Correlates of depression in bipolar disorder

We analyse time series from 100 patients with bipolar disorder for correlates of depression symptoms. As the sampling interval is non-uniform, we quantify the extent of missing and irregular data using new measures of compliance and continuity. We find that uniformity of response is negatively correlated with the standard deviation of sleep ratings (ρ = -0.26, p = 0.01). To investigate the correlation structure of the time series themselves, we apply the Edelson-Krolik method for correlation estimation. We examine the correlation between depression symptoms for a subset of patients and find that self-reported measures of sleep and appetite/weight show a lower average correlation than other symptoms. Using surrogate time series as a reference dataset, we find no evidence that depression is correlated between patients, though we note a possible loss of information from sparse sampling

Influences on Decision-Making Regarding Antipsychotic Prescribing in Nursing Home Residents With Dementia: A Systematic Review and Synthesis of Qualitative Evidence.

BACKGROUND: Antipsychotic prescribing is prevalent in nursing homes for the management of behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD), despite the known risks and limited effectiveness. Many studies have attempted to understand this continuing phenomenon, using qualitative research methods, and have generated varied and sometimes conflicting findings. To date, the totality of this qualitative evidence has not been systematically collated and synthesized. AIMS: To synthesize the findings from individual qualitative studies on decision-making and prescribing behaviors for antipsychotics in nursing home residents with dementia, with a view to informing intervention development and quality improvement in this field. METHODS: A systematic review and synthesis of qualitative evidence was conducted (PROSPERO protocol registration CRD42015029141). Six electronic databases were searched systematically from inception through July 2016 and supplemented by citation, reference, and gray literature searching. Studies were included if they used qualitative methods for both data collection and analysis, and explored antipsychotic prescribing in nursing homes for the purpose of managing BPSD. The Critical Appraisal Skills Program assessment tool was used for quality appraisal. A meta-ethnography was conducted to synthesize included studies. The Confidence in the Evidence from Reviews of Qualitative research approach was used to assess the confidence in individual review findings. All stages were conducted by at least 2 independent reviewers. RESULTS: Of 1534 unique records identified, 18 met the inclusion criteria. Five key concepts emerged as influencing decision-making: organizational capacity; individual professional capability; communication and collaboration; attitudes; regulations and guidelines. A "line of argument" was synthesized and a conceptual model constructed, comparing this decision-making process to a dysfunctional negative feedback loop. Our synthesis indicates that when all stakeholders come together to communicate and collaborate as equal and empowered partners, this can result in a successful reduction in inappropriate antipsychotic prescribing. CONCLUSIONS: Antipsychotic prescribing in nursing home residents with dementia occurs in a complex environment involving the interplay of various stakeholders, the nursing home organization, and external influences. To improve the quality of antipsychotic prescribing in this cohort, a more holistic approach to BPSD management is required. Although we have found the issue of antipsychotic prescribing has been extensively explored using qualitative methods, there remains a need for research focusing on how best to change the prescribing behaviors identified

The Grizzly, February 27, 1981

Police Involvement: Fraternity Pledging Marred by Bad Reports • Lewis Thomas Graduation Speaker • FCA Gearing Up for Special Olympics • Off-Campus Housing Explored by USGA • USGA Notes • Wickersham Outlines Fall Semester Senior Symposium • Departmental Focus: Romance Languages • Middle East: Soviet Rivalry Topic of Forum • Beta Sig to Sponsor Franken & Davis • Cafe International Opens Tonight • Bierprobe Taste-Testing a Big Success • Reborn Songfest Loses Appeal • IFC Dance Slated for March 20 • You See UC to Become Regular Friday Feature • Registration Delayed • Gifford Heading for Nationals • Lady Swimmers End Season at .500 • Basketball Shooting for NCAA Tournament • Aquabears Have High Hopes for MACs • Sweeney, DiMattia Take 1sts in Indoor Track • Women Hoopsters Enter Playoffs Looking for Titlehttps://digitalcommons.ursinus.edu/grizzlynews/1054/thumbnail.jp

Behaviour change techniques and intervention characteristics in digital cardiac rehabilitation: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials

Evidence suggests that digitally delivered cardiac rehabilitation (CR) is likely to be an effective alternative to centre-based CR. However, there is limited understanding of the behaviour change techniques (BCTs) and intervention characteristics included in digital CR programmes. This systematic review aimed to identify the BCTs and intervention characteristics that have been used in digital CR programmes, and to study those associated with effective programmes. Twenty-five randomised controlled trials were included in the review. Digital CR was associated with significant improvements in daily steps, light physical activity, medication adherence, functional capacity, and low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol when compared to usual care, and produced effects on these outcomes comparable to centre-based CR. The evidence for improved quality of life was mixed. Interventions that were effective at improving behavioural outcomes frequently employed BCTs relating to feedback and monitoring, goals and planning, natural consequences, and social support. Completeness of reporting on the TIDieR checklist across studies ranged from 42% to 92%, with intervention material descriptions being the most poorly reported item. Digital CR appears effective at improving outcomes for patients with cardiovascular disease. The integration of certain BCTs and intervention characteristics may lead to more effective interventions, however better intervention reporting is required

Validation of a Lysis Buffer Containing 4 M Guanidinium Thiocyanate (GITC)/ Triton X-100 for Extraction of SARS-CoV-2 RNA for COVID-19 Testing: Comparison of Formulated Lysis Buffers Containing 4 to 6 M GITC, Roche External Lysis Buffer and Qiagen RTL Lysis Buffer

The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in increased need for diagnostic testing using reverse transcriptase real-time PCR (RT-PCR). An exponential increase in demand has resulted in a shortage of numerous reagents in particular those associated with the lysis buffer required to extract the viral RNA. Herein, we describe a rapid collective effort by hospital laboratory scientists, academic researchers and the biopharma industry to generate a validated lysis buffer. We have formulated a 4M Guanidinium thiocyanate (GITC)/ Triton X-100 Lysis buffer which provides comparable results with the recommended reagents. This buffer will ease the burden on hospital labs in their heroic efforts diagnose a large population of patients