Physical activity for people with dementia: A scoping study

Background: This scoping study aimed to identify how physical activity may benefit people with dementia; how and/or if current service provide these benefits; and what support they need to do so. Methods: Methods included an evidence review using literature; mapping current service provision through a survey; and in-depth interviews with a sample of service providers. Results: The 26 studies included in the review indicated the potential effectiveness of physical activity for people with dementia, including improvements in cognition and mood, behaviour and physical condition. Mechanisms of action and the link with outcomes were poorly defined and implemented. The mapping survey and related interviews showed that service providers were delivering a range of services broadly consistent with the scientific evidence. They tended to take a holistic view of possible benefits, and focused on enjoyment and well-being, more than specific cognitive, physical and behavioural outcomes highlighted in literature. Service providers needed more evidence based information and resources to develop services and realise their potential. Conclusion: Despite potential benefits demonstrated in literature and practice, there is a need for further research to optimise interventions and to consider some neglected issues including delivery at home and in communities; impacts for carers; physical activities through ADLs; and individual needs. Studies are needed which take a more holistic approach to the effects of physical activity, and outcomes should be broader and include mental health and wellbeing

Health Surveillance of Stranded Green Turtles in Southern Queensland, Australia (2006–2009): An Epidemiological Analysis of Causes of Disease and Mortality

Causes of disease and mortality in marine turtles are frequently based on opportunistic investigations producing results that may not contribute to knowledge on how to protect their survival rate. Over a 4-year period (2006-2009), the major causes of stranding and morbidity in 100 green turtles (Chelonia mydas) from southern Queensland on the east coast of Australia were determined by comprehensive postmortem examination. Lesions were characterized for analysis using descriptive and probability statistics. Spirorchiid parasitism was found to be the most frequently occurring cause of mortality (41.8%), followed by gastrointestinal impaction (11.8%), microbiological infectious diseases (5.2%), and trauma (5.2%). Spirorchiid parasitism with associated inflammation (75%) was the most frequently occurring disease, followed by gastrointestinal impaction (5.1%). All other diseases were observed at a low prevalence. Assessment of the likelihood of disease being influenced by risk factors (season, maturity, and gender) showed that: (i) there were more observed cases of spirorchiid infection in summer when compared with the other seasons (P = 0.029); (ii) immature turtles had more severe spirorchiid parasite infections than mature turtles (P = 0.032); and (iii) respiratory disorders were more likely (P = 0.01) in summer and autumn than winter or spring. Number of observed cases and severity of spirorchiid lesions were highest in the brain compared with other histologically examined organ systems (all P > 0.1). Further investigation is required to build on these findings, aid management decisions, and determine the significance of these diseases for green turtle survivorship in Queensland

Management of short-term indwelling urethral catheters to prevent urinary tract infections

Craig Lockwood, Tamara Page, Tiffany Conroy-Hiller and Zuben Florenc