The association between selected molecular biomarkers and ambulatory blood pressure patterns in African chronic kidney disease and hypertensive patients compared with normotensive controls : protocol for a longitudinal study
- Adeoye, Abiodun, Adebayo, Oladimeji, Abiola, Busayo, Iwalokun, Bamidele, Tayo, Bamidele, Charchar, Fadi, Ojo, Akinlolu, Cooper, Richard
- Authors: Adeoye, Abiodun , Adebayo, Oladimeji , Abiola, Busayo , Iwalokun, Bamidele , Tayo, Bamidele , Charchar, Fadi , Ojo, Akinlolu , Cooper, Richard
- Date: 2020
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: JMIR Research Protocols Vol. 9, no. 1 (Jan 2020), p. 8
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Background: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a burgeoning epidemic in sub-Saharan Africa. Abnormal blood pressure variations are prevalent in CKD and potentiate the risk of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Certain genetic variants (angiotensin II receptor type 1 1166 A>C and angiotensin-converting enzyme insertion and deletion polymorphisms) and biomarkers such as interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor, soluble (s) E-selectin, homocysteine, and highly sensitive C-reactive protein have been shown to affect blood pressure variability among non-African CKD, hypertensive. and nonhypertensive CKD population. However, the contributions of the pattern, genetic, and environmental determinants of ambulatory blood pressure in African CKD have not been characterized. Understanding these interactions may help to develop interventions to prevent major cardiovascular events among people with CKD. Objective: The overarching objective of this study is to identify, document, and develop approaches to address related phenomic, genetic, and environmental determinants of ambulatory blood pressure patterns in African CKD and non-CKD hypertensive patients compared with normotensive controls. Methods: This is a longitudinal short-term follow-up study of 200 adult subjects with CKD and 200 each of age-matched hypertensives without CKD and apparently healthy controls. Demographic information, detailed clinical profile, electrocardiography, echocardiography, and 24-hr ambulatory blood pressure measurements will be obtained. Blood samples will be collected to determine albumin-creatinine ratio, fasting plasma glucose, lipid profile, electrolytes, urea and creatinine, C-reactive protein, serum homocysteine, fibroblast growth factor-23, and complete blood count, while 2 mL blood aliquot will be collected in EDTA (ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid) tubes and mixed using an electronic rolling system to prevent blood clots and subsequently used for DNA extraction and genetic analysis. Results: A total of 239 participants have been recruited so far, and it is expected that the recruitment phase will be complete in June 2020. The follow-up phase will continue with data analysis and publications of results. Conclusions: This study will help stratify Nigerian CKD patients phenotypically and genotypically in terms of their blood pressure variations with implications for targeted interventions and timing of medications to improve prognosis.
- Authors: Adeoye, Abiodun , Adebayo, Oladimeji , Abiola, Busayo , Iwalokun, Bamidele , Tayo, Bamidele , Charchar, Fadi , Ojo, Akinlolu , Cooper, Richard
- Date: 2020
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: JMIR Research Protocols Vol. 9, no. 1 (Jan 2020), p. 8
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Background: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a burgeoning epidemic in sub-Saharan Africa. Abnormal blood pressure variations are prevalent in CKD and potentiate the risk of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Certain genetic variants (angiotensin II receptor type 1 1166 A>C and angiotensin-converting enzyme insertion and deletion polymorphisms) and biomarkers such as interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor, soluble (s) E-selectin, homocysteine, and highly sensitive C-reactive protein have been shown to affect blood pressure variability among non-African CKD, hypertensive. and nonhypertensive CKD population. However, the contributions of the pattern, genetic, and environmental determinants of ambulatory blood pressure in African CKD have not been characterized. Understanding these interactions may help to develop interventions to prevent major cardiovascular events among people with CKD. Objective: The overarching objective of this study is to identify, document, and develop approaches to address related phenomic, genetic, and environmental determinants of ambulatory blood pressure patterns in African CKD and non-CKD hypertensive patients compared with normotensive controls. Methods: This is a longitudinal short-term follow-up study of 200 adult subjects with CKD and 200 each of age-matched hypertensives without CKD and apparently healthy controls. Demographic information, detailed clinical profile, electrocardiography, echocardiography, and 24-hr ambulatory blood pressure measurements will be obtained. Blood samples will be collected to determine albumin-creatinine ratio, fasting plasma glucose, lipid profile, electrolytes, urea and creatinine, C-reactive protein, serum homocysteine, fibroblast growth factor-23, and complete blood count, while 2 mL blood aliquot will be collected in EDTA (ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid) tubes and mixed using an electronic rolling system to prevent blood clots and subsequently used for DNA extraction and genetic analysis. Results: A total of 239 participants have been recruited so far, and it is expected that the recruitment phase will be complete in June 2020. The follow-up phase will continue with data analysis and publications of results. Conclusions: This study will help stratify Nigerian CKD patients phenotypically and genotypically in terms of their blood pressure variations with implications for targeted interventions and timing of medications to improve prognosis.
Understanding barriers to mental health service utilization for adolescents in rural Australia
- Aisbett, Damon, Boyd, Candice, Francis, Kristy, Newnham, Krystal, Newnham, Karyn
- Authors: Aisbett, Damon , Boyd, Candice , Francis, Kristy , Newnham, Krystal , Newnham, Karyn
- Date: 2007
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Rural and Remote Health Vol. 7, no. (2007), p. 1-10
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- Description: INTRODUCTION: There is a general paucity of research in the area of rural adolescent mental health in Australia, and in particular a lack of data regarding the experiences of rural adolescents who seek help for mental health problems. This study used a qualitative approach to data collection and analysis in order to assist understanding of the barriers to mental health service utilization for young people in rural communities. METHOD: A series of interviews were conducted with each of the study's participants, who ranged in age from 15 to 17 years. All participants were clients of the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services in the rural cities of Horsham and Ararat, Victoria, Australia. RESULTS: Participants described how the lack of reliable transport to and from the mental health service affected the utilization of the service by rural young people. They also expressed concern regarding a lack of qualified professionals in their region who specialize in child and adolescent mental health. Participants reported frustration at long waiting lists and the lack of an after-hours service. One participant shared her experiences of deliberate self-harm to in order to gain access. Results also revealed that rural gossip networks and social visibility within rural communities compounded the experience of stigma and social exclusion for these young people. Furthermore, participants explained how these experiences negatively impacted on their utilization of the mental health service and their progress towards recovery. CONCLUSIONS: There are several barriers to mental health service utilization for rural adolescents which affect both their decision to access help as well as their ability to engage effectively with mental health services over time. Clinicians who work with rural adolescents need to be mindful of the influence of rural culture on mental health service utilization by young people. The co-location of mental health services and general health services is suggested as one way to reduce the fear associated with 'being seen' entering a stand-alone mental health service. It is suggested that treatment programs for adolescents in rural areas address the different types of stigma that these young people are likely to encounter. Furthermore, community and school-based interventions aimed at reducing the social stigma of young people with mental illness in rural areas is recommended.
- Description: C1
- Description: 2003005804
- Authors: Aisbett, Damon , Boyd, Candice , Francis, Kristy , Newnham, Krystal , Newnham, Karyn
- Date: 2007
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Rural and Remote Health Vol. 7, no. (2007), p. 1-10
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: INTRODUCTION: There is a general paucity of research in the area of rural adolescent mental health in Australia, and in particular a lack of data regarding the experiences of rural adolescents who seek help for mental health problems. This study used a qualitative approach to data collection and analysis in order to assist understanding of the barriers to mental health service utilization for young people in rural communities. METHOD: A series of interviews were conducted with each of the study's participants, who ranged in age from 15 to 17 years. All participants were clients of the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services in the rural cities of Horsham and Ararat, Victoria, Australia. RESULTS: Participants described how the lack of reliable transport to and from the mental health service affected the utilization of the service by rural young people. They also expressed concern regarding a lack of qualified professionals in their region who specialize in child and adolescent mental health. Participants reported frustration at long waiting lists and the lack of an after-hours service. One participant shared her experiences of deliberate self-harm to in order to gain access. Results also revealed that rural gossip networks and social visibility within rural communities compounded the experience of stigma and social exclusion for these young people. Furthermore, participants explained how these experiences negatively impacted on their utilization of the mental health service and their progress towards recovery. CONCLUSIONS: There are several barriers to mental health service utilization for rural adolescents which affect both their decision to access help as well as their ability to engage effectively with mental health services over time. Clinicians who work with rural adolescents need to be mindful of the influence of rural culture on mental health service utilization by young people. The co-location of mental health services and general health services is suggested as one way to reduce the fear associated with 'being seen' entering a stand-alone mental health service. It is suggested that treatment programs for adolescents in rural areas address the different types of stigma that these young people are likely to encounter. Furthermore, community and school-based interventions aimed at reducing the social stigma of young people with mental illness in rural areas is recommended.
- Description: C1
- Description: 2003005804
Quantitative exploration of the barriers and facilitators to nurse-patient communication in Saudia Arabia
- Albagawi, Bander, Jones, Linda
- Authors: Albagawi, Bander , Jones, Linda
- Date: 2016
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Journal of Hospital Administration Vol. 6, no. 1 (2016), p.16-24
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- Description: Nurses with effective communication skills play a critical role in minimising the stress associated with hospitalisation for both patients and their families. Effective communication has become increasingly reported as a key component in effective health care outcomes, which is even more crucial in countries such as Saudi Arabia with a large foreign healthcare workforce. The presence of a large expatriate workforce with a different language from the host society and the ensuing complexity of sociocultural linguistic and heath beliefs systems has been poorly researched. This study aimed to investigate barriers and facilitators of nurse-patient communication in Saudi Arabia using the Nurses’ Self-Administered Communication Survey. The survey was distributed to a random sample of 291 nurses working in medical and surgical departments at five hospitals in Saudi Arabia. The results indicate that the Philippine and Saudi Arabian nurses perceived greater barriers to communication with respect to personal/social characteristics, job specifications and environmental factors then nurses of other nationalities. In addition, nurses with shorter experience in Saudi Arabia perceived greater barriers to communication with respect to the clinical situation of patient and environmental factors than the nurses with longer experience. Lastly, nurses who had not attended specialist courses on communication skills acquisition perceived greater barriers to communication with respect to personal characteristics and job specifications than nurses who had attended such courses. This study highlights the need to better prepare expatriate nurses before they enter the workforce in Saudi Arabia on cultural competence and language skills.
- Authors: Albagawi, Bander , Jones, Linda
- Date: 2016
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Journal of Hospital Administration Vol. 6, no. 1 (2016), p.16-24
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Nurses with effective communication skills play a critical role in minimising the stress associated with hospitalisation for both patients and their families. Effective communication has become increasingly reported as a key component in effective health care outcomes, which is even more crucial in countries such as Saudi Arabia with a large foreign healthcare workforce. The presence of a large expatriate workforce with a different language from the host society and the ensuing complexity of sociocultural linguistic and heath beliefs systems has been poorly researched. This study aimed to investigate barriers and facilitators of nurse-patient communication in Saudi Arabia using the Nurses’ Self-Administered Communication Survey. The survey was distributed to a random sample of 291 nurses working in medical and surgical departments at five hospitals in Saudi Arabia. The results indicate that the Philippine and Saudi Arabian nurses perceived greater barriers to communication with respect to personal/social characteristics, job specifications and environmental factors then nurses of other nationalities. In addition, nurses with shorter experience in Saudi Arabia perceived greater barriers to communication with respect to the clinical situation of patient and environmental factors than the nurses with longer experience. Lastly, nurses who had not attended specialist courses on communication skills acquisition perceived greater barriers to communication with respect to personal characteristics and job specifications than nurses who had attended such courses. This study highlights the need to better prepare expatriate nurses before they enter the workforce in Saudi Arabia on cultural competence and language skills.
The impact of COVID-19 on the service of emergency department
- Alharthi, Shaia, Al-Moteri, Modi, Plummer, Virginia, Thobiaty, Abdulellah
- Authors: Alharthi, Shaia , Al-Moteri, Modi , Plummer, Virginia , Thobiaty, Abdulellah
- Date: 2021
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Healthcare (Switzerland) Vol. 9, no. 10 (2021), p.
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- Description: (1) Introduction: the COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted the number and acuity of emergency departments (ED) patients, specifically those with non-COVID-19-related health problems. However, the exact impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on ED services is the subject of comprehensive debate. (2) Aim: to gain insight into the consequences of the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic based on non-COVID-19 presentations and patient acuity using the Canadian Triage and Acuity Scale (CTAS). (3) Method: in Phase 1, the ED records of one of the main regional non-COVID-19 hospitals in Saudi Arabia were retrospectively audited from August 2020 to February 2021—after the first wave of COVID-19—then compared to information collected for the same period in previous year. Phase 2 included calculating the waiting time to identify delays and issues that may impact the triage effectiveness. (4) Results: a change across all CTAS levels was observed post the 1st wave of COVID-19 pandemic. Specifically, there was an increase in the number of patients presenting as higher acuity (CTAS 1 and 2) and a decrease in patients presenting as lower acuity (CTAS 4 and 5). Longer waiting times for patients presenting to ED were also reported. Specifically, 83% of patients presenting as higher acuity experienced a delay. (5) Conclusion: further studies are required to investigate association between the 1st wave of COVID-19 and patient presentations and/or acuity or patient demand and ED capacity. © 2021 by the authors. Licensee MDPI, Basel, Switzerland.
- Authors: Alharthi, Shaia , Al-Moteri, Modi , Plummer, Virginia , Thobiaty, Abdulellah
- Date: 2021
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Healthcare (Switzerland) Vol. 9, no. 10 (2021), p.
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: (1) Introduction: the COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted the number and acuity of emergency departments (ED) patients, specifically those with non-COVID-19-related health problems. However, the exact impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on ED services is the subject of comprehensive debate. (2) Aim: to gain insight into the consequences of the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic based on non-COVID-19 presentations and patient acuity using the Canadian Triage and Acuity Scale (CTAS). (3) Method: in Phase 1, the ED records of one of the main regional non-COVID-19 hospitals in Saudi Arabia were retrospectively audited from August 2020 to February 2021—after the first wave of COVID-19—then compared to information collected for the same period in previous year. Phase 2 included calculating the waiting time to identify delays and issues that may impact the triage effectiveness. (4) Results: a change across all CTAS levels was observed post the 1st wave of COVID-19 pandemic. Specifically, there was an increase in the number of patients presenting as higher acuity (CTAS 1 and 2) and a decrease in patients presenting as lower acuity (CTAS 4 and 5). Longer waiting times for patients presenting to ED were also reported. Specifically, 83% of patients presenting as higher acuity experienced a delay. (5) Conclusion: further studies are required to investigate association between the 1st wave of COVID-19 and patient presentations and/or acuity or patient demand and ED capacity. © 2021 by the authors. Licensee MDPI, Basel, Switzerland.
Organisational barriers to effective pain management amongst oncology nurses in Saudi Arabia
- Alqahtani, Mohammed, Jones, Linda, Holroyd, Eleanor
- Authors: Alqahtani, Mohammed , Jones, Linda , Holroyd, Eleanor
- Date: 2015
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Journal of Hospital Administration Vol. 5, no. 1 (2015), p. 81-89
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- Description: Cancer pain is a multi-dimensional syndrome with a combination of acute and chronic pain that causes physical, psycho-social, behavioural, emotional and spiritual problems resulting in adverse effects on patients’ quality of life. Nurses need to be well prepared with knowledge on pain assessment and management techniques in oncology units, due to their vital role in the decision-making process regarding pain management. However, limited research has been conducted regarding nurses’ barriers regarding pain management in oncology units, especially in Saudi Arabia. The overall aim of this study was to explore the nurses’ perceived barriers that hinder the delivery of effective pain management to cancer patients. Five focus group discussions were conducted using a purposive sampling of six to eight nurses in each group, with a total of 35 oncology nurses. The results of focus group analysis revealed two main thematic categories with associated sub themes, being nurses’ workloads, and the absence of health team collaboration. This study provides an increased awareness of the barriers that may hinder the efficacy of pain management provided to cancer patients in Saudi Arabia context. Significant implications will benefit nursing practice, administration and education, in addition to identifying potential future research.
- Authors: Alqahtani, Mohammed , Jones, Linda , Holroyd, Eleanor
- Date: 2015
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Journal of Hospital Administration Vol. 5, no. 1 (2015), p. 81-89
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Cancer pain is a multi-dimensional syndrome with a combination of acute and chronic pain that causes physical, psycho-social, behavioural, emotional and spiritual problems resulting in adverse effects on patients’ quality of life. Nurses need to be well prepared with knowledge on pain assessment and management techniques in oncology units, due to their vital role in the decision-making process regarding pain management. However, limited research has been conducted regarding nurses’ barriers regarding pain management in oncology units, especially in Saudi Arabia. The overall aim of this study was to explore the nurses’ perceived barriers that hinder the delivery of effective pain management to cancer patients. Five focus group discussions were conducted using a purposive sampling of six to eight nurses in each group, with a total of 35 oncology nurses. The results of focus group analysis revealed two main thematic categories with associated sub themes, being nurses’ workloads, and the absence of health team collaboration. This study provides an increased awareness of the barriers that may hinder the efficacy of pain management provided to cancer patients in Saudi Arabia context. Significant implications will benefit nursing practice, administration and education, in addition to identifying potential future research.
Mental health nurses’ attitudes towards consumers with co-existing mental health and drug and alcohol problems : a scoping review
- Anandan, Roopalal, Cross, Wendy, Olasoji, Michael
- Authors: Anandan, Roopalal , Cross, Wendy , Olasoji, Michael
- Date: 2020
- Type: Text , Journal article , Review
- Relation: Issues in Mental Health Nursing Vol. 42, no. 4 (2020), p. 346-357
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- Description: Consumers with co-existing mental health and drug/alcohol problems are exposed to more stigma than those with any other health problems. This scoping review aimed to systematically map the available literature regarding mental health nurses' attitudes, empathy, and caring efficacy towards consumers with a dual diagnosis. Twenty studies reported outcomes regarding nurse attitudes; however, none reported nurses' empathy or caring efficacy towards consumers with a dual diagnosis. Further research is required to advance the evidence on the impact of mental health nurses' attitudes, empathy and caring effectiveness, and the outcomes should lead to improved service delivery for consumers with a dual diagnosis. © 2020 Taylor & Francis Group, LLC.
- Authors: Anandan, Roopalal , Cross, Wendy , Olasoji, Michael
- Date: 2020
- Type: Text , Journal article , Review
- Relation: Issues in Mental Health Nursing Vol. 42, no. 4 (2020), p. 346-357
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Consumers with co-existing mental health and drug/alcohol problems are exposed to more stigma than those with any other health problems. This scoping review aimed to systematically map the available literature regarding mental health nurses' attitudes, empathy, and caring efficacy towards consumers with a dual diagnosis. Twenty studies reported outcomes regarding nurse attitudes; however, none reported nurses' empathy or caring efficacy towards consumers with a dual diagnosis. Further research is required to advance the evidence on the impact of mental health nurses' attitudes, empathy and caring effectiveness, and the outcomes should lead to improved service delivery for consumers with a dual diagnosis. © 2020 Taylor & Francis Group, LLC.
Defining timeliness in care for patients with lung cancer : protocol for a scoping review
- Ansar, Adnan, Lewis, Virginia, McDonald, Christine, Liu, Chaojie, Rahman, Muhammad Aziz
- Authors: Ansar, Adnan , Lewis, Virginia , McDonald, Christine , Liu, Chaojie , Rahman, Muhammad Aziz
- Date: 2020
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: BMJ Open Vol. 10, no. 11 (2020), p. 1-7
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Introduction Cancer is the second leading cause of death worldwide, and lung cancer is the single leading cause of cancer mortality worldwide. Early diagnosis of lung cancer is the key to better prognosis and longer survival. While there are substantial literature reporting delays in cancer diagnosis, there is a lack of consensus in the definitions and terms used to describe a € delay' in the treatment pathway. The aim of this scoping review is to identify and critically synthesise the operational definitions and terminologies used to describe the timely initiation of care and consequent treatments over the care pathway for patients with lung cancer. This scoping review will also compare how timeliness was operationalised in Western and Asian countries. Methods and analysis The scoping review will use the methodology described by Arksey and O'Malley and endorsed by the Joanna Briggs Institute. MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL and PsycINFO electronic databases will be searched. Grey literature sources and the reference lists of key studies will be used to identify additional relevant studies. The scoping review will include all studies, irrespective of study methodology and quality. Two reviewers will independently screen all titles and abstracts to identify eligible studies for inclusion. The full texts of identified studies will be further examined and charted using a data extraction form. A narrative synthesis will be performed to assess and categorise available definitions of timeliness. Ethics and dissemination Ethical approval is not needed as this scoping review will be reviewing already published articles. The results produced from this review will be submitted to a scientific peer-reviewed journal for publication and will be presented at scientific meetings. ©
- Authors: Ansar, Adnan , Lewis, Virginia , McDonald, Christine , Liu, Chaojie , Rahman, Muhammad Aziz
- Date: 2020
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: BMJ Open Vol. 10, no. 11 (2020), p. 1-7
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Introduction Cancer is the second leading cause of death worldwide, and lung cancer is the single leading cause of cancer mortality worldwide. Early diagnosis of lung cancer is the key to better prognosis and longer survival. While there are substantial literature reporting delays in cancer diagnosis, there is a lack of consensus in the definitions and terms used to describe a € delay' in the treatment pathway. The aim of this scoping review is to identify and critically synthesise the operational definitions and terminologies used to describe the timely initiation of care and consequent treatments over the care pathway for patients with lung cancer. This scoping review will also compare how timeliness was operationalised in Western and Asian countries. Methods and analysis The scoping review will use the methodology described by Arksey and O'Malley and endorsed by the Joanna Briggs Institute. MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL and PsycINFO electronic databases will be searched. Grey literature sources and the reference lists of key studies will be used to identify additional relevant studies. The scoping review will include all studies, irrespective of study methodology and quality. Two reviewers will independently screen all titles and abstracts to identify eligible studies for inclusion. The full texts of identified studies will be further examined and charted using a data extraction form. A narrative synthesis will be performed to assess and categorise available definitions of timeliness. Ethics and dissemination Ethical approval is not needed as this scoping review will be reviewing already published articles. The results produced from this review will be submitted to a scientific peer-reviewed journal for publication and will be presented at scientific meetings. ©
Improving the engagement of Aboriginal families with maternal and child health services : a new model of care
- Austin, Catherine, Arabena, Kerry
- Authors: Austin, Catherine , Arabena, Kerry
- Date: 2021
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Public Health Research and Practice Vol. 31, no. 2 (2021), p.
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Objectives: Access in the early years to integrated community-based services that are flexible in their approach, holistic and culturally strong is a proven critical predictor of a child's successful transition to school and lifelong education and employment outcomes, providing long-term wellbeing. Studies show that participation in maternal and child health (MCH) services in Victoria, Australia, improve health outcomes for children and families, particularly for Aboriginal families. Poorer health outcomes and lower participation rates for these families in MCH services suggest there is a need for an urgent review of the current service model. The purpose of this paper is to outline the Early Assessment Referral Links (EARL) concept that was trialled in the Glenelg Shire in Victoria, Australia (2009-2014) to improve the engagement of Aboriginal families in MCH services. Methods: Development of EARL involved the core principles of appreciative inquiry to change existing patterns of conversation and give voice to new and diverse perspectives. A broad cross-section of the Aboriginal community and their early years health service providers were consulted and stakeholders recruited. Regular meetings between these stakeholders, in consultation with the Aboriginal community, were held to identify families that weren't engaged in MCH services and also to identify families who required further assessment, intervention, referral and/or support, ideally from the preconception or antenatal periods. Outcome measures used to evaluate the EARL concept include stakeholder meetings data, numbers of referrals, and participation rates of women and children in MCH services. Results: Participation of Aboriginal women and children in MCH services was consistently above the state average during the pilot period, and significant numbers of Aboriginal women and children were referred to EARL stakeholders and other health professionals via EARL referrals. Additionally, there were increases in Aboriginal children being breastfed, fully immunised and attending Early Start Kindergarten. Identification of Aboriginal women and children at risk of vulnerability also improved with a dramatic increase in referrals for family violence and child protection, and decreased episodes of out-of-home care (OoHC) for children. Conclusions: Evaluation of pilot outcomes indicate that the EARL concept improved women and children's access to and engagement with MCH services, and identified more families at risk of vulnerability than the traditional MCH service model, particularly for Aboriginal women and children. © 2020 Austin and Arabena.
- Authors: Austin, Catherine , Arabena, Kerry
- Date: 2021
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Public Health Research and Practice Vol. 31, no. 2 (2021), p.
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Objectives: Access in the early years to integrated community-based services that are flexible in their approach, holistic and culturally strong is a proven critical predictor of a child's successful transition to school and lifelong education and employment outcomes, providing long-term wellbeing. Studies show that participation in maternal and child health (MCH) services in Victoria, Australia, improve health outcomes for children and families, particularly for Aboriginal families. Poorer health outcomes and lower participation rates for these families in MCH services suggest there is a need for an urgent review of the current service model. The purpose of this paper is to outline the Early Assessment Referral Links (EARL) concept that was trialled in the Glenelg Shire in Victoria, Australia (2009-2014) to improve the engagement of Aboriginal families in MCH services. Methods: Development of EARL involved the core principles of appreciative inquiry to change existing patterns of conversation and give voice to new and diverse perspectives. A broad cross-section of the Aboriginal community and their early years health service providers were consulted and stakeholders recruited. Regular meetings between these stakeholders, in consultation with the Aboriginal community, were held to identify families that weren't engaged in MCH services and also to identify families who required further assessment, intervention, referral and/or support, ideally from the preconception or antenatal periods. Outcome measures used to evaluate the EARL concept include stakeholder meetings data, numbers of referrals, and participation rates of women and children in MCH services. Results: Participation of Aboriginal women and children in MCH services was consistently above the state average during the pilot period, and significant numbers of Aboriginal women and children were referred to EARL stakeholders and other health professionals via EARL referrals. Additionally, there were increases in Aboriginal children being breastfed, fully immunised and attending Early Start Kindergarten. Identification of Aboriginal women and children at risk of vulnerability also improved with a dramatic increase in referrals for family violence and child protection, and decreased episodes of out-of-home care (OoHC) for children. Conclusions: Evaluation of pilot outcomes indicate that the EARL concept improved women and children's access to and engagement with MCH services, and identified more families at risk of vulnerability than the traditional MCH service model, particularly for Aboriginal women and children. © 2020 Austin and Arabena.
Quality of life among individuals with rugby-related spinal cord injuries in South Africa : A descriptive cross-sectional study
- Badenhorst, Marelise, Brown, James, Lambert, Mike, van Mechelen, Willem, Verhagen, Evert
- Authors: Badenhorst, Marelise , Brown, James , Lambert, Mike , van Mechelen, Willem , Verhagen, Evert
- Date: 2018
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: BMJ Open Vol. 8, no. 6 (2018), p. 1-12
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Objectives Rugby-related spinal cord injuries (SCIs) are rare but life altering and traumatic events. Little is known about the long-term consequences and outcomes of players who have sustained these injuries. This study investigated current quality of life (QoL) and factors associated with QoL, among individuals with rugby-related SCI in South Africa, by using the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) framework. Design Descriptive cross-sectional study. Setting Rugby-related SCI population of South Africa, as captured in the BokSmart/Chris Burger Petro Jackson Players' Fund database. Participants Ninety (n=90) of the 102 eligible players on the database agreed to participate in the study. Main outcome measure The relationship between QoL, as measured with the WHO Quality of Life questionnaire (WHOQOL-BREF) and specific independent variables (demographic information, level of independence and participation in various activities and life roles) was investigated. Variables that were significantly associated with QoL in bivariate analyses were included in multiple linear regression analyses. Results The mean score and SD of the WHOQOL-BREF was 15.1±2.3 arbitrary units. Participation (an ICF framework construct) and income were significantly associated with overall QoL (p<0.001). Participation was the only variable significantly associated with all QoL subdomains (p<0.001). Additionally, number of health concerns, type of healthcare (public vs private) and level of education were significantly associated with various QoL domains (p<0.001). Conclusions On average, these individuals with rugby-related SCI presented with higher QoL scores than other comparable SCI studies. However, lower levels of participation and income, certain levels of education, increased health concerns and use of public healthcare were associated with lower levels of QoL. Sporting bodies have a responsibility to optimise player welfare, by acting on the modifiable factors associated with QoL.
- Authors: Badenhorst, Marelise , Brown, James , Lambert, Mike , van Mechelen, Willem , Verhagen, Evert
- Date: 2018
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: BMJ Open Vol. 8, no. 6 (2018), p. 1-12
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Objectives Rugby-related spinal cord injuries (SCIs) are rare but life altering and traumatic events. Little is known about the long-term consequences and outcomes of players who have sustained these injuries. This study investigated current quality of life (QoL) and factors associated with QoL, among individuals with rugby-related SCI in South Africa, by using the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) framework. Design Descriptive cross-sectional study. Setting Rugby-related SCI population of South Africa, as captured in the BokSmart/Chris Burger Petro Jackson Players' Fund database. Participants Ninety (n=90) of the 102 eligible players on the database agreed to participate in the study. Main outcome measure The relationship between QoL, as measured with the WHO Quality of Life questionnaire (WHOQOL-BREF) and specific independent variables (demographic information, level of independence and participation in various activities and life roles) was investigated. Variables that were significantly associated with QoL in bivariate analyses were included in multiple linear regression analyses. Results The mean score and SD of the WHOQOL-BREF was 15.1±2.3 arbitrary units. Participation (an ICF framework construct) and income were significantly associated with overall QoL (p<0.001). Participation was the only variable significantly associated with all QoL subdomains (p<0.001). Additionally, number of health concerns, type of healthcare (public vs private) and level of education were significantly associated with various QoL domains (p<0.001). Conclusions On average, these individuals with rugby-related SCI presented with higher QoL scores than other comparable SCI studies. However, lower levels of participation and income, certain levels of education, increased health concerns and use of public healthcare were associated with lower levels of QoL. Sporting bodies have a responsibility to optimise player welfare, by acting on the modifiable factors associated with QoL.
Levels of support for the licensing of tobacco retailers in Australia : findings from the National Drug Strategy Household Survey 2004-2016
- Baker, John, Masood, Mohd, Rahman, Muhammad Aziz, Begg, Stephen
- Authors: Baker, John , Masood, Mohd , Rahman, Muhammad Aziz , Begg, Stephen
- Date: 2020
- Type: Text , Journal article , Review
- Relation: BMC Public Health Vol. 20, no. 1 (2020)
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Background: Assessing public opinion towards tobacco policies is important, particularly when determining the possible direction of future public health policies. The aim of this study was to describe the implementation of tobacco retailer licensing systems by state and territory governments in Australia, and to use the National Drug Strategy Household Survey (NDSHS) to assess levels of public support for a retailer licensing system in each jurisdiction over time and by a range of socio-demographic and behavioural attributes. Methods: National and state/territory estimates of public support for a tobacco retailer licensing system were derived as proportions using NDSHS data from 2004 to 2016. The effect of one's jurisdiction of residence on the likelihood of supporting such an initiative in 2016 was assessed using logistic regression while controlling for various socio-demographic and behavioural characteristics. Results: Public support for a tobacco retailer licensing system ranged from a high of 67.2% (95% CI 66.5-67.9%) nationally in 2007 and declined to 59.5% (95% CI 58.9-60.2%) in 2016. In 2016, support was greatest amongst those from Tasmania, those aged 50 years and older, females, those from the least disadvantaged areas, those living in major cities, never-smokers and never-drinkers. After adjusting for the socio-demographic and behavioural attributes of respondents, those from Queensland were significantly less likely to support a licensing system (adjusted OR = 0.85, 95% CI 0.77-0.94) compared to those from other jurisdictions, while those from Tasmania were significantly more likely to support a licensing system compared to those from other jurisdictions (adjusted OR = 1.29, 95% CI 1.09-1.52). Conclusions: A clear majority of the public support a tobacco retailer licensing system, regardless of whether or not such a system is already in place in their jurisdiction of residence. Tobacco control initiatives other than a retailer licensing system may explain some of the residual variations in support observed between jurisdictions. © 2020 The Author(s).
- Authors: Baker, John , Masood, Mohd , Rahman, Muhammad Aziz , Begg, Stephen
- Date: 2020
- Type: Text , Journal article , Review
- Relation: BMC Public Health Vol. 20, no. 1 (2020)
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Background: Assessing public opinion towards tobacco policies is important, particularly when determining the possible direction of future public health policies. The aim of this study was to describe the implementation of tobacco retailer licensing systems by state and territory governments in Australia, and to use the National Drug Strategy Household Survey (NDSHS) to assess levels of public support for a retailer licensing system in each jurisdiction over time and by a range of socio-demographic and behavioural attributes. Methods: National and state/territory estimates of public support for a tobacco retailer licensing system were derived as proportions using NDSHS data from 2004 to 2016. The effect of one's jurisdiction of residence on the likelihood of supporting such an initiative in 2016 was assessed using logistic regression while controlling for various socio-demographic and behavioural characteristics. Results: Public support for a tobacco retailer licensing system ranged from a high of 67.2% (95% CI 66.5-67.9%) nationally in 2007 and declined to 59.5% (95% CI 58.9-60.2%) in 2016. In 2016, support was greatest amongst those from Tasmania, those aged 50 years and older, females, those from the least disadvantaged areas, those living in major cities, never-smokers and never-drinkers. After adjusting for the socio-demographic and behavioural attributes of respondents, those from Queensland were significantly less likely to support a licensing system (adjusted OR = 0.85, 95% CI 0.77-0.94) compared to those from other jurisdictions, while those from Tasmania were significantly more likely to support a licensing system compared to those from other jurisdictions (adjusted OR = 1.29, 95% CI 1.09-1.52). Conclusions: A clear majority of the public support a tobacco retailer licensing system, regardless of whether or not such a system is already in place in their jurisdiction of residence. Tobacco control initiatives other than a retailer licensing system may explain some of the residual variations in support observed between jurisdictions. © 2020 The Author(s).
SARS-CoV-2 does not replicate in embryonated hen's eggs or in MDCK cell lines
- Barr, Ian, Rynehart, Cleve, Whitney, Paul, Druce, Julian
- Authors: Barr, Ian , Rynehart, Cleve , Whitney, Paul , Druce, Julian
- Date: 2020
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Euro surveillance : bulletin Europeen sur les maladies transmissibles = European communicable disease bulletin Vol. 25, no. 25 (2020), p.
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: The advent of COVID-19, has posed a risk that human respiratory samples containing human influenza viruses may also contain SARS-CoV-2. This potential risk may lead to SARS-CoV-2 contaminating conventional influenza vaccine production platforms as respiratory samples are used to directly inoculate embryonated hen's eggs and continuous cell lines that are used to isolate and produce influenza vaccines. We investigated the ability of these substrates to propagate SARS-CoV-2 and found that neither could support SARS-CoV-2 replication.
- Authors: Barr, Ian , Rynehart, Cleve , Whitney, Paul , Druce, Julian
- Date: 2020
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Euro surveillance : bulletin Europeen sur les maladies transmissibles = European communicable disease bulletin Vol. 25, no. 25 (2020), p.
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: The advent of COVID-19, has posed a risk that human respiratory samples containing human influenza viruses may also contain SARS-CoV-2. This potential risk may lead to SARS-CoV-2 contaminating conventional influenza vaccine production platforms as respiratory samples are used to directly inoculate embryonated hen's eggs and continuous cell lines that are used to isolate and produce influenza vaccines. We investigated the ability of these substrates to propagate SARS-CoV-2 and found that neither could support SARS-CoV-2 replication.
May measurement month 2017 : an analysis of blood pressure screening results worldwide
- Beaney, Thomas, Schutte, Aletta, Tomaszewski, Maciej, Ariti, Cono, Burrell, Louise, Castillo, Rafael, Charchar, Fadi, Damasceno, Albertino, Kruger, Ruan, Lackland, Daniel, Nilsson, Peter, Prabhakaran, Dorairaj, Ramirez, Agustin, Schlaich, Markus, Wang, Jiguang, Weber, Michael, Poulter, Neil
- Authors: Beaney, Thomas , Schutte, Aletta , Tomaszewski, Maciej , Ariti, Cono , Burrell, Louise , Castillo, Rafael , Charchar, Fadi , Damasceno, Albertino , Kruger, Ruan , Lackland, Daniel , Nilsson, Peter , Prabhakaran, Dorairaj , Ramirez, Agustin , Schlaich, Markus , Wang, Jiguang , Weber, Michael , Poulter, Neil
- Date: 2018
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: The Lancet Global Health Vol. 6, no. 7 (2018), p. e736-e743
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Background: Increased blood pressure is the biggest contributor to the global burden of disease and mortality. Data suggest that less than half of the population with hypertension is aware of it. May Measurement Month was initiated to raise awareness of the importance of blood pressure and as a pragmatic interim solution to the shortfall in screening programmes. Methods: This cross-sectional survey included volunteer adults (≥18 years) who ideally had not had their blood pressures measured in the past year. Each participant had their blood pressure measured three times and received a a questionnaire about demographic, lifestyle, and environmental factors. The primary objective was to raise awareness of blood pressure, measured by number of countries involved, number of people screened, and number of people who have untreated or inadequately treated hypertension (defined as systolic blood pressure ≥140 mm Hg or diastolic blood pressure ≥90 mm Hg, or both, or on the basis of receiving antihypertensive medication). Multiple imputation was used to estimate the mean of the second and third blood pressure readings if these were not recorded. Measures of association were analysed using linear mixed models. Findings: Data were collected from 1 201 570 individuals in 80 countries. After imputation, of the 1 128 635 individuals for whom a mean of the second and third readings was available, 393 924 (34·9%) individuals had hypertension. 153 905 (17·3%) of 888 616 individuals who were not receiving antihypertensive treatment were hypertensive, and 105 456 (46·3%) of the 227 721 individuals receiving treatment did not have controlled blood pressure. Significant differences in adjusted blood pressures and hypertension prevalence were apparent between regions. Adjusted blood pressure was higher in association with antihypertensive medication, diabetes, cerebrovascular disease, smoking, and alcohol consumption. Blood pressure was higher when measured on the right arm than on the left arm, and blood pressure was highest on Saturdays. Interpretation: Inexpensive global screening of blood pressure is achievable using volunteers and convenience sampling. Pending the set-up of systematic surveillance systems worldwide, MMM will be repeated annually to raise awareness of blood pressure. Funding: International Society of Hypertension, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Servier Pharmaceutical Co.
- Authors: Beaney, Thomas , Schutte, Aletta , Tomaszewski, Maciej , Ariti, Cono , Burrell, Louise , Castillo, Rafael , Charchar, Fadi , Damasceno, Albertino , Kruger, Ruan , Lackland, Daniel , Nilsson, Peter , Prabhakaran, Dorairaj , Ramirez, Agustin , Schlaich, Markus , Wang, Jiguang , Weber, Michael , Poulter, Neil
- Date: 2018
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: The Lancet Global Health Vol. 6, no. 7 (2018), p. e736-e743
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Background: Increased blood pressure is the biggest contributor to the global burden of disease and mortality. Data suggest that less than half of the population with hypertension is aware of it. May Measurement Month was initiated to raise awareness of the importance of blood pressure and as a pragmatic interim solution to the shortfall in screening programmes. Methods: This cross-sectional survey included volunteer adults (≥18 years) who ideally had not had their blood pressures measured in the past year. Each participant had their blood pressure measured three times and received a a questionnaire about demographic, lifestyle, and environmental factors. The primary objective was to raise awareness of blood pressure, measured by number of countries involved, number of people screened, and number of people who have untreated or inadequately treated hypertension (defined as systolic blood pressure ≥140 mm Hg or diastolic blood pressure ≥90 mm Hg, or both, or on the basis of receiving antihypertensive medication). Multiple imputation was used to estimate the mean of the second and third blood pressure readings if these were not recorded. Measures of association were analysed using linear mixed models. Findings: Data were collected from 1 201 570 individuals in 80 countries. After imputation, of the 1 128 635 individuals for whom a mean of the second and third readings was available, 393 924 (34·9%) individuals had hypertension. 153 905 (17·3%) of 888 616 individuals who were not receiving antihypertensive treatment were hypertensive, and 105 456 (46·3%) of the 227 721 individuals receiving treatment did not have controlled blood pressure. Significant differences in adjusted blood pressures and hypertension prevalence were apparent between regions. Adjusted blood pressure was higher in association with antihypertensive medication, diabetes, cerebrovascular disease, smoking, and alcohol consumption. Blood pressure was higher when measured on the right arm than on the left arm, and blood pressure was highest on Saturdays. Interpretation: Inexpensive global screening of blood pressure is achievable using volunteers and convenience sampling. Pending the set-up of systematic surveillance systems worldwide, MMM will be repeated annually to raise awareness of blood pressure. Funding: International Society of Hypertension, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Servier Pharmaceutical Co.
May measurement month 2019 the global blood pressure screening campaign of the International Society of Hypertension
- Beaney, Thomas, Schutte, Aletta, Stergiou, George, Borghi, Claudio, Burger, Dylan, Charchar, Fadi, Cro, Suzie, Diaz, Alejandro, Damasceno, Albertino, Espeche, Walter, Jose, Arun, Khan, Nadia, Kokubo, Yoshihiro, Maheshwari, Anuj, Marin, Marcos, More, Arun, Neupane, Dinesh, Nilsson, Peter, Patil, Mansi, Prabhakaran, Dorairaj, Ramirez, Agustin, Rodriguez, Pablo, Schlaich, Markus, Steckelings, Ulrike, Tomaszewski, Maciej, Unger, Thomas, Wainford, Richard, Wang, Jiguang, Williams, Bryan, Poulter, Neil, M. M. M. Investigators
- Authors: Beaney, Thomas , Schutte, Aletta , Stergiou, George , Borghi, Claudio , Burger, Dylan , Charchar, Fadi , Cro, Suzie , Diaz, Alejandro , Damasceno, Albertino , Espeche, Walter , Jose, Arun , Khan, Nadia , Kokubo, Yoshihiro , Maheshwari, Anuj , Marin, Marcos , More, Arun , Neupane, Dinesh , Nilsson, Peter , Patil, Mansi , Prabhakaran, Dorairaj , Ramirez, Agustin , Rodriguez, Pablo , Schlaich, Markus , Steckelings, Ulrike , Tomaszewski, Maciej , Unger, Thomas , Wainford, Richard , Wang, Jiguang , Williams, Bryan , Poulter, Neil , M. M. M. Investigators
- Date: 2020
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Hypertension Vol. 76, no. 2 (Aug 2020), p. 333-341
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Elevated blood pressure remains the single biggest risk factor contributing to the global burden of disease and mortality. May Measurement Month is an annual global screening campaign aiming to improve awareness of blood pressure at the individual and population level. Adults (>= 18 years) recruited through opportunistic sampling were screened at sites in 92 countries during May 2019. Ideally, 3 blood pressure readings were measured for each participant, and data on lifestyle factors and comorbidities were collected. Hypertension was defined as a systolic blood pressure >= 140 mm Hg, or a diastolic blood pressure >= 90 mm Hg (mean of the second and third readings) or taking antihypertensive medication. When necessary, multiple imputation was used to estimate participants' mean blood pressure. Mixed-effects models were used to evaluate associations between blood pressure and participant characteristics. Of 1 508 130 screenees 482 273 (32.0%) had never had a blood pressure measurement before and 513 337 (34.0%) had hypertension, of whom 58.7% were aware, and 54.7% were on antihypertensive medication. Of those on medication, 57.8% were controlled to <140/90 mm Hg, and 28.9% to <130/80 mm Hg. Of all those with hypertension, 31.7% were controlled to <140/90 mm Hg, and 350 825 (23.3%) participants had untreated or inadequately treated hypertension. Of those taking antihypertensive medication, half were taking only a single drug, and 25% reported using aspirin inappropriately. This survey is the largest ever synchronized and standardized contemporary compilation of global blood pressure data. This campaign is needed as a temporary substitute for systematic blood pressure screening in many countries worldwide.
- Authors: Beaney, Thomas , Schutte, Aletta , Stergiou, George , Borghi, Claudio , Burger, Dylan , Charchar, Fadi , Cro, Suzie , Diaz, Alejandro , Damasceno, Albertino , Espeche, Walter , Jose, Arun , Khan, Nadia , Kokubo, Yoshihiro , Maheshwari, Anuj , Marin, Marcos , More, Arun , Neupane, Dinesh , Nilsson, Peter , Patil, Mansi , Prabhakaran, Dorairaj , Ramirez, Agustin , Rodriguez, Pablo , Schlaich, Markus , Steckelings, Ulrike , Tomaszewski, Maciej , Unger, Thomas , Wainford, Richard , Wang, Jiguang , Williams, Bryan , Poulter, Neil , M. M. M. Investigators
- Date: 2020
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Hypertension Vol. 76, no. 2 (Aug 2020), p. 333-341
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Elevated blood pressure remains the single biggest risk factor contributing to the global burden of disease and mortality. May Measurement Month is an annual global screening campaign aiming to improve awareness of blood pressure at the individual and population level. Adults (>= 18 years) recruited through opportunistic sampling were screened at sites in 92 countries during May 2019. Ideally, 3 blood pressure readings were measured for each participant, and data on lifestyle factors and comorbidities were collected. Hypertension was defined as a systolic blood pressure >= 140 mm Hg, or a diastolic blood pressure >= 90 mm Hg (mean of the second and third readings) or taking antihypertensive medication. When necessary, multiple imputation was used to estimate participants' mean blood pressure. Mixed-effects models were used to evaluate associations between blood pressure and participant characteristics. Of 1 508 130 screenees 482 273 (32.0%) had never had a blood pressure measurement before and 513 337 (34.0%) had hypertension, of whom 58.7% were aware, and 54.7% were on antihypertensive medication. Of those on medication, 57.8% were controlled to <140/90 mm Hg, and 28.9% to <130/80 mm Hg. Of all those with hypertension, 31.7% were controlled to <140/90 mm Hg, and 350 825 (23.3%) participants had untreated or inadequately treated hypertension. Of those taking antihypertensive medication, half were taking only a single drug, and 25% reported using aspirin inappropriately. This survey is the largest ever synchronized and standardized contemporary compilation of global blood pressure data. This campaign is needed as a temporary substitute for systematic blood pressure screening in many countries worldwide.
Cardiac response to exercise in normal ageing : What can we learn from masters athletes?
- Beaumont, Alexander, Campbell, Amy, Grace, Fergal, Sculthorpe, Nicholas
- Authors: Beaumont, Alexander , Campbell, Amy , Grace, Fergal , Sculthorpe, Nicholas
- Date: 2018
- Type: Text , Journal article , Review
- Relation: Current Cardiology Reviews Vol. 14, no. 4 (2018), p. 245-253
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Background: Ageing is associated with an inexorable decline in cardiac and vascular function, resulting in an increased risk of Cardiovascular Disease (CVD). Lifestyle factors such as exercise have emerged as a primary therapeutic target in the prevention of CVD, yet older individuals are frequently reported as being the least active, with few meeting the recommended physical activity guidelines. In contrast, well trained older individuals (Masters athletes) have superior functional capacity than their sedentary peers and are often comparable with young non-athletes. Therefore, the 'masters' athlete may be viewed as a unique non-pharmacological model which may allow researchers to disentangle the inexorable from the preventable and the magnitude of the unavoidable 'true' reduction in cardiac function due to ageing. Conclusion: This review examines evidence from studies which have compared cardiac structure and function in well trained older athletes, with age-matched controls but otherwise healthy. © 2018 Bentham Science Publishers.
- Authors: Beaumont, Alexander , Campbell, Amy , Grace, Fergal , Sculthorpe, Nicholas
- Date: 2018
- Type: Text , Journal article , Review
- Relation: Current Cardiology Reviews Vol. 14, no. 4 (2018), p. 245-253
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Background: Ageing is associated with an inexorable decline in cardiac and vascular function, resulting in an increased risk of Cardiovascular Disease (CVD). Lifestyle factors such as exercise have emerged as a primary therapeutic target in the prevention of CVD, yet older individuals are frequently reported as being the least active, with few meeting the recommended physical activity guidelines. In contrast, well trained older individuals (Masters athletes) have superior functional capacity than their sedentary peers and are often comparable with young non-athletes. Therefore, the 'masters' athlete may be viewed as a unique non-pharmacological model which may allow researchers to disentangle the inexorable from the preventable and the magnitude of the unavoidable 'true' reduction in cardiac function due to ageing. Conclusion: This review examines evidence from studies which have compared cardiac structure and function in well trained older athletes, with age-matched controls but otherwise healthy. © 2018 Bentham Science Publishers.
Age-specific parental knowledge of restraint transitions influences appropriateness of child occupant restraint use
- Bilston, Lynne, Finch, Caroline, Hatfield, Julie, Brown, Jill
- Authors: Bilston, Lynne , Finch, Caroline , Hatfield, Julie , Brown, Jill
- Date: 2008
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Injury Prevention Vol. 14, no. 3 (2008), p. 159-163
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Objective: To determine the factors that influence appropriate restraint usage by child occupants across the age range for which any type of child restraint may be appropriate (0-10 years). Design: Randomized household telephone survey. Setting: Statewide survey, New South Wales, Australia. Subjects: Parents or carers of children aged 0-10 years. Main outcome measures: Parental reporting of appropriateness of child restraint. Methods: Demographic information and data on age, size, restraint practices, parental knowledge of child occupant safety, and attitude to restraint use was collected using a structured interview. Data were analysed using logistic regression after cluster adjustment. Results: Inappropriate restraint use by children was widespread, particularly in children aged 2+ years. Overall, parental knowledge of appropriate ages for restraint transitions was associated with increased likelihood of appropriate restraint use. Lower levels of formal parental education, larger families, parental restraint non-use, and parent/child negotiability of restraint use were predictors of inappropriate restraint use. For particular child age subgroups, the parental knowledge that predicted appropriate restraint use was specific to that age group. Most parents felt that they knew enough to safely restrain their child, despite widespread inappropriate restraint use. Conclusions: Parents are more likely to make appropriate restraint choices for their children if they possess restraint knowledge specific to their children's age and size. Educational campaigns may be most effective when they provide information for specific ages and transition points. Strategies to overcome parents' misplaced confidence that they know enough to restrain their children safely are also indicated.
- Description: C1
- Authors: Bilston, Lynne , Finch, Caroline , Hatfield, Julie , Brown, Jill
- Date: 2008
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Injury Prevention Vol. 14, no. 3 (2008), p. 159-163
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Objective: To determine the factors that influence appropriate restraint usage by child occupants across the age range for which any type of child restraint may be appropriate (0-10 years). Design: Randomized household telephone survey. Setting: Statewide survey, New South Wales, Australia. Subjects: Parents or carers of children aged 0-10 years. Main outcome measures: Parental reporting of appropriateness of child restraint. Methods: Demographic information and data on age, size, restraint practices, parental knowledge of child occupant safety, and attitude to restraint use was collected using a structured interview. Data were analysed using logistic regression after cluster adjustment. Results: Inappropriate restraint use by children was widespread, particularly in children aged 2+ years. Overall, parental knowledge of appropriate ages for restraint transitions was associated with increased likelihood of appropriate restraint use. Lower levels of formal parental education, larger families, parental restraint non-use, and parent/child negotiability of restraint use were predictors of inappropriate restraint use. For particular child age subgroups, the parental knowledge that predicted appropriate restraint use was specific to that age group. Most parents felt that they knew enough to safely restrain their child, despite widespread inappropriate restraint use. Conclusions: Parents are more likely to make appropriate restraint choices for their children if they possess restraint knowledge specific to their children's age and size. Educational campaigns may be most effective when they provide information for specific ages and transition points. Strategies to overcome parents' misplaced confidence that they know enough to restrain their children safely are also indicated.
- Description: C1
The impact of environmental, vehicle and driver characteristics on injury severity in older drivers hospitalized as a result of a traffic crash
- Boufous, Soufiane, Finch, Caroline, Hayen, Andrew, Williamson, Ann
- Authors: Boufous, Soufiane , Finch, Caroline , Hayen, Andrew , Williamson, Ann
- Date: 2008
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Journal of Safety Research Vol. 39, no. 1 (2008), p. 65-72
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Introduction: Compared to younger age groups, older people are more likely to be seriously injured or to die as a result of a traffic crash. Method: The aim of the study is to examine the impact of environmental, vehicle, crash, and driver characteristics on injury severity in older drivers involved in traffic crashes by using recently linked police crash records and hospitalization data from New South Wales, Australia. The severity of injury resulting from traffic crashes was measured using the International Classification of Diseases, 10th revision (ICD-10) Injury Severity Score (ICISS). Results: Multivariate analysis identified rurality, presence of complex intersections, road speed limit, driver error, speeding, and seat belt use as independent predictors of injury severity in older people. The type of intersection configuration explained over half of the observed variations in injury severity. Impact on Industry: Environmental modification such as intersection treatments might contribute to a decrease in the severity of injury in older people involved in road crashes.
- Description: 2003006544
- Authors: Boufous, Soufiane , Finch, Caroline , Hayen, Andrew , Williamson, Ann
- Date: 2008
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Journal of Safety Research Vol. 39, no. 1 (2008), p. 65-72
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Introduction: Compared to younger age groups, older people are more likely to be seriously injured or to die as a result of a traffic crash. Method: The aim of the study is to examine the impact of environmental, vehicle, crash, and driver characteristics on injury severity in older drivers involved in traffic crashes by using recently linked police crash records and hospitalization data from New South Wales, Australia. The severity of injury resulting from traffic crashes was measured using the International Classification of Diseases, 10th revision (ICD-10) Injury Severity Score (ICISS). Results: Multivariate analysis identified rurality, presence of complex intersections, road speed limit, driver error, speeding, and seat belt use as independent predictors of injury severity in older people. The type of intersection configuration explained over half of the observed variations in injury severity. Impact on Industry: Environmental modification such as intersection treatments might contribute to a decrease in the severity of injury in older people involved in road crashes.
- Description: 2003006544
Australian rural adolescents’ experiences of accessing psychological help for a mental health problem
- Boyd, Candice, Francis, Kristy, Aisbett, Damon, Newnham, Krystal, Sewell, Jessica, Dawes, Graham, Nurse, Sarah
- Authors: Boyd, Candice , Francis, Kristy , Aisbett, Damon , Newnham, Krystal , Sewell, Jessica , Dawes, Graham , Nurse, Sarah
- Date: 2007
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Australian Journal of Rural Health Vol. 15, no. (2007), p. 196-200
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Objective: This study aims to explore Australian rural adolescents’ experiences of accessing help for a mental health problem in the context of their rural communities. Design and setting: A qualitative research design was used whereby university students who had sought help for a mental health problem during their adolescence were interviewed about their experiences. Interviews were conducted face-to-face at the university. Main outcome measures: A semi-structured interview schedule was designed around the study’s main research questions. Audio-taped interviews were transcribed and thematically coded using a constant comparative method. Participants: Participants were first-year undergraduate psychology students between the ages of 17 and 21 years who sought help for a mental health issue during their adolescence and who at that time resided in a rural area. Results: Participants highlighted various barriers to seeking help for mental health problems in the context of a rural community, including: social visibility, lack of anonymity, a culture of self-reliance, and social stigma of mental illness. Participants’ access to help was primarily school-based, and participants expressed a preference for supportive counselling over structured interventions. Characteristics of school-based helpers that made them approachable included: ‘caring’, ‘nonjudgemental’, ‘genuine’, ‘young’, and able to maintain confidentiality. Conclusions: The findings support previous research that reveals barriers to help seeking for mental health problems that are unique to the culture of rural communities. The study raises questions about the merit of delivery of primary mental health care to young people via GPs alone and suggests that school-based counsellors be considered as the first step in a young person’s access to mental health care.
- Description: C1
- Description: 2003005807
- Authors: Boyd, Candice , Francis, Kristy , Aisbett, Damon , Newnham, Krystal , Sewell, Jessica , Dawes, Graham , Nurse, Sarah
- Date: 2007
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Australian Journal of Rural Health Vol. 15, no. (2007), p. 196-200
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Objective: This study aims to explore Australian rural adolescents’ experiences of accessing help for a mental health problem in the context of their rural communities. Design and setting: A qualitative research design was used whereby university students who had sought help for a mental health problem during their adolescence were interviewed about their experiences. Interviews were conducted face-to-face at the university. Main outcome measures: A semi-structured interview schedule was designed around the study’s main research questions. Audio-taped interviews were transcribed and thematically coded using a constant comparative method. Participants: Participants were first-year undergraduate psychology students between the ages of 17 and 21 years who sought help for a mental health issue during their adolescence and who at that time resided in a rural area. Results: Participants highlighted various barriers to seeking help for mental health problems in the context of a rural community, including: social visibility, lack of anonymity, a culture of self-reliance, and social stigma of mental illness. Participants’ access to help was primarily school-based, and participants expressed a preference for supportive counselling over structured interventions. Characteristics of school-based helpers that made them approachable included: ‘caring’, ‘nonjudgemental’, ‘genuine’, ‘young’, and able to maintain confidentiality. Conclusions: The findings support previous research that reveals barriers to help seeking for mental health problems that are unique to the culture of rural communities. The study raises questions about the merit of delivery of primary mental health care to young people via GPs alone and suggests that school-based counsellors be considered as the first step in a young person’s access to mental health care.
- Description: C1
- Description: 2003005807
Issues in rural adolescent mental health in Australia
- Boyd, Candice, Aisbett, Damon, Francis, Kristy, Kelly, Melinda, Newnham, Karyn, Newnham, Krystal
- Authors: Boyd, Candice , Aisbett, Damon , Francis, Kristy , Kelly, Melinda , Newnham, Karyn , Newnham, Krystal
- Date: 2006
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Rural and Remote health Vol. 6, no. 501 (2006), p. 1-9
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: The mental health of adolescents living in rural Australia has received little research attention. In this article, the extant literature on rural adolescent mental health in Australia is reviewed. Given the lack of literature on this topic, the review is centered on a vignette presented at the beginning of the article. The case represented by the vignette is that of a young Australian growing up in a rural area. The issues raised – including the nature of mental health issues for rural adolescents and barriers to seeking professional help – are then discussed in terms of the available literature. The article concludes with a future focus for research efforts in the area of rural adolescent mental health.
- Description: C1
- Description: 2003001815
- Authors: Boyd, Candice , Aisbett, Damon , Francis, Kristy , Kelly, Melinda , Newnham, Karyn , Newnham, Krystal
- Date: 2006
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Rural and Remote health Vol. 6, no. 501 (2006), p. 1-9
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: The mental health of adolescents living in rural Australia has received little research attention. In this article, the extant literature on rural adolescent mental health in Australia is reviewed. Given the lack of literature on this topic, the review is centered on a vignette presented at the beginning of the article. The case represented by the vignette is that of a young Australian growing up in a rural area. The issues raised – including the nature of mental health issues for rural adolescents and barriers to seeking professional help – are then discussed in terms of the available literature. The article concludes with a future focus for research efforts in the area of rural adolescent mental health.
- Description: C1
- Description: 2003001815
Social geography and rural mental health research
- Authors: Boyd, Candice , Parr, H
- Date: 2008
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Rural and Remote Health Vol. 8, no. (2008), p. 1-5
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: C1
- Authors: Boyd, Candice , Parr, H
- Date: 2008
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Rural and Remote Health Vol. 8, no. (2008), p. 1-5
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: C1
Antidepressant side effects and their impact on treatment outcome in people with major depressive disorder : an iSPOT-D report
- Braund, Taylor, Tillman, Gabriel, Palmer, Donna, Gordon, Evian, Rush, A., Harris, Anthony
- Authors: Braund, Taylor , Tillman, Gabriel , Palmer, Donna , Gordon, Evian , Rush, A. , Harris, Anthony
- Date: 2021
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Translational Psychiatry Vol. 11, no. 1 (2021), p.
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Side effects to antidepressant medications are common and can impact the prognosis of successful treatment outcome in people with major depressive disorder (MDD). However, few studies have investigated the severity of side effects over the course of treatment and their association with treatment outcome. Here we assessed the severity of side effects and the impact of treatment type and anxiety symptoms over the course of treatment, as well as whether side effects were associated with treatment outcome. Participants were N = 1008 adults with a current diagnosis of single-episode or recurrent, nonpsychotic MDD. Participants were randomised to receive escitalopram, sertraline, or venlafaxine-extended release with equal probability and reassessed at 8 weeks regarding Hamilton Rating Scale Depression (HRSD17) and Quick Inventory of Depressive Symptomatology (QIDS-SR16) remission and response. Severity of side effects were assessed using the Frequency, Intensity, and Burden of Side Effects Rating (FIBSER) scale and assessed at day 4 and weeks 2, 4, 6, and 8. Frequency, intensity, and burden of side effects were greatest at week 2, then only frequency and intensity of side effects gradually decreased up to week 6. Treatment type and anxiety symptoms did not impact the severity of side effects. A greater burden—but not frequency or intensity—of side effects was associated with poorer treatment outcome and as early as 4 days post-treatment. Together, this work provides an informative mapping of the progression of side effects throughout the treatment course and their association with treatment outcome. Importantly, the burden of side effects that are present as early as 4 days post-treatment predicts poorer treatment outcome and should be monitored closely. iSPOT-D: Registry name: ClinicalTrials.gov. Registration number: NCT00693849. © 2021, The Author(s).
- Authors: Braund, Taylor , Tillman, Gabriel , Palmer, Donna , Gordon, Evian , Rush, A. , Harris, Anthony
- Date: 2021
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Translational Psychiatry Vol. 11, no. 1 (2021), p.
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Side effects to antidepressant medications are common and can impact the prognosis of successful treatment outcome in people with major depressive disorder (MDD). However, few studies have investigated the severity of side effects over the course of treatment and their association with treatment outcome. Here we assessed the severity of side effects and the impact of treatment type and anxiety symptoms over the course of treatment, as well as whether side effects were associated with treatment outcome. Participants were N = 1008 adults with a current diagnosis of single-episode or recurrent, nonpsychotic MDD. Participants were randomised to receive escitalopram, sertraline, or venlafaxine-extended release with equal probability and reassessed at 8 weeks regarding Hamilton Rating Scale Depression (HRSD17) and Quick Inventory of Depressive Symptomatology (QIDS-SR16) remission and response. Severity of side effects were assessed using the Frequency, Intensity, and Burden of Side Effects Rating (FIBSER) scale and assessed at day 4 and weeks 2, 4, 6, and 8. Frequency, intensity, and burden of side effects were greatest at week 2, then only frequency and intensity of side effects gradually decreased up to week 6. Treatment type and anxiety symptoms did not impact the severity of side effects. A greater burden—but not frequency or intensity—of side effects was associated with poorer treatment outcome and as early as 4 days post-treatment. Together, this work provides an informative mapping of the progression of side effects throughout the treatment course and their association with treatment outcome. Importantly, the burden of side effects that are present as early as 4 days post-treatment predicts poorer treatment outcome and should be monitored closely. iSPOT-D: Registry name: ClinicalTrials.gov. Registration number: NCT00693849. © 2021, The Author(s).