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Dennis B, Deane A, Lauzier F, Zytaruk N, Hardie M, Hammond N, Finfer S, Arabi Y, Marshall J, Saunders L, Heels-Ansdell D, Myburgh J, Knowles S, Muscedere J, Ostermann M, Rajbhandari D, English S, Matic K, Venkatesh B, Al Fares A, Guyatt G, Alhazzani W, Mumtaz H, Poole A, Xie F, Thabane L, Hall R, Cook D. Protocol implementation during the COVID-19 pandemic: experiences from a randomized trial of stress ulcer prophylaxis. BMC Med Res Methodol 2024; 24:109. [PMID: 38704520 PMCID: PMC11069460 DOI: 10.1186/s12874-024-02233-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND During the COVID-19 pandemic, many intensive care units (ICUs) halted research to focus on COVID-19-specific studies. OBJECTIVE To describe the conduct of an international randomized trial of stress ulcer prophylaxis (Re-Evaluating the Inhibition of Stress Erosions in the ICU [REVISE]) during the pandemic, addressing enrolment patterns, center engagement, informed consent processes, data collection, a COVID-specific substudy, patient transfers, and data monitoring. METHODS REVISE is a randomized trial among mechanically ventilated patients, comparing pantoprazole 40 mg IV to placebo on the primary efficacy outcome of clinically important upper gastrointestinal bleeding and the primary safety outcome of 90-day mortality. We documented protocol implementation status from March 11th 2020-August 30th 2022. RESULTS The Steering Committee did not change the scientific protocol. From the first enrolment on July 9th 2019 to March 10th 2020 (8 months preceding the pandemic), 267 patients were enrolled in 18 centers. From March 11th 2020-August 30th 2022 (30 months thereafter), 41 new centers joined; 59 were participating by August 30th 2022 which enrolled 2961 patients. During a total of 1235 enrolment-months in the pandemic phase, enrolment paused for 106 (8.6%) months in aggregate (median 3 months, interquartile range 2;6). Protocol implementation involved a shift from the a priori consent model pre-pandemic (188, 58.8%) to the consent to continue model (1615, 54.1%, p < 0.01). In one new center, an opt-out model was approved. The informed consent rate increased slightly (80.7% to 85.0%, p = 0.05). Telephone consent encounters increased (16.6% to 68.2%, p < 0.001). Surge capacity necessitated intra-institutional transfers; receiving centers continued protocol implementation whenever possible. We developed a nested COVID-19 substudy. The Methods Centers continued central statistical monitoring of trial metrics. Site monitoring was initially remote, then in-person when restrictions lifted. CONCLUSION Protocol implementation adaptations during the pandemic included a shift in the consent model, a sustained high consent rate, and launch of a COVID-19 substudy. Recruitment increased as new centers joined, patient transfers were optimized, and monitoring methods were adapted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brittany Dennis
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Adam Deane
- Department of Critical Care Or Medicine, Department of Critical Care Medicine, Melbourne Medical School, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - François Lauzier
- Departments of Anesthesiology, Medicine and Critical Care Medicine, Université Laval, Québec, Canada
| | - Nicole Zytaruk
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- Division of Critical Care, Research Institute, St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Miranda Hardie
- Critical Care Program, Faculty of Medicine, The George Institute for Global Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Naomi Hammond
- Critical Care Program, Faculty of Medicine, The George Institute for Global Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Simon Finfer
- Critical Care Program, Faculty of Medicine, The George Institute for Global Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Yaseen Arabi
- Intensive Care Department, Ministry of the National Guard-Health Affairs, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
- King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
- King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - John Marshall
- Interdepartmental Division of Critical Care, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Lois Saunders
- Division of Critical Care, Research Institute, St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Diane Heels-Ansdell
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - John Myburgh
- Critical Care Program, Faculty of Medicine, The George Institute for Global Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Intensive Care Unit, St. George Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Serena Knowles
- Critical Care Program, Faculty of Medicine, The George Institute for Global Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - John Muscedere
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Marlies Ostermann
- Department of Critical Care, King's College London, Thomas' Hospital, Guy's & St, London, UK
| | - Dorrilyn Rajbhandari
- Critical Care Program, Faculty of Medicine, The George Institute for Global Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Shane English
- Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Karlo Matic
- Division of Critical Care, Research Institute, St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Bala Venkatesh
- Critical Care Program, Faculty of Medicine, The George Institute for Global Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Abdulrahman Al Fares
- Departments of Anesthesia, Critical Care Medicine, and Pain Medicine, Al-Amiri Center for Respiratory and Cardiac Failure, Al-Amiri Hospital, Ministry of Health, Kuwait Extracorporeal Life Support Program, Ministry of Health, Kuwait City, Kuwait
| | - Gordon Guyatt
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Waleed Alhazzani
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- Division of Critical Care, Research Institute, St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Hassan Mumtaz
- Department of Critical Care, Maroof Hospital, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Alexis Poole
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Discipline of Acute Care Medicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Centre for Research Excellence in Translating Nutrition Science to Good Health, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Feng Xie
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Lehana Thabane
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- Division of Critical Care, Research Institute, St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- Biostatistics Unit, St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Richard Hall
- Departments of Anesthesia, Critical Care and Pharmacology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Deborah Cook
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.
- Division of Critical Care, Research Institute, St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.
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2
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Chong K, Hickey GM, Chan HM, Basu N. Exploring practices, challenges, and priorities for human health and ecological risk assessments in Indigenous communities in Canada. INTEGRATED ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT AND MANAGEMENT 2024. [PMID: 38639473 DOI: 10.1002/ieam.4927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2024] [Revised: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024]
Abstract
Indigenous peoples in Canada are disproportionately exposed to environmental contaminants and may face elevated health risks related to their unique cultural, spiritual, and economic relationships with the land, including the use of traditional food systems. However, to date, institutionalized approaches to assess risks to human and ecological health from contaminants have not been well developed or implemented with Indigenous community contexts in mind. There is regulatory interest in developing new approach methods for risk assessment, and thus an opportunity to increase their relevance to Indigenous communities in which they will be ultimately applied. Therefore, we conducted an anonymous mixed-methods survey of those involved with risk assessment in Indigenous communities in Canada to: (1) understand risk assessment practice in Indigenous communities, (2) explore challenges with conventional assessment methods and compare these across sectors, and (3) gather perspectives on the development of new approaches. In all, 38 completed survey responses were received (14% response rate). Respondents were from Indigenous community environment and health offices (21% of respondents), Indigenous governments (8%), federal and provincial governments (21%), and academia (45%). Risk communication was seen as the most challenging part of risk assessment (71% responded "difficult"), and nearly all respondents agreed that time (86%), cost (76%), and resource availability (86%) were "moderate" to "serious" problems. Few respondents (16%) had heard of "new approach methods" for risk assessment, and 76% of respondents (and 100% of community-based respondents) agreed on the need to develop improved risk assessment approaches. To modernize risk assessment, respondents recommended advancing cumulative risk assessment methods, improving risk communication, and promoting Indigenous leadership and Traditional Knowledge in assessment activities. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2024;00:1-16. © 2024 The Authors. Integrated Environmental Assessment and Management published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of Society of Environmental Toxicology & Chemistry (SETAC).
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine Chong
- Faculty of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Centre for Indigenous Peoples Nutrition and Environment, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Gordon M Hickey
- Faculty of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Hing Man Chan
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Niladri Basu
- Faculty of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Centre for Indigenous Peoples Nutrition and Environment, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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Freeman T, Mackean T, Sherwood J, Ziersch A, O’Donnell K, Dwyer J, Askew D, Shakespeare M, D’Angelo S, Fisher M, Browne A, Egert S, Baghbanian V, Baum F. The Benefits of Cooperative Inquiry in Health Services Research: Lessons from an Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SOCIAL DETERMINANTS OF HEALTH AND HEALTH SERVICES 2024; 54:171-182. [PMID: 38146191 PMCID: PMC10955798 DOI: 10.1177/27551938231221757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 12/27/2023]
Abstract
Health services research is underpinned by partnerships between researchers and health services. Partnership-based research is increasingly needed to deal with the uncertainty of global pandemics, climate change induced severe weather events, and other disruptions. To date there is very little data on what has happened to health services research during the COVID-19 pandemic. This paper describes the establishment of an Australian multistate Decolonising Practice research project and charts its adaptation in the face of disruptions. The project used cooperative inquiry method, where partner health services contribute as coresearchers. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, data collection needed to be immediately paused, and when restrictions started to lift, all research plans had to be renegotiated with services. Adapting the research surfaced health service, university, and staffing considerations. Our experience suggests that cooperative inquiry was invaluable in successfully navigating this uncertainty and negotiating the continuance of the research. Flexible, participatory methods such as cooperative inquiry will continue to be vital for successful health services research predicated on partnerships between researchers and health services into the future. They are also crucial for understanding local context and health services priorities and ways of working, and for decolonising Indigenous health research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toby Freeman
- Stretton Health Equity, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Tamara Mackean
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia
| | | | - Anna Ziersch
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Kim O’Donnell
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Judith Dwyer
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia
| | | | - Madison Shakespeare
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Shane D’Angelo
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Matthew Fisher
- Stretton Health Equity, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Annette Browne
- The University of British Columbia Faculty of Applied Science, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Sonya Egert
- Southern Qld Centre of Excellence in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Primary Health Care - Inala Indigenous Health, Queensland Health, Inala, Australia
| | - Vahab Baghbanian
- Central Australian Aboriginal Congress, Alice Springs, Australia
| | - Fran Baum
- Stretton Health Equity, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
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4
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Richard Z, Chabrol F, Gautier L, Zinszer K, Ridde V. Considering social inequalities in health in COVID-19 response: insights from a French case study. Health Promot Int 2023; 38:6974796. [PMID: 36617297 DOI: 10.1093/heapro/daac173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the impact of social inequalities in health (SIH). Various studies have shown significant inequalities in mortality and morbidity associated with COVID-19 and the influence of social determinants of health. The objective of this qualitative case study was to analyze the consideration of SIH in the design of two key COVID-19 prevention and control interventions in France: testing and contact tracing. Interviews were conducted with 36 key informants involved in the design of the intervention and/or the government response to the pandemic as well as relevant documents (n = 15) were reviewed. We applied data triangulation and a hybrid deductive and inductive analysis to analyze the data. Findings revealed the divergent understandings and perspectives about SIH, as well as the challenges associated with consideration for these at the beginning stages of the pandemic. Despite a shared concern for SIH between the participants, an epidemiological frame of reference dominated the design of the intervention. It resulted in a model in which consideration for SIH appeared as a complement, with a clinical goal of the intervention: breaking the chain of COVID-19 transmission. Although the COVID-19 health crisis highlighted the importance of SIH, it did not appear to be an opportunity to further their consideration in response efforts. This article provides original insights into consideration for SIH in the design of testing and contact-tracing interventions based upon a qualitative investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zoé Richard
- Université Paris Cité, IRD, INSERM, Ceped, F-75006 Paris, France
| | - Fanny Chabrol
- Université Paris Cité, IRD, INSERM, Ceped, F-75006 Paris, France
| | - Lara Gautier
- École de Santé Publique de l'Université de Montréal (ESPUM), Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Centre de Recherche en Santé Publique (CReSP), Université de Montréal et CIUSSS du Centre-Sud-de-l'île-de-Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Kate Zinszer
- École de Santé Publique de l'Université de Montréal (ESPUM), Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Centre de Recherche en Santé Publique (CReSP), Université de Montréal et CIUSSS du Centre-Sud-de-l'île-de-Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Valéry Ridde
- Université Paris Cité, IRD, INSERM, Ceped, F-75006 Paris, France
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5
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Seff I, Steven S, Deitch J, Akika V, Puls C, Okoro C, Sughrue S, Stark L. Developing ACASI questionnaires in Borno State, Nigeria during COVID-19: Using data-informed processes to address complexity, sensitivity, and functionality of family functioning and wellbeing measures. Glob Public Health 2022; 17:3611-3626. [PMID: 35770693 DOI: 10.1080/17441692.2022.2095654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Audio Computer-Assisted Self-Interview (ACASI) has become increasingly popular for collecting data on sensitive topics among populations with lower levels of literacy. However, the development of an ACASI tool is an involved process that can be further complicated when working in humanitarian contexts during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study describes the development of an ACASI tool to be used in a family-focused intervention evaluation. Participants included adolescent girls aged 10-14, adolescent boys aged 15-19, and caregivers in Borno State, Nigeria. Data to inform the tool's development were collected using cognitive interviews, ACASI demonstrations, and post-demonstration assessments with adolescent girls, adolescent boys, and caregivers, as well as a focus group discussion with enumerators. Data found high levels of acceptance for the tool and helped identify appropriate visual representations for various answer options to maximize usability. The survey was found to be too long to administer solely through ACASI; the final tool employs a combination of ACASI and computer-assisted personal interview formats. Findings highlight the importance of repeatedly piloting and testing these types of tools to ensure content and language resonate with intended users. However, the steps employed demonstrate that researchers can maintain a commitment to developing high-quality, community-grounded research tools despite challenges germane to humanitarian settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilana Seff
- Washington University in St. Louis, Abuja, Nigeria
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6
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Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on early career dementia researchers: A global online survey. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0277470. [DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0277470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction
The World Health Organization recognizes dementia as a public health priority and highlights research as an action to respond to the consequences, with early career dementia researchers (ECDRs) representing the key driving force. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, however, biomedical and psychosocial dementia research was strained worldwide. The aim of this study was to understand the impact of the pandemic on ECDRs.
Methods
In autumn 2021, the Alzheimer’s Association International Society to Advance Alzheimer’s Research and Treatment (ISTAART) Professional Interest Area to Elevate Early Career Researchers (PEERs) and University College London conducted an online survey querying ECDRs’ experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic. The survey was shared through the ISTAART network, social media, podcasts, and emailing lists. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics.
Results
Survey data from n = 321 ECDRs from 34 countries were analyzed (67.6% women; 78.8% working in academia). Overall, 77.8% of ECDRs surveyed indicated research delays, 53.9% made project adjustments, 37.9% required additional or extended funding, and 41.8% reported a negative impact on career progression. Moreover, 19.9% felt unsupported by their institutions and employers (33% felt well supported, 42.7% somewhat supported). ECDR’s conference attendance remained the same (26.5%) or increased (More: 28.6%; a lot more: 5.6%) since the start of the pandemic. Continental differences were visible, while the impact of the pandemic did not differ greatly based on ECDRs’ sociodemographic characteristics.
Conclusions
The COVID-19 pandemic had a substantial impact on ECDRs worldwide and institutions, employers, and funding bodies are urged to consider the implications and lessons-learned when working with, managing, and promoting ECDRs. Strategies related to the pandemic and general career support to improve ECDRs career progression are discussed, including social media training, digital networking, and benefits of hybrid events. Global resources specific for ECDRs are highlighted.
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Kaku SM, Sibeoni J, Basheer S, Chang JPC, Dahanayake DMA, Irarrazaval M, Lachman JM, Mapayi BM, Mejia A, Orri M, Jui-Goh T, Uddin MS, Vallance I. Global child and adolescent mental health perspectives: bringing change locally, while thinking globally. Child Adolesc Psychiatry Ment Health 2022; 16:82. [PMID: 36345001 PMCID: PMC9640779 DOI: 10.1186/s13034-022-00512-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Child and adolescent mental health (CAMH) are a global priority. Different countries across the globe face unique challenges in CAMH services that are specific to them. However, there are multiple issues that are also similar across countries. These issues have been presented in this commentary from the lens of early career CAMH professionals who are alumni of the Donald J Cohen Fellowship program of the IACAPAP. We also present recommendations that can be implemented locally, namely, how promoting mental health and development of children and adolescents can result in better awareness and interventions, the need to improve quality of care and access to care, use of technology to advance research and practices in CAMH, and how investing in research can secure and support CAMH professionals and benefit children and adolescents across the globe. As we continue to navigate significant uncertainty due to dynamic circumstances globally, bolstering collaborations by "bringing change locally, while thinking globally" are invaluable to advancing global CAMH research, clinical service provision, and advancement of the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sowmyashree Mayur Kaku
- Centre for Advanced Research and Excellence in Autism and Developmental Disorders (CAREADD), St. John's Medical College Hospital and St. John's Research Institute, Bangalore, India.
| | - Jordan Sibeoni
- Service Universitaire de Psychiatrie de l’Adolescent, Argenteuil Hopital Centre, Cedex, France ,grid.508487.60000 0004 7885 7602ECSTRRA Team, UMR-1153, Université de Paris, Inserm, Paris, France
| | - Salah Basheer
- grid.513003.4Department of Psychiatry, Iqraa International Hospital and Research Centre, Kozhikode, Kerala India
| | - Jane Pei-Chen Chang
- grid.411508.90000 0004 0572 9415Child Psychiatry Division, Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | | | - Matias Irarrazaval
- Millenium Institute for Research in Depression and Personality, Santiago, Chile
| | - Jamie M Lachman
- grid.4991.50000 0004 1936 8948Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Boladale Moyosore Mapayi
- grid.10824.3f0000 0001 2183 9444Mental health, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile Ife, Osun State Nigeria
| | - Anilena Mejia
- grid.5379.80000000121662407Division of Psychology of Mental Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Massimiliano Orri
- grid.412078.80000 0001 2353 5268Department of Psychiatry, McGill Group for Suicide Studies, Douglas Mental Health University Institute, McGill University, Montreal, QC Canada
| | - Tze Jui-Goh
- grid.414752.10000 0004 0469 9592Department of Developmental Psychiatry, Institute of Mental Health, Buangkok Green, Singapore
| | - Md Saleh Uddin
- grid.440425.30000 0004 1798 0746Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Monash University (Malaysia campus), Bandar Sunway, Malaysia
| | - Inge Vallance
- grid.4991.50000 0004 1936 8948Department of Social Policy and Intervention, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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Fischer F, Wicherski J, Tobollik M, McCall T. Experiences Shared by the (Future) Public Health Workforce during the COVD-19 Pandemic in Germany: Results of a Survey on Workload, Work Content, and Related Challenges among Students and Young Professionals. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:11444. [PMID: 36141717 PMCID: PMC9517565 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191811444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2022] [Revised: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/09/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Although previous studies have focused on the adverse effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on various professional groups (particularly in the health and nursing care sector), this study aims to close a research gap by assessing perspectives of students and young professionals in epidemiology and public health in Germany in terms of shifts in workload, work content, and related challenges caused by the pandemic. We conducted a cross-sectional survey between mid-February and mid-March 2022. Quantitative data were analyzed via standardized mean differences. Qualitative data based on answers to open-ended questions were analyzed via a qualitative content analysis. Overall, 172 individuals participated in this survey. Results indicate that students felt burdened the most by lack of exchange with other students and lecturers. Study participants employed in public health experienced changes in their employment because they had changes in their work content- and administration, which was accompanied by a high burden due to the workload. Multiple demands that can have an impact on both acquired skills and mental health during the professional qualification phase were mentioned by the participants. Therefore, more in-depth analyses are needed to investigate the impact the pandemic will have on the (future) public health workforce in the long run.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florian Fischer
- Institute of Public Health, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
- Bavarian Research Center for Digital Health and Social Care, Kempten University of Applied Sciences, 87437 Kempten, Germany
| | - Julia Wicherski
- Division 5 Research, Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices, 53175 Bonn, Germany
| | - Myriam Tobollik
- Section II 1.5 Environmental Medicine and Health Effects Assessment, German Environment Agency, 14193 Berlin, Germany
| | - Timothy McCall
- Medical School OWL, Bielefeld University, 33615 Bielefeld, Germany
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Chatzea VE, Mechili EA, Melidoniotis E, Petrougaki E, Nikiforidis G, Argyriadis A, Sifaki-Pistolla D. Recommendations for young researchers on how to better advance their scientific career: A systematic review. POPULATION MEDICINE 2022. [DOI: 10.18332/popmed/152571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
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10
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Teggart K, Silva A, Powell T, Lemonde M, Maheu C, Mayo S. Reflection on moving research forward during COVID-19: Strategies to continue, conclude and commence. Can Oncol Nurs J 2022; 32:322-324. [PMID: 35582258 PMCID: PMC9040772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic required oncology nursing researchers to immediately and drastically adjust their research activities. During the 33rd Annual CANO/ ACIO Conference Roundtable Workshop October 2021 - Moving Research Forward During COVID-19, oncology nurses gathered to share and discuss strategies they will continue, conclude, and commence when leading research during and beyond the pandemic. Workshop participants identified the use of low technology, such as telephone and virtual calls without video, as a valuable data collection strategy they will continue for individual interviews. In contrast, attendees expressed their desire to stop conducting virtual focus groups when public health measures are lifted. Oncology nurses indicated an interest in beginning to use a hybrid in-person/virtual data collection approach and incorporate some technological features, such as QR codes, for recruiting participants. Workshop attendees also reflected on the impact of COVID-19 on oncology nursing practice and education, highlighting future research priorities and considerations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Tracy Powell
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Mount Royal University
| | | | | | - Samantha Mayo
- Lawrence S. Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing, University of Toronto, and Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network
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11
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Struck JP, Schnoor M, Schulze A, Hupe MC, Ozimek T, Oppolzer IA, Schnabel MJ, Burger M, Darr C, Gruenwald V, Hadaschik B, Weinke M, Kuebler H, Klockenbusch JC, Grabbert MT, Gratzke C, Kramer MW, Katalinic A, Merseburger AS. Impact of COVID-19 crisis on medical care of patients with metastasized uro-oncologic disease under systemic cancer therapy: a multicenter study in German university hospitals. World J Urol 2021; 40:409-418. [PMID: 34850270 PMCID: PMC8631559 DOI: 10.1007/s00345-021-03868-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To date, over 4.2 million Germans and over 235 million people worldwide have been infected with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Uro-oncology (UO) patients are particularly vulnerable but in urgent need of life-saving systemic treatments. Our multicentric study examined the impact of the COVID-19 crisis on the medical care of UO patients in German university hospitals receiving ongoing systemic anti-cancer treatment and to detect the delay of medical care, defined as deferred medical treatment or deviation of the pre-defined follow-up assessment. Methods Data of 162 UO patients with metastatic disease undergoing systemic cancer treatment at five university hospitals in Germany were included in our analyses. The focus of interest was any delay or change in treatment between February 2020 and May 2020 (first wave of the COVID-19 crisis in Germany). Statistical analysis of contingency tables were performed using Pearson’s chi-squared and Fisher’s exact tests, respectively. Effect size was determined using Cramér’s V (V). Results Twenty-four of the 162 patients (14.8%) experienced a delay in systemic treatment of more than 2 weeks. Most of these received immuno-oncologic (IO) treatments (13/24, 54.2%, p = 0.746). Blood tests were delayed or canceled significantly more often in IO patients but with a small effect size (21.1%, p = 0.042, V = 0.230). Treatment of patients with renal cell carcinoma (12/73, 16.4%) and urothelial carcinoma (7/32, 21.9%) was affected the most. Conclusions Our data show that the COVID-19 pandemic impacted the medical care of UO patients, but deferment remained modest. There was a tendency towards delays in IO and ADT treatments in particular.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julian P. Struck
- Department of Urology, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Luebeck, Ratzeburger Allee 160, 23538 Luebeck, Germany
| | - Maike Schnoor
- Department of Social Medicine and Epidemiology and Department of Cancer Epidemiology, University of Luebeck, Ratzeburger Allee 160, 23562 Luebeck, Germany
| | - Andrea Schulze
- Department of Urology, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Luebeck, Ratzeburger Allee 160, 23538 Luebeck, Germany
| | - Marie C. Hupe
- Department of Urology, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Luebeck, Ratzeburger Allee 160, 23538 Luebeck, Germany
| | - Tomasz Ozimek
- Department of Urology, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Luebeck, Ratzeburger Allee 160, 23538 Luebeck, Germany
| | - Immanuel A. Oppolzer
- Department of Urology, University Hospital of Regensburg, Landshuter Straße 65, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Marco J. Schnabel
- Department of Urology, University Hospital of Regensburg, Landshuter Straße 65, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Maximilian Burger
- Department of Urology, University Hospital of Regensburg, Landshuter Straße 65, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Christopher Darr
- Department of Urology, Pediatric Urology and Uro-Oncology, University Hospital of Essen, Hufelandstraße 55, 45147 Essen, Germany
| | - Viktor Gruenwald
- Department of Urology, Pediatric Urology and Uro-Oncology, University Hospital of Essen, Hufelandstraße 55, 45147 Essen, Germany
| | - Boris Hadaschik
- Department of Urology, Pediatric Urology and Uro-Oncology, University Hospital of Essen, Hufelandstraße 55, 45147 Essen, Germany
| | - Maximilian Weinke
- Department of Urology and Pediatric Urology, University Hospital of Wuerzburg, Oberduerrbacher Straße 6, 97080 Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Hubert Kuebler
- Department of Urology and Pediatric Urology, University Hospital of Wuerzburg, Oberduerrbacher Straße 6, 97080 Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Jonas C. Klockenbusch
- Department of Urology, University Hospital of Freiburg, Hugstetterstraße 55, 79106 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Markus T. Grabbert
- Department of Urology, University Hospital of Freiburg, Hugstetterstraße 55, 79106 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Christian Gratzke
- Department of Urology, University Hospital of Freiburg, Hugstetterstraße 55, 79106 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Mario W. Kramer
- Department of Urology, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Luebeck, Ratzeburger Allee 160, 23538 Luebeck, Germany
| | - Alexander Katalinic
- Department of Social Medicine and Epidemiology and Department of Cancer Epidemiology, University of Luebeck, Ratzeburger Allee 160, 23562 Luebeck, Germany
| | - Axel S. Merseburger
- Department of Urology, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Luebeck, Ratzeburger Allee 160, 23538 Luebeck, Germany
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Maguire R, Hynes S, Seebacher B, Block VJ, Zackowski KM, Jonsdottir J, Finlayson M, Plummer P, Freeman J, Giesser B, von Geldern G, Ploughman M. Research interrupted: The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on multiple sclerosis research in the field of rehabilitation and quality of life. Mult Scler J Exp Transl Clin 2021; 7:20552173211038030. [PMID: 34471543 PMCID: PMC8404642 DOI: 10.1177/20552173211038030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The COVID-19 pandemic has likely had a negative impact on rehabilitation and quality of life (QoL) research in multiple sclerosis (MS). Method We explored perceived barriers to research among 87 researchers, representing 18 countries, both prior to and since COVID-19. Results A Wilcoxon signed-rank test found that significantly more researchers reported experiencing barriers to research since the onset of the pandemic compared to pre-COVID-19 (p < .001), with 78% of respondents reporting at least some barriers since COVID-19. The most commonly-cited barriers related to participant access (n = 38) and interruptions/delays to projects (n = 19). Although no gender differences were found in the number of barriers reported, female respondents were more likely to cite time or competing demands as barriers to research. Females were also more likely to perceive being negatively impacted by the pandemic compared to other genders (p = .007). Conclusions Implications for the future landscape of rehabilitation research in MS are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Maguire
- Department of Psychology, Maynooth University, County Kildare, Ireland
| | - Sinead Hynes
- School of Health Sciences, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - Barbara Seebacher
- Clinical Department of Neurology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Valerie J Block
- Department of Neurology, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Kathy M Zackowski
- Patient Management Care and Rehabilitation Research, National Multiple Sclerosis Society, New York, USA
| | | | - Marcia Finlayson
- School of Rehabilitation Therapy, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Prue Plummer
- Department of Physical Therapy, MGH Institute of Health Professions, MGH Institute of Health Professions, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jennifer Freeman
- School of Health Professions, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, UK
| | - Barbara Giesser
- Staff Physician, Pacific Neuroscience Institute, Santa Monica, CA, USA
| | | | - Michelle Ploughman
- Faculty of Medicine, Memorial University of Newfoundland, Labrador, Canada
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13
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Pappa K, Flegal KE, Baylan S, Evans JJ. Working memory training: Taking a step back to retool and create a bridge between clinical and neuroimaging research methods. APPLIED NEUROPSYCHOLOGY-ADULT 2021; 29:1669-1680. [PMID: 33794120 DOI: 10.1080/23279095.2021.1904243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Improvements in patient outcomes and mortality after brain injury alongside increasing ageing population have resulted in an increasing need to develop cognitive interventions for individuals experiencing changes in their cognitive function. One topic of increasing research interest is whether cognitive functions such as attention, memory and executive functioning can be improved through the use of working memory training interventions. Both clinical and neuroimaging researchers are working to evidence this, but their efforts rarely come together. We discuss here several issues that may be hindering progress in this area, including the tools researchers utilize to measure cognition, the choice between employing active or passive control groups, the focus on transfer effects at the expense of well-characterized training effects, and the overall lack of neuroimaging studies in individuals with neurological disorders. We argue that the only way to advance the field is to build bridges between the disciplines of clinical neuropsychology and cognitive neuroscience. We suggest a multi-level framework to validate the efficacy of working memory interventions and other forms of cognitive training that combine both clinical and neuroimaging approaches. We conclude that in order to move forward we need to form multidisciplinary teams, employ interdisciplinary methods, brain imaging quality rating tools and build national and international collaborations based on open science principles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katerina Pappa
- Institute of Health and Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Kristin E Flegal
- Institute of Neuroscience and Psychology, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Satu Baylan
- Institute of Health and Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Jonathan J Evans
- Institute of Health and Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
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