An intelligent learning environment for traditional Chinese medicine practitioners and students
- Jia, Long, Stranieri, Andrew, Shen, J
- Authors: Jia, Long , Stranieri, Andrew , Shen, J
- Date: 2008
- Type: Text , Conference paper
- Relation: Paper presented at HIC 2008 Australia's Health Informatics Conference; The Person in the Centre, Brunswick East, Victoria : 31st August - 2nd September 2008
- Full Text:
- Description: Objectives: This study aims to support the training of Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioners by embedding an expert diagnostic model for arthritis into an Intelligent Interactive Learning Environment (IILE). Background: The increasing prevalence of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) outside China is characterised by the emergence of university level practitioner training and stringent regulatory requirements. TCM differential diagnosis is a difficult task that was traditionally taught by exposure to large numbers of patients in a master-apprentice context. In university degree programs, students and novice diagnosticians cannot have the exposure to cases possible in the traditional context. An online system that engages students in the interactive construction of a virtual case and provides immediate feedback on the appropriateness of student actions and the accuracy of diagnostic conclusions can enhance student learning. The system, an Intelligent Interactive Learning Environment (IILE) is based on an approach that has been shown to improve learning outcomes in intensive care nurse training. Methods: An expert model of diagnostic reasoning elicited from TCM expert practitioners lies at the core of the IILE. The knowledge acquisition is performed using an argumentation tree representation that has been shown to be effective in structuring complex knowledge and facilitating engineer - expert interactions. Problems associated with keeping knowledge bases up to date are mitigated with the use of a knowledge model known as ripple down rules permits dynamic updating of knowledge so that knowledge bases evolve over time. A simple narrative model builds up the virtual case study as user interaction proceeds. Results and discussion: This article reports preliminary results in the study that includes an overview of TCM differential diagnosis, the argument tree, the ripple down rule representation and the narrative based IILE. Segments of the knowledge model based solely on TCM literature are illustrated.
- Description: 2003006755
- Authors: Jia, Long , Stranieri, Andrew , Shen, J
- Date: 2008
- Type: Text , Conference paper
- Relation: Paper presented at HIC 2008 Australia's Health Informatics Conference; The Person in the Centre, Brunswick East, Victoria : 31st August - 2nd September 2008
- Full Text:
- Description: Objectives: This study aims to support the training of Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioners by embedding an expert diagnostic model for arthritis into an Intelligent Interactive Learning Environment (IILE). Background: The increasing prevalence of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) outside China is characterised by the emergence of university level practitioner training and stringent regulatory requirements. TCM differential diagnosis is a difficult task that was traditionally taught by exposure to large numbers of patients in a master-apprentice context. In university degree programs, students and novice diagnosticians cannot have the exposure to cases possible in the traditional context. An online system that engages students in the interactive construction of a virtual case and provides immediate feedback on the appropriateness of student actions and the accuracy of diagnostic conclusions can enhance student learning. The system, an Intelligent Interactive Learning Environment (IILE) is based on an approach that has been shown to improve learning outcomes in intensive care nurse training. Methods: An expert model of diagnostic reasoning elicited from TCM expert practitioners lies at the core of the IILE. The knowledge acquisition is performed using an argumentation tree representation that has been shown to be effective in structuring complex knowledge and facilitating engineer - expert interactions. Problems associated with keeping knowledge bases up to date are mitigated with the use of a knowledge model known as ripple down rules permits dynamic updating of knowledge so that knowledge bases evolve over time. A simple narrative model builds up the virtual case study as user interaction proceeds. Results and discussion: This article reports preliminary results in the study that includes an overview of TCM differential diagnosis, the argument tree, the ripple down rule representation and the narrative based IILE. Segments of the knowledge model based solely on TCM literature are illustrated.
- Description: 2003006755
The incidence and burden of hospital-treated sports-related injury in people aged 15+ years in Victoria, Australia, 2004-2010 : A future epidemic of osteoarthritis?
- Finch, Caroline, Kemp, Joanne, Clapperton, Angela
- Authors: Finch, Caroline , Kemp, Joanne , Clapperton, Angela
- Date: 2015
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Osteorthritis and Cartilage Vol. 23, no. 7 (2015), p. 1138-1143
- Relation: http://purl.org/au-research/grants/nhmrc/565900
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Objectives: Previous sports injury is a known risk factor for subsequent osteoarthritis (OA), but population-based rates of sports injury are unknown. The aims of this study were to: (1) describe the trends in the population incidence and burden of all hospital-treated sports injury in Victoria, Australia in adults aged 15+ years; (2) determine the incidence of lower limb and knee injuries; and (3) quantify their population health burden as average direct hospital costs per injury and lengths of stay. Methods: Health sector data relating to adults aged 15+ years, for 2004-2010 inclusive, was extracted from the Victorian Admitted Episodes Dataset (VAED) and Victorian Emergency Minimum Dataset (VEMD). Data relating to sports injuries were identified using activity codes in each dataset Trends in injury frequency and rates were determined, and economic burden was calculated. Results: The overall annual rate of hospital treated sports injuries increased by 24% (P = 0.001), and lower limb injuries by 26% (P = 0.001) over the 7 years. The associated accumulated economic burden was $265 million for all sports injuries and $110 million for lower limb injuries over the 7-years. Conclusions: The findings of this study show a significant increase in sports injuries in the state of Victoria, Australia over a 7-year period. As previous sports injury is a risk factor for the development of OA, the future incidence of OA will escalate, placing an even greater burden on health care systems. Population-wide preventative strategies that reduce the risk of sports injury are urgently required in order to reduce the future burden of OA. © 2015 Osteoarthritis Research Society International.
- Authors: Finch, Caroline , Kemp, Joanne , Clapperton, Angela
- Date: 2015
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Osteorthritis and Cartilage Vol. 23, no. 7 (2015), p. 1138-1143
- Relation: http://purl.org/au-research/grants/nhmrc/565900
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Objectives: Previous sports injury is a known risk factor for subsequent osteoarthritis (OA), but population-based rates of sports injury are unknown. The aims of this study were to: (1) describe the trends in the population incidence and burden of all hospital-treated sports injury in Victoria, Australia in adults aged 15+ years; (2) determine the incidence of lower limb and knee injuries; and (3) quantify their population health burden as average direct hospital costs per injury and lengths of stay. Methods: Health sector data relating to adults aged 15+ years, for 2004-2010 inclusive, was extracted from the Victorian Admitted Episodes Dataset (VAED) and Victorian Emergency Minimum Dataset (VEMD). Data relating to sports injuries were identified using activity codes in each dataset Trends in injury frequency and rates were determined, and economic burden was calculated. Results: The overall annual rate of hospital treated sports injuries increased by 24% (P = 0.001), and lower limb injuries by 26% (P = 0.001) over the 7 years. The associated accumulated economic burden was $265 million for all sports injuries and $110 million for lower limb injuries over the 7-years. Conclusions: The findings of this study show a significant increase in sports injuries in the state of Victoria, Australia over a 7-year period. As previous sports injury is a risk factor for the development of OA, the future incidence of OA will escalate, placing an even greater burden on health care systems. Population-wide preventative strategies that reduce the risk of sports injury are urgently required in order to reduce the future burden of OA. © 2015 Osteoarthritis Research Society International.
Who uses Australian chiropractic services?
- French, Simon, Densley, Konstancja, Charity, Melanie, Gunn, Jane
- Authors: French, Simon , Densley, Konstancja , Charity, Melanie , Gunn, Jane
- Date: 2013
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Chiropractic and Manual Therapies Vol. 21, no. 1 (2013), p.
- Full Text: false
- Reviewed:
- Description: Background: The use of chiropractic services is widespread, however, little is known about the characteristics of people who seek chiropractic care in Australia. This study compared the characteristics of users and non-users of chiropractic services from a cohort of patients sourced from general medical practice in Victoria, Australia.Methods: This is a secondary analysis of baseline screening data from a prospective adult cohort study beginning in 2005. Thirty randomly selected Australian general medical practices mailed out surveys to 17,780 of their patients. Differences were examined between chiropractic users and others, and between chiropractic users who reported a back problem to those who did not.Results: Of 7,519 respondents, 15% indicated they had visited a chiropractor in the last 12 months. Chiropractic users were more likely to have their GP located in a rural location and to be born in Australia; they were less likely to be in the older age group (55-76), to be unemployed or to have a pension/benefit as their main source of income. Chiropractic users were more likely to: have a back problem; use complementary or alternative medication; visit another type of complementary health practitioner or a physiotherapist. They were less likely to take medication for certain health problems (e.g. for high blood pressure, high cholesterol or asthma). No important differences were seen between chiropractic users and non-users for other health problems. People who visited a chiropractor and reported a back problem were more likely to: be a current smoker; have a number of other chronic conditions, including arthritis, hypertension, chronic sinusitis, asthma, dermatitis, depression and anxiety; report taking medications, including antidepressants, analgesics (painkillers and arthritis medication) and complementary or alternative medications.Conclusions: This large cross-sectional study of general medical practice attendees suggests that chiropractors are the most commonly consulted complementary health profession. Chiropractors should ensure they are aware of their patients' health conditions other than musculoskeletal problems and should ensure they are appropriately managed. © 2013 French et al.; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.
The perceived effects of COVID-19 while living with a chronic illness
- Ryder, Mary, Guerin, Suzanne, Forde, Rita, Lowe, Grainne, Jaarsma, Tiny, O'Neill, Madeline, Halley, Carmel, Connolly, Michael
- Authors: Ryder, Mary , Guerin, Suzanne , Forde, Rita , Lowe, Grainne , Jaarsma, Tiny , O'Neill, Madeline , Halley, Carmel , Connolly, Michael
- Date: 2023
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Journal of Nursing Scholarship Vol. 55, no. 1 (2023), p. 154-162
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- Reviewed:
- Description: Introduction: A diagnosis of chronic illness posed a serious threat to people during the recent COVID-19 pandemic. People with chronic illnesses were faced with increased mortality and reduced access to healthcare. Self-care is the process of maintaining health and managing a chronic illness. Nurses working in specialist services provide healthcare education to people with chronic illnesses. Access to these nurses was decreased during periods of the COVID-19 virus escalation due to the reconfiguration of services and redeployment of nurses. The purpose of the research was to learn from the experiences of people with a chronic illnesses in self-care behaviors and accessing altered healthcare services to inform future practices. Design: A population survey design. Methods: A mixed methods survey was designed, combining validated questionnaires and scales with open-ended questions. A convenience sample was utilized via using social media platforms. Data analysis included descriptive and inferential statistics. Content analysis was used to analyze open-ended responses. Results: There were 147 responses, with approximately half reporting no changes in face-to-face healthcare contact, 41% reporting decreased contacts and 12% increased contacts. Non-face-to-face contacts were reduced by almost 9%, did not change by almost 60%, while 33% indicated an increase. Participants reported mixed perceptions in contact with healthcare providers during restrictions. In the Patient Assessment of Chronic Illness Care and the Self-Care of Chronic Illness scales, participants scored statistically lower scores than in previous studies. Participants indicated that public health restrictions negatively impacted their confidence, created challenges with re-engaging and that access to care was more difficult. Conclusion: This research highlights the importance of providing continued support to people with chronic illness irrespective of other challenges to healthcare services. A structured approach to virtual self-care education is required. Clinical relevance: This research concluded that the experience of access to one healthcare professional as opposed to diverse multidisciplinary input was similar for a number of chronic illnesses groups of people during the COVID-19 pandemic. There was an altered dynamic of virtual contacts with healthcare providers and a lack of confidence interpreting what monitoring was required by people with a chronic illnesses due to a lack of preparedness for virtual healthcare delivery. © 2022 The Authors. Journal of Nursing Scholarship published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of Sigma Theta Tau International.
- Authors: Ryder, Mary , Guerin, Suzanne , Forde, Rita , Lowe, Grainne , Jaarsma, Tiny , O'Neill, Madeline , Halley, Carmel , Connolly, Michael
- Date: 2023
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Journal of Nursing Scholarship Vol. 55, no. 1 (2023), p. 154-162
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Introduction: A diagnosis of chronic illness posed a serious threat to people during the recent COVID-19 pandemic. People with chronic illnesses were faced with increased mortality and reduced access to healthcare. Self-care is the process of maintaining health and managing a chronic illness. Nurses working in specialist services provide healthcare education to people with chronic illnesses. Access to these nurses was decreased during periods of the COVID-19 virus escalation due to the reconfiguration of services and redeployment of nurses. The purpose of the research was to learn from the experiences of people with a chronic illnesses in self-care behaviors and accessing altered healthcare services to inform future practices. Design: A population survey design. Methods: A mixed methods survey was designed, combining validated questionnaires and scales with open-ended questions. A convenience sample was utilized via using social media platforms. Data analysis included descriptive and inferential statistics. Content analysis was used to analyze open-ended responses. Results: There were 147 responses, with approximately half reporting no changes in face-to-face healthcare contact, 41% reporting decreased contacts and 12% increased contacts. Non-face-to-face contacts were reduced by almost 9%, did not change by almost 60%, while 33% indicated an increase. Participants reported mixed perceptions in contact with healthcare providers during restrictions. In the Patient Assessment of Chronic Illness Care and the Self-Care of Chronic Illness scales, participants scored statistically lower scores than in previous studies. Participants indicated that public health restrictions negatively impacted their confidence, created challenges with re-engaging and that access to care was more difficult. Conclusion: This research highlights the importance of providing continued support to people with chronic illness irrespective of other challenges to healthcare services. A structured approach to virtual self-care education is required. Clinical relevance: This research concluded that the experience of access to one healthcare professional as opposed to diverse multidisciplinary input was similar for a number of chronic illnesses groups of people during the COVID-19 pandemic. There was an altered dynamic of virtual contacts with healthcare providers and a lack of confidence interpreting what monitoring was required by people with a chronic illnesses due to a lack of preparedness for virtual healthcare delivery. © 2022 The Authors. Journal of Nursing Scholarship published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of Sigma Theta Tau International.
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