, 24 inpatients in maintenance treatment who were diagnosed with poly-drug use disorder (PUD) and 24 HC, was investigated. A 15-min exposure to the Adult Attachment Projective Picture System (AAP) was used as an attachment-related stimulus and coded for attachment status. Blood samples before and after the AAP-assessment were taken and assayed for OT levels. Variation in baselines level of OT was examined in relation to the Alcohol, Smoking and Substance Involvement Screening Test (ASSIST), the Adult Attachment-Scale (AAS), and the Brief Symptom Inventory (BSI). Following the AAP stimulus controls showed no significant difference in OT levels elevation from baseline compared to the PUD group's OT levels. Furthermore, in the PUD group only OT-baseline-levels may be negatively associated with the AAS subscale "Comfort with Closeness" and "Anxiety" and lifetime substance use. Our results suggest that peripheral OT levels in poly-drug users undergoing maintenance treatment are not significantly different in responsiveness to an attachment related stimulus compared to HC. With regard to non-significant tendencies observed in this study which hint toward decreased OT-reactivity in the PUD group, further research is needed to explore this hypothesis with increased statistical power.