45 research outputs found
Healthcare utilisation and unmet health needs in children with intellectual disability: a propensity score matching approach using longitudinal cohort data
Background Health disparities for children with
intellectual disabilities can be challenging to measure
due to many other factors that can impact health and
healthcare use. The aim of the current study was to
use longitudinal cohort data to compare children with
intellectual disability (ID) in Ireland between 2006
and 2014 on healthcare utilisation and unmet need, at
ages 9 and 13, using a propensity score matching
(PSM) approach.
Methods Using data from the Growing up in Ireland
study, PSM was used to identify an appropriate control sample to compare with a sample of children with
ID (n = 124). Participants were matched on variables
that are known to influence healthcare utilisation to
reduce the impact of confounding variables between
groups so that differences between the groups can be
estimated. Logistic regression was used to estimate
effects at ages 9 and 13.
Results Children with ID were no more likely to have
visited a general practitioner or emergency
department in the past 12 months than children
without ID. They did have a greater likelihood of
visiting a doctor in a hospital in the past 12 months
and of having an overnight stay in hospital by age 9.
Primary caregivers of children with ID were more
likely to report unmet health needs at ages 9 and 13.
Conclusions This approach is a novel means of
comparing healthcare use in this population by
balancing the impact of other factors that may result
in inequities, to which children with ID may be more
vulnerable
âWe All Really Need to Just Take a Breathâ: Composite Narratives of Hospital Doctorsâ Well-Being during the COVID-19 Pandemic
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic poses a challenge to the physical and mental well-being of doctors worldwide. Countries around the world introduced severe social restrictions, and significant changes to health service provision in the first wave of the pandemic to suppress the spread of the virus and prioritize healthcare for those who contracted it. This study interviewed 48 hospital doctors who worked in Ireland during the first wave of the pandemic and investigated their conceptualizations of their own well-being during that time (MarchâMay 2020). Doctors were interviewed via Zoom or telephone. Interview transcripts were analyzed using structured thematic analysis. Five composite narratives are presented which have been crafted to illustrate themes and experiences emerging from the data. This study found that despite the risks of contracting COVID-19, many doctors saw some improvements to their physical well-being in the first wave of the pandemic. However, most also experienced a decline in their mental well-being due to anxiety, emotional exhaustion, guilt, isolation and poor support. These findings shed light on doctor well-being during COVID-19, and the ways in which they have been affected by the pandemic, both professionally and personally. The paper concludes by highlighting how doctorsâ work life and well-being can be better supported during and after the COVID-19 pandemic
Working group on cephalopod fisheries and life history (Wgceph; outputs from 2022 meeting)
Rapports Scientifiques du CIEM. Volume 5, nÂș 1WGCEPH worked on six Terms of Reference. These involved reporting on the status of stocks;
reviewing advances in stock identification, assessment for fisheries management and for the Ma-
rine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD), including some exploratory stock assessments; re-
viewing impacts of human activities on cephalopods; developing identification guides and rec-
ommendations for fishery data collection; describing the value chain and evaluating market driv-
ers; and reviewing advances in research on environmental tolerance of cephalopods.
ToR A is supported by an annual data call for fishery and survey data. During 2019â2021, com-
pared to 1990â2020, cuttlefish remained the most important cephalopod group in terms of weight
landed along the European North Atlantic coast, while loliginid squid overtook octopus as the
second most important group. Short-finned squid remained the least important group in land-
ings although their relative importance was almost double in 2019â2022 compared to 1992â2020.
Total cephalopod landings have been fairly stable since 1992.
Cuttlefish landings are towards the low end of the recent range, part of a general downward
trend since 2004. Loliginid squid landings in 2019 were close to the maximum seen during the
last 20 years but totals for 2020 and 2021 were lower. Annual ommastrephid squid landings are
more variable than those of the other two groups and close to the maximum seen during 1992â
2021. Octopod landings have generally declined since 2002 but the amount landed in 2021 was
higher than in the previous four years.
Under ToR B we illustrate that the combination of genetic analysis and statolith shape analysis
is a promising method to provide some stock structure information for L. forbsii. With the sum-
mary of cephalopod assessments, we could illustrate that many cephalopod species could al-
ready be included into the MSFD. We further provide material from two reviews in preparation,
covering stock assessment methods and challenges faced for cephalopod fisheries management.
Finally, we summarise trends in abundance indices, noting evidence of recent declines in cuttle-
fish and some octopuses of the genus Eledone.
Under ToR C, we describe progress on the reviews of (i) anthropogenic impacts on cephalopods
and (ii) life history and ecology. In relation to life history, new information on Eledone cirrhosa
from Portugal is included.
Under ToR D we provide an update on identification guides, discuss best practice in fishery data
collection in relation to maturity determination and sampling intensity for fishery monitoring.
Among others, we recommend i) to include the sampling of cephalopods in any fishery that (a)
targets cephalopods, (b) targets both cephalopods and demersal fishes or (c) takes cephalopods
as an important bycatch, ii) Size-distribution sampling, iii) the use of standardized sampling pro-
tocols, iv) an increased sampling effort in cephalopod.
Work under ToR E on value chains and market drivers, in conjunction with the Cephs & Chefs
INTERREG project, has resulted in two papers being submitted. Abstracts of these are in the
report.
Finally, progress under ToR F on environmental tolerance limits of cephalopods and climate en-
velope models is discussed, noting the need to continue this work during the next cycle.info:eu-repo/semantics/publishedVersio
Water and sodium intake habits and status of ultra-endurance runners during a multi-stage ultra-marathon conducted in a hot ambient environment: an observational field based study
<p>Abstract</p> <p>Background</p> <p>Anecdotal evidence suggests ultra-runners may not be consuming sufficient water through foods and fluids to maintenance euhydration, and present sub-optimal sodium intakes, throughout multi-stage ultra-marathon (MSUM) competitions in the heat. Subsequently, the aims were primarily to assess water and sodium intake habits of recreational ultra-runners during a five stage 225 km semi self-sufficient MSUM conducted in a hot ambient environment (T<sub>max</sub> range: 32°C to 40°C); simultaneously to monitor serum sodium concentration, and hydration status using multiple hydration assessment techniques.</p> <p>Methods</p> <p>Total daily, pre-stage, during running, and post-stage water and sodium ingestion of ultra-endurance runners (UER, <it>n</it>â=â74) and control (CON, <it>n</it>â=â12) through foods and fluids were recorded on Stages 1 to 4 by trained dietetic researchers using dietary recall interview technique, and analysed through dietary analysis software. Body mass (BM), hydration status, and serum sodium concentration were determined pre- and post-Stages 1 to 5.</p> <p>Results</p> <p>Water (overall mean (SD): total daily 7.7 (1.5) L/day, during running 732 (183) ml/h) and sodium (total daily 3.9 (1.3) g/day, during running 270 (151) mg/L) ingestion did not differ between stages in UER (<it>p</it>â<â0.001 <it>vs</it>. CON). Exercise-induced BM loss was 2.4 (1.2)% (<it>p</it>â<â0.001). Pre- to post-stage BM gains were observed in 26% of UER along competition. Pre- and post-stage plasma osmolality remained within normal clinical reference range (280 to 303 mOsmol/kg) in the majority of UER (<it>p</it>â>â0.05 <it>vs</it>. CON pre-stage). Asymptomatic hyponatraemia (<135 mmol/L) was evident pre- and post-stage in <it>n</it>â=â8 UER, corresponding to 42% of sampled participants. Pre- and post-stage urine colour, urine osmolality and urine/plasma osmolality ratio increased (<it>p</it>â<â0.001) as competition progressed in UER, with no change in CON. Plasma volume and extra-cellular water increased (<it>p</it>â<â0.001) 22.8% and 9.2%, respectively, from pre-Stage 1 to 5 in UER, with no change in CON.</p> <p>Conclusion</p> <p>Water intake habits of ultra-runners during MSUM conducted in hot ambient conditions appear to be sufficient to maintain baseline euhydration levels. However, fluid over-consumption behaviours were evident along competition, irrespective of running speed and gender. Normonatraemia was observed in the majority of ultra-runners throughout MSUM, despite sodium ingestion under benchmark recommendations.</p
Hyperoxemia and excess oxygen use in early acute respiratory distress syndrome : Insights from the LUNG SAFE study
Publisher Copyright: © 2020 The Author(s). Copyright: Copyright 2020 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.Background: Concerns exist regarding the prevalence and impact of unnecessary oxygen use in patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). We examined this issue in patients with ARDS enrolled in the Large observational study to UNderstand the Global impact of Severe Acute respiratory FailurE (LUNG SAFE) study. Methods: In this secondary analysis of the LUNG SAFE study, we wished to determine the prevalence and the outcomes associated with hyperoxemia on day 1, sustained hyperoxemia, and excessive oxygen use in patients with early ARDS. Patients who fulfilled criteria of ARDS on day 1 and day 2 of acute hypoxemic respiratory failure were categorized based on the presence of hyperoxemia (PaO2 > 100 mmHg) on day 1, sustained (i.e., present on day 1 and day 2) hyperoxemia, or excessive oxygen use (FIO2 ℠0.60 during hyperoxemia). Results: Of 2005 patients that met the inclusion criteria, 131 (6.5%) were hypoxemic (PaO2 < 55 mmHg), 607 (30%) had hyperoxemia on day 1, and 250 (12%) had sustained hyperoxemia. Excess FIO2 use occurred in 400 (66%) out of 607 patients with hyperoxemia. Excess FIO2 use decreased from day 1 to day 2 of ARDS, with most hyperoxemic patients on day 2 receiving relatively low FIO2. Multivariate analyses found no independent relationship between day 1 hyperoxemia, sustained hyperoxemia, or excess FIO2 use and adverse clinical outcomes. Mortality was 42% in patients with excess FIO2 use, compared to 39% in a propensity-matched sample of normoxemic (PaO2 55-100 mmHg) patients (P = 0.47). Conclusions: Hyperoxemia and excess oxygen use are both prevalent in early ARDS but are most often non-sustained. No relationship was found between hyperoxemia or excessive oxygen use and patient outcome in this cohort. Trial registration: LUNG-SAFE is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT02010073publishersversionPeer reviewe
To vaccinate or not to vaccinate? Womenâs perception of vaccination in pregnancy: a qualitative study
Background: Vaccination against influenza and pertussis in pregnancy can reduce the significant morbidity and mortality associated with these infections. Despite this, there is poor uptake of both vaccines in pregnancy. Aim: To explore womenâs perception of vaccination in pregnancy and thereby determine the reasons behind such low vaccination rates. Design & setting: This is a qualitative study undertaken at a large maternity hospital. Method: Seventeen post-partum women completed a semi-structured interview discussing vaccination. They were recruited from a quantitative study looking at vaccination rates in pregnancy. The interview transcripts were discussed among three researchers and underwent thematic analysis. Results: Three themes emerged. The first theme explored the influencing factors that shaped the womenâs decision to vaccinate in pregnancy. The recommendation of a healthcare provider was the most important influencing factor for this study's cohort of women. The second theme highlighted the deficiency in knowledge women had regarding vaccine safety. The last theme related to the pertussis vaccine, and the reluctance of healthcare providers to discuss and offer this vaccine in pregnancy. Conclusion: The qualitative approach gives voice to the thoughts and concerns of women as they make the complex decision to vaccinate in pregnancy. Clinicians must be cognizant of the important role they play in advising women to vaccinate in pregnancy. They must advise women that the vaccine is safe and address any of their concerns. Lastly, a message on vaccine safety should be included in future public health campaigns to promote vaccination in pregnancy
Influenza vaccination in pregnancy: vaccine uptake, maternal and healthcare providersâ knowledge and attitudes. A quantitative study
Background: Influenza during pregnancy is a potentially life threatening illness. There are limited data on influenza vaccination uptake and determinants of uptake in Irish obstetric populations. Aim: To determine the uptake of influenza vaccination during pregnancy; determinants of vaccination uptake; knowledge, attitudes, and concerns of postnatal women; and knowledge and attitudes of healthcare professionals (HCPs) surrounding vaccination. Design & setting: A quantitative study of postnatal women attending the Rotunda Hospital, a tertiary referral maternity hospital in Dublin, Ireland. A separate quantitative study conducted by the North Dublin City GP Training Programme surveyed GPs, pharmacists, and Rotunda Hospital clinical staff. Method: A paper-based survey was distributed to postnatal women. HCPs completed the survey via the online tool Survey Monkey. Results: 330 patient surveys were disseminated, with a 60.0% response rate. Of 198 responders, 109 (55.1%) were vaccinated against influenza. Non-professionals were less likely to be vaccinated (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 0.29, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.09 to 0.89). Vaccination in previous pregnancy (aOR 5.2, 95% CI = 1.69 to 15.62) and information from an HCP were strongly associated with vaccination (aOR 12.8, 95% CI = 2.65 to 62.5). There was a 20.2% (n = 1180) response rate among HCPs. More GPs felt that it was their role to discuss vaccination (92.9%; n = 676), and offer to vaccinate women (91.7%; n = 666) than any other HCP. Conclusion: Provision of information about the importance of vaccination against influenza and pertussis during pregnancy by HCPs and their consistent recommendations in support of vaccination were key determinants of vaccine uptake during pregnancy. The sociodemographic determinants of a womanâs vaccination status should be addressed in health promotion campaigns. Education of HCPs may address knowledge gaps surrounding vaccination
Who Is Mrs. Ada T.P. Foat? And Why Should Historians Care?: An Historical Reading of Henry James' The Bostoniam
âWe All Really Need to just Take a Breathâ: Composite Narratives of Hospital Doctorsâ Well-Being during the COVID-19 Pandemic
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic poses a challenge to the physical and mental well-being of doctors worldwide. Countries around the world introduced severe social restrictions, and significant changes to health service provision in the first wave of the pandemic to suppress the spread of the virus and prioritize healthcare for those who contracted it. This study interviewed 48 hospital doctors who worked in Ireland during the first wave of the pandemic and investigated their conceptualizations of their own well-being during that time (MarchâMay 2020). Doctors were interviewed via Zoomâą or telephone. Interview transcripts were analyzed using structured thematic analysis. Five composite narratives are presented which have been crafted to illustrate themes and experiences emerging from the data. This study found that despite the risks of contracting COVID-19, many doctors saw some improvements to their physical well-being in the first wave of the pandemic. However, most also experienced a decline in their mental well-being due to anxiety, emotional exhaustion, guilt, isolation and poor support. These findings shed light on doctor well-being during COVID-19, and the ways in which they have been affected by the pandemic, both professionally and personally. The paper concludes by highlighting how doctorsâ work life and well-being can be better supported during and after the COVID-19 pandemic